Our Vision
Welcome to Tarn Sike Woodland Retreat — an adults-only sanctuary in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Our vision is simple: a place where grown-ups can properly switch off. No noise, no rush, no compromises — just woodland, water, and the space to breathe. We've created a luxury glamping experience that gives you all the comfort you need and none of the distraction you don't.
The Name
Tarn Sike takes its name from the stream that flows through our land, originating from the nearby Sunbiggin Tarn. In the local dialect, 'sike' means a small stream or watercourse, connecting us to centuries of Cumbrian heritage and the landscape that surrounds us.
Our Setting
Holme Bottom is our 30-acre smallholding and the family home of Paul and Angela and our daughters Emily & Annabelle. Here we keep sheep, poultry, and bees alongside our horses. The glamping retreat occupies a beautiful wooded area alongside a private lake, creating a tranquil escape where guests can immerse themselves in nature.
We bought Holme Bottom in 2017 after falling in love with the tranquility of its location, the property has a long history as a farm having been built sometime in the 1800's. During the last 60 years it has been a dairy farm, a deer farm and more recently a smallholding.
The woodland trees were planted during the properties time as a deer farm and we are keen to ensure that we carefully manage and continually restock the woodland to enhance its ecological value while creating space for our four luxury pods. Each pod has been thoughtfully positioned to offer privacy and stunning views.
The Experience
We wanted to share what we enjoy so much every day by creating Tarn Sike — a small, adults-only retreat where the pace is set by you. Each of our four pods is designed for two adults, with a king-size bed, full kitchen, modern ensuite, and a private outdoor space with its own stone resin bath. A sofa bed is available for those who prefer their own sleeping space. Soak under the open sky, swim in the lake at dawn, sit by the firepit as the woodland quietens — all without interruption.
Around our lake and woodland, in spring, summer, autumn and winther you will find an ever changing environment full of nature, from red squirrels, wild flowers, ducks, canada geese and occasionally swans, the area is teeming with life.
Location
We're in the hamlet of Raisbeck, Cumbria — just 3 miles from Orton village and 10 minutes from M6 Junction 38. Penrith and Kendal are both under 30 minutes by road, and the market towns of Appleby-in-Westmorland and Kirkby Stephen are easily reached for a day out. Despite the easy access, once you're here, you'll feel worlds away from everyday life.
The area offers incredible opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife watching. From the Great Asby Scar National Nature Reserve to the ancient Gamelands Stone Circle, from challenging fell walks in the Howgills to stargazing in the International Dark Sky Reserve — there's something for everyone.