Cross Keys Cottage in Skipton | Stunning Group Escape LargeHolidayCottages.com

About Cross Keys Cottage

Cross Keys Cottage is a Grade II listed early 19th-century property in Skipton, North Yorkshire. This historic building has been renovated to a high standard. It combines original period features with modern luxury. The private hot tub makes it perfect for groups wanting to relax after exploring the Yorkshire Dales.

Skipton sits on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The market town offers cobbled streets and independent shops. Rolling hills and limestone scenery surround the area.

The cottage sleeps 8 guests across well-appointed spaces. Social spaces include a modern kitchen and comfortable living areas. Period features like exposed beams add character throughout.

Skipton Castle stands just minutes away in the town centre. Bolton Abbey lies 6 miles east (15 minutes drive). The Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway runs 2 miles north (5 minutes). Malham Cove sits 12 miles away (25 minutes). All offer excellent group days out.

Cross Keys Cottage suits groups wanting historic character with modern comfort. The hot tub and central location make it ideal for exploring the Dales together.

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Need To Know

✓Historic Grade II listed early 19th-century building originally a schoolmaster’s house and later a hotel/pub
✓Renovated blending original period features including exposed beams, period stonework, and elegant woodwork with modern luxury finishes
✓Four bedrooms total: three kingsize (5ft) beds and one zip and link kingsize bed configurable as two singles on request
✓Bedroom 1 located on ground floor with 1 step access, kingsize bed, Smart TV, and ensuite with cubicle shower and toilet
✓Bedroom 2 on first floor with kingsize bed, Smart TV, ensuite with cubicle shower, heated towel rail, and toilet
✓Bedroom 3 on first floor with zip and link kingsize bed (configurable as 2 singles), Smart TV, no ensuite
✓Bedroom 4 on first floor with kingsize bed, Smart TV, ensuite with bath, cubicle shower, heated towel rail, and toilet
✓One main house bathroom with bath, cubicle shower, heated towel rail, and toilet
✓Additional separate toilet located on ground floor
✓Ground floor open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area with quartz worktops, electric range cooker, Belfast sink, microwave, fridge/freezer, coffee machine, dishwasher, and other home-from-home appliances
✓Underfloor heating throughout the ground floor open-plan area
✓Gas central heating system throughout the property
✓Woodburner (wood-burning stove) in lounge area with fuel included
✓Living area features Smart TV, exposed chimney, and comfortable sofas
✓Second living room (Living room 2) with 1 step access and Smart TV
✓Snug room providing additional living space
✓Utility room present
✓Smart TVs in all four bedrooms and both main living areas
✓WiFi included throughout the property
✓Enclosed garden with patio, sitting out area, garden furniture, and a step in the garden
✓Private hot tub in garden with capacity for 6 people
✓Secure garden space suitable for one pet
✓Parking for 3 cars on-site including an electric vehicle charging point
✓Pet-friendly policy allowing one pet free of charge
✓No smoking policy throughout the property
✓Welcome pack provided on arrival
✓Bed linen and towels included in the rental
✓Electricity included in the rental price
✓Fuel for the woodburner included
✓One step to main entrance, one step into Living room 2, one step into ground floor bedroom 1, and one step in the garden; property is not fully step-free
✓Check-in time after 15:00 and check-out before 10:00
✓Located in Skipton, Yorkshire, UK with nearby Skipton train station
✓Nearby attractions include Skipton Castle, weekly market, independent shops and cafés on High Street, Skipton Woods, Leeds and Liverpool Canal, and Yorkshire Dales with walking trails and waterfalls
✓Nearby activities include walking trails, canal walks, castle visits, shopping, cafés and dining, fishing, golf, and day trips to Leeds and Bradford
✓Suitable for families, groups up to 8, pet owners, romantic getaways, rural and luxury breaks, and celebrations

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Local Insights: Cross Keys Cottage

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Skipton, Yorkshire

Weather & Local Conditions

14°C

Partly cloudy

Updated: 13 Jul 2026, 2:59am

🌡️

13.50°C

Temperature

💨

12 km/h

Wind Speed

💧

80%

Humidity

🧳

Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever July throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

✓ May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for big group days out, gardens and BBQs
✓ October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
✓ December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
✓ March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active

🌧️

Rainy Day Tip: A large cottage comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film with the whole group beat a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Cross Keys Cottage sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

🌌

Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition

This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

✓ New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
✓ Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
✓ After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
✓ Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up

📱

Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share with the whole group.

