Hayton Hideaways

Sunset is a great time to sit on the veranda of your pod at Hayton Hideaways. The view, with the sun setting over distant hills, is fantastic but which of those hills to walk tomorrow? There’s nearby Castle Carrock, Blencathra in the Lake District and Criffel over the border in Scotland; all visible in the panorama. Decisions, decisions.

With such an inspiring view, it’s no wonder that three of the luxury glamping pods at Hayton Hideaways are named after the fells. The fourth is named after another local landmark the Gelt – a nearby wooded river that’s also well worth a walk. This is Cumbria at its best; the green countryside between Hadrian’s Wall and the Lake District. But even without one of Britain’s best-known historic landmarks and its best-loved national park within a 30-minute drive, this place would be worth a visit.

The four luxury glamping pods are situated on a farm with a friendly, traditional pub just a short stroll across fields away. Mention that you’re staying at Hayton Hideaways, Jo and Dan’s place, and you’ll be welcomed like a local yourself. Your hosts, farmer Dan and his wife, are as much a part of village life as the annual May Day Celebrations, Beer Festival, Scarecrow Competition and Open Gardens Event. They’ll let you know if there’s anything going on during your stay and are happy to give you tips on places to visit.

But what of the accommodation itself? Each of the locally crafted, luxury timber pods sleeps up to four and is self-contained with an equipped kitchen, shower room and toilet. Outside, each has a decked veranda, a fire pit and barbecue. Criffel and Blencathra pods have a sunroom so you can enjoy the views in all weathers. If you like your glamping with an emphasis on the glam, choose Blencathra and hire the optional hot tub. Do that, and procrastinating over which fell to walk tomorrow might just take a little longer.