Guests say
Hilltop House receives glowing praise for its spaciousness, comfort, and idyllic setting in the Yorkshire Dales. Guests consistently highlight the well-equipped kitchen, luxurious beds, beautiful gardens, and the popular hot tub. The property is ideal for large family gatherings, offering plenty of space and privacy. The local pub and village charm are frequently mentioned as added bonuses. Minor issues such as limited showers, occasional maintenance niggles, and kitchen equipment constraints are noted but do not detract from overwhelmingly positive experiences.
Cleanliness is frequently praised, with multiple guests describing the house as spotless, immaculately presented, and impeccably clean. Only one review mentions carpets appearing worn and not entirely clean, but this is outweighed by the majority of positive comments.
The location is universally celebrated for its tranquillity, stunning views, and proximity to walking routes and local pubs. Guests appreciate the peaceful village setting and easy access to the Dales, with only one mention of challenging winter driving conditions.
Comfort is a standout feature, with guests repeatedly complimenting the super-comfy beds, spacious rooms, and cosy atmosphere. The property accommodates large groups without feeling crowded, and the hot tub is a favourite for relaxation.
Facilities are highly rated, with the kitchen, hot tub, gardens, and multiple living spaces receiving praise. Some guests note minor limitations, such as the Aga's restrictiveness for large meals, a need for more showers, and occasional maintenance issues, but these are rare.
Guests appreciate the helpful and attentive owners, thoughtful touches like Christmas decorations, and prompt responses to queries. While some mention the absence of a welcome pack or toiletries, these are not standard and cannot be guaranteed.
About this property
An outstanding Grade II listed detached country home set in its own grounds on the outskirts of the village of Starbotton, one of the real gems of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This former farmhouse is set within fifteen acres of gardens and grazing land and provides stunning holiday accommodation in this beautiful area. Over the years it has changed from a humble farmhouse to an elegant family home with several early Georgian additions. Various colourful characters have occupied Hilltop over the years, including a well known Huddersfield businessman who collected over 140 paintings, many of which featured Hilltop and the surrounding area, and were affectionately known as the Roebuck Collection.
From the moment guests enter, they will be enchanted by the character and charm of the place, with the old date stone 1610, exposed stoneworks, old beams, listed meat safe situated in the ceiling, tiled harlequin floors, mullioned windows, parquet floor and much more. The house features a fabulous kitchen with superb inglenook fireplace incorporating an AGA, together with hand-built units and oak and granite worktops. There is a spacious dining room with woodburning stove, piano and recessed window seat to take advantage of the lovely views of the front garden. On either side of the dining room are the sitting room, again featuring a beautiful inglenook fireplace with an open fire and the original drawing room which has a large screen TV, an ideal room for relaxing.
A useful cloakroom and a small music/library, ideal for a quiet reflective glass of wine, complete the ground floor. Upstairs are four stylish bedrooms, including one with an en-suite shower, with three other bedrooms providing spacious and flexible sleeping arrangements and all but one boasting fabulous views. Outside, in the annexe, there are a further two bedrooms, one with an en-suite shower and one with a kitchenette having the added benefit of being on the ground floor with fabulous views across the gardens and up onto the fell. Relax and enjoy the delightful walled cottage garden with herbs and mature flower beds overlooking the attached paddock; or sit back and relax in the superb hot tub where you can enjoy magnificent views of the Dales countryside.
There are numerous footpaths, circular walks and the River Wharfe on the doorstep of this luxurious cottage, plus close by are Buckden, Malham, Kettlewell, Grassington and Skipton. This excellent cottage offers a truly memorable holiday for anyone lucky enough to spend time in this beautiful location.
Nestling in the Upper Wharfedale valley between Kettlewell and Buckden, this idyllic National Park village makes the perfect place from which to explore the wonderful scenery and pretty villages of this magnificent Dale. Much of Upper Wharfedale is National Trust owned - an indication of the beauty of its classic countryside, with dry-stone walls and barns, important flower-rich hay meadows and valley side woodland. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best walking areas in the Dales, with The Dales Way passing nearby, good access to Buckden Pike and gentle walks along the riverbanks. The village itself comprises a cluster of stone built cottages and houses with, at its centre, the wonderful 'Fox and Hounds' pub serving great ales and fine food.
Accommodation
Main house: Four bedrooms: 2 x super king-size double, 1 x king-size with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x twin.
Bathroom with bath, separate shower, basin and WC.
Ground floor bathroom with bath, basin and WC.
Kitchen with dining area (seats 10), scullery and pantry.
Dining room with woodburning stove (seats 12).
Sitting room (seats 9) with open fire.
Drawing room.
Music room/library.
Annexe: Two ground floor bedrooms with access to a Jack and Jill en-suite shower, basin and WC; with kitchenette, electric cooker and fridge : 1 x king-size, 1 x twin.
Oil central heating with open fire and woodburning stove.
Electric heating in annexe.
AGA, electric oven, microwave, fridge/freezer, drinks fridge, separate freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV with Freeview, DVD, CD/radio, iPod dock, Sonos Bluetooth speaker, WiFi, selection of books, games and DVDs.
Fuel, power and starter pack for fires included in rent, additional fuel on honesty box basis.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Cot and highchair on request .
Off road parking for 6 cars.
Bike and equipment storage.
Lawned gardens with hot tub, patio and furniture, large paddock and 14 acres of grazing land.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Sorry, no parties/stags/hens or similar.
Shops 2 miles, pub 4 mins walk.
Note: Check-in 4pm.
Note: Annexe is 10 yards from main house.
This property has a Good housekeeping bond of £200.00.
Please Note: No Sunday or Bank Holiday Monday check in sorry.
Nearby points of interest
- Gordale Scar
- Hardraw Force Waterfall
Reviews (42)
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Anne
Also mo wifi in the annex was also a slight inconvenience. No welcome pack. No showergel etc But a beautiful house in a beautiful setting and just perfect for a large family group!
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Peter
We had 12 of our close family and friends from 3 yrs to 80 yrs. It just suited our needs so much with the oldies in the annex. We all sat around for breakfast in a morning and my sister aka Mrs Hall ( all creatures great and small) catered so well for us all. The facilities were amazing and the beds, no complaints from anyone. If you are looking for a tranquil and relaxing place to stay, you canât go wrong with this place.
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Celia
Beds are the most comfortable we have ever slept in. Beautiful surroundings and a large garden enhance the peace and quiet. The pub at the end of the drive serves super food. We visited for the second time and will definitely do so again.