Escape the City: Experience the Best of Autumn at Swinton Estate’s Game Week
When autumn rolls in, there’s no better time to leave the bustle of London behind and recharge in the crisp air of the Yorkshire Dales. And what better way to enjoy the season than at Swinton Estate during its celebrated Great British Game Week, running from 3rd to 9th November. This annual event is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the best of country living, while enjoying some of the most exhilarating and indulgent experiences Yorkshire has to offer.
Just two and a half hours from London, Swinton Estate offers the perfect escape from city life. Set across 20,000 acres of stunning Yorkshire countryside, it’s a sanctuary of peace, beauty, and adventure. With its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and tranquil parklands, it’s the ideal backdrop for a seasonal getaway. During Game Week, the estate transforms into a hub for food lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a unique, hands-on experience in the great British outdoors.
At the heart of Game Week are the game-themed menus, where the rich flavours of venison, partridge, and pheasant take centre stage. Whether dining in the refined elegance of Samuel’s Restaurant, or enjoying a more casual meal in The Terrace Restaurant, the week is a true celebration of seasonal produce, much of it sourced directly from the estate. For those seeking something extra special, the Chef’s Table offers an intimate tasting experience where guests can enjoy a curated eight-course menu while learning about the estate’s culinary philosophy.
But Game Week isn’t just about food; it’s a celebration of the very best of country pursuits. Throughout the week, Swinton Estate offers nearly 50 activities, all showcasing the rugged charm of the Yorkshire Dales. On 5th and 7th November, day tickets are available for visitors to experience a wide range of exciting demonstrations, from birds of prey and gun dog displays, to butchery and port tastings. And if you’re keen to take part in something a little more hands-on, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as fly fishing, clay pigeon shooting, and even axe throwing.
A key highlight is the chance to join the ‘Dinner with the Artist’ event on 4th November, an exclusive evening with renowned artist Hugh Miller. Guests can sip cocktails in his gallery and learn about his work before moving to the estate’s private dining room, the Adam’s Folly, for a four-course dinner. This intimate dining experience is perfect for those looking to enjoy a cultural touch to their countryside retreat.
For those seeking relaxation between activities, Swinton Estate’s luminescent winter light trail, Luminescence, is a spectacular way to end the day. As evening sets in, the sparkling lights guide you through the estate’s gardens, offering a magical end to your adventure in the wilds of Yorkshire.
For the ultimate break from the city, why not stay at the estate itself? Swinton offers a range of accommodations, from the luxury of Swinton Park Hotel to more relaxed options like the Swinton Bivouac (perfect for glamping). All accommodation options offer access to the full Game Week experience, including guided estate tours, where you can learn about the estate’s history, its commitment to sustainable game management, and the vital work being done to preserve local wildlife and biodiversity.
Whether you’re in need of an adventurous getaway, a foodie retreat, or simply a chance to enjoy the peaceful beauty of Yorkshire in autumn, Swinton Estate delivers. It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy everything the estate has to offer, with Game Week serving as the ideal event to immerse yourself in the charm of country living.
Leaving the city behind for a few days may be just the escape you need, and at Swinton Estate, you’ll find everything you need to feel restored, recharged, and ready to take on the world again. So why not treat yourself to a break in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales this autumn, and discover a different side of Britain? Game Week at Swinton Estate is the perfect excuse to make it happen.
FInd more information at :
swintonestate.com/events/great-british-game-week.
Elena Leo is the Arts & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.
