Secure your holiday for £20.
Limited availability, could end at any time.T&Cs Apply.
Icon/Navigation/Chevron/Left Back to search

POPULAR REGION! A property was booked in Yorkshire Dales 29 minutes ago

1 of 67 View Image Gallery
  • Fernhill Castle - Yorkshire Dales - 1069783 - photo 1
close

Floorplans

Annexe2nd Floor1st FloorGround Floor

Ground Floor

Photos

Floorplans

Fernhill Castle

(Ref. 1069783)

Skipton, Yorkshire Dales - South Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 30 Guests

  • 10 Bedrooms

  • 8 Bathrooms

  • Pets No

Features

  • Electric vehicle charging
  • Hot tub
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Games Room
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • castle (23)
  • stay (22)
  • amazing (21)
  • property (19)
  • fernhill (14)
  • all (14)

36 Customer Reviews

  • "We had a fantastic stay at Fernhill Castle, being welcomed by Michael and having a tour of the grounds and property on arrival, while being told about the history was great."

    The location of Fernhill Castle is absolutely stunning, it is surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful views. The castle is surprising warm and cosy to say it is so old, and it has a lovely feel to it. The rooms are quirky and there is a lot of character throughout. All the beds are very comfortable, even the sofa beds and everyone slept well. We had a 1920's themed night and a murder mystery night, which the dinner room was the perfect space for. The coach house is a wonderful addition, with more sleeping accommodation if needed, a huge dining area and cinema room which came in very handy to watch the football on the large screen. Any questions I had before, during and after our stay, Michael was always quick to respond to and deal with, which was very much appreciated. All in all, we enjoyed our stay, would recommend to family and friends and would love to stay again.

    Reviewed by Kristy11.7Nov 2023

  • "Fantastic property with loads of character and fantastic views."

    We were the first party to have 30 people stay - loads of room and not overcrowded at all. Property owners were really accommodating and communicative throughout. A great please if you want something different

    Reviewed by Sanjit13.3Aug 2023

  • "I booked Fernhill Castle early February 2023 for a weekend stay in the middle of June 2023 to house a group of 20 of me and my close friends in celebration of my 21st birthday."

    Although the website includes a range of photos to portray the general vibe this property radiates it still doesn't do it justice. When experiencing the premises for the first time it magnifies a sense of disbelief and bewilderment that doesn't leave you throughout your stay. The property allows guests to immerse themselves in a beautiful and characterful home with ecstatic interior that preserves internal history. Speaking on behalf of 20 obnoxious and smart-aleck 21 year olds that you simply cannot get bored rather intimidated by the endless activates provided. The location is submerged in the secluded countryside so when you aren't focussed on the castle you are captivated by the view. The only downside of Fernhill Castle is departing from the property as it is very quick to feel at home here. I don't think I could recommend Fernhill enough as an option for any occasion. Whatever the occasion you choose it will not disappoint and can cater to all needs. The owners are lovely and are a text away for any further queries you need answering. Wanted to thank you Fernhill team for making this experience unforgettable.

    Reviewed by Nina13.3Jun 2023

  • "We stayed at the amazing Fernhill Castle at the end of May 2023."

    There was 24 of us in total and we all had an amazing stay! The castle and grounds were stunning, spacious and the hosts Michael and Briony were lovely and happy to help with anything. Michael gave us a tour of the castle when we arrived and told us some history about the property itself which was very interesting. The castle was well equipped with everything we needed for a lovely, relaxing week away. There is so much more potential and plans to develop the castle and its grounds further which sound fantastic. Everything from the start was great, the castle smelt amazing with the chapter diffusers and hand soap. The beds and baths were to die for and we could not fault anything. We were so secluded in our castle grounds and we lived like royalty for the week. So much nature and little walks and paths to explore which was enjoyed by all. Can not fault anything and would love to return in the future.

    Reviewed by John12.5May 2023

  • "We had an wonderful stay in May and the most glorious sunshine to enjoy the grounds, the hot tub as well as the house."

