The longest days of the year have arrived.

As we get ready to celebrate the summer solstice our 70-acre estate transforms into a wildlife paradise. With daylight stretching well into the evening, late June offers the perfect opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Yorkshire while enjoying all the luxuries our historic estate has to offer.

Here's why the last week of June might just be the most magical time to visit Red House Holiday Lets...

Evening Wildlife Watching: A Special Experience

Have you ever watched a sunset while deer graze peacefully nearby?

The extended daylight hours of late June create perfect conditions for wildlife watching. Our guests have been spotting an incredible variety of animals during the golden hour - that magical time just before sunset when the light turns warm and everything seems to glow.

From the private garden terrace at Garden House watch rabbits, hedgehogs and even a fox venture out across the estate.

The River Ouse, which borders our property, becomes a hive of activity in the early evening. Kingfishers dart along the water's edge, while lucky observers might spot otters playing in the shallows. Bring your binoculars and find a quiet spot along our riverside paths for the best chance of seeing these elusive creatures.

Summer Swimming Under the Sky

Our heated outdoor swimming pool is now in its prime.

There's something truly special about swimming outdoors on a warm summer evening, surrounded by the beauty of the Yorkshire countryside.

The pool area becomes a social hub for our guests, with families and friends gathering to cool off after days of exploration.

The pool remains open until 9pm during the summer months, allowing you to make the most of those long, light evenings that make late June so special.

Gardens in Full Bloom

June marks the peak of our summer garden displays.

The gardens are now bursting with colour. Roses climb the ancient walls, lavender borders release their calming scent, and wildflower areas attract countless butterflies and bees.

Our gardening team works year-round to ensure the estate looks its best during the summer months, with special attention paid to creating wildlife-friendly spaces that benefit both our guests and the local ecosystem.

For garden enthusiasts, the last week of June is also perfect for exploring beyond our estate. The Gargrave Open Gardens event takes place on June 21st and 22nd, offering a rare chance to discover the hidden horticultural gems of this charming Yorkshire Dales village.

Local Events and Adventures

The final week of June brings a wealth of exciting events to Yorkshire.

Families with children will love the Wallace and Gromit event at Whistlestop Valley on June 29th, where these beloved characters make special appearances throughout the day. It's just a short drive from our estate and makes for a perfect family day out.

Nature lovers should visit the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition at Sewerby Hall, running until July 13th. This world-renowned exhibition showcases the most stunning wildlife photography from around the globe - perfect inspiration before returning to capture some images of our own estate wildlife!

Food enthusiasts won't want to miss the Harrogate Food and Drink Festival on June 28th and 29th. With Yorkshire's top chefs, food producers and entertainment, it's a celebration of the region's culinary excellence just a short drive from Red House.

For those seeking a cultural experience, the Bradford Literature Festival begins on June 27th, bringing world-class authors and creative minds to Yorkshire for ten days of literary celebration.

Summer Dining Al Fresco

Long summer evenings call for outdoor dining.

Each of our cottages features its own private garden with outdoor seating areas, perfect for enjoying meals under the summer sky. All our cottages include BBQ facilities, allowing guests to make the most of the warm weather.

For those who prefer to let someone else do the cooking, we're happy to recommend excellent local pubs and restaurants with outdoor seating areas. The Alice Hawthorn in nearby Nun Monkton is a particular favourite, offering exceptional food in a beautiful garden setting.

Book Your Late June Getaway

With the summer solstice bringing the longest days of the year, late June offers a unique opportunity to experience our historic estate at its very best.

Whether you're seeking wildlife encounters, outdoor swimming, garden beauty or simply the chance to relax in the summer sunshine, Red House Holiday Lets provides the perfect setting for your Yorkshire adventure.

Our four beautifully equipped cottages - Prince Rupert (sleeps 12), Garden House (sleeps 8), Signal Cottage (sleeps 4) and Vavasour Cottage (sleeps 4) - each offer their own private garden secure for children and pets, modern comforts, and access to all the estate amenities.

Contact us today to secure your late June escape and experience the magic of midsummer in Yorkshire. Your perfect countryside retreat awaits at Red House Holiday Lets.