LOST for words
The Yorkshire Dales generally require superlatives to describe them, but Janet Lumb finds a place which even they are not sufficient.
Littondale, where Hawkswick Cote, nestles, needs superlative superlatives. Or just - wow! If location is everything for you, then you may just have found a location to end all locations, through the pages of this magazine.
Hawkswick Cote is one of a group of parks owned by North Dales Leisure, but it gives every impression of being a
personally-run one-off.
DRAMATIC
Littondale is off Wharfedale, which is off Wensleydale, which all qualifies it to feel right away from everything! But actually it is quite accessible from west (M65) and east (AI(M) and A65). But when you get there your troubles seem to melt away, or so it seemed on my short visit. The Dale is wide and dramatic, and the holiday homes - which are almost as green as the surroundings - merge pretty well into the countryside. It's hard to describe the atmosphere; it's a mix of timelessness and carefree space. The drama of the Dales is complemented by the dry stone walls, which have their own story to tell of farming history, and solid buildings meant to last. Just a short way off are the lovely centres of Skipton and Grassington, both full of charm and with real Yorkshire shops and restaurants. You can go out in a canal boat in Skipton or ride the steam train - if you can bear to drag yourself away from the Dale, that
is. It will soon be part of your blood.
AMUSEMENTS
You are going to make them yourself, of course! This is a great site for walkers, for instance, whether casual
or serious. There are two long-distance footpaths running near the park, the Pennine Way and the Dales Way.
Within a mile is Kilnsey Park, a lovely countryside attraction that offers lots of interest for families or just
casual adult visitors, from a trout farm to red squirrels and nature trails - not to mention the goat skyway!
On the park itself is just a small reception area with shop. The owners of holiday homes in this particular location would not, I am sure, want anything more. In fact, there is no need to add anything!
WHO FOR?
There is a definite clientele to whom this four-star park will appeal - they are walkers, cyclists, hone riders and all lovers of the great outdoors. Owners at Hawkswick Cote tend to be in their 40s and early 50s -when they
buy, that is - and many stay as owners for many years, even 30 and 40 years in some cases! People come from
Liverpool, Leeds, even down South (as we say oop North). Friends and family are welcome, of course, and subletting is permitted in a low-key sort of way. A discussion with the management - Ted and Helen, or
Peter and Joan - will clarify what the rules are on this score. If you are thinking of buying, you will talk to Russell, who is in charge of sales. The park is full of caravan-style holiday homes, not lodges. So its for
those who like that traditional way holidaying. Many come every week more often if possible.
HOOKED
There are 92 pitches for static-type caravan holiday homes. Second hand holiday homes do come up for sale
occasionally and there are currently three available bases for new caravan holiday homes. If you want to view, there is a small hire fleet of seven caravans, so you could book yourself in and try before you buy. But bring your cheque book, just in case, as you will probably be hooked straight away! Hawkswick Cote owners are self selecting. Judging by the length of time owners seem to stay here - just changing their holiday home when the statutory 15 year arrives - this park is a real find
Park & Holiday Homes 21-10-10
