Yorkshire


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lowdown">THE LOWDOWN</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-9.jpg" alt="Hollins Farm Yorkshire" class="wp-image-1722" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-9.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-9-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-9-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Step off the hamster wheel and enjoy pod life at Hollins Farm in the picture-postcard village of Arkendale – on the doorstep of the beautiful market town of Knaresborough, with its dramatic viaduct over the River Nidd.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-8.jpg" alt="Hollins Farm Yorkshire " class="wp-image-1721" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-8.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-8-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-8-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-8-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>The farm has two lodges, sitting pretty in a field with uninterrupted views of the Yorkshire Dales and Kilburn White Horse, yet conveniently close to the A1. Excellent directions are given to find the farm track leading to the lodges. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-7.jpg" alt="Hollins Farm Yorkshire" class="wp-image-1720" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-7.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-7-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-7-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-7-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Owners Rachael and Richard were there to greet us and help load our trolley with luggage. It&#8217;s a good job as we were totally distracted by a hare lolloping away as we arrived and deer grazing nearby.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-vibe">THE VIBE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire.jpg" alt="Hollins Farm Yorkshire" class="wp-image-1724" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>First impression of our curvaceous lodge Dexter with its wavy roof and round windows was that it was like a quirky Hobbit home. The newly built, modern pods are safe havens, each with enclosed gardens – perfect to keep children and pets from roaming. Step through the horseshoe-shaped glass doorway and you&#8217;re wowed by the spacious and spotless interior.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-2.jpg" alt="Hollins Farm Yorkshire " class="wp-image-1715" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-2.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-2-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>The open-plan lounge/ kitchen diner/ kids’ bunk room was well thought out and the fitted units incorporated all mod cons such as a dishwasher, large fridge freezer, electric oven, hob, grill and microwave, as well as a kettle, toaster and pod coffee maker. The breakfast bar sat four and the sofa (which could also be made into a bed to accommodate a second couple or extra child) was comfortable with alcoves behind for books or mugs.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Untitled-design-87.jpg" alt="Hollins farm Lodges Yorkshire hot tub" class="wp-image-1725" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Untitled-design-87.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Untitled-design-87-300x300.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Untitled-design-87-150x150.jpg 150w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Untitled-design-87-768x768.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Untitled-design-87-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>The pièce de resistance? The hot tub which can be booked as an optional extra (and why would you not)? It&#8217;s the only (very welcome) difference between Dexter, the lodge we were in, and Megan next door. Set under a pergola that can be closed over on a rainy day or open to see the stars, screening keeps it very private and heavenly to soak in on a chilly afternoon with a plastic glass of fizz or beer!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pillow-talk">PILLOW TALK</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-10.jpg" alt="Hollins Farm Yorkshire" class="wp-image-1723" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-10.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-10-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-10-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-10-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>The bedroom with its large porthole window and double bed boasted a bit of space-saving design genius: built-in wardrobe, handy, fold-down hooks, bedside tables with lamps and even a small Smart TV neatly fitted into an alcove. Thoughtful and appreciated. The sheep cushions were a cute nod to the farm&#8217;s woolly residents. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-5.jpg" alt="Bunk Beds Hollins Farm Lodges Yorkshire" class="wp-image-1718" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-5.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-5-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/Hollins-Farm-Yorkshire-5-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>The bunks were neatly cocooned between the lounge and the kitchen, fully enclosed, so that they remained discreet and with curtains to keep out the light. The bathroom had a walk-in shower and flushing loo, (not like my childhood camping days) as well as a heated towel rail – particularly useful for drying swimsuits after the hot tub.</p>



<p>While the large windows deliver the view of dreams, there&#8217;s also a danger of over exposure (especially if you waft about in your undies). Rachael showed us how to hang a circular bung over the window for privacy – but to be honest, I&#8217;m not sure the wildlife would be fazed by a bit of flesh being flashed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-out-amp-about">OUT &amp; ABOUT</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1125" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Knaresborough.jpg" alt="Knaresborough viaduct and River Nidd" class="wp-image-1693" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Knaresborough.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Knaresborough-300x225.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Knaresborough-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Knaresborough-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>First stop, Knaresborough. I couldn’t believe my husband, a born-and-bred Yorkshireman, had never visited before as it’s one of the prettiest locations in God’s Own County. In summertime, children love being rowed around the river (I’ve fallen for that one before – quite the workout) and Mother Shipton’s Cave with its Petrifying Well (as in turning teddies to stone rather than really scary) is a must-see.</p>



<p>The town square and surrounding warren of medieval streets were also quaint with tearooms, bakeries, delis, craft shops and indies, though sadly some were still closed for the festive season. We wandered into the Next Door café and wine bar for a tasty lunch – Simon ordered a pulled pork wrap with gherkins which I thought was tasty though he had food envy over my more generous-sized chicken quesadilla (I did give him some)! I was tempted to order a Mulled Wine or bargain Irish Coffee (only £5.50!) from their ‘Naughty List’ menu but resisted with a cappuccino instead before we headed down to the river for a dog walk along the scenic banks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scoff-amp-quaff">SCOFF &amp; QUAFF</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1280" height="853" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/64269523.jpg" alt="Blue Bell Inn Arkendale Yorkshire" class="wp-image-1726" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/64269523.jpg 1280w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/64269523-300x200.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/64269523-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/64269523-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" /></figure>



