Ideal for reconnecting with nature once lockdown is lifted.
The 19th century poet and playwright Robert Browning certainly had it right when he wrote…
“Oh, to be in England now that April’s there, And whoever wakes in England sees, some morning, unaware, That the lowest boughs and the brushwood sheaf round the elm-tree bole are in tiny leaf, While the chaffinch sings on the orchard bough in England – now!!”
Admittedly, we’ve been inside and uninspired for so long, staring blankly at the walls awaiting further government instruction, that our thoughts are a little more prosaic. Regardless; we bloody miss the British countryside!
Though nothing is confirmed, it’s likely that late Spring and Summer will see us enjoying the Great British outdoors once again. And as soon as we’re able to, nothing sounds more liberating than a holiday spent outside, amongst nature, breathing in crisp, clean air and staring across a gorgeous vista rather than into our screens.
Rather than wrestling with tent pegs, mallets and finding that you’re missing a couple of poles, how does a spot of glamping sound? All boxes have never been ticked quite so enthusiastically. That said, the world of glamping in the UK is surprisingly rich and diverse, with the term really an umbrella (pack one) for many types of luxury outdoor accommodation options.
Some preparation and planning, then, is necessary if you’re going to have the best possible trip. With that in mind, here are 5 tips for getting the most from your next glamping experience, IDEAL for reconnecting with nature once lockdown is lifted.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF GLAMPING
Glamping gives you an utterly unique experience, and anyone who has ever gone glamping will attest to this. How we’re longing for that sense of freedom and space right now. We’re sure you’re the same.
There are various glamping breaks offered across the country, and this unique type of holiday can provide a surprising amount of variety – from a fully-catered group camping to romantic couple’s tents, all the way to elaborately-designed tipis and even full-on rustic bungalow retreats, and from remote glamping spots in the wilderness of Wales and the Scottish Highlands to coastal cabins by the sea, there’s something for everyone out there. You can even stay in a treehouse in rural Kent, set six feet above the ground, if you so wish! So many of us longed for a treehouse as a kid, and still as an adult, it feels like the ultimate escape.
What we’re trying to say is that glamping is diverse and varied in its scope, and rather than casting your net far and wide hoping to land a night spent under the stars, it’s more sensible to narrow down your search somewhat, in terms of your specific needs and wants from your trip.
Whether you’re after a pod, cabin, caravan, yurt, treehouse or trailer, rest assured that glamping will have you covered.
EMBRACE DINING ALFRESCO
With nearly everything taken care of for you in terms of the canvas over your head and the water flowing from the well-appointed, heated outdoor showers, glamping is an opportunity to really embrace the back-to-basics essence of outdoor cooking.
Let’s face it, cooking and dining al fresco is one of life’s great pleasures, and just about every Brit is sick of the sight of their own dining table right now. Most glamping spots come with cooking facilities, which means you can rustle up more than instant noodles and a fry up. In many cases, that time spent cooking over fire and having a few warming whiskeys becomes the highlight of the trip!
That said, a successful al fresco dining experience does require some planning. If your glamping spot doesn’t have a fridge, invest in a good cool box to store your frozen and refrigerated items. Freeze milk, orange juice and even sparkling water – they will act like an ice block in your cool box, keeping your other food items cool as it gradually defrosts. Freeze a tasty ragu or curry for a fuss-free meal on your first night, and consider a barbeque on the second; many of the best glamping spots boast an onsite farm shop selling locally sourced meats and locally grown veg; heaven!
Some useful camping cooking hacks:
- Bring some foil – almost anything can be cooked on an open flame when wrapped up in tin foil.
- Bring Wine in a box so you don’t have to worry about empty bottles.
- A big umbrella is your friend – to hold over the BBQ in case it rains.
AMP UP THE GLAMP
Glam up your glamping experience with some added home comforts. Let’s face it, you’re not here to ‘slum it’; it’s the peace and quiet, the fresh air, and the connection with nature that makes glamping so fantastic. So, don’t be afraid to bring a few items to make things feel more comfortable and, whisper it, even decadent.
You won’t be roughing it on the hard ground – a bed or mattress will be provided – but slipping between the sheets on your glamping trip should provoke a satisfied groan. Bring your own pillows or throws and a treasured blanket for extra comfort.
Luxury glamping is all about ambience and the little touches can elevate outdoor living into something all the more luxurious. Consider bringing some strings of solar panelled fairy lights and lanterns for an ethereal glow, and pack some citronella smelling candles to create a serene atmosphere and also keep the bugs away.
A portable radio or Bluetooth speaker is a welcome addition, too, providing a relaxing soundtrack to your trip. Just don’t blast out the 90s drum and bass too loudly; you may well have neighbours who are also seeking serenity, after all!
DON’T FORGET TO BE PREPARED
Do remember that glamping is still camping, just fancier. The biggest mistake people make when glamping is to assume that all of their needs will be completely catered for.
In fact, nights spent sleeping al fresco in the British countryside can get surprisingly cold, even in summer, so packing plenty of layers is crucial. That blanket we recommended earlier may well come in handy, too!
Just because you’ve exchanged a G for a C doesn’t mean you’re protected against the extremities of the weather, so in the day time, do remember to apply sunscreen and pack sunglasses, too. Finally, insect repellent is a must – those citronella candles can only do so much – unless you want your trip ruined by a breakout of bites and buzzing. Yep, we have mosquitos in the UK, believe it or not, amongst other pests. Best be prepared.
LEAVE YOUR SCREENS & WORRIES BEHIND
‘’Look for the bare necessities
The simple bare necessities
Forget about your worries and your strife
I mean the bare necessities
Old Mother Nature’s recipes
That brings the bare necessities of life’’
Hang on a minute; that Baloo might have been onto something. The nation’s screentime has soared during lockdown, and each day feels like we spend it on one screen, only to treat ourselves with a combination of other screens in the evening. Barely a moment passes when we’re simply being mindful and appreciative of the moment.
When we’re finally permitted to travel locally and nationally again, do endeavour to make the most of your camping trip by leaving your screens behind (or at least, in the car) so you can give your eyes and mind a much-needed rest, and instead appreciate the glorious landscapes that the UK has to offer.
We’ll see you in the neighbouring yurt! Pssst, could we borrow some insect repellent?