Terms and Conditions

A 30% non refundable / non transferable deposit at time of booking in order to guarantee your booking.

In the event of a cancellation you will be required to pay the anticipated accommodation charge for your room(s) if cancelled within five days of your arrival date.

In the event of a no-show you will be required to pay the anticipated accommodation charge for your room(s).

Any governmental increase of VAT, as well as any increase in supplier costs within the period of acceptance of the contract and the date of your event, will be offset to you, the client.

Card payments only. We accept:

• MasterCard Credit
• MasterCard Debit
• Visa Credit
• Visa Debit
• American Express

Bivouac would like to invite all their guests to enjoy a family friendly experience with us and to this end we ask guests to respect the site, the surrounding countryside and each other whilst staying with us.

Site

1. Your booking at Bivouac includes use of your nominated accommodation along with use of the public areas, woodland walks, and parking areas. Please see site map for further details. Please do not cross the site boundary unless you know you have permission to do so. Some parts of the site have footpaths over the boundary; however others adjoin private land which accommodates vulnerable crops, livestock and protected rare species of wildlife.
2. Guests are advised that Bivouac is situated in the Nidderdale AONB and an SSI. All restrictions including access onto the moors, lighting of fires and dog control must be carefully observed at all times in relation to the Bivouac site and also on the surrounding Swinton Estate. Please observe the Countryside Code at all times and in particular consider others enjoying the countryside, close gates behind you and leave no trace of your visit and take your litter home.
3. Bivouac accepts no responsibility for the failure of services due to weather, nor for any difficulties experienced when accessing or leaving the site. During the winter months snow and ice are not uncommon; please drive carefully and responsibly at these times.
4. There is a public footpath that runs through the Bivouac site and also the adjoining woodland at Druid’s Temple. All guests are asked to respect this and not to disrupt the enjoyment of any walkers passing by. All events that are organised at Bivouac need to allow for this right of access.
5. There is a strict curfew on site at Bivouac that applies from 10.00 pm – 7.30 am. During that time no music, parties or gatherings can take place anywhere on site (apart from organised events taking place in the café).
6. Fireworks and Chinese Lanterns are not permitted anywhere on site at Bivouac or in the adjoining woodland, farmland or moors on the Swinton Estate.
7. Due to the remote location of Bivouac, children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times. Whilst we encourage guests to enjoy the surroundings of Bivouac, please note that care must be taken as areas may be slippery, particularly when wet.

Booking

1. All Bookings are confirmed only after the deposit has been paid. Bivouac reserves the right to cancel your booking if payment conditions are not upheld. Receipt of your booking deposit confirms your acceptance of all terms and conditions.
2. Your accommodation will be ready on the day of arrival by 4.00 pm, departure time is by 10.00 am on your day of departure.
3. When booking Tree Lodges, Meadow Yurts or The Loft: A 30% non-refundable deposit is payable to secure the booking. The final balance is payable 6 weeks prior to arrival at the latest.
4. For fire regulations a list of all resident and non-resident guests attending an event must be provided by the booker.

Damage Deposits

1. On arrival you will be required to leave a deposit amount of £200 per accommodation unit.
2. This deposit will be returned once the accommodation has been checked, usually within 14 days.
3. Single sex groups: Single sex groups will be charged double the deposit amount of £400 upon arrival, this is charged in case of the event of anti-social behaviour throughout your stay which might disturb our other guests.

Conduct

1. The named person(s) booking the accommodation is responsible for the behaviour and actions of their guests while at The Bivouac.
2. Guests may be asked to leave the premises if their behaviour is threatening, aggressive, anti-social, or damaging in any way to the other residents or to the premises. In this circumstance your full cooperation is expected.
3. For the comfort of all guests Bivouac ask that the site be kept quiet after 10.00 pm.

Groups

1. Stag and Hen Party Bookings are not permitted
2. We reserve the right, to refuse a booking, when you submit your booking through the online reservation system
3. Bookings for all groups, including large family or friend groups, must be notified to us and approved by us at the time of booking
4. Swinton Bivouac has the right to refuse group/and all-adult bookings if we feel that this may be of detriment to other guests staying.
5. A group is defined as more than five adult guests.
6. Please note that if you fail to comply with our rules on group bookings as set out in this section we may need to exercise our rights set out in ‘Conduct’ section 2.
7. It is essential that the entire group is made aware of the Terms and Conditions. This responsibility lies with the person making the booking in order to ensure that the Terms and Conditions are adhered to.
8. Whilst we accept mixed family adult only bookings during holidays the higher deposit charge will apply of £400 (see Section Damage Deposit point 4).

