Get set to swap the hustle of Manchester for heather-covered landscapes, wild swimming spots and dark sky reserves. In just two hours by train, you can travel to some of the best nature regions of northern England with Canopy & Stars.
We want more people to experience this part of the UK without the stress of traffic or the carbon footprint of driving. That is why Canopy & Stars is making it even easier to explore the North with our Green Journey Gift Card. We’ll send you a £75 voucher towards a future booking when you travel by rail to one of these glamping stays near Manchester. Leave the car behind, sit back with a good book, and let the train take you straight to nature.
Rufus’s Roost Treehouse, York
Deep in the Baxby Manor estate, a long boardwalk weaves you through the woods to this magical turreted wooden castle. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the space with light and the surprises keep coming — think a secret tunnel leading to a cosy reading nook and a lofted mezzanine bedroom with a fun scramble up the stairs. Outside, enjoy the hot tub, pizza oven and a veranda perfect for wildlife spotting. If you don’t fancy cooking pizza yourself, then no worries, it’s just a ten-minute walk over to the Pizza Shack at The Hideaway Campsite. Hike the North York Moors and Dales or take on the high ropes at GoApe in Dalby Forest for an adventurous group day out.
Treehouse for 6 from £324 per night – Rufus’s Roost | Treehouse in Yorkshire | Canopy & Stars
Train: 1 hr, 40m from Manchester Victoria to Thirsk
Haedd, Shropshire
This old stable turned cosy hideaway sits right on the wild edge of the Shropshire Hills AONB. Swing in the hammock and forage for wild garlic and mushrooms on sunny afternoons, then soak in the hot tub under some of the clearest, starry skies in the UK. Fire up the kamado BBQ with fresh picks from the local butcher just a mile away or walk four miles to Leintwardine’s riverside pub offering great grub and a refreshing river swim. Bucknell Station is just half a mile away, making car-free travel a breeze. From there, walk, cycle or arrange a pickup with your hosts for a seamless journey.
Train: 2 hr, 7m from Manchester Piccadilly to Bucknell Station
Barn for 2 from £135 per night – Haedd | Barn in Shropshire | Canopy & Stars
Falling Water, Yorkshire
If you’re after a stay that feels as magical as it is unique, Falling Water at Ponden Mill is it. Featured on George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces, this woodland hideaway sits above a flowing stream, its floor-to-ceiling windows wrapping you up in your natural surroundings. Wake up to golden light filtering through the stained-glass door, explore Bronte country, or just unwind to the sound of rippling water. With the Pennine Way on your doorstep and Haworth nearby, it’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Plus, getting here is easy — just hop on a train to Haworth and the hosts will pick you up!
Cabin for 2 from £170 per night – Falling Water | Cabin in Yorkshire | Canopy & Stars
Train: 1 hr, 40m from Manchester Victoria to Thirsk Train Station
Silva Treehouse, Cumbria
This handcrafted, multi-level hideaway is a dream escape for any group of adventurers lurking out there. Silva Treehouse sleeps six, with plush king-size beds dressed in beautifully crafted linens, a glowing wood burner and a mountain-view hot tub. Any amateur chefs among you will be spoiled for choice. Cook in the fully equipped kitchen or get the BBQ, pizza oven, or firepit going for alfresco wholesomeness. The real highlight? A slide leading to the ultimate games den, complete with hammocks, dartboard, ping pong table and a bar. Hike the Lake District, spot wildlife from your deck and take the scenic riverside walk to the Featherston Arms for hearty pub food.
Treehouse for 6 from £336 per night – Silva Treehouse | Treehouse in Cumbria | Canopy & Stars
Train: 1hr, 30m from Manchester Picadilly to Penrith (North Lakes) or 1hr, 48m from Manchester Picadilly to Carlisle
Poppy, Yorkshire
If you like your nature escapes with a slice of riverside luxury, Poppy at Riverdale is just the spot. Sat at the edge of the Nidderdale National Landscape and Yorkshire Dales National Park, it is the perfect base for wild swimming, hiking and firepit feasting under the stars. Tucked away in a wildflower meadow and completely car-free for ultimate peace, simply grab a wheelbarrow at reception and follow the signs to your off-grid shepherd’s hut. For the ultimate wind-down, book a session in the wood-fired sauna, wild swim in the River Ure before freshening up in your en suite shower room, or settle into the outdoor twin bathtubs with a glass of something chilled.
Shepherd’s Hut for 2 from £149 – Poppy | Shepherd’s hut in Yorkshire | Canopy & Stars
Train: 1 hr, 40m from Manchester Piccadilly to Thirsk Train Station
