NESTLED in the Yorkshire Dales, you will find a camping and glamping site with a twist.
Instead of your usual glamping pods, at Catgill Farm, you can stay in Moroccan and Alpine-themed pods.
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Catgill Farm in Yorkshire features a number of pods with different themesCredit: Catgill ParkFor example, there is a Moroccan-inspired podCredit: Catgill Park
For example, the Alpine-themed pod has a converted ski lift cart outside that is now a booth to sit and eat in.
The Moroccan-themed pod features sleek styling, with bold pinks and oranges and sleeps up to four people via a bunk bed and a double bed.
If you are travelling with your four-legged best friend, then there are options for you as well such as The Duck glamping pod, which has an enclosed outdoor area for your pooch to roam in.
Each of the glamping pods comes with its own private, log-fired hot tub as well.
And for the evenings, you can set light to the fire pit for warmth and barbeques.
Fancy something a little more like camping but still a little refined? Then opt for one of the two luxury bell tents that sleep up to four people.
And of course, they all have views of the rolling Yorkshire Dales.
At night, guests can also make the most of stargazing as the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a designated dark skies area of the UK.
If you do have your own tent, then there is a campsite open between April and October as well, which features 34 electrical hookup pitches.
On-site there are also alpacas known to join morning yoga sessions and a playing field for letting off some steam.
As for facilities, there is everything you could need including modern shower blocks, a washing up area and even a small shop selling essentials such as air beds, coffee, milk and kindling.
If you don’t fancy cooking for yourself, you can grab some food from Cat’s Kitchen which is onsite, serving up hot drinks and wood-fired pizzas.
When it comes to the local area, you’ll be surrounded by amazing walking and cycling routes (even the Tour de France and Tour de Yorkshire routes).
Just a short walk from the campsite itself, you will reach Bolton Abbey Station on the Embsay and Bolton Steam Railway line.
And they all have views of the Yorkshire DalesCredit: Catgill ParkAlternatively, you could stay in a safari-style bell tentCredit: Catgill Park
The station is in the style of the original Midland Railway from the 1800s and a ticket to travel to the half way station and back costs £17 per adult.
Not much further from the campsite, you will find the remains of Bolton Abbey which you can explore.
If you walk for 15 minutes from the glamping and campsite, you will reach the Devonshire Arms brasserie-style pub serving dishes such as sirloin steak and roast beef.
When you stay at Catgill Farm, you can also get 10 per cent off of Shipton Canal Boat Trips and also 10 per cent off of entry to Stump Cross Caverns.
Stays cost from £179.99 per night for one of the glamping pods or from £14 a night for a grass tent pitch.
What’s it like to stay at Catgill Farm?
SUN writer Jamie Harkin recently visited Catgill Farm and here is what he thought…
With a glittering trail of fairy lights as our only guide, my partner Katie and I followed the hill path up to a gorgeous secluded lodge.
Nestled deep within a wooded section of the stunning Yorkshire Dales that locals refer to as ‘God’s own country’, sits Catgill Farm – a working farm that is home to a selection of luxury glamping pods.
Each has everything you need to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery without having to freeze yourself half to death to do it.
Our home for two nights was the Swiss ski Station pod. A chic apres ski-themed lodge with just the right amount of kitsch, and perfect for enjoying the beauty of the autumnal surroundings.
The attention to detail was immaculate, from the little red and white striped table, to the miniature cable car dining set up outside, it felt like the Alps, although in a destination that’s just a few hours drive away.
It was a joy to take in the rolling hills while we cooked dinner on the outdoor barbeque.
And to top it all, we had our own spacious, log-fired hot tub, where we could take in the surrounding beauty while relaxing in warm, bubbly bliss.
OUR neighbour across the English Channel is officially the most-visited country in the world.
France has everything, from top class skiing in the mountainous Alps, to incredible campsites, beautiful beaches and glamorous seaside cities.