Payments

1. Any governmental increase of VAT, as well as any increase in supplier costs within the period of acceptance of the contract and the date of your event, will be offset to you, the client.
2. Cash is not accepted on the Swinton Estate
3. Card payments only. We accept:
   • MasterCard Credit
   • MasterCard Debit
   • Visa Credit
   • Visa Debit

Cancellation

1. When cancelling accommodation bookings, the deposit of 30% is not returnable. Any cancellation within the last 2–6 weeks prior to the date of stay will incur a charge of 75% of the total cost. Any cancellation within 2 weeks prior to the date of stay will incur a charge of 100% of total cost.
2. Cancellations must be sent in writing. Should Swinton Bivouac not be informed of your cancellation in writing, Bivouac will look to recover any loss of income in advance of your stay.
3. Bivouac will not be responsible for the failure to provide facilities contracted for in the event of it being prevented from doing so as a result of “Force Majeure” or any other cause beyond its control. This includes industrial disputes, orders or regulations issued by Central Government, Riots, Floods or Fire Epidemics. The Bivouac will not be responsible for any loss or damage or costs as a result.

Vehicles

1. Visitors staying in a Tree Lodge are required to park in the allocated space along the track or in the woodland car park. Meadow Yurt guests and Loft guests are required to park in the main car park in allocated spaces.
2. Day visitors to the site (including those visiting accommodation guests) are required to park at the main car park next to the main building.
3. There is a strict 5 mph speed limit whilst on site. Please observe this at all times.

Occupancy

1. The number of people staying in any accommodation must at no time exceed the number stated and agreed in the booking. The accommodation must not be sub-let.
2. The owners of Bivouac reserve the right to enter the accommodation at any reasonable time, and with reasonable prior notice if any urgent need were to arise (e.g. for health and safety reasons or urgent repair).
3. There is a maximum sleeping occupancy of 4 guests per Yurt, 7 guests per Tree Lodge and 6 guests in The Loft. Any additional occupants will be asked to leave the site.
4. Non-resident guests are not permitted in any accommodation after 10.00 pm.

Care for the Accommodation

1. Your accommodation will be prepared for your arrival. Bivouac expect everything to be left as you found it.
2. In the case of any accidents on the premises these must be reported immediately to a member of Bivouac staff at the main reception desk.
3. The named person(s) booking the accommodation will be held responsible for paying for any loss or damage to any part of the Bivouac premises, or to any fixtures, fittings and equipment which are caused by any member of the party.
4. If an exceptional level of cleaning is required after use of any of these facilities the cost will be charged to the named person.
5. We ask that you do not bring muddy boots into the accommodation.
6. All bed linen and towels are provided.
7. It is the responsibility of all guests to return any items removed from any accommodation unit to its original place by the time of departure (this includes cutlery, crockery, utensils etc.)
8. Guests must return all furniture within the accommodation to its original position by the time of departure.
9. Please ensure that all waste is taken to the designated area for disposal and please use the recycling facilities. Bin liners will be provided but please ask if more are required.

Due Care and Attention

1. Whilst we encourage guests to enjoy the public areas and woodlands, please note that care must be taken; walkways and stairs maybe slippery particularly when wet, footpaths and tracks maybe uneven with tree roots and rocks.
2. Children at The Bivouac must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.
3. Some areas of Swinton Bivouac will carry signs detailing rules specific to their location; for example, the woods, the accommodation and play areas. Guests must observe all site notices regarding the use of the Meadow Yurts, Tree Lodges, the public areas within Bivouac and all rules regarding the enjoyment of the Druids Temple and the woodland surrounding it.

Personal Belongings

1. Bivouac will not be held responsible for damage to any personal property brought onto the premises.

Lost Property

1. We have a 7‑day lost and found policy which means we can only keep an item found for that amount of time.
2. It is the guests’ responsibility to check for all personal belongings before departure from the Bivouac.
3. Any items found after guests have departed can to be sent to the guest at their expense. Any items sent by post or courier must be paid for in advance and it is the responsibility of the guest to select a suitable carrier and appropriate insurance.

