Glamping & Luxury Camping Articles & Guides | Country & Town House

The Best Glamping Holidays in the UK

Rebecca Cox — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 10:53:29 +0000

While camping purists might detest the word, glamping is one travel trend that keeps going from strength to strength. While it once meant a portable charger and a plug for your hairdryer, glamping in the UK now encompasses shepherd’s huts, yurts and plush tipis, so you can be at one with nature without a crick in your neck or soggy socks. Read on for a guide to the best glamping in the UK.

Best Glamping Holidays in the UK 2023

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Glen Helen Glamping – Isle of Man

At the foot of Glen Helen, one of the Isle of Man’s 18 national glens, you’ll find six luxurious glamping pods. All have ensuite showers, underfloor heating and a kitchenette, plus one king size bed and two sofa beds – perfect for families. Outside each pod there’s a little deck area with seating, complete with a BBQ, firepit and hot tub. The Isle of Man is renowned for its dark skies sites, and Glen Helen itself is a near-zero light pollution area, which makes it perfect for stargazing. While you’re there, it’s also worth exploring the adjacent wildflower meadow – a haven for wildlife. You’ll fall for the island’s charm – and who knows, maybe you’ll even be tempted to relocate… glenhelenglamping.com

Luxury Cocoons at Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa – Devon

This stunning 80-acre Devon holiday destination has launched luxury cocoon accommodation for visitors looking to get a little closer to nature. The unique glamping pods – four metres tall, with a floor-to-ceiling window – offer an off-grid experience that guarantees privacy and tranquillity without being cut off from home comforts (like a roll top bath, private decking, first pit and swing arm barbecue, of course). The translucent cocoon fabric stretches across a curved steel structure, providing natural light during the day and a magical, warm glow at night. clawfordlakes.co.uk

White House Glamping – Wye Valley, Herefordshire

Along a mile-long stretch of the River Wye sit a collection of tipis courtesy of White House Glamping – part of the working White House Farm, so expect to see some cows when you wake up in the morning. Perfect for adults and children alike, the tipis are cosy and well-furnished – kitted out with a BBQ, fridge-freezer and kettle – with an outdoor seating and relaxation area to boot. Just bring your own food, and you’re all set. Whether you fancy watersports like fishing and canoeing, watching a movie under the stars at the outdoor cinema, or exploring the beautiful surrounding area, there’s something for everyone here. whitehouseonwye.co.uk

The Woodlands Kabin – Hampshire

Part of the Cedar Valley cabins, we couldn’t but not add it to the list. This timber panelled minimalistic marvel is the ultimate designers’ catnip. Replete with a wood burning stove, outdoor tub, and glorious views, this one is a gem for a couples retreat. cedarvalley.co.uk

Photo: Ben Stevens

Hill’s Cross Hide – Devon

Even if it tips down with rain the whole week; you won’t even be passive aggressive about it at Hill’s Cross Hide as you can curl up in the most cocoon-like hideaway and watch the world go by. We can’t think of anything better. canopyandstars.co.uk

Thorning Farm – Marros Bychan, Carmarthenshire

Down a bumpy farm track and on the Wales Coastal Path is a camping and glamping site with salty air and sublime sunsets. With views of the sea and near a quiet sandy bay there are options to pitch your own, bring a van or try out one of the new geodesic domes, with fully equipped, covered kitchens. There’s a little farm shop onsite, each camping pitch has a fire pit and dining table and Craig Evans, TV’s best known coastal forager, takes groups foraging for cockles down the road at Pendine – perfect for cooking up with coastal views at the end of the day. thorningfarmglamping.co.uk

Cedars Cabin – Hampshire

Perfect for those who covertly hate camping because you’ll be oh so spoilt here. Cedar Valley has a range of options (safari tents, camping, and so on), but either way, you’ll be suitably recharged being amongst the trees. cedarvalley.co.uk

Home Farm Glamping – Hertfordshire

If you’re looking for a glamping spot close to London, Home Farm is the answer: a rural hideaway nestled within 150 acres of Hertfordshire countryside. You’ll find 12 boho-style bell tents and yurts amid the greenery, alongside a whole host of activities for all the family – from yoga to tree climbing and storytelling. The site also hosts a mini-festival experience, At Home Farm, complete with live music, al fresco feasts and performances from Gifford Circus. homefarmglamping.com

Hencote Wine Estate – Shropshire

Take a break in the West Midlands at Hencote, where guests can get stuck into a selection of award-winning wines, take in the local scenery and relax in one of many luxury glamping lodges. Nestled between the rolling hills of Shropshire and Hencote’s vineyards, the glampsite is perfectly poised to offer guests the best of the British countryside and its produce. BOOK IT Glamping packages start at £430. hencote.com.

Read our review of Hencote Wine Estate here

Cwm Ty Coed – Carmarthenshire

This thirty acre smallholding has bell tents, yurts and grass pitches and caters brilliantly for those who like a camping cook-off. There are private camp kitchens for campers and glampers alike, fire pits and barbecues, and even a pizza kitchen for decorating dough with Carmarthen Ham and local cheese in the woodfired oven. Guests can help themselves to eggs from the hens and make friends with the sheep, ducks and donkey. cwmtycoed.co.uk

Harry’s Campsites – New Forest

Located within the heart of the New Forest, Harry’s Campsites offer two camping experiences; Harry’s Field provides a small campsite with great facilities, while Harry’s Meadow offers spectacular sunsets and natural swimming spots for the ultimate wild camping experience. Harry’s Field campsite also offers a selection of fully furnished bell tents for a glamping experience, finished with vintage bohemian furniture and complete with everything you need to enjoy your stay, including a fully equipped cooking area and a fire pit. newforestcampsite.com

Read our review of glamping at Harry’s Field, New Forest here

Starry Meadow – Brecon Beacons

Set in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Starry Meadow is a festival-inspired pop-up glamping site featuring boutique bell tents alongside street food, starlit storytelling evenings and acoustic music around the campfire. starrymeadow.co.uk

Shepherd Huts at Beacon Hill Farm – Northumberland

Get lost in a luxe shepherd’s hut in the middle of nowhere for the ultimate glamping experience. Situated between the Northumbrian coastline and the Cheviot Hills, Beacon Hill Farm is surrounded by 50 acres of ancient beech woods, and 300 acres of parkland and grass fields. Shepherd’s Huts Bluegrass and Ryegrass are located in a south-facing wildflower meadow and feature three rooms and a westerly-facing terrace, with heating and hot water provided by a gas boiler. Forget kumbaya and ghost stories, the huts are equipped with Wi-Fi, a Bose Bluetooth speaker and a digital radio plus a Smart TV in the bedroom. You should probably get out and explore at some point though, and when you do, head to nearby Northumberland International Dark Sky Park. Beacon Hill has its own purpose built observatory with a range of telescopes for viewing the magical night skies. premiercottages.co.uk

The Nest Glamping – Norfolk

Perched on the North Norfolk coastline, The Nest features six luxury bell tents, available for full site private hire. Each one fits two people and is furnished with a king size bed, eco-friendly lighting, rustic chairs and handcrafted bedside tables. You can also explore the five-acre outdoor area, which is close to the sea and features a BBQ plus a decking area that’s perfect for sunbathing. In the evenings, retire to the communal snug tent where you can play games and have some drinks with your group. thenestglamping.co.uk

The Samling – Lake District

Reconnect with nature in one of the most beautiful parts of the UK at The Samling, where you can sleep under canvas and eat fine, locally sourced and seasonal produce; this is amongst the most luxurious glamping in the UK. The hotel itself is nestled in 65 acres of meadows and ancient woodlands, overlooking Windermere with expansive Lake District views across this World Heritage Site. The Wilderness experience is new to 2021, with the chance to get closer to the wildlife of the area by staying in one of The Samling’s ‘Prospector Tents’ at the top of the hillside, cocooned next to the woodlands. thesamlinghotel.co.uk

Welsh Glamping – Mid-Wales

Set amongst 185 acres of wild farmland and waterfalls, Welsh Glamping opened in mid-2020, located in the perfect location to explore the valley and villages and for wild swimming in the warmer months. All wood used in the building process belongs to the farm, sourced and milled onsite. Choose from cabins, a cottage or tents. welshglamping.com

The Pop Up Hotel, Woolley Grange – Bath

This year, the iconic Pop Up Hotel is situated near Bath, at the historic Woolley Grange Hotel. Perfect for a unique stay, here eight bespoke suites sit in the grounds, with access to the best bits of a hotel stay (swimming pools, spa, facilities) while still getting to sleep beneath the stars. thepopuphotel.com

Ribblesdale Park – Lancashire

Enjoy beautiful views over the Ribble Valley while glamping at Ribblesdale Park, a Grade-I listed 1000-acre estate located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. The glamping village is set in a six-acre field, featuring 10 widely spaced bell tents, each decked out with a double bed, electric power, a fire pit and an outside decked area. There’s plenty to explore on-site, including a heated outdoor swimming pool and on-site restaurant Hindelinis, which serves up home-cooked food all day. While you’re there, you’re likely to spot peacocks wandering the grounds, with kingfishers, otters and even reindeer to be found in the woodlands, waters and fields of the estate. ribblesdalepark.com

The Little Hide – Wigginton

A great base for exploring the historic city of York, the luxury, adult-only camping pods of The Little Hide offer cosy self-catering accommodation for people who ‘don’t do camping’ to camp. The Little Hide camping pods all contain a zip-link bed with under-bed storage, a sofa, and a heater. thelittlehide.co.uk

The Shepherds Hut – Durham

The Shepherd’s Hut is perched on the unspoilt, rolling countryside in Lower Teesdale on the Durham/Yorkshire border. The picture-perfect spot for a romantic getaway, it is fitted with a two-seater sofa, Hobbit wood burning stove, Neff hob, granite worktops, spacious shower, and king size bed. There are plenty of historic sites, beautiful walks and cycling routes within easy reach if you feel like exploring, but if it’s alone-time you seek, this is the perfect spot for practicing life as the last two shepherds on earth. premiercottages.co.uk

Carrowmena Glamping Site – Limavady

Explore some of the most beautiful spots in Northern Ireland including the Causeway Coast, Sperrin & Binevenagh Mountain Range and Lough Foyle from the Carrowmena Glamping Site at Limavady. Perfect for families, activities include water sports, campfires, archery, and a kids station. carrowmena.co.uk

Plush Tents Glamping – Chichester

Choose from luxurious Mongolian yurts and cosy bell tents in a little forested wonderland in Chichester. If you don’t want to go completely off-grid, the W-Fi will come in handy for Instagram sharing / boasting. There’s a communal campfire and hot tub, plus a scattering of hammocks for day dreaming, and when your stove runs out of gas, order up a fancy breakfast or lunch hamper prepared by the experts at Fork & Field. plushtentsglamping.co.uk

Best Glamping Kit

Still want to go it alone? As long as you pitch your own tent, you’ll keep the traditionalists happy. But bringing your own doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the glamping experience. Just make sure it’s a seriously nice tent, with all the added extras. Here’s our hot list…

Best Luxury Camping Equipment

Boutique Camping The Weekender Tent in Rainbow, £269

Boutique Camping The Weekender Tent in Rainbow

When you think ‘glamping’, it has to be a bell tent, and for the ultimate festival glamping tent, it has to be a rainbow bell tent. This polyester bell tent by the Boutique Camping Company is half the weight of their canvas counterparts, making them ideal to transport, and can be put together by one person.

