Dale Head Farm Shepherds Hut

Dale Head Farm Shepherds Hut is a working hill farm tucked snugly at the head of Rosedale on the edge of the North York Moors. If you’re into tea and cake, then you’ll be well placed for both here, as the farm is famed among walkers for its viewsome tea garden, who go there for views over Rosedale valley and slices of proprietor Maggie’s homemade cake.

The surrounds and skies here are made for gazing – peer across the moorland valley and settle back into your deckchair as the sun sets. Then, as night closes in, pull a blanket over your knees and stay cosily parked, for there are plenty of stars to spy too.

When you’re feeling spritely, long ambles, road or mountain bike rides and horseback hacks are how to explore the land around the farm – if you’re more of a sedentary sort, birdwatching and wildlife spotting are popular alternative activities.

The hut is comfy and warm with a woodburner to keep you toasty – in fact, while the rest of the year the area is popular with mountain bikers, during snowy weather the steep hills around here are spot on for speedy sledge rides. Whatever the weather, the pretty little arbour by the hut is a top spot to hang out in: you'll surely be snug here as you cosy up with a coffee or a glass of vino…

The site has been kitted out thoughtfully with stuff that’s handy for outdoorsy types, like a utility room with washers and dryers, as well as facilities to repair and lock up bikes; and handily for horsey peeps, the hut sits in its own paddock too, providing ample space for horses to stay. Next to the hut is a wetroom with toilet and shower, plus a standard fridge, worktops and a large sink.

In the mornings, rise to breakfasts comprising locally sourced fodder like Whitby kippers and local eggs and accompanied by the same homemade bread served up at Maggie’s tea garden.