10 Reasons Why Howgill Lodge is the Ultimate Camping and Glamping Destination in Yorkshire
Are you searching for the best glamping in Yorkshire for your next getaway? Whether you are planning a romantic glamping break, a fun-filled family camping holiday, or a rugged outdoor adventure, choosing the right glamping site is the most important decision you’ll make for a base to explore or a place to relax.
Located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Howgill Lodge is more than just a place to pitch your own tent. It is a beautiful location where natural beauty meets high-end luxury. From our award-winning lodges with outdoor hot tubs to our traditional camping field, we provide the perfect base for exploring everything this stunning county has to offer.
We were incredibly honored to be named the North East England Winner in the 2025 Camping and Glamping Awards. We’ve worked hard to create a space where you can truly reset, and this recognition gives us even more motivation to keep making your stay with us as comfortable and memorable as possible.
[Updated March 26]
Here are 10 reasons why Howgill Lodge is the best place for your next glamping stay or camping holiday.
1. Luxurious Hot Tubs for Ultimate Relaxation
After a long day of scenic walks or cycling through the Dales, there is no better way to unwind than by sinking into your own private hot tub. At Howgill Lodge, you get the true luxury glamping experience!
Our outdoor hot tubs are set on each lodge’s private decking, allowing you to soak in the panoramic views of the Wharfe Valley while the bubbles melt away your stress. It’s the ultimate way to spend quality time with a loved one or to spend a bit of time out in nature. You’ll enjoy sitting under a canopy of stars, far away from the light pollution (did you know we’re in a part of the world that’s recognised as dark skies, far enough away from the light pollution of the city of York and others nearby?), listening to the owls hooting in the distance.
Whether you are visiting during the school holidays or seeking a quiet midweek tranquil escape, our hot tubs provide that ‘wow’ factor that turns a simple trip into a memorable stay.
2. Stunning Terrace Views and Peaceful Countryside
One of the first things guests notice when they arrive at our glamping accommodation is the scenery. Howgill Lodge is perched on a hillside, offering spectacular views that stretch for miles across the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Each of our timber lodges features a spacious seating area on a private terrace with a fire pit. It’s a lovely spot for your morning coffee as the mist clears from the valley floor, or for a glass of wine at the end of the day. Unlike a crowded touring site, our layout is designed to give you a sense of space and immersion in the peaceful countryside.
You aren’t just looking at the view, you are staying in it! The natural beauty surrounding the site makes it the perfect retreat for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who simply needs to hit the “reset” button.
Howgill Lodge: How We Compare
To help you plan your glamping holiday, we’ve looked at how Howgill Lodge in Barden compares to the wider Yorkshire market:
| Feature | Howgill Lodge | Standard Yorkshire Glamping |
| Accommodation | Award-Winning Timber Lodges | Bell tents, shepherd’s huts, or wooden pods |
| Private Facilities | Private bathroom & kitchen in every lodge | Often shared toilet block or hot showers |
| Hot Tub Style | Outdoor hot tubs (Authentic Wood-fired) | Often electric or not private |
| Cooking | Wood-fired pizzas (On-terrace oven) | Simple BBQ or shared fire pit |
| Unique Charm | Resident alpacas & Love Brownies | Standard working farm animals |
While other sites further east are near the North York Moors National Park, Howgill provides a tranquil escape in the very heart of Yorkshire and the Yorkshire Dales, making it the ideal base for those who want to wake up and get straight out to hike the hills.
3. A Tranquil Location in the Heart of the Yorkshire Dales
While some sites are located on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors or near the Yorkshire coast, our special location has Howgill Lodge sitting firmly in the heart of Yorkshire, specifically the iconic Dales. Located in the historic village of Barden, we are just a short drive from the famous Bolton Abbey estate.
Our location offers easy access to the very best of the region. You are far enough away to enjoy a tranquil escape, yet close enough to local towns like Skipton and Grassington to enjoy the market town atmosphere for a day out locally.
For those who love outdoor adventures, you are surrounded by limestone scars, hidden waterfalls, and lush green meadows. We offer a level of serenity that you simply won’t find at a busy holiday park or a site near York city centre.
4. Love Brownies Next Door for Delicious Food
One of the most unique perks of staying at Howgill Lodge is having the world-famous Love Brownies cafe right on our doorstep. Forget standard ‘campsite food’; here, you can enjoy artisan coffee and award-winning, decadent chocolate treats.
After a morning of exploring, a short walk takes you to the cafe where you can indulge in delicious food and refuel for your afternoon activities. It’s also a great spot to pick up treats to take back to your lodge. Having such a high-quality local business next door adds a touch of luxury to your glamping stay that is hard to beat. It also offers wood-fired pizzas and alcoholic drinks in Summer.
