The Ultimate Family Glamping Guide: Safari Tent Adventures in Yorkshire
Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the River Ure flowing past your safari tent, whilst your children excitedly plan the day's adventures from the comfort of your heated beds.
At Riverdale Yorkshire, nestled in the heart of North Yorkshire's stunning countryside, we've thoughtfully designed our safari tents to offer something truly special for families. They're the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and home comforts, giving parents peace of mind whilst letting children experience the magic of sleeping under canvas.
WHY SAFARI TENTS ARE PERFECT FOR FAMILY GLAMPING IN YORKSHIRE
The Best of Both Worlds for Every Family Member
Safari tent holidays offer what we like to call the "perfect balance", all the excitement of camping with none of the hassle or bad backs! Your children get the thrill of sleeping in a tent and toasting marshmallows around the fire pit, whilst parents can enjoy heated beds, hot showers, and a fully equipped kitchen.
For Parents:
Spacious accommodation with separate bedrooms for privacy
Fully equipped kitchens with 4-zone hob, microwave, and fridge
Heated beds and electric blankets for comfortable and cosy nights sleep
Luxury rainfall showers and flushing toilets in the bathroom
Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces where children can play freely
For Children:
The excitement of "camping" without the discomfort
Outdoor fire pits for marshmallow toasting and storytelling
Cabin beds and den areas for their own special space
BBQ areas for family outdoor cooking adventures
Direct access to riverside walks and woodland
For Teenagers:
Private cabin beds with wooden doors for privacy (Available with Damselfly sleeps 8 and Butterfly sleeps 8)
Smart TVs with WIFI for those essential social media moments
Outdoor spaces perfect places to hangout
Walking distance to West Tanfield village to get the family holiday treats
For Dogs:
Safe, enclosed outdoor areas where they can roam freely without leads
Direct access to riverside walks and woodland exploration
Enclosed decking perfect for relaxing and keeping watch
Dog-friendly local pubs just a 5-minute walk away
Heated dog wash area with shampoo, towels, and brushes for after those muddy adventures
WHY RIVERDALE SAFARI TENTS CREATE THE PERFECT FAMILY GLAMPING EXPERIENCE
DISCOVER OUR FOUR tents:
Mayfly Safari Tent (sleeps 6)
Dragonfly Safari Tent (sleeps 6)
Damselfly Safari Tent (sleeps 8)
Butterfly Safari Tent with Hot Tub (Sleeps 8)
Thoughtfully Designed for Families - each offer unique features:
2 bedrooms (Mayfly & Dragonfly) or 2 bedrooms plus king-sized cabin bed (Damselfly & Butterfly)
Open-plan living areas perfect for family time
Private bathrooms with rainfall showers and flushing toilets
Fully equipped kitchens to get the whole family involved in meal prep
Log-burning stoves with unlimited free logs
Safe, enclosed outdoor areas where children can play freely
BBQ and fire pit areas for outdoor family cooking
Hot tub (exclusive use of those staying at Butterfly Safari Tent ) for the ultimate luxury experience
THE Riverdale Yorkshire Difference
Location, Location, Location: Set beside the River Ure in the Yorkshire Dales foothills, you're perfectly positioned for both relaxation and adventure.
Family-Focused Approach: From cabin beds for children to enclosed outdoor spaces for safe play, every detail is designed with families in mind.
Adventure on Your Doorstep: Why drive for hours and get stuck in traffic when family favourite attractions are just minutes away!
Comfort: Unlike traditional camping, our safari tents offer luxury in every season, from heated beds to perfect outdoor spaces. (Season runs April - October)
Dog-Friendly Excellence: We don't just allow dogs, we welcome them! With secure outdoor areas, dog washing facilities, and direct access to fantastic walks, your four-legged family members will love safari tent life as much as you do.
Riverdale safari tents create the perfect environment for families to reconnect whilst offering space for everyone's needs.
SAFARI TENTS VS TRADITIONAL ACCOMMODATION
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE CANVAS
Unlike hotel rooms or holiday cottages, safari tents create a unique shared experience. The open-plan living areas encourage quality family time, whilst the outdoor spaces mean children can play safely whilst parents relax with a cup of tea or coffee on the decking. It's glamping that brings families together whilst still offering everyone their own space. And dogs absolutely love the freedom of safari tent life, so there is no worrying about holiday cottage rules.
