Geodesic Domes at The Private Hill, Malton – Review

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By Kirsty Reid

I’ve always loved the idea of camping – sleeping under the stars, getting cosy around a warming campfire and toasting marshmallows. A chance to completely switch off from the world and be at one with nature.

For me, though, the reality didn’t quite meet expectations. The tent was cold, the ground wet and the toilets were half a mile away – not much fun if you need the loo in the night.

So, when I heard about The Private Hill luxury glamping site I was instantly excited. With a superking-sized bed, woodburning stove, en-suite, kitchenette, mains power and WiFi, The Private Hill offers all the perks of camping without having to rough it.

the private hill review interior

Set on Thrussendale Farm, on the cusp of the North Yorkshire Wolds, The Private Hill is extremely easy to find. As we drive by the farm house, passing a field of cattle, the geodesic domes and breathtaking views soon come into view.

Upon arrival, we are greeted with a warm welcome from Frankie and Jess in the communal Jane’s Dome. The large dome offers sumptuous breakfasts (plentiful and delicious), light lunches, afternoon tea and evening canapés and cocktails. The four remaining private domes take their names from the farm’s prize-winning Aberdeen Angus cattle – Defender, Druid, Duchess and Debussy.

the private hill review Defender Dome

“Breathtaking décor”

After a quick, yet informative, tour of the Defender Dome (our home for the evening) we soon realise this is next level glamping. En-suite is one thing, but the luxury doesn’t end there. Each dome is furnished to an incredibly high quality, with superking-sized beds (or two large twins), a choice of pillows, firepit, stocked minibar, Nespresso coffee machine and Sonas music soundsystem. The domes are more luxurious than I could’ve ever imagined – more akin to a five-star boutique hotel than a luxury yurt or bell tent.

Designed with incredible attention to detail, high-end features and breathtaking décor, you’d be forgiven for thinking that this was the work of an interior designer. We soon learn that Roddy and Jane Hamilton, the pair behind The Private Hill, not only came up with the initial concept and oversaw the entire project, but they are responsible for the fine furnishings, too.

the private hill review Jane's Dome

The well-thought out dome leaves no stone unturned. It’s the little touches the make this a more comfortable stay – from the coffee and biscuits to the luxury White Company toiletries.

What is most striking, though, is the view from the dome itself. Perched on the grassy hillside, the futuristic domes offer views for miles. Though it is raining on our visit, it doesn’t put a damper on our stay. Instead we keep cosy by the woodburning stove while soaking up the view over a few drinks.

Though you’ll not tire of the secluded hideout’s picturesque views and creature comforts, if you are keen to get out and about the local area has plenty to offer. Flamingo Land, Eden Camp and Castle Howard are all close by. As is the beautiful market town of Malton, which is where we head for food.

the private hill review Debussy

“Stunning countryside views

After tucking into a delicious lunch at The Talbot (cheese burger and chips £11, bavette steak £11), we enjoy fresh artisan gelato courtesy of Groovy Moo ice-cream parlour.

We are lucky enough to meet Roddy and Jane Hamilton during our stay and gain an insight into how this glamp site came to be.

The down-to-earth couple reveal the hill has always been their favourite part of the farm. Keen to share the stunning countryside views with others, they looked into glamping and, after trying a site in Shropshire, they liked the idea but knew they could do better.

the private hill review bedroom druid

The hand-on pair are incredibly accommodating and it’s clear they want to offer the best with what they have – something they do and then some.

When the time comes to leave The Private Hill, I reluctantly load up the car and prepare to return to the real world, albeit with a happier mindset. It’s really not a question of if I’ll return to this glamp site, but when.

The Private Hill, Thrussendale Farm, Acklam, Nr.Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 9RG
Open all year round, prices start at £150 a night per dome, minimum 2 night stay.
01653 917288
theprivatehill.co.uk

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