We’re firm believers that time spent in nature together is essential for a healthy and happy relationship. You may remember our collaboration with our friends Project Love, when we invited four couples to Brook House Woods for a weekend of romantic rewilding and the chance to reconnect with nature and each other. We’re delighted to share Project Love’s podcast in which they discuss their own experiences with rewilding their relationships, along with 8 of our picks for a romantic weekend away.
1. Soak in a copper bath looking out at the trees
The Treehouse at Harptree Court looks straight out of a fairytale, with a spectacular balcony suspended above a beautiful oak tree and a big copper bathtub fit for a queen (or king). In summer, dine al fresco together and listen to birdsong; on chillier days stoke the log burner and play board games by the fire.
2. Take in countryside views from a charming wagon
A BBQ, cosy interior and wood-fired hot tub overlooking panoramic views of the Herefordshire hills make Stargazers Wagon the perfect romantic retreat. A trip here wouldn’t be complete without the amazing stargazing from which the space gets its name, and with a total lack of light pollution it’s certainly a stunning experience.
3. Hop in a boat and row to your private hot tub on its own island
The Raft at Chigborough has touches of the simple life, and is the perfect spot to switch off together and appreciate the beautiful natural surroundings. On warm days, cooking outdoors is a must here – have a BBQ with delicious local produce and dine al fresco while you watch the birdlife. Work off dinner with a gentle row to the hot tub on its own island, and soak under the stars.
4. Wake up to views of the Mendips and a field of alpacas
Uplands Treehouse is a wonderful oasis of calm just a short hop from Bristol. A compact kitchen provides everything you’ll need for making a romantic meal, but if cooking’s not on the menu then the highly-acclaimed Ethicurean is a 20-minute walk away, and the charming village of Wrington a little further. Evenings are best spent on your balcony above the trees, sipping something chilled as you watch the alpacas in the neighbouring field.
5. Enjoy breathtaking Cornish sunsets from a peaceful cabin by the South West Coastal Path
Quiet of Stars is the kind of place that feels like home the minute you step inside. Beautiful art adorns the walls and the window seat is the perfect spot to sip wine together while the sun filters in from outside. We recommend spending the day walking the coastal path or taking a trip to St. Ives, before returning to your tranquil garden to roast marshmallows on the fire and swing on the hammock.
6. Stay in a raised cabin with far-reaching views of the Wye Valley
The aptly named Up^ cabin sits 20 steps above the ground, and enjoys incredible views over the Wye Valley. There’s a telescope for stargazing on clear nights, and an outdoor bath to soak in after a day exploring the local area. Herbs can be picked from the growing wall to rustle up a delicious meal from scratch, which we recommend enjoying out on your private balcony at sunset.
7. Dive into your own private lake in ancient Dorset woodland
Buck’s Coppice is perfect for couples – set on a beautiful private lake in the woods, and the only visitors you might have are the resident deer or otters. The Jurassic Coast and Seatown are nearby for beach walks, or you can simply stay at the cabin and wild swim in the lake.
8. Cook a feast in the pizza oven and enjoy walks on a quiet Scottish beach
High Lodge is a romantic off-grid bothy set on a quiet Scottish estate by the sea, and if you’re lucky you might even have the nearby beach all to yourself. Try your hand at fishing or kayaking, then return to your cosy lodge to fire up the pizza oven for dinner. On chillier days, curl up together on the sofa and listen to the gentle crackle of the log-burner.
A Canopy & Stars holiday is the perfect way to make celebrating a special occasion that bit more adventurous – whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or honeymoon. You can sip champagne from a wood-fired hot tub on its own mini island, gaze at sparkling sea views from your secret garden or go snorkelling in an Italian cove. We’ve also launched Club Together Gift Cards, allowing multiple people to contribute to a unique present to remember. These can be used to book any of our 700+ amazing spaces, from treehouses and cabins to buses and beehives.
For some gifting inspiration, we’ve rounded up our favourite places to celebrate.
For Father’s Day
1. For the dad who has everything
As the name suggests, The Saw Mill occupies the footprint of the Glen Dye Estate’s old sawmill. What no name could possibly suggest is the incredible blend of peace and adventure packed into the private clearing in the woods. You’ll wake to birdsong and the rippling of the old mill stream from the 1950s original Safari Caravan, then make your way to the Forester’s Seed Store cabin, your lounge and kitchen, itself a lovingly-restored 20s building.
2. Soak in a whiskey barrel tub
Mother Earth roundhouse was concocted by slapping together mud cakes from the very earth on which it stands and cramming it with some unloved bits and pieces and chunky woodwork – perfect for adventurous dads. Sheepskins and a wood burner warm up chilly mornings so you can get up early to watch the sun rise through the glass portal in the roof (or stay up late to see a sky full of stars!). Spend afternoons getting your knees dirty in the fields and at sundown take it in turns to jump in the whiskey barrel tub before making supper on your 1950s hob under the eaves.
For treating Mum
3. Upgrade your Sunday lunch
Forget the typical Sunday pub lunch; how about a BBQ looking out to sea followed by a relax in the wood burning sauna instead? Jake's Place is just behind a vegetable patch and concealed by shrubs and chunky wooden fences. You’ll have your own deck to sit out on and a campfire spot at the bottom of the garden, where Mum can take in the beautiful view across the fields to the sea and lighthouse whilst kids enjoy the outdoor games.
4. A floral find
Between Hay and Hereford, Midland Farm quietly blossoms. The gorgeous gardens that surround The Greedy Gander have been featured on the cover of the Royal Horticultural Society magazine. A small plant nursery, the sheep and free-range chickens together bring Midland Farm to life, so you won't feel lonely at this lovely spot.
For all other occasions
5. A milestone birthday with the whole gang
Gather your friends round the campfire at The Vintage Vardos – it's perfect for a get-together in the fresh air, and can be fully catered, with activities such as woodland yoga arranged during your stay. You're within easy reach of wonderful day walks, great pubs, the Tarka Trail cycle path, Exmoor National Park and some of the best beaches in Britain. Children (and anyone with an imagination!) will love it here. Try the rope swing over the stream!
