ThisledoHolidayCottage, Author at Thisledo Holiday Cottage Skipton

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Five Things to Do in Skipton (That Don’t Involve Chasing Sheep)

2nd March 2025

Welcome to Skipton, the “Gateway to the Dales,” home to cobbled streets, a spectacular medieval castle, and more independent tearooms than you can shake a scone at. If you’re lucky enough to be staying at Thisledo Holiday Cottage, congratulations! You’ve picked a prime location for relaxation, adventure, and eating your body weight in Yorkshire puddings.

But what to do while you’re here? Fear not, dear traveller! Here are five things you absolutely must try (and one thing you probably shouldn’t) while enjoying your stay in Skipton.

1. Visit Skipton Castle (and Pretend You Own It)

Skipton Castle is over 900 years old, which is probably longer than it takes to get served at the pub on a busy Saturday night. One of the best-preserved medieval castles in England, it comes complete with dungeons, a banqueting hall, and enough spiral staircases to make your FitBit weep.

Pro tip: Stride confidently through the castle grounds, loudly referring to it as “my humble abode.” Bonus points if you wear a cape and insist people address you as “Your Grace.”

2. Take a Boat Trip on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal

The canal runs right through the heart of Skipton, offering leisurely boat trips with the added entertainment of watching tourists attempt to operate bridges without falling in. You can either hire your own boat (recommended only if you have some level of coordination) or let someone else do the steering while you sit back and sip a nice cup of Yorkshire Tea.

Top tip: Wave regally at passersby. It’s important they know you are having a better time than them.

3. Get Lost in Skipton’s Market (Then Buy Something You Don’t Need)

Skipton’s famous market runs four days a week, offering everything from locally made cheese to slightly suspect garden gnomes. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, especially if you’ve ever thought, What my house really needs is a hand-knitted tea cosy shaped like a sheep.

Essential strategy: Haggle with the stallholders, but do it in a friendly Yorkshire way. A good rule of thumb is to knock a bit off the price but offer to buy them a pint later.

4. Climb Up to Skipton Woods (Then Regret It Halfway Up)

If you fancy a scenic stroll that makes you feel like you’re in a Brontë novel, Skipton Woods is the place to be. It’s a short, picturesque walk with fairy-tale trees, babbling brooks, and just enough incline to remind you that you should have gone to the gym last year.

Pro tip: Take snacks. Not because the walk is long, but because every British outing is improved by emergency biscuits.

5. Attempt to Eat an Entire Yorkshire Pudding the Size of Your Head

Skipton is home to some truly excellent pubs, most of which serve traditional Sunday roasts with Yorkshire puddings the size of small hot air balloons. These are not for the faint-hearted.

Warning: If you finish the entire thing, locals may either applaud or recruit you for their local food challenges. Either way, you’ll be too full to move for at least three hours.

BONUS TIP: What Not to Do – Engage in a Staring Contest with a Sheep

The Yorkshire Dales are just on Skipton’s doorstep, full of stunning countryside, rolling hills, and lots (and lots) of sheep. While they may look cute and fluffy, they take their job of standing in the middle of the road very seriously.

If you do encounter one, remain calm, avoid direct eye contact, and accept that the sheep is in charge now.

Final Thoughts…

Skipton is a brilliant place to visit, whether you’re here for history, nature, or just the pleasure of consuming an indecent amount of cake. And when the day’s adventures are done, you can return to Thisledo Holiday Cottage, put your feet up, and bask in the glory of having conquered (or at least survived) the delights of Skipton.

Now, who’s ready for another Yorkshire pudding?

Skipton: Where Even the Buildings Refuse to Age!

23rd February 2025

If you’ve ever wandered down Skipton High Street and thought, Wow, this place hasn’t changed in centuries!—well, you’d be absolutely right. Mick Harrison’s fascinating black-and-white photographic collection confirms that Skipton’s buildings have a better skincare routine than most of us.

Take Skipton Town Hall, for example. Built in 1862, it still stands proudly in all its neo-Palladian glory, like a Victorian gentleman refusing to swap his top hat for a baseball cap. The grand entrance, the stately columns—it’s practically unchanged. A bit like that one pub regular who’s had the same seat since the 1800s.

