Blackberry Wood

• Sleeps: 2-4 per unit
• Bedrooms: Varies
• Bathrooms: Varies
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Blackberry Wood is just as enchanting as the name suggests. With a range of wonderfully imaginative glamping options – all set around a red telephone box and old-fashioned lamppost – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world. However, you really are in Sussex’s glorious South Downs, just 1.5 hours from London and 30 minutes from Brighton.

The Holiday Bus (sleeps 4)
1964…just a year after ‘Summer Holiday’ hit our screens, and the year The Holiday Bus hit London’s roads! Now in retirement, this double-decker Routemaster enjoys life at Blackberry Wood, cleverly converted into unforgettable holiday accommodation. Ideal for two couples or a family, you’ll find a well-equipped kitchen and dining area downstairs, complete with a 2-ring gas cooker, grill, toaster and fridge. Upstairs is your top-deck lounge and sleeping area, and even a soft play area which turns into a super-king bedroom at night.

The Holicopter (sleeps 4)
Most people never get to board a helicopter, let alone holiday in one! However, this converted 1965 Wessex Search and Rescue helicopter lets you do just that. With two double beds (one of which converts to two singles), it’s perfect for thrill-seekers who like their holidays with a difference. Grey camo décor throughout sets the tone of exciting adventure – but your mission is to simply relax in your super quirky, super comfy Holicopter. You’re also treated to a private outside kitchen area with a 2-ring gas cooker, fridge and toaster.

The Curvy Cabin (sleeps 4)
Wonderfully cosy and wonderfully unique – that’s just one way to sum up the Curvy Cabin. This self-contained, light and modern wood-clad cabin – with curved walls at each end – offers oodles of style but minimal environmental impact. As well as a comfy double bed and two bunks, you’ll find a modern kitchen (with a 4-ring gas cooker, toaster, and fridge) and even your own shower room, decorated with fantastic woodland wallpaper. And, thanks to heating throughout and a lovely wood burner, this is one cosy year-round retreat.

The Gypsy Caravan (sleeps 2)
There’s something very romantic about a gypsy caravan, and few are as stunning as the one you’ll find at Blackberry Wood. Handmade and decorated by gypsies, this perfectly preserved 1930s bow-top caravan promises an unforgettable retreat for two starry-eyed lovers. A snug double bed makes for sweet dreaming, whilst outside, a charming wooden kitchen with a heart-shaped window is ideal for cooking up rustic romance and features a 2-ring gas cooker, fridge and toaster.

‘Higgledy’ and ‘Piggledy’ – the two Treehouses (each sleep 4)
Higgledy and Piggledy are very aptly named; there simply is no better way to describe these truly stunning, slightly crazy and ever-so-magical fairytale treehouses. Set aloft among the trees, everyone will fall in love with their beautifully ramshackle designs and gorgeous quirky touches. Don’t be fooled however; each one is perfectly sturdy and self-sufficient, with luxurious wood-clad interiors.

Higgledy is easily identified for its turret, while Piggledy has a wide pitched roof and an exquisite stained-glass, heart-shaped window. Each one features two cosy double beds, a fully fitted kitchen with a 2-ring ceramic hob, a fridge, freezer and microwave oven, and even a beautiful shower room. Both are fully insulated, with a wood burner to keep you warm on chilly days, while in summer, the large deck with chiminea is perfect for outdoor dining long into the evening.

At a glance

• Wonderfully quirky South Downs glamping, near Ditchling, Sussex
• Choose from The London Bus, The Holicopter, The Curvy Cabin, The Gypsy Caravan, the ‘Higgledly’ and ‘Piggledy’ Treehouses and Angus the Fire Engine.
• All sleep 4 (except the Gypsy Caravan for 2) – ideal for families and couples
• Self-contained bathrooms in The Curvy Cabin, Fire Engine and Treehouses
• Private cooking facilities with each
• All crockery, cutlery, pots and pans included in glamping units – just bring your own bedding (except in the treehouses where bedding and towels are provided)
• Woodland glade camping pitches also available
• Explore South Downs and south coast; 30 mins from Brighton

Features

• Family Friendly

More information

‘Angus’ the Fire Engine (sleeps up to 4)
A new addition in 2019, we can just imagine the excitement that this quirky fire engine conversion will bring to the faces of big and little kids alike! Expertly refurbished to a high standard and nestled in its own spot of woodland, Angus is fully insulated with heating, along with its own kitchen and dining area and double bunk beds adding to the sense of adventure.

If you’re more of a traditionalist, Blackberry Wood also features camping pitches among a selection of private woodland glades. Unlike some sprawling campsites, there’s space for just 20 tents at most – giving you an altogether more peaceful, exclusive experience.

All guests have access to the onsite toilets and hot showers (although you’ll have your own if you’re staying in the Curvy Cabin, Fire Engine or one of the treehouses). There’s also a handy shop for essentials, including logs and BBQ coal for your fire pit.

There’s much more to see in this stunning part of Britain, with countryside around you and the coast in easy reach. Navigate the plethora of nearby public footpaths and bridleways, a number of which lead to some excellent country pubs! Kids will love a day at Drusillas Park, while a trip on the Bluebell Railway is charming for all the family. Parents may enjoy a visit to Ridgeview Vineyard, and surely everyone will want to get active outdoors, whether that’s hiring bikes, trying out a new water sport, or hiking across the sensational Seven Sisters.

So whether you’re treating the kids to some incredible memories, or unleashing your inner child to make some of your own, glamping options don’t get more magical than those at Blackberry Wood. The only difficulty? Deciding which to choose!

Things to note

Please note that you must bring your own bedding, towels and pillows (except for treehouses where bedding and towels are provided). As all accommodation is a shoe-free zone, we recommend bringing slippers. 2 night minimum stay (1 night breaks may be possible midweek in low season), no children in the Gypsy Caravan. Dogs are not permitted in any of the units, only in camping area, WiFi is available, check-in is from 3pm. Low season midweek prices per night from £10 for camping to £160 for a treehouse. Please check site for further price details and availability.