Location & Elevation

113m

(371 feet above sea level)

Cross Keys Cottage sits in a peaceful Yorkshire setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a group getaway.

🏔️

113m

Elevation

📍

Skipton

Nearest Village

🌲

Rural

Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

✓ Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
✓ Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
✓ Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
✓ Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits

🚗

Driving Note: The roads to Skipton are typical Yorkshire lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 53.9611090° N | Longitude: 2.010826° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Skipton (Monday, 13 July 2026):

3:50am

Sunrise

7:36pm

Golden Hour

8:36pm

Sunset

🌅

3:50am

Sunrise

🌇

8:36pm

Sunset

📸

7:36pm

Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

✓ Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
✓ Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
✓ Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
✓ Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day

🌙

Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (7:36pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

July Daylight

This month in Skipton, you have approximately 16.76 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the cottage.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Cross Keys Cottage.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡

Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗

Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Yorkshire. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Cross Keys Cottage

Private Hot Tub

Unwind together in your own hot tub after days exploring the Yorkshire Dales and Skipton's attractions

Grade II Listed Character

Original period features including exposed beams create authentic atmosphere whilst enjoying modern comforts throughout

Skipton Town Centre Location

Walk to shops, restaurants and Skipton Castle from this central position perfect for groups without cars

Pet Friendly Accommodation

Bring one dog along so the whole family can enjoy this Yorkshire Dales break together

Modern Kitchen Facilities

Prepare group meals easily with contemporary appliances in a well-equipped kitchen space for larger gatherings

Yorkshire Dales Gateway

Access Bolton Abbey, Malham Cove and stunning walking routes within minutes of the cottage door

Getting To Cross Keys Cottage

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Cross Keys Cottage by car, take the A65 into Skipton town centre. The cottage is centrally located with off-road parking available for your group upon arrival.

By Train

Skipton railway station sits in the town centre with regular services from Leeds and Bradford. The cottage is a short walk or taxi ride from the station making it accessible for groups travelling by rail.

Off-road parking available

Skipton station (0.5 miles)

Central Skipton location on A65

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Skipton Castle

Distance: 0.3 miles

BD23 1AW

Bolton Abbey

Distance: 6 miles

BD23 6EX

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

Distance: 2 miles

BD23 6AX

Malham Cove

Distance: 12 miles

BD23 4DJ

Skipton Woods

Distance: 1 mile

BD23 1PP

Aire Valley Towpath

Distance: 0.5 miles

BD23 1UD

Skipton High Street

Distance: 0.2 miles

BD23 1DT

Craven Court Shopping Centre

Distance: 0.3 miles

BD23 1PS

Skipton Market

Distance: 0.2 miles

BD23 1AB

Skipton Bus Station

Distance: 0.4 miles

BD23 1DX

Tesco Superstore

Distance: 0.8 miles

BD23 2AB

Aireville Park

Distance: 0.6 miles

BD23 1LP

Skipton Castle

Distance: 0.3 miles

BD23 1AW

Bolton Abbey

Distance: 6 miles

BD23 6EX

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

Distance: 2 miles

BD23 6AX

Malham Cove

Distance: 12 miles

BD23 4DJ

Skipton Woods

Distance: 1 mile

BD23 1PP

Aire Valley Towpath

Distance: 0.5 miles

BD23 1UD

Skipton High Street

Distance: 0.2 miles

BD23 1DT

Craven Court Shopping Centre

Distance: 0.3 miles

BD23 1PS

Skipton Market

Distance: 0.2 miles

BD23 1AB

Skipton Bus Station

Distance: 0.4 miles

BD23 1DX

Tesco Superstore

Distance: 0.8 miles

BD23 2AB

Aireville Park

Distance: 0.6 miles

BD23 1LP

Is Cross Keys Cottage Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families