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Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire has found a St Tropez alternativeCredit: AlamyMorzine in the Alps is a beautiful spot for skiing – or even husky sledgingCredit: Alamy
According to EuroNews, France has retained its title of being the ‘world’s most visited country’ – and even beat its own record.
In 2024, it recorded 100million visitors and in 2025 topped that with 102million travellers.
As seasoned travellers to France, here’s where Sun Travel recommends for anyone heading over there.
Sainte Maxime
If you want an affordable alternative to St Tropez, Head of Sun (Digital) Caroline McGuire has a must-visit spot.
She said: “The first time I holidayed in Sainte Maxime was 30 years ago and while it has grown in popularity since then, the seaside town retains its elegant and traditional charm.
“Known as the ‘low-key little sister’ to the world famous, mega bouji St. Tropez (which can be reached via 15-minute ferry from the town’s port), Sainte Maxime offers the same kind of relaxed, Provencal vibe for considerably less money.
“If you’re looking for a fun-filled family stay, Eurocamp’s five-star Prairies De La Mer holiday park is just 15 minutes down the road by bus.”
La Rochelle
Travel Reporter Alice Penwill has a lot of memories from holidaying in France. She said: “As a child, a lot of my summerholidays consisted of taking the ferry from Dover to Calais and then driving onwards.
“One of my most memorable breaks was in the coastal city of La Rochelle in southwestern France.
“Going in the height of summer, temperatures can be incredibly high and I remember cooling off and splashing about in the sea on Plage des Minimes.
“That was until it was time to leave and look for well-needed shade which we found within the historic city. There’s lots to see there too and plenty of little cafes to stop at by the waterfront.
“For those who are a fan of seafood, you can’t really go wrong here with plenty being caught off the Bay of Biscay and served up fresh in the local restaurants.”
Camp Du Domaine, Bormes Les Mimosas – Lisa
Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot has a firm favourite place when it comes to holidaying in France, she explained: “One seaside village on the Cote d’Azur holds such a special place in my heart I have returned nearly every year for 50 years!
“My parents first took us to Camp du Domaine, a 5* beachfront campsite when I was six years old. And I have returned to the site nearly every year since – bringing my own family too.
“The village of Bormes itself tumbles down the hills of the Massif des Maures – a maze of pretty medieval streets and stone alleyways.
“It is known as a ‘village fleurie’ for the gorgeous flowers that adorn the hamlet – particularly the yellow mimosa that blooms from January to March.
“And our campsite sits on the coast at La Faviere with its vast swathe of sandy beach. We bring our caravan but the site also features a host of bungalows that dot the pine-covered hills of the site.”
Lisa loves the Camp Du Domaine so much she and her family go back every yearAt an alpine region recommended by Sophie – you can even go husky sleddingCredit: Supplied
Morzine
Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski revealed her top town in the Alps: “Morzine is famed for its picturesque, powdery ski slopes, with a huddle of smaller mountains in the main town, overlooking cosy restaurants that dish up tartiflette by the bucket load.
“There’s so much more to it than this, though. The peaks are just as beautiful in the summer months, transforming into grassy trails for mountain bikers, while its waterways are great for rafting.
“If you’re not much of a skier or snowboarder, husky sledding is an experience that will blow you away.
“You’ll soar along untrodden paths in a fur-lined sled pulled by a galloping pack, taking in the sights at speed.
“The Alps resort is so action-packed it can easily be described as an adventure playground for adrenaline junkies.
“But if you do want to take things at a more leisurely pace, take advantage of some of the serene spas or book onto a snowshoeing experience through the wintry woodland – keep your eyes peeled for birds including the golden eagle and buzzards.”
Brittany
Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding is a fan of northern France. She said: “The Brittany region in northwest France features a fairytale-like city called Quimper.
“When visiting you will be wowed by the amount of historic, quaint buildings. Meander around the medieval Old Town – you will find the Gothic Saint-Corentin Cathedral and streets lined with Breton Gothic architecture.
“Many of the houses are half-timbered with overhanging upper stories, making you feel as if you have stepped into the scenes of a Disney princess movie.