6. A party the kids will never forget
On the border of Devon and Cornwall, kids will never be short of new friends at Loveland Farm. The Farm is home to chickens, pigs and ducks and you’ll even get to meet a pair of resident Asian Water buffaloes, Bella and Shaggy. Hartland Pod is a super strong stainless steel skeleton covered in a lightweight shell, with enough space inside to swallow up to six people. Beneath the bubble, there’s a tipi with a double bed inside, a mezzanine level with another double, another room with a single bed and a dining table overlooking other green and white pods nestled in amongst the wildlife.
7. Spend your anniversary in a love nest
The wonderfully chic Lime Treehouse sits within the branches of a beautiful lime tree, growing just behind the medieval Manor house on the edge of the charming village of Little Comberton. Step out onto the oak deck for a dip in your private hot tub – we recommend a long evening soak when you can sit with glass of wine in hand and watch the sun go down over Bredon Hill. Before you stay there all night though, don’t forget that there’s the double-ended bath to try out as well, fitted neatly behind your huge, fur-strewn bed.
8. Cheers your engagement
The Danish Cabin is an ingenious piece of engineering, a surprising space to live in and an incredible place to explore. The cabin itself is a neat arrangement of folding walls that slide up to let the outdoors in or come down to shelter when the day’s adventure is over. Now you may have noticed that there appears to be a bar and we’d like to clear up the most pressing question: Yes. It does come with beer. There’s a small supply included in your booking.
We’ve made it easier to plan your next big occasion with our various collections – have a look at our Honeymoon Collection for relaxing after the big day, or our Blow the Budget Collection for that extra special holiday to remember. More places for every occasion can be found on our Inspire Me page.
At Canopy & Stars, we’re strong believers that holidays are better shared with your best friend. That’s why have almost 300 dog-friendly spaces throughout the UK and Europe. There’s places with walks (read: walkies) straight from the door, lakeside cabins if you fancy making a splash, and even a ‘Blow the Budget’ collection for more pampered pooches. We could go on, but for now we’ve picked out ten dog-friendly experiences that are sure to get tails wagging.
1. Explore one of the most picturesque coastal paths in the UK
St Aiden Hut is one of three amazing off-grid cabins situated on the St Oswald’s Way coastal path in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You’re a mere stick’s throw from the beach, and a ten-minute walk from the picturesque town of Alnmouth with its array of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants.
2. Round up the pups and stay on a family-friendly farm
Little Links is one of two charming yurts set within beautiful farmland on the border of Devon and Cornwall. It’s an animal lover’s dream, being host to ponies, chickens and rare breed Longwool sheep. Nearby Lydford offers one of Britain’s best walks, and is perfect for letting canine (and human) adventurers off the lead. Afterwards, tired limbs will appreciate a long soak in the wood-fired hot tub before drying off in front of the log burner.
3. Bring the whole pack and stay among the trees
As a team of dog lovers, we know how difficult it can be to stop at just one. Copse Camp is one of ten dog-friendly treehouses in our collection, with the added bonus that up to three dogs are welcome. Onsite, there’s more than 300 acres for you to explore, or you can venture a little further afield to the village of Llangollen for picturesque walks and country pubs.
4. Go for walkies straight from your door
Caban Crwn makes a wonderful base for adventuring with your four-legged friend. Whether you’re a keen hiker, biker or walker, this cosy cabin is set within miles of rolling countryside waiting to be explored. After an action-packed day, you can look forward to curling up together in front of the wood-burner or firepit.
5. Hire out a recording studio and howl your favourite songs
Grab up to eight bandmates plus two dogs and make some music at this spacious cabin in the Devon countryside. Candyland Studios is perfect for a weekend away catching up with friends, and comes complete with its own recording studio that can be hired for your stay. If you aren’t feeling like a singsong, head to the coast at nearby Bude or go for a hike and seek out some beautiful scenery.
6. Get your paws on some special welcome treats
The owners at Turners Woodland Suite have gone the extra mile to make sure four-legged guests feel just as welcome as their human companions. On arrival, you’ll find a ‘doggy box’ packed to the brim with creature comforts – including a towel, blanket, food bowls, treats, toys and spare leads. Don’t worry though, people are also well catered for, and there will always be complimentary wine, cheese and chutney waiting for you in your cosy hut.
7. Bring your favourite third wheel and stay in a romantic hobbit hut
We’re firm believers in rewilding your relationship and spending quality time with a loved one. No-one likes a third-wheel, but when it’s got four legs, a wagging tail and looks at you with those puppy dog eyes, how can you resist? Luckily, plenty of our most romantic spaces also happen to be dog-friendly, so you can give the dog-sitter the night off. It doesn’t get much more romantic than the cosy Brook House Hobbit Hut. It’s even got its own private fire pit, so grab a guitar and have your favourite cheesy love songs at the ready.
8. Go for a dip in Dartmoor
Carpenter Cabin is the perfect dog-friendly hideaway, and its location makes it perfect for wild swimming enthusiasts. Nearby Dartmoor offers plenty of wild swimming spots, so you and your dog can enjoy a refreshing dip in a lake, river or even a waterfall. The owners of Carpenter Cabin are keen wild swimmers themselves, and are happy to share their top swim spots with guests.
9. Stay in a seaside hideaway and walk to the pub from your doorstep
There’s nothing better than topping off a long dog walk with a visit to the pub to refuel and reflect on the day’s adventures. Halzephron Cabin is the perfect base for exploring miles of Cornish beaches, with the added advantage of plenty of dog-friendly pubs dotted all around. Whether you fancy a long coastal walk to Porthleven or a five-minute stroll to the local, you can count on being well fed and watered. It’s even rumoured that the owners of the Halzephron Inn love dogs so much that each one receives a personal welcome and a doggy biscuit!
10. Explore the Lake District from this Cumbrian cabin with its own hot tub
The Bothy at High Barn is a romantic cabin nestled in the woods in Cumbria, and offers more outdoor activities from the doorstep than you can shake a stick at. Head to the nearby Lake District for some of the UK’s most picturesque walking and hiking routes at Blencathra, or Derwentwater for some incredible open water swimming.
If you need inspiration for your next dog-friendly getaway, our Dog Friendly Collection is a great place to start. To read more about the benefits a Canopy & Stars holiday can bring for you and your dog, visit our A Life More page and read Milo’s story.
