Camping has always been considered a wholesome way to get close to nature, appreciate the simpler things in life, and bond with other outdoorsy types. But too often damp tents, uneven ground, deflating airbeds, and having to use a bucket as a bathroom can take the shine off the experience.
But, there’s a comfortable compromise, and it’s also one of the hottest vacations to take in the UK: glamping—otherwise known as a glamorous version of camping—where cheap canvas is switched out for roomy safari tents, cute shepherds’ huts, tree houses, and even old-school Airstreams. This down-to-earth (but high on style) trend is taking off across the British Isles. Ahead, we’ve rounded up five fun places to enjoy camping in the lap of luxury. Just bring your favorite pillow and enjoy getting close to nature without getting your hands dirty.
The Healing One
Chase Farm is a boutique glampsite in the southern county of Sussex. It offers two cottages, an Airstream, and an adorable shepherd’s hut as its accommodations. Each is equipped with state-of-the-art kitchens, Egyptian cotton sheets, and duck feather bedding. Close to Gatwick airport and the coastal town of Brighton, this gorgeous glampsite is situated on a working farm set among rolling green hills. There are wonderful hiking and e-biking opportunities on the South Downs. Sussex is famous for its sparkling wines, and nearby vineyards will open their cellar doors to visitors. Up the relaxation at this rural retreat, with massages and gong baths available on site.
The Treetop One
Discover your inner Tarzan as you relax in a luxurious wooden treehouse complete with a roll-top copper bathtub, right in the middle of a UNESCO North Devon Biosphere reserve. At The Nest at Sleepy Owl, a woodfired stove adds to the cozy atmosphere, and there’s a glamorous four-poster bed, a cinema projector, and a fully equipped kitchen with a Nespresso machine for the coffee lovers. There’s a hot tub in the courtyard, too. Near the sea and the countryside, this is a real getaway.
The Royal One
Feel like a real explorer among the restful scenery of North Norfolk in a super luxury safari tent. At Wild Luxury Drove Orchards, you’ll enjoy 350 acres of orchards, farmland, and wild meadows. It’s close to Holkham, a local beach popular with the British royal family. In fact, Sandringham Estate is only 20 minutes away—ideal for a cultural day out and a possible glimpse of a royal.
Equipped with leather sofas, wood stoves, and grills, these tents make great destinations for glampers who like food. A farm shop and fish market nearby make shopping a breeze.
The Wilderness One
Set in the beautiful countryside of Essex, Chigborough Farm and Fisheries lets glampers benefit from a beautiful lakeside setting, complete with trout fishing. The marquee accommodation, the Raft, floats on its own private fishing lake and offers a beautiful deck and outdoor kitchen. Try fishing for trout from the deck, or take a rowboat around the lake to enjoy the tranquil waters. Or try Birdsong Camp, which is situated in a lakeside clearing. A luxury hamper of local delicacies is provided on arrival. The highlight? A private hot tub to relax and listen to the birdsong.
The Astronomical One
In the wilds of England’s magnificent Lake District and perched on the shore of beautiful Ullswater, you’ll take refuge in an upscale shepherd’s hut nestled within a field of rhododendrons. At Another Place, The Lake, you’ll experience the true wonder of glamping, complete with all imaginable comforts of the hotel nearby.
Spend your days hiking, open water swimming, or paddle boarding across the famous Ullswater Lake, then relax in a stunning freestanding bath with views over the countryside or nip to the hotel for a swim in the beautiful pool. But by far the most unique feature of this accommodation is a star gazing roof in the bedroom – giving guests the chance to watch meteor showers and shooting stars in clear unpolluted skies above the lake, from the cozy comfort of a quality bed.