5. Family-Friendly Fun and Kids’ Play Area
Howgill Lodge is a destination for the whole family. We know that keeping the children entertained is key to a relaxing glamping holiday, which is why we have a fantastic nature-inspired play area.
Equipped with climbing frames and plenty of space for exploring and running around on the football field, it’s a safe and lovely spot for kids to burn off energy while parents relax nearby. Beyond the play area, the entire site is an education in the great outdoors. From spotting local wildlife to learning about the history of the working farm attractions nearby (Hesketh Farm Park is right next door to our sister site, Catgill Farm).
While we don’t quite have the draw of a theme park like Flamingo Land, we offer something better: the chance for children to reconnect with nature through scenic walks and fresh air. And if the kids still want a theme park day out, Lightwater Valley is under an hour away!
6. Meet Our Resident Alpacas
If you’re looking for a memorable stay, our resident alpacas are ready to welcome you! Meeting these quirky, friendly animals is a highlight for many of our guests, especially children.
They add a unique charm to the site that you won’t find at a standard tent camping site. It’s these small, personal touches like the warm welcome from the staff (and the animals!) that make us one of the best places to stay in the region.
7. Outstanding Customer Service and Clean Facilities
We pride ourselves on providing a warm welcome to every guest. As a family-run business, we understand that the difference between a good trip and an amazing stay is the service.
Our team is always on hand to provide recommendations for the local area, from the best quaint villages to visit to hidden gems in the hills.
Furthermore, we know that clean facilities are non-negotiable. Whether you are staying in a lodge with a private bathroom or using our communal toilet block for tent camping, you can expect the highest standards. Our toilet block has modern 5 star shower room facilities with hot showers that are frequently praised by our guests. We also provide free WiFi access and additional (but limited!) free private parking for all guests.
8. Incredible Cycling Routes from Your Doorstep
Yorkshire is world-renowned for its cycling, and Howgill Lodge is perfectly positioned for those who want to hit the road. We are located directly on or near some of the most iconic routes used in the Tour de France.
From the site, you have easy access to challenging climbs and rewarding descents. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, there are plenty of scenic walks and bridleways that are perfect for a family bike ride. After a day in the saddle, return to the lodge to store your gear and head straight for the hot tub to soothe any aches.
9. Award-Winning Lodges with Modern Comfort
While we love traditional tent camping, our glamping accommodation is truly something special. We have five timber lodges, three of which are dog-friendly glamping lodges: The Shepherd, The Fisherman, and The Twitcher. The Herdsman and The Gamekeeper are perfect for people travelling without dogs, and all are designed to be a home away from home.
Inside, you’ll find double beds with premium linens, a fully equipped kitchen area, a comfortable living room, and a log burner. Unlike wooden pods or bell tents, which can sometimes feel cramped, our lodges offer plenty of space for the whole family.
A standout feature is the terrace: each lodge includes a 3-in-1 fire pit with a built-in pizza oven. You can even upgrade your booking with a DIY Pizza Kit, allowing you to cook wood-fired pizzas while the sun sets over the Dales.
10. Fantastic Hiking Trails and Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, you couldn’t pick a better ideal base. Howgill Lodge is a paradise for hikers. You can leave your car on our site and not touch it again, as so many scenic walks start right from our entrance!
Whether you want a short walk along the River Wharfe to see the ruins of Barden Tower or a more strenuous hike up to Simon’s Seat for spectacular views, the options are endless. For those willing to drive a minute drive or two further, you can explore the North York Moors National Park, visit Castle Howard, or spend a day at the Yorkshire coast.
FAQs About Glamping at Howgill Lodge
What is the best glamping site in the Yorkshire Dales for families?
We think that Howgill Lodge is the perfect retreat for families due to its nature-inspired play area, resident alpacas, and proximity to the Welly Walk at Bolton Abbey.
Which Yorkshire glamping sites have private hot tubs?
Howgill Lodge offers luxury timber lodges that each feature their own private hot tub (wood-fired), offering panoramic views of the valley.
Is Howgill Lodge dog-friendly?
Yes! While we keep some lodges pet-free for guests with allergies or dog-free preferences, our newest lodge, The Twitcher, is a dedicated dog-friendly luxury cabin, as are The Shepherd and The Fisherman. We also have a dog wash and a designated dog-walking field. Find out more about the fun features for glamping with dogs at Howgill Lodge.
Plan Your Perfect Yorkshire Break
Whether you are bringing your own tent to pitch on our electric hook-up spots or booking a longer stay in one of our award-winning lodges, Howgill Lodge offers the perfect base for your Yorkshire adventure.
Don’t wait for the school holidays to book and pass you by, book your glamping stay at Howgill Lodge today and discover the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales for yourself!
