Welcome to Bark Hollow – Where Adventure Meets Imagination
At Bark Hollow, we believe childhood should be filled with wonder, discovery, and meaningful connections. Our setting is a place where children are free to explore, create, and truly be themselves, whether they’re splashing through puddles, building dens, getting creative with crafts, or learning how to care for the world around them.
We value hands-on experiences and child-led play, embracing curiosity, creativity, and confidence in all that we do. Time spent outdoors is an important part of our day, offering opportunities for exploration and fresh air, while equally valuing the comfort, creativity, and learning that happens indoors. This balanced approach ensures children benefit from the best of both worlds.
Our beautifully designed indoor space is warm and inviting, thoughtfully created to support a wide range of play and learning experiences. With cosy corners, craft areas, messy play, soft play zones, and more, it’s a welcoming environment where children can feel safe, settled, and inspired whatever the weather.
Bark Hollow is more than just a place; it’s a community. A space where independence is encouraged, imaginations can flourish, and strong relationships are built. We provide a nurturing, supportive environment where children can grow, thrive, and connect with the world in meaningful ways.
Come and experience the magic of Bark Hollow where every day is a new story waiting to unfold.

At Bark Hollow, we are a childminding team that offers a unique and thoughtful learning approach inspired by the natural environment. While we embrace the benefits of outdoor learning, we balance this with enriching indoor experiences to support every child’s needs and interests. Our days flow naturally between inside and outside, allowing children to learn and play in a variety of meaningful ways.
Time spent outdoors gives children opportunities to connect with nature, explore their surroundings, and develop confidence through hands-on experiences such as climbing, building, observing wildlife, and problem-solving. Indoors, children benefit from a calm, nurturing environment where they can engage in creative play, focused learning, imaginative role play, and moments of rest and reflection.
By combining both environments, we support curiosity, independence, and resilience while recognising the importance of comfort, routine, and individual learning styles. Children are encouraged to engage with the changing seasons and the world around them, while also having the space indoors to explore ideas, express themselves, and build social connections.
We follow a child-led approach, allowing children’s interests, alongside gentle guidance and the rhythms of daily life to shape learning experiences. This holistic balance supports emotional well-being, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning in a way that feels natural, flexible, and inclusive.
Our Setting – A Natural Haven for Growing Minds
Tucked away in the heart of the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, Bark Hollow is set within a riding centre and surrounded by stunning views of rolling hills. Conveniently located near Harrogate, North Rigton, and Pool in Wharfedale, our secure 2.5-acre site is used exclusively by us, providing a safe, private space where children can explore, play, and flourish.
At Bark Hollow, we offer a balanced approach to learning, combining the richness of outdoor experiences with thoughtfully designed indoor spaces. Children benefit from time in the fresh air, enjoying open fields,, and interactions with animals on-site, while also engaging in creative, imaginative, and focused learning indoors. This mix encourages curiosity, confidence, and independence, supporting every child’s development in a safe and stimulating environment.
Both our indoor and outdoor areas are carefully planned with young learners in mind. Divided into engaging zones, each space invites exploration, creativity, and discovery whether it’s a cosy corner for quiet reflection, a craft area for imaginative play, or the wide-open outdoors for adventure and hands-on learning. Every space is led by our passionate, highly qualified team, ensuring each child receives the guidance, support, and freedom they need to thrive.

With years of childminding experience, Amy loves creating a fun, safe space for kids to grow and explore. When she’s not working, you’ll find her enjoying long walks with her family and dogs — and, of course, a bit of chocolate.

Nic has a passion for being outdoors and loves spending time with her three children. With years of experience, she’s all about creating a fun, adventurous environment for kids. When she’s not working, you’ll find her with a hot chocolate, enjoying nature with her family.

Josh loves traveling and trying new things, always eager to explore new places and experiences. He’s passionate about bringing fresh ideas, exciting activities, and fun adventures to the kids, helping them discover the world around them in new and engaging ways.

Tom has extensive experience in the childcare sector. When he’s not working, you’ll find him with his beloved horses, enjoying the great outdoors. A fan of making fires and exploring nature, Tom brings his love of adventure to everything he does.

Tom has lots of experience in the great outdoors and knows how to make it fun for everyone. He loves hiking, being immersed in nature, and exploring new trails. Whether he's on his bike or just soaking up the fresh air, Tom is always ready to share his love for adventure and the outdoors with the kids.
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