There’s so much magic about Yorkshire, but for us, its leading trait has to be its sheer amount of beautiful countryside. Fresh air, rolling hills, views for miles – we’ve got it all, alongside the most perfect places to stay, drink, and, of course, sup proper Yorkshire ales. From stunning ivy-clad castles surrounded by miles of countryside to cosy pubs with grazing sheep, here’s our guide to the best country escapes in Yorkshire. After all, there really is no place like home.
1. The Penny Bun, near Ilkley
Nestled between Otley and Ilkley in the peaceful village of Askwith, The Penny Bun is one of the most stylish country escapes in Yorkshire. Sheep graze the property’s perimeter, the first thing you see as you pull into the car park, giving a real sense of rural charm – while Japandi-inspired interiors and low lighting set the tone for an upmarket yet surprisingly cosy retreat.
Sustainability powers the beating heart of The Penny Bun, with natural materials such as linen softening the bedrooms, alongside furnishings handmade by independent creators. In the restaurant, guests can expect meat and produce reared on the Denton Reserve estate that The Penny Bun is a part of, bringing a true farm-to-fork approach to the menu and even an ever-changing low-waste menu that celebrates locally foraged produce. The Estate fettuccine is to die for, by the way, and having a bath in a screen-free bedroom overlooking the village after such a stunning meal was a real treat.
The Penny Bun, West Ln, Askwith, Otley, LS21 2JQ.
2. Swinton Estate, Masham
It’s no secret that Swinton Estate is a favourite of ours here at The Yorkshireman. But it’s almost other-worldly. A turreted fairytale castle brought to life by firey-red ivy in the autumn months and lush greenery in the summer, Swinton Estate offers the kind of escape where you drop your bags (and worries) at the door, and forget all about them as you’re whisked into the magic of the Estate.
The rooms emulate the opulence of the former private estate, with drawing rooms, a ballroom and a billiards room to peruse within the castle – allowing guests to appreciate the rich history of Swinton.
For true escapism, guests can also enjoy the luxurious on-site spa – one of the best in Yorkshire – boasting multiple pools, thermal experiences and even an outdoor swimming pond. All nestled within the stunning countryside surrounding Masham.
Swinton Estate, Ripon, HG4 4JH.
3. The Tempest Arms, near Skipton
The Tempest Arms ticks many boxes. Cosy pub? Check. Beautiful rooms? Check. Great food? Check, check, check. Found in Elslack, just outside of Skipton, The Tempest Arms offers a rural retreat which is perfect for those in search of escapism. So rural, that there are sheep grazing in view from most windows.
The pub is popular – and it’s easy to see why. Pale-washed stone interiors welcome guests like a warming hug as you enter the space, while roaring fires make it near-impossible to leave – particularly once you’ve got an ale in hand.
Bedrooms are decorated with warming, country-inspired interiors with beautiful, calming furnishings in all rooms – but it’s their Beck Side rooms which sit on the babbling brook, in particular, that make this one of the best country escapes in Yorkshire.
The Tempest Arms, Elslack Ln, Elslack, Skipton, BD23 3AY.
4. Dewars, near Malton
There’s something about Dewars, and it’s not just the cosy rooms and country charm. A unique offering just outside of Malton and nearby to the highly popular Flamingo Land resort, Dewars is the kind of escape that could transport you to anywhere in the world, all thanks to its beautiful outdoor pool and large sauna.
Expect vibrant rooms mixing eclectic styling with country charm, alongside a light and airy dining and bar space where guests can enjoy what might just be the best Sunday roast in the area. The food here is traditional with a high-end twist, offering exceptional dining with incredible flavours – whatever the occasion.
Their poolside suites are particularly special – each situated around the inviting pool space with its own private terrace overlooking the water. A great place to enjoy a coffee in the morning before having a swim.
Dewars, Main St, Kirby Misperton, Malton, YO17 6UX.
5. The Talbot, Malton
A classic escape found in Yorkshire’s food capital of Malton, The Talbot Malton resides a 17th-century coaching inn – offering truly beautiful rooms that feel both charming and stately. Overlooking the underrated countryside that surrounds this gateway to the North York Moors, The Talbot is a haven in the summer months – thanks to its large garden where guests can drink, dine and soak up the summer rays.
Great food in the ‘food capital’ here, is, of course, a given, delivering an incredible Sunday roast, and delicious dishes made using Yorkshire produce. Dining in the garden here is a must. But in the winter, expect roaring fires, cosy drawing rooms and bar spaces where you can sip cocktails, wines of the world and much more.
The Talbot Malton, Yorkersgate, Malton, YO17 7AJ.
6. The Durham Ox, Crayke
Located within a rural village setting on the very edge of the North York Moors, The Durham Ox is a picturesque pub with traditional interiors and beautiful, snug bedrooms to boot. The bustling pub and restaurant is quite the place to while away the hours, thanks to the encapsulating deep red walls that immediately transport you into the cosiest atmosphere. An atmosphere where you can kick back and enjoy delicious pub cuisine and specially selected wines – with their Yorkshire beef and seafood, in particular, upstaging the rest of the menu.
A stay in their pool suites pairs luxury amenities with country living, both boasting their own private spa pools where you can watch the sunset over the North York Moors.
The Durham Ox, West Way, Crayke, York, YO61 4TE.
7. The Burgoyne, Reeth
Equal parts tranquil and stylish, The Burgoyne sits atop the Yorkshire Dales village of Reeth, a truly special place that offers panoramic views across Swaledale and the best of village life. The air here just hits different, and The Burgoyne is the perfect base for enjoying all that Reeth has to offer – from gorgeous walks to cosy local pubs.
But most importantly, the rooms at The Burgoyne are decorated with luxury at its heart, offering contemporary rooms that look out over the village green, alongside the most beautiful dining options in the village – from artisan breakfasts to fine-dining Yorkshire cuisine. Retiring to the snug to unwind by the fire is a particular highlight.
The Burgoyne, On The Green, Reeth, Richmond, DL11 6SN.
Read more: 14 Of The Most Beautiful, Quaint Towns To Visit In Yorkshire
