The Meadow Glamping

• Sleeps: 2 per unit
• Bedrooms: Open plan
• Bathrooms: Private external
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

The Meadow is a glorious two-acre slice of idyllic Hampshire countryside. Peacefully tucked away from the world, the off-grid glamping site is still set close to the bustling centre of Broughton, a traditional chocolate-box English village.

An outrageously romantic setting with three idyllic havens spaced privately at opposite ends of a 100-feet wide lake, you can spend your days in complete, blissful seclusion. Row on the sparkling water, challenge your loved one to a round of tennis, or simply watch the ducklings glide past on the Wallop Brook… as you look up from the pages of that book you never seem to find time for at home.

Choose your exquisite accommodation from Wild Billy’s, a gorgeous and completely original Showman’s Wagon, a dreamlike haven named Mary’s Place, both lovingly restored and restyled to plush perfection, and, most recently, The Magic Rat – a vintage narrowboat with access to its own peaceful island.

Originally built in the 1890s, Wild Billy’s has plenty of stories to tell! He was a travelling gypsy home for many years, and he was even used as a coconut shy during his fairground days (see if you can spot his cute dents in the wood!)

Wild Billy’s has since received a huge dose of care and attention, in a true labour of love that has seen him emerge as the best version of himself. Decked in cheerful, vibrant colours and sumptuous furnishings, and facing the tranquil lake, this is the ideal romantic setting to breathe out and relax.  

Creature comforts are aplenty here, with a crackling woodburner to warm your evenings.  There’s also a deliciously comfy memory foam double mattress, topped with a cosy duvet and a fur throw (just you try resisting the lure of the lie in!)

Meanwhile, Mary’s Place is a quirky hideaway comprising of a stylishly converted former trailer, a beautiful summer house and funky outdoor space. Discover a vibrant riot of colour, rich in bohemian style and furnished for romantic comfort, with its deep pile carpet and downy bed. Your bedroom comes complete with a wall of folding glass doors, so you won’t miss a waking moment of those views!

At a glance

• A lovingly restored showman’s wagon and restyled trailer, both sleeping two guests, privately secluded on a peaceful two-acre rural glamping site in the village of Broughton, Hampshire.
• Also on site is The Magic Rat, a romantic 23ft Springer narrowboat for two.
• Facilities include kitchen equipment, vintage crockery and a firepit, plenty of cosy bedding and towels. Pack plenty of all-weather clothing.
• A private shower and toilet is provided. 
• Pets not permitted.
• The grounds are home to a grass tennis court and a wildlife-steeped lake with a rowing boat for you to use.
• The local pubs are a five-minute walk away, with plenty to see and do close by.

Features

• Large Groups
• Off-Grid

More information

Better still, you’ll have private access to your very own slice of the outdoors, which features a gorgeous summer house that overlooks the lake – an ideal spot for a secluded, steaming cuppa.

Wherever you decide to rest your heads, generous facilities are taken care of, with your own private compost loo, and a private shower with plenty of piping hot water.  

You’ll find that cooking takes on an irresistible air when carried out al fresco, with a Romany-style tripod over an open fire. For extra authenticity, you can even try cooking an original traveller’s recipe created by Gypsy Joey Grey – a hearty and delicious meat-and-potatoes broth. Or why not order a gourmet hamper for an extra treat?

By day, say hello to the visiting wildlife as you while away some time in the garden. There’s certainly a lot to spot, from moorhens to woodpeckers (not to mention the resident kingfisher) to Phil the pheasant, and even a few roe deer.

Now it’s time to explore further afield! This is a wonderful part of the world for walking and cycling, but if you don’t fancy travelling too far, there are some excellent pubs within a mere five-minute stroll. The Bombay Sapphire gin distillery is a 30-minute drive away…a must for lovers of a refreshing sunshine tipple!

Sightseeing is covered too, with the magnificent Stonehenge a 20 minute drive away, and National Trust Mottisfont Abbey – with its famous rose garden – close by.

With so much beauty to feast your eyes upon, so much luxurious home comfort to enjoy, and the company of your loved one to revel in, who needs that laptop, anyway?

Things to note

Adults only (unless all units are booked by one group). No pets permitted. Accommodation is off-grid but electricity is available onsite at The Old Store.  Billy’s is priced from £210 for 2 nights whilst Mary’s Place is from £230 for 2 nights. Group bookings for 6-16 people are available.

Please check the FAQs section of the owner’s website for information regarding safe stays and procedure during the current pandemic.