Family Days Out Around Catgill That Everyone Will Love

If you are planning a family holiday in the heart of Yorkshire, you will quickly realise just how much there is to do around Catgill. There are rivers and woodland to explore, castles to climb, scenic views, plenty of good food for the family and a beautiful place to come back to at the end of the day. Whether that is relaxing in your cosy glamping pod, unwinding beside the fire pit, or simply enjoying the peace and countryside views!

We have spent countless days exploring the beautiful area with family and friends, and it never gets old. Whether you are here for a short break or enjoying a longer escape, there is something for everyone!

Here are some of our favourite family adventures, all within a short drive of Catgill Farm.

Exploring Bolton Abbey

Bolton Abbey itself is one of the most beautiful sites in the Yorkshire Dales, and it is perfect for families.

The stepping stones across the River Wharfe are always a highlight. Children love hopping from stone to stone. On warmer days, families sit along the riverbank, paddling and enjoying a picnic. There is a lot of space to spread out, so it never feels cramped.

There are several easy walking routes, too. The Riverside Walk is ideal if you have little legs with you. It is mostly flat and follows the river, with plenty of spots to stop and take in those amazing views. If you fancy something slightly more adventurous, the woodland trails offer a bit more challenge while still being manageable for children.

It is one of those places where you can spend a whole day in the great outdoors.

The Forbidden Corner

If you want something completely different, head over to the Forbidden Corner near Middleham. Located about an hour’s drive away, the place offers a unique experience and is set to welcome visitors for the season starting March 28th.

The Forbidden Corner is a maze of tunnels, towers, secret doors and unexpected surprises. It is designed to confuse and delight in equal measure. One minute you are walking through a peaceful garden, the next you are squeezing through a hidden passageway or facing a stone face that suddenly sprays water.

It suits children aged five and up, but plenty of adults get just as competitive trying to find every hidden route. It is one of those local attractions that families talk about long after they have gone home.

Hesketh Farm Park

If your family loves animals, Hesketh Farm Park is a lovely way to spend a few hours. And it’s just next door to Catgill Farm, making it a perfect option if you want to pop out without the car. Children can meet goats, alpacas, sheep, and rabbits, and there are indoor and outdoor play areas if the weather turns. It is relaxed and friendly rather than overwhelming, which makes it perfect for younger children.

Pair it with a short walk nearby, and you have a full, easy-going day out!

Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

There is something timeless about a steam train ride. The Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway runs through the countryside with rolling hills and classic Yorkshire views all around.

For many children, this is their first experience of a traditional steam engine. Watching the engine pull into the station, a cloud of steam trailing behind, is always exciting. The journey itself is gentle and scenic, making it a calm break in between busier activities.

Bring snacks, sit back, and enjoy the countryside views rolling past the window. It’s also a perfect rainy day activity, as you can get a return ticket, hop off to the cafe at the Bolton Abbey station, and get back on with your snacks ready for the return journey.

Aysgarth Falls

Aysgarth Falls is another family favourite within the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The series of waterfalls is easily accessible, and the paths are well-maintained.

It is a short walk from the car park to the main viewing points, so you do not need to commit to a full hike. Children love climbing over rocks and spotting fish in the shallows. On a bright day, the water sparkles and the surrounding woodland feels magical.

It is one of the most beautiful places in the national parks and is well worth the short drive.

Skipton Castle and Woods

Skipton is often called the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, and it is brilliant for a family day out.

Skipton Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. Children can explore towers, winding staircases, and the old banqueting hall. It is hands-on enough to keep them interested while still being genuinely fascinating for adults.

Afterwards, take a wander through Skipton Woods. The paths are peaceful, shaded and ideal for a relaxed stroll. Finish the day in the town centre with good food from one of the many family-friendly cafés or country pubs.

Parcevall Hall Gardens

If you are looking for somewhere a little calmer, Parcevall Hall Gardens is a hidden gem. It is less busy than some of the bigger attractions but still offers beautiful countryside views and open outdoor spaces.

Children can run along the lawns while adults enjoy the carefully kept gardens and quiet atmosphere. It is especially lovely in spring and summer when everything is in bloom.

Malham Cove and Gordale Scar

For families who enjoy a bit more adventure, Malham Cove is unforgettable. Older children will love the climb up the steps, and the view at the top is worth every bit of effort.

Nearby Gordale Scar adds even more drama, with towering cliffs and a stream running through the valley. It is a fantastic experience for active families who want to see the wilder side of the Yorkshire Dales.

Making the Most of Your Stay

After a busy day exploring, there is nothing better than returning to your luxury glamping pod with a private hot tub waiting for you.

Luxury glamping has become hugely popular for good reason. Staying in timber pods or a cosy glamping pod gives you that connection to the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Outdoor hot tubs are a welcome treat once the children are in bed, and gathering around a fire pit in the evening is often the moment everyone remembers most.

For some, it is their first glamping experience. For others, it has become a yearly tradition. Either way, our cosy pods and surrounding area transform a simple family holiday into something a bit more special!

Couples often discover it is perfect for romantic escapes and breaks in the countryside. The peaceful setting, the countryside views, and the sense of space make it feel far removed from everyday life.

Why Bolton Abbey Is the Perfect Location

What makes this area stand out is how easy everything feels. You are surrounded by natural beauty, yet most attractions are only a short drive away. There are plenty of local attractions to keep children entertained, but also quiet corners if you just want to slow down.

It is the heart of Yorkshire at its best. Wide skies, rolling hills, good food, friendly faces and outdoor spaces that seem to go on forever.

Whether you are planning a short break packed with family adventures or a slower family holiday with time to breathe, Bolton Abbey and the surrounding Yorkshire Dales offer something genuinely special.

It is not just a place you visit. It is a place you experience. And once you have, you will almost certainly want to come back!