Looking for unusual places to stay in Yorkshire?
With great northern cities to explore, some of England’s finest countryside to discover and wonderful little coastal towns to peruse, it’s no wonder that Yorkshire attracts millions of tourists each year. There’s no shortage of hotels, B&Bs, camping sites and holiday cottages across the region so our visitors are spoiled for choice when looking for somewhere to stay. Sometimes, however, it’s good to try something a little different and we’ve scoured the web for some of the most unusual places to stay in Yorkshire…
If you’re planning a visit to God’s Own County and bored of bog-standard accommodation, check out our list of quirky hotels and unconventional self-catering options.
Quirky Accommodation and Unusual Places to Stay in Yorkshire…
The Enchantment Chamber, York
44 Cocoa Suites, Navigation Road, York YO1 9AE
Harry Potter fans rejoice! Located within the historic city walls of York and in close proximity to The Shambles is a self-catering accommodation option with a magical twist. The Enchantment Chamber is an authentic wizarding world bed chamber featuring a four-poster bed, cosy open fireplace and an eclectic array of magical trinkets and treasures. Created by people who are as passionate about the wizarding world as they are about hospitality, this quirky place to stay in Yorkshire will ignite imaginations and provide an unforgettable experience in Yorkshire’s most beautiful city.
Helmsley Garden Railway Carriage
1 Bondgate, Helmsley, York YO62 5BW
Now, this is an Airbnb with a difference! Situated in the picturesque town of Helmsley in North Yorkshire, this unusual place to stay in Yorkshire is a converted railway carriage. This charming 3rd class train carriage was built in 1887 and up until 1905 ran between York and Scarborough. The Helmsley Garden Railway Carriage includes all the expected self-catering facilities and boasts charming decor which pays homage to the era in which the carriage was built. Cosy, intimate and bursting with Victorian charm this gorgeous converted railway carriage is one of the most unusual places to stay in Yorkshire for a romantic getaway.
Skipwith Station, Selby
York Road, North Duffield, Selby YO8 5DE
The Old Derwent Valley Light Railway line closed in 1985, after providing transport for the agricultural community for more than 70 years. You can now book a truly unique self-catering break at Skipwith station – one of the most unusual places to stay in Yorkshire and a must for transport lovers. Stay in one of the original train carriages which have been lovingly restored to provide comfortable and unique accommodation from which to explore this beautiful part of the county. Still very much a traditional train on the exterior, they are homely and luxurious holiday homes inside.
Swinton Park, Ripon
10 Swinton Road, Swinton, Ripon HG4 4JH
Swinton Park is a 32-bedroom luxury castle hotel. Set in 200 acres of parkland, the Grade II listed building dates back to the 17th Century. The ancestral home of the Cunliffe-Lister family features grand decor and lavish furnishings to give guests a truly unique and luxurious stately home experience. You’ll really feel like Lord or Lady of the Manor when you kick your shoes off in one of their sumptuous suites.
For those who prefer to get a little closer to nature, The Swinton Estate also offers wonderful glamping experiences. The Swinton Bivouac boasts spectacular views of the stunning Yorkshire countryside and accommodation options include tree lodges and meadow yurts. A quirky place to stay in Yorkshire with accommodation options to suit most preferences!
Shepherd’s Delight, South Stainley
The Forge, South Stainley, Harrogate HG3 3LZ
Situated in its own woodland in a 5-acre field, this traditional shepherd’s hut can sleep two people and is ideal for a romantic and unique getaway. The wonderfully rural location means peace and tranquillity are guaranteed and the only potential visitors you are likely to encounter are deer, rabbits, squirrels, weasels and pheasants. A charming little home-from-home insulated with sheep’s wool and boasting a wood-burning stove so guests can enjoy this unusual place to stay in Yorkshire whatever the weather. Cooking equipment and a good supply of logs are provided by the owners so the stove is ready to use for heating and for preparing those romantic meals for two. If that’s not enough to tempt you, outside of the hut you’ll find a bespoke hot tub, outdoor shower and BBQ with seating.