Skipton offers excellent activities for children in groups. The castle provides interactive tours and events. Embsay Steam Railway runs family-friendly services just 2 miles away. Aireville Park has playgrounds and open spaces. Bolton Abbey Estate offers riverside walks and stepping stones. The town centre has cafes and ice cream shops. Yorkshire Dales walks suit families with older children wanting outdoor adventures together.

Groups Will Love...

The private hot tub at Cross Keys Cottage provides the perfect group feature. After days exploring Skipton Castle or walking the Yorkshire Dales, everyone can gather and relax together. The hot tub sits exclusively for your party's use throughout the stay. It combines perfectly with the cottage's historic character and modern renovation. Groups can enjoy evenings unwinding under the Yorkshire skies in complete privacy.

Pet Friendly

Cross Keys Cottage welcomes one dog to join your group holiday. The central Skipton location provides easy access to Yorkshire Dales walking routes. Skipton Woods sits 1 mile away with dog-friendly trails. The Aire Valley Towpath offers flat walks along the canal. Bolton Abbey Estate permits dogs on leads across most areas. Local pubs welcome dogs making it easy to include your pet in group outings.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Cross Keys Cottage

The Woolly Sheep Inn

Located 0.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: BD23 1DT

Bizzie Lizzies Cafe

Located 0.3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: BD23 1EG

The Narrow Boat

Located 0.4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: BD23 1RU

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Cross Keys Cottage

Is Cross Keys Cottage pet friendly?

Yes, the cottage welcomes one dog. Your pet can enjoy the historic property and nearby Yorkshire Dales walks with the group.

How many people does the cottage sleep?

The property accommodates groups across multiple bedrooms with period features. Several bathrooms serve guests throughout the historic building.

Is there parking at the cottage?

Off-road parking is provided at the property. This makes it easy for groups arriving by car to unload and explore Skipton.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Standard check-in and check-out times apply to this property. Contact the owner directly for specific arrival and departure arrangements for your group.

Is the hot tub private?

Yes, the hot tub is exclusively for your group's use. It's perfect for relaxing together after exploring the Yorkshire Dales and local attractions.

Can we walk to Skipton town centre?

The cottage sits in a central Skipton location. Shops, restaurants, pubs and Skipton Castle are all within easy walking distance.

What facilities are in the kitchen?

The modern kitchen includes contemporary appliances for preparing group meals. It combines practical functionality with the cottage's historic character throughout.

Are there good walks nearby for groups?

The Yorkshire Dales National Park borders Skipton with countless walking routes. Bolton Abbey, Malham Cove and local trails offer options for all abilities.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Cross Keys Cottage Reviews

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Cross Keys Cottage, Skipton

About Cross Keys Cottage

Need To Know

More Group Cottages You May Like

Weather & Local Conditions

What to Expect Through the Year

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Bortle Scale Rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

Best Stargazing Conditions

Location & Elevation

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

Coordinates

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Planning Your Days by Season

July Daylight

Practical Essentials

Mobile Phone Signal

Nearest Essentials

Family & Fun

What Guests Love

Private Hot Tub

Grade II Listed Character

Skipton Town Centre Location

Pet Friendly Accommodation

Modern Kitchen Facilities

Yorkshire Dales Gateway

Getting To Cross Keys Cottage

By Car

By Train

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Is Cross Keys Cottage Right For Your Group

For Families

Groups Will Love...

Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

The Woolly Sheep Inn

Bizzie Lizzies Cafe

The Narrow Boat

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Name

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Cross Keys Cottage Reviews