There’s something about the cold which not only makes us feel super festive, but also makes us want to wrap up and be outside. If you’re the outdoorsy type like us, then you’ll know exactly what we mean. Layer up, light a fire, and break open the mulled wine. Glamping is just as lovely in the winter months!
Glamping in the Winter
Glamping can be a fantastic way to make the most out of holidays and weekend breaks in the colder months of the year. There’s something magical about looking out of a glamping pod window next to nature in a warm pod and venturing outside to sit next to a warm fire in the depths of a chilly evening.
Glamping was invented to bring a new experience to camping. One where the elements wouldn’t impede the fun and adventure of spending time away from the day to day and enjoying the great outdoors any time of year.
With Deer’s Glade there’s a choice of glamping adventure. Firstly we have our Luxury Glamping Pods with either lakeside or woodland views. These feature a kitchenette, shower-room and the bonus of a hot tub. Secondly there are the Mega Pods situated in our ancient woodland with a choice of with or without a wood-fired hot tub. These are furnished with a kitchenette and WC. Then lastly the more traditional Camping Pod which is more of a basic glamping experience with no furnishings but electrics and heat.
How we make our pods warm and cosy…
Glamping is in essence about camping with luxuries and it’s a bonus if you can enjoy the experience anytime 365 days of the year. That’s why glamping pods are now so popular. They’re super toasty warm with the bonus of being amongst nature.
Our glamping pods have been fitted with some serious insulation in the main pod structure along with double glazed windows and doors. The glazing keeps the warmth in but also ensures you can feel part of the outdoors without the requirement for outside layers. No drafts are getting through. The pods are also designed with specialist external weather-proof cladding to protect the structure from rain and wind for exceptional durability.
Electrics to the pod means there’s heating, lights and plug sockets for extras like heated electric blankets - but to be honest, they’re so warm when the heating is on that there’s no need for the extras.
For the outside adventure, pop logs on the fire pit and bring the outdoor chairs closer to the fire’s natural warmth. Fancy warming up even more, then jump in the hot tub. Hot tubs are standard with the Luxury Pods and are available with two of the Mega Pods. If you’ve never been in a hot tub in the winter, it’s well worth a try on a cold winter’s day. If you’re staying in a Luxury Pod don’t forget to take your Deer’s Glade dressing gown out for when you get out.
Our Winter Glamping Tips
To make sure you get the most out of your winter glamping experience, here are a few tips whether staying at Deer’s Glade or at another glamping site.
Take extra layers. Pack thick socks, hats, and gloves, and layer up. Depending on the winter glamping pod you’ve chosen, you’ll either have or need to request bedding, blankets and an electric blanket if you need.
Stock up on food and drink. Bring your food essentials. We have an onsite shop but in the winter we’re a bit more limited on fresh produce. Not all sites will have an onsite shop. There are lots of places close to us for groceries, but just in case the weather turns like 2018’s Beast from the East, make sure you’re well stocked. If it’s that cold, the bonus is you’ll have an extra outdoor fridge.
Remember hot warming drinks. Getting cosy and into the festive spirit if you’re staying in the lead-up to or during the festive season, there’s nothing more festive and warming than a mulled wine, a hot toddy or a heavenly hot chocolate. Here are a few great ideas.
Warming meal ideas are a must too. There is a cooking rack with our fire pit if you’re fancying a winter BBQ, but you can also cook some great pot meals inside on the hob whether it be a hot chilli or spicy jambalaya. Better still, bring your slow clooker for a casserole or stew and dumplings. Perfect after a walk in the countryside or after some fishing at the lake.
Check the weather. Remember your Girl Guide or Scouting days. Always best to be prepared based on what the weather will bring. Waterproofs and wellies for rain. Thick layers for the cold and snow.
Research your glamping location and amenities. When choosing where you glamp it’s important to think about your location and what’s included. If you’re staying with us, we’re in a rural location but still close enough to civilisation and local amenities. Our Luxury Glamping Pods and Mega Pods include WCs, with luxury pods including a full shower room. On a cold night, leaving for a midnight wee might be a little chilly, so check you have the facilities you hope for wherever you stay.
Check what’s included outside. You’ll want a fire pit. These became even more popular with our guests after the pandemic (and during). As well as the obvious of keeping us warm in general, fire pits are great at distributing heat nice and evenly in fairly close proximity. Perfect for socialising if you have friends or family staying at a nearby pod… and let’s not forget the full camping experience of cooking marshmallows. If it’s relaxation instead of socialising you’re after, they also create an ambient feeling of calm and serenity if you’re looking for a little quiet.
If you fancy a winter glamping adventure with us, book online, or call 01263 768633. We look forward to welcoming you!
