Go Glamping

If you love the idea of sleeping outdoors but don’t want to give up all your home comforts, then a glamping holiday could be for you. Our friends at the National Trust offer a wide-range of glamping options, including camping pods, safari tents, suspended tree tents and fully accessible glamping cabins. Whether you missed the chance to get away this year or you’re already excited for your next adventure, check out what’s available at their range of locations across the UK.

To help you choose, we’ve rounded up some of our favourites.

Images: Low Wray Campsite, Lake District

This stunning site occupies one of the finest locations for Lake District glamping. Nestled on its western shoreline, it overlooks the still, blue water of Lake Windermere and has a range of glamping options to choose from. 

Providing an attractive, dry and spacious camping space, these comfy pods are all tucked away in special spots dotted around the campsite, not too far away from the facility blocks. With double-glazed windows and French doors, they are designed to cut down the noise made by heavy rain.  For the colder months, there's sheep wool insulation inside the walls for winter warmth, and when it's hot, there's a special foil layer under the roof to help keep summer temperatures down.

These canvas tents look like giant tree decorations but are well hidden in the woods. Climb a ladder to a wooden platform and you’ll find your little nesting box complete with a cosy wood burner and seating which turns into a comfy double and one single bed. Safely suspended in the trees, when your adventurous day is done you'll be able to gaze up through the little sky window and enjoy the stars though the canopy of leaves whilst being rocked gently to sleep by the breeze. A truly memorable and magical experience.

Tucked away in the tranquil woodland area of the campsite, Low Wray’s small collection of safari tents are ideal for families as they offer bags of space to relax both inside and out. With lovely wooden decking, you can survey the rich carpet of bluebells in May or spend hours just listening to the twitter of birds from the comfort of your camp. All safari tents are fully furnished and have a wood burner and a gas cooking stove. Bed linen is supplied, so you can leave your camping gear at home, although you might want to bring a torch to navigate the path to the loo (it all adds to the excitement).

At Low Wray, you’ll also find a fully accessible lake view glamping cabin which can accommodate wheelchair users and their family or friends. Located in a prime spot, you'll enjoy looking out at views of Lake Windermere on a sunny Lake District evening (yes, they do exist!) in maximum comfort. 

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Images: Great Langdale Campsite, Cumbria

With the towering Langdale Pikes looming above it, Great Langdale campsite is a dramatic spot to pitch up for a holiday.  It is ideally located for walkers keen to explore the Lake District, or for those who love cycling, bring your bike and hit the trails. 

As well as grassy pitches and wooden camping pods of various sizes at Great Langdale you’ll also find yurts - perfect for a break when the weather gets chilly.

These cosy yurts are fully furnished so there's no need to bring any camping gear. They contain a woodburning stove with basket of wood, gas camping stove, pots and pans, some lighting, table and chairs and a BBQ. Ideal for families (yurts can comfortably sleep up to 4 people) you'll just need to bring towels and we recommend extra lighting such as a wind-up lantern or extra torch. Other than that - just bring your sense of adventure.

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Image: Castle Ward Caravan Park, County Down

This caravan park is located in a quiet corner of the sprawling Castle Ward estate. From the park, enjoy spectacular views over Strangford Lough and take a stroll along one of the many walking trails that criss-cross the area. Discover ancient woodlands, landscaped gardens and sweeping parkland as you explore these beautiful grounds. 

As well as space for caravans and tents, at Castle Ward you can enjoy a tranquil night under the stars in one of the award winning Standard, Family or Premier camping pods. 

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Image: Waterclose Meadows Campsite, Cambridgeshire

This idyllic campsite in the Ouse valley offers two types of glamping pod. Standard pods have bunk beds, small kitchenette and a seating area which converts into a double bed, or you can upgrade to a luxury pod which comes with an en-suite shower room, a full size double bed, and a decked area. 

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For more National Trust glamping sites visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/holiday-lists/glamping