We think next year should be all about trying new things; from making your first campfire meal to staying in a treehouse or jumping into that freezing cold lake. We’ve picked out 10 amazing new experiences for 2019, but be quick as these spaces tend to disappear faster than the summer sun!
1. Relax in your very own woodland sauna
The Woodman’s Treehouse is a woodland utopia that’s full of hidden secrets and surprises. From the giant outdoor shower to the copper bathtub, the woodfire pizza oven and the slide, you certainly won’t be disappointed here. After a busy day of wood-working and hiking, you can retreat up to your rooftop sauna and relax before collapsing on the king sized bed.
2. Stargaze straight from your bed in the Kielder Forest
George Clarke’s very own treehouse project, Sky Den, is a haven of creativity and quirkiness. In an original move, this treehouse is composed of three different shapes that each blend together the best of outdoors and indoors. The real showstopper though is the retractable roof, which, when open, gives an unobstructed view of the gold tier Northumberland Dark Skies.
3. Feel like a child again and swing from the trees!
Living Room Treehouses are deep in the heart of the Welsh Mountains, in a wooded secret valley. After a short hike up through the woods you'll spy a dramatic spiral staircase leading up to the main living space. In one of the nearby trees is a homemade swing, perfect for letting loose and unleashing your inner wild child.
4. Explore the Devon coastline from your private beach
Carswell Beach Hut is a real hidden gem, found in a forgotten cove on the south coast of Devon. The gentle wash of the surf fills the cove as you light the BBQ and laze in the wood-fired hot tub. You’ll feel miles away from anything as you lie in the hammock chairs after a day of exploring rock pools and swimming in the sea.
5. Get creative and record your own song
If rock n’ roll is on your agenda for the new year, grab seven friends and head to Candyland Studios. With a baby grand piano in the living room and ample guitars hanging up all around, you can turn the cabin into live rooms. Once you’ve practiced, head to the recording studio to record your masterpiece as a full band, solo or an orchestra.
6. Be a llama farmer for the weekend
Sergeant Troy is a beautifully decked out shepherd’s hut that sits in its own private woodland clearing. There’s a direct view of the llama paddocks so you can watch them gambol as you sip your breakfast tea, and you can become a llama farmer for the weekend if you wish! Book a wander in their company, or give them a snack from the jar of goat food in your hut.
7. Wake up to sunrise in the middle of a nature reserve
Elmley is the only National Nature Reserve in England in which you can spend the night. So naturally, the only thing to do each morning is to throw open those curtains, make yourself a cup of tea and watch the sunrise from under your cosy covers. If you’re lucky, you might even spot wild rabbits and deer frolicking in the morning mist!
8. Catch dinner off your own lake
Fancy yourself a fisher? At Ditchling Cabin, you’re in a National Park in the middle of rural Sussex with your very own lake to cast off into. There’s trout to catch, and when you do, fire up the barbie on deck and enjoy the best meal of your life as you watch the sun go down. Blissful.
9. Share a romantic bath with your loved one
Whilst sharing a bath is romantic and all that, we all know we’d really prefer our own bath tub to indulge in! At The Old Piggery, there are two outdoor bath tubs with beautiful views out over the Devon countryside. So both you and your loved one can relax next to one another, but the only thing you’ll be sharing is that bottle of wine.
10. Live like a human-sized bee!
We bet you never thought living like a bee would make your bucket list. But trust us, it’s great fun. At Humble Bee, you can sip champagne from the outdoor bath, find all the thick furs you could ever want and relax in the king-sized bed that’s suspended in the ceiling. You’ll love it when the dark wood inside combines with light from the honeycombe feature wall, giving the hive a sultry, honeyed glow.
To make next year your best one yet, check out our amazing Treehouse Collection and One of a Kind Spaces. Or for more wild-inspiration, we’ve got everything you need for a weekend of stargazing and hot tubs.
Ah, autumn. That glorious period when sunny days meet campfire nights. When there’s still some summer warmth, but you’ve got an excuse to dig out that knitted sweater, sip on a hot chocolate and sit around a crackling fire. Here are 7 reasons autumn was made for the outdoors.
1. The sun’s still got his hat on. On average, September is actually warmer than April and June across the UK. There’s also less rain in October than either July or August!
2. It’s quieter and there’s more availability. With the school’s back and the high season drawing to a close, your favourite place may finally have some availability! Some people just aren’t into autumn glamping (can you believe it?), so while you’re snuggled up in your toasty hideaway, you know there won’t be many others around.
3.Swap lakes for hot tubs - heatwaves often mean it’s too hot for the bubbling tub in summer, but with Autumn’s cooler nights it will seem more appealing than ever. Made even better with epic views out across the country and a drink in hand. See all our best hot tubs to sink into.
4. Autumnal sunsets are utterly stunning. As the explosion of reds, oranges and yellows dance across the skies - grab yourself some logs, open up a bag of marshmallows and relax into the night.
5. Crisp, cool nights make the perfect conditions for stargazing. You won’t need any evening activities, just that blanket, and an astrology chart. As the night draws in, those beautiful twinkly lights will come out to play.
6. Autumn is the best time to go foraging in the woods. Search out a seasonal feast of mushrooms, chestnuts, rosehips or even sloe berries. Take them home and get that sloe gin on the go!
7. You’ve got an excuse to stay in bed. So you’re both a bit burnt out from summer and you want some time to unwind together. Autumn still has beautiful, sunny days perfect for hikes, but the cooler nights mean you can retreat to your cosy hideaway, build a fire and get lost amongst the thick rugs and furs.
If you’re looking to get away this autumn, we’ve got all the tips from Project Love on how to #rewildyourrelationship. Read, relax, get creative - autumn is the ideal time to get away from the bustle of daily life and get lost amongst nature. For more inspiration, The Cosy Collection is a perfect bundle of snuggle spots, as are our Great for Two spaces.
With today being the powerful summer solstice, we thought we’d ask our in-house astrologer to look ahead at the next few months and give us all some advice on how best to get outdoors this Summer. She’s checked the charts and tracked the planets, so find your sign and see what an adventure in nature could bring you.
