Cabins in yorkshire

Your Local Guide to Sun Hill

Staff Picks: From Those Who Know Sun Hill Best

The team at Sun Hill has put together a list of their favourite places to visit in the area during your stay at Sun Hill Farm. These recommendations come straight from the people who know the area best, giving you the best insider’s guide to making the most of your time here.

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

Meet Ann & Carly

If you’ve stayed at Sun Hill before, you may have already met Ann and Carly, the friendly team at Sun Hill based on-site who are always happy to answer any queries during your stay. They’re full of brilliant local recommendations for the best places to visit and things to do in the area.

Sun Hill Lodges
At a Glance

Ann's Recommendation

Meet Ann Duffield, the owner of Sun Hill Farm, who transformed part of her racehorse training yard into luxury log cabins and stunning countryside cottages. Passionate about Yorkshire’s countryside, she’s created a stylish retreat with sweeping views of Wensleydale, and recommends day trips within an hour to explore even more of the region.

  • Brimham Rocks – Explore unique rock formations on a walk that’s both scenic and a little adventurous, perfect for all ages.

  • Visit Harrogate – A lively spa town famed for its elegant gardens, boutique shopping, and the iconic Bettys Café Tea Rooms.

  • Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal – A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring dramatic monastic ruins set within stunning water gardens and expansive parkland.

Ann's Perfect Day Out

Sun Hill Lodges

Breakfast with a view

Ann loves welcoming guests to Sun Hill Lodges and savours a peaceful start to the day. For a truly memorable morning, follow her tip and enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the stunning views over the paddocks, rolling Yorkshire Dales hills, and beyond.

harrogate

Visit Harrogate

Just a short drive from Sun Hill Lodges, Harrogate is a vibrant spa town renowned for its elegant gardens, historic architecture, and boutique shopping. Be sure to treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea at the famous Bettys Café Tea Rooms.

local pub for a group getaway at Greenbank Barns

Local Flavours

Ann recommends dining at The Wensleydale Heifer, just a short drive from Sun Hill Lodges. Known for its exquisite dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, it’s the perfect way to relax and end your day before returning to your luxury lodge.

Log cabins with hot tubs
At A Glace

Carly's Recommendations

Local to the area, Carly knows all the best spots nearby and is always happy to share her recommendations. Whether it’s a favourite walk or a hidden gem in Leyburn, Carly’s tips help guests make the most of their stay.

  • Thorp Perrow Arboretum – Wander through one of the UK’s finest arboretums, featuring beautiful gardens and a fascinating bird of prey centre.

  • Aysgarth & Harmby Waterfalls – Discover two of the Yorkshire Dales’ most picturesque waterfalls, ideal for scenic walks and family adventures.

  • The Forbidden Corner – A whimsical labyrinth of tunnels, follies, and hidden surprises, offering a magical day out for visitors of all ages.

Carly's Perfect Day Out

Explore Yorkshire

Kickstart your day

Carly loves starting her mornings with a bit of adventure. She’s often up early, heading down to the nearby waterfalls before most people are awake. For a fresh start to your day enjoy a breakfast on the go, admiring the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.

Yorkshire Holiday Cottages

Visit Thorp Perrow

One of Carly’s favourite spots in the Yorkshire Dales, Thorp Perrow Arboretum is perfect for a peaceful stroll. She recommends wandering through the beautifully landscaped gardens, exploring the bird of prey centre, and taking in the variety of trees and plants.

indian dining

Carly's Comforts

After a busy day, Carly loves to unwind with the comforts of home and relaxation. Keep an eye out, Pradeep’s Curry's will soon be back at Sun Hill Lodges, ready to bring their delicious flavours straight to your lodge or cottage at Sun Hill Farm.

Explore the Local Area

Visit Leyburn

 

Leyburn in your words

What our guests say about discovering Leyburn and the nearby areas during their stay at Sun Hill.

Our weekend at Sun Hill was brilliant. We booked a stable tour to see the horses training, which was such a unique experience, and then spent the afternoon exploring the quaint shops and tearooms in Leyburn.
Debra | Sun Hill Guest - April 2025
Our family of four stayed at Sun Hill and loved how much there was to do nearby. We visited The Forbidden Corner which the kids absolutely adored. Afterwards we stopped in Leyburn for ice cream and a wander around the market.
Kerry | Sun Hill Guest - August 2025
holiday at home
Eat Like A Local

Ryan's Top Picks

Ryan lives just a stone’s throw from Leyburn in Bedale. Known for his great taste in food and drink, he’s rounded up his top local spots – perfect for everything from laid-back lunches to delicious evening meals.

  • The Wensleydale Heifer– Leyburn, DL8 4LS
    A charming boutique hotel known for its exquisite dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients, including lobster and steak, all served in a stylish setting.

  • The Sandpiper Inn – Leyburn, DL8 5AT
    A stylish gastropub offering a seasonal menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients providing a cosy and inviting atmosphere for lunch or dinner.

  • The Bolton Arms– Leyburn, DL8 5BW
    A traditional village pub known for its friendly service and hearty meals. The menu features classic pub fare, including generous portions and local ales.

  • The Wyvill Arms– Leyburn, DL8 5LH
    An 18th-century farmhouse turned pub, hotel, and restaurant offering a menu of locally sourced produce.

  • Hansom– Bedale, DL8 1AF
    A Michelin Guide-listed restaurant offering seasonal tasting menus crafted by award-winning chef Ruth Hansom.

dog friendly log cabins

Gunners Go To Places

Meet Gunner, Ann’s energetic and lovable dog who knows all the best dog-friendly spots around Sun Hill Lodges and the wider Leyburn area.

Many pubs and cafés nearby welcome four-legged friends, especially in outdoor seating areas. It’s always a good idea to call ahead if you plan to dine inside with your pup.

Here’s Gunner’s Favourites

  • The Bolton Arms – Leyburn, DL8 5BW
    Dogs are welcome, and staff often offer treats at the bar.

  • The Kings Head Hotel – Leyburn, DL8 4HS
     Dogs are welcome, making it a great spot to unwind with your pet.

  • The Pheasant Inn – Leyburn, DL8 5LG
    The pub has a cosy interior and a welcoming outdoor seating area for dogs

And many more…

York Minster

Venture Further Afield

As well as being close to plenty of charming market towns, Sun Hill 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.

Fancy A Closer Look?

Explore Sun Hill

If you’re loving what you see in the area, why not take another peek at our collection of luxury lodges and cottages on site at Sun Hill Lodges.

Whether you’re planning ahead or just curious, our stunning Leyburn Lodges are ready to welcome you whenever you’re ready.