WOMEN’S HOLIDAY CENTRE
Welcome to the Women’s Holiday Centre: where rest, relaxation, and well-being are central. This is your time away from the everyday, a chance to unwind and breathe. Whether you’re here for a short escape or a longer stay, we hope you enjoy an affordable getaway that is a true break for both body and mind. What we offer is truly unique.
The Women’s Holiday Centre in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, North Yorkshire, was established in 1980 as a not-for-profit co-operative. It is volunteer-run and has supported thousands of women and children by offering affordable holidays. Payment is based on a sliding scale according to income. The Centre is a unique low-cost option offering a supportive, open and friendly environment. Guests often socialise, cook, and share meals together, contributing to a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere.
The centre provides a safe and friendly environment where women and children can connect with one another. We offer a mix of private and shared rooms, with communal spaces including two sitting rooms with open fires, a large playroom, big kitchen, spacious garden and an outdoor fire-pit.
“so gorgeous to be here again and share this brilliant, homely, communal retreat”
– guest
What we offer
We have a relaxed, informal self-catering ethos with basic vegetarian and vegan food provided—so there’s no need to bring your own food, unless you’d like to. Bedding, towels, and essential toiletries are all provided and we keep spare coats, hats, gloves and wellies (for both adults and children) at the house, making it easy for those travelling light or by public transport. We also have a well stocked children’s playroom with plenty of toys and games.
Our welcoming environment encourages connection, shared meals and a sense of safety and belonging. Whether you’re looking for rest, recovery or simply a break in a beautiful setting, the Women’s Holiday Centre offers something truly special.
Who the centre is for
- Open to women regardless of their age, ethnicity, sexuality or class. Women can come alone, with children, friends, family or their community groups at any time of year.
- Children are very welcome – the house has a playroom, garden and access to local activities that are enjoyable and engaging. Girls are welcome at all times and boys are welcome up to their 11th birthday at any time. Older boys (up to their 15th birthday) can visit during specific “older boys” weeks / weekends throughout the year. See the “Events & Activities” page for more details.
“Words can’t explain the feelings I’m feeling today after the stay here. I will say – brilliant – peaceful – laughter – friendship. Thank you. See you again.”
— Guest, 2025
Guest comments, past and present
We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Ready to face the world again.
— Guest, 2024
My 2nd time here with my mum, brother and sister. We all loved it so much! We climbed Pen-y-ghent then came home and played games and cooked together. It was very lovely and we can’t wait to come back in the summer! Thank so much <3
— Guest, 2025
Returning after 27 years, Horton is a great achievement to keep the spirit of the place alive and to keep it going for 30 years
— Guest, 2010
Thank you for giving us a lovely space. So warm and welcoming. The house is so calm, she feels like she nurtured over the years. Been coming here on and off since 1990-91 and we still love it and will be back.
— Guests, 2024
Opening hours
CENTRE OPENING HOURS: The centre is open to stay all year round for 365 days a year. School holidays are the busiest times, and some dates may be booked for closed groups, so check availability with us by phone or email.
How to get to us
LOCATION: Horton-in-Ribblesdale is on the Leeds – Carlisle train line (approx. 1 hour from Leeds) with Horton-in-Ribblesdale train station being the stop you want. The centre is a short 10-15 minute walk from Horton-in-Ribblesdale train station.
For guests who are driving, we have a large private driveway to park in on the centre grounds.
There are local buses that come to Horton and we recommend that you check the latest guidance on these for routes and times. Once on a bus you can usually tell the driver where you want to get off in Horton.
CENTRE ADDRESS: The Old Vicarage, Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Settle, BD24 0HD, UK
The nearest town with shops, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes and a selection of pubs is Settle which is about 10 mins away by car, train or bus from Horton, or a lovely and scenic 2-hour walk.
Horton Women's Holiday Centre 