    Fernhill Castle is absolutely magnificent and provided us with the best possible setting for our group's celebration. It was beyond special! Thank you to the owner, Michael, for providing us with our tour and history of the property and also for arranging the beauty therapists and massage treatments in the Shepherds hut. I'd have no hesitation in recommending Fernhill to friends and family.

    Reviewed by Nia12.5May 2023

  • "Great host and an amazing property."

    I would thoroughly recommended Fernhill for a large gathering/celebration. We hope to visit again one day.

    Reviewed by David13.3May 2023

  • "We absolutely loved this amazing place."

    22 of us stayed for my sisters hen do and it was fantastic from start to finish. Owner Michael is really friendly and helpful and replies to any questions/queries promptly, providing information for other things i.e catering etc if needed. We arranged a catered meal with a chef which was fantastic and very professional. Can’t fault this place, the photos are beautiful but it actually looks better than the photos in person which I was quite surprised by. Great location and everything you need for a large group. We just need another big group to stay again as everyone who came loved it and wants to go back. Thanks for sharing such a great place with us ❤️

    Reviewed by Erin13.3Apr 2023

  • "What a stunning place to stay would highly recommend."

    Michael was amazing he gave us the grand tour of the house and gardens telling us about the history of the place, he clearly knows his stuff! The house is clean and spacious, the bedrooms are beautiful with lovely baths in most rooms the beds are extremely comfortable so you get a really good nights sleep. The furniture and decor throughout match the character of the house and the views are stunning! The gardens are simply beautiful and the hot tub is great!

    Reviewed by Emma13.3Apr 2023

  • "We stayed at Fernhill castle for the weekend and we were blown away by how amazing the stay was."

    Not only is the building and setting phenomenal, but the cleanliness, comfort and facilities were all amazing too. I would stay here again in a heartbeat, and I’m sure we’ll be back one day

    Reviewed by Penelope13.3Apr 2023

  • "Just returned from a fantastic family Easter break at Fernhill Castle."

    The owners Michael and Briony met us when we arrived and were so welcoming. We had 14 of us staying very comfortably with plenty of room and lots for us to do. Location is brilliant - so much to do within a short walk or driving distance. We had amazing weather and made use of the grounds and hot tub. The breakfast provided was amazing too! Would definitely recommend for a large group or family gathering!

    Reviewed by Kelly13.3Apr 2023

  • "Fernhill Castle was such an experience and a holiday we won’t forget, lots of ..."

    Fernhill Castle was such an experience and a holiday we won’t forget, lots of memories made and it’s been renovated very well as well as keeping the charm and character, the owner made us very welcome and wanted us to enjoy our stay , they couldn’t have done more

    Reviewed by Neil13.3Apr 2023

  • "The photos do not do this incredible castle justice!"

    22 of us stayed in this beautiful property. Michael was there to greet me upon arrival and shown me around the grounds filled with interesting facts. We didn't venture out much, but you don't need to as the castle and grounds are HUGE. Hot tub was gorgeous - it must be beautiful in the summer months. Would absolutely recommend this to anyone and would stay here again for a large gathering/celebration.

    Reviewed by Rebecca13.3Mar 2023

  • "We had an amazing time (18 adults)."

    The castle gives a full dose of British historical quirkiness. The snow arrived the day day we did which accentuated the beauty of the property and grounds. We were warm, ran open fires in 2 rooms and had plenty of hot water. Hot tub was an experience in the snow. Walks in the area are breathtaking, literally there was quite a wind up at the pinnacle. The canal tow path walk was interesting. We took advantage of the concierge services and had massages very nice!. Our party was catered for with a huge feasting table from Gimbles. All in all an experience we will all remember especially the spirit of the blue lady.

    Reviewed by Wendy13.3Mar 2023

  • "Such a beautifully unique property, we had such an amazing weekend."

    Reviewed by Jade13.3Mar 2023

  • "We had a fantastic weekend at Fernhill Castle."

    The photos don’t do the castle justice. It’s so much more impressive in reality. The beds were exceptionally comfortable. The owners were really helpful with organising the spa treatments and catering from the brilliant No.62 (afternoon tea). I would highly recommend, and look forward to going back.

