Landscape, West Leas Farm Holiday Cottages
Welcome to a day in the life on our farm, nestled in the peaceful countryside just outside Ripon, North Yorkshire 
Ever wondered what it’s like to wake up to birdsong, see sheep grazing at sunrise, and watch the sun set over rolling fields with a mug of tea in hand? Whether you’re planning a stay in one of our cosy holiday cottages or just dreaming of a simpler, slower pace of life, here’s a little window into what makes farm life here so special. 

☀️ 6:30 AM – Rise and Shine with the Sunrise 

There's something truly magical about the early morning light in the Yorkshire countryside.  
 
Our day starts with a strong brew and a peaceful dog walk – sometimes breakfast in the garden .  
 
This morning I was sitting in the garden having a cuppa and I could hear the Church Clock at Kirkby strike 7.00. The air so still the countryside so still as a hot day beckons. 
 
Guests often say they love the fresh air and slower mornings here – it’s a world away from the bustle of city life. 
Galphay Village

🐓 8:00 AM – Animal Routines and Farm Chores 

We’re a working farm, which means there’s always something to do! The fields are rented out to two local sheep farmers. So they can be seen checking their animals – occasionally bringing them in for foot treatments,health checks and shearing annually, when they are so glad to get their heavy wooly coats off 
 
July is sileage and haytime. When the grass is cut and dried to make winter feed. There’s not a lot of depth to the grass this year it has been so dry. But once cleared of grass that makes many more fields to walk in and enjoy our fabulous views. 
 
If you're staying in one of the cottages, you might spot the tractors from your window, or see Duncan tending to the sheep or we might be putting up a new fence (they don’t stay up forever, trust us!). 
The Galphay Inn

🧺 11:00 AM – Holiday Cottage Prep and Garden Time 

While the farm ticks along, we make sure everything is just right for our guests.  
 
If there is a changeover there’s a cottage to clean, beds to make up with fresh linen, and sparkling clean kitchens to create. 
 
Outside, the gardens get some TLC – flower beds in full bloom in summer, hanging baskets watered, autumn leaves swept in October, and pots of winter heather by the door in colder months. 
Walks & Outdoor Adventures in Galphay

🥪 1:00 PM – A Proper Yorkshire Lunch 

Lunch is usually simple but hearty – sandwiches made with local bread, maybe some Wensleydale cheese, and always a good cuppa. 
 
We’re big fans of local produce, and we’re happy to recommend nearby farm shops, butchers and markets so you can sample it too during your stay. 
Ruined Church in Gaphay

🚜 2:00 PM – Field Work, Fencing & Fixing 

Afternoons often involve more hands-on work – general maintenance.  
 
There’s never a dull moment, and the changing seasons mean every day is slightly different. We are lucky some people do the same job each day, our work is so varied. 
 
If you’re out for a walk on the footpaths around the farm, don’t be surprised to see us in the fields (give us a wave!). 
Sunrise, countryside landscape

🌅 6:00 PM – Wind Down with a View 

As the day winds down, we often enjoy the golden hour – that time just before sunset when everything glows.  
 
It's the perfect time for a wander, or simply to sit outside the cottage and listen to the countryside wind down. 
 
Some evenings we’ll light the log burner and settle in with a book or watch TV.  
 
It's simple – and that’s the beauty of it. 
Pet Friendly

🌟 Want to Experience It for Yourself? 

We believe a farm stay offers something truly unique – space to breathe, nature on your doorstep, and a slower rhythm that helps you truly switch off. 
Book your stay in one of our holiday cottages and see what a day in the life on our Yorkshire farm feels like. Or book to bring your caravan, sit and relax and watch the world go by! 
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