The Owner's Guide to Greenbank Lodges

Greenbank Lodges sit on a working farm in North Yorkshire, owned and run by Joe and his family, who have farmed the land for generations. The lodges occupy Joe’s favourite part of the farm, and the idea to develop them came around five years ago, largely as a way of diversifying the farm’s income while making good use of land he has always been fond of.

The design was informed by time Joe spent travelling in Scandinavia. He was drawn to the way buildings there tend to complement their surroundings rather than compete with them, and wanted to bring something of that sensibility to North Yorkshire. That thinking is most visible in the large gable windows, which are set into the full height of each lodge and frame the views across the Yorkshire countryside in a way that feels considered rather than incidental. 

Being dog-friendly was a firm requirement from the outset. Joe regularly travels the UK with his own dogs and wanted Greenbank Lodges to be the kind of place he would want to stay himself.

More broadly, Greenbank Lodges are for people who want to properly explore the Yorkshire Dales; to spend time in a part of the country they may not have considered before. It is Joe’s hope that guests leave with a genuine appreciation for this corner of England, having discovered somewhere they might not otherwise have thought to visit.

Our perfect weekend at Greenbank begins on a Friday evening with an unhurried arrival at the lodge. After unpacking and settling in, we like to stop at a local farm shop on the way and pick up a few fresh ingredients for a simple dinner. There’s something wonderfully relaxing about cooking with local produce and enjoying a quiet meal together as the countryside begins to settle into the evening.

After dinner, we take the dogs out for a gentle stroll along the on-site walking route. It’s the perfect way to stretch our legs after the journey and soak up the peaceful surroundings. We return to the lodge for a long soak in the hot tub, listening to the sounds of the countryside and letting the stresses of the week drift away. With a full weekend ahead, an early night comes naturally, setting the tone for a relaxing and restorative stay.

Sunday is all about making the most of the Yorkshire Dales before heading home. We like to start the day with a walk straight from the lodge, or venture a little further afield to explore some of our favourite routes through the surrounding countryside. With the dogs leading the way and stunning scenery in every direction, it’s the perfect opportunity to slow down and appreciate everything this special corner of Yorkshire has to offer.

After a morning outdoors, we like to stop at Reeth Bike Centre Café for a coffee and a light bite before making our way back to Greenbank. Back at the lodge, there’s just enough time for one last soak in the hot tub, taking in the views and enjoying a final moment of relaxation before packing up.

To round off the weekend, we head to Barningham for a traditional Sunday roast at The Milbank Arms. Good food, a welcoming atmosphere, and one last taste of Yorkshire hospitality make it a fitting end to a wonderfully restorative weekend before the journey home.