Gone are the days that the Hipcamp team would turn up to a tiny, tent-peppered campsite in the corner of a run-down sheep farm. Generation glamping has come of age and today it’s cedar log cabins, shepherd’s huts and treehouses that are drawing the crowds to the UK’s top locations. Remarkably, while Temevale Farm does indeed boast these tip-top glamping offerings, it can also claim to have moved on from the ‘oh so last year’ world of sheep farming too. Welcome, instead, to England’s number one alpaca farm, the ultimate upgrade from hill farm camping of old.
Set within a 12-acre smallholding, Temevale Glamping is a secluded rural site with just two waterside cabins snuggled away among a scattering of woodland in a tranquil corner of the farm. Both look out upon the large trout pond and boast positively dreamy views when the sun is out and the waters sparkle. The log cabin, in particular, seems to almost float upon the waters edge, its covered veranda ending where the pool begins. And with a spectacular new treehouse overlooking the trout pool just launched (featuring fully-equipped kitchen, electricity and beds for up to six guests), Temevale really does boast something for glampers of all persuasions.
Inside, guests will find beds, cooking equipment and an electricity-powered, wood-burning effect stove, while outside there is a designated campfire space for all to use. It goes without saying, all duvets and pillows are stuffed with the finest alpaca fleece from the farm. Even the cedar log cabin and brand new treehouse are insulated with stuff (it's totally hyper allergenic too). You can’t ask for much more local than that now can you?
Though the accommodation on offer is a draw in its own right, perhaps the main attraction of the site is the activities on offer. Along with kayaking, rowing or paddle boarding across the pond you can also get hands-on around the farm, with excellent alpaca trekking sessions taking place every day. This chance to get up close and personal with the inquisitive animals is a must. The sessions take about two hours and involve choosing your own alpaca from the herd and taking it, by halter and lead, on a gentle four mile hill trek around the local area.
It may be a far cry from the camping of old but we certainly don’t mind moving with the times. When you meet the adorable alpacas and feel the super-soft pillows upon your bed, we’re pretty sure you’ll fancy sticking around at Temevale Glamping too!