<p>The lodges are self-catering, but a welcome pack provides essentials like tea, coffee, biscuits and chocolate when you arrive, as well as fresh local eggs and jams for brekkie. UHT milk is supplied for hot drinks but be sure to bring some fresh milk, a loaf and any alcoholic beverages or soft drinks, along with ingredients for meals you want to cook, although there are shops and supermarkets nearby.</p>



<p>We booked dinner at the local, dog-friendly <a href="https://thebluebellatarkendale.co.uk/">Blue Bell</a> pub in the heart of the village. It&#8217;s a 20 minute walk on bridleways with a map and torch (supplied), but as it was freezing, we hopped in the car. The Blue Bell is a buzzy pub with large wooden tables, colourful cushions, beams, a log fire and the biggest decorative bottle of Champagne I’d ever clapped eyes on (definitely a good start).</p>



<p>The drinks were reasonably priced with an extensive wine list and the food was superb too – I had venison with celeriac and red wine jus; Simon a homemade chicken and sage pie with mash and veg; while we shared a delicious treacle tart and clotted cream ice cream – even though I had originally said I was too full!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snowtime">SNOWTIME</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1125" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Megan-in-the-snow-BMcG.jpg" alt="Hollins Farm Megan in snow" class="wp-image-1695" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Megan-in-the-snow-BMcG.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Megan-in-the-snow-BMcG-300x225.jpg 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Megan-in-the-snow-BMcG-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1125-Megan-in-the-snow-BMcG-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>We had such a comfortable, relaxed evening, just chatting and binge watching a new drama on TV (there is also good Wi-Fi). It started to snow heavily and by morning there were four inches of powder. We did wonder if we’d manage to drive home (the track is around half a mile long), but Rachael messaged to say her Dad was on hand to tow us out if needs be (luckily, not required)! We certainly couldn’t fault the personal service and as I said, it proves glamping is not just for summer. There is something very special and dare I say romantic about being cocooned in a cosy lodge with a hot tub on tap and snowflakes falling gently and silently all around.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accessibility">ACCESSIBILITY</h2>



<p>As there are two steps onto the decking up to the front door, the lodges are not wheelchair friendly, although they are on one level. There is a gentle walk from the car park, but when dark, a light comes on halfway along.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kid-friendly">KID FRIENDLY?</h2>



<p>Most definitely and the lodges can sleep up to a family of four or even five in the bunks and sofa bed. I can imagine children will love the adventure of staying in such unusual accommodation and although there is no play park yet (one is planned in the near future), there are goalposts and plenty of safe, grassy space to run around. Bring bikes to explore the bridleways, while there are oodles of family-friendly activities in nearby Knaresborough, Harrogate or York.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-friendly">DOG-FRIENDLY?</h2>



<p>Dogs are well catered for with bowls, a towel and poo bags, although we brought Seth&#8217;s own bed, and it was safe to let him out in the enclosed garden. A dog is charged £20 extra per stay.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-muddy-verdict">THE MUDDY VERDICT</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1065" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1065-cropped-2-outdoor-table-1024-x-1024-7.png" alt="Hollins Farm outdoor table" class="wp-image-1690" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1065-cropped-2-outdoor-table-1024-x-1024-7.png 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1065-cropped-2-outdoor-table-1024-x-1024-7-300x213.png 300w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1065-cropped-2-outdoor-table-1024-x-1024-7-1024x727.png 1024w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/yorkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2025/01/1500-x-1065-cropped-2-outdoor-table-1024-x-1024-7-768x545.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>For anyone who considers winter is not the time to go glamping, think again. The snow made the experience even more unique in such a well-equipped, centrally heated luxury lodge with all mod cons and a steamy hot tub, bubbling and ready to wallow in whenever you fancy! We especially loved the round windows, the rural feel, breath-taking views and the dark skies at night when you can also enjoy the stars or perhaps the Northern Lights (when it’s not snowing)!</p>



<p><strong>Good for:</strong> Romantic getaways, family adventures or even those on business looking for a home from home. Think curling up with a good book after a bracing walk or seeing your kids’ faces lighting up at the thought of living like Hobbits!</p>



<p><strong>Not for: </strong>Anyone with mobility issues or those who prefer the city life with bars and nightclubs (though Harrogate is within taxi distance and there is a train station in Knaresborough).</p>



<p><strong>The damage: </strong>Lodges cost around £150 per night (depending on low or peak season) for a minimum two-night stay, while there is a 20% discount until March 2025. The hot tub is charged at £150 for the first 2 nights and then £40 per night after that.</p>



<p><strong><em><a href="https://hollinsfarmholidays.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hollins Farm Holidays</a>, Marton Lane, Arkendale, HG5 0QY. Tel 07885 589758.</em></strong></p>



<p><em>Words: Bridget McGrouther</em></p>


Review: Hollins Farm Lodge Holidays, Arkendale, N Yorks

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