A Cosy Autumn Escape: Our Family Stay at Catgill Farm

Arrival & first impressions

As you pull into Catgill Farm (just outside of Bolton Abbey), you immediately feel that you’re somewhere peaceful and untouched by urban rush. The farm is family-run and nestled on the edge of the woodland, with views across the Wharfe Valley.
We stayed in one of the glamping timber pods (specifically the Apline Swiss Ski pod). Inside, it’s all dark painted wood, fairy lights, and alpine-chalet touches. Outside, there’s a private hot tub and fire pit with countryside views that make you forget we were less than an hour from home.

The best part? Even in November, it felt snug and warm. Heating, proper beds (no sleeping bags required), and a little kitchen setup meant we could hunker down in full comfort while the wind whipped across the valley.

Inside the Swiss Ski Pod

For a family of four, it was just the right amount of space. There’s a main bed plus bunks for the kids, a small but well-equipped kitchen (hob, microwave, fridge, toaster), a cute seating area and a table and benches.

We loved the little touches — fairy lights and fluffy throws — all giving that “cosy cabin” feel. The pod is beautifully built.

That heavenly hot tub

Let’s be honest, the outdoor wood-fired hot tub is half the reason anyone books this place. We bundled the kids into bed, jumped into the tub and watched the steam rise into the cold night air while looking out across the Dales. Total bliss.

If you’ve never used a log-fired tub before, it does take a bit of prep but the team at Catgill provide all the instructions, and it’s part of the fun — a little “off-grid” in the best way.

Location & things to do

The location is superb for a relaxed family break:

• A short walk (approx 15 minutes) down to the beautiful ruins of Bolton Abbey and river bank for a bit of paddle or nature spotting.

• Right next door (literally across the lane) is Hesketh Farm Park — tractors, animals, feedings etc — perfect for our little ones (this had just closed for the season for us so check on opening times).

• You’re in the heart of the Dales: scenic walks, the Dales Way footpath starts nearby, villages like Skipton, Ilkley, Grassington within easy drive.

• See my separate blog post with tonnes more info on what to do in this area.

What we loved most

• The hot tub under the stars: magical, especially after the kids were asleep.

• The blend of luxury + nature: you feel outdoorsy but also very comfortable.

• The space for the children: This was central for us — being able to let them roam safely in the meadow, explore, and then bring them back to a cosy base.

• The views! Just stunning across the valley, especially early morning when the mist lifts.

Things to note / tips

• The terrain is fairly hilly: The glamping area is on woodland edge, so while pods are level, getting to some parts might involve slight slopes.

• If you’re staying in pod and want to cook outdoors, remember there is a pizza oven + fire pit outside.

• For younger children, pack appropriate footwear/wellies: if you wander to the river at Bolton Abbey or around the meadow there may be muddy patches.

• Check on dog-policy: If you bring a dog, you’ll need a dog-friendly pod; so plan accordingly.

• If dining out or heading to the pub, check opening hours (especially off-peak) — on-site kitchen hours may vary.