    Reviewed by Aideen13.3Feb 2023

  • "We had an amazing stay at Fernhill Castle."

    With a total of 22 guests, everyone of us felt overwhelmed by the facilities, the history, the comfort of the rooms and had everything you could ever need and more, to make a week vacation stay with a large group, a huge success. We are all very grateful for the opportunity to have enjoyed such wonderful experience in this historic property. Thankyou, Thankyou, Thankyou!

    Reviewed by Louise13.3Jan 2023

  • "The venue exceeded my high expectations and was a spectacular location for my 40th birthday celebration with friends and family."

    Despite it being January and the weather being as unpredictable as expected, we made full use of the grounds and facilities. Each room exudes charm and character, with many being larger than the photos depict. The friendly hosts went above and beyond to assist us, even going as far as to help with a large delivery that arrived an hour before we did (whoops!). We chatted with them about their ambitious plans for the future, turns out you can improve on perfection! I would not hesitate to return

    Reviewed by Steve12.5Jan 2023

  • "Fernhill Castle is an amazing Grade 2 listed property with magnificent rooms, quirky features (shower in a tower!"

    ) and huge grounds. We stayed in December so couldn't spend much time in the grounds but they must be wonderful in the summer.

    Reviewed by Malcolm13.3Dec 2022

  • "The weekend was fabulous everyone from the youngest to oldest had a great time."

    We were meet by Michael and he showed us around the house and gardens and the hot tub And everything was as you would want it. The living areas are very comfortable and bedrooms were clean and comfortable. I would recommend it to everyone. Thank you

    Reviewed by Jacqueline13.3Nov 2022

  • "This is a fabulous property!"

    An amazing grade 1 listed quirky castle set in grounds with beautiful views and yet quite near Skipton and Silsden We had a family long weekend for 16 of us ages 17-80 - to celebrate an 80 th birthday and we all loved it. 17-20s spent time playing pool and in the brilliant hot tub in the grounds . Had wonderful family meals at the huge dining table by the fire . Helpful friendly owners and useful help clearing up at the end . A great place for large groups and lots to do close by

    Reviewed by Carol13.3Nov 2022

  • "From how lovely, helpful and fantastic at communicating the owners were and to generally how incredible the property is, we would highly recommend a stay here."

    20 of us went for my partners 30th birthday. Everybody slept comfortably and a very spacious property. Fantastic all round and would love the opportunity to go back again.

    Reviewed by Sophie12.5Nov 2022

  • "Absolutely amazing experience staying in this Castle."

    .. Both Inside and outside of the accommodation are stunning. Brilliant Weekend

    Reviewed by Andrew12.5Oct 2022

  • "Fantastic property with some amazing features."

    The grounds are stunning too.

    Reviewed by Paul13.3Oct 2022

  • "Host was great and easy to communicate with."

    The Castle is absolutely stunning and amazing for a family trip. My family loved the stay and would highly recommend it!

    Reviewed by Mohammed13.3Aug 2022

  • "I stayed here at this wonderful place for my hen do."

    We had the most amazing time and the owners were absolutely lovely. I would without a doubt recommend this beautiful castle to anyone. The pictures not do it justice. Everyone is still talking about the amazing time they had. I will be returning one day hopefully. Thankyou for an excellent stay xxx

    Reviewed by Karla11.7Jul 2022

  • "What a superb property for our three generational family get together."

    Such a fascinating and interesting house with so much space both internally and in the grounds. Perfect for the six little ones to run around and enjoy themselves. We would recommend this property to anyone wanting somewhere ‘different’ to stay. Thank you to Michael and Briony.

    Reviewed by James13.3Jun 2022

  • "The owners went above and beyond for our stay."

