There’s something undeniably enchanting about Jollydays. Having previously masterminded London’s stylish bar/restaurant and discreet celebrity hang-out CVO Firevault, husband-and-wife team Carolyn and Christian Van Outersterp opted to quit the city rat race and fulfill their dream of creating a better lifestyle for their family. The result is a sustainable campsite in the middle of a wood just 20 minutes from the historic centre of York.
Comprised entirely of generously spaced pre-constructed bell tents, luxury lodge tents, and deluxe tents, this lovely 200-acre woodland site casts a calming spell upon you as soon as you enter its leafy embrace. Cars are parked off site to minimise disruption, and the tents are lovingly decorated with lots of colourful, retro touches like funky furniture, bunting, and ornaments. They’re fully equipped of course, with BBQs, picnic benches, wood-burners, and proper beds; the deluxe tents have en suite showers, loos, and kitchens. You’ll even find cool boxes, daily ice packs, loo roll, and washing-up liquid. A ‘cake’ tent full of home-made goodies and a communal campfire serve as public areas, and the Van Outersterps can arrange everything from archery and champagne picnics to woodcraft lessons.
As for things to do in the area…well, there’s a whole bunch of options, including two national parks, several Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a stunning heritage coastline, and of course beautiful York, with its wealth of attractions and charming atmosphere.Flamingo Land, a theme park, resort, and zoo will keep the kids busy, as will the high wires of Go Ape (08456 439215) in Dalby Forest. Castle Howard (01653 648333) is a magnificent 18th-century residence set within 1,000 acres of spectacular landscape; while York Maze (01904 607341) is a lot of fun (openJul–Sept only). The Yorkshire Wolds, Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire Moors and East Riding are all within easy reach, as are the charming seaside settings of Bridington, Hornsea and Scarborough.
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Everything you need to know on what to do nearby and on site can be found in our activities brochure on the Jollydays website.
The Balloon Tree Farm Shop and Café (01759 373023) at Gate Helmsley sells its own home-grown fruit and veg, farm-reared meat, and excellent cakes. The Stone Trough Inn (01653 618713) at Kirkham Abbey is an award-winning English pub, serving a variety of Yorkshire ales. For something fancy try Harome’s Star Inn
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At Stamford Bridge (2miles away) there are 3 local pubs that serve food and real ales