EAT BREAKFAST AT THE LAUGHING DOG
LESS than an hour by train from London, Brighton is one of the most convenient staycation destinations for the capital’s work-weary urbanites in need of a recharge. Visitors get to indulge in a quintessentially British seaside experience with great nightlife, while the quiet beauty of the South Downs is suitable for those wanting a more peaceful escape.
Staggered along the top of a grassy verge to ensure privacy, the new glamping pods from Experience Freedom, part of the Caravan and Motorhome Club, have everything a traveller could need for a mini-break, without breaking the bank.
Nestled into a hillside overlooking the sea, each of the 10 wood-panelled pods is secluded enough to give you the feeling of being at one with nature, with Brighton just a hop, skip and a jump away.
Each pod is named after a bird, a delightful touch that shows just how much thought has gone into making them blend as seamlessly as possible into the landscape.
Outside, a decking area complete with table, parasol and barbecue means you are perfectly poised to soak up the sun, should the good weather hit.
And if the skies stay typically British and grey, the pods are perfect for cosying up inside, cranking on the heating and listening as rain pitterpatters on the roof.
The interior is simple and uncluttered, making good use of space. A pull-out double bed appears from the wall above a sofa, ready made up and surprisingly comfortable for something that just materialised out of a cupboard.
But it’s the tiny touches that make this more than just a place to bed down in.
Thoughtfully placed bedside lights will ensure no eye strain if you want to tuck in with a good book, while ample storage means there’s little mess and there are no awkwardlyplaced plug points.
Biscuits and muffins are waiting in a mini hamper; ice cool water bottles are already in the fridge; Bluetooth speakers are ready for your various devices, and there is even a good old-fashioned pack of playing cards if you fancy a bit of a digital detox.
Plus, with a spacious private bathroom – including walk-in rainforest-style shower – there will be none of the queuing in flip-flops at communal shower blocks.
And eating-in won’t feel like a chore with a kitchen well-stocked with utensils. If you do decide to venture outside, a decent selection of restaurants and bars is just a 15-minute gentle downhill amble to the marina away.
Alternatively, a 10-minute taxi ride will take you into the heart of the town.
And if you do manage to tear yourself away from your new home from home, here are my suggestions for an amazing Brighton experience:
THE 15-minute stroll from the
EXPERIENCE FREEDOM (experiencefreedom.co.uk),
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from the Caravan and Motorhome Club, provides a range of glamping accommodation across the UK.
■ GLAMPING pods at its Brighton site start from £69 per night (based on a two-night minimum stay) for up to two adults and two children. campsite is worth it for a plate of rosemary cheese on toast at this cool cafe. Think communal tables, long wooden benches and a sofa for lounging. Bandit, the owner’s dog, will amble up and give you a gentle welcome. The open-plan dining area extends into a gift shop, for any last-minute souvenirs.
THIS relaxed seafront eatery offers a good selection of seafood and some extremely tempting pizzas. Decorations follow a nautical theme and water is served from ceramic fish-shaped jugs.
Natural light pours through floor-toceiling windows which invite amazing sea views. Visit brightonbeachclub.com; mains priced from just £10.95.