Dale Farm Treehouse, Hunmanby, near Filey
Bartindale Road, Hunmanby, Filey YO14 0JD
Revisit childhood memories by booking a short break in this adult-sized treehouse! Nestled in the woodland on the grounds of Dale Farm, this fun treehouse can accommodate 2 guests plus a dog. The raised cabin features a comfy bedroom, a real shower, a private toilet and a quirky outdoor kitchen area. This is certainly one of the most unusual places to stay in Yorkshire but it’s also in close proximity to one of the county’s most popular seaside towns – Filey. Spend your nights cosied up in this treetop retreat and your days exploring the miles of sandy beaches which line this beautiful part of the Yorkshire Coast.
North Shire, Saltburn
Liverton, Saltburn-by-the-Sea TS13 4TJ
If you’re looking for somewhere truly unique to stay then look no further than North Shire! This fantastic campsite is situated on a family farm in the spectacular North York Moors and just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Saltburn-by-The-Sea. The location itself is stunning but the accommodation on offer here is awe-inspiring. Not only one of the most unusual places to stay in Yorkshire but also the most magical!
Unwind in your very own Hobbit Hole by booking a stay at Shire House, marvel at the eclectic interiors of Le Petit Chateau, make memories in the medieval-style Ground Keeper’s Cottage or unleash your inner wizard with a weekend stay at the Dorm Room Cottage. This incredible cottage has been designed to replicate the castle turret dorm room featured in the Harry Potter movies and it promises a truly magical experience!
Bothy Lodge, Brandesburton
Starcarr Lane, Brandesburton, Driffield,YO25 8RU
The Bothy is a romantic, wooden lodge located on the grounds of Burton Lodge Guest House in East Yorkshire. Set in 2 acres of beautiful gardens, the quaint little property is great for honeymooners and those looking for a quiet couples retreat. Breakfast is served in the guest house with views across the gardens and there’s an outdoor hot tub exclusively for guests of The Bothy.
Houseboat Hotels, Sheffield
Victoria Quays, Sheffield S2 5SY
Moored in Sheffield’s unique Victoria Quays, these two static houseboats offer apartment-style accommodation and all the necessary home comforts. Prices start at just £95 per night to hire one of these boats and each can accommodate 4 guests. Deceptively spacious and in a prime location for exploring the UK’s Steel City, these comfortable houseboats provide excellent bases. Guests can enjoy a full English or continental breakfast during their stay. When requested, the items are placed in the houseboat fridge to be prepared and consumed when desired.
Crab Manor Hotel, Thirsk
Dishforth Road, Asenby, York YO7 3QL
Crab Manor Hotel near Thirsk offers various types of accommodation within its grounds. Opt to stay in the beautiful 18th-century Georgian Manor or choose their quirky thatched lodge, Scandinavian pine cabins or stunning garden rooms and luxury suites. Each of the Manor rooms is opulently decorated and adorned with beautiful treasures and antiques from around the world. They’ve also got a great restaurant onsite which is one of the best places to eat in Thirsk!
The Windmill, Scarborough
Mill Street, Scarborough YO11 1SZ
The Windmill is, as you may already have gathered, accommodation set within a 230-year-old Windmill! It’s a Grade II listed building and is one of the most unique places to stay in Scarborough. There are two fantastic apartments in the Windmill itself, both of which are set over two floors. It’s in a tranquil setting and also offers two self-catering cottages which are ideal if you’re not a fan of heights.
The Bailey, Skipton
2, 3 The Bailey, Skipton BD23 1AP
The Bailey is found in Skipton – a historic market town in North Yorkshire boasting a magnificent Norman castle and picturesque canal basin! They offer a trio of accommodation options including a welcoming Holiday Cottage, two boutique B&B rooms and their most quirky offering: a custom-built Shepherd’s Hut.
The ever-welcoming husband and wife team provides exceptional hospitality, and Skipton’s award-winning high street is just a few steps away. The Shepherd’s Hut is deceptively spacious and comfortable and you can enjoy views of the Sheep Pasture whilst indulging in a glass of bubbly or three.
