Peaks and Pods

  The Detail...

Gloriously positioned on a small dairy farm in North Yorkshire, these five camping pods are in a league of their own. These cedar-clad beauties boast panoramic views, well-appointed terraces and comfortable double beds. And all the camping pods also have their own private bathrooms (either en suite or just a short stroll away) as standard. But the luxury doesn’t stop there, two of these beautiful pods even have their own hot tubs. And if that’s not enough to bask in, the eco-conscious owners have earned themselves a Green Tourism ‘Gold Award’ for commitment to sustainability. So, it’s gold stars all round.

These sublimely constructed cedar pods guarantee a cosy night’s sleep with great insulation, heating and double glazed doors and windows - this is definitely a few steps up from regular camping. Each one is nestled into its own bank next to a dry stone wall to protect you from the elements should they decide to be unkind.

Inside there is a fully-equipped kitchenette complete with a fridge (with ice box), hot running water, a hob, microwave, kettle and toaster. Tasteful crockery is also provided along with an array of utensils - everything from chopping boards to bottle openers. And there are table and chairs that can be folded up and stowed away. Sleeping up to four (five at a push in the luxury models), each pod has a handmade double bed with a pocket-sprung mattress and a futon/sofa bed - ideal for adventurous families.

In a nod to the dairy farm, the three different types of camping pod are aptly named ‘Gold Top’, ‘Silver Top’ and ‘Green Top’. The most luxurious (gold and silver) have luxury extras such as ensuite bathrooms, contemporary kitchens and a private hot tub. The Gold Top pods have sumptuous feather and down duvets and pillows for you to cosy down under, and one pod - Corn Bents - also benefits from a gorgeous swinging cocoon seat with luxury cushions. Although bedding bundles and extras can be added to any of the pods with luxury pod packages and special extras - from fizz and fairy lights on arrival to the full popcorn movie package.

Each pod has its own private terrace with a Italian-made outdoor dining tables and chairs, cedar boot storage boxes, and slip-resistant decking. And of course the exquisite panoramic views come as standard. There’s also the option to hire a fire bowl (that also rather handily doubles as a BBQ) - just add marshmallows!

Wander round the site and you’ll be happy to discover ‘The Hub’, a fantastic all-weather communal space that comes complete with a wood-fired pizza oven. This simple space still has full-on style with festoon lighting, cable reel tables and colourful tractor seat stools - it’s a great place to relax and socialise. Other helpful areas include the Little Laundry and the handy bike store.

The local area is bursting with things to do and is an outdoor enthusiast's dream come true. Based on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park there is plenty of walking and cycling routes - head to Gisburn Forest with its numerous trails, horse riding, bike hire and cafe. For the slower-paced amongst us, there are numerous idyllic villages to lazily discover at your own pace. And the market town of Settle is delightful with its array of independent shops, pubs and cafes.