However active and exuberant you normally are, Mars will make you put the brakes on this summer. As the astrological ruler of your sign, its retrograde motion is a force to be reckoned with, or maybe just surrendered to. Try Curlews Cabin, with no one around finding a place to sit back and relax is easier than ever.
As Saturn enters Capricorn, you may feel your natural adventurous side a little suppressed. If you’re not feeling bullish enough for climbing mountains or chasing Spaniards through towns, then perhaps a slightly more comfortable form of adventure is better for you. Harptree Court might not be a challenge, but spoiling yourself at this treetop hideout is an adventure anyone would be happy to take on.
Times have been tough for you recently, but while Saturn might be draining the Taurians, it means it’s moving out of your sign and taking the challenges it brings with it. It’s time to let yourself relax into the simple fun that you’ve been missing for so long. Majestic Bus is a place so obviously full of colour and joy that it is perfect for you right now. Canoe, cycle, play games, jump in the hot tub and revel in changing influences.
This summer might bring some friction in your relationships, thanks to the beginning of Saturn’s transition through your sign. Dealing with that tension, rather than avoiding it, will always be rewarded, so tackle it head on with a gathering of family or friends. Paradise Pines is a cabin surrounded by woodland peace, perfect for six of those closest to you to connect without anyone getting crabby.
Old habits die hard, but your tendency to excess in your private life will be reined in by Saturn, even as Uranus enters your sign to shake up your career opportunities. Its lightning-fast, revolutionary influence might just inspire you to try something radical. Ynys Affalon is a striking, unusual space to explore some new ideas and get a fresh perspective.
The expansive Jupiter in Scorpio will bring your ever-busy analytical mind extra depth and intuition. Saturn’s presence in Capricorn might dampen your creative spirit, but why not explore your new understanding with an artistic project? Ben Ledi offers workshops on site; such as batik, painting and weaving. Perfect for breaking artistic ground.
As Uranus enters Taurus you’ll gain a deeper sense of connection with those close to you and experience true intimacy in your personal interactions. This is a time for being alone with someone important to you, exploring and developing your relationship. With a big four post bed and a cosy vibe, this iron-age round house is perfect for inspiring greater understanding and bringing you both together.
Life will be good for you this year as Jupiter, the herald of personal success and recognition, cruises through your sign. Although Saturn might put a discordant note on your romantic relationships, it’s a great time to get some friends together and celebrate your good fortune. The Hatch is a cabin with character, charm and an air of festivity that everyone can share in.
At the beginning of July, Jupiter ends it retrograde loop, letting you breathe a little easier and regain lost confidence in your intuitions. Take some time to relax, get some fresh air and be ready for the boost of the powerful planet entering your sign in Autumn. La Cabane de Bot Conan is the ideal family cabin by the beach where you can take a deep breath and come home feeling fully restored
Rival influences from Jupiter, Uranus and your ruler Saturn will give expansive depth to both your inner and outer communication, while also sparking your adventurous side and giving you the urge to spice up your summer with something spontaneous. With shorter stays available throughout August, the Oyster Catcher is a great place to let your instincts run wild.
Saturn challenges the illusions you may subconsciously hold about your life, giving you the chance to look inward and reflect. While you wait for the refreshing influence of Uranus to arrive, take a break and find a quiet spot to reconsider some of your basic assumptions. The Forest Tipi offers great therapy and wellbeing treatments, plus the peace of the forest are a perfect setting for calm contemplation.
Embrace the growing spirit of adventure and the desire to explore that Jupiter in Scorpio will elicit in you. Saturn’s gloomy presence might try to slow you down, but don’t be discouraged, you’ll find a way to shine if you take a chance on a new adventure. With Hunky Dory, you can take to the water and learn to pilot a barge down the canals of the south west
If you’re after more summer inspiration head over to our #rewildyoursummer page where you can find everything from wild swimming spots, to epic treehouses and best stargazing spaces. Whilst you’re having your wildest summer ever, remember to take some photos and enter them into our #rewildyoursummer competition to win £500 towards your next stay with us!
The wild gallery - our top #rewildyoursummer shots
This summer, we want to see you switch off, unwind and get wild in the great outdoors. Whether it’s dancing under the stars, singing by the campfire, swinging from the trees or diving into the lake, share a photo of your happiest summer self this year for a chance to win £500 towards your next Canopy & Stars holiday. All you need to do is tag @canopyandstars and #rewildyoursummer in your Instagram shots. If you’re in need of some inspiration, we’ve listed ten of our favourite summer shots from previous years below. Happy snapping!
1. @mylittlecountrylife at Old Winchester, Hampshire
2. @alicethomso at The Nancy Blackett, Somerset
3. @hanbullivant at Little Owl, Kent
4. @ficknoster at Caban Crwn, Powys, Wales
5. @haarkon at The Woodman’s Treehouse, Dorset
6. @_charlieswift at Humboldt, Herefordshire
7. @bellawhispers at The Sleepout, Powys, Wales
8. @finding_ at Goji, Herefordshire
9. Sapperton Yurt, Gloucestershire
10. @heatheryounguk at Boundary, Hampshire
If you’re ready to experience your wildest summer yet, head over to our rewild your summer page where you’ll find everything from wild swimming to stargazing and wild walks inspiration, plus our one of a kind, cosiest cabins and epic treehouses collections. See you out there!
This summer, we’re on a mission to #rewildyourchild. Whether it’s getting mucky in the mud, building dens, jumping in the lake or swinging from the trees - kids love being outside. We hosted an (un)focused group in the woods, and asked kids to open up about their love for wild time. ‘I love it because you get fresh air’, Harry shouted. ‘You can learn how to build a fire’ and ‘there’s lots of trees and grass and flowers’, the others followed. We asked the kids to help choose our new family collection, and these fabulous spaces came out in their top ten.
1) UFO, Norbotten, Sweden
There’s no surprise that this UFO shaped treehouse was a popular choice. Hidden amongst the trees in a remote Swedish woodland, the UFO is a seriously unique experience. You can relax in the on site sauna, make wood-fired pizzas and admire the Northern Lights. It was Pearl’s firm favourite, ”because it looks like a spaceship and you can look at the stars’.
