Holiday Cottage Showdown: The Classic Stone Cottage vs. The Hipster Hideaway
9th May 2025
When it comes to choosing a holiday cottage, there’s more to think about than just the location (though the stunning Yorkshire Dales can’t be beaten). What’s really important is the vibe. Are you after something that feels like a centuries-old retreat, or are you more of a “bottle of kombucha and upcycled furniture” kind of person?
Let’s kick things off with Thisledo Holiday Cottage, a traditional stone beauty nestled in the heart of Skipton, and see how it stacks up against its more modern counterpart, the “Hipster Hideaway.”
The Exterior:
Thisledo:
A charming, dog-friendly stone cottage that looks like it could tell stories — mostly “I’ve been here for generations, and I’m still going strong, thank you very much.”
Hipster Hideaway:
Sleek. Modern. Could be mistaken for a coffee shop that hasn’t opened yet. Clean lines, eco-friendly materials, and plenty of reclaimed wood. No stone in sight — except for the Instagrammable rock garden out front. This one would fit right into a Pinterest board labelled “Minimalist with a Touch of Indie Vibes.”
The Living Room:
Thisledo:
A place to put your feet up, sip some Yorkshire Tea, and lose track of time while watching the real flame gas fire from a comfy sofas. It’s warm, inviting, and the kind of space where you’ll find yourself sinking into relaxation without even trying.
Hipster Hideaway:
Open plan, with more Scandinavian-style furniture than you thought was possible. You’ll find a minimalist sofa with throw pillows in hues you’ve never heard of (but they’re probably in some colour theory book). There’s a record player on the side, but let’s be honest — you’ll just put on a Spotify playlist and tell everyone you’re listening to the vinyl. Oh, and there’s a beanbag chair that’s been placed strategically next to a massive window overlooking… well, nature, probably.
The Kitchen:
Thisledo:
Old meets new with a modern kitchen tucked inside this beautiful cottage. It’s got all the appliances you need to cook up a Yorkshire feast, but it still feels like you’re in a home that’s been passed down for generations. You can’t help but think that it’s the kind of kitchen where people have sat down for a cup of tea after a hard day’s work in the textile mills.
Hipster Hideaway:
The kitchen here is more about style than substance — but don’t worry, you’ll have everything you need. Retro-style fridge, bespoke open shelving, and a collection of ceramic mugs you’ll feel the urge to Instagram. Bonus points if there’s a milk frother, even though you’ll probably just use it to make oat lattes that taste way better than your homebrew.
The Bathroom:
Thisledo:
Aspacious bathroom with a large shower that’ll ease away the aches and pains of dales walking
Hipster Hideaway:
Now this is where things get interesting. You’ll find a rain shower, of course, but it’s the giant copper bathtub in the middle of the room that steals the show. Perfect for those who enjoy a good soak while contemplating the existential meaning of tub time. It’s the sort of bathroom where you’ll snap 12 photos just to capture the vibe.
The Ambience:
Thisledo:
Warm, welcoming, and full of character. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time — but with a Wi-Fi connection. The perfect mix of cosy and practical, where you can curl up with a book by the gas fire or enjoy a hearty meal in the well equipped kitchen.
Hipster Hideaway:
A cool, almost clinical vibe, with clean lines and open spaces that feel perfect for a weekend of quiet reflection. The vibe here says, “I’m on a journey to find myself, but first, I need to do some yoga in the living room.” Everything is carefully curated, from the plants in the corner to the lighting that just so happens to make every evening feel like a low-budget indie movie.
Final Verdict:
If you’re after a true taste of Skipton, Thisledo Holiday Cottage is your best bet. It’s cosy, charming, and full of character, perfect for a relaxing escape where you can really embrace the charm of the town. But, if you want to try something different — maybe experience Skipton with a side of upcycled furniture and minimalist chic — the Hipster Hideaway is the place to be.
At the end of the day, it’s all about what you’re looking for. Whether you want a traditional escape or something more on the modern side, Skipton has a holiday cottage for every taste.