Named after Faye’s family pony Bonnie, which also just happens to be the perfect word to describe the incredible views, Bonnie View is a working farm, a haven for retired horses and a glamping site with a luxury twist. Nestled in the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors, equestrians have been bringing their horses to stay here for years but it's only now – after being asked for the tenth (or hundredth) time by visitors – that Faye has introduced a luxury wood cabin too, so that fellow humans can enjoy the stunning surrounds without sleeping in the stables. Saying that, once you see how happy the horses are, you wouldn’t think twice about joining in their relaxing routines. And if that's how the horses are treated, just think how comfy you'll be here too.
From the fully equipped modern kitchen to the LED-lit deck with a picnic bench and firepit, the quirky and rustic cabin, a short stroll from the rest of the farm buildings, has comforts that even the ultra-pampered horses would be jealous of. On the ground floor you’ll find a standard double bed with a private downstairs bathroom, while, up in the mezzanine above, there's a comfy king size bed with a low ceiling, perfect to give the kids their own space or for adults in search of the highest levels of cosiness. If you get a rainy evening during your stay then you can sit back on the sofa, turn on the heating and browse the endless options on the smart TV. If it's sunny? Just sit out and enjoy the view.
If you’re visiting in July or August, you’ll be able to enjoy vistas of the purple heather that floods the local area. Four miles from the nearest main road, the peace and the views out here are truly superb. To the east, guests look across Riccal Dale to a ridge opposite and a footpath just beyond the farm gate leads down and across the valley. The whole area is dream if you're here to explore the national park. Hike north to Bransdale Moor, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and home to a large expanse of open heather moorland and a variety of rare birds that can only be found in this unique habitat, or short-cut your way there by driving round to the car park at Farndale, a popular spot for walking in spring when the daffodils are out.
The idyllic market town of Helmsley (a 15-minute drive away) has plenty of of shops, pubs and delis to visit, as well as a brewery (01439 771014) with a taproom open daily and a shop. Medieval Helmsley Castle (01439 770442), now cared for by English Heritage offers tours helping visitors discover how the castle evolved over the last 900 years, from a mighty medieval fortress to a luxurious Tudor mansion, to a Civil War stronghold and a romantic Victorian ruin. It’s a hot day you can spend the day lounging around the heated open-air pool in town too. Around 20 minutes away is Rievaulx Abbey, you can explore the impressive ruins and museum yourself or opt for an audio tour of the Cistercian monastery. The National Centre for birds of prey (01439 772080) is 15 minutes away and hosts lots of fun experiences like photography days and owl evenings. The popular Yorkshire coastal towns of Whitby and Scarborough are also a 40-minute drive away if you fancy a day at the beach.
Just under 15 minutes away from Bonnie View is The Black Swan, Helmsley (01915 803610). Dating back to the 15th century, the building features Elizabethan, Tudor and Georgian architecture, all combining to create the characterful and cosy restaurant that has been famous for its hospitality for centuries. If you’re serious about your drinking then you’ll enjoy a visit to Helmsley Brewing Company (071439 771014) too. Sample their crafted range of artisan beers brewed on site, enjoying their drinks in the sunny beer garden or buying some bottles to enjoy back in your cabin. The Feversham Arms (01439 770766) is perfect for if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just fancy something different. 15 minutes away in the car, you can enjoy cocktails by their pool (or even make a day of it and visit their spa beforehand) before sampling the locally sourced and adventurous lunch, dinner or afternoon tea menu that can be enjoyed al fresco in the summer months.
