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Lockdown might be coming to an end, but with so many of us continuing to work from our kitchen tables and international travel still looking quite sketchy, there’s a good chance you’re feeling a bit hemmed in. If that’s the case, a trip to Southcombe Barn in Devon could be the perfect antidote.
Set within the ancient woodland of Dartmoor National Park, this family-run retreat offers quite possibly the wildest glamping experience we’ve come across yet. Forget geodomes, treehouses and shepherd huts – at this glampsite guests sleep in a four-poster bed crafted from fallen eucalyptus trees and plonked right in the middle of a field.
With nothing separating them from the outside world, guests can watch the sun set over moorland, stargaze as they drift off to sleep and wake up to enjoy a breakfast hamper while surrounded by wildflowers.
Of course, the ever-unreliable Great British summertime might have other ideas so there’s also a canopy in case it rains, and even a spacious bell tent you can retreat to if the weather turns really nasty. And there are plenty of creature comforts too, including a private bathroom, a hammock, a BBQ and that 2020 classic, a fire pit.
Elsewhere, guests are welcome to pick fruit in the old apple orchard, take part in a complimentary sound bath experience with owner Vashti or visit the small art gallery in the barn. There are also several lovely country pubs nearby selling local ales and pub grub. Or if you’re in the mood for a quiet night in, the hosts even offer an in-bed dinner delivery option.
It’s miles away from a night spent wrestling with your sleeping bag in a musty old tent, and perhaps the ideal way to reconnect with nature after months shut up indoors. Tempted? Check out the Southcombe Barn website for more information and to book a stay.
Want a little more shelter? Here are five more outdoorsy UK getaways to help you reconnect with nature.
Plus: this incredible outdoor dinner party is coming to a field near you!