Rent it: Baylily Bell Tents, from £145

OK, so technically you’re not pitching your own here, but you’re renting it and someone else is doing the hard bit, so everyone’s a winner. Baylily Bell Tents allow you to rent one or more pretty bell tents for your next luxury camping trip, which are available on a ‘tent only’ or fully furnished basis, for when you really just want to arrive and crash (in style). baylilybelltents.co.uk

Sherpa Folding Cart, £99

You’ll need a hand lugging all your glamping kit to the perfect spot. If you only have one pair, make things simpler with this folding cart, which you can load up with your tent, kit and a bottle of bubbles for once the work is done.

Boutique Roll Up Bed Cream Double, from £49

Save yourself from a deflating air bed with this Boutique Camping roll up waterproof camping bed.

Lafuma Pop Up XL, £92

Pitching a tent can really take it out of you, so kick back and relax (preferably with a cocktail in hand) in this cushy canvas pop up chair.

Main Image: Cedars Kabin, Photography: Ben Stevens. cedarvalley.co.uk

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The Best Seaside Campsites In The UK

Amy Wakeham — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 10:50:30 +0000

How does camping near the coast sound for a 2023 adventure? As an island nation, the UK is crammed with picturesque beaches and dramatic coastlines, all waiting to be explored on your next staycation. Here are the best seaside campsites to book this summer.

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The Best Campsites By The Sea

Troytown Farm Campsite – St Agnes, Isles of Scilly

Where is it? Twenty-five miles off the southwestern tip of Cornwall lies the Isles of Scilly – a cluster of tiny picturesque islands, of which five are inhabited. Troytown Farm campsite is perched above the beach on the island of St Agnes, and offers breathtaking views over the surrounding Atlantic Ocean. The on-site farm is the only daily farm on the isles, producing milk, cream, butter and ice cream that you can eat there and then.

What are the facilities? Troytown is camping only (although you can hire an already-assembled bell tent) with toilets, hot showers, washing machine and dryer, and washing up facilities. There’s also an on-site shop selling farm produce and camping gas, plus hire-out mats, chairs and stoves. Kayaks and paddle boards are available to rent on the beach.

Things to do? Island life is low-key and of a slower pace: as well as sunbathing on the golden beaches, rockpooling and swimming in the sea, there’s also boat trips for seal and bird watching and star gazing at night. Watersports are also great here: snorkelling, diving, fishing and kayaking.

Best for? People looking to escape the rat race for a real back-to-nature experience.

BOOK: From £10.25 per night plus tent charges. troytown.co.uk

Sustainable Things To Do in Cornwall

Shortlake Farm – Weymouth, Dorset

Where is it? Only open in the month of August, Shortlake Farm is a family campsite close to Weymouth on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. It’s situated a quick, ten-minute walk from the beach, which is a quiet, shingly cove running out to a rocky headland.

What are the facilities? Shortlake Farm is part of Eweleaze Farm, which is a short walk away and offers a farm shop and a bakery, as well as hot food, ice cream and coffee. There’s also a pizza van, charcoal grill, crepe bar and barn restaurant. On the Shortlake site, there’s compost toilets, hot showers and washing-up facilities.

Things to do? There’s tame goats, pigs, ponies, alpacas and cows on Eweleaze Farm, plus plenty of play areas. For adults who need a break from all that, there’s a spa and massage treatments available. Down on the beach there’s boat trips available along the coast, plus a swimming raft and fossil hunting.

Best for? Families and extended groups with lots of kids in tow.

BOOK: From £6.50 a night, plus vehicle fees. eweleaze.co.uk

Treheli Farm Caravan & Campsite – Porth Neigwl, Wales

Porth Neigwl / Hell’s Mouth

Where is it? Perched on the cliffs overlooking beautiful Porth Neigwl (Hell’s Mouth in English) in north Wales, Treheli Farm campsite is a brilliantly calm and low-key choice. There’s no set pitches; on arrival you simply choose your spot and set up your tent there.

What are the facilities? There’s a toilet and shower block and a washing up facility, as well as bell tents to rent if you don’t fancy putting your own one up.

Things to do? Porth Neigwl is a favourite with surfers and kayakers for its large waves and golden sand at low tide. There’s also some great walks for hikers nearby. You come here for the view, and the days spent on the beach at the foot of your campsite.

Best for? Surfers and other adrenaline seekers who are looking for fun, not frills.

BOOK: From £20 a night. trehelifarm.com

Glenbrittle Campsite – Loch Brittle, Isle of Skye

Where is it? Voted campsite of the year 2019 at the Great Outdoors Magazine Awards, Glenbrittle Campsite is located on the rugged west coast of the picturesque Isle of Skye in Scotland. One of the best best seaside campsites in Scotland, it’s framed by the Cuillin mountains and Loch Brittle beach.

What are the facilities? With 120 tent pitches spread across the land’s natural pockets overlooking the beach and loch, Glenbrittle has an on-site shop and café with speciality coffee from the Cuillin Coffee Co.

Things to do? Walkers and climbers will be in paradise here, with two peaks to conquer. Black Cuillin is the UK’s most challenging mountain range: 11 kilometres in length, over 3,000 feet in places and with 11 munros. The gentler Red Cuillin is popular with hillwalkers, the highest point being Glamaig at 2,543 feet.

Best for? Campers looking for an active holiday.

BOOK: From £11.00 plus other fees. dunvegancastle.com

The Best Beaches in Scotland

Coastal Stay – Pembrokeshire, Wales

Where is it? Set back in the lush green fields above Abereiddy Bay, Coastal Stay really is one of the best seaside campsites in the UK, offering unbeatable views of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in south west Wales.

What are the facilities? There’s only 28 pitches, so things are kept pretty quiet and personal here. There’s also hot showers and toilets, plus a pizza oven, on-site café for breakfast and afternoon tea, a herb garden open for guests to use, and every pitch has its own fire pit.

Things to do? Abereiddy Bay is a small, sheltered, pebbly beach that’s popular with swimmers; there’s also rock pools to explore at low tide. Around the corner there’s the famous Blue Lagoon, a former slate quarry that’s home to the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. It’s also a popular spot for coasteering and kayaking – but be warned, the water is very cold. Nearby, there’s St David’s to visit; the smallest city in Britain, it’s famous for its beautiful medieval cathedral.

Best for? Those looking for a little luxury, without forgetting you’re camping in nature.

BOOK: From £8. coastalstay.co.uk

Ocean Pitch – Croyde, Devon

Where is it? Overlooking one of Devon’s best surfing beaches, Croyde Bay, Ocean Pitch is a mere two-minute walk from the waves. Croyde village, meanwhile, is only a ten-minute stroll away. It’s so close, you can check out the swell (and the competition) from the front door of your tent.

What are the facilities? As well as hot showers, toilets, fridges and freezers, and phone charging points, Ocean Point offers a free wifi point and its own café, Biffen’s Kitchen. For those that come unprepared, you can also hire surfboards, wetsuits, body boards and stand-up paddle boards. And if you fancy a real bed instead of a blow-up, there’s always its luxury pod glamping option.

Things to do? Surfing, obviously. If you’re not already an expert, Ocean Pitch has partnered up with local surf school Surfing Croyde Bay to offer lessons, as well as exciting coasteering excursions. For walkers, the South West Coast Path is only a few steps away.

Best for? Beach bums looking for a cool, comfy place to stay.

BOOK: £15 per person per night plus fees. oceanpitch.co.uk

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2023’s Best Meditation & Wellness Retreats In The UK To Book Now

Olivia Emily — Fri, 19 May 2023 09:00:05 +0000

Overdue some time out, or looking to start the New Year right? Luckily, 2023’s wellness retreats are coming in thick and fast, and you don’t have to travel across the world to enjoy them – there are plenty of staycation opportunities for uninterrupted zen. From luxury farmhouse getaways to walking weekends, these are the best meditation retreats and wellness escapes right here in the UK.

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The UK’s Best Meditation & Wellness Retreats 2023

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Gaia House

When? Throughout the year.

Where? South Devon

What? If you’re looking to reduce the noise in your mind, Gaia House is your best bet. One of the largest meditation centers in Europe, it offers silent meditation retreats in the Buddhist tradition, but all faiths are welcome. Set in the peaceful South Devon countryside, retreats range in length from two to seven nights, with different names such as Pathways to Happiness and The Heart of Wisdom and Kindness. Though guests are asked to refrain from engaging in all forms of verbal and written communication throughout the retreat, you can speak with the teachers when appropriate. During your stay you can enjoy picturesque strolls around the grounds, and vegan/vegetarian meals throughout.

BOOK: Check out the schedule here. gaiahouse.co.uk

Mindful Walking Retreats

When? Ongoing

Where? Sharpham House – Totnes, Devon

What? Located on the banks of the River Dart, Sharpham House’s walking retreats will take you on long, meditative walks around the beautiful Devon countryside. A more active trip, the retreat involves daily 7-8 mile walks, many of which are very hilly, so organisers specify you’ll need good fitness levels. With breathtaking scenery and periods of silence, these walks help develop appreciation and respect for the natural world, and encourage guests to explore their creativity. There are also guided meditations and relaxation sessions throughout the retreat, and you’ll be treated to delicious vegetarian food, all sourced locally and sustainably.

BOOK: From £460 for four nights. sharphamtrust.org

Breathe Bend Believe Yoga Retreat

When? Throughout the year

Where? Hassocks, West Sussex

What? Ranging from mini retreats that can be done between school drop and pick-up to annual weekend retreats, these mini yoga breaks extend the peace that an energetic yoga practice can bring you and help you to carry it through the day and take it away with you. Connect with likeminded people in Briony’s beautiful home and enjoy a bitesize chunk of rest and relaxation. Read our full review of the Breathe, Bend, Believe retreat here.

BOOK: From £69 | bookwhen.com/breathebendbelieve

Men’s Mental Wellness Retreats

When? Dates June and October 2023

Where? Bedruthan, Cornwall

What? Ex-rugby player and plant-based fitness fanatic Anthony Mullally, has partnered with sustainability-minded Cornish hotel Bedruthan to offer new resilience workshop retreats specifically focussing on men’s mental wellness. Employing cold and heat exposure, the body will be put into a stressful state in order to then encourage adaptability and calm as a response to anxiety.

BOOK: Two nights arriving Friday 16th June or two nights arriving Saturday 28th October. Call reservations on 01637 860 860 to book. bedruthan.com

Rewilding at English Historic Estate Retreat

When? 24–28 August 2023

Where? Broughton Hall – Skipton, North Yorkshire

What? If you’re looking for a serene retreat framed by moorlands and meadows, head to Broughton Hall in Skipton, North Yorkshire. Back by popular demand after a successful run in both 2021 and 2022, Balance Holidays’ ‘Rewilding at English Historic Estate Retreat‘ encourages guests to let go of their old self, teaching new skills to promote a wild, connected and empowered version of themselves. Led by lifestyle coach Tony Riddle – also known as The Natural Lifestylist – the retreat includes a range of movement activities (wild swimming, barefoot woodlands walks and runs, forest bathing and tree climbing) as well as restorative, lesson-based activities (mobility, movement and flow activities, breathwork and sound healing).

BOOK: balanceholidays.com

Image (c) Elliot White

Cornish Gems’ Yoga & Wellbeing Retreat

When? 8–10 September 2023

Where? Rosilian Hall – Flushing, Cornwall

Holiday home provider Cornish Gems have teamed up with wellbeing practitioner Alicia Ray on a brand-new luxury yoga and wellbeing retreat on the Cornish coast. The exclusive three-day retreat – taking place in September – will be hosted at Rosilian Hall, a luxury waterfront residence in Flushing, right on the banks of the river Fal. Using an engaging mix of restorative wellbeing practises, guests will receive guided tuition to enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor yoga, sea swimming, mindfulness, meditation, sound baths and breathing workshops – all accompanied by a delicious and nourishing menu prepared by a private chef using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.