Day Trips That Create Lasting Family Memories
Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park (10 minutes drive) The guest favourite mentioned in many of our reviews. Over 40 rides and attractions suitable for all ages, from gentle rides for toddlers to thrilling adventures for teenagers.
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal (20 minutes drive) UNESCO World Heritage Site with:
Large adventure playground near the visitor centre
Abbey ruins perfect for hide-and-seek
Beautiful gardens for family picnics
Educational trails suitable for all ages
Brimham Rocks (30 minutes drive) Nature's own adventure playground featuring:
Amazing rock formations for scrambling
Pathways perfect for family cycling
Wildlife spotting opportunities
Acres of moorland to explore
The Forbidden Corner (30 minutes drive) An eccentric labyrinth of tunnels and chambers set in a four-acre garden, offering a unique adventure for families. A one-of-a-kind family adventure in the Yorkshire Dales featuring:
A maze of tunnels, chambers, and secret passageways
Talking sculptures, optical illusions, and eccentric surprises
Interactive treasure hunt with a checklist for kids
Beautiful gardens and follies to explore
Seasonal events and quirky photo opportunities throughout the year
Yorkshire Wildlife Park (45 minutes drive) Home to over 200 rare and endangered animals including:
The largest collection of polar bears in the world
Lions, tigers, and black rhinos
Interactive exhibits perfect for children
Educational programs for all ages
Seasonal Adventures
Spring & Summer (April-August):
Mountain biking at Yorkshire Dales Bike Centre
Paddleboarding expeditions in Ripon with SUP Yorkshire
Bluebell wood walks directly from your tent (peak season April-May)
Baby animals at local farms and attractions
Perfect walking/hiking weather as nature wakes up from Yorkshire winters
Long summer evenings perfect for fire pit gatherings and outdoor adventures
Autumn (September-October):
Cosy fireside evenings with hot chocolate and stories as the nights draw in
Crisp autumn walks along frosty, misty riverbanks
Stunning autumn colours in the surrounding woodlands
Perfect stargazing weather with clear autumn skies
Autumn festivals in nearby areas (The Masham Sheep Fair, the Yorkshire Dales Cheese Festival, and the Dark Skies Fringe Festival)
Some great all-year round resources and things to do
ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES THAT MAKE YORKSHIRE PERFECT FOR FAMILY HOLIDAYS
On Your Doorstep Adventures
River Ure Walks: Step straight from your tent onto the 1.5-mile family loop that takes you along the river, through bluebell woods (in spring), and to the local village pub. Perfect for little legs and completely safe. Dogs love this walk too with plenty of interesting smells and safe spaces to explore off-lead.
West Tanfield Village: A 5-minute walk brings you to this charming village with:
Two dog-friendly pubs with children's menus
Village shop for treats and essentials
Marmion Tower - A 15th-century gatehouse managed by English Heritage, offering insights into medieval architecture. It's free to visit and located next to St Nicholas Church
St Nicholas Church - Dating back to the 12th century, this church showcases historical architecture and is open to visitors
Thornborough Henges: Often referred to as the "Stonehenge of the North," these Neolithic monuments are a short drive away and provide a glimpse into ancient history.
Suggested Itinerary for a Family Glamping Getaway in Yorkshire
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
Morning: Arrive at your tent. Guests normally comment on how amazed they are by the luxury interior and facilities as they get settled in and unpack.
Afternoon: Explore your enclosed outdoor area with the fire pit and family seating, and take your first riverside walk along our 1.5-mile family loop.
Evening: First BBQ experience and marshmallow toasting as the sun sets over the Yorkshire countryside.
Day 2: Local Adventure Day
Morning: Visit Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park (just 10 minutes away) mentioned in many guest reviews as a family favourite.
Afternoon: Return for lunch and relaxation, perhaps try Riverdale’s sauna and cold plunge (adults only) whilst children play safely in the enclosed area, or enjoy the hot tub if you're staying in the Butterfly Safari Tent.
Evening: Family movie night on the smart TV or tell stories around the fire pit.
Day 3: Historical Exploration
Morning: Explore Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with its large adventure playground.
Afternoon: Discover Brimham Rocks nature's own adventure playground with amazing rock formations for children to explore.
Evening: Family games and stargazing from your decking (We highly recommend the Star Walk 2 app it's brilliant for identifying constellations and makes stargazing magical for children)
Day 4: Yorkshire Dales Adventure
Morning: Visit the charming market town of Masham for local produce, gifts and exploration.