2) Belle, Gloucestershire
It’s not all about the weird and wonderful, our (un)focused group loved Belle the bell tent for its cosy interiors, hammocks and resident farm animals. Harry said, ‘you wouldn’t normally go in a place like that because you’re in a normal house. And it looks quite nice with the deck chairs and bunting’.
3) Treetops Treehouse, Devon
Treetops is a huge, multi-level treehouse within the branches of a 250 year old oak tree. Inside, a huge copper bath tub, criss-cross bunk beds, secret cubby holes and bean bags are all waiting to be enjoyed. The ‘giant treehouse’ was Joah’s favourite, ‘because you could go fishing in the lake and there’s lots of comfortable places in there’.
4) Sky Den, Northumberland
A retractable roof, surrounding wildlife, a river running below and a telescope to watch the stars. What’s not to love about Sky Den? This is George Clarke’s very own dream project and is a great one for all the family. Rueben liked it, ‘because it doesn’t have a roof, so in a way you’re indoors but also like outdoors. So the winds blowing on your face’.
5) Jake’s Place, Devon
Summer days drift by taking in the countryside or playing around in owner Nick’s workshop, where you can enjoy book painting, clay courses and wood working. Kids will love the bunk beds too, Harry even chose Jake’s Place ‘because I’d like to sleep in a bed that’s made from a tree’.
6) The Shire House, Yorkshire
Jake loved The Shire House’s circular doors and windows, plus the vibrantly colourful interiors. The whole place has a playful soul, plus there’s farm animals to feed on site and plenty of space to scream, shout and let it all out. Inside, kids can get lost around each enchanting corner and time will fly by playing hide and seek all together’.
7) Netherby Treehouse, Cumbria
Sol liked Netherby Treehouse ‘because it’s big and it’s cool’, and that it certainly is. Netherby Treehouse is the treetop hideout of childhood dreams, where kids can climb up to their beds in the mezzanine, plus there’s a whole host of board games to play and a hot tub bubbling away.
8) Candyland Studios, Devon
Harry loved his visit to Candyland, especially as he ‘played hide and seek in the woods and the house!’. From guitars on the walls, to the baby grand piano and ukuleles, there’s something to wow you around every corner. Once you’ve practiced playing, you can all head to the recording studio or out to the campfire for a good, whole-hearted sing along.
9) Living Room Treehouses, Powys, Wales
From the spiral staircase to the rope bridge entrance and hanging tree swings, these treehouses are for letting your hair down and getting back to the wild. Rueben loved that ‘you can play around in the woods, and play hide and seek because it’s so big!’. Adults can enjoy only the sounds of nature and getting off grid, whilst kids can run (and swing) until their hearts content.
10) The Big Green Bus, Sussex
What could be more fun than a huge, green bus sitting in the middle of the forest? With its original features still in tact, kids can play at being the driver and pretend to print tickets. The interiors are as colourful as the outside, and after an energetic day exploring the woods, you can all huddle by the campfire or stargaze from the hot tub.
The same expert panel will be deciding the winner of our Draw your Dream Holiday competition. Enter your child's design of a weird and imaginative space to win a £250 Canopy & Stars Gift Card. For more summer inspiration, read our 5 simple activities to #rewildyourchild this summer or head over to our family collections, where you’ll find a big selection of brilliantly fun spaces.
Five simple activities to #rewildyourchild this summer
There is a growing understanding that children need more outside time in their lives in order to thrive. However, with a number of barriers such as technology, lack of space and busy schedules getting in the way, this is becoming more difficult to achieve. The Wild Network’s Richard Louv was certainly right when he said, ‘the more high-tech our lives become, the more nature we need’. Wild time is brilliant for children - it’s fun, free and most importantly, it’s good for them both mentally and physically. That’s why we’re on a mission to #rewildyourchild this summer, starting with these five simple activities.
1) Get Den Building
Most children love getting their hands grubby, and den building is just one simple activity that could keep your little ones busy for hours. It’s something you can do on a walk, in the woods or even just in the garden. Start by hunting around for a collection of large logs, sticks and leaves to help kick start the den building. Then, if you and your brood fancy, add in some sheets and blankets to your set up and if the weather’s good, have a mini camp out in the garden!
2) Introduce outdoor games
Peel the kids away from the TV and get them outdoors with some great outdoor games. These aren’t just fun, but encourage mental stimulation and creative imagination. Eagle Eyes is a great variation on hide and seek and so simple to play. We’ve snatched these rules from our friends over at The Wild Network:
1. One person is the eagle, who stays at the base and everyone else are the rabbits. They have to make it out of hiding and get as close as possible to the nest without being seen by the eagle.
2. To begin, the eagle shouts, ‘Eagle eyes are closing for 30 seconds". The mice go and hide. Then the eagle shouts, "Eagle eyes are opening" and then scans the park for the rabbits. If the eagle can see rabbits they are out and must return to the nest. When the eagle closes its eyes again, the rabbits must move, looking for the next 'safe' spot.
3. The eagle wins if it catches all the rabbits before they make it to the nest. The rabbits who make it to the nest without being spotted win.
3) Have a nature treasure hunt
This is a fun activity to do whether you’re out in the woods, playing in the park or enjoying the sunshine in the garden. Split into pairs and go on a search through the woodland and wilderness for secret spots. These could be amongst the flowers, in a tree, under a rock, or even down a hole. Gather some sticks and twigs and use them as flags, then lay the rest of the twigs out and make a path for the other teams to follow and find.
4) Make walking fun again!
To some children, the idea of walking can resonate in a series of grunts and moans. So, why not make it fun? We love this idea from The Wild Network - on your walk, ask your child to collect a big stick and encourage them to keep it as a way of recording their summer. On walks, collect little bits like flowers, leaves, feathers and attach them to the stick as a memory. Keep collecting over the months and at the end of summer, your stick will have a story to tell!
5) Take mealtimes outside
When the sun’s shining, why not spend most of your days outside? Preparing a picnic for the garden or heading out to dine in the nearest meadow can feel like a real micro adventure in itself. In the evening, setting off for the beach and sitting outside for a barbecue is another great way to get outdoors and best yet, it will create long lasting summer memories for all the family.
We’ve been working closely with The Wild Network to get kids outdoors and to #rewildyourchild this summer. For more wild time inspiration, head over to our Family page and see what happened when we let kids choose our newest collection.
