Thorney Mire Woodland Retreat

• Sleeps: 2 per unit
• Bedrooms: 1 per unit
• Bathrooms: 1 per unit
• Minimum stay: 2-3 nights

There’s a soothing sense of life slowing down, and the clock turning gently back, as you arrive at Thorney Mire Woodland Retreat.

Set within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the retreat comprises three mesmerising acres of ancient, wildlife-steeped woodland that still looks just as it might have done centuries ago.

In the midst of the woodland, where roe deer forage and red squirrels play in the whispering trees, are three enchanting havens. Complete with full self-contained facilities, each sleeps two guests in cosy comfort, promising to help you relax and unwind in the most natural way possible.

The luxurious, eco-friendly Shepherd’s Hut is perfect for daydreamers and creative spirits, with stirring views that lead across Widdale Beck to the fells beyond.

Huge windows mean you can sit back and watch daily visits to the bird and squirrel feeders, and there’s a beautiful outdoor deck with a barbecue and chimenea for sunset suppers and dark-sky stargazing.

The Cabin, meanwhile, has been lovingly hand-built with materials reclaimed from a Chester mill. Exquisitely designed, there’s a stargazing window above the downy kingsize bed, and not one but two romantic wood-burning stoves; inside and out on the covered, furnished decking (there’s toasty central heating inside, too).

Prefer something a little more traditional? Thorney Mire Cottage is a two-storey barn conversion that also welcomes two small, well-behaved dogs… so nobody has to stay behind at home.

At a glance

• Three cosy havens-for-two, peacefully secluded amongst three acres of ancient woodland in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, just outside Appersett.
• Accommodation comprises a shepherd’s hut, a hand-built cabin, and a cottage converted from a barn, each with full self-contained facilities and ample outdoor space.
• Thorney Mire Cottage also accepts two small, well-behaved dogs at no additional charge.
• Sit back and watch birds and red squirrels visiting the feeders, or roe deer grazing in the woodland. There are plenty of footpaths to explore in the surrounding area.
• The bustling market town of Hawes – famous for Wensleydale cheese-making! – is a 25-minute walk away.

Features

• Adults Only
• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly

Accommodation Options

More information

A wonderfully homely space, there’s underfloor heating in the hallway and bathrooms, while a wood-burning stove is the perfect accompaniment to evenings spent snuggled in front of the Smart TV. On sunny days, simply head through French doors to the charming patio – perfect for morning coffee, lazy lunches, and freshly-mixed sundowners alike.

Whichever hideaway you choose, and whatever the time of year you arrive, there will be plenty of unique woodland delights in store. Here you can wander through sweet-scented spring flowers in May, rich-hued autumn leaves in October…

The woodland is a beautiful place to escape for a winter break, there’s nothing quite like lighting the stove on a frosty day, before cradling a steaming mug of hot chocolate! You’ll also find those cheeky red squirrels much easier to spot in the leafless trees.

If you’re in the mood for a stroll, there’s plenty of woodland footpaths to explore. You could also take a 25-minute walk into the market town of Hawes, where you’ll find plenty of ways to spend your time – from taking tea and visiting the Wensleydale Creamery (where you can taste delicious cheese and have your photo taken with Wallace and Gromit!) to holing yourselves up in a cosy country pub until sunset-time.

Things to note

Woodland paths are not lit at night, due to the National Parks’ Darker Skies policy. Torches are provided for guests staying at the Shepherd’s Hut and Cabin.