And then there’s the High Street. Sure, the signage has changed (farewell, Ye Olde Butcher, hello Greggs), but squint at an old photo, and you’ll see that the buildings are still standing tall, as if they’re stubbornly refusing to acknowledge the passage of time. Thanks to the Skipton High Street Heritage Action Zone, they’ve had a little TLC to stay looking their best—think of it as a facelift, but for architecture.

Now, let’s talk ginnels (for those unfamiliar, a ginnel is a Yorkshire alleyway, not a new fitness craze). Skipton’s maze of historic passageways remains delightfully unchanged, perfect for dodging the rain or pretending you’re in a period drama. Some of these ginnels have barely altered since the 18th century—living proof that if something ain’t broke, we Yorkshire folk certainly won’t fix it.

Mick Harrison’s photographic archive is basically a time machine, proving that Skipton’s buildings are playing the long game. So next time you stroll through town, take a moment to appreciate its stubbornly unchanged charm. After all, in an era of constant change, isn’t it nice to know that some things—like cobbled streets and a good Yorkshire brew—will always stay the same?

Dog-Friendly Cottages Near Skipton (With Parking… Sort Of!)

22nd February 2025

If you’re searching for the perfect dog-friendly cottage near Skipton, complete with charming stone walls, a cosy atmosphere, and ample space for you and your four-legged friend to unwind, then Thisledo Holiday Cottage is just the place. And yes, we know—parking is a hot topic when booking a getaway. So, let’s address the (non-existent) elephant in the room.

Does Thisledo have its own private parking space?

No. But don’t stop reading! Stay with us—we promise it’s all good news from here.

Where Do I Park?

Fortunately, while Thisledo may not have its own designated parking spot, you won’t need to go on a treasure hunt for a place to leave your car. There’s plenty of free street parking just a few minutes’ walk away—and unlike the Great Skipton Sheep Market of 1837 (we may have made that up), it’s not a battle for survival.

For your convenience, we’ve got short-stay parking right near the cottage—perfect for those crucial moments when you need to unload bags, dog beds, and that oversized stash of biscuits you insisted you wouldn’t buy (but let’s be honest, you totally did).

What About My Dog?

Now, let’s get to the really important part—your furry travel companion. Thisledo is proudly dog-friendly, meaning wagging tails are welcome! Skipton and the surrounding Yorkshire Dales are a paradise for pups, offering:
🐾 Miles of scenic walks—from canal towpaths to windswept moors.
🐾 Dog-friendly pubs—because why should only humans enjoy a pint?
🐾 A cozy retreat at the end of the day—with comfy spots for snoozing (for you and the dog).

Skipton Awaits!

Whether you’re coming for the spectacular countryside, the delicious local food, or just to give your dog the holiday they deserve, Thisledo offers everything you need—except its own parking space. But hey, who needs one when you’ve got easy street parking, loading zones, and a fantastic location?

Book your stay today, and don’t forget to pack the dog biscuits! 🐶🚗

The Perfect Skipton Getaway: A Retired Couple’s Search for the Ideal Holiday Cottage

15th February 2025

Now that we’re retired, we have the luxury of time. Time to travel at our own pace, avoid the weekend rush, and enjoy the places we visit without the crowds. When we decided to book a holiday in Skipton—the Gateway to the Dales—we knew exactly what we wanted from a holiday cottage.

Comfort Over Chaos

Gone are the days when we were happy squeezing into a tiny run down rental just because it was cheap and cheerful. These days, comfort is key. A cosy cottage with a well-equipped kitchen (because we enjoy a quiet night in with a home-cooked meal), and a bed that won’t leave us needing a chiropractor.

Location, Location, Location

We like a good walk, but we don’t want to trek miles just to reach the town centre. Ideally, we want to be within a short stroll of a nice café for our morning coffee, a good pub for an evening drink, and of course, Skipton’s famous market. It’s a bonus if there’s easy parking, but if we can leave the car behind and explore on foot, even better.

A Touch of Character

Skipton is a historic town, so we don’t want to stay somewhere that feels like a generic, soulless box. A charming stone cottage with a welcoming feel, that’s what makes a holiday memorable.

