10 Reasons to Stay with Sunnydale Holidays Near Knaresborough North Yorkshire
Knaresborough North Yorkshire, a charming market town, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located in the picturesque Nidd Valley, It is steeped in history and has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the 12th century. From its stunning castle ruins to its quaint cobbled streets, Knaresborough truly captures the essence of Yorkshire.
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One of the town’s most notable landmarks is Knaresborough Castle, which sits majestically atop a cliff overlooking the river Nidd. The castle’s ruins offer a glimpse into the town’s fascinating past, which spans over 900 years. Visitors can explore the castle’s underground dungeon, climb the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, or stroll around the castle grounds and enjoy the tranquil setting.
Knaresborough is also home to the famous Mother Shipton’s Cave, a unique geological feature that has attracted visitors for over 400 years. Legend has it that Mother Shipton, a famous prophetess who lived in the 16th century, was born in the cave. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave, learn about its fascinating history, and explore the surrounding parkland and petrifying well. With so much to see and do, Knaresborough is a town that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
So, where are you staying if you visit Knaresborough North Yorkshire? There are tons of options. However, a hidden oasis is only eight minutes or three miles away!
Let me introduce you to Sunnydale Holidays. This working farm stay, loaded with vintage tractors and steam engines, offers some of the most incredibly unusual accommodations and is genuinely one of a kind!
About Sunnydale Holidays, Ferrensby
Sunnydale Holidays is run by two excellent hosts, Gillian and David. This dynamic duo lives on a farm in Ferrensby and keeps cattle. They love vintage machinery, vehicles, and bygones and exhibit at the local tractor fest at Newby Hall. I also exhibit at various local steam rallies. In addition, David’s into RVing and is itching to go off on a tour of England. They are an exciting couple who’ve mastered the art of excellent accommodations so much that their hospitality skills rival those of many large brands.
Looking from the outside, you will see a traditional British farm. Once on-site, this is a rural playground for couples, families, or even the more prominent groups wanting to celebrate a special event.
Why I Choose Sunnydale Holidays, Ferrensby
Everyone knows I am obsessed with wood-burning hot tubs and chimneys. These two amenities have become a must for properties I rent.
I’m also partial to shepherds’ huts. So, I’ll be in when I find shepherds’ huts that have both. shepherd’sd in tons of them all over the UnitI’veingdom. Some are amazing, some are average, and some are decrepit. Sunnydale Holidays are fantastic; they are my second all-time favorite Exhall Retreats. And they don’t get my number one vote because the huts don’t are a tad more luxurious. This said the amenities at Sunnydale Holidays blew away all my other stays, and they got the number one spot for this.
Spending a few nights in a shepherd’s hut is one of my favorite ways to wind down.
So here are 10 Plus Reasons to Stay with Sunnydale Holidays Near Knaresborough North Yorkshire
The All in Pricing
If you are new to glamping or renting places with wood-burning hot tubs, you may be surprised that most charge for wood, and almost all charge to pre-light the hot tub for you.
Not at Sunnydale Holidays! Upon arrival, the hot tub is heated, the fireplace is a glow, and you have access to free unlimited wood to burn. You’ll save a fortune from this alone.
David is a magician. Unbeknownst to you, he will check your hot tub to ensure it’s kept firing. And, no, it’s not creepy. He doesn’t show up while you are in the hot tub. Instead, as you sleep or relax in your accommodations, he will secretly stock up on wood and replenish the hot tub. You won’t even know he’s been until you realize you won’t re-stock!
The Amenities
Hands down, Sunnydale Holidays offers the most amenities of the glamping places I’ve stayed at throughout the world. And trust me, I’ve stayed in tons, and few can rival what is on offer at Sunnydale Holidays.
Here’s a list of amenities you’ll get to take advantage of if you stay with Sunnydale Holidays Near Knaresborough North Yorkshire
- Large Four Plus People Wood Burning Hot Tubs
- Wood Burning Chimineas
- Outdoor Fireplaces or Fire Pits
- Two Saunas
- Pool Table
- Basketball
- Archery
- Darts
- Foosball
- Rodeo Bull – A must if you’ve never ridden one!
- Wood Fired Pizza Ovens
- Then you have the animals; you can interact with them😊
- A fantastic collection of vintage farm equipment
- The vintage car collection
It’s also worth mentioning that all the accommodations have luxurious bathrobes for the hot tubs! North Yorkshire.
Knaresborough is one of the most scenic and iconic towns in Yorkshire. Staying in Knaresborough will cost you an arm and a leg. And, while Knaresborough might be what brings you to Sunnydale Holidays, you are better off staying outside of the actual town. The town is heaving on a weekend, packed with tourists. If you are visiting Knaresborough for a day, this is neither here nor there, but if you’re planning to stay a couple of days, choose a you’reon that gives you the bonus of experiencing the real Yorkshire Countryside!
In addition to being right next door to Knaresborough, it’s close to Harrogate, York, and Ripon!
