Top 12 Quirky Glamping Sites
In today’s world of hustle bustle and eat, sleep, work, repeat, sometimes, you just want to escape from the everyday. So, we’ve pulled together a list of truly different places to stay on the Isle of Wight – checkout our top 10 picks for quirky glamping this summer.
1. Toms Eco Lodges
Now in its 5th year, Tom’s Eco Lodges offer boutique glamping at its finest. With a myriad of awards under their belt these guys know how to offer the best glamping experience and now alongside their safari tents, eco pods and cabins are the brand new modulogs that offer all year round glamping accommodation. Located overlooking stunning views of Tennyson Down and the West Wight, the modulogs come fully kitted out with heaters, comfy sofas (which fold out into sofa beds), log burners, dining tables, compact kitchens with all the essentials, two bedrooms, and separate shower room and toilet. They also both have Wi-Fi, and electricity for lighting and plug sockets. While outside each modulog has its own decked area, with seating, BBQ area, and a cosy log-burning hot tub designed for 2 people.
Tom’s Eco Lodges, 01983 758729 www.tomsecolodge.com
2. Windmill Campersite
Putting the Q in Quirky is Windmill Campersite, just 5 minutes from Carisbrooke Castle in the middle of the Island. The site looks out over the Bowcombe valley and offers an eclectic array of accommodation choices. Unique glamping creations including Galahad the Westland Wessex Helicopter, and original James Bond Submarine, various shepherds huts, shacks and more! Enjoy the vibe of the site with the various unique facilities including the double decker bus, fire pits, BBQ's and disco shower!
Windmill Campersite, 07957 572221 www.windmillcampersite.com
3. Kids Love Yurts
Tailor-made for young families, Kids Love Yurts offer themed yurt accommodation with the kids needs put at centre stage. There’s electricity in each yurt, a kitchen and an ensuite shower room with flushing toilet. So, there’s no need to traipse across the field in the middle of the night when a little one needs the loo. Wood burners keep it cosy and the yurts are also fully lined and insulated. The yurt interiors are the key selling point with handmade, themed décor to let young imaginations go wild. There is no Wi-Fi or TV's (although there is electric and hot water) so make sure to leave those electronic devices at home. There is also an outdoor play area which is nature based, including mud kitchen, bug hotel and jumping beams. Located in the middle of the Island you’re perfectly placed to go off and explore all the amazing attraction and activities the Island has to offer.
Kids Love Yurts, 01983 300744, www.kidsloveyurts.co.uk
4. Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat
Located right on the coast in Wootton, Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat is a peaceful oasis and hidden away among the trees are two fairytale treehouses. Nestled in the woodland just up from the beach are two unique round shingled tree houses that offer stunning views, in studio-style accommodation. Perfect for two, everything is perfectly proportioned with a kitchen and dining area, open plan double bed with log burning stove and spacious ensuite. French doors lead out on to a deck area with seating, while the lower deck reveals a private hot tub - just for two - perfect for sharing a bottle of bubbly, surrounded by nature.
Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat, 01983 885220, www.darwinescapes.co.uk/parks/woodside-bay-lodge-retreat/holiday-breaks
5. Into The Woods
Into the Woods offer an eclectic mix of accommodation including treehouses, shepherd’s huts, and even a small 2 man sleeping pod called The Pig, all set in a large private paddock with BBQ area. Both the treehouse and shepherd’s hideaway sleep 2-6 guests – perfect for adventurous families, a rural retreat for couples or a quirky treat for groups of friends. Set right in the heart of nature just outside the country village of Whippingham, near the sea on the north-east coast, the site is surrounded by picturesque farmland and wood. The Treehouse is divided into 2 separate areas - the Living House and the Sleeping House, which are joined by smart decking. With 2 and a half bedrooms and a chic bathroom, it sleeps 6. The Shepherd's Hideaway gives you 4 beautiful Shepherd Huts ALL to yourself. A Master bedroom cabin with ensuite bathroom; and a Bunk cabin also with ensuite; plus, a spacious double Kitchen/Living cabin, all set around a secluded decking area. It sleeps 6 + baby.