    We are so thankful to have had the chance to be at this location with family. I cannot recommend this place enough. We were all blown away at the creative way each room was put together. The view of the valley from the lawn and hidden corners of the castle make each moment a fun experience. Would absolutely stay again and recommend to anyone wishing for a relaxing and replenishing stay in the English countryside. The history was very fun to learn about and picture what may have transpired within the castle walls and across the lawn. This was a one of a kind experience we will never forget and hope to return to one day in the future.

    Reviewed by Nathaniel13.3May 2022

  • "Amazing stay with the family, everyone enjoyed the castle and all the vast space it comes with."

    The castle is nice and warm surprisingly, big spacious rooms, very convenient and easy to use kitchen. The hot tub was really good, the pics don’t do it justice, way better in real.

    Reviewed by Jesmin13.3May 2022

  • "Lovely location, for family and friends."

    Well maintained castle with 8 rooms, few with en-suits. Kitchen and big dinning room with fire place. Beautiful lounge. There is a pool table and few small games for children. May visit again. Hot tub facilities available.

    Reviewed by Mukesh13.3Apr 2022

  • "We gathered the whole family from round the country at Fernhill Castle, to celebrate some milestone birthdays and anniversaries."

    We had the most wonderful stay in this amazing, quirky venue. The facilities were excellent and, despite very cold weather, we were all cosy and lit the log fire in the games room. The little grandsons had a ball, exploring, playing treasure hunt and using the garden toys. The location is great and we walked the canal, visited Billy Bob's Diner, Skipton and East Riddlesden Hall (NT) nearby. We also had a delicious celebration buffet supplied by the recommended caters. Thanks for a memorable stay.

    Reviewed by Helen13.3Apr 2022

  • "Amazing property in a superb location, great pubs & restaurants nearby and we all had a great weekend."

    Facilities were spot on, pool table, big open fires, hot tub all great. Recommended. Could do with more showers though, especially when there's 10 guests as the one there didn't work when everyone else was filling the baths.

    Reviewed by Simon10.0Apr 2022

  • "19 of us went for the weekend and had an amazing stay."

    The house was spotless the beds comfortable and all the towels and toiletries supplied were the best quality. Most rooms have amazing baths with a view which we all enjoyed! The kitchen has everything you need and there is tons of plates, glasses etc our If your wanting to cook. We easily cooked for 19. It was amazing to stay in such a quirky place and we had an unforgettable weekend celebrating a 40th birthday. Lots close by to do. We walked to the pub a couple of times, but mainly stayed in the castle enjoying the fires, the hot tub and the views! We will definitely be back!

    Reviewed by H13.3Jan 2022

  • "Wow! What a magical place Fernhill Castle is and what fantastic and authentic restoration work the owner and his family have done on the property."

    We visited with family for my husband’s 40th Birthday and there was something for everyone! Nobody wanted to leave when it was time and the owners were very accommodating and welcoming and although we had a slight issue with the heating upstairs they came out straight away to sort it for us. I would be back in a heartbeat! Very well equipped to feed everyone who dines at the extremely long dining table in the grand dining room (including frying pans) and the beds were unbelievably comfortable. The house was dressed beautifully for Christmas and although it took a bit of time to get used to the life size Santa in the Mousey Thompson room, the castle looked wonderful. We have made such lovey family memories here that we will talk about for years to come. Thank you!

    Reviewed by Amy13.3Dec 2021

  • "The castle is just amazing."

    The grounds are beautiful. Our family thoroughly enjoyed the stay and the children loved staying in the castle. The hot tub was a hit too. Could have done with some frying pans and the oven was also difficult to use. We will definitely be back what a magical place.

    Reviewed by Louise12.5Nov 2021

  • "A lovely property which I would highly recommend to anybody to stay at."

    Incredibly pretty with every essential provided. The owners were very kind to us and couldn’t have done more to make us feel at home. A huge thank-you to the owners!

    Reviewed by Alasdair6.7Sep 2021

  • "I only have good things to say about the amazing week we spent together as a family at Fernhill."

