Read our review of West Cawthorne in North Yorkshire.

Where is it? 

Peaceful North Yorkshire retreat: West Cawthorne in the Vale of Pickering. Tucked amid 26 acres of farmland, it’s a collection of four beautifully curated properties designed for rest and reconnection.

What’s the accommodation like?

Our home for a few nights was South Range Barn, a former stone farm building lovingly reimagined by owners Rich and Sophie. Ancient meets modern here: an oak-framed structure with vast picture windows framing the bucolic views of the Pickering Vale. Heated resin floors and neutral tones give the space a calm, contemporary edge. The two main bedrooms have luxurious en suites, creating an overall sense of soothing simplicity.

On sunny days, the floor to ceiling sliding doors open onto a dining terrace with a fire pit and jacuzzi, which sits beneath an oak-beam pergola – a perfect spot for sunset suppers or stargazing dips.

Where did you eat and drink?

The nearby market town of Malton, Yorkshire’s self-proclaimed foodie capital, is a must for food lovers. Its cobbled streets are packed with artisan producers, indie cafés and cosy coaching inns. We ducked down a side alley to Bluebird Bakery for a still-warm loaf and a selection of sweet treats for later, before settling in for a cosy lunch at The Talbot Inn for a comforting lunch. My trout and pea risotto was perfectly seasoned, light, fresh and full of local flavour. For a real treat, book dinner at the Michelin-starred The Star Inn in the pretty village of Harome. This thatched gem is as warm and welcoming as its menu is accomplished. Highlights included the Jerusalem artichoke ‘Magnum’ with Harome honey, a clever savoury 'dessert' and a showstopping baked raspberry soufflé with Parma Violet ice-cream. Alternatively, take a short trip to The Blacksmiths Arms in the quaint village of Lastingham, on the southern edge of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Expect friendly locals and a menu of hearty British classics, including a generous homemade shortcrust steak and ale pie. And don’t leave without picking up one of their superb homemade chutneys.

What is there to do? 

• Meet the Maker: Calum Balding of Kingmaker Studios, artist-in-residence at West Cawthorne, creates original landscape works inspired by the estate’s panoramic views – many available to buy.

• Enjoy midnight stargazing. West Cawthorne is situated near an International Dark skies reserve 

• Explore the Roman Camp trail from the estate. 

• Visit Castle Howard and historic York, both an easy drive away. 

• Walk or cycle across the North York Moors National Park. 

• Take a trip to the old fishing village of Staithes, with its cobbled streets, cliff-side cottages and harbour views, perfect for a coastal stroll and a pint at the Cod & Lobster.