Swinton Bivouac, Nr Masham, North Yorkshire, England - Explore & Book
"A 10-minute drive from the sleepy market town of Masham in the 20,000-acre Swinton Park Estate, overlooking rolling meadows dotted with sheep and criss-crossed by dry stone walls, stands Swinton Bivouac. Approached up a rough track, it centres on a restored farmhouse accommodating a reception area and café, while in the surrounding pastures and woodland you’ll find an unconventional choice of overnight lodgings: 7 canvas yurts sleeping 2-4 and 6 tastefully furnished timber lodges for up to 6. The mood is informal and relaxed, appealing to couples and families in search of an authentic yet comfortable back-to-nature adventure. Great attention to detail is paid in everything from the rustic décor to the activities on offer. Swinton Bivouac also hosts groups (there’s a larger Loft sleeping 10) and organises woodland weddings at the Druid’s Temple, a 200-year-old folly set among the pines nearby. There’s plenty to do: hiking, cycling, visiting castles and waterfalls, and tasting famous Dales produce such as Wensleydale cheese and Black Sheep beer. And you don’t have to go far - trails lead out from the site, and there's a homely café for those who don’t want to self-cater, serving delicious food prepared from local ingredients. Highs A peaceful, rural location with sweeping views across the valley and moorland - restful for adults and liberating for kids Ideal for families, with a play area and organised activities (crafts, nature trails). Yurts have a double bed and 2 singles; lodges have 2 doubles and 2 singles Generous breakfasts, lunches and dinners in the cosy café, plus local beer; takeaway meals and picnics are available with 24 hours’ notice Friendly and welcoming staff, who are always ready to chat but never intrusive Plenty of outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside, with the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park on the doorstep Lows Don’t expect luxury: the yurts and lodges have no electricity, and the yurts share a communal shower block (lodges have their own bathrooms and private hot tubs) It’s remote, and city slickers might feel a little marooned - no nightlife, no telly, no in-room WiFi, just fire pits and star-gazing after dark You’ll need to be reasonably nimble to get in and out of the beds in the lodges, arranged over 3 levels and reached by a steep ladder; you might also risk bumping your head in the top and bottom levels Full pre-payment and a security deposit is required The yurts are closed October to mid-March annually" - Jane Foster
