Happy glampers set pitch up at Leeds Castle
by Andy Gray
Happy glampers may soon be pitching up at Leeds Castle.
Plans have been submitted to transform a disused vineyard in the
grounds of the historic 12th century venue into a campsite for
those who take a more stylish approach to alfresco living.
The proposal is to construct eight medieval-style tents replete
with four-poster beds and wood-burning stoves.
Made from fire-proof canvas, the tents will stand on timber
decking bases with wayfinding lighting ensuring tourists won’t have
to fumble around in the dark to find their luxury quarters.
And with plans to transform nearby Knights Cottage into a
fully-furnished communal area, toiletry issues will also be taken
care of.
The one-acre campsite will open from April 1 to September 30
with room for 60 car parking spaces, and will create two supervisor
jobs.
Glamping is the one-word description for glamorous
camping.
It stems from campers who craved a ‘back to nature’ experience
without the damp clothes, aching back, leaking tent and primitive
facilities.
The trend has been made even more popular in recent years by
celebrities such as Kate Moss (pictured right) who make use of
luxury tents at the country’s top music festivals including
Glastonbury.
The well-groomed stars of The Only Way is Essex also enjoyed a
glitzy outdoor break in one of the earlier series of the ITV
show.
Sean Gee, co-owner of Glamping Site, said: “Glamping’s
popularity has worked as it combines the beauty of the outdoors
with the elements of luxury people want to enjoy on holiday.
Camping can be luxurious so why rough it?”
Luxury camping spots already exist in Kent, including indulgent
outdoor accommodation at Little Halden Farm in Cranbrook, Yurts at
Yalding, based in Marden, and Bloomsbury in Biddenen.
Prices for a one-night stay at Little Halden start at around
£150.
Jonathan Hilder, who opened the venture with wife Sarah in
August last year, said: “We decided to start offering glamourous
accommodation as another way to generate income.
"The idea is people just bring their clothes and everything else
is here for them. We are lucky to have some stunning views.”
Maidstone council is expected to make a decision on the castle
glampsite later this year.
01/02/13
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