BOOK: cornishgems.com

The Cold Water Therapy Programme

When? Ongoing

Where? Three Mile Beach, Cornwall

What? Did you know that the NHS now prescribes surfing to help improve confidence, resilience and self-esteem? Off to Cornwall we go. Launching this November, Three Mile Beach’s new three-night Cold Water Therapy Programme will reinvigorate and restore through surfing lessons, coasteering and Wim Hof Method workshops with Soul Sweats, championing the power of water and breathwork alongside hot and cold therapy, yoga, sound healing and meditation. Set among golden sands backed by dunes, it’s an idyllic setting for a chilly swim.

BOOK: From £403 per person, based on six people sharing a three-bedroom beach house and includes three nights’ accommodation, including a full day workshop with Soul Sweats, a two-hour private surf lesson and a three-hour guided coasteering session. Available for individuals and private groups. threemilebeach.co.uk

Wild Calm Retreat at Cabilla

When? Ongoing

Where? Cabilla Cornwall

What? If you are looking to slow down and restore your vitality amid ancient and undisturbed nature, this retreat is for you. The retreat is designed to ensure that visitors have a ‘unique experience of energetic restoration, introducing an awareness to the chakras with daily activities including heart led yoga, reflective meditation, walks in the temperate rainforest, bathing in woodland pools, stargazing and experiencing a sound bath’. Held in The Barns at Cabilla Cornwall, the retreat includes three vegetarian meals a day, with hot drinks and refreshments also provided.

BOOK: cabillacornwall.com

Soul Revival

When? Ongoing

Where? The Mandrake, London

What? Having launched the world’s first spiritual wellness concierge last year, this year The Mandrake launches the Soul Revival package to guide guests from lockdown into the light. From in-room bespoke energy healings to sound baths and cacao ceremonies, the hotel is hosting the best practitioners in their fields such as Eddy Elsey (Shaman), Urmi Sound (sound healers), Andréa Araré (shaman), Maria Lodetoft (Sound healer).

BOOK: themandrake.com

Somercecil Retreats at Badminton Estate

When? Ongoing

Where? Badminton Estate, Cotswolds

What? Having grown up in the Cotswolds and Cornwall retrospectively, Bella Somerset and Gaby Cecil discovered from a young age the importance of spending time in nature. This inspired them to launch Somercecil, a retreat series at Badminton Estate – where Bella was lucky enough to grow up. The retreats are themed around three pillars: movement, nature and connection: think morning runs, yoga, walks and e-bike adventures, alongside activities like foraging and massages. On the food side, you can expect seasonal vegetarian dishes made using homegrown produce straight from the pesticide-free garden veg farm. You’ll be spending time in the beautiful Dower House, a stone’s throw away from Badminton Deer Park.

BOOK: Private retreats are also available. somercecil.com

Horwood House X Aromatherapy Associates

When? Ongoing

Where? Horwood House Hotel – Milton Keynes

What? Mental Health UK reports that one in five Brits don’t get enough sleep, so Horwood House is partnering with Aromatherapy Experts to launch their new ‘Deep Relax Day and Stay package’. With full access to the spa, a delicious two-course lunch, and a 60-minute Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Body Treatment, this package is ideal for wellness warriors looking for a great night’s sleep.

BOOK: From £237.50 per person. horwoodhouse.co.uk

Rudding Park in Harrogate

When? Ongoing

Where? Rudding Park Hotel – Harrogate, North Yorkshire

What? Pick your meditation hot spot from the UK’s very first Rooftop Spa Garden or Rudding Park’s designated Mind and Sense Zones. The spa aims to re-capture Harrogate’s spa town heritage by drawing natural waters from the grounds of Rudding Park. The Roof Top Spa and Garden has also been designed (by horticulturalist Matthew Wilson) to capture and reflect the beauty of its natural surroundings. The new Woodland Glade – a secluded area in the gardens – allows guests to experience treatments whilst connecting with nature, inspired by the Japanese tradition of forest bathing. Sounds like the perfect spot for some soul-searching (followed by steam room-lounging), to us.

BOOK: ruddingpark.co.uk

Glass House Retreat

When? Ongoing

Where? Essex

What? After years of visiting retreats, passionate advocate for healthy living Joy Jarvis noticed many were pushed for space, and decided it was time to create something new. Enter Glass House Retreat, a purpose-built spa, detox and weight-loss centre set in the heart of the luscious Essex countryside. Packages range from two to seven days long, all offering spa and gym access, plant-based cuisine and various different wellness treatments. A typical day here involves a morning walk, two fitness classes and a raw food lunch, followed by a cookery demonstration from Head Chef Miguel Gouveia. Afternoons, meanwhile, are spent exploring the retreat’s spa facilities – which include a salt block sauna, cryotherapy chamber and heated pool – and enjoying relaxing treatments. Less than an hour’s drive from London, it’s perfectly located for city dwellers looking to escape from the city and invest in a little R&R.

BOOK: glasshouseretreat.co.uk

Featured Image (c) Min An via Pexels.

What Is The Point Of A One Day Yoga Retreat?

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Eco Staycations: 40 Luxurious Places To Stay In 2023

CTH Editors — Mon, 15 May 2023 10:45:17 +0000

Dreaming of your next getaway (who isn’t?) and intrigued by the UK‘s array of staycations? Yes, a staycation is inherently more eco-friendly than a destination holiday, since your carbon footprint will be lower for a flight-free break. But going green is about more than the journey, and the choices we make throughout the holiday – from the mode of transport, to the accommodation, to how we spend our money when we get there – are all sustainability considerations. If you’re looking for the ultimate eco staycations without the hassle of eco-planning, why not pick a hotel or retreat that is doing the ecotourism heavy lifting for you, and taking steps to make your stay as easy on the planet as it is on you? Take a trip to one of these lovely eco hotels, from a holiday cottage on the Cornish Coast to a luxury golf and spa hotel in the idyllic Dedham Vale, brought to you in partnership with Polestar.

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40 Of The Best Luxury Eco Staycations In The UK For 2023

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Moonstone, Cotswolds

Venture to the Cotswolds to experience Moonstone, a contemporary architectural gem that blends seamlessly into its pastoral surroundings, and powered entirely with state of the art eco-technology. Amble across the gardens and down toward the lake: with six bedrooms and six bathrooms set across 16,000 square feet, Moonstone is the ideal destination to gather your family and friends for a luxurious eco-retreat, complete with your very own private spa. With a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam-room, a gym/games room, a bar, an outdoor terrace with BBQ and pizza oven, a cinema room and even a baby grand piano, there’s truly something for everyone.

BOOK IT: classic.co.uk

Glebe House, Devon

Having grown up with his parents running the family home, Glebe House, as a B&B, Hugo Guest is no stranger to hospitality. However, it wasn’t until he experienced agriturismo in Italy that he and his wife Olive were inspired to try it themselves. A few years later, and the couple have transformed the 15-acre property, set in the idyllic rolling hills of east Devon, into a guesthouse with five bedrooms, a smallholding and a restaurant. Local food and a love of the surrounding environment is at the heart of it all, with interiors created by Studio Alexandra, which specialises in sustainably conscious design. The restaurant is helmed by Hugo himself, who retrained as a chef and has worked at London restaurants such as The Marksman and Sorella. Any ingredients not supplied by the farm – seasonal vegetables and rare breed meat – is sourced from neighbouring farms or foraged from the surrounding landscape.

BOOK IT: glebehousedevon.co.uk

Old Lands, Monmouthshire

Old Lands’ poetic natural beauty and acres of rambling estate in beautiful Monmouthshire has inspired a long line of ecologists and naturalists (that’s an expert in natural history, not a lover of stripping off on beaches – just to clarify).

Not only has it long strived for self-sufficiency (water has been heated with solar power and a walled garden has supplied fruit and vegetables since the Seventies) but biodiversity is a recent focus, and some meadows on the estate have been newly dedicated to rewilding. And if you’re desperate for a lie in after all the home schooling, then the on-site forest school is perfect to keep little ones muddy and entertained with lessons on woodlands and nature. The on-site honesty shop, which supplies local eggs, Old Lands honey and organic vegetables is also a must-visit.

BOOK IT: old-lands.co.uk

Wilderness Reserve, Suffolk

Simplicity, old-world wellness and a nostalgia for pastoral England lie at the heart of Wilderness Reserve, a 5,000-acre estate in Suffolk. The project began nearly 20 years ago, spearheaded by landscape architect Kim Wilkie. And although it was more of a landscaping than a rewilding venture, the restoration has worked wonders for attracting new or returning wildlife to the area. There are now over 130 different bird species in residence, plus over 200 types of plants. Guests can choose between a number of different accommodation options, from cosy cottages to the recently launched Chapel Barn, complete with 17 double bedrooms, a gym, pool, hot tub and sauna. Yet despite these modern luxuries, everything at Wilderness Reserve exists to work in harmony with its stunning natural surroundings. So far one million trees have been planted there, a number which continues to grow.

BOOK IT: wildernessreserve.com

GETTING THERE WITH POLESTAR: Distance from Marble Arch is 115 miles. For scenery avoid the A12 and go via Bury St Edmunds on the A134. If you need to charge, Gridserve in Braintree is a great stop off point. Click here to find your nearest Polestar Space.

Breac House, County Donegal

Perched on a dramatic headland overlooking the Atlantic, this eco-house casts an otherworldly spell. At once strikingly modern yet sensitive to its surroundings, Breac.House was designed by award-winning architects and built by a team of local tradesmen. The dark, clean-lines of the exterior make way for buckets of light inside; it’s all natural wood, native materials, and locally crafted furniture, fabrics and products from locally quarried stone to hand-woven tweed. There’s a strong sense of place, which expands with a venture across the dramatic landscape – cliffs to forests, beaches and dunes, lakes to heather and gorse, and the iconic Muckish and Errigal mountains, all immersed in refreshing Atlantic Ocean air. Or enjoy it from your bedroom terrace with its panoramic views, wrapped in a cosy blanket. Activities are arranged based on your desires, from horseback treks to soaking up art at a local gallery to dousing yourself in bracing Atlantic waters with a surfing expedition. Then warm back up in the wood-fired sauna, off-grid (using only stone, wood and water) and inspired by ancient Irish ‘sweat houses’.

BOOK IT: breac.house

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, Malmesbury

Romantic, Honey-stoned Whatley Manor is a classic English beauty. Peek behind its 18th-century walls, however, and you’ll find it has a decidedly modern attitude. The hotel has committed to using only renewable energy and foodies will be seduced by locally and ethically sourced ingredients (some of them from Whatley’s very own beehives and orchard) served in either Grey’s Brasserie or the Dining Room, the latter of which recently scooped one of Michelin’s brand new Green Star awards. All food waste is cleverly converted to methane, which provides ten per cent of the hotel’s energy.

BOOK IT: whatleymanor.com

The Zetter, London

With contemporary interiors and trendy offbeat accents, The Zetter Hotel in Clerkenwell is the perfect ode to east London’s community of creatives. It also has impressive eco credentials, having been renovated with sustainably sourced and environmentally sensitive building materials, making it an ideal eco staycation. It’s also energy efficient, with heating and cooling provided by an energy loop system and boreholes. Glass and paper is rigorously recycled and there’s an in-house Green Team to uphold eco standards. You can also opt to forgo housekeeping for a free cocktail (thus saving power, water, and harmful cleaning chemicals). We’ll raise a martini to that.

BOOK IT: thezetter.com

Treehouse, London

Our favourite ‘green’ aspect of Treehouse in Marylebone has to be the biophilic rooftop bar, with spectacular panoramic views across London – it’s almost impossible to peel yourself away. But its eco commitment doesn’t stop at the Instagrammable aesthetics. As the younger, fun-loving sibling of sustainably focussed American company 1 Hotels, Treehouse has carried many of the brand’s eco principles across the pond, from conscious construction using recycled materials, to staff training in waste management and reducing single- use plastic. Seasonal British produce inspires menus at 15th floor Casa Madera restaurant and The Nest rooftop bar.