The Cleveland Tontine, Staddlebridge
Staddlebridge House, Northallerton DL6 3JB
The Cleveland Tontine near Northallerton is a hotel comprising a restaurant, bar and seven eclectic bedrooms; each of which is elegantly decorated. In the early 1800s, The Tontine was used as a resting place for people travelling via coach from Sunderland to London. The decor and furnishings in the Coach House room were inspired by this period and the fabulous wallpaper was designed by a local designer, Deborah Bownes. It isn’t just the rooms here which differ from your average hotel and make this an unusual place to stay in Yorkshire either! They have unrivalled access to their very own kitchen garden so the breakfasts are consistently fresh and delicious!
La Rosa Hotel, Whitby
5 East Terrace, Whitby YO21 3HB
This elegant period townhouse on Whitby’s West Cliff is a must for Classic Literature fans. The once favourite haunt of Lewis Carroll faces the Abbey ruins which inspired Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ and its interiors have been designed for romance, escapism and fantasy. If you’re looking for unusual places to stay in Yorkshire which will wow you with the decor, then La Rosa is definitely for you. Each of La Rosa’s themed rooms is incredibly unique and furnished with carefully sourced antiques. We particularly like ‘Caravan’ which pays homage to Romany Gypsies. The hotel is just 10 minute walk away from Whitby’s main attractions.
Grays Court Hotel, York
Chapter House Street, York YO1 7JH
This luxury boutique hotel is the oldest inhabited building in the city of York and one of the most historic buildings in England. It’s the history of this beautiful hotel which makes it one of the most unusual places to stay in Yorkshire. With the remains of a Roman gate believed to be buried on the grounds and having been owned by some of York’s most famous residents, it’s a truly fascinating place to stay.
The rooms at Grays Court are beautifully restored and decorated to complement the history of the building. Each one is uniquely elegant with luxurious fixtures and fittings such as freestanding copper baths, William VI four poster beds and monsoon showers. Most of the rooms offer beautiful views of either the neighbouring landscape gardens, the historic courtyard or York Minster.
Wainsgates Farm Huts, Roecliffe
Waingates Farm, York YO51 9NE
Wainsgate Farm is part of the Roecliffe Estate in the heart of North Yorkshire. This working farm offers a selection of shepherd’s huts, which each accommodate two guests. It’s perfect for a rural romantic getaway as there is no shortage of beautiful walks both on and off the estate.
One of our favourite huts, Pederro, is a luxurious “igloo-inspired” hut which has been fully insulated to make it warm and cosy throughout the year. In the hut, you’ll find a king-size bed and a comfortable living area. The interior of the hut is immaculately decorated and they’ve even provided some lovely little extras to make your stay even more special. Waffle robes, fluffy slippers, natural bath products and even your very own telescope for stargazing in your own secluded garden, which includes comfy rattan furniture and a fire pit.
Camp Katur, Bedale
The Camp Hill Estate, Kirklington, Bedale DL8 2LS
Camp Katur is a beautiful glamping site in the 250-acre Camp Hill Manor Estate. They have a great variety of glamping accommodation options including Safari Tents, Tipi, Hobbit Pods, Geodomes and even a 1980s retro caravan. Our favourite by far, however, have to be the incredibly futurist-looking geodomes.
Each uniquely shaped structure is nestled in the woodland and features a small decking area, a wood-burning stove and enormous bay windows from which guests can enjoy the most beautiful views of the surrounding area.
The Wensleydale Heifer, Leyburn
Main Street, West Witton, Leyburn DL8 4LS
The Wensleydale Heifer is a luxury boutique hotel, restaurant and fish bar near Leyburn in the Yorkshire Dales. Famous across the region for its exceptional food and great dining experience, the hotel is a popular choice for foodies but also one of the most unusual places to stay in Yorkshire. The Wensleydale Heifer has a number of rooms available and all are beautifully decorated with luxurious extras such as Molton Brown toiletries and Egyptian linen sheets.
Each room is unique and decorated with a specific theme. We particularly love the James Bond-themed room with its 007-inspired artwork and monochrome accessories. Their Night at the Movies room is also a great choice, particularly for fans of classic Hollywood movies.
As with all our articles of this nature, we’ll be adding to this list as and when we discover other businesses. To recommend unusual places to stay in Yorkshire or request our media pack, please email business@theyorkshirepress.co.uk