Dog-Friendly (Because We’re Not Leaving Her Behind!)

We might be empty nesters, but we do have one very important travel companion—our little spaniel, Millie. A pet-friendly cottage is a must, and not just one that allows dogs but actually welcomes them. We’re looking for somewhere with a safe place to dry off after a walk and no long list of ‘don’t let your dog do this’ rules. Bonus points if there’s a good dog-friendly pub nearby!

Skipton: The Perfect Base

We love Skipton for so many reasons—the scenic canal walks, the stunning countryside of the Yorkshire Dales, and of course, the fantastic independent shops. A trip to the famous pie shop is non-negotiable, and we can’t resist a good rummage in the market. A day out at Bolton Abbey or Malham Cove is also on the cards, but we want a cottage that makes it just as tempting to stay in with a glass of wine and a good book.

What We Found…

After much searching, we came across Thisledo Holiday Cottage—exactly what we’d been looking for. A traditional stone cottage, tastefully furnished, and just a short walk from the centre of Skipton. It ticks all our boxes: cosy, well-equipped, dog-friendly, and full of character. If you’re a retired couple like us, looking for a peaceful yet well-located base to enjoy the best of Skipton and the Dales, this little cottage might just be the perfect fit.

Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’re off to find Millie’s lead—it’s time for a canal-side stroll before heading to the Woolly Sheep for a pint. Retirement isn’t so bad after all!

Romance, Roaming, and Rover: A Couple’s Guide to the Yorkshire Dales (Dog Included, Obviously)

7th February 2025

Ah, the Yorkshire Dales. Rolling hills, dry stone walls, and more sheep than you’ve ever seen in your life. It’s the perfect place for a romantic getaway—just you, your beloved, and your four-legged shadow who refuses to leave your side even when you’re trying to enjoy a nice soak in the tub.

If you’re after a couples’ retreat but can’t bear the thought of those sad puppy-dog eyes when you start packing a weekend bag, fear not. Yorkshire’s full of dog-friendly holiday cottages where romance and muddy paw prints go hand in hand.

Finding the Perfect Cottage (Without a “No Dogs Allowed” Sign in Sight)

Not all cottages are created equal. Some are grand country houses where you’d be terrified to let your dog within ten feet of the antique furniture, while others are so rustic you’d have to share the bed with a sheep. The trick is finding that just right balance—cosy enough for a romantic evening by the fire, but not so pristine you’ll spend the whole trip apologising for the amount of dog hair now embedded in the furniture.

Ideally, you want:
✅ A cosy living room (for dramatic, wine-in-hand conversations about how lovely the Dales are)
✅ A secure area (because no one wants to spend their weekend sprinting after a terrier who’s just spotted a pheasant)
✅ A pub within waddling distance (because you will need to refuel after all those bracing walks)

Walkies, Welly Boots & Worn-Out Paws

A romantic break in the Yorkshire Dales usually involves at least one scenic walk where you get lost despite the fact that you swore you were following the footpath. The good news? Your dog doesn’t care if you know where you’re going, as long as they’re out sniffing everything in sight.

Some must-do walks for couples and their canine companions:

🐾 Malham Cove – Perfect for that ‘we’ve conquered the wild’ feeling, and if it’s good enough for Harry Potter, it’s good enough for you.

🐾 Bolton Abbey – A gentle(ish) stroll with the reward of a nice tea room at the end. If your dog enjoys a paddle, the River Wharfe is ideal.

🐾 Aysgarth Falls – Three waterfalls, a pub nearby, and plenty of opportunities for your dog to shake water all over you.

Just remember, this is Yorkshire. You’ll probably end up ankle-deep in mud, so pack sensibly. Nothing kills romance like soggy socks and a dog that smells like wet sheep.

The Local Pub Test

A holiday in Yorkshire isn’t complete without finding a proper pub where:
✔ The landlord greets your dog before acknowledging you
✔ The fire’s roaring no matter what time of year it is
✔ Someone’s eating a pie the size of a small planet

Luckily, the Dales are packed with such establishments. The trick is finding the perfect spot where you can tuck into a hearty meal while your dog lies under the table dreaming of stolen sausages.

