Glamping in the Yorkshire Dales: campsites, tips and things to do

Discover the best glamping experiences in the Yorkshire Dales, plus local attractions, packing advice and tips for family-friendly adventures.



We'll never stop shouting about how special it is here in the Yorkshire Dales.

Maybe it's the quiet. Maybe it's the fresh air, the rolling hills or the feeling that you've stepped into one of the most beautiful landscapes in Britain. Maybe it's more than a touch of local pride.

Whatever the magical ingredient, the Yorkshire Dales more than earns its reputation. This beautiful landscape is one of the UK's most popular destinations for people ready to escape their routines and rediscover the outdoors.

But what if you love nature, but don't love the idea of trying to sleep on a thin camping mat in a muddy field?

Glamping offers the perfect middle ground.

Glamping, short for "glamorous camping", combines the adventure of camping with some of the much-appreciated comforts of home. Think proper beds, wood burning stoves, cosy shepherd huts and stunning countryside views from an insulated geodome pod.

Glamping is perfect for a romantic weekend, a family holiday or a group getaway – and the Yorkshire Dales has plenty of it to offer.

Here's our guide to glamping in the Yorkshire Dales, including where to stay, what to bring and our favourite things to do while you're here.

Why choose the Yorkshire Dales for glamping?

Covering hundreds of square miles across North Yorkshire and beyond, the national park is famous for its expansive yet feature-rich landscape. Think limestone valleys, dry stone walls, waterfalls and rivers, historic villages and ancient cave systems.

Here, you can spend the morning exploring caves, the afternoon hiking through open countryside, and the evening sitting under the stars with a hot drink.

It offers a balance of outdoor adventure, local attractions and creature comforts, so there's always something to do, whatever the weather. And that's perfectly suited to glamping.

What types of glamping accommodation are available?

One of the biggest appeals of glamping is variety.

In the Yorkshire Dales, you'll find accommodation ranging from simple camping pods to luxury countryside retreats.

Here are some popular options.

Camping pods

Pods are often insulated wooden structures with beds, heating and electricity. They're ideal for families, couples and first-time glampers, providing shelter and comfort while still giving you that outdoor experience.

Shepherd huts

Shepherd huts offer a more romantic, traditional feel. Many include double beds, wood-burning stoves, kitchenettes and outdoor areas such as fire pits and roll-top bath tubs under the stars. 

They're especially popular with couples looking for a quiet escape.

Luxury lodges and cabins

For those who want maximum comfort, some glamping sites offer hot tubs, underfloor heating, full kitchens and private terraces.

This style of glamping can feel closer to a boutique holiday than traditional camping, while still offering the peace and privacy of a rural escape.

Is glamping family-friendly?

Absolutely.

Glamping is often easier for families than traditional camping because it removes some of the practical challenges.

Instead of worrying about tent setup, wet sleeping bags, and uncomfortable sleeping arrangements, you can focus on actually enjoying your time together.

The Yorkshire Dales is particularly good for families because there's so much variety nearby, from museums, wildlife and walks to climbing and cave-exploring.

Is glamping suitable for couples?

Definitely.

For couples, glamping can offer privacy, quiet evenings, cosy interiors, scenic views and star-filled skies. Many sites also include hot tubs, fire pits or wood-burning stoves, making them ideal for a romantic escape.

Great glamping locations in the Yorkshire Dales

Here are a few of our favourite glamping sites. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat or a stylish family basecamp situated steps from iconic hiking trails, you're sure to find something that fits the bill. All offer the ultimate balance of wilderness and indulgence.

Catgill Farm

Featuring bespoke timber pods and stargazing geodomes equipped with private hot tubs, the site sits on the Bolton Abbey Estate and operates a seasonal pizza kitchen.

Little Seed Field

On offer here are octagonal, fully insulated wild cabins perched on the heather moorlands of Nidderdale. This working dairy farm is completely off-grid, perfectly catering to those seeking a true digital detox.

Swinton Estate

Here, authentic Mongolian meadow yurts and rustic tree-lodge cabins are nestled into a hillside forest. It includes an on-site cafe and provides direct access to expansive estate walking trails.

Ribblesdale Pods

This site has nine luxury mega pods situated directly on the classic Yorkshire Three Peaks walking route. Dog-friendly and family layouts are available here.

What should you pack for a glamping trip?

Even luxury glamping still involves the outdoors, so packing smart matters.

The essentials should include:

• Layers: the Yorkshire weather can change quickly, even in summer! Be sure to bring along waterproofs, warm jumpers and comfortable walking clothes. 
• Sturdy footwear: even if you're staying in a luxury pod, countryside paths can get muddy. Walking boots or wellies are always a good idea.
• Torch: as the Dales are a designated International Dark Sky Reserve, some sites will have limited lighting at night. A torch can come in very handy.
• Snacks and drinks: many glamping sites are remote, so having supplies on hand will make your evenings easier.
• Entertainment: a deck of cards, books, board games or binoculars can make evenings more enjoyable, especially if you're glamping with children.
  
  

Exploring Stump Cross Caverns

The best glamping trips balance relaxation with adventure. Fortunately, the Yorkshire Dales gives you plenty of both.

One of the top family-friendly attractions in the area is right here at Stump Cross Caverns. These fascinating limestone caves allow visitors to explore underground chambers filled with ancient mineral formations and geological features formed over thousands of years. 

Exciting, exhilarating and educational, it's completely different from your usual countryside day out.

And if the Yorkshire weather turns? Being tucked away beneath the Dales, it's an ideal attraction no matter what the skies are doing.

A glam adventure

Glamping in the Yorkshire Dales offers the best of both worlds – outdoor adventure with a little bit of added luxury.

Whether you're staying off-grid or in a luxury cabin, you'll have easy access to some of Yorkshire's best scenery, walks, villages and family attractions.

Be sure you leave time to add Stump Cross Caverns to your itinerary. It's one of the most memorable underground experiences you can have in the UK, and the perfect addition to any Yorkshire escape.

Are you preparing for a trip to the Yorkshire Dales? Plan your itinerary with our guide to the best Yorkshire Dales attractions. And don't forget to book your tickets to Stump Cross Caverns – it's always an adventure, whatever the weather.