“The name actually originates from the Breton term ‘kemper’, which means ‘confluence’, referring to the three rivers that meet in the city.
“For those who love gifts, independent makers and crafts, the city is a haven as it is full of pottery-making spots and even an artistic embroidery school.
“It’s full of charm, but not so many tourists making it the ideal alternative French destination.”
Quimper in northern France looks like a ‘fairytale’ townCredit: AlamyLa Rosiere is a lesser-known but great ski spot for snow sport enthusiastsCredit: Alamy
La Rosiere
Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire revealed one of her favourite ski spots, and you might not have heard of it.
She said: “La Rosiere isn’t one of the best-known French ski resorts, but its high altitude means that you are far more likely to get decent snow than other locations.
“The lesser-known quality, and the lack of big hotels, means that the village has also retained much of its charm, with plenty of quaint little cafes and restaurants.
“The best of the best being L’Ancolie, a log cabin-style restaurant with open fires and red checked curtains that serves favourites like fondue, raclette and a pudding with meringue, chocolate sauce and ice cream that was so delicious it still makes its way into family discussions, two years on.
“When it comes to skiing itself, I can think of no better destination for a child to learn the ropes, with plenty of kid-friendly green slopes and blue runs.
“La Rosiere is relatively small, but with 83 runs of varying difficulty, it kept us very happy for a whole week.
“We stayed with Ski Beat, at a catered-chalet that was literal spitting distance of the ski school (helpful when you’re trying to coax a little one into their uncomfortable boots pre-9am.”
Paris
And of course, how can you take a trip to France without seeing the country’s capital, Paris?
Travel Reporter Alice Penwill went to Paris and back in one day on the Eurostar, and here’s what she got up to: “As someone who had never been to the city before, a day trip was a lovely introduction.
“I headed to the beautiful Musee d’Orsay to see impressionist artwork by the likes of Monet, Degas, Renoir and Vincent Van Gogh.
“Then I walked along the Left Bank of the Seine all the way towards Notre Dame, where I stopped by the famous Shakespeare And Company bookshop.
“There’s plenty of places to stop by with a food tour too – make sure to stop by the Jewish Quarter for a tasty pastrami sandwich.
“I’m sure I’ll go back to the city soon – and hopefully I’ll get to even spend more than one day exploring it.”
“Its cobblestone streets, which remain peacefully quiet in the peak months, have an old world feel to them.
“This may be partly down to its mighty chateau, which prides itself in its historic equestrian training with public demonstrations taking place regularly throughout the year.
“You’ll likely spot the horses in training if you take a stroll around its magnificent grounds, too. Don’t forget to poke your head inside if you’re a fan of art through the ages, because this grand building houses the second largest collection of antique paintings after the Louvre.
“And let’s not forget what Chantilly is truly famous for: its special whipped cream, first created in the 17th century and still a much loved dessert today.
“Not only will you find Chantilly cream on every restaurant menu in the small town centre but you can also join masterclasses led by one of the “whipping knights” (essentially an expert), where you’ll learn the exact technique.
“Be prepared to return to your hotel with an aching arm, because tradition states that it must be whipped by hand.”
Lille
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey would recommend a trip to one destination you can easily get to from the Eurostar, she said: “The city of Lille makes for the perfect weekend break or even a quick 24 hour trip.
“Being just one stop on the Eurostar from the UK, it’s quicker for me to get to the French city than it is to commute to the office, in fact.
“Nicknamed Little Paris, it is certainly easier to get around than the capital as well.
“It even has its own ‘Arc de Triomphe,’ albeit in the form of the small 17th-century Porte de Paris in the middle of a roundabout.
“Otherwise hop in a retro Citroen 2CV for a car tour of the city, grab a famous vanilla cream waffle from Meert and end with drinks at the rooftop Nu before hopping on the train home.
“Don’t fancy a day trip? Spend the night at the city’s Mama Shelter, complete with vintage games consoles and fantastic on-site restaurant.”
