luxury large holiday cottages yorkshire

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.

holiday at home
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 and family.

  • Bowes Museum – Art gallery in Barnard Castle with interesting exhibitions and on-site dining.
  • Middleton Lodge – Treat yourself to a stunning day spa retreat at this luxury country house.
  • 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 Top Picks

UK Holiday Homes

The ultimate in relaxation

Whether its a retreat with friends or a big celebration, a group getaway at Greenbank Barns is not complete without an indulgent beauty treatment from one of our experienced beauty therapists. The best bit... you won't have to leave the comfort of your luxury holiday home, our team of beauty therapists will come to you!

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cottage near Barnard Castle

A day out 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.

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Group accommodation

Great Food & Great Company

Sleeping up to 28 guests means Greenbank Barns is ideal for group holidays, family holidays or celebrations with plenty of space to gather in comfort and celebrate in style. If you want to venture out and discover the many eating and dining options in the local area, check out our handy guide to some of our favourite spots in North Yorkshire.

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holiday at home
At a glance

Charlotte's recommendations

The spacious accommodation for up to 28 guests makes Greenbank Barns a wonderful holiday home in which to gather the wider family for quality time. The three luxury properties can be booked separately or together, offering you the flexibility to accommodate the whole family however suits you best.

And the local area doesn’t disappoint! North Yorkshire offers a wide range of fun activities and experiences for an unforgettable family break. Charlotte, Director of Holiday at Home, knows the area well and brings you her favourite picks for days out.

  • 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.

Charlotte's Top Picks

oyster and olive private dine in

Private Dining

Take a break from cooking and truly relax with a private dining experience. We've worked with our chefs for years and the reviews from our guests are exceptional. Whether its a special occasion or just a treat, they will prepare a delicious meal and serve you in the comfort of your holiday home while you sit back and take it easy.

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monk park farm thirsk

A Family Visit to Monk Park Farm

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 or pack a picnic and enjoying lunch on the grass, soaking up the countryside views..

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Pubs in yorkshire

Grab a Bite to Eat at The Bay Horse

The Bay Horse in Ravensworth is a short walk from Greenbank Barns and is a charming, village pub with a welcoming atmosphere. Expect simple, quality food and a relaxed, dog-friendly atmosphere that makes it perfect after a day out in the local area.

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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!

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
holiday at home
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.
Dog friendly cottages in North Yorkshire
Dog Friendly Pubs & Cafes

Our Recommendations

North Yorkshire is a dream destination to visit with dogs and, of course, dogs are always welcome at Greenbank Barns! You’ll find a huge choice of walks from your doorstep, miles of countryside to explore and many of the pubs and cafes are dog-friendly too, especially in outdoor seating areas. It’s always a good idea to call ahead if you plan to eat inside.

Here’s a few of our favourites…

 

harrogate

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 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!