The best outdoor retreats and glamping spots in the UK
The best outdoor retreats and glamping spots in the UK
There’s something so magical about camping where you can spend the evening stargazing, toasting marshmallows around a firepit and drinking your morning coffee al fresco surrounded by nature. But these places take it to another level…
Main image: Feather Down Farms (c) Tom & Lizzie Redman Photography
Quality family time
Feather Down Farms, various locations
With its philosophy of getting off-grid, there’s no electricity or Wi-Fi at Feather Down Farms. Instead, the emphasis is on kicking back with family and friends, meeting the animals on the farm, stargazing and enjoying walks in beautiful surroundings. There’s no skimping on luxury: inside the vast tent is a proper double bed, a cupboard bed and bunk beds. Tents are gorgeously rustic chic, and come with all the kitchen kit you will need, a wood-burning stove and dining table.
(c) Tom & Lizzie Redman Photography
Wellbeing weekends
Forest Retreats, Hill Farm, Tintern
Tucked between the gorgeous Wye Valley just at the edge of Tintern in Wales, you’ll find this idyllic rural bolthole. The beautifully decorated yurts feature comfy beds, rugs and a fire. Take part in yoga classes while admiring the views from the studio, then explore the area with guided bare-foot forest bathing. The eco-spa features a wood-fired hot-tub and sauna and massages are on offer to reduce your stress levels still further.
For food and wine lovers
Hencote Wine Estate, Shrewsbury
Stay on a vineyard at Hencote Wine Estate, where you can enjoy wine tours and dine at The View, which has a panoramic vista across the Shropshire countryside. Dishes are made from scratch and produce is sourced locally. The tents feature logburners and roll-top baths, with some also offering outdoor hot tubs. Head into foodie Ludlow, wander Shrewsbury or go on a ramble – the Wrekin is a popular choice.
Luxury get-togethers
The Nest, Stamford
With your own private lake for kayaking and wild swimming, this collection of three tents can be booked individually or for a group gathering. You can hire a screen to watch a movie from your private deck, relax in your bathtub with views over the lake, and cook up a feast al fresco or in the fully-equipped kitchen. The Lincolnshire site has plenty on its doorstep, including historic houses and Rutland Water with its many activities.