At Canopy & Stars HQ you can always tell when a new space has joined the collection as a choir of ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ usually resonate simultaneously across the office. Whether it’s a stylish cabin overlooking its very own private lake, a high up eco retreat in the Portugese sun or a safari tent with dolphins for neighbours, we’re sure these new spaces are going to get your feet itching.
Cheriton Treehouse, Somerset
More tree mansion than treehouse, the curved capsules of Cheriton treehouse twine around a mature oak in a multileveled miracle of craftsmanship and comfort. Bathe in the huge copper tub with the countryside spread out below before padding across the heated floor to the handcrafted bed. Watch dawn break over Blackmore Vale from the windows and huge skylight or spot deer from one of the two viewing decks.
Bucks Coppice, Dorset
Ramble through ancient woods on the miles of the Jubilee Trail that crosses at the top of the country lane, then come home to lie on the suntrap deck and slide into the lake whenever you get too hot. The only visitors to this secluded spot, hidden in the depths of Dorset countryside, are a huge array of bird life, maybe deer, wild boar and if you're super lucky, visiting otters. The off-grid space draws its water from the lake with solar power and gas taking care of lighting, cooking and water heating.
Brownscombe and Brownscombe Cabin, Devon
Brownscombe offers you just about anything you could wish for from a country break. Couples can soak in the big copper bath with the wall folded back to look out at the valley, eat out on the deck watching the stars and wake to roe deer grazing in the misty morning fields. Kids can leap out of the bunks and head off to help Kate with her morning rounds on the farm, gathering eggs and feeding the pigs, sheep, chicken and ducks. Even in winter, glass doors and the covering on the deck mean never losing touch with the countryside all round you.
The Den at Paradise Pines, Devon
Hidden deep in a 65 acre forest is The Den, a stylish cabin design with both comfort and the environment considered in equal measure. You’ll find a moss roof, photovoltalic cells and water straight from the borehole to keep the impact low. Inside, there’s ample space for all the gang. With a big open plan living space to cook or play games, plus 3 spacious bedrooms. After a long day hiking through the woods or trying to find the resident white deer, relax in the copper roll top bath tub or in the rocking chairs that have been perfectly placed for an evening star-gazing.
The Stripy Bothy, Monmouthshire
Find your very own slice of the beautiful Usk Valley in this very colourful countryside bothy. Craig has indulged in his love of interior design, using big beautiful colours, oriental silks, origami cranes and pottery from partner Charles’ studio. The natural beauty hasn’t been ignored either, with a whole wall folding back to give you countryside views even from the bed. Days drift by, sitting out by the pond and looking over the field of sheep and chickens. Or canoeing down the Wye and trampling through the Forest of Dean. At night, you can barbecue amongst rural bliss, looking out at the sunset and forgetting about modern life.
The Secret Garden, Hertfordshire
The Secret Garden may only be 40 minutes away from London, but it is still an oasis of country calm. Located on a smallholding just south of Cambridge, there’s lots of room to roam about and you can spend every minute of your day outdoors if you’d like. Get herbs for dinner in the garden, read your book amongst the wildflower meadow and cook all your meals in the outdoor kitchen. In the evening, warm up in front of the firepit and hop in the hot tub, stare up at the starry skies and enjoy the relaxation of being completely off grid.
Paradiso Escondido, Alentejo, Portugal
What could be better than sitting on deck, high up in a stilt bungalow amongst the hills of the Alentejo. The Paraiso Escondidio site consists of two bungalows, Cidreira and Camomila, as well as an eco spa and pool plus acres of beautiful countryside. Wake yourself up with morning yoga in the valley sunrise, eat breakfast from the organic garden, then head off for a beach trip or a walk along the beautiful Rota Vicentina.
Wensleydale Experience, Yorkshire
In the hills on the eastern edge of the Yorkshire Dales sit four cosy yurts on a family-run farm. There are activities for all members of the family, from feeding the resident lamas and pigs to hiking the nearby Dales and playing in waterfalls. After a busy day, sit back and relax to a slower pace of life with a barbecue at sunset, a long soak in the hot tub and snuggling up in front of the fire.
Catchpenny Safari Lodges, Fife, Scotland
Four safari tents sit perched on the edge of the Fife coastal path, with beautiful views out over the sea and of the dolphins in the bay. The set up is perfect for groups; each canvas lodge equipped with cosy interiors, a woodburning stove, and a kitchen that has been carved from Alex and Tara's own trees. There are idyllic fishing villages nearby, or if you want to stay put just lounge on the deck, toast marshmallows on the fire and stare at the stars.
If you want to plan the perfect summer holiday in one of our new spaces, we’d advice booking soon as they get snapped up pretty quickly! If you’d like to see all of our new spaces check out our New Spaces collection, or head to our One of a Kind collection for more wild inspiration.
Leave your phone and map behind, all you’ll need for this one is your adventurous spirit and some boots. For the next installation of The Enriched List, we’ve chosen a selection of spaces that have epic hikes straight from the door. So you can ditch the map, loose all sense of direction, and unleash your inner wilderness in the middle of nowhere. Trust us, it’s great fun.
Caban Cader, Powys, Wales
Surrounding Caban Cader are the stunning Welsh valleys, and miles of bike trails to fuel your inner adrenaline rush. You can head off on Glyndwr’s Way, a 135-mile National Trail, and within half an hour, you could have conquered a mountain, danced in the forest, had a mud fight on the moors and paddled in waterfalls. Bliss.
Netherby Treehouse, Cumbria
Staying up in the trees is enough to make you feel like a big kid in a playground. Luckily, the whole Netherby estate is brimming with fun from the local wildlife below to the acres of countryside that surrounds you. Roll down hills, go foraging for the day or take a pair of binoculars and tally up all the wild birds you’ve seen.
The Bothy Project, Highland, Scotland
The bothy sits in the Rothiemurchus estate and offers all sorts of activities from mountain biking to clay pigeon shooting. The local hikes are the real treat though, with Loch an Eilean and Glen Fishie an easy hike from your door. Why not draw your own kind of map and make up your own walking trails? If you’re lucky, you may even stumble across Walter’s gin distillery.
