What better way is there to get back in touch with Mother Nature than grabbing your sleeping bag and spending a weekend living in the Great Outdoors? So, if you’re up for a bit of camping, but are looking for something a little different from your classic bare field and questionable toilet block, check out our round up of some of the UK’s quirkiest campsites.
Roulotte Retreat, Scottish Borders
These six gypsy caravans - or roulottes - may be French/Dutch in origin, but have now parked up and found a new home in the Scottish Borders. A stylish, bohemian alternative to your average nylon held up with metal tent poles, these wooden wagons are all given their own names and personalities. Would you prefer to stay in Devanna with her peacock carvings? Or Rajisthani inspired Maharani? Zenaya and Gitana are fully equipped with eco hot tubs for you to soak in under the stars, and Ruby is even connected to Horseshoe Cottage, but we think this is a bit too far removed from the great outdoors if you’re looking to qualify as a camper! Roulotte Retreat has a strict ethos, aiming to be a place to relax and rejuvenate, organising yoga retreats and inviting you to attend owner Avril’s yoga classes every Tuesday in the village hall.
Image Credit: Julie Gibbons via Flickr
Roulotte Retreat is located near Melrose, Scottish Borders, TD6
Teepee Valley, Armagh, Northern Ireland
Who would have thought that to get a traditional Native American teepee experience, they should head to Northern Ireland? The surrounding views, whilst not authentic to the Native American vibe, showcase the area's farming countryside, the Cusher River and Slieve Gullion (the tallest mountain in the county). Billed as perfect for kids or a romantic getaway Teepee Valley also offers accommodation in 2 yurts, a geodesic dome, a log cabin and a gypsy caravan for those who don’t fancy sleeping under canvas.
Image Credit: Teepe Valley Campsite via Facebook
Teepee Valley is located at 20 Shanecrackan Road, Markethill, Co. Armagh, BT60 1TS
Dreamy Hollow Campsite, Norfolk
The great outdoors is full of a lot of creatures and creepy crawlies, but also a lot of history. For example, in this woodland campsite in Norfolk, your neighbours won’t just be the birds and the bees, but also a series of WW1 trenches. The trenches were dug by the Lovat Scouts unit as they prepared to go to battle, and during your stay you can book a tour to learn more about their past.
Image Credit: Dreamy Hollow via Facebook
Dreamy Hollow Campsite is located at Fakenham Road, Stanhoe, Norfolk
Saddlescombe Farm Campsite, Brighton
If you really want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Saddlescombe Farm prides itself upon being “quiet and simple”. They don’t even allow vehicles on site - in order to maintain the peace and tranquillity - which makes it a perfect stop off point if you’re walking the South Downs Way. Being set within the Devil’s Dyke Estate also means there’s lots to discover, including an iron age hill fort and the remains of a Victorian fun fair (which isn’t haunted… we hope!)
Image Credit: The National Trust
Saddlescombe Farm Campsite is located at Saddlescombe Road, Saddlescombe, Brighton, East Sussex, BN45 7DE
Scales Plantation Glamping, Cumbria
When you think of glamping, you may envisage a trendy tipi adorned with gingham bunting and tea lights, but have you ever thought of staying in an old shepherd’s hut? Set within a 13-acre woodland in the corner of Scales working farm - which is located 1000 meters above sea level - Scales Plantation boasts three different retired shepherd’s huts that have been transformed with luxury beds, wood burning stoves, and even a private bathroom where, by rolling back the canvas, you can enjoy a little bit of outdoor bathing! Remember your walking boots, because what would a visit to the Lake District be without an intrepid mountain hike? And after all, it would be difficult to resist the breathtaking views of Skiddaw, Bowscale Fell and Carrock that you get from Scales Plantation.
Image Credit: Scales Plantation via Facebook
Scales Plantation Glamping is located at Scales Farm, Berrier, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0XE