A sublime sheperd's hut for 2, that's perfectly placed to explore the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District
Space & setting.
This is a brilliant base for adventures in both the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District. Secluded away in its own field in a peaceful hamlet, it has the most stunning views over the Mallerstang valley, and during golden hour the fells glow as the sun begins to set. Later, the night sky seems spray painted by stars.
Gorgeous interiors are the work of Soho House designer Georgina Rose, so you can expect the highest of standards; off-grid, yet sublimely luxe. There are Ashbee + Stone fittings; a DeVol kitchen and a fancy Mandarin Stone bathroom with an amazing shower. Just the thing to sluice away the day’s explorations, whether that’s hiking up Wild Boar Fell opposite, exploring sleepy country lanes on 2 wheels, or wild swimming in the River Eden. And though the zinc counter-top was custom made by Architectural Antiques you’ll be forgiven for not cooking. The owners have a list of top local chefs that can be booked for special occasions (or just for those nights when you don’t want to lift a finger). You’ll need to light your firepit, but apart from that, it’s easy does it all the way.
Getting here: you’ll need to drive
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Plus gifts on arrival when you book with Kip.
Sustainability.
Lots of new saplings have been planted in the field, in conjunction with the Woodland Trust.
Surrounds.
- Walk (or run!) up Wild Boar Fell, straight from your front door.
- Wild swim in the River Eden.
- Smardale Nature Reserve is just on your doorstep, with red squirrels, roe deer, and that infamous viaduct.
- Ride the scenic Carlisle-to-Settle train over the same viaduct (hop on at Kirkby Stephen station, 5 minutes away).
- The Nateby Inn is 2 miles away (a 45-min walk) for a pint, through the fields along a footpath. Or drive to The Black Bull in Sedbergh for excellent food.
- Bring your own bikes and explore the Yorkshire Dales on 2 wheels.
- Or join the Coast-to-Coast path for some serious walking.
- Spend a day in the spectacular Lake District, hiking up steep pikes, past mountain tarns and around brooding lakes. Or for something gentler, we love the historic steamers that puff across Ullswater.
Specifics.
- Shepherd’s hut in its own field
- Open-plan exterior warmed by a woodburner
- Kingsize bed
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower and Bramley toiletries
- Small kitchenette with an electric induction hob, fridge, toaster, kettle and cafetière etc
- Woodburning stove with oven insert
- Basic supplies plus welcome hamper provided
- Alfresco dining table in a private woodland area
- Firepit with grill
- Binoculars, torch, blanket, umbrella, Bluetooth radio/speaker, OS map of the local area
- Book directly with local chefs for private catering
- Dog friendly
- No WiFi but there is 4G
- The owners live 5 mins’ away
- Walk to a pub (2 miles); drive to shops and restaurants (5-15 mins)
- Booking conditions: a 2-night minimum stay
- Remember to pack: wellies or walking boots and a waterproof all year round, just in case! Midge spray in summer
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30% deposit on booking, with the balance due 12 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations permitted 12+ weeks prior to stay, with deposit refunded minus a £30 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 12 weeks of stay.
FAQs.
The nearest pub – the Black Bull at Nateby – is a 40 minute stroll from the house across the fields.
Check in: 4pm
Check out: 10.30am
Its superb dark skies are one of the things that make the Yorkshire Dales National Park so special. With large areas completely free from local light pollution, it’s a fantastic place to start your stargazing adventure.
No. Please note that there is a short walk from the car parking to the Hut (about 100 metres) across a field with uneven ground!
No Wifi or TV (for a fully off-grid experience) but there is phone reception and a DAB radio (if you still want to be a bit on grid!)