The story of Catgill is that of profound diversification and family heritage. Since 2014, couple Oliver and Cat Barker, guided by the wisdom of Oliver’s grandfather Ken, have breathed new life into a 60-year-old North Yorkshire dairy farm while raising a family. The humble beginnings of a simple campsite within the Bolton Abbey estate have flourished to such an extent that the land is now home to a series of high-end glamping pods. It’s not really camping, it’s more like staying in your own private boutique lodge while being one with nature.
The reception At the entrance to Catgill Farm is a pair of vintage milk churns sitting on a stand built into the farm boundary wall. Next to them is a sign paying tribute to Ken Barker, the man who worked the land long before the term “glamping” joined the local lexicon (fun fact: the word only appeared in the Oxford English Dictionary in 2016). A nearby sign invites you to imagine the early mornings and the courage it took to move milk from the udder to the community – a fundamental reminder that, while you may be there to relax, this is a land that has always been defined by honest toil.
We head towards the farm where signage clearly indicates where to register. Today the old milking parlor serves as an elegant reception and, before we know it, we are being transported up the hillside, with our luggage, to our accommodation. No trudging through muddy fields with a wheelbarrow in Catgill!
Housing We receive a personal introduction to The Stag, one of the site’s Luxury Timber Pods.
Architecturally, it’s a marvel of space efficiency, somehow managing to accommodate a plush double bed, built-in rear bunks if you’re traveling with family, and even a sofa bed, all without ever feeling crowded.
And it doesn’t stop there. There is a surprisingly sturdy kitchen area, including a two-burner electric hob, microwave and even a popcorn pan for watching late-night movies on the wall-mounted TV, as well as an indoor dining area. There are thoughtful touches such as dedicated spa ‘glasses’ (more on the spa and outdoor space shortly) and a proper coffee machine for that essential morning kick.
The interior design strikes a balance between ‘scandi-chic’ and ‘country warmth’ and, with the modules being exceptionally well insulated and supported by a radiator, heated towel rail and fan heater, you can ensure that the ‘great outdoors’ remains strictly outdoors, even during the wildest Yorkshire weather.
The en suite bathroom is a clean, modern affair, comprising a powerful shower, a sink with a heated mirror and a toilet. In a nod to the farm’s sustainable ethos (over 300 trees and 500m of traditional hedgerow have been planted on site), the toiletries are from Yorkshire-based refillable brand Miniml, designed to eliminate single-use plastics.
The exterior is where the pod truly thrives. The entrance is flanked by wooden lounge chairs and beyond is a patio with a fire pit – which doubles as a pizza oven – surrounded by carved wooden “mushroom” stools. And let’s not forget the wood-fired hot tub, perfect for a hot soak during the day or for observe the stars at night.
Le Cerf is also one of three dog-friendly pods (the others being Le Faisan and Le Canard) and therefore has a walled garden – a vast sanctuary where dogs can roam in complete safety.
The facilities Catgill has managed to create a mini-village atmosphere. Reception doubles as a well-stocked shop and, in season, there is a café and pizzeria.
For those with a penchant for the quirky, the resident alpacas provide a delightful focal point, while a dedicated play and dog walking area allows every member of the family to make a comeback.
Everything you need to plan your trip in 2026 The location Geography is Catgill’s greatest asset. Each pod faces east, meaning you are woken not by an alarm, but by the gradual, golden sunrise rising over the Dales. Situated in the Yorkshire Dales National Park Dark Sky Reserve, the nighttime views are just as spectacular on a clear day.
For the restless, the options are limitless. I ran from the accommodation to Embsay Crag and was rewarded with some stunning panoramic views on what turned out to be a glorious spring day.
The proximity to Bolton Abbey and Skipton means you’re never far from a bit of history or a high-quality pint. Popular pubs include The Devonshire Arms in Bolton Abbey and The Fleece in Addingham, while sugar lovers will want to stop at Tea on the Green and Love Brownie Barn in Barden.
For walks, you can scan a QR code in the pod’s built-in manual, to access maps of the Barden Moor loop or the iconic Strid River Wharfe walk, among others.
Other Nice Touches There’s no shortage of extra special touches that take a stay at Catgill Farm from “good” to “memorable.” Fresh milk in the fridge and a few chocolate brownies on arrival set a welcoming tone.
And dogs are included with their own treats too!
Binoculars and a library of books (on birds, insects, etc.) provide the perfect opportunity to connect with the environment, while at the same time the Ultimate Ears portable speaker allows you to completely disconnect if that’s what you prefer.
Firewood and kindling are also provided. For the complete rustic experience, DIY Farmhouse Pizza Kits are an absolute must-have. All the work is done for you: just let the dough sit at room temperature, roll it out, and add your toppings. and put it in your fire oven.
The cost Although prices fluctuate depending on the season and the specific pod, Catgill sits firmly in the ‘accessible luxury’ category, with nightly rates generally ranging between £190 and £275.
The best piece The “best” part of Catgill is the paradoxical feeling of comfortable isolation. You are a short walk from Bolton Abbey and just a 10 minute drive to Skipton. Yet when the fireplace is crackling, the spa is steaming and you’re enjoying the tranquility of the Wharfe Valley, you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, with each module carefully positioned and protected from each other so you’re not overlooked. It’s camping with the rough edges sanded off – all the soul of the outdoors without the wet socks.
The final verdict Glamping at Catgill Farm is a must. If you think camping or glamping isn’t for you, think again. It’s the definitive answer for anyone looking for the “wow” factor without the snobbery. A luxury stay of another kind, but where the hectic pace of modern life naturally slows down and allows you to breathe. By combining the site’s deep agricultural roots with a modern, refined sensibility, the farm has created a sanctuary that feels timeless. Even if you’re convinced you’re not a “camper”, try Catgill…it might just change your mind.
Disclosure: Our stay was sponsored by Catgill Farm.
Paul Johnson Paul Johnson is the editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for over 30 years. He is the winner of the Innovations in Travel “Best Travel Influencer” award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.
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