    What a privilege to be able to stay in such a historic building set within such expansive grounds. Michael the owner was an absolute pleasure to deal with and has continued a fantastic restoration effort on this truly special property, with so many authentic and charming features. The location is excellent for exploring the local area, with so much to see and do, and we particularly enjoyed the ease of access to the canal path for walking and biking. The property itself is very well maintained and we found very comfortable with young children despite being an older building. The stunning gardens and sizeable outdoor barbecue came into their own on good weather days. The outdoor hot tub was a hit whatever the weather. The kitchen is well equipped and the main fireplace a joy. I would note that the stairs to the top two bedrooms are unsuitable for small children and those with reduced mobility. However, the property was plenty big enough for our large party even without the top floor and I believe the owner is in the process of creating another fabulous master bedroom on the first floor. I would strongly encourage anyone that is thinking of visiting Fernhill to do so as it is a truly unique and characterful venue to enjoy with family and friends.

    Reviewed by Tom6.7Jul 2021

Show more Hide all

Summary

  • Fernhill Castle is one of Yorkshire’s finest and most important houses
  • MAIN HOUSE - In total 8 bedrooms with 7 bathrooms and 1 WCs
  • FIRST FLOOR - 6 bedrooms:
  • 1 x super king with Simon Horn double pull out bed, offering an additional 2 singles, and an en-suite with Jacuzzi bath, basin and WC
  • 1 x super king with Simon Horn double pull out bed, offering an additional 2 singles, and an en-suite with bath, basin and WC
  • 1 x super king with a single sofa bed, made up on request, and an en-suite shower room
  • 1 x super king with a single sofa bed, made up on request, with an en-suite including bath, basin and WC.1 x triple room with 3 single beds with a shared house bathroom with freestanding bath, basin and WC
  • 1 x king with separate wet room
  • SECOND FLOOR 2 bedrooms:
  • 1 x king size with a freestanding bath in the room and separate turret WC and basin
  • 1 x king with a shared house bathroom with freestanding bath, toilet and WC on the first floor
  • GROUND FLOOR: sitting room, drawing room, snug and large hall all with ample seating
  • Kitchen, with AGA, separate oven, hob, freestanding fridge and freezer, dishwasher and washer dryer
  • Large dining room with seating for over 20 and a separate boot room
  • Ground floor WC
  • Four open fires with wood and fuel starter pack provided
  • WIFI, 5 x smart TVs and Bose portable sound system, a selection of books, indoor traditional adults’ games and high quality younger children’s toys
  • Games room, pool table
  • COACH HOUSE detached annexe situated next to the main house
  • 2 bedrooms, sleeping 6
  • Coach house - Ground floor - Cinema room & Dining room, 1 WC
  • Coach House - Mezzanine level – 1 king size room, 1 room with 2 double beds, 1 bathroom
  • Large hot tub, fire pit, outdoor chess set, croquet, and a variety of other outdoor games
  • Electric vehicle charging is available on a pay as you go basis
  • Ample off-road parking secured behind electric gates and CCTV
  • Extensive outdoor space with BBQ and furniture, including large lawned areas, formal and wildlife ponds, walled kitchen garden, orchard and over 15 acres adjoining the canal
  • Personal virtual concierge service available to arrange a variety of additional services including: Private Chef & Catering, Housekeeping, Clay Pigeon shooting, Canal Boat trips, Cocktail Masterclass, at Home Spa, subject to availability
  • IMPORTANT NOTES:
  • Sorry no pets and no smoking
  • Check in time is 4pm and check out time is 10am
  • Note: This property has a refundable Good Housekeeping bond of £1000
  • Note: this property doesn't accept same-day bookings
  • Note: Minimum stay for this property is 3 nights
  • Note: if you would like to book this property for a wedding, please contact us for more information as this must be agreed in advance with the property owner

The property

Fernhill Castle is one of Yorkshire’s finest and most important houses.

Dating back to the 14th century, it nestles in its own fifteen-acre estate on the outskirts of Skipton, the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales.

The grade one listed fortified mansion was built by Edward De Fernhill to protect nearby Bolton Abbey from starving marauders who, having been defeated at the famous battle of Bannockburn, had travelled from Scotland to find food in the form of the cattle which grazed the Bolton estate.

