Friday Evening – Arriving to Warmth and Comfort

After a scenic drive through rolling dales and dry-stone villages, you’ll arrive to a warm welcome at Covill Cottages. The cottages are beautifully prepared for winter stays — toasty warm, softly lit, and with the peace of the countryside all around.
Settle in with a hot drink by the fire, or pour yourself a glass of wine and take in the views over the valley. If you don’t feel like cooking, the small village of Wath is just a short drive away and you can enjoy being saved delicious food in The Sportsman’s Arms– one of our favourite pubs. 

Saturday – Exploring Winter Nidderdale

Wake to the quiet beauty of the Dales in winter — the low sun casting long shadows over the moors and the air crisp with promise. A winter walk along Gouthwaite Reservoir is a must. It’s peaceful at this time of year, and you may spot overwintering birds such as geese, ducks, and even red kites circling above.
Afterwards, head into Pateley Bridge for a little Christmas shopping. The high street is full of independent shops and galleries — from Kendall’s Butchers and The Oldest Sweet Shop in England, to charming galleries offering Yorkshire gifts and local art and crafts. Stop by a café for a slice of homemade cake and a steaming mug of coffee before heading back to your cottage to relax.

Saturday Evening – A Taste of Yorkshire

Treat yourself to dinner at one of Nidderdale’s excellent local restaurants. The Willow Restaurant in Pateley Bridge offers delicious seasonal dishes made from Yorkshire produce, or you could venture to The Crown Inn at Lofthouse for a real country pub atmosphere beside a roaring fire.
Return to Covill Cottages for a peaceful evening under the stars. On a clear night, the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is perfect for stargazing — with minimal light pollution, the winter constellations shine brilliantly overhead.

Sunday – Slow Mornings and Scenic Farewells

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a slow start to the day — perhaps with a stroll on one of the many local walks, or simply a second cup of coffee with a view. Before you head home, take a drive up past Scar House Reservoir for dramatic winter scenery — the moorland and dam walls often dusted with frost or snow. It’s the perfect end to a tranquil weekend in the Dales.

Plan Your December Escape

Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat before Christmas or a refreshing start to the festive season, Covill Cottages offer warmth, comfort, and timeless Yorkshire charm. With peaceful surroundings, local walks straight from the door, and plenty to explore nearby, it’s the ideal setting for a winter getaway.