Your Local Guide to Greenbank Barns

Staff Picks: The Best of Greenbank Barns & Beyond

Our team has put together a list of their favourite places to visit in the area during your stay at Greenbank Barns. Whether you’ve booked a break at Dexter, Shorthorn or the Farmhouse, there are wonderful Yorkshire towns, walks, restaurants, family-friendly activities and much more to explore nearby. Our recommendations come straight from the people who know the area best, giving you the best insider’s guide to making the most of your stay.

Discover hidden gems, local favourites, and must-see spots that will help you experience Greenbank Barns like a true local.

Meet Kate & Alex

If you’ve stayed at our lodges or cottages in Yorkshire before, you may know Kate and Alex – our wonderful customer care team who are the first to answer your calls. They know the area best and have plenty of local recommendations for things to do and see. Whether it’s a group getaway, family holiday, or a couple’s break, call us on 01748 850333 and they’re always happy to help you make the most of your stay.

At a glance

Kate's Recommendations

Kate has been part of the Holiday at Home family for over 17 years, so it’s safe to say she knows the area inside out. Kate’s go-to spots are perfect for relaxed days out with friends or a partner.

Bowes Museum – Art gallery in Barnard Castle with interesting exhibitions and on-site dining.
Raby High Force Waterfall – Spectacular waterfall in County Durham, ideal for families and dog friendly.
Grassholme Observatory – A unique opportunity to stargaze and learn more about space. Great for all ages.
Mainsgill Farmshop – Delicious homemade treats, excellent food hall and butchery.

Kate's Perfect Day Out

Start the day like Kate

Kate loves her horses, and when she’s not attending sheep shows on the weekend, you’ll find her out riding her beautiful horse through the countryside with her sister. A short drive from Greenbank Barns you'll find Hollies Riding School in Richmond offering horse riding experiences for all abilities.

Spend the day in Barnard Castle

One thing about Kate is she loves to explore and the charming town of Barnard Castle is within easy reach of Greenbank Barns. From the Bowes museum to scenic walks, independent shops and a variety of eating and drinking options this charming town is a popular spot.

Great Food & Great Company

Enjoy an evening of eating and drinking with friends at one of Kate’s go-to spots. She’s a lady of taste, so her recommendations never go amiss! After a day out, she loves heading to Hansom in Bedale, an elegant dining spot recently featured in the Michelin Guide and perfect for rounding off a relaxing afternoon in style.

At a glance

Alex's Recommendations

As a mum of two, Alex knows all the best places to keep little ones happy during your stay. Here are her top picks for family-friendly days out:

Stockeld Park – A magical adventure park with themed trails, playgrounds, and seasonal activities perfect for younger children.
Brimham Rocks – Let the kids climb, scramble, and explore this amazing natural playground of giant rock formations.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park – A bit of a drive (around 1 hour 30), but well worth it for the chance to see lions, polar bears, and more!
Daisy Doodle Paint a Pot Parlour – A lovely indoor creative activity for all ages, perfect for a rainy day.
Monk Park Farm – A hands-on farm experience where little ones can meet animals, ride tractors, and enjoy outdoor play. Alex’s daughters love it!

Alex's Perfect Day Out

A Morning Walk By Easby Abbey

Alex and her family are always on the move, so an early morning walk is a must! One of their favourites is the scenic route from Brompton Lakes to Easby Abbey, a peaceful stroll with beautiful views and plenty of space for the kids to run free. If you're up for more, you can continue the walk into Richmond, where you're rewarded with a delicious breakfast at Little Drummer Boy café, or even treat yourself to an early ice cream from The Station.

A Family Visit to Monk Park Farm

Monk Park Farm is a favourite spot for Alex and her daughters. With animal petting, tractor rides, seasonal events, and plenty of space to explore, it’s the kind of place that guarantees giggles and good memories. There’s a café on-site for a well-earned refuel, but Alex loves packing up a picnic and enjoying lunch on the grass, soaking up the countryside views spending valuable quality time with her family.

local pub for a group getaway at Greenbank Barns

Grab a Bite to Eat at The Heifer

The Heifer in Scorton is a charming, village‑green pub and is a firm favourite of Alex’s and her family. Our guests also love it here too. Expect a warm welcome, fantastic food, and a relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere that makes it perfect after a day out with the family before heading back to Greenbank Barns to unwind and recharge.