BOOK IT: treehousehotels.com

Newhall Mains, Inverness-shire

Slow living meets sustainable chic at 18th-century Newhall Mains farmhouse, which has been restored from ruins by local craftsmen using traditional stone, lime render, lead and slate. The property comprises five cottages and four double suites, which overlook either lavender courtyards or peacefully grazing sheep. All of them have scrumptious joy-inspiring interiors by Kelling Designs and cosy touches like rugs spun with wool from the estate’s own flock of Jacob sheep. Throw in a firepit to congregate around, and food deliveries using local Scottish produce, and you have one of the most luxurious eco-stays around.

BOOK IT: newhall-mains.com

The Torridon, Scotland

Situated in the remote Scottish Highlands is the five-star hotel The Torridon, the perfect setting for an eco staycation. With beautiful views overlooking the magnificent sea loch, the resort offers something for everyone. Taste the natural larder of Wester Ross, where head chef Paul Green uses locally sourced fresh produce to create a tantalising menu, or explore the munros that surround the hotel. Thrill-seekers can take part in mountain biking, gorge scrambling and sea kayaking. The hotel’s environmental commitments include sourcing its own water from a borehole on the estate and gifting native wildflower seeds to guests.

BOOK IT: thetorridon.com

Thyme, The Cotswolds

This tranquil hotel, which opened in 2014, is really ‘a village within a village’, with restaurants, bars, a spa, a farm and a cookery school. Indulge in delicious seasonal food, unwind with a treatment at Meadow Spa or take a wander around the gardens and farm with its ecosystem of wildflowers, otters, kingfishers, egrets and water voles. Whether it’s extracting pure spring water via an underground river source, using heat pumps and woodchip boilers, restoring wild spaces and habitats through afforestation and replanting or choosing suppliers with like-minded ethics, Thyme is committed to eco-friendly practices, restoration and preservation.

BOOK IT: thyme.co.uk

Saorsa 1875, Scotland

Jack McLaren-Stewart and his mother Sandra opened Saorsa 1875 in Scotland, the UK’s first 100 per cent vegan hotel. Housed in a restored 19th century baronial house, the hotel is an idyllic spot surrounded by two acres of natural woodlands, overlooking the pretty town of Pitlochry and close to Loch Ness. Everything here is entirely free from animal products, from the upcycled furniture to the toiletries to the energy. And of course, the food: guests can expect an array of vegan delights, with an ever-evolving menu of organic, local and foraged produce. Sandra’s interior design training can be seen in the 11 guest bedrooms, which feature statement wallpaper and decadent throws expected in an artsy boutique hotel – the only difference here is the wools, silks and leather have been replaced with linen, cotton, velvet and manmade fibres. If that wasn’t enough to entice you, Saorsa 1875 is also dog-friendly, so you can enjoy its charms with your pooch in tow.

BOOK IT: saorsahotel.com

GETTING THERE WITH POLESTAR: Distance from Marble Arch is 450 miles. Lots of charging points en route and in particular the Gridserve charging station at Pontefract for a half-way stop. Click here to find your nearest Polestar Space.

Coombeshead Farm, Cornwall

Set across 66 acres of Cornish countryside, Coombeshead is a self-sufficient entity, complete with a beautiful farm, guesthouse and restaurant, headed up by chefs Tom Adams and April Bloomfield. There’s also a wine cellar featuring vintages from Tom’s brother’s micro-vineyard in the South of France, a beehive and a bakery run by Ben Glazer. Food is served in the Feasting Barn, which offers an ever-changing, family-style menu dependent on what’s ready from the farm, smokehouse and pickling rooms. Nine bedrooms in the Farmhouse and Grain Store are decked out with eclectic furnishings, mostly pre-loved pieces sourced locally or at auction.

BOOK IT: coombesheadfarm.co.uk

The Fish, Cotswolds

Located on the 400-acre Farncombe Estate near Broadway in the Cotswolds, The Fish is part boutique hotel, part adventure hideout. When it comes to eco-friendly travel, The Fish’s green initiatives include a promise of 0 percent of waste to landfill and all food waste going directly to neighbouring Northwick Park’s anerobic digester. Making for an ideal eco staycation, The Fish is powered by completely green energy, they rear their own pork on the estate and the estate plants trees to replace every single tree used through printing through their tree planting programme. This year they are set to open five new Hideaway Huts in their grounds, adding to the collection of 10 Shepherd’s Huts and 3 Treehouses already on the property. These Hideaway Huts will feature double bedrooms, roll top baths, wood burners and a private hot tub.

BOOK IT: thefishhotel.co.uk

GETTING THERE WITH POLESTAR: Distance from Marble Arch is 88 miles. No need to charge en route but plenty of charging options if needed. Click here to find your nearest Polestar Space.

The Samling, Lake District

You can reconnect with nature in one of the most beautiful parts of the UK at The Samling, where you can sleep under canvas and eat fine, locally sourced and seasonal produce. The hotel is nestled in 65 acres of meadows and ancient woodlands, overlooking Windermere with expansive Lake District views across this World Heritage Site. The Wilderness experience is new to 2021, with the chance to get closer to the wildlife of the area by staying in one of The Samling’s ‘Prospector Tents’ at the top of the hillside, cocooned next to the woodlands. Contemplate your place in the world as you wake to the sound of birdsong and tuck into some sustainable fare (served by your personal butler).

BOOK IT: thesamlinghotel.co.uk

Watergate Lodge, Watergate Bay, Cornwall

This Beach Retreats brand-new eco-friendly beach house will be opening for stays from summer 2021, with accommodation for up to 12 guests in five bedrooms. Green credentials include solar panels, air-source heating, and a mechanical ventilation system. Those with an eye for style will appreciate the designer interiors and all guests will fall in love with the large roof terrace boasting views across the valley and featuring a sunken firepit for cosy nights with friends or family. And best of all? It’s just 400 metres from the beach.

BOOK IT: beachretreats.co.uk

Image (c) Karl Mackie

Stay One Degree Eco Home, Tiverton, Devon

Surrounded by beautiful Devon countryside, this open plan living eco home is a real one-of-a-king eco stay, sleeping up to 11 guests. With a cosy snug and open fireplace, it’s perfect for a warm reunion with friends once we’re allowed. Eco credentials include the exterior, featuring repurposed wood from the property’s natural surroundings and water coming from the natural springs in the field. The heating comes from geothermal heat exchange systems using pond mats in the pond, and the electricity is from the solar panels behind the house. Sleep soundly in this countryside haven safe in the knowledge that any power you’re using is staying off-grid, just like you.

BOOK IT: stayonedegree.com

Daylesford, Cotswolds

Motivated by a desire to feed her children better, in the 1980s Lady Carole Bamford set out to turn her family’s farmland into a sustainable business. Forty years later Daylesford stands as one of the most eco-friendly farms in the UK, with branches of its cafés, restaurants and shops dotted across the country. The Gloucestershire farm offers overnight stays too, with six cosy converted stone cottages available to book alongside Bamford spa and an artisan cookery school. The Trough restaurant has just been awarded a 2021 Michelin Green Star, a new accolade for eateries that take exceptional steps towards sustainable business.

BOOK IT: daylesford.com

Ham Yard Hotel, London

Vibrant colour, mismatched patterns, quirky décor – this could only be the work of one designer: Kit Kemp, who owns the Firmdale Hotels group alongside her husband Tim. Ham Yard is an urban village, complete with not only 91 bedrooms but also speciality stores, a rooftop bar, a spa, bowling alley and cinema. And the hotel’s sustainability measures are also worth shouting about. It was awarded BREEAM Excellent rating, a methodology used to assess the environmental performance of buildings, thanks to its use of CHP units and solar panels. It also has its own living green roof, plus a terrace with beehives and a vegetable garden.

BOOK IT: firmdalehotels.com

The Scarlet, Cornwall

The Scarlet has won numerous sustainability awards since opening in 2009, meaning it is a solid touchstone when looking for eco staycations. When the hotel was built, existing stone walls on the site were carefully deconstructed to allow over 100 small reptiles to be rehoused. This set the tone for the hotel’s eco-minded future. Its sustainability credits can be seen in details big and small: all electricity comes from renewable sources and guests are encouraged to take home the locally handmade organic soap. Nose-to-tail dining ensures very little wastage in the restaurant – an idyllic spot overlooking the bay. Even the flip-flops for guests in the spa are made from recycled vehicle tyres.

BOOK IT: scarlethotel.co.uk

GETTING THERE WITH POLESTAR: Distance from Marble Arch is 278 miles. Multiple fast charging en route including Gridserve at Bridgewater and fast charging on the M4 around Bristol. Click here to find your nearest Polestar Space.

The Grove, Hertfordshire

Located in Hertfordshire (approx. 18 miles from London), The Grove is a five-star luxury hotel and 300-acre estate comprising a world-renowned 18-hole golf course, award-winning spa, and an abundance of culinary delights. The hotel has been awarded a Green Apple Environment Award for its continued dedication to protecting the environment, such as the replacement of single-use plastics with eco-friendly alternatives, the use of solar panels, and partnership with the Clean the World programme which supplies clean hotel amenities to less-fortunate places around the globe. The hotel has also achieved an impressive 36 per cent reduction in CO2 generated over the past 10 years. During your stay, be sure to visit ‘Jemima’s Kitchen Garden’, where fresh vegetables, fruit, herbs – and even honey – are grown on site. Plus, the garden’s permaculture philosophy has created a home for plenty of wildlife.

BOOK IT: thegrove.co.uk

GETTING THERE WITH POLESTAR: Distance from Marble Arch is 21 miles. No need to charge en route but plenty of charging options if needed and EV charging at hotel. Click here to find your nearest Polestar Space.

Swallowtail Hill, Sussex

If intrigued by agritourism, a stay at Swallowtail Hill can’t go amiss. The 40-acre farm located in the Sussex countryside provides all the necessary components for a unique ‘glamping’ getaway – rustic accommodation, woodfired hot tubs, a charming farm shop, hill top tent and more – but with sustainability firmly rooted at the business’s core. The environment is of vital importance to owners Sarah and Christopher, in which 31 acres of the estate are included within the Higher Level Environmental Stewardship Scheme. From flower meadows to ponds and woodland, the farm is a haven for wildlife, and a joy to explore. Furthermore, Swallowtail states that it is carbon positive. The farm sources renewable energy from supplier Good Energy and its 14-panel solar PV installation (which sends roughly 3,500 KWh to the grid every year). The business has gone to great lengths to ensure sustainability – even eco-friendly composting toilets have been employed.

BOOK IT: swallowtailhill.com

Atlantic View Lodges, Widemouth Bay, Bude

Situated on the Cornish coastline, these three-bedroom luxury eco lodges – featuring spacious, contemporary interiors which incorporate environmental technology into their design – offer magnificent views overlooking Widemouth Bay. With their rustic kebony wood exterior – an innovative sustainable and durable material – and notable grass roofs, the Atlantic View Lodges have been designed with careful consideration of the surrounding environment. All of the holiday cottages are energy efficient, designed with solar thermal panels and eco-friendly air source heat pumps. Meanwhile, the green roof system not only blends aesthetically into the greenery beyond, but provides insulation and aims to minimise any effects on the surrounding natural environment. The ideal seaside escape, these secluded lodges promise peaceful relaxation, with the reposeful coastline just a stone’s throw away. You might also be pleased to know that furry friends are welcome too.