Into the Woods, www.isleofwighttreehouse.com
6. Godshill Park Farm and Cottages
Set in secluded surroundings with its own private lake, this shepherds hut is the perfect place for couples, friends and anglers (the lake is well-stocked). The hut has no plumbing or electricity – so it’s a real back to nature experience but guests have full access to their own luxury utility room (electric sockets, kettle etc.) with adjacent power shower (unlimited hot water), basin and fully flushing toilet just a 2-minute walk away. Located just outside of the picturesque village of Godshill with its many eateries, tea rooms and attractions, Godshill Park Farm is set in stunning countryside and at the heart of a network of fantastic footpaths.
Godshill Park Farm, 01983 840781, www.godshillparkfarm.net
7. Poem 25
Poem 25 is a former Hull Lighter Barge that has been lovingly converted into a luxurious floating home using traditional materials while introducing modern design. This is a seriously cool place for families to stay, sleeping up to 9 people, Poem 25 has much more space than you'd imagine. Moored in the picturesqu Bembridge, you're just a short walk from the bustling village centre full of unique cafes, restaurants, pubs and boutique shops. A truly exciting stay for all ages.
8. Retro Staycations
For a completely unique stay, jaw-dropping views and memories to last a lifetime, look no further than Retro Staycations. This iconic glamping retreat is nestled in the idyllic Isle of Wight countryside on a working farm on the outskirts of Ryde, and offers a sleek range of places to stay. Take your pick from authentic American airstreams, camping pitches or Texas, the American School Bus - new to Retro Staycations for 2023. All airstreams and Texas are subtly equipped for a 21st century camper but still keep their vibrant retro vibe.
9. Isle of Wight Buttercup Barn
Located close to the beach and near to Ryde town, Buttercup Barn Retreats offer unusual glamping accommodation in the form of two wooden yurts, and a shepherd’s hut. Both yurts have shower, toilet, hand basin, kitchen, electric heating and their own hot tubs. Outside there is seating and a small BBQ. They are all situated in the countryside - the perfect location for those seeking peace and quiet and dogs are welcome.
Buttercup Barn, 01983 883160
10. Tiny Homes Holidays
Opening summer 2017, Tiny Homes Holidays are brought to you from the very clever guys over at Vintage Vacations (think shiny airstreams and vintage styley renovated Scout Hall & Mission). Set in a smallholding environment just behind Parkhurst Forest they are perfectly located for walking trails, cycle routes and wildlife galore – including the Isle of Wight’s famous red squirrels. Cowes is just a cycle ride away. There are three Tiny Homes; Hygge, Silva and Eilidh, all eco friendly (solar power, composting toilets, wood burning stoves and water recycling). Each is individually designed, and will sleep up to four – either in two king sized beds or four singles. Although tiny they’re bursting with facilities - cooker, hob, fridge with icebox, shower and WC, wood burning stove, white linen and towels, welcome pack and outside deck with outside seating and your own BBQ.
Guests will be able, if they wish, to join in working the mandala gardens, and will be able to help themselves to produce if they do and there will be various workshops and events on offer in the studio that will reflect the ethos of Tiny Homes.
11. Under the Stars
Take your pick from two delightful handcrafted shepherds huts, each fully equipped with heating, a comfy double bed, kitchenette, private en-suite shower and WC. Spend your evening leisurely watching the sunset from the comfort of your private decking, making use of the on-site BBQ for an al fresco feast, or cuddle up in your cabin for a cosy evening indoors. Situated just outside of Newchurch, the surrounding rolling farmland and grazing sheep will have you feeling immersed in nature, with the amenities of the village just moments away.
Under the Stars IOW Glamping, www.underthestarsiowglamping.com
12. Island Bell Tents
Sleep under the stars in your very own chic bell tent, in a location of your choice! Island Bell Tents will provide a luxury break without any hassle, allowing you to make the most of your time on the Isle of Wight. Pick from several scenic campsite recommendations, pick a space of your own, or even opt to have the team move your tent to different locations as you move around exploring the Island! Choose from unfurnished or furnished, with deluxe bedding, fairy lights and lanterns, cosy rugs and more.
Island Bell Tents, www.islandbelltents.co.uk
For more Island inspiration, see our Explore section.
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