Ark at Leewood, Devon
With it’s own lake, Leewood is full of all sorts of fun and offers natural living at its best. There’s one way to wake up here and that’s with a brisk swim in the lake followed by picking vegetables from the garden. Then, head off to Dartmoor where you can jump across gorges, frolic in meadows and even make friends with the resident horses.
The Damson Cabin, Worcestershire
Why not gather up a group of friends and set off for a weekend in the countryside? Tenbury is a prime location for wanderers, situated on the borders of Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire and close to the Welsh Marches. This is one for ditching the GPS and heading off to find somewhere beautiful for sunset.
The Cabin, Dyfed, Wales
Fiona’s colourful cabin is a real Cambrian mountain retreat. Loose all connection to the real world and feed your primitive needs by searching for the local caves and hidden walking trails. Or, jump in a kayak and follow the nearby river as long as you like. There’s nothing more liberal than following only the sounds of nature and feeling like a real explorer.
For more fun inspired shenanigans, explore our whole collection of wild walks or even have a go at wild swimming. You can also head over to The Enriched List for more top tips on having fun.
We believe that every child is wild at heart. So if your little ones (and you of course) fancy getting your hands grubby, have a go at building a bug house. Using The Enriched List and this simple guide, get inspired by nature and build a house at home to protect hedgehogs, toads, bees and more.
1. Find the right spot
Firstly, you’ll need to find the right space to start building. We’d recommend somewhere in the forest with both a consistent and solid ground level. You should also look out for somewhere that is out of the way of a footpath, but has ample building materials nearby.
2. Get building
Your bug house will need some solid foundations so that it can survive through all kinds of weather. We’d recommend building your base using bricks and/or wooden planks. Start building your bricks into a square, and then continue by building up the layers. At this stage, it should start to look like an empty brick hut.
3. Now for the interior
This is when the fun really begins. Go on a scavenger hunt and find anything you could use to stuff inside. Good materials include twigs and sticks, dried grass, leaves (for camouflage), loose bark and stone. Now start stacking these materials and filling the gaps between the brick’s holes but do leave some room for the insects to get inside.
Smaller holes usually welcome anything like beetles, centipedes, spiders and woodlice. Large holes could attract the likes of toads, hedgehogs and frogs. You could even add a roof using pieces of slate and stone, which will be good for protecting your bug house during bad weather!
4. There you have it...
From that little spark of inspiration, you’ve now made your very own bug house using only your hands and creativity. Make sure you keep re-visiting the site to see what woodland creatures have taken a fancy to it. We’d love to see your creation too, so do send us in a picture.
Building a bug house is the perfect way to get your tribe out exploring the forest, and it’s just one of the great things you can do at home to bring more nature into your life. You can learn more wilderness skills on an adventure with our family friendly collection, and encourage more wild inspiration with The Enriched List.
Waking, eating, relaxing and sleeping, your body has a certain rhythm, and recent research (and a Nobel Prize) has shown that disturbing the age-old pattern of the sleep-wake cycle is having detrimental effects on our health. Relaxation is up next on The Enriched List and whilst it may look like your just having a nap under a tree, your mind actually remains surprisingly active. So use these moments to have some down time, you never know you might even have a sudden spark of inspiration.
Wake the natural way:
Get a wake up call from the sun at The Saltbox, Kent
Research shows that waking up with the sun can give you a natural brain boost of endorphins, often leading to more productivity and a happier outlook on your day ahead. With windows for walls, The Saltbox offers the perfect wake up call with glorious sunrises and views out from the bed across Elmley’s wild nature reserve.
Open the roof and breathe fresh air from your bed at Sky Den, Northumberland
One of the best things about escaping the city is taking in a deep gulp of fresh, country air. Sky Den’s retractable roof means mornings are greeted with only soothing sounds of nature, and you can get out in the fresh air as soon as you’re awake. In the evenings, you can sit back and relax under unobstructed views of the Northumberland Dark Skies.
Fuel your day:
Make homemade pizza in a Camp Kitchen at The Sleepout, Powys
In the wilderness, you’ve got all the time to cook up meals from scratch and using only the very best ingredients. At The Sleepout, you’ll find a gas burner and an outdoor pizza oven, where you can answer your cravings by cooking up homemade pizza, and with the Welsh valleys as your backdrop.
Enjoy a gourmet picnic at Mrs Mills Yurts, Gloucestershire
At Mrs Mills Yurts, you can pack up a picnic and immerse yourself in nature for the whole afternoon. There’s home-baked ham, local cheddar and homemade chutney sandwiches available to order for a mid-hike snack or for a more magical picnic, enjoy smoked salmon and a bottle of local sparkling wine.
Reset yourself:
Forget about it all with a forest bath at Sapperton Yurt
We’re all prone to hitting a mid-afternoon slump when every day's the same. Try bathing in beautiful woodland, in complete solitude and in a horsebox bathtub. At Sapperton Yurt, you’re highly encouraged to sit back and unwind as the steam from your hot bath opens your pores and awakens your senses.
Soothe yourself amongst nature at Treetops Treehouse, Devon
The Japanese art of Shinrin-yoku has been a cornerstone of meditative healing since the 80′s and is the practice of surrounding yourself in forest and letting the soft sights of sounds and trees soothe you. At Treetops you will stay in quite literally a whole house built into a 250-year-old tree. The whole structure is designed with only nature and tranquility in mind, so you’ll be feeling rejuvenated in no time.
And so to bed:
Sleep to the sound of waves at The Lake, Cornwall
Sleeping to the sound of waves is known to lower stress and cortisol levels and help set you off into deeper sleep. The container at The Lake sits nestled in a pocket of Cornish countryside, and with only wildlife for neighbours, peace and privacy reign supreme.
Cuddle up in the Scottish countryside at The Sheep Shed, Aberdeenshire
Turn off that alarm, it’s time to relax until your body’s naturally ready for sleep. The Sheep Shed is a cosy getaway, with beautiful views out over wheat barley fields. After an evening spent star-gazing in the hot tub, climb up to the cosy mezzanine and get lost in your own little romantic haven.
Spending time in nature is the perfect way to reset yourself and get back in tune with your natural body clock. Find top tips for a more meaningful outlook on life with The Enriched List, or have a browse through our On Your Own Collection.
