Julie Smith
28 April 2023
If you fancy staying somewhere a little bit different on your next UK getaway, there are lots of extra special Yorkshire holiday cottages to choose from.
From romantic retreats that date back to Tudor times to beautifully converted chapels with room for the whole family, we have compiled some of the most unique holiday cottages in lovely Yorkshire locations.
Take a look at this handpicked collection of cottages and start planning your next memorable staycation to the gorgeous Yorkshire Dales, Moors, Coast or Wolds.
Bolton Percy Gatehouse
This romantic retreat is hidden from view by large oak gates, and walking through the front door is like stepping into your very own period drama. The glorious Grade II-listed medieval gatehouse is full of character with exposed beams, vaulted ceilings and original Tudor roses.
Why we love it:
- The unique building is nestled between a historic pub and churchyard in the sleepy village of Bolton Percy near York
- It has remained completely intact since the 15th century when it formed part of the medieval defences of the village
- This beautifully restored period property features a sumptuous four-poster bed and a pretty courtyard garden for the ultimate romantic getaway
The Boat House
If you fancy being on the water for your next Yorkshire getaway, The Boat House could be just the property for you. This unique bolthole for two is located on its own floating jetty on a peaceful lake in a private countryside estate. You can watch the resident ducks and geese glide by as you look out over the water from the decked verandas on each side of the property.
Why we love it:
- Spend time exploring the wildlife-rich private estate then take a short walk to the nearby North Yorkshire village of Gilling West where you’ll find a couple of good pubs to choose from
- When evening starts to fall, the path to your romantic hideaway is prettily lit by twinkling fairy lights
- You’re just a short drive from the market town of Richmond where there’s a cobbled market square, a choice of shops and eateries, and a dramatic Norman castle
Earl Grey
This bijou bolthole is part of a Palladian-style model farm that was built by a former Earl of the estate so that his Italian wife would feel at home. This lovely property looks like it has come straight from the pages of a romantic novel with a gorgeous parterre garden to explore during an idyllic country escape.
Why we love it:
- The romantic bedroom at Earl Grey includes a feature round window where you can enjoy views across to the nearby castle and a Juliet balcony where you can look out over the grounds
- Outside the property is a wood-fired hot tub where you can soak under the stars and a private patio with garden furniture where you can enjoy long lazy lunches
- The remote Wensleydale location is perfect for peace, quiet and scenic walks with the market town of Bedale just 5 miles away
The Old Waiting Room
This former station waiting room on the heritage Wensleydale Railway has been beautifully renovated into a stylish 5-star retreat with two luxurious bedrooms and two bathrooms to go with them, plus an open-plan living area that’s warmed by a traditional open fire.
Why we love it:
- A spacious garden comes with a choice of seating areas to sit and relax in and views out to the heritage railway where you can see the occasional steam train whistle past
- The small village of Wensley with pubs, candle makers and a hidden waterfall is a scenic walk away, with the popular market town of Leyburn also within easy reach
- The main bathroom at the property comes with a roll-top bath for long, luxurious soaks after exploring the surrounding Wensleydale countryside
Dugdales Barn
Dating back to the 19th century, this characterful stone cottage was once the home to Dugdales Architectural Engineers and the original business sign now hangs proudly in the dramatic double-height space above the kitchen. At the heart of the house is a cosy living room with chunky wooden beams and a warming wood burner.
Why we love it:
- This lovely property is tucked away behind the market square in the vibrant town of Settle, at the western edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park
- Both bedrooms come with en-suite bathrooms and the master has a statement floor-to-ceiling arched window that leads directly to a courtyard patio
- There’s lockable bike storage next to the property if you fancy exploring Yorkshire Dales countryside on two wheels
The Old School House
This Grade II-listed former schoolhouse is located high above pretty Robin Hood’s Bay in the peaceful village of Fylingthorpe where you can enjoy wonderful views of the Yorkshire Coast. The Old School House is characterful inside and out, with period features that include original fireplaces, flagstone flooring, mullion windows and a spirelet.
Why we love it:
- It’s less than a mile to Robin Hood’s Bay where you can wander down alleys filled with shops, pubs and traditional fishing cottages on your way to the beach
- An outside utility room with a shower at this dog-friendly property is perfect for cleaning sandy toes and paws after fun-filled days at the beach
- Both the living room and separate dining room come with wood burners to keep you cosy and warm during family meals and relaxing evenings together
Castle & Cobbles
This Grade II-listed stone cottage is located down a cobbled Georgian promenade in a historic part of Richmond that’s next to the town’s famous castle. The unique location of Castle & Cobbles means the pretty garden at the property rises up to the walls of Richmond Castle and you can look out over the Norman fortress from one of the upstairs bedrooms.
Why we love it:
- Elegant interiors include quarry tiles, stylish soft furnishings and a cosy wood burner
- The lovely cottage garden is split over several tiers with steps up to a hidden spot for summer BBQs, lawned seating areas and those historic castle walls
- There’s much to see and do around Richmond including taking a riverside walk to nearby Easby Abbey and seeing a play at the Georgian Theatre Royal, which is Britain’s most complete Georgian playhouse
The Old Courthouse
This historic 19th-century building was the courthouse in Pateley Bridge until 1995 and still forms part of a heritage trail around this picturesque Nidderdale town. It’s been transformed into a gorgeous holiday cottage for six that combines original period details with colourful contemporary design.
Why we love it:
- It's just a short stroll away from Pateley Bridge’s bustling high street where you’ll find lots of pubs, independent shops, tearooms and galleries
- The period building features double-height vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, Victorian tiles and a beautiful bay window that gives lots of light to a lounge that was once the judges’ robing room
- You’re surrounded by stunning Nidderdale countryside in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with nearby walks and attractions including Brimham Rocks and Gouthwaite Reservoir
Chapel of Art
Located in the heart of Bronte Country just 1.5 miles from Haworth, this former chapel celebrates the world of art by paying homage to some of the best-loved artists from history. The spacious holiday home sleeps up to ten guests and two dogs so it’s the perfect place to gather with family and friends, especially as it comes with a hot tub, sauna and cinema room.
Why we love it:
- The Bronte Way trail is one of a number of walking routes that can be easily accessed from the Chapel of Art to help you explore the dramatic scenery in this beautiful part of the world
- Budding artists can get inspiration to paint the surrounding landscapes by staying in rooms dedicated to Vincent Van Gogh, Henry Matisse, David Hockney, Gustav Klimt and Frida Kahlo
- The property comes with an outdoor seating area, BBQ, hot tub and fire pit so you can make the most of the stunning views from this beautiful location
Plan your gorgeous Yorkshire getaway
If these unique Yorkshire properties have inspired you to pay a visit to ‘God’s Own Country’, you’ll find lots more 5-star holiday cottages in lovely locations like Whitby, Pickering, Masham, Grassington and Hawes.
Browse our full collection of luxury Yorkshire cottages to find your perfect base.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.