Escape the fireworks
Posted on January 23rd, 2025 by Sproxton Hall Cottages
For the November fireworks season and New Year’s Eve
If your dogs are distressed by fireworks, Sproxton Hall Cottages could be your perfect escape.
Peaceful location
Set in tranquil open countryside in the heart of rural North Yorkshire, relax with your dogs in a characterful cottage. Each cottage is unique but all have thick stone walls, log burners and stunning views over both the North York Moors National Park and the Howardian Hills National Landscape.
The hamlet of Sproxton is full of dog owners and there’s an equestrian centre too. Sproxton Hall Cottages are (as the name suggests) just across the lane from Sproxton Hall, comprising a farm with livestock. Residents put the welfare of their animals above fireworks and there are very few children to entertain.
The closest organised displays in November are in Ampleforth and (the far side of) Helmsley, both a couple of miles away.
At dusk, the enclosed dog exercise paddock is perfect for a final run of the day.
Spaniels snoozing
Since we moved here in 2018 our spaniels have been unaware that it is fireworks season and have snoozed on the sofa throughout. Daniel the Spaniel snored as loudly as any firework! Tilly and Toby, our two springer spaniels, are noise sensitive. Being away from fireworks is particularly important for Tilly, who has a history of seizures triggered by loud noises. Her previous owners rehomed her after the November 2023 fireworks. We were chosen as her new home specifically because of our quiet location and dog exercise paddock. Tilly has now been seizure-free for over a year.
‘We forgot it was fireworks night’
Our guests often comment on how settled their dogs were over November 5th and New Year’s Eve. From solo travellers to familes, you’ll feel relaxed and be able to enjoy your holiday. It’s not all about the fireworks – guests make sure they have a proper holiday by making Sproxton Hall Cottages their base for day time adventures.
Enjoying days out
Before hunkering down for an evening in front of the log burner, a long dog walk can help your dog(s) settle. The Ebor Way and bridleway are on the doorstep, including a country ramble into super dog friendly Helmsley with its castle (weekend opening) and a great selection of independent eateries and shops. Helmsley is also the start of the Cleveland Way and the walk to Rievaulx Abbey has some challenges but is well worth the effort. The North York Moors Visitor Centre at Sutton Bank is 6 miles away and has, according to James Herriot, ‘the finest view in England’. If your dogs prefer quiet walks, you can enjoy a myriad of countryside trails within a couple of miles from the cottages – it’s not uncommon to be the only dog walkers around.
Dogs love a trip to the Yorkshire coast (approx. 30 miles away). Our dog friendly favourites are Filey, Runswick Bay, and Whitby (walking towards Sandsend). Marske by the Sea also has expansive stretches of sand and usually feels the quietest. Between here and the coast lies Dalby Forest – perfect for an afternoon exploring the miles of forest trails. Drive in the opposite direction and you’ll be in Herriot country; the film locations in the Yorkshire Dales are popular days out.
Choosing your cottage
3 dogs are welcome in Bilsdale Cottage (sleeps 4) and Kirkdale Cottage (sleeps 5), and 2 dogs in Riccal Dale Cottage (sleeps 4).
Short stays and week long escapes are available throughout the year. Not sure when the fireworks displays will happen at home? Book a week away – it’s better value for money to stay for longer. Dogs holiday for free, unless they use the EV charger (small additional cost). Dog shower, towels and throws are provided.
All of our cottages have a strict ‘No Fireworks’ policy and guests are reminded of this at the time of booking and at arrival. As we live on site we’ll intervene if necessary. Obviously we can’t guarantee the behaviour of off-site neighbours.