Discover A Hidden Gem in Yorkshire

Image Name: views at every angle

There’s something special bubbling up in Yorkshire. Known for its deep-forested, heather-filled moors, undulating dales, and peaks, and a golden sandy coastline, this region is a true gem. It’s become a foodie sensation, with seven restaurants featured in the 2024 Michelin Guide. But there’s more to Yorkshire than just culinary delights; it’s making waves in the hospitality scene too. A new wave of hoteliers and estate owners is emerging, offering stylish accommodations that skip the bling and chintz. One such standout is The Abbey Inn by The Saltmoore and Michelin-lauded chef Tommy Banks. Adding to this line-up is West Cawthorne, a rural North Yorkshire hideaway offering a modern take on the Brontës’ romanticism of the region with its rustic-cool self-catered newly-restored barns and handmade A-frame cabins nested on a hill at the edge of the North York Moors National Park, the same area awarded International Dark Sky Reserve status in 2020.

Location and Surroundings
Set in 26 acres of rolling countryside, West Cawthorne is a privately owned estate overlooking the Vale of Pickering, located at the edge of the North York Moors National Park. Surrounded by knockout views at every angle, it’s a place to unwind, recharge, and indulge in local produce. It’s the perfect base for exploring the National Park, with walking trails and cycle routes on your doorstep, and a chance to visit Malton, dubbed The Foodie Capital of Yorkshire, just a 20-minute drive away.

Style and Aesthetic
After standing empty for 13 years, Richard and Sophie Vermont acquired West Cawthorne in 2019, moving from their Maidenhead terrace to this sprawling estate with their three young children. Richard, a local, and Sophie took the plunge to run the estate as a business, converting the outbuildings into luxury holiday rentals. They created two triangular A-frame cabins inspired by those seen around the Great Lakes in North America.

The two barns, The South Range and The West Range, are unique in style but both maximize the stunning views with huge floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and calming palettes. Original features, including exposed beams and stonework, complement the curated antiques throughout.

The two A-frame cabins boast a super-minimal aesthetic, with simple plywood panel walls, rush matting, and crisp black accents. Expansive glass frontages frame those syrupy sunset views.

Accommodation Options
For families or groups of friends, the open-plan barns are ideal. The South Range barn, which sleeps up to six guests, features two king-size bedrooms and an adorable mezzanine area perfect for children, with two single beds inside. The West Range has two super-king bedrooms, and up to four guests can sleep in them.

Whichever you choose, you’ll find yourself snapping away, dreaming of living here. The South Range has a distinct cozy-cool feel with bare lime-plastered walls, high vaulted ceilings, light wooden beams, and poured concrete floors. The emphasis on neutral tones—from hessian rugs to wicker lampshades, rustic wooden benches, and vintage ceramic pots and vases—creates a soul-soothing space that never feels too precious. The heart-racing panoramas outside always steal the show.

Alongside design-led decor touches, the estate has partnered with local landscape artist Kingmaker Studio, creating a series of textured abstract pieces displayed around the barns and cabins—some of which you can purchase.

You’ll love soaking in the enormous bath in the master suite, a glass of wine in hand, while your family enjoys a game of Scrabble up in the loft above the sitting room. Or, make a beeline for the hot tub in your private garden, surrounded by sprouting lavender and the rolling North Yorkshire hills.

For those in the A-frame cabins, what they lack in space, they make up for with a built-in deck, a secret sunken bath, and a fire pit area. Romantic weekends away don’t get dreamier than this. When darkness falls, the night sky is bejeweled with billions of stars. Each room comes with binoculars, or you can bring your telescope to enjoy the serious star-spotting treat.

Image Name: The rustic charm and modern luxur

Food and Drink
Coming to West Cawthorne is all about switching off from fussy hotel dining times and enjoying what you want when you want. You’ll be welcomed with a hamper of local produce: sourdough bread, Yorkshire tea, Roost coffee from Malton, and Botham’s of Whitby’s famous biscuits.

The estate has partnered with Made in Oldstead, a meal kit service founded by Michelin Star Yorkshire chef Tommy Banks. Guests receive a 10 percent discount, and they’ll deliver meals directly to your barn. Whether you want to try a seven-course feast or a three-course date night pleaser, they’ve taken all the hassle out so you can enjoy the accompanying wine pairings.

Off-site, there are plenty of delicious places to eat. Don’t miss fish and chips at the aptly named Fish Cottage in Sandsend, a 40-minute drive away. For something closer, The Blacksmiths Arm in Lastingham, a 10-minute drive away, offers hearty pies and proper ales.

Facilities and Amenities
Every aspect of your stay has been thoroughly considered. Bathrooms are stocked with goodies from Chapter Organics, made in small batches in nearby Boston Spa. There’s a cupboard full of board games and interior magazines to swoon over. Both barns come with gardens, barbecues, and private hot tubs. The cabins each have sunken baths and fire pits, perfect for toasting marshmallows.

Guests are encouraged to roam freely in the estate’s 26 acres, with mown paths to follow through the sun-dappled meadows. Sophie and Richard have embarked on a rewilding project, attracting more wildlife like bats, badgers, and buzzards. For a bit of friendly competition, try your hand at boules in the shared Petanque area, with kits provided in each property.

Local Attractions and Activities
While you might want to simply relax, there’s plenty to do when you’re ready to explore. Foodie haven Malton is just 20 minutes away, with dozens of independent artisans, including Florian Poirot’s macarons and the Rare Bird Gin Distillery. On sunny days, head to Hutton Le Hole, a 15-minute drive away, where kids can paddle in the beautiful beck before lunch at The Old School House.

For more experienced walkers, the Heart of the Moors offers the three-mile circular walk starting from Goathland, leading to the majestic Mallyan Spout, the highest waterfall in the North York Moors. Wear shoes with good grip as it gets slippery.

Instagram-Worthy Moments
You’ll want to capture every inch of your barn or cabin interiors. West Cawthorne has become a popular location for homeware brands to shoot from. If you’re an early riser, catch the sunrise and morning mist sweeping over Malton in the distance for a truly spectacular sight.

Perfect For?
West Cawthorne is ideal for those seeking a stylish getaway that pulls at the heartstrings. Couples and families alike will appreciate the pink-cheeked, meadow-fresh lungful of Yorkshire air.

Practical Information
Driving from London to Pickering takes around 5 hours. If you’re using public transport, take the train from King’s Cross to Malton, changing at York, which takes around 2.5 hours. Due to its remote location, a taxi to West Cawthorne from Malton train station takes about 20 minutes.

In conclusion, West Cawthorne offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, making it one of Yorkshire’s coziest stays. Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend getaway or a family holiday, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable experience.