BOOK IT: beachretreats.co.uk

Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa, Colchester

Situated within the idyllic countryside of the Dedham Vale, Stoke by Nayland Hotel is a luxury retreat with scope for golfing, dining, and relaxing in rural splendour. Besides its desirable location, what sets this inviting, family-owned hotel apart from the rest is its dedication to providing eco-conscious hospitality. The hotel business – together with its sister companies – has invested over £5 million towards the production of renewable energy sources, whilst the owners have also put various systems in place to maintain and preserve the building’s surrounding Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The team has planted over 60,000 trees, composts all grass cuttings, and safeguards the surrounding hedgerow on behalf of any nesting or inhabiting wildlife. Unsurprisingly, the hotel and overarching business has won numerous awards for its sustainability efforts, including a Sustainable Tourism award and Best Green Farming Enterprise. If you’re looking for a luxury hideaway, the hotel also offers a choice of four sumptuous, self-sufficient and solar powered lodges.

BOOK IT: stokebynayland.com

Tom’s Eco Lodges, Isle of Wight

Hop over to the Isle of Wight on a 40-minute ferry with Wightlink and enjoy an island eco staycation at Tom’s Eco Lodge, with sustainable accommodation options including safari tents, wood cabins, modulogs and eco pods, all nestled in the grounds of Tapnell Farm. New for 2021 are the luxury Geodesic Domes with en-suite facilities in their own Dome Meadow with a BBQ and firepit from which to enjoy sea views and sunset. Two of the Domes have wood burning tubs; we’ll be first in line for one of those. From taking water from the bore hole to supply the farm and accommodation, to producing electricity from solar panels and heating from a biomass boiler, and planting more than 30 acres of new woodland and hedgerows to support local conservation and rewilding, the farm has sustainable practices throughout.

BOOK IT: tapnellfarm.com

Rose in Vale Country House Hotel, St Agnes

Cornwall’s Rose in Vale ticks all the boxes when it comes to a sumptuous country stay. Characterful, historic building? Check (Grade II listed, in fact). Picturesque surroundings? Check. Dog friendly? Check. The family-owned, adults-only country hotel is a hidden gem nestled within the charming village of Mithian, providing guests with a serene place to relax and enjoy the Cornish coast, including vibrant seaside resort Perranporth, located just a short drive away. Make the most of dining at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, which serves up dishes created with either homegrown or locally sourced ingredients. Delight in a choice of cosy and romantic suites, a solar-heated outdoor pool and hot tub (open throughout the summer) and an array of scenic walking routes encompassing the hotel. Ensuring its services are as eco conscious as possible, the hotel uses environmentally friendly biomass boilers for its hot water and heating, and also supports the work of sustainable local fisherman.

BOOK IT: roseinvalehotel.co.uk

The Montagu Arms, Beaulieu

An inviting ivy-clad country hotel situated within the historic and picturesque village of Beaulieu, The Montagu Arms – part of The Green Tourism Business Scheme, which champions sustainable travel businesses – provides a charming countryside escape at the heart of the New Forest. Indulge in delicious seasonal, coast and country-inspired dishes at the hotel’s award-winning Terrace restaurant, headed up by Michelin-trained chef Matthew Whitfield (a former chef at New York’s three-Michelin-Star Eleven Madison Park), where ingredients are either homegrown or sourced directly from The New Forest and nearby counties. What’s more, the hotel has its very own flock of rescue hens providing fresh eggs, whilst recipes have been tailored to minimise food waste as much as possible. Where (albeit delicious) food isn’t concerned, delight in exploring the spectacular New Forest countryside. The hotel donates £1 from every stay to The New Forest Trust’s ‘Love the Forest’ campaign which raises funds for the forest’s conservation.

BOOK IT: montaguarmshotel.co.uk

The Treehouses at Lanrick, Perthshire

Escape to the idyllic woodlands with the Treehouses at Lanrick, newly opened in late October 2020. With five sustainable treehouses located in dense woodland on the banks of the River Teith, guests can say goodbye to Wi-Fi and hello to the beautiful Scottish wilderness. The tranquil retreat, designed by husband and wife team, Simon and Louisa Dickson offers picturesque walks, biking, picnics and fishing. The treehouses themselves are built from timber from the estate to reduce carbon footprint and are powered by air source heat pumps for heating and hot water. The beautiful interiors include handcrafted and upcycled furniture with a tree top terrace, BBQ, gorgeous linens and exterior copper baths. With Doune Castle, Stirling Castle, Blair Drummond Safari Park and Deanston Distillery all within ten miles distance, the Treehouses at Lanrick is the ideal trip away.

BOOK IT: lanricktreehouses.co.uk

Fowey Hall Hotel, Cornwall

Family-friendly luxury with a sustainable twist. Fowey Hall Hotel is perched high on the hill overlooking the picturesque fishing village of Fowey, with sweeping views over the estuary to Polruan. It’s a beautiful part of the world – and one which the hotel is trying to protect with its sustainability and social responsibility initiatives.

The hotel herb garden supplies the kitchen with fresh ingredients, while local fishermen bring in the catch of the day and seafood, and nearby farms supply meat. The furniture in the hotel’s contemporary bedrooms is made from sustainably managed or British-grown wood, and its Little Shop, curated by former Vogue contributing editor Fiona Golfar, stocks wares by local makers for guests to browse. From 30 May the hotel is partnering with Farms to Feed Us on a bi-weekly Sunday market, which will feature producers and artists who share the hotel’s vision for sustainable and local produce.

BOOK IT: foweyhallhotel.co.uk

Fritton Lake, Norfolk

Deep in the heart of a pioneering, 1,000-acre rewilding project is Fritton Lake, a private holiday club that puts nature first. Here, you can stay in a choice of stylish clubrooms or cottages, or even own a woodland or lakeside cabin. And there’s plenty of activities on offer: wild swimming in the lake, trail running, yoga and nature safaris, to name a few. Plus, there’s the invigorating Norfolk coast to explore right on the doorstep.

It’s all part of WildEast, an East Anglian initiative that aims to return 20 per cent of the region’s land to nature. Somerleyton Estate, which Fritton Lake is part of, is undergoing an ambitious rewilding programme, with a switch to regenerative agriculture on the farmland. Guests are encouraged to get involved and learn more about the initiative, with rewilding tours on offer, as well as foraging trips with local experts.

BOOK IT: frittonlake.co.uk

Inhabit Hotel, London

A commitment to wellness, sustainability and community makes this stylish new London ‘mindfulness hotel’ stand out from the crowd. It recently achieved Green Key certification, the tourism industry’s leading award for environmental responsibility, and its Scandi-chic rooms feature furnishings and products from ethical names such as Aerende and REN. The hotel also hosts Yeotown, the plant-centric restaurant that offers California-inspired healthy and wholesome food.

Inhabit’s focus on sustainability is just one element of its overarching ethos of wellness and wellbeing, which the hotel encourages through a packed programme of daily yoga and Pilates classes, guided nature walks, mindfulness sessions and morning meditation classes.

BOOK IT: inhabithotels.com

The Pierhouse Hotel, Scotland

Perched on the edge of Loch Linnhe on the west coast of Scotland, The Pierhouse Hotel’s loyal guests come back for the food, the views and the nature-first approach. It’s a recent addition to renowned hotelier Gordon Campbell Gray’s Wee Hotel Company, which he started to champion the small, the sustainable and the local in his home country of Scotland.

The hotel, a gold award holder of the Green Tourism scheme, has an ethos of reduse, reuse and recycle, with energy usage minimised, eco-friendly cleaning products used and toiletries sourced from the Highland Soap Company in an effort to cut down on single use plastic. Many of the ingredients in The Pierhouse’s popular seafood restaurant come from within a 50-mile radius of the hotel: oysters, scallops and lobsters from nearby lochs; wild hill venison from West Highland estates and cheeses are Kintyre, Isle of Mull and Ayrshire.

BOOK IT: pierhousehotel.co.uk

Chewton Glen, Hampshire

Set over 130 acres of woodland, gardens and parkland on the edge of the New Forest and the Solent, it’s no wonder nature is at the heart of Chewton Glen. Leading the way are the hotel’s eco-treehouses, which are built along the tree line, and feature harvested rainwater, air-source heat pumps, solar panels, and low-energy lighting.

Many of the fruit, vegetables, herbs and edible flowers used in the hotel’s restaurant and cookery school are harvested from the hotel’s walled garden and orchard. And round the estate, years of tree planting and creating wildlife habitats have led to a boom in biodiversity; building the local populations of owls and hedgehogs is a current focus. There’s also more than 50 working beehives dotted around the estate, which help pollinate plants and vegetables grown on-site, and keep nature thriving.

BOOK IT: chewtonglen.com

Bainland Country Park, Lincolnshire

In the heart of leafy Lincolnshire is Bainland Country Park, which is currently undergoing a substantial renovation programme with a strong focus on sustainability. Leading this is a purposeful reforesting, replanting and rewilding project by Chelsea Flower Show gold-medal winning landscape designer Jody Lidgard. The idea is to plant 1500 trees within the park, as well as shrubs, ground covering plants and wildflowers.

Bainland offers a variety of options for all tastes and holidays, from family-friendly glamping to lodges that sleep up to 16 people. While a lot of cabins at Bainland are already clad with reclaimed timber, more environmentally friendly options are being introduced, too, like the new Blue Forest Treehouses that will open this summer. Future plans for the park also include the installation of solar panels, and the building of six more wild swimming lakes.

BOOK IT: bainland.co.uk

Heckfield Place, Hampshire

Nature lies at the beating heart of this gorgeous Georgian hotel in the heart of Hampshire. Years in the conception, weaving the strands of a grand English house, its farm and the local community together to create something different from the norm, it has resulted in an ethos of luxurious sustainability. This radiates everywhere from the plastic-free rooms to the dining (headed up by Skye Gyngell), where the seasonal produce is grown on its own biodynamic and organic farm (with the rest locally sourced); from the biomass energy centre to the LED lighting to the use of their own bore hole. They are also cloning their specimen trees (some over 150 years old) to ensure succession planting of varieties including Giant Redwoods, Douglas Fir and Japanese Cedar. A bold and ambitious project, a delight to discover and a treat to stay at.

BOOK IT: heckfieldplace.com

GETTING THERE WITH POLESTAR: Distance from Marble Arch is 46 miles. No need to charge en route but plenty of charging options if needed, plus EV charging at hotel. Click here to find your nearest Polestar Space.

Cynefin Retreats, Herefordshire

Home to the annual literary festival, in quieter times too Hay on Wye is an absolutely charming market town on the Welsh Borders, stuffed to the brim with book shops, antique shops and great places to eat and drink (check out The Old Electric Shop for arts and curiosities, plus great coffee).

Cynefin, just three miles away, whisks you away from civilisation to a Dark Sky Reserve in the Wye Valley where you can sleep in an eco-pod for two (friendly dogs are welcome), complete with your own fire pit, hot tub and those expansive, star-strewn skies. Or bring the whole family along and hunker down in one of the new two-bedroom lodges. Outdoor activities abound: there’s everything from hiking (climb the Brecon Beacons’ highest peak Pen y Fan), kayaking on the River Wye, riding and hiking. Bliss.

BOOK IT: cynefinretreats.com

Fforest Farm, Wales

From the blankets woven at the mill on the banks of the nearby river Teifi to the vegetables grown onsite and used in all meals, Fforest is 200 acres of outdoor eco heaven. You can even wend your through woods, reed banks and the Teifi estuary all the way into Cardigan on the West Wales coast for a day exploring the beaches.

There’s a broad range of accommodation, from a Georgian farmhouse, sleeping 14, to a ‘dome’, sleeping two, via garden shacs, sleeping six. All come beautifully appointed with everything you need, including an onsite pub – Y Bythwn – in the farm’s oldest building. There’s no need for a spa when a dip in the sea or a bathe in the river is free – but you can warm up afterwards in the cedar barrel sauna. Local staff are full of knowledge and passion, and will help you make the most of your time in this special place.

