Words: Aobh O'Brien-Moody
Bill Bryson, famed travel writer and adopted Englishman, once said: “Britain still has the most reliably beautiful countryside of anywhere in the world.” He wasn’t wrong. Take the time to step outside of the city, to the rolling hills of the Welsh countryside or peaks of the Pennines, and you will see that these words ring true.
“Britain still has the most reliably beautiful countryside of anywhere in the world...”
If you really want to make the most of the British countryside, think beyond average accommodation options and immerse yourself in nature. From tents to treehouses, we've rounded up the best countryside cabins in Britain. So if you’re looking for a romantic, secluded and completely unforgettable weekend away, these are the digs we dig.
The Woodsman’s Treehouse, Dorset
The Woodsman’s Treehouse offers a stylish combination of sustainable wood craftsmanship and luxurious interiors with a playful touch. Highlights include your own sauna and hot tub on the upper spa deck, a revolving woodburner, an open air tree-shower on a huge second deck and a stainless steel slide.
Built using local materials where possible, and with no impact to the surrounding tree – the great oak has grown in response to its environment and as such should be left alone – this is the perfect place to recoup, restore and revive.
Rowan Log Cabin, Northumberland
Rowan, inspired by wilderness cabins in North America, feels just like a place you stumble across on a long expedition, but with artfully incorporated touches of luxury. Case in point: the king-sized bed in the rafters – accessed by a steep iron staircase – is transformed into a cosy nest thanks to thoughtful touches like fine Egyptian cotton sheets, mood lighting and a stargazing dormer window.
The cabin can sleep up to four guests, with bunk beds tucked away in a cool cubbyhole under the mezzanine level. There’s a hot shower and flushing toilet, but for the full frontier experience, take a soak in the outdoor bath out on the deck, looking out at the expanse of greenery and forest in front of you.
The Damson, Elmley Nature Reserve, Kent
So-called due to the bountiful supply of damson trees at Elmley Nature Reserve, The Damson is a cosy escape set amidst 3,300 acres of wonderful wilderness and breathtaking beauty. You'd never guess that it's only an hour from the hustle and bustle of London.
Take advantage of the stunning surroundings and toast marshmallows on your private outdoor firepit or enjoy a soak in the outdoor tub. A galley kitchen offers everything you need to prepare a hearty meal, or you can order a delicious breakfast or supper straight to your hut door.
Tawny Owl Treehouse, Knepp Wildland Safaris, Sussex
From the four-metre high platform of Tawny Owl Treehouse, you look out over the 3,500 acres that are the home of the incredible Knepp Rewilding Project. Keep an eye out for the herds of deer, ponies and huge variety of wild birdlife that careful stewardship has brought back to the surrounding environment.
The treehouse has its own private firepit with BBQ grill – what could be better than toasting marshmallows under the stars and then crawling back to a bedroom in the sky?
Aether’s Tilt, Shropshire
A soak on the hillside overlooking miles of Shropshire with buzzards or the clear night skies hanging above. Sound good? Well the outdoor tub is just part of sinking blissfully into this rustic retreat.
Nestled in a small valley, surrounded by hills and woodland, Aether’s Tilt offers privacy and seclusion, with only the local sheep and wildlife looking on. The cabin is clad in elm and oak, hand-built with great affection and attention, and is a real adventure to make your way to, with miles of snaking single-track roads taking you deep into the beautiful, isolated countryside.
Looking to move a little more permanently? This is what it takes to build a modern country home…
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