The pretty seaside town of Trouville-sur-Mer has been popular since the 1800sCredit: Getty
Trouville-Sur-Mer
Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire has a favourite seaside town too, she said: “Trouville-sur-Mer is just 50 minutes from the ferry port at Caen, which can be reached via a six-hour ferry crossing from Portsmouth.
“The quaint seaside town has been popular with holidaymakers since the 1800s, thanks to its huge sandy beach and fabulous cuisine. But it has resolutely kept its quaint charm.
“Yes, there’s a kids’ arcade but it’s tucked into the basement of the glamorous casino. Yes, there’s crazy golf but it’s petite, just off the old-fashioned wooden boardwalk surrounded by grand 19th-century mansions.
“This particular area is famous for its crepes, so we made it our mission to sample as many as possible — with chocolate, ice cream and seafood.
“Given its Channel-front location, the town is also very big on moules — we even spotted a pizza piled high with them.
“And you’re spoilt for choice for groceries, thanks to the town’s twice-weekly street market, where verything from shucked oysters and giant tomatoes to the stinkiest cheese and hot coq-au-vin is on sale.”
A HUGE new family campsite is opening at a historic UK holiday park this summer.
Billing Aquadrome in Northampton is one of the oldest holiday parks in the UK dating back to 1945 when it opened shortly after World War II.
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Billing Aquadrome is reopening a family camping area after a £17million transformationCredit: Meadow Bay VillagesBilling Aquadrome has a aqua assault course, play area and funfairCredit: Instagram/willowlakewaterpark
Sitting on 235 acres the resort has everything from a caravan site and funfair to a marina.
And now it is reintroducing its family camping offering for the 2026 season, after undergoing a massive revamp.
In the refreshed family camping area, guests will find 150 electric pitches as well as an amenities block and a play area.
Nikki Rathie, holidays director at Billing Aquadrome, said: “The return of camping for 2026 is something we know many families have been eagerly awaiting.
“By reintroducing a premium family camping experience, we’re able to offer a much-loved family holiday experience at Billing Aquadrome which complements the other holiday styles on offer.
“This launch marks an exciting new chapter for the park following a year of major investment and regeneration.”
The park is also undergoing a massive £17million regeneration.
This includes new restaurants, the waterside Lake Club, Willow Lakes Aquapark, a BMX pump track, a Himalayan Adventure Golf Course and Adventure Island.
There is a newly opened Zen Den too, for families needing to escape the noise.
By the end of this year, a new indoor entertainment venue will also open.
Campers will also get access to all of Billing Aquadrome’s attractions such as the indoor swimming pool, which has a toddlers’ splash zone and a flume slide.
And guests can also enjoy a programme of activities and live performances including drive-in movie nights, Tough Mudder, an aqua assault course and paddleboard hire.
Guests won’t be charged extra for bringing a dog, having a gazebo or pup tent or any extra equipment.
There is a premium camping experience available as well with 150 electric pitches measuring eight metres by 10 metres.
Bookings for the new family campsite launch on March 26.
However, from February 17, families can sign up to be the first to know when bookings go live.
The Northampton holiday park is one of the oldest in the UK dating back to 1945Credit: Meadow Bay VillagesAnd it has other accommodation available too, such as glampingCredit: Instagram/billingaquadrome
As part of the launch, 26 families from this sign-up list will each win a three-night break.
When it comes to the cost per night, prices will vary but current pitches available to book on Billing Aquadrome’s website cost from £25 a night during the summer holidays.
If you don’t fancy camping, Billing Aquadrome also has an array of other accommodation types including glamping.
For example, you could stay in one of their static caravans for two nights (midweek) for £129.
And for convenience when staying, there is an on-site shop, hair and beauty salon and a laundrette.
In other holiday park news, UK holiday park with its own shopping village, theatre and golf course plunges into administration.
Current prices for camping pitches cost from £25 per nightCredit: Instagram/billingaquadromeBookings for the new camping area open in MarchCredit: Meadow Bay Villages
