With the driest UK weather since 1961 getting many of us a little hot under the collar, what better idea than to plan an outdoor glamping break to take full advantage of this unusually sunny summer? These three new arrivals to Host Unusual will allow you to do just that.
We begin in the stunning Quantock Hills of Somerset where a range of wigwams, tents, tipis, yurts and tents await, all surrounded by pretty rolling hills. We head to East Yorkshire next and a friendly site ideal for families, featuring a shepherd’s hut and glamping pod close to nearby seaside resorts for some bucket and spade action. Finally we explore Wales from a shepherd’s hut retreat meaning ‘rugged hill’, a delightfully secluded retreat close to gorgeous countryside and mountain scenes.
Somerset’s Quantock Hills are a refreshingly rural setting and this family-run glamping site (above and main picture) is situated in the heart of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Surrounded by pine-scented Christmas trees, lush vineyards and rolling hills, the views really are exceptional here, and as it’s a farm the land is peacefully peppered with free range chickens, grazing cows, alpacas and mischievous miniature donkeys! Choose your accommodation from an eclectic selection: wigwams, shepherd’s huts, a tipi, yurts, lodges or Belle Tents comprising a total of 32 units, with the charming shepherd’s huts and two couples wigwams also including access to a private wood fired hot tub. Venture out, explore the vineyards and indulge in some local wine-tasting, maybe take a farm tour or fuel your adrenaline at the on-site activity centre Black Rock Outdoors, offering everything from kayaking and water zorbing to High Ropes.
The quirky and scenic Hollym Park is a friendly, family-run camping site located in a peaceful East Riding of Yorkshire village. With plenty of deluxe facilities and unusual places to rest your heads (not to mention the traditional seaside resort of Withernsea temptingly nearby), you’ll find the perfect antidote to your stressful everyday life is right here. An ideal romantic retreat for two, Bunnies Burrow Shepherd’s Hut is lovingly custom-built and enclosed within its very own south-facing garden. Overlooking the wide open fields, this is a wonderful spot for sunrise watching and stargazing alike. Meanwhile, Puddleduck’s Pod is ideal if you enjoy all the sights, sounds and smells of the Great Outdoors, but you’d rather not have to wrestle with a tent to experience it! Ideal for two adults and a small child, you’ll enjoy holing up inside this insulated ‘wooden tent’ with its distinct country den-like feel.
A warm “Croeso” awaits at this charming shepherd’s hut, nestled in the awe-inspiring Black Mountains of South Wales. ‘Bryn Arw’ means ‘rugged hill’ in Welsh, perfectly setting the rural scene for a tranquil and soul-reviving break in the Black Mountains… with the dog more than welcome along, too. With Abergavenny’s magnificent Sugar Loaf Mountain close by, and exceptional countryside views in every direction, the only sounds you’ll hear from your secluded shepherd’s hut are those of nature. Think owls hooting at night, and leaves rustling in the breeze by day. Charmingly decorated and with an immediate ‘home from home’ feel, Caban Bryn Arw is equipped with plenty of cosy comforts, including a crackling log burning stove, soft lighting and a super-comfy bed. You’ll be aching to curl up with a glass (or two) of wine after a hard day exploring the local area!
