The UK’s first fairy sanctuary just opened in York

In a first for the UK: the Van Outerstep family have opened their secret off-grid fairy sanctuary, Northwood Trail to the public, and it’s magical. 

Located near Stamford Bridge, York, guests can wander around the forest, sneaking a peak at hidden fairy abodes in the trees, exploring the magical maze and marvelling at nature. The walk is a gentle 30 minute stroll, but it doesn’t end there. Visitors can also learn everything there is to know about fairies in the fairy museum, and admire artefacts like a mermaid skeleton, fairy outfits and fairy furniture. 

Sustainability is a key theme for the fairy sanctuary. Northwood Trail generates its own electricity through solar panels and batteries, and deals with effluent waste onsite. 

Fairy fans needing to refuel can stop off in Northwood Kitchen. The café bar is decorated in forest greens, natural woods and featuring several beautiful fireplaces. The unique eatery serves organic coffee, teas, alcoholic beverages, and tasty local food. You don’t have to visit the fairy sanctuary to drop into Northwood Kitchen either. Visitors can pop in for a drink or meal and privately hire the venue when the trail is shut. 

There’s plenty of events on the horizon, too. Halloween with see a gentle seasonal celebration at Northwood Trail with lantern walks and workshops on offer. 

Carolyn Van Outerstep and her family had a clear vision for the fairy sanctuary: “A bit more natural, a bit more simple and [somewhere] that really encourages children to interact with nature and the natural world – we didn’t want to distract and keep kids too focused on flashing lights. It’s all very simple.”

Grownups are well looked after, too: “We’ve designed it to be accessible for adults as well as children, because we got sick of being dragged around places that were patronising for adults [with our children].”

Fair play! 

Tickets must be booked online in advance. Click here for more information and to book.