How to Choose Between a Pod, Bell Tent or Camping Pitch at Catgill Farm
If you’ve been dreaming of a break in the countryside – rolling hills, scenic views and the unbeatable fresh Yorkshire air – Catgill Farm in the heart of Yorkshire is the perfect place for your escape.
We’re nestled right on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, less than a10-minute drive from the stunning 12th century Bolton Abbey, and we have three options for your glamping break:
- Luxury timber pods
- Cosy bell tents
- Spacious camping pitches
You can pick your favourite option to experience the great outdoors in your own way, whether that’s soaking in a private hot tub with a view, lighting a camp fire beneath the stars, or watching the sunrise with your morning coffee outside your tent.
If you just can’t decide which is right for you, we’ve put together a bit more information with a few insider tips too. (And we can’t tell you which one we’d pick, it’s like choosing a favourite child!)
Luxury Glamping Pods
For anyone who loves the great outdoors but wants all the comforts of home, the glamping pods at Catgill Farm strike the perfect balance between comfort and countryside. Built from timber and beautifully finished, every pod is fully insulated and features a double bed, sofa bed and hidden bunk beds for families, and ensuite shower room. But what really wins everyone over is that every single pod has its own private hot tub on your own private patio with comfy chairs, and a fire pit with a BBQ and pizza oven!
All pods enjoy panoramic views across the valley, giving you a peaceful location to relax in any time of year. They sleep up to six people and are ideal for romantic getaways, family breaks or a relaxing stay with friends.
The Unique Pods at Catgill Farm
Catgill isn’t just any glamping site, and these aren’t just standard wooden glamping pods! We’re known for our beautifully themed pods, and each one of them has something a little special to offer for a unique experience:
- Super-Premium Pods – These pods feature a super-unique Perspex stargazing dome offering breathtaking views across the valley. These are perfect for a romantic getaway or (hint hint!) a proposal idea!
- The Swiss Ski Station Pod – Inspired by alpine charm, this pod includes ski-themed décor, cosy throws and the feel of a mountain lodge, all while overlooking the rolling Yorkshire hills. We’ve even got an après-ski seating area, a real gondola seat ski lift and a swing, plus a fondue package!
- Luxury Timber Pods – Spacious, comfortable and with plenty of room for up to six, these are perfect for families who want an easy base for outdoor adventures.
- Dog-Friendly Pods – Because furry friends deserve holidays too. Catgill’s three dog friendly pods welcome well-behaved dogs, with walking trails right from your doorstep and outdoor space for them to stretch their legs. We also throw in a few extras for them like bowls, treats and cosy blankets.
Tip: Don’t forget your swimwear! The private hot tubs are perfect for stargazing under the dark skies, especially with a pizza from the on-site pizza shack, Cat’s Kitchen, and a glass of something cold. Or if you’d prefer to make your own, you can add on a DIY pizza kit for just £10!
“I think that Catgill Farm was the best Glamping experience of my life. I just felt like I entered a magical forest with cute little hobbit houses in the middle of a hill.”
– Paula R
Bell Tents for a Classic Glamping Experience
If you like the idea of camping but prefer to skip the setup, the bell tents at Catgill offer all the atmosphere of sleeping under canvas with plenty of luxury touches. Each tent is permanently pitched for the season, fully furnished with real beds, soft bedding, lighting, rugs and seating. You’ll also find a picnic bench and camp fire area outside for cosy evenings under the stars.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Catgill stay without the hot tub! Our bell tents also include a wood-fired hot tub beside the fire pit with pizza oven and BBQ.
These tents are perfect for couples, families or small groups who want the charm of traditional camping with the comfort of a boutique stay. Every bell tent looks out over the valley, so you can wake up to fresh air, peaceful surroundings and the sound of birdsong.
Tip: Pack an extra blanket and enjoy a stargazing evening – the Yorkshire skies here are some of the clearest you’ll find, and you can even spot the Milky Way on a clear night!
Traditional Camping Pitches
For those who prefer a true back-to-nature experience, Catgill’s spacious site offers some of the most scenic camping pitches in the Yorkshire Dales. You bring your own tent, giving you complete flexibility to create your perfect setup. There’s easy access to the facilities, space for cooking over a camp fire, and a peaceful location surrounded by beautiful countryside.
Our camping pitches are also suitable for small campervans (up to 5.4m), and guests say it’s the perfect place to pitch up at a quiet site.
This is camping the way it should be – simple, sociable and full of fresh air. Families love the freedom of the site, and with local attractions like Bolton Abbey, the North York Moors, and the Yorkshire Coast all within a short drive, it’s a great base for exploring North Yorkshire.