Final Thoughts: The Paw-fect Getaway

Yorkshire is a place where romance isn’t just about candlelit dinners—it’s about muddy boots, stunning views, and sharing a bag of chips on a windy hillside. And if your idea of the perfect trip involves your furry best mate by your side, then you’ve come to the right place.

Just remember:
✔ Bring a towel for the dog
✔ Accept that your car will never be free of mud again
✔ And, most importantly, book a cottage ( Maybe Thisledo Holiday Cottage ) where you and your dog are both treated like royalty.

Because in Yorkshire, everyone’s welcome—especially if they’ve got a wagging tail. 😊

Celebrate a Year Packed Full of Success!

1st February 2025

We are thrilled to announce that Thisledo Holiday Cottage has been awarded a Traveller Review Award 2025 from Booking.com! This incredible recognition is a testament to the wonderful experiences our 2024 guests have had while staying with us in the heart of Skipton, the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales.

A Big Thank You to Our Guests

We couldn’t have achieved this without the amazing feedback from our guests. Your kind words and glowing reviews mean the world to us, and we are delighted that our charming, dog-friendly cottage has been a home away from home for so many visitors. Whether you’ve stayed for a peaceful retreat, an adventurous break in the Dales, or simply to enjoy Skipton’s bustling market town charm, we are grateful for each and every guest who has taken the time to share their experiences.

What Makes Thisledo Special?

Nestled in a picturesque location, Thisledo Holiday Cottage is designed to provide comfort, character, and all the modern conveniences you need for a relaxing getaway. With traditional stone walls, cosy interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere, our cottage is the perfect base for exploring the stunning Yorkshire countryside. Plus, we’re dog-friendly, so your four-legged companions can join in on the adventure too!

Looking Ahead to Another Fantastic Year

Receiving the Traveller Review Award 2025 has inspired us to keep improving and ensuring every guest enjoys a top-notch stay. We’re excited about the year ahead, welcoming new and returning guests to Thisledo and continuing to create unforgettable experiences.

If you haven’t stayed with us yet, why not make 2025 the year you discover the beauty of Skipton and the Yorkshire Dales? Book your stay now and experience award-winning hospitality for yourself!

Let’s Celebrate Together!

Thank you for making this achievement possible – here’s to another great year at Thisledo Holiday Cottage!

Book your stay today at thisledo.co.uk.

2025: The Year of Bookings at Thisledo Holiday Cottage – Don’t Miss Out!

12th January 2025

As 2025 kicks off, something truly magical is happening at Thisledo Holiday Cottage – our booking calendar is filling up faster than the Skipton market on a sunny Saturday! From winter wanderers to summer seekers, it seems everyone wants a piece of our Yorkshire haven this year.

Why Everyone’s Talking About Thisledo

Nestled in the heart of Skipton, Thisledo Holiday Cottage is the perfect escape no matter the season. Cozy winters by the fire, springtime strolls through the blossoming Dales, sun-drenched summer evenings in the many pubs in Skipton town centre, or the fiery hues of autumn walks – there’s never a wrong time to visit.

Perhaps that’s why so many of our guests have already planned their stays throughout 2025. Who could resist the charm of a traditional stone cottage with all the modern comforts, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Yorkshire Dales?

What Makes Thisledo the Perfect Getaway

Picture this:

For Winter Travelers: A snug retreat with warm throws and hot cocoa, just a stone’s throw from Skipton Castle and other local gems.
For Spring Adventurers: Long walks along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, where nature begins to bloom and the Dales come alive with color.
For Summer Explorers: Lazy days soaking up the sun on the moors, or al fresco dinners after exploring Skipton’s vibrant market and quaint shops.
For Autumn Romantics: Crisp air, golden leaves, and hearty pub meals after a day spent hiking the trails.

And don’t forget – we’re proudly dog-friendly, so your furry family members are welcome to join the adventure.

A Year to Look Forward To

2025 isn’t just about restocking your energy; it’s about creating memories you’ll cherish. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a solo retreat, or a family escape, Thisledo offers something for everyone. :

Don’t Let 2025 Pass You By

The secret’s out, and bookings are coming in for every month of the year. If you’ve been daydreaming about escaping to the tranquil beauty of Skipton, now’s the time to make it happen.

