Cottage Holidays in Yorkshire: Your Ultimate Guide to England’s Best County

Yorkshire is the perfect cottage holiday destination that combines stunning landscapes, rich heritage and great hospitality. With thousands of cottages across England’s largest county, you can choose from luxury hot tub retreats to dog friendly cottages in picturesque villages. Many of these cottages are beautifully renovated and in villages so they have extra charm. Whether you’re looking for a romantic break in the Yorkshire Dales or a family adventure along the Yorkshire coast, this guide will help you get started with planning your Yorkshire holiday.

The Hayloft – This delightful cottage is situated in the village of Hawes, North Yorkshire. Balcony. One pet welcome. Exposed beams. Leyburn 16 miles.

The Hayloft, North Yorkshire

Quick Facts

• Yorkshire has thousands of cottages from luxury with hot tubs to dog friendly countryside retreats
• Popular areas include the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors, coastal towns like Whitby and Scarborough, and historic cities like York and Harrogate
• Cottages range from romantic getaways for two, to large family homes, and self catering holiday cottages.
• Many cottages offer short breaks and week-long stays
• Best time to visit is May to September for outdoor activities, but winter is great for fireside breaks
• Many cottages have modern amenities like hot tubs, wood burning stoves, enclosed garden areas and ground floor accessibility
• Numerous holiday cottages in Yorkshire feature open-plan living spaces for a spacious feel

Tiplady Cottage – This charming cottage rests in Bainbridge near Hawes in Yorkshire. In a National Park. Character features. Office space. Garden. Woodburning stove.

Tiplady Cottage, Bainbridge

Why Yorkshire for Your Cottage Holiday

England’s biggest county has more variety than most places can match. From coastlines with golden sand to hills with stone villages, Yorkshire is the perfect base for any kind of break. The county has three National Parks – the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and part of the Peak District – so you can explore some of England’s most beautiful countryside. These National Parks also have loads of luxury and unique cottages to suit every taste.

Medieval York with its ancient walls and towering Minster, Victorian Harrogate with its spa culture, and literary Haworth where the Brontë sisters wrote their masterpieces. Historic landmarks like Fountains Abbey, Richmond Castle and the dramatic ruins at Whitby connect you to centuries of English history. In the Yorkshire Dales, villages like Aysgarth, Hawes and Masham add to the region’s cultural and historical charm. Yorkshire’s food and drink is another bonus. Traditional Yorkshire puddings, locally brewed ales and bustling farmers’ markets in towns like Grassington and Masham give you a taste of the real Yorkshire. Many cottages have gourmet kitchens so you can cook with fresh local produce and independent shops in market towns have unique finds. Yorkshire has loads of local events and festivals throughout the year to celebrate its food and cultural heritage.

Self catering means you can really make Yorkshire your home. Unlike hotels you can come and go as you please, cook family meals and make your own schedule around the region’s many attractions.

Heugh Barn – This converted barn sits close to the charming village of Muker in North Yorkshire. Open-plan living. In Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Heugh Barn, Muker

Top Yorkshire Areas for Cottage Holidays

The Yorkshire Dales are some of England’s most beautiful limestone landscapes, where traditional stone cottages blend in with villages like Malham, Grassington and Settle. This is the perfect place for walkers, with the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge and gentler walks through flower filled meadows attracting thousands of visitors every year.

Charming market towns like Skipton, Richmond and Hawes are perfect weekend destinations, each with historic castles, artisan shops and welcoming pubs. The dales cottages have exposed stone walls, wooden beams and countryside views that are the traditional English cottage experience.

Many properties in this area welcome your four-legged friend, with enclosed garden spaces and direct access to some of England’s best walking country. The rolling hills are a photographer and nature lovers dream, and with historic landmarks on your doorstep there’s always something new to discover. Many Yorkshire holiday cottages include off-road parking for guests, adding convenience to your stay.

Oughtershaw Hall – A luxurious country estate nestled in Oughtershaw, Yorkshire Dales. Family-friendly. Open fire. Barbecue. Games room. Swimming pool.

Oughtershaw Hall, Yorkshire Dales

Yorkshire Coast

The Yorkshire coast stretches for miles, with holiday cottages in seaside towns like Whitby, Scarborough and the picturesque fishing villages of Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes. These coastal locations are close to family friendly beaches at Bridlington, Filey and Hornsea where golden sands meet the North Sea. Scarborough, Whitby, and Robin Hood’s Bay are popular coastal towns in Yorkshire. The Yorkshire Coastis also rich in historic landmarks.

Many coastal cottages have spectacular sea views and direct access to the Cleveland Way coastal path. The historic port of Whitby, famous for its connections to Captain Cook and Bram Stoker’s Dracula is the perfect base to explore maritime heritage and cliff top walks. Some of the beaches in Yorkshire, like Hunmanby Gap and Reighton Sands are dog friendly all year round so perfect for visitors with pets.

Families love the coast for its combination of beaches, attractions like the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and charming villages where independent shops sell everything from locally caught seafood to handcrafted souvenirs.