Fires & Smoking

1. Bivouac take a firm view on managing fires and smoking and ask that guests are particularly vigilant in this area. The site contains a lot of trees, hand crafted wooden and canvas accommodation and we are alongside open moorland covered in peat and heather. Even the smallest of informal fires can quickly get out of hand.
2. There will be no fires or barbecues other than in the designated areas and with the equipment provided, failure to observe these requirements may result in your party being asked to vacate the site immediately.
3. Only logs supplied by Bivouac may be used in the stoves and fire pits.
4. Stoves provided in the accommodation are suitable for burning wood fuel only. Coal and other processed fuel types may result in irreparable damage to the stove and accommodation unit.
5. All guests that light fires are responsible for managing them safely and ensuring that they are extinguished after use.
6. Smoking is not permitted anywhere within Bivouac buildings and is only permitted in the designated fire pit areas and agreed smoking spots.
7. For fire regulations we are required to keep a log of all guests who will be residing at the Bivouac. The named person(s) must be given to a member of Bivouac staff on arrival.
8. No fires are permitted at all other than in the wood burners in the Yurts and Tree Lodges.
9. Guests can enjoy the use of a fire pit. Children must not be left unattended by a fire pit at any time. In the event of an emergency, please use the fire extinguisher and first aid kit supplied, but also alert a member of staff immediately. The use of fire pits after 10:00 pm is only permitted with the permission of the management.

Dogs

1. Dogs are only permitted in two of our Tree Lodges and Yurts, and in The Loft and the main floor of the Bivouac café. We need to know at the time of booking if dog is coming to stay so we can allocate the correct accommodation. No dogs can be left unattended at any time on the site.
2. Dogs must be kept on a lead whilst on site.
3. Please do not allow dogs to foul the site; all dog faeces must be cleaned up and deposited in the bins provided.
4. Dogs must be quiet and not cause disturbance to others. Failure to adhere to these terms and conditions will result in the guest being asked to leave the site or loss of damage deposit.

Hot Tub Safety Rules

1. People with heart disease, high or low blood pressure, any serious illness or who are pregnant, should not use the hot tub without consulting their doctor first
2. People with skin, ear, genital, or other body infections should not use the hot tub to avoid spreading infection
3. It is advised that children under the age of 8 should not use the hot tub. Children should be supervised at all times.
4. Be aware that the heat of the water can speed up the effects of alcohol
5. Do not immerse your head in the water as it increases the risk of infection (and you could drown).
6. Do not use electrical appliances near the water to avoid electric shocks
7. Do not use any contaminants such as bubble bath, oils etc. in the water
8. The flue is protected by a guard, and you should not make any attempt to touch the guard or flue whilst the burner is lit. The heater door may also be hot and should be opened using the insulated handle
9. Never allow the water temperature to go over 40°C (37°C for children)
10. Do not use the hot tub after a heavy meal or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or sedatives
11. We have zero drug policy. Any users found in possession of drugs or attempting to consume drugs will be asked to leave the hot tub premises immediately. No refunds will be given, and police/security staff will be notified

User Instructions

1. Read and adhere to the above Safety Rules
2. Change into bathing costume, strictly no underwear or daywear allowed in the hot tubs
3. Use the toilet before entering the hot tub
4. Shower thoroughly with soap and water before using the hot tub to remove lotions, deodorants, creams etc.
5. Dip your feet in the foot baths provided prior to entering the hot tub
6. Do not dive into the hot tub. Take care when entering and leaving, the surfaces may be slippery when wet. Place 2 hands on the top rim when using the steps as these may also be slippery and unstable.
7. Keep glass and sharp objects away from the hot tub
8. It is advised that you should not stay in the hot tub for longer than 15 minutes per 1 hour

Caution – metal surfaces may be hot to touch all surfaces may be slippery when wet

Sauna Safety Rules and Etiquette

1. Elderly people, People with heart disease, high or low blood pressure, any serious illness or who are pregnant, should not use the sauna without consulting their doctor first
2. People with open wounds or other body infections should not use the sauna to avoid spreading infection
3. Children under the age of 16 are not permitted to use the sauna
4. Be aware that heat can speed up the effects of alcohol
5. The flue and heater door may be hot and should be opened using the insulated handle, please take care at all times, please do not add water to the stone while anyone is in close proximity to avoid risk of burns.
6. Do not use the sauna after a heavy meal or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or sedatives
7. Never use the sauna alone, ensure there is always another person present.
8. Never sleep in the sauna. If you begin to feel unwell, leave the sauna immediately.
9. Take care as some surfaces may be slippery and uneven. No outdoor footwear is to be worn in the sauna; however appropriate footwear should be worn whilst moving around external areas.
10. Change into bathing costume, strictly no underwear or daywear allowed in the sauna. Do not hang clothes to dry in the sauna as this may cause a risk of fire.
11. Shower thoroughly before using the sauna to remove lotions, deodorants, creams etc.
12. Bring a towel into the sauna to sit on – this will reduce contact with timbers
13. Drink plenty of fluids
14. Do not use the sauna for longer than 10 minutes at a time. Periodically shower in cool water to reduce body temperature. (The sauna works by putting a positive stress on the body. the body adapts to temperature changes and in doing so the health benefits are achieved)
15. Keep glass and sharp objects away from the sauna. Food and gum should also not be taken into the sauna.

Caution – metal surfaces may be hot to touch all surfaces may be slippery when wet

The Owner (Swinton Estate) has the right to refuse any Booking, without reason.

Any disputes or queries with respect to these Conditions, or any other matter will be dealt with by You as the party leader.

The booking creates a license to occupy for the purposes of a holiday (and not for any business purpose) and nothing in these Conditions shall create the relationship of landlord and tenant between You and the Owner.

Where You are also a Party Leader, You are responsible for compliance with these Conditions and the Contract by all members of the party. ‘You’ shall also mean any member of your party, unless stated otherwise.

Guest Numbers

The maximum number of occupants at the Property shall be the number stated at the time of booking.

At the time of booking you must provide the Owner with a list of the occupants in your party, which must include the name, address, and age of each person. Should this list change at any time prior to the Rental Date, you must inform the Owner immediately and this must be no less than 7 days before the check in date. If a charge for extra guests is applicable, then the funds must be received in full no less than 72 hours before the check in date.

If during the Rental Period the persons occupying the Property during the Rental Period varies from the list provided by You, and the Owner has not consented to the change, the Owner may, by written notice to You, immediately terminate the Contract without liability and gain access to the Property.

Groups

The Property owner is not obliged to accept bookings for hen parties and stag parties and asks that You notify the Property owner prior to booking so that consent can be obtained by the Owner prior to Written Confirmation of Rental being obtained/sent. The whole party and for compliance with these Conditions.

Third Party Services

The Owner provides no promise with respect to the quality of services provided by third parties at the Property including, but not limited to, internet service, telephone reception and television reception.

Duration and Term of Rental

The letting will commence on the Rental Date and continue for the duration of the Rental Period and shall terminate on the last day of the Rental Period. Check in is from 4.00 pm (occasionally later) and check out is 10.00 am.

You confirm that the information you have provided to the Owner is true, accurate, current and complete information in all respects. Should any information provided change, you should notify the Owner immediately. The Owner shall not be liable if any incorrect information provided by You results in the Owner being entitled to terminate the Contract.

You agree to:

• Not cause any damage to the Property, including all furniture and fixtures and fittings
• Keep the Property and all furniture, fixtures and fittings in the same state as repair as to which you found them at the commencement of the Rental Period.
• Leave the Property in the same state of cleanliness as that in which You found it at the commencement of the Rental Period;
• Keep all furniture as you found it, so as to not remove it from the place that it was originally placed or place it back to its original place prior to the end of the Rental Period. You will be liable for any damage caused by You in this respect;
• Empty any bins and dispose of any rubbish in the outside bins provided at the Property and following the instructions of the Owner where provided.

Deposit / Pre Payment

A 30% non refundable / non transferable deposit is required at the time of booking to confirm your cottage reservation.

The outstanding balance is payable six weeks prior to your arrival date.

The credit/debit card used to make the initial deposit payment will be charged automatically.

If your arrival date is within six weeks of the booking date pre payment of the room rate will be required at the time of booking.

Deposits or pre-payments may be required for additional services booked at the time of making your cottage reservation.

Cautionary Deposit

‘Cautionary Deposit’ means the deposit to be paid by You and held by the Owner as security against any damages and/or any requirement for additional cleaning, whether discovered during the Rental Period or after your departure.

A Cautionary Deposit of one additional night’s rental will be processed by Credit/Debit card upon check in. Where You opt for online/contactless check in the Credit/Debit card held to secure the accommodation deposit will be charged.

The Owner is entitled to use the Cautionary Deposit in the following circumstances:

• Should You or any member of your party damage the Property, or any equipment or fittings at the Property, or leave it in a condition where additional cleaning is required;
• Should You or any member of your party be in breach of any of these Conditions;
• Should the Owner be required to remedy any damage caused to the Property during the Rental Period;
• To charge for additional guests which have not been approved by the Owner. Such charge will be made at the rate in force by the Owner at the time of the Rental Period; or
• To deduct such charges and make such payments to the Owner or third party contractors (with notice of such payment being provided to you in writing first) should the evidence provided by the Owner of the damage or other issue at the Property, which has been caused by You, result in the Owner having to take reasonable action to correct such damage or other matter.

The Owner will contact you within 3 Business Days after the Rental Date to advise you if the Owner intends to make a claim for any damage against the Cautionary Deposit.

Should a claim be made by the Owner against the Cautionary Deposit, details of such claim will be provided to You within 14 days of the expiry of the Rental Period. Any disputes or queries with respect to the claim must be received from You within 14 days of the claim notification.

Should the Cautionary Deposit provide an insufficient remedy, the Owner shall have the right to recover any sum from You so as to make up any shortfall.

In the event that You or any member of your party causes severe damage to the Property which results in the Owner having to cancel subsequent bookings and/or pay compensation to any person due to the Property being left in an uninhabitable state by You, or which reduces the services offered to subsequent guests, You shall indemnify the Owner in full for any loss incurred by them which the Cautionary Deposit does not cover.

Cancellation

If we need to change or cancel your booking We don’t expect to have to make changes to your booking, however sometimes problems happen, and bookings have to be changed or cancelled. We will only change or cancel your booking:

• If necessary to perform or complete essential remedial or refurbishment works
• For other reasons unforeseen at the time you made your booking which are beyond our reasonable control. This may include occasions where the Accommodation becomes inaccessible due to a Meteorological Office Severe Weather Warning or other severe weather event.
• If we do need to change or cancel your booking for the reason set out above we will do our best to offer you a suitable alternative booking. If we’re not able to offer you a suitable alternative, or if you don’t accept the alternative we offer, the booking will be deemed cancelled and we will refund you the total amount you have paid us for the booking.
• If we do need to change or cancel your booking because it becomes impossible to deliver the booking due to unforeseen events beyond our reasonable control, we’ll do our best to offer you a suitable alternative booking for either the same dates or alternative dates. If you don’t accept the alternative we offer, the booking will be deemed cancelled and we will refund you the total amount you have paid us for the booking.

The Owner reserves the right to terminate the Contract, or refuse to hand over to you the Property, at any time where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that You or your party are likely to breach any of the Conditions in terms of;

• The number of persons staying at the Property
• You have provided incorrect information to the Owner with respect to your booking; and
• You have behaved in an abusive or unlawful manner towards the Owner, any third party supplying services to the Property or any neighbours of the Property.

The above actions shall constitute a breach of contract by You and Owner shall consider the booking as cancelled by You. In these circumstances You shall not be entitled to a refund of any monies or alternative accommodation.

If you need to cancel your booking, the following terms apply.

• The deposit of 30% is not returnable
• Any cancellation within the last 2–6 weeks prior to the date of stay will incur a charge of 75% of the total costs.
• Any cancellation within 2 weeks prior to the date of stay will incur a charge of total cost.

Payment Methods

Any governmental increase of VAT, as well as any increase in supplier costs within the period of acceptance of the contract and the date of your event, will be offset to you, the client

We accept the following payment types – Please note cash is not accepted across the Swinton Estate.

• MasterCard Credit
• MasterCard Debit
• Visa Credit
• Visa Debit
• American Express

On Site Behaviour

We ask that noise in and outside the property is kept to a minimum, as not to disturb other guests and residents. Any non residents guests visiting your cottage are ask to vacate the cottage by 10.30pm.

Smoking / Fires / BBQ

Please note smoking includes use of vapours and/or e‑cigarettes. You and your party must not smoke inside your Accommodation. You and your party must not use candles, fireworks or Chinese lanterns at your Accommodation. You and your party must not use a barbecue or fire pit at your Accommodation unless we have provided one.

If your Accommodation has an open fire, stove or wood burner, you must comply with the instructions found in the welcome folder, particularly regarding the appropriate fuel to use for your safety. If there is no open fire, stove or wood burner you must not create your own anywhere at the Accommodation.

Dogs

Swinton Estate welcomes well behaved dogs. You must tell us at the time of booking if you wish to bring a dog. We ask that you remove any dog waste from the garden before checking out. Unfortunately, no other domestic pets are permitted at our properties. There is a charge of £30.00 per dog per stay. Dogs are not permitted upstairs in any cottage accommodation. When visiting the Hotel and wider Estate we do request that dogs be kept on a lead at all times and that any dog waste is cleared and placed in the bins around the grounds. Dogs are permitted in the Hotels Morning Room, Lower Hall, Billiards Room, and Terrace Bar Only.

Your Obligations with respect to the Property and its use

• Report any damage at the Property not caused by You to the Owner’s Representative on your day of arrival. Report as soon as possible to the Owner, any breakages or damage caused by You or your party during the Rental Period.
• Not to undertake any repairs of any kind to the Property, furniture and fixtures and fittings yourself
• Not to use the Property for any illegal purpose or take any illegal substance thereon Abide by the Conditions.

Our Right of Access

Our staff or contractors may need to access your Accommodation if there is an unforeseen problem, to investigate a complaint you have made, or to perform certain routine property checks. If this happens, we’ll do our best to let you know in advance of the date and time that we will need access.

If we do need to access your Accommodation for any reason, we’ll always try to access the property at reasonably convenient times (other than in the event of an emergency).

Full payment is required at time of booking.

If somebody would like to cancel their reservation, 50% will always be withheld.

The remaining 50% will be refundable until 48 hours before the treatment/day.

For cancellations & amendment made within 48 hours of arrival the full 100% will be lost.

Change of date prior to 48 hours is permitted.

Swinton Cookery School Terms and Conditions – Children’s Courses, Teenager Day Courses, Half Day Courses, BBQ Courses and Chef’s Table

Our Commitment: Swinton Park will use all reasonable endeavors to provide cookery courses of high quality that are enjoyable and value for money. These terms and conditions have been carefully written to ensure that there are no misunderstandings that could detract from your enjoyment. Please take time to read them carefully.

We reserve the right to cancel or change the date of a course where it is impractical for a course to run effectively, and issues that we will take into consideration in reaching this decision will be staffing, equipment, attendance levels and any other matters that affect the operation of the course. We will use all reasonable endeavors to give you 4 weeks’ notice (in the case of a half day course) and 14 days’ notice (in the case of all other courses covered by these terms and conditions) of a course being cancelled.

In the event that the principal instructor or masterclass demonstrator is unable to attend a course due to illness or other matters beyond our control, we reserve the right to run the course using a deputy in their place.

Your Commitment: You are liable for the cost of a cookery school course in full, and we strongly recommend that you consider your insurance cover in the event of cancellation. A full refund will only be made where you cancel a course no later than 21 days prior to the date of the commencement of the course. Subject to these provisions, all bookings are non-refundable. If you wish to change the date of a course, we will be as flexible as possible but this is a matter for our discretion and will depend on the circumstances, and we cannot guarantee that you will not have to cancel your place on the course.

Please note that vouchers are non-refundable in all circumstances, but can (at our discretion) be applied to accommodation, food or other hotel amenities not specified on the voucher. The provisions given above with regard to cancellation also apply, to the effect that a voucher will be reduced in value by 100% if cancellation is given within 14 days of the commencement of a course.

Non Cooking Partners: Partners are only permitted to join the Half Day Courses and Deerhouse BBQ Courses; subject to availability, and advance booking is required.

Other Activities: Please refer to our brochure/website for details of other experiences, such as golf, fishing, shooting, walking and the spa and treatments, and book in advance where it is indicated that this is necessary.

Timings: Please note that the timing details for each course given in our brochure, website and other publicity materials are approximate, and given for guidance only.

Health and Safety: The equipment used in the cookery school kitchen, and the cooking techniques involved on a course pose certain hazards. Please follow the course principal’s guidance on hygiene, handling any equipment and on any technical procedures very carefully. Most of the course will be spent standing (although there is seating available should you choose to rest), so please wear comfortable shoes and casual clothing at all times. Aprons will be provided, but please remove any watches, jewelry or other items of loose clothing that may cause inconvenience. Cooks of all ages and experience are welcome on the courses, but we reserve the right to ask a guest to leave a course if they are behaving in an irresponsible manner.

Payment: Any governmental increase of VAT, as well as any increase in supplier costs within the period of acceptance of the contract and the date of your event, will be offset to you, the client.

Card payments only. We accept: MasterCard Credit, MasterCard Debit, Visa Credit, Visa Debit and American Express.

Swinton Cookery School Terms and Conditions – One and Two Day Course, Professional Development Course, Christmas in a Box

Our Commitment: Swinton Park will use all reasonable endeavors to provide cookery courses of high quality that are enjoyable and value for money. These terms and conditions have been carefully written to ensure that there are no misunderstandings that could detract from your enjoyment. Please take time to read them carefully.

We reserve the right to cancel or change the date of a course where it is impractical for a course to run effectively, and issues that we will take into consideration in reaching this decision will be staffing, equipment, attendance levels and any other matters that affect the operation of the course. We will use all reasonable endeavors to give you 8 weeks notice of a course being cancelled.

In the event that the principal instructor or masterclass demonstrator is unable to attend a course due to illness or other matters beyond our control, we reserve the right to run the course using a deputy in their place.

Your Commitment: You are liable for the cost of a cookery school course in full, and we strongly recommend that you insure the holiday in the event that you have to cancel your place on the course. A full refund will only be made where you cancel a course no later than 16 weeks prior to the date of the commencement of the course. A 50% refund will only be made where you cancel a course no later than 12 weeks prior to the date of the commencement of a course. Subject to these provisions, all bookings are non-refundable. If you wish to change the date of a course, we will be as flexible as possible but this is a matter for our discretion and will depend on the circumstances, and we cannot guarantee that you will not have to cancel your place on the course.

Please note that vouchers are non-refundable in all circumstances, but can (at our discretion) be applied to accommodation, food or other hotel amenities not specified on the voucher. The provisions given above with regard to cancellation also apply, to the effect that a voucher will be reduced in value by 50% if cancellation is given between 16 and 12 weeks prior to the commencement of a course, and by 100% if cancellation is given within 12 weeks of the commencement of a course.

Non Cooking Partners: Where the course structure permits (please see our website for details), non-cooking partners are welcome to join the course for a meal. This is subject to availability and advance booking must be made for each meal required. In some cases numbers are limited on a “first come first served” basis, we recommend that you contact the cookery school at the earliest opportunity to avoid disappointment.

Other Activities: Please refer to our brochure/website for details of other experiences, such as golf, fishing, shooting, walking and the spa and treatments, and book in advance where it is indicated that this is necessary.

Payment: Any governmental increase of VAT, as well as any increase in supplier costs within the period of acceptance of the contract and the date of your event, will be offset to you, the client.

Card payments only. We accept: MasterCard Credit, MasterCard Debit, Visa Credit, Visa Debit and American Express.

Swinton Estate’s policy of including a discretionary service charge across each of the hotel’s retail outlets was introduced in 2018, with the aim to reward every member of staff who contributes towards the Swinton Estate experience.

It is extremely difficult to acknowledge exceptional service from those members of staff who operate in less visible hotel departments, which is why the service charge is distributed equally.

For our guests who choose to pay the service charge, you can be assured that this money is given back to Swinton Estate’s staff. There are no deductions for administration or payment which is done via their wages with the relevant tax paid. The exception is only for any commission should the bill be settled using a credit or debit card and only for the amount pertaining to the service charge.

Services charge rates apply on the following: 5% on all resident’s accounts (accommodation, on food and beverages, Spa and other) and 12.5% non-resident lunch / dinner meals in the restaurant. A 5% charge will be placed on all weddings and events held on the Estate. No further gratuities are required.

For any further information ask a member of staff or call our reservations team on 01765 680900.

Access is by kind permission of the Swinton Estate. There are no public rights of way within the Parkland.

1. These terms and conditions apply to your purchase of any tickets to Swinton Estate, including:
   • Park and Gardens tickets;
   • Annual Passes; and
   • Private Guided Tours
2. Opening hours, events and offers are subject to change and at times it may be necessary to restrict access to the facilities. While we will endeavour to publicise any such changes on our website and ticket offices, we strongly advise checking the relevant details by visiting swintonestate.com or calling our reservations office before you visit.
3. Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged.
4. We reserve the right to refuse the sale of a ticket or entry to any part of the Estate where it is reasonable for us to do so.
5. Tickets may not be resold.
6. Any tickets defaced will be void.
7. Visitors will be admitted upon presentation of a valid ticket.
8. All children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.
9. Please be aware that there are some areas in and around the park and grounds, which are not quite level and areas where visitors could fall. Rather than put up signs to spoil your view or to restrict access to these areas, we want to keep things just as they were intended years ago. This relies on our visitors being alert to these potential issues and particularly keeping young children nearby and safe.
10. Swinton Estate shall have no responsibility for any loss or damage suffered by you or occurring to any items belonging to you, other than in the event of death or personal injury occurring to you as the result of Swinton Estate’s negligence. Swinton Estate will not be responsible for any loss or any expense due to circumstances beyond Swinton Estate’s control.
11. Drone filming is not permitted onsite without the prior consent of Swinton Estate.
12. Commercial photography and filming in the Swinton Estate may not be publicly distributed without prior permission of Swinton Estate.
13. Except where a wedding has taken place on the Swinton Estate, wedding photography is not permitted within the Swinton Estate unless the prior consent of Swinton Estate has been obtained.
14. Dogs are permitted in the Walled Garden but must always be kept on a lead. Dogs are allowed off their lead in the park where livestock are not present and are always the responsibility / under the control of the owner.
15. Except for the bike track and permitted routes cycling is not allowed on the Swinton Estate and specifically not within the parkland.
16. The use of BBQs – disposable or otherwise – is not permitted on site. Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics, and we ask that visitors dining in the Park do not litter by using the bins provided or taking their litter home. Benches are provided near the children’s activity area.
17. We may conduct security searches of persons, clothing, bags and other items, both on entry and exit in order to protect your safety and that of other visitors and staff.
18. The following items are prohibited within the boundary of the premises:
    • Any items which are or appear to be illegal.
    • Weapons, ammunition, explosives, horns, whistles, drums, fireworks, flagpoles, banners, balloons, sporting equipment, large umbrellas or any other item which in our reasonable opinion may cause danger or disruption to any event, to other visitors, staff or resident wildlife
19. Visitors are not permitted to bring food and beverages into the hotel terrace or bivouac café areas.

Annual Passes

1. Annual Passes are valid from the time of purchase for 12-months, during normal Park opening times.
2. A valid Annual Pass must be shown on entry on every visit.
3. Possession of an Annual Pass entitles the bearer and one guest only to admission. Identity will be verified by means of a photograph taken and included within the Annual Pass.
4. Annual Passes are not valid for separately ticketed events in Swinton Estate.
5. This offer is not valid in conjunction with any other special offer, themed or garden tour or group.
6. Annual Passes do not include access to events organised by Swinton Park Hotel Ltd.

Lost, Stolen and Forgotten Annual Passes

1. If you have forgotten your Annual Pass, please phone ahead to inform us of your arrival. If you do not do so, you may be charged the full entry price at the shop.
2. If your Annual Pass is lost or stolen, a £5 replacement charge will be applied on the Spa reception. 

Pet-Friendly Areas

• Your four-legged friend must be on a lead when in the hotel lobby, and all public areas.
• Dogs are not permitted in the spa or drawing room
• At breakfast dogs are welcome when dining at our high tables within Samuels restaurant
• In an evening if you wish to eat in our restaurants, please pre-book a dog friendly table within the Terrace Bar or alternatively you can leave your pooch to snooze in your room.
• We do not allow dogs at dinner in Samuels Restaurant, the inside area of the Terrace Restaurant or Chefs Table
• Other dog friendly areas include, the Private Sitting Room, the Billiards room, the Morning room and the Lower hall.
• We ask that you don’t leave dogs unattended in bedrooms without first letting the reception team know and leaving a contact number of where they can be reached – please use the door hanger provided when leaving a dog in your room.
• Owners are asked to take full responsibility for their pet’s behaviour throughout their stay. If not, you may be charged for any damage/disturbance caused. We ask that they are well-behaved throughout your stay. Owners are asked to control any noise made by their dog to ensure it does not disturb other guests.
• Hotel guests have the use of the castle and Coach House boot rooms where dog towels are provided.
• Dogs are permitted in the cottage residences, but we ask that they are kept out of all bedrooms. In all cases, we ask that dogs are not allowed on the furniture and use the dog beds provided
• Guide dogs are, of course, permitted in all areas

Housekeeping and Damage to Bedrooms/Common Areas

• For the safety and comfort of your pet, Housekeeping will only enter your room if: (a) your pet is not present, or (b) you are present with your pet (dog’s must be on a lead), or © your pet is safely tucked up in its crate.
• While we welcome dogs in the hotel, it is also vital that we take steps to protect any allergy sufferers who may also be staying with us. Therefore, it’s important that any guest notifies us at the time of booking if they suffer from a pet allergy, so that we can allocate a room away from where a dog may be staying
• We kindly request that your dog does not sit on any furniture in public spaces.
• Should your dog soil within the room causing permanent damage or the necessity for additional cleaning services, or any other damage, you will be charged accordingly.

If you have any questions about staying at Swinton Estate with your four-legged friend please get in touch with our teams below.