📅 Check your calendar, choose your dates, and book now to avoid missing out!

👉 Visit thisledo.co.uk to secure your stay. Whether it’s a snowy winter weekend or a golden summer escape, we can’t wait to welcome you to Thisledo Holiday Cottage.

2025 is shaping up to be a year to remember – make sure your perfect Yorkshire getaway is part of it!

Why January is the Perfect Time for a Weekend in Skipton

28th December 2024

As the festive whirlwind subsides and the new year stretches out with promise, January offers the perfect opportunity to take a breather. And where better to escape than the charming market town of Skipton, nestled at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales? A weekend holiday cottage stay in Skipton can rejuvenate your spirits and start your year on the right foot. Here’s why January is the ideal time to visit:

1. Peaceful Post-Holiday Bliss

January in Skipton is wonderfully calm. The bustling crowds of December shoppers have dissipated, leaving you to enjoy the town’s cobbled streets, independent shops, and quaint cafés at your leisure. Stroll along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal or wander up to Skipton Castle, one of England’s best-preserved medieval fortresses, without the usual crowds.

2. Seasonal Scenery

The Yorkshire Dales in January are simply magical. Frost-dusted landscapes glisten in the crisp winter air, and the low golden sunlight bathes the rolling hills in a soft glow. A brisk walk on one of the many nearby trails—such as the circular route around Malham Cove—offers invigorating views that will stay with you long after your visit.

3. Cosy Comforts

After a day exploring, there’s nothing better than returning to a warm, welcoming holiday cottage. At Thisledo Holiday Cottage, you can kick off your boots, snuggle up on the sofa with a hot drink, and unwind in a space designed for comfort. With its traditional features and modern amenities, our dog-friendly cottage is the perfect retreat from the January chill.

4. Incredible January Deals

January is a quieter time for travel, meaning you can often snag fantastic deals on accommodation and activities. Thisledo Holiday Cottage offers excellent rates in the off-season, allowing you to enjoy all the charm of Skipton without stretching your post-Christmas budget.

5. Local Events and Dining

Skipton doesn’t hibernate in January. Many of its independent restaurants and pubs—like the award-winning Woolly Sheep Inn—offer hearty seasonal menus. Keep an eye out for winter food festivals or live music events to add a touch of vibrancy to your stay.

6. A New Year’s Reset

A January getaway is more than a holiday; it’s a chance to recharge. The slower pace of Skipton encourages relaxation, reflection, and reconnection with yourself and loved ones. Whether you’re curling up with a book by the fire or enjoying a glass of wine in a charming local pub, the tranquillity of the town makes it easy to leave your worries behind.

Book Your January Escape Today

Start your year with a refreshing change of scenery at Thisledo Holiday Cottage. Our cosy, dog-friendly getaway offers everything you need for a relaxing weekend in Skipton. Visit thisledo.co.uk to book your stay and make January a month to remember.

A Big Thank You to Our Wonderful Guests – Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Thisledo!

21st December 2024

As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to reflect, appreciate, and most importantly, thank you – our fantastic guests of 2024!

Whether you were here to explore the charming streets of Skipton, hike the stunning Yorkshire Dales, or simply enjoy a cup of tea while our cottage kept you cosy, you chose Thisledo as your home away from home.

The Year in Review

This year brought a whirlwind of activity! From wagging tails of delighted doggy visitors to guests who swore they’d conquered every cake at the local tearooms, you’ve all added your unique story to our little cottage.

We had:

The Outdoor Adventurers, who conquered Malham Cove in record time.
The Bookworms, who curled up by the fire and devoured more novels than we have shelves.
The Amateur Chefs, who made our kitchen smell better than Mary Berry’s Christmas special.
And, of course, The “I’ll-Just-Have-One-Pint” Explorers, who discovered the welcoming warmth of Skipton’s finest pubs.

Your laughter, adventures, and stories have filled Thisledo with joy and memories that will last well into 2025.

A Holly, Jolly Christmas Wish

As you hang up your walking boots, indulge in one (or three) mince pies, and prepare for the festive season, we want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your celebrations be merry, your Yorkshire pudding perfectly risen, and your Christmas crackers filled with jokes that actually make you laugh (we can hope!).