Madelines View – A traditional, two-bed cottage with stunning views across the harbour to Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire. Beach nearby. Pet-friendly. Close to amenities.

Fossil Cottage – A delightful Grade II Listed former fisherman’s cottage in a great location, just yards from the famous 199 Steps, beach and near the iconic Whitby

St Hilda’s – A lovely period property retaining many original features and providing quality accommodation for four people.

Above & Beyond – A fantastic second-floor apartment resting in Whitby, North Yorkshire. Near a beach. Off-road parking. Close to amenities. In a National Park. Nice views.

Madelines View, Yorkshire

North York Moors

North York Moors is a different kind of Yorkshire experience, with heather covered moorland stretching to the horizon and Dark Sky Reserve status providing exceptional stargazing opportunities. Cottages near Helmsley and Pickering put you within easy reach of steam railway experiences and medieval abbeys like Rievaulx and Fountains Abbey. Iconic sites like Bolton Abbey and Ilkley Moor in Wharfedale add to the region’s appeal. This area is perfect for those looking for peace and quiet and connection with nature. The vast open spaces, dotted with ancient stone crosses and historic sites, create a mystical atmosphere that’s ideal for relaxation and contemplation. Knaresborough features an iconic viaduct over the River Nidd, adding to the charm of the region.

Ivy Cottage – A lovely double-fronted cottage within a short stroll of the picturesque market town of Helmsley within the North Yorkshire National Park

Foxglove Cottage – A snug ground-floor cottage tucked away in the quiet village of Harome near Beadlam in North Yorkshire. Electric fire. Romantic retreat. Helmsley 2.7 miles

Black Sheep Cottage – A terraced, stone-built cottage resting in the town of Thirsk, North Yorkshire. Near National Park. Off-road parking. Close to shops.

Corner Cottage – Charming stone grade II listed cottage in pretty village of Cropton. Original beams and two woodburning stoves. Comfortable, traditional accommodation. Excellent walking area.

Ivy Cottage, Helmsley

Types of Yorkshire Holiday Cottages

Luxury Cottages

Yorkshire’s luxury cottage market is for those looking for special occasion celebrations and premium comfort. These properties have hot tubs, log burning stoves and elegant furnishings – for your indulgence. Many luxury cottages also have private hot tubs for extra indulgence. Hand-picked luxury cottages in Yorkshire are available for both weekend breaks and longer stays.

Copmanthorpe Hall– This superb six bedroom farm house is nestled on the outskirts of Copmanthorpe, resting in the city of York. Enclosed garden.

The Old Post Office is a pleasant, three-storey, semi-detached house situated in Shipton By Beningbrough, York, boasting a hot tub and two Smart TVs

The Cart House – A stylish barn conversion resting in Wilberfoss, East Riding of Yorkshire. Enclosed garden. Parking. Countryside views. York 7.4 miles; Hull 29.3 miles.

The Grange – A charming, pet-friendly holiday home located in Cawood, North Yorkshire and it has several living areas and two woodburning stoves. York 10.6 miles.

Copmanthorpe Hall, York

Dog Friendly Cottages

Most Yorkshire holiday cottages welcome pets, as many families consider their four-legged friend an essential part of any holiday.

The Yorkshire coast is particularly good for dog owners, with miles of beaches at places like Hunmanby Gap and Filey where dogs can run free. The Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors have countless footpaths and bridleways for dogs of all sizes and energy levels.

Many dog friendly cottages provide welcome packs for pets, with maps of nearby vets and pet shops. This attention to detail means both human and canine guests can enjoy their Yorkshire holiday to the full.

Manor House – A beautiful eight-bedroom holiday home resting at the heart of Hornington Manor in Bolton Percy, North Yorkshire. Smart TVs. Open fire. En-suite. Barbecue.

Chapel Cottage – Attractive, period cottage in pretty Stillington village. Character beams, open fire, enclosed sunny courtyard garden. Quality accommodation, well-equipped and comfortable. Many attractions close by.

Croft Granary – Delightful brick-built Stillington cottage on edge of pretty village. Tastefully renovated with comfortable accommodation. Excellent walking nearby. Close to many attractions. York 11 miles.

Cabbage Hall Cottage – Romantic cottage near Wetherby, in small rural village of Clifford. Three local pubs. Good walks from door. Patio. WiFi. Wetherby 3 miles.

Chapel Cottage, Stillington Village

Family Cottages

Large family groups find excellent accommodation in Yorkshire cottages for 6-12 people. These properties have multiple bedrooms, games rooms and outdoor spaces for children to play safely.

Family cottages are often located near major attractions like Flamingo Land, Yorkshire Wildlife Park and various adventure parks throughout the region.

Booking family cottages requires advance planning, especially during school holidays when demand is high. But self catering and being able to maintain family routines while exploring Yorkshire’s attractions makes cottage holidays perfect for families.

Old Roost Farmhouse – Is a wonderful, 7th-century farmhouse resting in York, Yorkshire. Central location. Pet-friendly. Smart TV. Close to amenities.

