Planning a luxury staycation this summer? If you’re looking for something a little different this year, then why not try glamping? The perfect choice for those eager to immerse themselves in the scenic British countryside and escape the fast pace of day-to-day life, it’s the perfect way to reconnect with nature, destress, and get back to feeling your best.
From the breath-taking Cornish coast to the verdant hills of the Cotswolds, there are a host of exclusive destinations to choose from to suit all tastes. Because most glamping sites are relatively intimate, they offer the ideal chance to avoid the masses for a holiday experience that’s truly restorative – and unlike standard campsites, they provide all of the mod-cons and home comforts you need for an enjoyable stay.
There’s no need to rough it in order to enjoy the great outdoors this summer, and from soft furnishings to cooking facilities, the best glamping spots in the country have it all. Of course, it’s still wise to pack some essentials for the trip to ensure you have all bases covered – an led high-end torch is a wise choice and will help to light your way around the glamping site. In the countryside, far from the light pollution of big cities, it can get decidedly dark at night, so a torch light (read this excellent buying guide: olightstore.uk/blog/how-to-choose-the-best-camping-torch.html) can be a great way to keep you and your family safe and prevent any accidents – or worse still, getting lost!
Warm clothing is also a must, as it can get surprisingly cold at night in the great outdoors – don’t forget some cosy thermal socks and a jumper for after dark, and some waterproofs and sensible shoes for hiking and walking.
If you’re new to glamping, then these five luxurious sites are certain to please. Set in beautiful locations and with all the facilities and little luxuries you could want, they’re truly some of the best the UK has to offer.
Abbey Home Farm, Gloucestershire
Nestled in the leafy green countryside close to Burford, Abbey Home Farm is home to a variety of sophisticated huts and yurts that are designed to suit even the most discerning of travellers. This organic farm offers the perfect rural escape, with fresh produce including milk, fruits and vegetables and meat – all of which come from the farm itself – available in the on-site shop and an exclusive hideaway in the form of its off-grid shepherds’ huts in the woods for those looking for complete seclusion and privacy.
From £150 for two nights.
Ten Acres Vineyard, Devon
For the ultimate luxury experience, head to Ten Acres – the perfect Devonshire glamping spot for the seasoned wine enthusiast, and a place where quality tipples are never in short supply, nor out of reach. Home to a small and intimate glamping site with just 15 pitches, three of these are bell tents designed especially with happy glampers in mind. The six-metre Luna bell tent is spacious and stylishly furnished, leaving you wanting for nothing and making for the perfect pick for an opulent stay.
The cellar-door shop on site sells a selection of wines, local ales and ciders, fresh produce and camping accessories, and with the quaint countryside village of Winkleigh nearby, there’s plenty to explore in the vicinity.
From £95 for two nights, including vineyard tour and wine tasting.
Soul Camping, Cornwall
Nestled in a secluded meadow just a 20-minute stroll from the pretty north Cornwall town of Port Isaac, Soul Camping offers up a selection of sophisticated luxury bell tents furnished with quality double beds and real Egyptian cotton bedding. Other than yourself, there are few things you’ll need to bring along, as each tent is fully equipped with a dining table and chairs, hand-woven rugs, a tea set, ice bucket and champagne flutes. If you’re travelling with children, then Soul has essential items like high chairs and cots available on request, too.
From £294 for a two-night stay.
Wild Meadow, Norfolk
If exclusivity is at the top of your list when planning a summer getaway, then head to Wild Meadow in Norfolk, where you’ll have the chance to stay in one of just four high-end yurts on the picturesque Raynham estate. Nestled amidst swaying meadows of wildflowers and rolling green hills, it’s a place where peace and quiet is guaranteed, making it a haven away from the stresses and strains of modern life and the ideal place to indulge in some much-needed rest and relaxation.
The yurts themselves are well equipped with comfortable beds, wood-burning stoves and a barbecue area, but there’s also a communal tent providing cooking space and equipment, as well as a social area in which guests can eat, read or shelter from the rain.
From £400 for a three-night stay.
Burning Heart River Camp, East Sussex
Set amidst sprawling green fields and on the banks of a picturesque river, Burning Heart River Camp is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or family minibreak and gives guests the opportunity to get straight back to nature with activities such as wild swimming, fishing and kayaking.
From one of the site’s stylish yurts, enjoy river views directly from your king-size bed, and during the summer months, cool off after a long day in the sunshine with an outdoor shower. A tranquil site with all the little luxuries you could hope for on hand, it’s certain to make for a memorable stay.