See You in 2025!

We hope to welcome you back to Thisledo next year. Whether you’re a returning guest or a first-timer, our cottage will be here, ready to provide comfort, charm, and that special Skipton magic.

Thank you once again for choosing Thisledo Holiday Cottage. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and adventure-filled 2025!

When Reindeer Have Wheels: Spotting the Famous Rudolph Tractor Run in Skipton!

17th December 2024

If you thought Santa was the only one dashing through the streets at Christmas, think again! Skipton, the Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, has a festive surprise that’ll make even the grumpiest Grinch grin. Picture this: hundreds of tractors, adorned with twinkling fairy lights, a shiny red nose, and antlers big enough to make a moose jealous. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this is Skipton’s famous Rudolph Tractor Run, and it’s the ultimate Christmas sighting if you’re lucky enough to be here for the holidays!

Now, let me set the scene. You’ve booked yourself a charming little holiday cottage in Skipton (something quaint and lovely like Thisledo Holiday Cottage, hint hint). You’ve settled in with a cuppa, marvelled at the festive décor in town, and promised yourself you’ll only have one mince pie… OK, two. Suddenly, you hear a faint rumble. Is it thunder? A rogue cow on the cobbled streets? Nope, it’s far better. It’s the Rudolph Tractor Run coming into town, spreading cheer like a farm-themed sleigh.

The Skipton Christmas Parade… on Wheels!

Every year, Skipton pulls out all the stops to celebrate Christmas. But unlike those fancy towns with their high-brow parades, Skipton keeps it real. We’re talking local farmers, big hearts, and tractors dressed up in Christmas lights and decorations. Starting in Otley and finishing in Skiptonin Skipton, the tractor run delights kids, grown-ups, and confused tourists alike. It also raises thousnads of pounds for local charities.

You see, this isn’t just about festive fun – it’s a showcase of true Yorkshire creativity. Who needs sleigh bells when you’ve got tractor engines purring through the streets, right?

Top Tips for Spotting the Rudolph Tractor

Be Prepared: The Tractor Run doesn’t always stick to a tight schedule – it’s a free spirit. Keep your camera handy as you stroll through town, just in case it rumbles by.
Hang Out in the Right Places: Your best bet for spotting it is along Skipton’s High Street. Trust me, you’ll hear it before you see it.
Dress Festive: You can’t let Rudolph outshine you. Don a Christmas jumper, slap on some reindeer antlers, and join in the fun. You’re in Skipton – anything goes!
Stay Somewhere Cosy: After all the excitement of waving at Rudolph (and possibly attempting to sing carols over the engine noise), you’ll want a warm, inviting place to put your feet up. Thisledo Holiday Cottage offers the perfect escape – a traditional stone cottage with all the modern comforts you need, and yes, it’s dog-friendly. Bring your four-legged friend along for the festive cheer!

The Perfect Christmas Photo Opportunity

Here’s the thing: You’re not going to find Christmas Tractors anywhere else. This isn’t your standard Christmas parade with choreographed dancers and floats straight out of a catalogue. This is Skipton. It’s quirky, it’s charming, and it’s utterly delightful. So, grab a photo when you spot it! It’s the kind of memory that you’ll laugh about for years to come.

What Else to Do While You’re Here?

Once you’ve seen the Tractors come into town, there’s still plenty to do in Skipton to keep the festive vibes flowing:

Wander through Skipton Town Centre and enjoy the Christmas lights.
Take a canal-side stroll – a frosty winter walk through the Dales is pure magic.
Stop by a cosy pub for a pint of something seasonal. The locals are friendly, the fires are roaring, and there’s always a Yorkshire pudding or two to be found.

So, if you fancy a break filled with festive fun, laughter, and Yorkshire charm, head to Skipton this Christmas. Who needs reindeer when you can have tractors?

And when you book your stay at Thisledo Holiday Cottage, you’ll have the perfect base to sip mulled wine, and experience Christmas, Skipton-style. Just don’t forget to wave back when the world’s most festive tractors rolls by!

Happy Holidays from Skipton – Where Even the Tractors are Full of Cheer!

Watch the 2024 Tractors enter Skipton on this facebook link