Our first installment of The Enriched List took us on a look at love, and how good it really is for you. Turns out, it does a hell of a lot more than just make your heart flutter and your stomach churn. With Valentine’s Day round the corner, it’s time to think up ideas for that special gesture. And what better way to say I love you then a cosy cabin retreat or a weekend up in the trees.
Humboldt, Herefordshire
As you enter Humboldt you see the woods of the Frome Valley reaching out to the Malverns from the broad deck. There’s comfy seating in the lounge area, but Humboldt is made to draw you out into nature. Take a soak in the roll top bathtub on the deck, and cook up a wild feast using your private smoker and barbecue.
Little Walnut Hut, Sussex
This comfy cabin is set deep in High Weald countryside, and is perfect for wildlife lovers. There are pheasants and deer wandering by, and you might even spot a fox as you fix yourself coffee, toast and eggs in the morning. When you’re tucking into dinner and lounging by the fire bowl outside, you may even see bats swooping in the dusk.
Quiet of Stars, Cornwall
Quiet of Stars is a secluded wooden cabin that sits quietly amongst the Cornish woodland and valleys. With the sea so close by, it's a perfect spot for a romantic hike and picnic stop. The real delight is when you head back for an evening soak in the wood-fired hot tub, before slipping into the king sized bed and gazing up into the night through the sky light overhead.
Idaho Cabin, Sussex
Idaho Cabin is a real hideaway in the woods, and is perfect for lovers who want to let loose in the wilderness. You can go wild swimming nearby (if you can brave the cold!), and foraging for mushrooms in the forest. You’ll feel blissfully disconnected here, and far far away from busy city life.
Big Sky Retreat, Devon
Situated between Dartmoor and Exmoor national parks, the Big Sky Retreat is a carefully crafted haven of peace and solitude. Not only are you spoilt with 180 degree views across undulating countryside, the yurt also sits next to a pond full of wildlife. The handmade, recycled furniture and soft, homely furnishings also make it an idyllic country escape.
Mistletoe Treehouse, Monmouthshire
It’s not just the name that gives this treehouse a romantic flare. With its large balcony, you can spend days looking out at wildlife and admiring the sheer beauty of the valley. Here, you can lose touch of reality and enjoy your days together hiking or biking, before building a fire and slumbering in a comfy king-sized bed.
The Woodcock, Norfolk
This is a real couples bubble, lost within acres of a quiet meadow and completely off the grid. Everything is locally sourced, from the milk and cakes to the flowers on arrival, and even the bed is handcrafted. Evenings can be spent in complete candlelight, enjoying a long soak in the tub and toasting marshmallows on the campfire.
Cedar Falls, Monmouthshire
The views reign supreme at Cedar Falls, as the outside deck looks down over the Wye Valley. Each morning, you can rise early and view the valley as it fills with fresh, cool mist. The cabin is named after the nearby waterfall, which is quite spectacular, and makes the perfect surprise picnic spot for two.
Caru Cabin, Dordogne, France
If you’re looking to pull out all the stops, whisk your better half off to a lakeside cabin in France. Caru is perched on a wooden platform that extends over its own pond, so the outside deck is the perfect sundowner spot. There’s a hammock hung up in the maple groves, a double canopied bed and bikes so you can ride off together into the serene French countryside.
The Bird Box, Devon
This human-sized bird box is nestled in the banks of a wild wooded garden, and makes the perfect romantic retreat for lovebirds. You can both wake up to the sun, which filters through the shutters and french door windows, and in the evening, relax in the bubbling cedar wood hot tub under a starlit sky.
To read our top tips on Love, head over to The Enriched List. Or if you’re looking for more Valentine’s love nests, check out our availability for the weekend before, the day itself or the following weekend.
Be the first to stay in our brand new spaces for 2018
At Canopy & Stars HQ we spend most of our days hunting down the most exciting new spaces to stay. As part of The Enriched List, we’re on a mission to capture that ecstatic chest-tightening feeling we get when we find an incredible new space, so we’ve listed a few of our latest gems to get you all excited!
Rowan, Northumberland
Inspired by North American cabins, Rowan is the sort of place you’d expect to stumble across whilst on a remote wilderness expedition. Its rustic exteriors are matched with the surrounding woods, and you can almost imagine sitting out on deck and listening to only the sound of campfire crackles. For a full frontier experience, spend your evening having a long soak in the outdoor bath, whilst looking out over the expanse of forest that’s right there on your doorstep.
Goji, Herefordshire
Take climbing into the trees one step further by staying in a red berry shaped cocoon that’s suspended 10ft off the ground. There’s room for two, with beds that can be used as a snug, woodland reading space in the day or fold down when it’s time to sleep. Days here drift by, with only the sound of nature to disturb you and there is wild swimming and cycling routes just around the corner. Evenings are just as serene, with the wood burner going and the glass window hanging above you, you’re in the perfect spot to stargaze.
Carswell Beach Hut, Devon
Carswell Beach Hut is a real haven, hidden away in a forgotten cove on the South Devon coast. After a long day of exploring rock pools and swimming in the sea, relax to the gentle sound of the surf as you light up the BBQ and laze in the wood fired hot tub. The huts remoteness means no mains power, a compost loo in a shed and a wild outdoor shower experience, but the wood-burner and the mezzanine bed, accessed up a ladder, turn the cabin into a coastal nest.
Burnhead Bothies, Lanarkshire, Scotland
Burnhead Bothy is a contemporary contrast to its rugged Scottish landscape and neighboring deep gullies. Without anyone close by, the large windows are left bare for you to see out far and wide and you are in the perfect spot to watch the morning mist come off the distant hills. Even when you’re out biking and kayaking on the nearby canals, you could be the only people in the world.
Damson, Elmley Nature Reserve, Kent
So-called from its bountiful supply at Elmley, Damson is the latest cabin creation at this National Nature Reserve on the Isle of Sheppey. Each hut is carefully designed, with bed placement ready to watch the misty sunrise and the resident hares grazing on the grass. Days can be spent taking hikes and bird watching, and in the evening – cook up a meal and relax in front of the campfire.
If even after trying out something new you’re after more heart-pounding excitement, try our other top tips to get a bit of excitement with The Enriched List. Or, just have a look through our New Places Collection.
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