BOOK IT: coldatnight.co.uk

Norwegian Wood, mid Wales

Get off-grid and back to nature at this adults-only eco retreat deep in the mid Wales countryside. Gaze at starry skies from your king-size bed through the skylight in your glamping dome; keep toasty with a wood-burning stove, read by electricity generated from the on-site wind turbine and, most of all, get your walking boots on. Or even better, take a mountain bike and explore the spectacular Elan Trail that loops past the reservoirs and dramatic dams of the Elan Valley, where the idea for Dambusters raid in 1940 originated (the ‘bouncing bomb’ was first tested here and you can still see the remains of the bombed dam today). Back home, open a beer on the deck and settle in as the bats swoop down in search of insects, or maybe you’ll spot a pair of hare ears in the long grass as the sun starts to set.

BOOK IT: qualityunearthed.co.uk

Cedar Valley, Hampshire

The Meon Valley, in the South Downs, is one of Hampshire’s hidden glories – think quintessential English villages, cosy traditional pubs, chalk streams and lush scenery. Tucked away on the Bereleigh Estate lies a collection of safari-style glamping tents, along with two recently launched log cabins (to join the bigger family cabin, Cowshed) – suitable for two people. Fashioned with sustainability in mind, expect reclaimed timber cladding (locally milled), insulation made with recyclable wool fibre and Tala LED light bulbs. All the better from which to enjoy the stunning views across the valley.

On site, you’ll find a double decker bus repurposed into a café and deli selling delicious local produce, as well as a mobile pizza oven, but mostly you’ll be out revelling in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, visiting Jane Austen’s house nearby or pootling around the independent shops in Petersfield and Alresford, renowned especially for its lovely interiors stores.

BOOK IT: cedarvalley.co.uk

Wildhive, Peak District

Out of pandemics come brands born with purpose. Wildhive is a new boutique hospitality brand, with nature at its core – and bees as its buzz. Its first property opens this summer at Callow Hall, where a collection of accommodation (apart from the 15 gorgeous rooms designed by Isabella Worsley in the main house) – from cabins and pigsties (former residents firmly rehomed) to treehouses and dens – will spring to live on the land, offering friends and families a wild place to stay and frolic. Cook marshmallows on communal firepits, take outdoor baths on the deck of your tucked-away Blue Forest treehouse, feast on the local, seasonal dishes of David Bukowocki (previously at Barnsdale Lodge) in the Garden Room and relax with an organic treatment in the Coach House wellness centre. And take home some honey.

BOOK IT: wildhive.co.uk

GETTING THERE WITH POLESTAR: Distance from Marble Arch is 146 miles. Lots of fast charging stations en route including Ionity Charging station at Milton Keynes. Click here to find your nearest Polestar Space.

Kymani, various locations

Kymani offers fully catered glamping sites in the grounds of some of the UK’s most stunning stately homes. Choose from locations such as Charlton Park in Wiltshire, Kentwell Hall in Suffolk, The Grange in Hampshire and Godstone Valley in Surrey. Each site will have a maximum of ten bell tents, complete with communal banqueting tables, where breakfast and dinner included, a library, lounge and games area. Food will be locally sourced with the focus on the finest produce available. Gather up your favourite friends and do a takeover of the whole site or book in individually.

BOOK IT: kymanigetaways.com

The Pig at Combe, Devon

Anyone who’s been to one of The Pig’s many renowned “restaurant with rooms” will know that this hotel group is serious about serving up locally sourced and sustainable food. The group’s newest member, The PIG-at Combe, is no different, with emphasis placed on the ‘25-mile menu’ concept, where seasonal dishes are entirely dependent on the kitchen gardens and local suppliers. Even botanical cocktails served in the bar have been infused with homegrown herbs lovingly plucked from the estate. The country hotel – which produces approximately 3.4 tons of its own fruit and vegetables every year – is also home to local beehives and works to reduce as much waste as possible, even growing its own mushrooms on used coffee grounds from the hotel restaurant. As for the interiors, a number of antique and upcycled furnishings have been used to create the hotel’s signature sumptuous-cum-rustic aesthetic, where accommodation includes the likes of a cosy thatch cottage nestled within the original walled garden and a resplendent open plan ‘Hayloft’ located in the stable yard.

BOOK IT: thepighotel.com

Featured Image: Moat Cottage at Wilderness Reserve, Suffolk

The post Eco Staycations: 40 Luxurious Places To Stay In 2023 appeared first on Country and Town House.

A Treetop Escape in the South Downs: Cowdray Tree Houses Review

Rebecca Cox — Sun, 09 Apr 2023 12:01:50 +0000

Who hasn’t dreamed of waking up amongst the leaves in their own tree house escape? Fulfilling that childhood dream is more appealing than ever, thanks to the new luxe Tree Houses at Cowdray Estate, finds Rebecca Cox.

Cowdray Tree Houses Review

STAY

The Enid Blyton tree house of my childhood visions involved scrabbling up a rickety ladder and ducking under a beam for entry. But Cowdray’s luxe new tree houses, built in collaboration with Tree House Retreats, are reached by a short lofted wooden ramp, and entry is via a full-sized front door into a smart tiled boot room. However, on entering the lounge, things get much more tree-house-y. The open-plan kitchen-lounge is all wood and glass, the exposed timber sourced from the estate blending seamlessly with the lush nature beyond the enormous bi-fold glass doors. Alongside the spacious living area is a large bedroom with a king size bed facing more glass doors and the woodland beyond, plus a chic tiled bathroom with a walk-in shower. If this is all feeling a little domesticated for you, you can shun the shower in favour of the wooden tub outside on the wraparound wooden terrace, tucked away into an enclave for privacy but perfectly positioned for a stargazing soak. And if you’ve ever wanted to experience an al fresco bath in the rain, the British weather may just acquiesce, as it did for me.

Visit our staycations hub

Along with the timber walls, the interiors reflect the woodlands around, with sheepskins, wool blankets, earthy tones and vintage linens: cosy cabin in the woods perfection. The walls are brightened with modern artworks sourced with Migrate Art, who collaborate with contemporary artists to raise money for displaced and homeless communities across the world.

There are four treehouses in a row nestled in the private woodland, separated by trees (and plenty of space) to ensure privacy from your neighbours. But they do share the view: over the famous Lawns Polo Ground and Cowdray ruins beyond.

DO

Every tree house has an electric buggy for getting between your car and tree house, and the short ride through the woodland often includes an encounter with the resident deer. There is also access to bicycles to explore Cowdray’s stunning grounds, which hold a wealth of activities to fill your days including art classes, polo, golf and clay pigeon shooting. Of course, with the South Downs on your doorstep, letting your feet lead you for a full day of hiking (via a local pub or vineyard) is also a great option, or short foraging walks through the grounds, with a stop at the café for sustenance. Cowdray Ruins is also a must-see, the original Cowdray House, with early guests including King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.

Alternatively, with a tree house holiday home this cosy, you may just want to hole up and enjoy the views from your terrace, your bed or the big-enough-for-two outdoor bathtub. If you visit on a clear night, take the opportunity for stargazing with a glass of local wine, since Cowdray is situated within the South Downs International Dark Skies Reserve.

Into glampting? Find all our latest glamping tips, reviews and locations content, here.

EAT

Cowdray’s award-winning Farm Shop & Café is a hub of local activity, stocking seasonal and local produce including sustainably managed wild venison, locally grown veg and freshly baked pies, cakes and breads. On arrival, tree house guests will receive a welcome hamper from the shop, stocked with a selection of supplies including baked goods, fruit, vegetables and snacks. On your way onto the site, stop off at the shop and choose a freshly-cooked meal for your evening’s supper (my cheese, leek and potato pie with red cabbage was the stuff of comfort food dreams).

THE FINAL WORD

Far from the rustic tree house adventure your younger self dreamed of, this is the ultimate grown-up woodland adventure for lovers of luxe living, hearty British food and evening soaks under the stars.

BOOK

One nights’ self-catering for two from £388 | Available to book online at treehouseretreats.com and cowdray.co.uk.

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Campervan Accessories to Revamp Your Ride

Felicity Carter — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 09:10:59 +0000

For those who love the freedom of road trips and are lucky enough to have a camper, here’s an edit of some handy accessories perfect for van life. From cosy touches like cushions, washable duvets and string fairy lights to practical items such as cool boxes, robust camp stoves and grills, these will help create a little home away from home. The adventure awaits…

Campervan Accessories to Revamp Your Ride

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Fortnum & Mason

Tartan Lambswool Picnic Blanket, £160, fortnumandmason.com

Crafted in Scotland from 100 percent brushed lambswool, this picnic blanket is made by weavers House of Edgar and designed by tartan specialist Araminta Campbell. Just add the coordinating eau de nil accessories and other Fortnum’s fare.

Coleman

Pack-Away Table for 4, £97.98, amazon.com

Designed to fit four people, this foldable table and bench set is practical and lightweight thanks to its aluminium construction. It also comes with washable bench seat covers.

Kleeneze

Cordless Hand Vacuum Cleaner, £50, wilko.com

Keep the camper clean with this mini cordless vacuum cleaner. The design is compact and lightweight, and it comes with a 11.1 V lithium-ion battery for long-lasting power.

EcoFlow

110W Solar Panel, £319, ecoflow.com

Portable and lightweight, this one-piece solar panel provides a conversion rate of up to 23 percent. Simply unfold it and prop it up in the sunlight.

NETGEAR

Nighthawk M1 4G LTE Mobile Router, £369.99, netgear.com

For WiFi on the go, the Nighthawk M1 Mobile Router device by NETGEAR allows quick download speeds of up to of 1 Gbps, for a smooth internet connection wherever you are.

vonhaus

Car Fridge-Freezer, £199.99, vonhaus.com

If you need some more fridge-freezer space, this one can hold nine 750ml wine bottles, 15 500ml bottles and 30 330ml cans. Perfect for a party.

Le Chameau

Portable Dog Bowl, £15, lechameau.com

This lightweight dog bowl from Le Chameau is portable, quick-drying, and available in deep red, navy and classic Vert Chameau green.

Barbour

Dog Travel Fleece Blanket, £39.95, outdoorandcountry.co.uk

For those travelling with a pooch, this Barbour blanket is an essential. Made from soft fleece fabric, it’ll keep your furry friend cosy and comfortable.

Lakeland

LED Light String with Hook and Loop – Set of 2, £9.99, lakeland.co.uk

Make your camper a little cosier with some warm white lights. Go for battery powered LEDs or solar powered fairy lights and string them up inside or out.

Dunelm

Padded Butterfly Folding Chair, £29, dunelm.com

This olive folding chair features a soft, cushiony fabric and a butterfly design so you can sit back and relax. It’s also waterproof and comes with its own carry bag.

Cox & Cox

Indoor Outdoor Diamonds Reversible Rug, £295, coxandcox.co.uk

For a homely appeal, set the scene with an indoor/outdoor rug. This option from British brand Cox & Cox is handwoven in a diamond design. You can even pair it with the matching throw and cushions.

Piper-Heidsieck

Cuvee Brut NV and BBQ, £120, thefinestbubble.com

A truly luxurious take on a miniature BBQ, this stainless steel option can also be used as a champagne cooler. It even comes with its own bottle of Piper-Heidsieck Cuvee Brut.

Status

LED Pop Up Camping Lantern, £5, dunelm.com

This lantern is a handy must-have: it’s effortlessly portable and includes an aluminium case, 360-degree lighting and metal handles. Let there be light.

Ninja

Foodi 9-in-1 PossiblePan, £129.99, ninjakitchen.co.uk

With nine different functions, this is truly a one stop-pot: you can steam, simmer, roast, braise, bake, sauté, sear, boil and fry in this 3.8L pan. It is suitable for all hob types and comes with zero-stick technology.