The Old Post Office – A pleasant, three-storey, semi-detached house situated in Shipton By Beningbrough, York, boasting a hot tub and two Smart TVs. York…

The Stables and West Wing – A fabulous, six-bedroom property resting within a Grade II listed manor house in Bolton Percy, North Yorkshire. Open fire. Countryside views. Large. Characterful. Smart TV….

Cobblers Cottage – A contemporary detached home situated in the village of Wistow near Selby. Pet-friendly. Ideal for families. Private hot tub. Howden 12.5 miles; Castleford 15.6 miles.

The Old Post Office. York

Things to Do

York is one of England’s oldest cities, with medieval walls surrounding a treasure trove of attractions including York Minster, the Jorvik Viking Centre and the Shambles. Use York as your base and you’re within easy reach of many castle ruins like Richmond Castle, Skipton Castle and the clifftop fortress at Scarborough. The Yorkshire Dales has some of England’s most beautiful driving routes, including the Buttertubs Pass and Fleet Moss road. These roads connect picturesque villages where you can stop for pub lunches and visit local markets selling local produce.

Steam railway enthusiasts shouldn’t miss heritage lines like the Settle-Carlisle route, one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, or the North Yorkshire Moors Railway which featured in many films and TV programmes. These journeys give you a unique perspective on Yorkshire’s landscapes and a nostalgic travel experience. The Great Yorkshire Show is one of the region’s main events, showcasing its agricultural and cultural heritage.

Literary connections run deep in Yorkshire, from the Brontë Parsonage Museumin Haworth to Whitby’s Dracula connections. Walking in the footsteps of famous authors adds depth to any cottage holiday, while the landscapes that inspired their works remain largely unchanged.

Brimham Rocks with their unique geological formations are great for family days out, while dedicated walkers can tackle sections of long distance paths like the Coast to Coast walk and the Pennine Way.

When to Book

Peak season is July to August when schools are on break and the weather is at its most reliable. During these months book 3-6 months in advance for popular locations, especially for luxury properties and large family cottages. Waiting times for preferred dates can be significant without advance planning.

April to May is a great value time with fewer crowds, perfect for couples looking for romantic getaways or older travellers who prefer quieter destinations. The countryside is awash with wildflowers in spring, some of Yorkshire’s most photogenic moments.

Autumn brings stunning colours to Yorkshire’s woodlands and moors and harvest festivals and food events celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage. September and October require moderate advance booking, more flexibility than the summer peak.

Winter cottage holidays focus on indoor comforts, many properties have log fires and central heating for snuggling up after days out at York or Harrogate Christmas markets. Last minute winter bookings often become available especially for spontaneous escapes.

What to Bring

Whatever the season, Yorkshire’s weather is unpredictable so pack for all conditions. Waterproof clothing and sturdy walking boots are essentials, as is layered clothing including warm jumpers for cooler evenings even in summer.

Yorkshire’s dramatic landscapes and historic architecture provide endless photo opportunities. Ordnance Survey maps are essential for walking footpaths and bridleways safely, especially in moorland areas where the weather can change quickly. Many experienced walkers also pack first aid kits and torches for longer walks or stargazing.

Price and Practicalities

Standard Yorkshire cottages £80-150 per night, luxury £150-300 and large group properties £300+ peak season. These prices are great value compared to equivalent hotel rooms for groups or longer stays.

Most good cottage providers include fresh bed linen and towels, but always check to avoid packing confusion. Many properties also provide basic toiletries, cleaning supplies and kitchen essentials to help you get settled in quickly.

Self catering holidays can save you money especially for families who would otherwise have to pay for every meal. Local farmers markets and village shops often have ingredients at reasonable prices and support the local economy.

Many cottages now have WiFi, smart TVs and entertainment systems but internet speeds in rural areas may be slower than urban standards. Manage your expectations about internet connectivity to avoid disappointment if you need to stay connected during your holiday.

FAQs:

How much do Yorkshire cottages cost? £80-150 per night, £150-300 per night for luxury and £300+ per night for large group properties peak season.

Can I go to Yorkshire in winter? Yes, many have central heating, wood burners and cozy interiors perfect for winter breaks especially around Christmas markets.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, thousands of dog friendly cottages with enclosed gardens, dog washing facilities and great walking areas.

What’s the minimum stay? 3 night minimum stay, 7 night minimum during peak summer season and school holidays.

Do cottages provide bed linen and towels? Most providers include fresh linen and towels but always check when booking to avoid disappointment.

The Bottom Line

Yorkshire has something for everyone, from luxury retreats to family friendly bases for exploring the countryside. The combination of stunning landscapes, rich heritage and great accommodation options makes Yorkshire the perfect destination for self catering holidays. Whether you love coastal walks, mountain hikes, historic cities or just the peace of rural life, Yorkshire cottages are the perfect base for your holiday.

Start your Yorkshire cottage holiday today and browse the many properties available. With some planning and the right cottage choice your Yorkshire holiday will be one to remember.