Driving into Egton Bridge, it felt like we’d unlocked a new part of a game map. Like we’d levelled up into a secret part of Yorkshire we’d never passed before. Sitting on the River Esk within the North York Moors, the small village is home to few amenities: two quaint inns and a train station. The kind of place you’d borrow sugar from a neighbour. Or the kind of place you’d get married?
Down an unsuspecting driveway lies Egton Estate and Manor, a Victorian manor house that looks staunchly over its 6,000 acres, lovingly cared for by the same family who built the current home over a century ago. Today, it’s become something quite special that’s shared with the rest of the world, so with natural curiosity, we headed over to find out what makes this place so romantic.
Offering up six different accommodation types (including the most tranquil ‘River Lodge’), guests can stay on the rural estate that sits just a fifteen minute drive outside of Whitby – where moorland meets the sleepy village and vast, countryside scenes. It’s no wonder it’s become a popular spot to tie the knot.
In addition to holiday accommodation, the Estate’s manor house and cottages are available for exclusive use for stately-style weddings – providing stunning architecture, polished gardens and views as far as the eye can see. Undeniably a romantic setting, even if you’re not the happy couple, with intimate corners, room for 160 guests, cosy lounge spaces and plenty of original features to enjoy throughout the property. The space is bright, airy, and quietly luxurious, and walking through the manor house, we sensed the togetherness that a wedding could bring to it.
But the immediate honeymoon potential has to be our favourite part. Just a stone’s throw from the main manor house lies the River Lodge – a cabin-like bolthole that sits on the river with nothing but the sound of birds tweeting overhead and the river rambling for company. A perfectly private retreat to escape to after ditching your own night do.
A large, cosy bed takes centre stage in the lodge – with plush cushions and blankets offering invitation to kick off your shoes and unwind as you step through the door. The bolthole cabin is complete with a log burner, TV and kitchenette, alongside a private deck overlooking the river below. It’s everything you need to avoid civilisation (perfect for my introverted self). There’s one key feature, however, that truly turns up the romance: the outdoor copper bath tub.
Overlooking the river, the tub is large enough for two to enjoy in the great outdoors, with, of course, hot running water for a truly luxurious experience. Enjoyed at dusk when the night sky is falling and the outdoor lights are shining, you really could be anywhere in the world, but if you ask us, Yorkshire is the perfect setting.
To find out more about weddings and accommodation at Egton Estate, head to their website here.
Read more: The Tiny North York Moors Village With Not 1, But 2 Must-Visit Foodie Pubs