Primus

Kinjia Stove, 179.95, wildbounds.com

Light, compact and portable, this stove’s dual burners allow you to heat multiple pots at the same time. Thanks to the removable stainless-steel pot supports and stainless-steel drip tray, it’s easy to clean, too.

Dock & Bay

Quick Dry Towels, £25, dockandbay.com

Quick-drying and sustainable (made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles), these towels comes in a range of sizes and stripey colourways from Bondi blue to Phi Phi pink.

Simba

Hybrid 3-in-1 Duvet, from £249, simbasleep.com

Whether you’re camping in summer or winter, this machine-washable 3-in-1 duvet has been specially designed to suit all seasons. You can use the spring/autumn option as your main duvet, the summer version for warmer nights, and put the two together for when it’s really chilly.

OKA

Plain Velvet Cushion Cover, £60, oka.com

Add some colour and create a home-away-from-home feel with plenty of cushions. These velvet cushions from Oka guarantee texture and warmth.

COLVILLE

Bed Linen Throw, £287, yoox.com

For a statement throw, look to this one by Colville. It’s crafted in Italy from virgin wool in block colours of orange, blue and slate grey.

SNOW PEAK

Takibi Fire & Grill, £343, snowpeak.com

Gather round the campfire with the Takibi Fire and Grill. This packable fireplace-come-outdoor grill comes with a whole host of attachments including a grill net and a base plate as well as a handy carrying case.

YETI

Tundra 65 Cool Box, £350, yeti.com

A go-to brand for campers and all those who love the outdoors, Yeti offers a range of products from coolers to storage, as well as dog beds and even a selection of drinkware. This Tundra® 65 Cooler is known to be their most versatile cooler, ideal for storing drinks and food. It has heavy duty latches and a super strong construction, so it’ll last for years.

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Starry Eyed: Romantic Stargazing Escapes For Valentine’s Day

Olivia Emily — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 11:20:28 +0000

One of the (many) wonderful things about holing up in the country is the lack of pollution: air, sound and, most crucially, light. Suddenly, all of nature’s twinkling lights peep out from the darkness, and you can spot whole constellations – even planets sometimes. Chile’s Atacama Desert – with its high altitude, dry climate, and lack of pollution – is widely considered the world’s best stargazing destination, with the Northern Lights, Canary Islands, Namibia and Iceland all hot on Chile’s heels. If you’re looking for something a little closer to home, here are the best spots for stargazing in the UK.

Read the C&TH Responsible Tourism Guide

Where To Go Stargazing In The UK

The Three Chimneys

Isle of Skye, Scotland

Best For: Delicious food with a view

Foodies have been visiting The Three Chimneys in droves, but it’s also a lovely spot for stargazing in the UK. The ideal location on the Isle of Skye within one of Scotland’s designated Dark Skies areas makes for breathtaking sights during night walks after a delicious dinner, including the occasional aurora show.

BOOK: Double rooms from £380 per night. threechimneys.co.uk

Sperrinview

County Tyrone, Northern Ireland

Best For: Glamping lovers

Situated in the foothills of County Tyrone’s Sperrin Mountains, Sperrinview is a glamp-site situated in one of Northern Ireland’s first Dark Sky sites. Each pod, sleeping up to five, is kitted out with a full equipped kitchenette and private bathroom, as well as its own private ‘window to the stars’. By day, explore the nearby Beaghmore Stone Circles and local walking and cycling trails; by night, gather round a crackling campfire watching stars shoot across the sky, or lie back in your private pod gazing through the dedicated viewing window.

BOOK: From £105 per pod per night. sperrinviewglamping.com

Blyth Rise Stays

Suffolk, England

Best For: Lakeside retreat

Situated in the heart of Suffolk, Blyth Rise is a collection of 12 adult-only, lakeside lodges and ‘igluhuts’, set across ten acres of replanted land, thriving with trees, shrubs and flora, providing an immersive countryside retreat ideal for stargazing. Much of the East Anglian countryside and Suffolk’s pretty towns are within reach – but you’ll want to make sure you’re back by nightfall to watch the stars emerge from your private terrace, wrapped in a cosy, recycled-wool blanket.

BOOK: From £445 for a three-night weekend or four-night mid-week stay. blythrisestays.co.uk

The Pierhouse

Argyll, Scotland

Best For: Beachfront stargazing

The Pierhouse offers a secluded beachfront retreat, situated close to the quaint fishing village of Port Appin. The remoteness reveals constellations, planets and galaxies in the night sky, with the added benefit of the dark waters of the loch reflecting the magnificence. Guests can take a kayak onto the water after sunset; you’ll feel like you’re scooping through the shimmering universe with each paddle.

BOOK: pierhousehotel.co.uk

Finn Lough

County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland

Best For: A sky full of stars

Finn Lough Resort in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh – only two hours from Belfast by car – plays host to bespoke, adults-only Stargazing Forest Domes. Featuring a four-poster bed, waterfall shower, vintage record player, underfloor heating and telescope inside, the domes resemble giant bubbles from the outside, with plenty of vantage points from which to gaze at the brilliant stars above.

BOOK: From £275 per night based on two people sharing, including breakfast. finnlough.com

The Grand

York, England

Best For: National Park appreciation

If you’re a luxury lover but still want to try out stargazing in the UK, this one’s for you. Stay in the lap of luxury at The Grand in one of the UK’s loveliest cities, before zipping over to the North York Moors for some guided stargazing with Astronomer Richard Darn. The Grand even has a special package, with bookings on specific days to make the most of the Dark Skies region: head there on 14 February for a Valentines special.

BOOK: Dark Skies package from £305 per room per night based on two adults sharing, including breakfast, travel to the North York Moors and the guided stargazing experience, and a two-course meal at The Rise. thegrandyork.co.uk

Gleneagles

Perthshire, Scotland

Best For: An evening under the stars

Gleneagles – the iconic Perthshire hotel and estate – has introduced its ‘By The Lochan’ experience, allowing guests to soak up the incredible stars from a bespoke glass pod nestled into the countryside, following a self-guided walk through a winding nature trail. Enjoy dinner, whisky tastings, board games or simply a lie down as you gaze at the view.

BOOK: gleneagles.com

Silverlake

Dorset, England

Best For: Star spangled privacy

Head to Habitat Escapes’ Dorset estate, Silverlake, for contemporary privacy on the shoreline of Beaumont Lake. Stay in Driftwood to watch the twinkling stars from the chic roof terrace, or venture down to your private canoe launch platform to watch them glisten and shimmer in the mirror-like lake surface.

BOOK: Three nights in Driftwood from £1,119, sleeping up to eight across four bedrooms. habitatescapes.com

Featured Image: Silverlake Properties Dorset.

The post Starry Eyed: Romantic Stargazing Escapes For Valentine’s Day appeared first on Country and Town House.

Cute Off-Grid Cabins For A UK Getaway

Guest Writer — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 10:50:15 +0000

The ultimate eco holiday is one that is off grid, says sustainable travel expert and author Richard Hammond in his book The Green Traveller. But lest you think that means spending a night in a bivvy bag up the boughs of a tree, thanks to the great advances that have been made in renewable technology, there are lots of wonderful eco-friendly places on terra firma, from luxurious glampsites to beautifully renovated stone cottages, often in wonderful locations. The opportunity provided by these bolt holes – sanctuaries from the electronic demands of modern life – is to switch off, recharge, and enjoy the simple things: butterflies, birdsong and the night sky, where the only air conditioning is likely to be the sea breeze or the wind in the trees. Find some respite from the frenetic modern world with an electricity-free holiday in these off-grid cabins, selected by Richard and the C&TH team.

Read the C&TH Responsible Tourism Guide

Cute Off-Grid Cabins For A UK Getaway

Chaffinch Cottage

Northumberland, England

One of several holiday cottages converted from old stone houses 1,400 ft above sea level in the hills of the upper Coquet Valley in the Northumberland National Park, offering epic views and star-strewn night skies. Electricity for the estate is provided by solar panels and wind turbines, water comes from bore holes and wood burners use wood from the owners’ own wind.

BOOK IT: kidlandlee.co.uk

The Bothy at Nether Glenny

Port of Menteith, Scotland

Found in the splendid isolation of The Trossachs on an 84-acre hillside farm in the Menteith Hills overlooking the gorgeous Lake of Menteith, The Bothy is billed as a retreat just for two. There’s no TV or Wi-Fi, just wonderful views from a wood-fired hot tub. The pine-clad interior has one double room, kitchen, and a cosy mezzanine bedroom.

BOOK IT: netherglenny.com

Tiny House

Dorset

If lush green valleys and rolling hills are you bag, try Tiny House, a tranquil and eco-friendly base from which to explore the best countryside that Dorset has to offer. Set in a wildflower meadow close to the village of Plush, this ultra-modern off-grid cabin sits on wheels, with a flow-through layout featuring a little bathroom and a well-equipped kitchen. Try an al fresco picnic on the table come warmer months.

BOOK IT: £130 per night, minimum two night stay. escapeoffthegrid.com

Laggan

Ardnish, Scotland

A gorgeous, whitewashed cottage by the sea on the Ardnish peninsula in the north-west of Scotland that’s about as remote as it gets in the UK – there’s no road access, and the only way in is a three-hour walk or a 10-minute private boat trip. Lest you feel a little trapped, there’s a boat provided, so you can discover the marine wildlife and explore the wild coastline on foot or by sea before returning to the tranquil idyll.

BOOK IT: ardnish.org

Blackthorn Cottage

Crickhowell, Wales

A beautiful stone-roofed cottage on the slopes of the Black Mountains in the Brecon Beacons National Park close to the Georgian town of Crickhowell and Abergavenny, where there’s a railway station on the Welsh Marshes Line from Newport to Hereford. There’s just one room but there are day beds in the living room for extra people.

BOOK IT: holidaycottages.co.uk

Cosy Under Canvas

Powys, Wales

A well-established glampsite in the Brecon Beacons. The roomy geodesic domes are dotted throughout the woods, out of sight of one another. Lanterns are rechargeable electric, water comes from a spring, plus there’s a wood-fired hot tub, woodland shower, and an outdoor, upcycled Chiminea woodstove with a fire pit. Founded in 2009, the kitchens are kitted out with everything you could possibly need, including a Rayburn oven – great for slow cooking stews.

BOOK IT: cosyundercanvas.co.uk

Eco Retreats

Powys, Wales

This was one of the first yurt camps in the UK, on a working organic farm just outside Machynlleth, close to the Centre for Alternative Technology. Soak in the finest remote forest bathing – there are just five yurt camps (each with their own wood-fired baths) spread over 50 acres in the Dyfi Forest.

BOOK IT: ecoretreats.co.uk

Hinterlandes

Cumbria, England

Three places to stay that are moved to a new location every 28 days to ensure the lightest environmental footprint. Inspired by the tiny house movement in the USA, owners Hannah and John Graham have converted an American school bus and built a portable ‘hidden hut’ and contemporary larch cabin that they move to remote hideouts in the Lake District.

BOOK IT: hinterlandes.com

Birch Cottage

County Antrim, Ireland

A solar- and wind-powered cottage in birch woods on an organic smallholding among the rolling drumlin hills of the Mourne Mountains. The owners of this pioneering project, Steve and Claire, have aimed to meet its energy, food, waste and water requirements themselves. They’ve become so adept at it, the farm has become a centre for practical sustainability and they now supply off-grid equipment across Ireland.

BOOK IT: lackancottage.co.uk

Bulworthy Cabin

Devon, England

A lovely little cabin for two in its own private glade that’s part of a DIY woodland management enterprise known as the Bulworthy Project, transforming the woodland into a nature reserve. Solar power provides the electricity and the water is heated by a wood-burning stove. The owners plant a native or fruit tree for every night booked. The site is within the North Devon Biosphere Reserve, designated by UNESCO as an area of special environmental importance.

