Go camping (if you can)

Here’s 8 trendy spots should a summer staycation be allowed, says Sarah Marshall

The UK looks set for a bumper year of staycations, if and when lockdown is finally eased.

Once again, camping looks likely to be popular, as travellers seek to explore nature and rediscover a sense of adventure. According to a report by website Cool Camping, treehouse accommodation is going to be a big trend. Unsurprisingly, given booking habits last summer, glampsites are also likely to sell out fast.

The website says almost 50% of enquiries request a hot tub. Other anticipated trends for 2021 include a rise in ‘en-pitch’ accommodations, offering private toilet facilities, plus an increase in pop-up campsites, which were also popular last year.

Keen to book but don’t know where to start? Here are some of the recommended spots that are likely to sell out fast.

Treetop adventures Melin Mabes, Pembrokeshire

The quirky Templar Treehouse has its own private hot tub, plus a slide to take you down to the ground. The property features a combination of rustic charm and first-class amenities, with underfloor heating, a modern bathroom, antique kitchen, suspended loungers and veranda with a view to the river. From £152 per night, sleeping two people.

Nature calling Culdees Castle Estate, Perthshire

This pretty Scottish glampsite offers five woodland cabins, each tucked away within the five-acre forest. The huts have been specially designed to be incorporated into the scenery, and all have hot tubs available. There are plenty of options for walking, cycling, horse riding, fishing and golf nearby. Cabins from £120, sleeping two.

Family nostalgia

Fisherground Campsite, Cumbria

For those looking for a more traditional grass pitch option, Fisherground in Eskdale is a popular choice. It’s a great choice for families, as there is plenty for the kids to enjoy, including campfires, a

paddling pond and the nearby steam railway line, which can transport you to and from the campsite. Pitches from £24 per night.

Glam options

Redwood Valley, Powys This family-run, eco-friendly campsite is set in 25 acres of woodland on the Welsh borders.

The site features two yurts and one woodland cabin styled to give a treehouse feel. The stilted abode provides a view over a brook through floor to ceiling windows. Treetop cabin from £130 per night; yurts from £110.

Fantasy stay Mad Hatters, Cambridgeshire

This fun-packed campsite features all the magic of a ‘mad hatters’ tea party in camping form. Following an Alice in Wonderland theme, pitches are named after characters from the tale. Pitches from £18 per night.

Pitches for a pooch Howgills Hideaway, North Yorkshire

This North Yorkshire site offers incredible mountain views. The site has a relaxed atmosphere with campfires and dogs welcome.

The location is within easy reach of the beautiful Bolton Abbey, while the 80-mile Dales Way is a popular walking route nearby. Pitches from £24 per night.

Cute for couples NightSky Glamping, Gwynedd

This romantic option provides tented glamping with en-suite toilets and private hot tubs. The site is in a location famed for its stunning sunsets and starry nights, while animal lovers will enjoy the on-site alpaca trekking options. There are two beaches within walking distance. Bell tent from £70 per night; safari tent £90.

Desert island escape Ye Olde Swan, Oxfordshire

The site is located on Thames Island, making it feel like an exotic escape. Fortunately, civilisation isn’t too far away. A traditional pub just over the bridge provides pizza and prosecco to the campsite.

Melin Mabes