I love being a travel ambassador for my home county of North Yorkshire because it is such a beautiful part of the UK, with an abundance of things to see and do. It’s all on my doorstep, so I often take it for granted. But last weekend I was a traveller in my own home county, discovering new places such as Staithes and Runswick Bay. Along with my family (including my 4 year old son), I spent 2 nights at The Workshop, a beautiful 2 bed cottage near Malton in North Yorkshire. If you’re planning your next UK weekend break, read on for my review of this cosy North Yorkshire cottage.
This blog post is part of a paid collaboration with Classic Cottages. All words are my own.
The Workshop – The perfect North Yorkshire cottage
The Workshop is a characterful, yet modern 2 bed cottage located near the market town of Malton. Converted from an 200-year old farm workshop, it is now a spacious and luxurious cottage, with heated floors, fluffy towels and premium bath products. The second bedroom can be prepared as a king size bed or two twin beds, catering for kids perfectly. French doors open onto an enclosed garden with a barbecue and seating, and a larger walled garden is also adjacent to the property.
Also located on the same estate (approximately 200m away) is Garden Cottage. Booking both properties at the same time would be an ideal option for larger groups of up to 8 or for two families looking to go away together.
Arriving at The Workshop
We arrived at The Workshop on a Friday afternoon and found it easily with the help of our sat nav, and the clear instructions from Classic Cottages. Hidden down a quiet country lane and surrounded by a scattering of other rural properties, The Workshop has its own driveway right in front of the property – handy for unloading the car.
The February air was cold, but as soon as we stepped into the cottage we felt the cosy warmth coming from the underfloor heating. The entrance hall was spacious, spotless and grand, and I instantly felt relaxed. Going through to the main downstairs living space, we were delighted to see that the wood burning stove had been pre lit, which was such a welcoming aspect of our arrival.
Waiting for us on the vintage butchers block was a welcome hamper filled with fresh farm eggs, milk, a bag of ground coffee, freshly baked bread and a jar of homemade marmalade. It was such a thoughtful touch. Whilst these things will get you started if arriving late at night, I would recommend bringing food supplies with you on arrival as the property is in a rural location with no local amenities. In terms of crockery and cooking equipment, everything you could need is provided.
Settling In at our North Yorkshire cottage
We thought ahead and brought all the supplies we needed for the weekend, including a Gousto meal for 4 which my Dad cooked up. We kept the fire going and enjoyed a cosy night in the cottage. With books, board games, and Netflix to hand, there was everything we needed for a cosy night in.
My son and I slept in the second bedroom, which can be set up as a king size bed or two large singles. The bed was incredibly comfortable and I loved hearing the pitter patter of rain on the Velux sky lights as I fell asleep. Bliss.
Luxurious touches
From the soft down-filled bedding to the fluffy towels and premium Bath House toiletries in the bathrooms, The Workshop had all the comforts you’d expect from a luxury hotel. I loved sinking into the bath tub on night 2 with my book and plenty of bubbles and bath salts. The cottage was also spotlessly clean. I really cannot fault it.
Thoughtfully catering for little ones
As a Mum, I really appreciated all the child-friendly touches of the cottage that will make life so much easier for parents of little ones. Firstly, a cot, high chair and stair gates are available and there are even plug socket protectors for curious hands.
I really appreciated the plastic beakers in the kitchen cupboards for my 4 year old, as well as the fire guard that had been set around the wood burning stove. But the best feature for little ones is the play area in the nearby walled garden, complete with Wendy house, swing, slide and climbing wall. Theo absolutely loved discovering this and it was an unexpected bonus of our stay.
Day trips from The Workshop
With The Workshop as your base, you’ll have so many amazing day trip options, many of which are under 10 miles from the property itself. As a local myself, I’ve put together my recommendations for the best day trips that are all within a 1 hour drive of the cottage.
Castle Howard (7 miles) – Castle Howard is one of the most spectacular stately homes in the whole of the UK with extensive grounds, gardens, walks and playgrounds that are equally as impressive.
York (21 miles) – My hometown needs little introduction. You cannot help but fall in love with the historical charm of York. Check out my local’s guide to York.
Whitby (28 miles) – My favourite coastal town in all of Yorkshire. As well as the beach, Whitby’s gothic history is full of character and the cobbled streets are perfect for exploring. Fish and Chips at The Magpie or Trenchers is a must.
Staithes (33 miles) – During our stay at The Workshop we chose to venture a little further to Staithes, a small coastal town which is known for its artists and galleries. Head to the Cod and Lobster in the harbour for lunch or a drink by the sea.
Runswick Bay (33 miles) – Another new discovery during our stay at The Workshop. Runswick Bay is a beautifully framed sandy beach with waves to rival Cornwall. I can’t wait to return here in summer. Pair a trip to Staithes and Runswick Bay in one day.
Saltburn-by-the-Sea (32 miles) – Another fantastic option for a coastal day trip, Saltburn beach is one of the best in Yorkshire.
PERFECT FOR KIDS;
Flamingo Land (4 miles) – From rollercoasters for thrill seekers to a fantastic conservation-led zoo, Flamingo Land is a perfect family day out.
Eden Camp (5 miles) – Little ones can learn about wartime history at this engaging and interactive museum which is set across a series of bunkers. You can even step foot inside a submarine.
North York Moors Steam Railway (8 miles) – Train enthusiasts will adore taking a trip across the North York Moors on a traditional steam train. Hop on at Pickering and go as far as Whitby.
The Workshop offers visitors the perfect North Yorkshire cottage for any staycation or UK short break. Stay from 3 nights up to 2 weeks and enjoy all that this beautiful part of England has to offer.
What did you think of my review of The Workshop? Are you currently searching for a North Yorkshire cottage or thinking of booking with Classic Cottages? If you need any further tips or advice, do leave a comment in the box below and I will get back to you. Jess x