BOOK IT: bulworthy.uk

Devon Dens

Devon, England

Two sustainable timber cabins in woodland close to Dartmoor and beaches, in north and south Devon and Cornwall. Solar energy provides power, loos are dry with natural water filtration systems, all waste is composted and there are lots of biodiversity initiatives, including Freedom beehives.

BOOK IT: devondens.co.uk

The Green Traveller, £18.99, waterstones.com

The post Cute Off-Grid Cabins For A UK Getaway appeared first on Country and Town House.

Sustainable Things To Do In Wales

Charlie Colville — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 15:44:39 +0000

From mushroom foraging to bushcraft glamping to curious creepy-crawly cuisine, these are the sustainable things to do on your next visit to Wales.

Sustainable Things To Do In Wales

Explore nature at Glaslyn wildlife reserve

Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust’s biggest nature reserve is home to hundreds of species of plants, fungi, insects and birds – as well as the odd herd of sheep and cattle. In the Cambrian Mountains, Glaslyn also offers some stunning views. Visit in the summer to see the heather moorlands flower in shades of violet, mauve and plum. montwt.co.uk

Forage along the Pembrokeshire coast

Visitors to south Wales can get their forage on with Wild About Pembrokeshire, where guides Julia Horton-Mansfield and John Mansfield take groups along the shoreline in search of oceanic delights. Culinary enthusiasts should also make sure they stop by the duo’s Really Wild Emporium café, which features local foraged plants and marine algae on the menu. reallywildemporium.co.uk

Get your buzz on at Grub Kitchen

The UK’s only restaurant dedicated entirely to entomophagy puts an interesting spin on culinary classics. Grub Kitchen forgoes traditional protein sources in favour of creepy crawlies, with the hopes of lowering its environmental impact in farming and water usage. Feeling brave? Get stuck into some curried insect pakoras, mealworm gnocchi and cricket falafel. thebugfarm.co.uk

Catch a show at the UK’s first sustainable stadium

In 2010 the Welsh Rugby Union set out to make Cardiff’s Principality Stadium a better venue for the environment. Within 12 months, 70 tonnes of waste was kept from landfill, reducing CO2 emissions by nearly 30 tonnes. Today, sports and music fans alike flock to the stadium for a night of top-tier entertainment. principalitystadium.wales

Principality Stadium (c) Getty Images

Discover the Wales Coast Path by bike

Home to 870 miles of stunning coastline, Wales is a prime destination for cyclists wanting a little extra from their daily ride. The route is packed with cultural hotspots, from the seaside town of Llandudno to historic Conwy Castle. walescoastpath.gov.uk

Spot Britain’s biggest resident pod of dolphins

Head to Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre in New Quay for an aquatic adventure fit for kids and grown-ups alike. The centre, which is known for operating marine conservation activities, offers boat tours where volunteers will teach you how to spot local marine wildlife – such as dolphins, porpoises and seals – from a mile away. welshwildlife.org

Keep the kids happy with theme park visits

Voted the ‘best family attraction in North Wales’, GreenWood Family Park should be high up on the list for families with energetic children on side. The park spans over 27 acres of woodland and boasts solar-powered water rides, sledge runs, treetop towers and the world’s only people-powered roller coaster. Canine companions are also more than welcome. greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk

Glamp in the great outdoors

Combine a luxurious stay under the stars with courses in bushcraft, foraging and gin making at Penhein Glamping. While reconnecting visitors with nature, the glampsite adheres to a strict ‘buy locally and live sustainably’ mantra – water comes from a nearby spring, wood is sourced from fallen trees and food comes from local businesses or is grown on site. penhein.co.uk

See renewable energy in action at Bodnant Garden

Bodnant Garden in North Wales welcomes thousands of visitors every year to its sprawling estate, where over 80 per cent of energy needs are met with renewable technologies. Take a stroll amongst the flowers, visit the solar-powered tearoom and be sure to check out Bodnant Garden’s conservation projects. nationaltrust.org.uk

Learn something new at the Centre for Alternative Technology

Powys’ Centre for Alternative Technology is committed to researching and communicating positive solutions for environmental change. It offers courses for both kids and grown-ups, from renewable energy and organic farming to planet-friendly construction, rewilding and social forestry. cat.org.uk

Centre for Alternative Technology (c) Keith Morris

Featured image: Llanddwyn Island Lighthouse in Snowdonia National Park at sunset, North Wales.

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A Guide to Camping With Kids

Rebecca Cox — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 13:20:46 +0000

Planning on enjoying the great outdoors this year with a family camping trip? ‘Camping with Kids’ by Simon McGrath gives 400 inspirational ways to have fun as a family, so if you’re looking for camping tips, here are 11 ways to have fun this season, come rain or shine. (And if it still doesn’t appeal, try glamping.)

Read the C&TH Responsible Tourism Guide

Camping with Kids: The Ultimate Guide

Section 1: Getting There and Pitching Up

In-Car Entertainment

Audio books are great for young minds to visualise stories. Roald Dahl and David Walliams stories are particularly good when read out loud, and books with pop-up pictures add an extra dimension to reading. Reusable children’s stickers can be great on rear windows to create imaginative games and stories.

Find The Tap!

Most large campsites supply a handy map of the site. Ask if you can have one for each young camper and set a challenge to be first to find the drinking water tap. Or get into teams and allocate a list of places to find. If someone in each group has a smartphone, take a selfie as proof that you found them. Better still, give each team a camera to use. Or for more creative campers, challenge them to draw their own site map (remember to pin it to your fridge back home as a reminder of your camping adventure).

Take Your Compass

Why? Because if you pitch the tent with the front door facing east, the rising sun will warm the living area and work its way through the tent. It’s far nicer to poke your head out of the tent early in the morning and feel the warmth of the morning sun on your face than unzipping the door to a chilly side that’s cast in shadow.

Glamp Up Your Tent

Dream up ways to glamp up your own tent with the help of your little ones. Think plush, think unnecessary. Think bean bags, rugs, warm blankets and scatter cushions. Forget minimal packing – glamping is about going overboard with added style. Solar-powered fairy lights are widely available and don’t need batteries. Buy a plain tipi and decorate it with your own funky artwork (using waterproof paint, of course). Paint empty jam jars and use them for tea lights, keeping them outside for warm evenings. Smarten up the table with a colourful cloth and napkins. Take along a small chalkboard and write an inspiring thought for the day, a list of birds and flowers to spot or a family activity challenge. Avoid writing the list of chores – you’re glamping after all. And you don’t have to head to a campsite. Why not step outside the backdoor and go garden glamping?

Section 2: Reconnecting with Nature

Learn Tracking Skills

You can really hone your outdoor skills by learning to track wildlife. The best starting place is to sign up for one of the ranger-led activity sessions that are held across the country and include some night-time walks when the wildlife will be quite different from that you’d find during daylight hours. Rangers have a wealth of knowledge about the local wildlife to share and teach tracking skills. It’s exciting to spot an animal track in the ground, identify the creature and follow its path. Often it will lead to a waterhole, where other animal footprints are likely to be found. Although you may not get sight of the creature itself, it’s still rewarding to be able to identify the telltale signs that an animal has recently been on the same track as you.

Learn A Basic Breathing Technique

The Hakini Mudra in yoga is said to help boost thinking and concentration, and can be easily practised anywhere. Hold up your hands in front of your chest, palms facing each other, but do not touch. Bring the fingertips of your right hand towards the fingertips of your left hand so that they are touching. Move your gaze upwards. Inhale while placing your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Then exhale while allowing your tongue to relax. Practise these steps several times. It’s helpful when you’ve forgotten something momentarily and want to recollect it.

Section 3: Relearning Ancient Skills

Build A Tipi

A tipi-shaped den is perhaps the most common den structure and the easiest to construct. To make one that leans against the base of a tree, find some large branches of similar size and place them around the tree trunk or part of it (ideally, choose a tree with a trunk that is not too wide). Overlap and interlock the branches at the top for added stability and then weave some smaller branches horizontally between the main supports. By starting at the bottom and working up, there will always be a lower level to support the new layer you are making. On top of this frame place piles of leaves and twigs and continue to weave longer sticks into the frame to make a protective lattice. You could also build a freestanding tipi away from a tree by ensuring that the main supporting branches are well interlocked and by tying them securely together at the top where they connect.

FFF (Family Fantasy Fable)

Write exciting words on pieces of paper – for example ‘giant’, ‘shipwreck’ or ‘exploded’. Fold them up and put them into a pot. Each member of the family picks one out and has to create a short story around the word. Alternatively, one person picks out a word to start the story and after two minutes, the next person picks out a new word to continue the tale. Repeat this process until everyone has had a turn and the last person creates the ending. You’ve created your own family fantasy fable.

Section 3: Games and Activities

Make A Collage

Set the children the challenge of collecting a variety of natural materials from a list, ticking them off as they find them. Consider things such as daisies, pine cones, twigs and leaves (remembering to identify the type of tree at the same time). Have a large clean sheet of paper to hand and glue or tape the objects down, or they can just be laid out on top of it. Try to recreate the scene outside the tent door using the foraged materials. Or make an imaginative 3D map of the campsite. Take the collage a step further and use the materials to create a fish or ladybird shape. The fish’s scales or fi ns could be made from a collection of cockle shells, for example. Or craft a ladybird from tiny stones painted red and black, with twigs for the antennae. Alternatively, find a bugshaped pebble and paint it bright ladybird colours, adding googly eyes to help bring it to life.

Rose Petal Perfume

To make your own fragrance, courtesy of Mother Nature, you’ll need a small plastic bottle with lid or a clean jam jar (labels removed) to store the scent plus a couple of handfuls of rose petals, a sieve, pan and stove, and one-and-a-half to two cups of water. First ensure the petals are clean. Then bring the water slowly to the boil. Add the rose petals and simmer for a couple of hours. Allow the water to cool, and then sieve the water. Give the now cool petals a squeeze in the sieve to remove further scent. Pour it into your bottle ready for use. Dream up a name for your perfume and design a label to stick to the bottle. Why not experiment with different scents by blending ingredients together? Try flower petals such as daisies and lavender, pine needles or even fruit.

Section 6: Classic Campfire Cookery

Crumble In A Package

Make a tin-foil parcel. Add a mix of ingredients such as rhubarb and strawberry, apple and cinnamon, or apple and chocolate, and a splash of water. Place in the embers of the fire and cook for a few minutes (about three minutes for rhubarb and strawberry, while apple and cinnamon would need approximately eight minutes). Open up and fold the edges of the foil down to create your own bowl. Then crumble good-quality ginger biscuits into each parcel, add a blob of crème fraîche and spoon straight from your makeshift bowl.

Classic S’mores

S’mores are simple and delicious. Take two digestives and place a square of chocolate on both biscuits. Spike your marshmallows (maximum of two) onto a skewer or stick. Toast them over the campfire or barbecue, ideally turning them until hot and they start to brown. Place them onto the bottom half of your biscuit and chocolate and add the identical top layer. Push down so the hot marshmallows begin to melt the chocolate and, using that same pressure, remove the skewer (remember the marshmallows will be very hot, especially in the middle). Give the s’more a little more time to melt the chocolate and also cool down – and then scoff! They’re messy to eat and the marshmallow sticks to your fingers and clings to your chin, so just go with the flow – there’s no elegant way to eat one. S’mores don’t have to be toasted on a campfire. Gas stoves will also do the job but the heat will be a lot fiercer.

Camping with Kids by Simon McGrath is out now.

Featured Image (c) Ron Lach via Pexels.

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