Recommended Tours
Wood Burning Hot Tubs
Yes, yes—I know I have mentioned this before. But until you experience this for yourself, I can’t describe how relaxing or magical it is. All accommodations at Sunnydale Holidays have a wood-burning hot tub, so I chose Sunnydale Holidays alone.
The Variety of Boutique Accommodations
I chose a shepherd’s hut. I’ve stayed in many, and I love them! However, the shepherd’s hut I’ve Chosen Is one of many unusual accommodations you can shepherd.
Here’s a list of all the current unusual accommodations:
- Shepherds Huts
- The Mill Barn
- American R.V Retro Camper
- The Pool House and The Orchard House
- The Retro Love Bug is the most popular choice!
- The Unique Sea Boat Cruiser
I’ll bet you anything, more unusual places will be added. I know an old houseboat on the property will eventually be part of the offerings.
I stayed In The Shepherd’s Hut.
One of my all-time favorite camping accommodations is the Shepherd’s Hut. They are whimsical—cozy, warm, small spaces that always capture my imagination.
What Is a Shepherd’s Hut?
A shepherd’s hut is a small, traditional dwelling typically used by shepherds to shelter and store their flocks while tending to them in the countryside. It is often made of wood and metal and features a small living area, sleeping area, and cooking area. Some modern versions are used as vacation rentals or even as permanent homes.
Antique Farm Equipment
Whether you’re fascinated by the history of farming and the progression of equipment, you’ll find some incredible photographs. This is the location for you!
This is a photographer’s paradise, and you can access it all. I stayed solo on this adventure; photographers have my tripod with me. That’s a shame because I could visualize 100-plus shots that would rock Instagram.
The Hosts
Look, I travel at least six months of the year. It’s not like I don’t get to meet my fair share of wonderful hosts. HoIt’sr, David, and Gillian stand out from the pack.
They are welcoming and kind and go above and beyond to ensure you have the most relaxing stay possible.
As an Airbnb host, I firmly believe there are two types: 1. Those of us who want you to have the most incredible time and apply our own experience to create this, and 2—those who want to make a quick buck.
Dave and Gillian are type one. Their approach puts most to shame, and this is a rare find.
Antique Cars
David collects everything antique, whether farm equipment, boats, motor homes, or cars. This is another super cool reason to stay here. Any antique enthusiast and those who want to capture some retro images will be in heaven.
There’s No Wi-Fi
Now, some of you will roll your eyes—relax—we all have Wi-Fi and hotspots these days. The goal here is for you to relax. Part of this is to be off the grid. Your setup here does precisely this. Turn off all the gadgets and embrace the experience.
I know some people will take this as a negative vs. a pro, but take it as such and wind it down.
It’s a Working Farm
Raise your hand if you don’t want to live on a farm, eat farm-fresh eggs and meat, and even bottle-feed farm, and don’t I think not! Interacting with animals is another thing I enjoy. I was here over the winter, so I didn’t get to feed any babies as I have at other locations. Regardless, it’s an option that your kids will love!
Location Location!
When people visit Yorkshire, England, they typically include the small villages and towns on their list. Knaresborough is no exception, and it’s close to Harrogate, York, and Ripon!
What you need to know:
- There is a two-night minimum booking requirement.
- The large barn sleeps 12 in 6 large on-suite rooms and requires a three-night minimum booking.
- You can only book to stay here via Airbnb.
FAQ’s
How do I spend a day in Knaresborough?
There’s so much to see and do in Knaresborough. Here are a few highlights that should be on your list:
· Knaresborough Castle
· Mother Shipton’s Cave
· The Knaresborough Viaduct – aka The River Nidd Viaduct
· Visit Allerton Hall
What is Knaresborough in Yorkshire famous for?
The River Nidd and the Knaresborough Viaduct are among the many natural attractions in Knaresborough. Additionally, Knaresborough Castle and Mother Shipton’s Cave, a popular tourist attraction, are located here.
Closing Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Sunnydale Holidays near Knaresborough North Yorkshire, so much so that it warrants this article!
I was blessed with a beautiful storm that made my hot tub experience even more exotic, and I felt like I had the entire place to myself.
I was here over Christmas, and David and Gillian graciously let me check out late, for which I am so grateful. They also left me a Christmas present, a box of chocolates, which was a pleasant surprise.
Aside from solo travelers like me, this is a place the entire family can and will enjoy. It’s perfect for couples, families, or if you are celebrating an event. The Mill Barn is for you!
Looking For More Things To Do In Yorkshire?
- 20 Of The Best British Family Days Out
- Castle Howard – Yorkshires Brideshead Revisited
- Harewood House – England
- Harrogate Majestic Hotel: A Luxurious Stay in the Heart of North Yorkshire
- North Yorkshire England – The Complete Guide
- Turkish Baths In Harrogate, England
- York – The Heart Of The Viking Territory
- Yorkshire Lavender Explored
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The photos you’ve shared are breathtaking!