The Calf Pens

You arrive at one step into The Calf Pens and find yourself in an open living and dining room warmed by a wood-burning stove. This converted farmstead stands on working land near Ripon, surrounded by the sort of countryside that draws people to North Yorkshire. The ground floor holds both bedrooms—one with a zip-and-link double, the other with two singles—plus a shower room and a kitchen equipped to cook from scratch: electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, dishwasher and washing machine all there. Bed linen is provided, and there's Wi-Fi throughout. A lawned garden with patio and furniture sits outside, with private parking for two cars on site.

The location works for walkers: Wensleydale spreads around you with riverside paths within reach, and the land qualifies as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Masham lies a mile and a half away, home to craft shops, tea-rooms, two breweries with visitor centres, and restaurants serving local food. Middleham—known for racehorses and its medieval castle—is a short drive, as are the numerous abbeys and castles scattered through the region. Harrogate, Ripon, York and the North York Moors National Park are all accessible for a day out. The property is no-smoking. Cots and highchairs are available on request.