Tip: Arrive early to take advantage of the on-site facilities as well as the surrounding countryside!
“Quite possibly the best campsite I’ve ever stayed at! The camping field was brilliant and the toilet facilities were sooo nice – really clean.”
– Kristian
What’s Included
To help you compare, here’s a quick overview of what you’ll find in each accommodation type at Catgill Farm:
| Feature | Luxury Pods | Bell Tents | Camping Pitches |
| Sleeps | Up to 6 | Up to 4 | Varies |
| Bed type | Double bed, sofa bed and bunk bed | Double bed and 2 futon beds | Bring your own |
| Ensuite shower room | Yes | Semi-private toilet & shower pod | Shared facilities |
| Private hot tub | Yes | Yes | No |
| Heating | Yes | Log burner and oil heater | N/A |
| Cooking facilities | Outdoor fire pit with BBQ and pizza ovens | Outdoor fire pit with BBQ and pizza ovens | Bring your own stove |
| Private patio with comfy chairs | Yes | Yes | Your setup |
| Fire pit area | Yes | Yes | Yes (designated spots) |
| Dog friendly | Selected pods | No | Yes |
| Views | Panoramic valley views | Panoramic valley views | Open countryside |
| Furnished & ready on arrival | Fully furnished | Fully furnished | Bring your own |
| Open season | All year round | April to end of October | April to end of October |
| Best for | Comfort and convenience | Charm and atmosphere | Freedom and adventure |
Choosing Your Perfect Stay
Every type of accommodation at Catgill Farm has its own charm.
- Choose a luxury pod if you want the perfect combination of comfort and countryside, a private hot tub, and a little touch of indulgence.
- Go for a bell tent if you want a glamping experience that feels authentic, romantic and completely hassle-free (and also has a hot tub!)
- Pick a camping pitch if you’re happiest setting up your own tent, cooking over a fire pit and breathing in that fresh Yorkshire air.
Why Guests Love Catgill Farm
Catgill Farm has earned its reputation as one of the best campgrounds and glamping accommodations in Yorkshire for a reason. It’s a hidden gem in the Yorkshire Dales National Park with easy access to local attractions, welcoming hosts and a whole lot of character. Whether it’s the giant viewing swing that makes for the perfect photo moment in our Swiss Ski Station pod, the smell of wood smoke from the fire pits, the views from the front of the pod, or the friendly atmosphere that greets you from the moment you arrive where nothing is too much trouble, there’s something about Catgill that keeps guests coming back.
The peaceful location, magnificent views and sense of space make it a great place for outdoor adventures or simply doing nothing at all. Some visitors mention how they came for a weekend and ended up booking a second visit before they’d even left – and with good reason!
“From the lovely welcome we received, to the furnishing of the pod and the amenities at the Farm….we can’t fault it!”
– Noelle M
Frequently Asked Questions about Glamping at Catgill Farm
Are the glamping pods dog friendly?
Yes, several of our friendly pods welcome well-behaved dogs, so your furry friends can join in the adventure. With plenty of open space and walking trails right from your door, it’s a great countryside escape for the whole family.
Is there an ensuite bathroom in the bell tents?
The bell tents don’t have their own en-suite shower rooms, but the semi-private toilet and shower pod are very nearby!
What’s included in the glamping pods?
Every pod includes everything you need for a perfect relaxing stay in the heart of North Yorkshire: a double bed, sofa bed, ensuite shower room, private patio with wood-fired hot tub, BBQ, fire pit and panoramic valley views.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food to cook over your fire pit or BBQ. Many guests also love grabbing dinner from the on-site Cat’s Kitchen, which serves fresh stone-baked pizzas straight from the oven between March and November. We also offer DIY pizza kits, BBQ boxes, afternoon teas and breakfast boxes that are delivered to your pod ready for your arrival.
Are the camping pitches suitable for families?
Absolutely. The spacious site layout means there’s plenty of room for larger tents and groups, and the location is ideal for families looking to explore the Yorkshire Dales or enjoy time outdoors together.
How far is Catgill from Bolton Abbey?
Catgill Farm is just a 10 minute walk from Bolton Abbey, one of North Yorkshire’s most beautiful local attractions. The North York Moors, the Vale of Pickering and the Yorkshire Coast are also within easy access for day trips.
When is the best time of year to visit?
Every season has its charm. Spring and summer are ideal for bell tents and camping, while the pods – with their heating and hot tubs – make a cosy getaway all year round.
Whichever you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, close to some of North Yorkshire’s best outdoor adventures, and guaranteed a warm welcome. Catgill is the kind of place that turns a short break into an unforgettable experience, a peaceful corner of Yorkshire you’ll want to return to again and again.
By the way, did we mention we have alpacas too?