Explore the Local Area

Visit Richmond

About 10 minutes drive from Greenbank Barns you’ll find the historic market town of Richmond. Along the charming cobbled streets, Richmond offers a lovely mix of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, riverside walks, and an early Norman castle to explore!

Discover Richmond

Greenbank Barns in your words

Hear from our guests about Greenbanks Barns and their stay in the local area…

It is our second time at Shorthorn. The house is amazing - perfect for family get togethers. It truly is home from home. The walks and pubs nearby are in abundance and Richmond just a five minute drive away. We loved it so much that we’ve booked for 2026 already!

Katey - March 2025

The Farmhouse is a great house for a large family group. Tons of space, well equipped, very nicely furnished, lots of bathrooms, hot tub, barbecue, pool table, several TV’s……everything we could have wished for. The location is good, with sweeping views across the valley, and it is about a 15 minute walk down into Ravensworth, where there is an excellent pub.

Philip - July 2024

Eat like a local

Ryan's Recommendations

Known for his great taste in food and drink, Ryan brings you his top choices for food and drink in the local area…

The Bay Horse – Ravensworth, DL11 7ET
A cosy family-run country pub just down the road in Ravensworth. Locally sourced food and a welcome atmosphere.
Mainsgill Farmshop – Ravensworth, DL11 7PN
Stock up on local, fresh produce in the food hall or visit the tearoom for a hot meal or a delicious home-made treat.
Rustique – Richmond, DL10 4QB
A popular French bistro in the heart of Richmond—perfect for steak frites, wine, and candlelit dinners.
Middleton Lodge – Richmond, DL10 6NJ
Both fine dining and more relaxed options available at this beautiful country estate.
The Black Bull – Moulton, DL10 6QJ
A beautiful country pub with character, open fires, and locally sourced seasonal dishes.

More Recomendations

Dog Friendly Eateries

Ringo's Recommendations

Meet Ringo, Ryan’s lively and lovable pup who knows all the best dog-friendly spots around Brompton Lakes and in North Yorkshire.

Many pubs and cafés in the Richmond area are dog-friendly, especially in outdoor seating areas. It’s always a good idea to call ahead if you plan to eat inside.

Here’s Ringo’s Favourites

The Kings Head Hotel, Richmond, DL10 4HS
The Fox Hole, Piercebridge, DL2 3SJ
The George and Dragon, Hudswell, DL11 6BL

And many more…

Dog Friendly Eateries Dog Friendly Lodges

Venture Further Afield

As well as being close to plenty of charming market towns, Greenbank Barns is also within an hour’s drive of some of the North’s most beautiful and historic destinations.

Head north to Barnard Castle, known for its castle ruins and the impressive Bowes Museum, or to Durham, with its striking UNESCO-listed cathedral and historic charm. To the south, explore the medieval streets of York, or unwind in Harrogate, a stylish spa town famous for its gardens, boutiques, and Bettys Tea Room.

Craving sea air? The Yorkshire Coast is within easy reach- wander the clifftops of Whitby or enjoy the nostalgic charm of Saltburn-by-the-Sea with its pier and cliff tramway.

Take A Closer Look...

If you’re loving what you see in the area, why not take another peek at the three stunning holiday homes at Greenbank Barns, sleeping up to 28 guests in total. These properties can be booked separately, each sleeping between 8-10 guests, or together for the ultimate group getaway or celebration!

Added to favourites!

Near Richmond, North Yorkshire

Dexter

Dog Friendly

A stunning five-bedroom barn conversion with spacious and light living areas, fantastic interiors, and a garden hot tub. Receiving national press for its style and...

3 nights from

£1,398 - £2,569

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Near Richmond, North Yorkshire

The Farmhouse

Dog Friendly

With five-star reviews, enjoy stylish interiors, large bedrooms and luxe bathrooms, a log burner, and a games room with a bar at The Farmhouse. Lovely...

3 nights from

£1,831 - £2,660

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Near Richmond, North Yorkshire

Shorthorn

Dog Friendly

One of three large holiday homes at Greenbank Barns, Shorthorn is perfect for a celebration or family holiday, sleeping up to 8 guests. Enjoy stunning...

3 nights from

£1,321 - £2,317

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