Afternoon: Hackfall Woods is a magical woodland with waterfalls. Great for climbing trees and making dens.
Evening: Cook together on the BBQ and talk about the adventures so far.
WHAT GUESTS SAY ABOUT RIVERADLE SAFARI TENT HOLIDAYS
“The kids loved staying in the tent and there was lots of space for them to run around and have fun. They also enjoyed a day at Lightwater Valley theme park, which is just 10 minutes down the road, plus a few walks along the riverbank.”
“The safari tent was brilliant and warm as toast with the log burner on. The kids (9 and 4) loved it. ”
“Absolutely fantastic place to stay with your dogs. We stayed in a Safari Tent and it was just brilliant. What an idyllic location, lovely walks and the accommodation and grounds are immaculate. The Tent was equipped with everything you could possibly need, and the enclosed garden was perfect for a stay with dogs or young children. Thank you to Will the new owner, he made us feel so welcome and nothing was too much trouble for him. We’ll definitely be back!”
IDEAS ON WHAT TO Pack FOR YOUR HOLIDAY
For the Children:
Comfortable outdoor clothing for all weather
Wellies for muddy adventures
Games and books for quiet time
Their favourite teddy or comfort blanket for sleeping in a new place
For Parents:
Layers for changeable Yorkshire weather
Camera/phone for capturing magical moments
Your favourite tipple for those fireside evenings
Comfortable walking shoes to explore the Yorkshire countryside
Family Essentials:
Water bottles
Marshmallows and hot chocolate for those evenings around the fire pit
Picnic supplies and back packs for day trips
Books for evening reading (Each tent comes with a torch for storytelling by the fire)
For Your Dog:
Dog food and treats
Travel dog bowl and water
Lead and collar with ID tag
Dog bed or blanket plus dog towels if they like a dip in the River Ure
Your dog/s favourite toys so they settle easily in a new environment
RIVERDALE MANAGER - WILL QUARMBY
“The safari tents are perfect for families with children of all ages as you can enjoy your own room with a double bed whilst children or teenagers can stay in the double cabin bed with wooden doors giving them that extra bit of privacy.”
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR STAY
Book Early: Our family friendly glamping at Riverdale Yorkshire is incredibly popular, especially during school holidays
Plan Flexibly: Yorkshire weather can be unpredictable, so have both outdoor and indoor activity options!
Embrace the Experience: Let children help with BBQ cooking and fire lighting (Supervised of course), it's all part of the tent and glamping adventure
Connect with Nature: This is the perfect chance to slow down and focus on each other. We find families who agree on some phone-free time get the most out of their stay.
START PLANNING YOUR FAMILY ADVENTURE
Ready to create those magical family memories in the heart of Yorkshire? Riverdale's safari tents combine the excitement of glamping with the luxury, safety and space that families need.
Perfect for:
Families with children of all ages (6-8 people depending on tent choice)
Multi-generational holidays
Special celebrations and milestones
Anyone seeking adventure who also wants a comfortable base
Dog-loving families who want everyone included in the adventure (Ideal if your dog finds kennel stays distressing)
Where luxury meets adventure in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Family holidays that create memories to last a lifetime.
How to Book Your Stay:
Visit our safari tent pages to explore Mayfly & Dragonfly (both sleep 6) or Damselfly & Butterfly (both sleep 8)
Butterfly Safari Tent features an exclusive hot tub for the ultimate luxury experience
Already know which tent you’d like? Check availability and book directly here
Not sure which tent is right for you? Get in touch and we’ll be happy to help you choose the perfect fit for your family and requirements
Explore our dog-friendly safari tents and start planning your unforgettable family glamping adventure in Yorkshire today.
Explore Our Luxury Accommodation
Lodges
Relax in one of our lodges, offering a luxurious retreat with stunning river views. Each lodge features a fully equipped kitchen, plush king-sized beds, and private decking. Enjoy a serene getaway immersed in nature's beauty, with all the comforts of home.
SARFARI TENTS
Enjoy luxury glamping in one of our safari tents, nestled in the tranquil countryside. Each tent features a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, and private decking with stunning views. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature for an unforgettable holiday.
Shepherd’s Huts
Experience luxury in our shepherd's huts. Ingeniously designed, these charming retreats offer comfort, modern conveniences, and thoughtful touches. Enjoy a memorable and rejuvenating escape, surrounded by nature and the beauty of the River Ure.
