From award winning, eco-friendly cottages, to shepherd huts, converted railway carriages and medieval rooms in a castle gatehouse, you’ll find lots of unique self-catering accommodation here in the Heart of Yorkshire. There is plenty to do nearby or we are just a stones throw away from York if you fancy a day trip from your base here. Here’s some inspiration to tempt you.

Check out our picks below of some of the quirkiest places to stay across the district, or head to our dedicated Where to Stay page where you can find more self catering accommodation, holiday homes, camping and glamping.

Make yourself at home in the Heart of Yorkshire!

Be King or Queen of the Castle

With its association with royalty and archbishops in past centuries, Cawood is sometimes referred to as the ‘Windsor of the North’. Cawood Castle is even believed to be the source of the Humpty Dumpty nursery rhyme, as it was here that Cardinal Wolsey was dramatically arrested for treason on Henry VIII’s orders. The late medieval rooms in the gatehouse are all that survive of Cawood Castle, once a residence of the Archbishops of York and today, you can enjoy a unique stay in the Landmark Trust property, complete with access to your own roof terrace and views across the Vale of York.

Railway to Dreamway

Surrounded by open countryside, on the old Derwent Valley Light Railway line, you can enjoy a holiday to remember, in one of the converted railway carriages at Skipwith Station Holidays. Equipped with everything you need, including private gardens and wonderful views across open countryside, it’s the perfect base from which to explore at the Heart of Yorkshire.

Eco-Friendly Breaks

The holiday cottages at Dovecote Barns in Kelfield offer award-winning luxury, five star accommodation, they’re cosy, welcoming AND carbon neutral. Using only renewable energy, the self contained holiday cottages offer total comfort without compromise to you or the environment.  Country kitchens, log stoves, under-floor heating and ensuite bedrooms with luxury mattresses. All with their own private garden area and barbecue for dining al fresco. The Grand Barn is their new renovation, which sleeps 8 with an option for 10 with the ‘Sack Store’ annex king en-suite, making it a perfect place for friends and family to get together.

Cosy Log Cabin Getaways

Escape at the Heart of Yorkshire, in one of the district’s many countryside cabins to enjoy some peace, quiet and beautiful views aplenty.

Tucked away in a tranquil location north of Selby is Hollicarrs Holiday Park, where you can relax and unwind in luxury wooden lodges, some complete with their own private hot tub. Hollicarrs is nestled in a private and secure natural sanctuary. Entering Hollicarrs is a breathtaking experience – a Park simply like no other! As well as luxury accommodation, on site you will find a tennis court, petanque terrains, bowling green and woodland walks in abundance, including the beautiful Three Hagges Woodmeadow.

Close to the historic market town of Selby and opposite Selby Golf Club is Mackinder Farms Self catering holiday cottages and lodges. Situated on a working arable farm, and surrounded by open countryside, you’ll find peace, tranquillity – and your own private hot tub!

Shepherd Hut Hideaways and Glamorous Glamping

Based in the heart of North Yorkshire, Springwood Shepherd Huts offers luxurious, adult only, glamping in their hand built Shepherd Huts. These quirky huts boast modern luxury comfort, surrounded by countryside and plenty of fresh air. All huts come complete with a view looking out on to the field and some even have their own hot tub.

Experience nature in a whole new way with Hazlewood Castle’s Shepherd’s Hut, nestled in the grounds of Hazlewood Castle, surrounded by incredible woodland. The hand-crafted wooden hut has an authentic Yorkshire spirit. Explore the 77 acres of woodland in your very own Hazlewood wellies, spotting wildlife or perhaps trying out a trail bike before retreating to your own perfect little hideaway.

Lord and Lady of the Manor

Hidden away in a quiet corner of rural Yorkshire, Carlton Towers combines history and beauty on an epic scale. Immerse yourself in stately home grandeur with a visit to the royal home of the Duke of Norfolk, a place often used as a backdrop for film and TV.  It has a range of beautiful accommodation, including historic and luxurious bedrooms and exclusive cottages within the grounds. The Stables Tearoom at the Carlton Vineyard serves delicious locally sourced dishes and host special dining events including Wine and Tapas and tasty seasonal Sunday lunches.

Discover more amazing places to stay in the Heart of Yorkshire in our accommodation section