Glenthorne Quaker Centre & Guest House

Picture this: I'm driving down a winding country lane, GPS telling me I'm almost there, but the sign for Glenthorne Quaker Centre & Guest House is nowhere to be seen. I'm starting to think I've taken a wrong turn, when suddenly, there it is, tucked away in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. It's like finding a hidden gem, and I'm not the only one who thinks so.

Glenthorne is more than just a guest house; it's a sanctuary. A place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find a bit of peace and quiet. It's run by Quakers, a religious group known for their simplicity and commitment to social justice. But don't worry, you don't have to be a Quaker to enjoy a stay here. In fact, people from all walks of life are welcome, and that's what makes Glenthorne so special.

What's in a Name?

First things first, let's talk about the name. Glenthorne is a combination of two words: 'glen', which is a Scottish word for a narrow valley, and 'thorne', which is an old English word for a thorn tree. So, Glenthorne literally means 'valley of thorn trees'. It's a fitting name for a place that's nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.

But the name isn't the only thing that sets Glenthorne apart. The guest house is also known for its commitment to sustainability. From the solar panels on the roof to the locally sourced food, everything is designed to have a minimal impact on the environment. It's a place where you can enjoy a comfortable stay while also doing your bit for the planet.

And the best part? The views. Oh, the views. From the guest house, you can see for miles and miles, and on a clear day, you can even see the Pennines. It's like having your own personal postcard, and it's a sight that you won't forget in a hurry.

The Rooms

Now, let's talk about the rooms. There are eight guest rooms in total, each one uniquely decorated with a blend of traditional and modern touches. They're all en-suite, so you don't have to worry about sharing a bathroom with strangers. And the best part? Each room has its own unique view of the surrounding countryside.

But the rooms aren't the only thing that makes Glenthorne special. The guest house also has a beautiful garden, complete with a patio area where you can sit and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even explore the surrounding countryside, with plenty of walking and cycling trails to choose from.

GLENTHORNE GUEST HOUSE - Updated Reviews, Photos 2026

And if you're looking for a bit of peace and quiet, the guest house also has a meditation room, where you can sit and reflect on life. It's a great way to unwind and recharge, and it's a testament to the Quaker values that the guest house is built on.

The Food

Now, let's talk about the food. Glenthorne is known for its delicious, locally sourced meals, and it's not hard to see why. The guest house prides itself on using fresh, seasonal ingredients, and it shows in the quality of the food.

Breakfast is a particular highlight, with a range of options to choose from, including a full English breakfast, vegetarian options, and even gluten-free and vegan options. And if you're feeling peckish in the afternoon, there's always a selection of homemade cakes and biscuits to enjoy.

But the food isn't the only thing that makes Glenthorne special. The guest house also has a range of activities and events on offer, from yoga and meditation classes to workshops and retreats. It's a great way to meet new people and learn new skills, and it's a testament to the Quaker values of community and learning.

Glenthorne Guest House and Conference Centre

Why Stay at Glenthorne?

So, why should you stay at Glenthorne? Well, for starters, it's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find a bit of peace and quiet. It's a place where you can enjoy delicious, locally sourced food, and it's a place where you can learn new skills and meet new people.

But perhaps the most important reason to stay at Glenthorne is the people. The staff are friendly, welcoming, and always on hand to help with anything you need. And the guests? Well, they're a diverse bunch, from all walks of life, and they all have one thing in common: a desire to find a bit of peace and quiet in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

So, if you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then look no further than Glenthorne Quaker Centre & Guest House. It's a place where you can enjoy a comfortable stay, delicious food, and stunning views, all while doing your bit for the planet. What more could you ask for?

And who knows, you might even find yourself driving down that winding country lane, searching for a hidden gem, and discovering a place that you'll never want to leave.