Herstory: how did we begin?
The Women’s Holiday Centre was set up in 1980 as a charitable co-operative by women involved in feminism and the women’s liberation movement. Funded initially by a generous £30,000 donation, we purchased the Old Vicarage in Horton-in-Ribblesdale. After extensive volunteer work, it opened its doors in May 1981. Since then, thousands of women and children have stayed at the centre which has become a vital volunteer-run resource for women in the UK and beyond. It continues to thrive through guest bookings, donations and the commitment and dedication of countless women.
What the centre means to women & children
We reflect here on what this centre has meant and means to women and children who’ve stayed here over the last 45 years.
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a healing, energising and restorative place
“thank you very much for my amazing stay. I really appreciated the house and also the magical character, spirit and atmosphere of this place. I feel a lot more chilled because of this place. Because I know there is a little corner of the world called “the women’s holiday centre” where no-one judges you and just respects people’s different experiences and diversities.”
– Guest, 2003
“First time here. I felt safe and loved and the shame shed away as soon as I walked through the door. My life is better just knowing I will be returning to this special safe sacred space. With love and deep gratitude”
– Guest, 2025
“a lovely place to find inner peace“
– Guest, 2003
“It’s been a much needed breathing space. This green and pleasant land has been gentle on me and given me time and space to Rest, Recover, Reflect and just be. I’ve appreciated this opportunity to belong here for a bit. The wide open spaces have given me room to stretch, the peaks have lifted me up”
– Guest, 1983
"I've come here with all the women I love most to celebrate my hen weekend. It's the first time I've been here late spring + the flowers, smells + sounds are so lovely at this time of year. Thank you for providing such a wonderful, safe + nurturing space for us all to meet, spend time together, share stories + memories + laughter. There has been a lot of laughter this weekend + that has been helped along by the atmosphere in this special place"
- Guest, 2020
a place for special occasions and retreats
“It’s my 30th birthday + I’m very happy to be spending it here at the wonderful place”
– Guest, 2023
“Our group came here to stay for a weekend retreat. The house and the grounds gave such a feeling of peace and comfort, it was very warm and welcoming, and I felt so relaxed and happy the whole time here. The facilities are great, everything needed was provided. .. The beds are very comfortable, I’ve had the best 2 nights sleep I’ve had in years and have woken up feeling truly rested”
– Guest, from a singing group, 2025
“I loved staying here you get to feel good and be welcome to be yourself. The community is kind and strong. You all pitch in and help out.
I felt happy and that i didn’t have to worry about anything”
– young Guest, 2025
“My third time here. As soon as I walk through the door I feel calmer. I can be myself and I feel peace. Myself and the children have had the house to ourselves this weekend but I could feel the energy from so many other women, sharing this beautiful space, helping me to feel safe with my family”
– Guest and her three children, 2025
a place for both women & children to enjoy
“This space allowed us to facilitate some amazing stuff with our teenage girls … they have left me speechless with their insights + creativity …. thanks + we will all be back again and again”
– Guest, 2003
“Ideal place for mums & kids to relax in a really friendly atmosphere. Nice to share meals and cooking, meet different people and exchange views. Enjoyable and very homely. Reluctant to leave”
– Guest, 1983
“A brisk walk across the dales is wonderful for inspiration and changing old ideas (cleaning out the attic I could say). So I’m going back to the big smoke with new found energy“
– Guest, 1988
“It was my first time here and I love it! So many sleeps! Lots! Blue sky, green fields everywhere. Fresh air. Warm welcome, great women … I needed this break”
– Guest, 2024
“Came here to find my ‘voice’ within exploration of creative writing. Will climb Pen-y-ghent tomorrow with my daughter. Love it here every time we come. A safe haven. Thanks a million”
– Guest, 1990
“Spent 5 days at Horton house. My daughter and I had a lovely week, surrounded by lovely people. The house enabled me to afford a holiday which I wouldn’t have been able to have if it wasn’t for the Horton house. My little girl enjoyed playing in the playroom and in the play areas in the garden and the village. Thank you for making it such a relaxing and enjoyable holiday for us”
– Guest, early 2010s
a place that has given so much to women and children over the last 45 years and counting
Horton Women's Holiday Centre 