Aerial view of Lime Kiln holiday properties in North Yorkshire

Your Local Guide to Lime Kiln

Local Gems to Lime Kiln

Discover the best of Lime Kiln, from hidden gems to must-see spots. Make the most of your stay at Lime Kiln with a little help from our team.

Whether you’re staying at Kingfisher or Dragonfly, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite places to eat, explore, and enjoy nearby. From beautiful Yorkshire towns and scenic walks to fantastic restaurants and family-friendly days out, there’s plenty to discover. Handpicked by the people who know the area best, think of it as your insider’s guide to exploring this special corner of Yorkshire.

Kingfisher back garden
At a glance

Recommendations

 

  • Bowes Museum – Art gallery in Barnard Castle with interesting exhibitions and on-site dining.
  • Grassholme Observatory – A unique opportunity to stargaze and learn more about space. Great for all ages.
  • Mainsgill Farmshop – Great local produce and just a few minutes’ drive from Lime Kiln.
  • The Little Drummer Boy Tearoom – Delicious breakfast, lunches, and homemade bakes in Richmond.

Top Food Favourites

Pubs in yorkshire

The Fox Hole

Nestled in the historic Roman village of Piercebridge, The Fox Hole is a welcoming country pub combining traditional charm with stylish, contemporary touches.

yorkshire escapes

Stable Hearth Neapolitan Pizzeria

Winner of England's Best Pizzeria 2024. Stone baked homemade pizza, chunky chips and tiramisu, what more could you ask for. Situated within Darlington this restaurant is one of the owners favourite.

Group of guests with food and drink around a seating area

The Coach House, Middleton Lodge

For a more relaxed and rustic dining experience we recommend The Coach House at Middleton Lodge, with a wide range of menus from Breakfast to Dinner.

Take a closer look

At a glance

Guest recommendations

The local area doesn’t disappoint! North Yorkshire offers a wide range of fun activities and experiences for an unforgettable family break. Take inspiration from recommendations shared by guests who have stayed with us.

  • Forbidden Corner – Always a big hit with kids, this unique attraction has plenty of surprises to keep everyone entertained.
  • Adrenalin– Popular outdoor activity and adventure centre close to Richmond.
  • Raby High Force Waterfall – Spectacular waterfall in County Durham with dog-friendly walks.
  • Thorp Perrow – Beautiful gardens to explore alongside a fascinating bird of prey centre.

Ellerton Park

Ellerton Lake is 60 acres of clean, freshwater surrounded by open countryside. Enjoy watersports with the whole family such as paddle boarding, canoeing or kayaking. It is also great for anyone who enjoys open water swimming.

Mainsgill Farmshop

Mainsgill Farm Shop

A firm local favourite, Mainsgill Farm Shop is well worth a visit during your stay. Browse the fantastic selection of local produce and homemade treats, stop for something delicious in the tearoom, and don’t miss the chance to meet the farm’s much-loved animals. It’s an easy and enjoyable day out for the whole family.

Easby abbey

Easby Abbey Loop

For a lovely walk close to Richmond, the Easby Abbey Loop is a wonderful way to spend a few hours outdoors. Follow scenic riverside paths through the Yorkshire countryside before reaching the beautiful ruins of Easby Abbey, with plenty of picturesque spots to stop and take in the views along the way. Don't miss the cafe for their famous smash burgers.

Lime Kiln in your words

Feefo logo

Wow wow wow this is another amazing property to stay , it is so spacious and well decorated, every thing you will need for a stay is here. It is the perfect place to host family celebrations and we have had an amazing stay! We didn’t want to leave and we can’t wait to go back and stay thank you once again.
Sharon I Dragonfly Guest - November 2025
What a beautiful setting and fabulous location. The house is lovely with all the amenities to enjoy a luxurious week away with friends. The layout is spacious, beautifully decorated and thoughtfully designed. Chefs Paul and Dennis are fabulous . We have been using Holiday at Home regularly for over 10 years and we are never disappointed. Can’t wait for our next visit - we’ve already booked.
Sarah I Kingfisher Guest - August 2026
Explore Richmond

Richmond offers a lovely mix of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, riverside walks, and an early Norman castle to explore!

Dog Friendly Pubs & Walks

Our Recommendations

North Yorkshire is a wonderful place to explore with your four-legged friends, and dogs are always welcome at Lime Kiln. With beautiful countryside, scenic walks and plenty of places to discover nearby, there’s no shortage of adventures to enjoy together. Many local pubs and cafés are dog-friendly too, particularly in their outdoor seating areas, although we’d always recommend checking ahead if you’re planning to eat inside.

Here’s a few of our favourites…

 

Wander Through Yorkshire

Begin in the historic market town before following the banks of the River Swale along picturesque woodland paths and riverside trails. The route passes waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and peaceful stretches of countryside that are particularly beautiful throughout spring and autumn.

As you return to town, explore the cobbled market square and admire the impressive Richmond Castle, which overlooks the surrounding landscape.

With plenty of dog-friendly cafés and pubs nearby, this walk combines stunning scenery, local history, and a great choice of places to stop for lunch.

For those looking to experience the very best of the Yorkshire Dales, this spectacular circular walk from Reeth is not to be missed.

Starting in the heart of Swaledale, the route follows a network of footpaths across open moorland, rolling hills, traditional stone barns, and dry-stone walled fields. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views across one of Yorkshire’s most iconic landscapes.

The walk passes through quiet countryside and picturesque villages, offering countless opportunities to pause and take in the scenery. Keep an eye out for sheep grazing on the hillsides and red kites soaring overhead.

After completing the route, reward yourself with a well-earned coffee and homemade cake in Reeth before returning to the comfort of your lodge and a relaxing soak in the hot tub.

This is the perfect day out for keen walkers and adventurous dogs who love exploring the great outdoors.

A luxury private dining experience from Georgie Snowdon, one of our fantastic partner chefs.

Elevate Your Stay

Enhance your stay at Lime Kiln with one of our extra options. Whether you are celebrating a birthday or finally have the family together, we want to make sure you have everything to make it special.

Private Dining – Hire a private chef to cook you a delicious restaurant-quality meal, all from the comfort of your holiday cottage.

Beauty Treatments – Book a beauty therapist to help you relax and rejuvenate. This is also a great gift.

Yoga – Try something different with your friends by booking in for a morning yoga class before heading out for breakfast.

 

Ripon North Yorkshire

Venture Further Afield

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

Head north to Barnard Castle 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.

One Last Look...

Now you know what to do when you get here, its time to book your stay.