TALL TALES

If you’ve got a head for heights and fancy somewhere a little different to stay, bed down among the branches in a stylish treehouse. Here’s our pick of the UK’s best

SOMERSET

The curved capsules of Cheriton Treehouse twist around a mature oak in this lavish, leafy hideaway. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by a floating bedroom, a huge copper bath and a heated floor, all bathed in plenty of natural light. You’ll almost feel like you’re floating above the trees as you gaze across scenic Blackmore Vale. If you venture out, explore the spectacular gardens at National Trust property Stourhead, or wander around the nearby towns of Frome and Bruton.

HOW TO DO IT: Treehouse for two from £172 per night, with space for two additional children at £30 per child per night. Ages eight and over. canopyandstars.co.uk

NORTH YORKSHIRE

Rufus’s Roost in Husthwaite, half an hour from York, offers views over the Kilburn White Horse, a giant hill figure cut into the ground amid a sycamore forest on the Baxby Manor estate. Built sustainably, this stylish treetop retreat includes feature windows, turrets and a cosy interior. Take the slide down into the Den or venture outside to the bat-monitoring station, where you’ll also find a log-fired hot tub and wood-fired pizza oven. HOW TO DO IT: From April to November, from £1,200 for three-, four- and seven-night stays. coolstays.com/rufus-roost

EAST SUSSEX

Overlooking a pond on the edge of ancient woodland near Wadhurst in the Rother Valley, Hoots Treehouse is a beautifully designed retreat. There’s a wood-burner, king-size bed and mezzanine level with two singles.

HOW TO DO IT: From £204 a night, based on up to two adults and two children (ages six and over) sharing. Two nights minimum. qualityunearthed.co.uk

POWYS

On the edge of Snowdonia National Park, eight miles from the market town of Machynlleth is Living Room Treehouses. Set at heights of up to 30ft, each treehouse has an open-plan design featuring en suite compost toilets, forest showers and a water-powered fridge. Note: there’s no mains electricity.

HOW TO DO IT: From £379 (for two for two nights); max occupancy: five. campsites.co.uk

DEVON

Accessed via a long rope bridge and with views to Dartmoor, the two-bedroom Lookout Treehouse lives up to its name.

The vibe here is indulgent rustic, with reclaimed timber, wood burners, sumptuous furnishings and a whirlpool bath.

HOW TO DO IT: From £180 a night. Suits older children. oneoffplaces.co.uk MARIA PIERI