Bishop Wilton Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Bishop Wilton Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Bishop Wilton might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to Yorkshire charm. The village itself has a lovely medieval church worth exploring - St Edith's dates from the 13th century and has some fantastic stained glass.

Just 12 miles away is York, where you'll find the magnificent York Minster (4.7/5 on TripAdvisor), the fascinating Jorvik Viking Centre (4.3/5) and the National Railway Museum (4.7/5). All are open daily 10am-5pm.

Castle Howard (YO60 7DA) is only 8 miles away and ranks as one of Britain's finest stately homes (4.6/5 on TripAdvisor). The house and gardens are open 10am-5pm most days, but check their website for seasonal variations.

The Yorkshire Wolds offer fantastic walking opportunities. I recommend the Wolds Way National Trail which passes near Bishop Wilton. The views across the rolling countryside are spectacular, especially from Garrowby Hill - the highest point in the Yorkshire Wolds.

Pet Friendly

Many cottages in Bishop Wilton welcome dogs and the area is perfect for four-legged friends. The Yorkshire Wolds have countless footpaths where dogs can run free and the quiet country lanes around the village make for peaceful walks.

The Fleece Inn (YO42 1SR) in Bishop Wilton is dog-friendly and serves good pub grub. They even keep dog treats behind the bar! Dogs are welcome in the bar area but not in the restaurant section.

Nearby Millington Woods (YO42 1TZ) is a lovely spot for dog walking, with marked trails through ancient woodland. It's especially good if your dog likes to chase squirrels (though they'll never catch one!).

If you're heading to the coast, Filey Beach has sections that allow dogs year-round. It's about 30 miles from Bishop Wilton but worth the trip for a day out. The wide sandy beach gives dogs plenty of space to run.

Remember to bring towels specifically for your dog - after a muddy walk, you'll want to clean them before they jump in the hot tub with you! (Just kidding, keep the dogs out of the hot tub).

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Bishop Wilton

1. Bishop Wilton Show - If you're lucky enough to visit in July, don't miss this traditional agricultural show. It's been running since 1889 and features livestock competitions, craft stalls and local food producers. We went last year and the sheep dog trials were amazing! The show takes place on the third Saturday in July at Bishop Wilton Showground (YO42 1SR).

2. Bugthorpe Wold - Just outside Bishop Wilton, this stunning viewpoint offers panoramic views across the Vale of York. On a clear day, you can see all the way to York Minster. It's a steep climb but absolutely worth it. Take a picnic and make an afternoon of it. One visitor told me: "It's like sitting on top of the world!"

3. St Edith's Church - This 13th century church is the heart of the village. Look out for the medieval wall paintings and unusual double piscina. The church is usually open during daylight hours. The graveyard contains interesting headstones dating back hundreds of years. A local historian sometimes gives tours - ask at the village shop for details.

Is Bishop Wilton good for families?

Yes! Kids love the open spaces and freedom of the countryside. There's a small playground in the village and nearby attractions like York Maze (YO19 5LT) and Flamingo Land (YO17 6UX) make great day trips. After a day of adventure, the hot tub at your cottage will be a hit with children and adults alike.

What's the best time of year to visit Bishop Wilton?

Each season has its charm. Spring brings lambs in the fields and wildflowers along the Wolds. Summer offers the Bishop Wilton Show and perfect walking weather. Autumn turns the Wolds golden and winter can be magical with frosty landscapes and cosy pubs with roaring fires.

Are there any good restaurants nearby?

The Fleece Inn in the village serves excellent pub food. For something fancier, try The Star Inn at Harome (YO62 5JE) about 20 miles away - it's Michelin-starred. Pocklington (4 miles) has several good restaurants including Jude's Bistro and The Feathers.

Can I get around without a car?

It's challenging. There's a limited bus service to Pocklington and York, but timetables are restricted. I'd definitely recommend bringing a car to make the most of your stay and explore the Wolds properly.

What should I pack for my Bishop Wilton cottage break?

Walking boots are essential for exploring the Wolds. Bring swimwear for the hot tub and a torch for evening walks (the village has minimal street lighting). Binoculars are useful for spotting wildlife and enjoying the views.

Is there anywhere to buy groceries in Bishop Wilton?

The village has a small shop selling essentials. For a bigger shop, head to Pocklington (4 miles) which has a Sainsbury's and several independent food shops. Many cottages offer welcome hampers with local produce - worth asking about when booking.

1. Yorkshire Wolds Tourism Information
2. Bishop Wilton Village Website
3. Yorkshire Wolds Way Information