He was gifted the title Lord of the Manor for his loyalty.

Throughout the centuries the house was beautified firstly in the 17th century and later in the 20th, when master craftsman Robert ‘Mouseman’ Thompson of Kilburn created a rare and impressive panelled drawing room, with eight hidden carved mice, also on three of the four open fire places.

It is considered one of his most important works in a private home.

Fernhill has been carefully restored so you fully enjoy the Lord and Lady of the Manor experience.

It has eight individually designed bedrooms in the main house, seven unique bathrooms and one separate WCs.

In the separate annexe named The Coach House, there are two bedrooms, a shared bathroom and WC.

All with bespoke toiletries and a house fragrance designed specifically for the castle.

The carefully chosen bedroom furniture includes mattresses and duvets made from the finest Yorkshire wool and bedding woven from pure natural linen.

Our welcome pack is brimming with the county’s finest produce.

The kitchen boasts all modern equipment, including an AGA and separate oven.

But for a truly relaxing experience we also offer a wide range of catered options from simple hors d’oeuvres and grazing platters, Yorkshire picnics, to five course fine dining experiences - all of which will be enjoyed in the magnificent 17th century dining room with a huge open fire and banqueting table seating twenty.

Find your favourite spot in the castle, be it the cosy panelled snug, the formal sitting room with its gothic shutters and marble fireplace, or the 14th century hall with magnificent medieval arched windows.

Or perhaps take a book and play traditional games in the ‘Mouseman’ Drawing room.

All offering far reaching views of Yorkshire’s rolling hills and dales.

Maybe unwind with your favourite tipple, which can be ordered ahead of your stay from our sommelier’s hand- picked list of fine wines, award winning Yorkshire spirits and ales.

View the ancient turrets and try to discover the whereabouts of the secret priest holes said to have led occupants underground to the safety of Kildwick Church.

Continue outside with a stroll in the sunken gardens or woods.

Visit the wildlife and formal ponds.

Walk around the walled kitchen garden or enjoy a barge trip along the Leeds Liverpool canal which borders the estate, which we are happy to arrange.

Maybe play a game of chess on the original outdoor chess board or enjoy a massage from our list of home spa experiences.

When evening comes the castle is even more magical.

A time perhaps to enjoy a dip in the hot tub, toast a marshmallow on the firepit or cosy up next to the roaring fires. If you want to venture further afield the castle is the perfect base from which to explore the glories of Yorkshire’s largest national park.

Bolton Abbey, the Duke of Devonshire’s estate is a stone’s throw away, as is the picturesque market town of Grassington, where All Creatures Great and Small is filmed and historic Haworth, home to the famous Bronte sisters.

The spa towns of Ilkley and Harrogate home to the famous Betty’s tearooms.

Note: This property has a refundable Good Housekeeping bond of £1000.

View on map

About the location

SKIPTON

Grassington 9 miles; Harrogate 20 miles.

Known as “The Gateway to the Dales”, Skipton is well placed for visiting all that the Dales has to offer, whilst York, the Lake District and the West Coast are also within easy motoring distance. This lovely market town has much to interest the enthusiastic visitor, boasting an ancient castle open to the public, a beautiful old parish church and a colourful market occupying the cobbled setts each side of the high street. In 2014, The Sunday Times named Skipton as Britain's "best place to live" and two years later placed it among the nine best towns in Yorkshire and the North-East. Steam railways with regular excursions are available at Embsay and Bolton Abbey, and the Leeds to Liverpool Canal passes through Skipton with the 1 mile long Foulridge Tunnel and the 5-rise locks at Bingley within a short travel. Golf, swimming, squash, tennis and snooker are all available locally and the excellent public transport means the car can be left at home!

View more holiday cottages in Skipton

Please note. If you would like to book this property for a wedding, please contact us for more information as this must be agreed in advance with the property owner.

Please note: this property doesn't accept same day bookings.

Note: This property has a refundable Good Housekeeping bond of 1000GBP.

Note: Minimum stay for this property is 3 nights.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute