There's never been a better time to holiday closer to home. Over half term we were looking for a short break to suit myself, partner and my 12 year old step-daughter which offered activities to entertain us all as well as offer a chance to chill out and relax. Brompton Lakes, a new innovative eco lodge style holiday based in private grounds on the outskirts of Richmond, North Yorkshire charmed us with its home from home comforts and serene, relaxing surroundings.

Set on the shores of two privately owned lakes and surrounded by woodland, Brompton lakes, provides a perfect base for families with all the home luxuries you would expect of a 5 star self catering complex. All lodges are three-bedroomed and combine the latest green building techniques with stylish interior design. The lodges are fully equipped and encourage you to be eco friendly with eco products and recycling facilities provided.

The outside decking overhangs the lake but provides a safe environment for children, with gates fitted on both sides of the deck, inside there is plenty of space for your children to explore and play safely. The complex can provide you with bikes to investigate your surroundings or you can play tennis, fish or walk on site.

Brompton Lakes seems to have a magical effect on children (and adults) of all ages, taking you back to nature, feeding the ducks, watching the bird life and taking on a slower pace. Or it could possibly have something to do with the fun feeling that you are in a surreal teletubby land with the rolling structures of beautifully designed buildings and landscaping.

It is clear from the visitor book that all the families who visit here are captivated, comments such as "I love it here and love feeding the ducks" Katie, age 6, "It's a cool place" Josh, age 10, "I love being here" Lucy, age 5, "I loved staying here, I loved fishing and tennis and I really loved the lodge" Hannah age 8 "We have had a wonderful week with three children aged 8, 6 and 11 weeks old, my husband who has rediscovered the joys of fishing (enormous carp caught daily), and a sleep deprived mother with a very happy baby, it has been perfect" Family, West London. My step daughter felt so at home she didn't ever want to leave. To be honest neither did we, the atmosphere and ambience of the whole place transfixed us.

Brompton lakes are nicely placed to explore North Yorkshire. Locally there are many things to keep you occupied, on your doorstep is the small town of Richmond which has a unique character and charm and offers a castle, old cobbled streets to explore and The Station (a recently converted building which houses two cinemas, a delicious ice cream parlour and other food outlets, crafts and bistro). Richmond also houses the oldest working Georgian theatre in Britain. From Brompton Lakes you can walk to Easby Abbey and through to the town.

Other places worth visiting in the area include Hazel Brow Farm in Swaledale, an organic farm which offers hands on activities as well as a nature trail and children's play area. If you are looking for something a bit more extreme then how about Aerial Extreme, Bedale or further afield to Go ape in Dalby Forest or horse riding at Masham riding and trekking centre. Thorpe Perrow Arboretum, near Bedale, Forbidden Corner, Near Middleham and Newby Hall, Near Ripon are all a short drive away.

Our short break was taken for 2 nights in October Half Term 2009 in Louis Lodge.

Brompton Lakes are 5 star self catering eco-lodges which are open all year with short off season breaks available. Prices start from £330 for a 2 nights stay. Please refer to pricing details here http://www.bromptonlakes.co.uk/lodge-pricing.asp

Brompton Lakes' eco credentials can be viewed here

Awards: Gold David Bellamy Conservation Award - an initiative designed to highlight holiday developments that make a special effort to protect and enhance the natural world. Silver medal for Green Apple Awards for the Built Environment and Architectural Heritage 2009

For further information check out their website here: http://www.bromptonlakes.co.uk

For further information about North Yorkshire visit the Yorkshire Tourist Board here http://www.yorkshire.com/

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