Don’t stay in a shipping container?
Probably not. That’s a really stupid question!
What if a shipping container looked like this….
I have just returned from a gorgeous glamping holiday and this time I had the pleasure of staying in a converted shipping container at The Box BNB in North Yorkshire.
It’s no secret that I love glamping. I love the simplicity and ease of a glamping holiday and my stay at The Box BNB did not disappoint.
Box BNB is located on a farm in Malton, North Yorkshire. This is one of his beautiful, idyllic farms that look like something out of the pages of a childhood picture book. The type with a driveway planted with daffodils and a friendly dog who greets and runs to all visitors.
Three black shipping containers sit on a large field next to a farmhouse. That might sound like the beginning of a great story about a weekend getaway, but stick with me till the end…
These shipping containers have been transformed from functional steel boxes to tranquil cabins for a luxurious yet simple escape.
The cabins, named The Pig Box, The Duck Box, and The Rabbit Box, are perfectly placed next to each other, yet each guest has complete privacy and is surrounded by the cabins next door. Floor to ceiling windows are invisible. Oh yeah, let’s talk about floor-to-ceiling windows!
The long wall facing the field was almost completely removed and floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors were installed. With lots of glass, the cabins are bright, airy and airy, offering unspoilt views of the countryside. I found that I couldn’t help but sit and stare at the scenery, watching the sky and the clouds go by, and watching the giant rabbits fly around the fields. Views like this are mesmerizing and you don’t need a TV when you can see this.
Each cabin features a cozy bedroom, a very stylish bathroom with a large shower, and a spacious kitchen/living/dining area with a wood-burning fireplace. The outdoor deck area also has BBQ facilities and a table and chairs.
Each cabin is beautifully decorated and we loved the simple yet modern decor.
The Box BNB review (in short!)
We loved our stay at The Box BNB. If you’re looking for a short break in North Yorkshire, this is it. These private self-contained cabins provide the perfect base from which to explore the area. Perfect for nature lovers looking for a simple yet luxurious stay. The large windows allowed guests to soak in the surrounding scenery, and it was so much fun to wake up in the morning, open the blinds, and watch the rabbits hop around the fields.
Box BNB is a great option for couples. Also, with large families or groups, he can rent all three cabins, perfect for group vacations where you can have privacy with a separate living area.
Are there shops, bars, restaurants nearby?
Yes, there are many choices. We love that The Box BNB’s location feels so remote, but it’s actually just a short drive to the nearest town where you’ll find all the amenities you need.
We’ll send you a big list of local eateries, including lots of cozy gastropubs!
On the way to the cabin, we stopped at the Lidl in Pickering as it was only 10 minutes away. We stocked up on delicious snacks (and wine!) before heading to our cabin for check-in at 3pm.
Whole Hog Farm Shop is also just a 6-minute drive away, and the town of Malton is known as Yorkshire’s ‘foodie capital’ due to its abundance of artisan food stores and gourmet markets.
What can you do nearby?
I visited in winter, so most of my stay was about having a cozy, relaxing vacation. Still, I got out and saw some great places nearby.
Thornton-le-Dale
First of all you must visit Thornton le Dale. It’s the most beautiful village you can imagine!
Dalby Forest National Park
We then took a walk around Dalby Forest, which has a lovely cafe and visitor center and a great play park to take the kids to.
There are 13 walking trails, six cycling trails, the Zog Trail for younger kids, and GoApe for older kids.
Please note that parking at Dalby Forest costs £10 regardless of length of stay. I was a little annoyed because he only stayed for 30 minutes, but most people will stay for a few hours so it’s not too bad!
Goathland Station
Next we went to Goathland station. I’m a big Harry Potter fan and this station was used as a filming location for the Hogsmeade movie. It is very beautiful and you can take a lovely walk across the moors above.
Whitby Abbey
Next I went to Whitby Abbey. Afterwards we were planning to spend the afternoon in Whitby, but it was pouring. It didn’t take much persuasion to return to the cabin. We had lunch at the YHA in the monastery.
Whitby
Whitby is such a beautiful city, so in addition to visiting the abbey, you can also take a walk around the city.
Here’s a blog post about things to do in and around Whitby.
Robin Hood’s Bay
While you’re near Whitby, be sure to stop by the picturesque fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay.
Scarborough
If you’re looking for more of a classic seaside town, Scarborough is just a 35-minute drive away.
York
The gorgeous city of York is also just 35 minutes away by car, so be sure to enjoy a visit to York Minster or a walk along the River Shambles.
Who is The Box BNB best for?
Box BNB is definitely perfect for a romantic getaway for couples. It’s very cozy and quiet, making it perfect for two adults who just want to relax for a few nights.
Groups or extended families may also enjoy booking all three cabins.
There are currently a lot of rooms available, so it won’t be difficult to find a day where you can book all three on the same day.
Each cabin can be booked for 2 adults and 2 children, but I personally think it can be a bit cramped, especially if it rains and you can’t sit outside. But I’m a mother of three and I know that taking the whole family makes almost any glamping vacation cramped!
Who are your hosts at The Box BNB?
The Box BNB hosts are Rachel and Peter, who live on a farm with their daughters.
Rachel sent me a few friendly emails confirming my reservation and giving me all the information I needed to check in. There was also some information about things to do and eateries in the area. This information was also all listed in the welcome booklet when I arrived. The welcome information includes a phone number that you can call or message at any time if you have any problems or need wood for your bonfire.
This is a self-check-in process, so other than passing Rachel by email and driving, I didn’t meet the host. I think things might be different if you’re staying on weekends or in the summer when people tend to be outdoors a little more.
Was The Box BNB easy to find?
It was!
I’ve included this question because I often find it a little difficult to get to glamping accommodation on remote farms. They are either not on Google Maps or on his one lane little dirt track in the middle of nowhere.
Thankfully, Box BNB is very easy to access. Google Maps will take you there right away, so you don’t have to take the difficult route!
What do you need to bring with you to The Box BNB?
You don’t need to bring anything except food and clothing. All bedding and towels were provided and there were some peppermint tea bags and coffee pods. There was also salt, pepper, oil, and some herbs and spices.
There is very good WiFi if you want to bring your device to watch movies.
I also recommend good books. Games such as cards and Scrabble are also recommended.
How much does it cost to stay at The Box BNB?
Prices start from £169 per night, with an additional charge of £10 per night for each child. Minimum length of stay is 2 nights.