The word ‘quirky’ can mean many things, and if you’re looking for quirky places to stay there is no shortage of options. Gothic castles, beachside huts, luxurious yurts and tucked-away treehouses are just some of the types of property on offer. But undoubtedly one of the most unique and romantic categories is that of wagons and caravans. Forget everything you think you know about caravans, these carriages and coaches come in all shapes, sizes and styles, from retro American airstreams and traditional Romany vardos to VW campers, shepherd’s huts and everything in between.
Here are some of our favourite wagons and caravans.
The converted horse lorry
On a quiet farm in Oxfordshire sits The Horse Lorry at Glamping Thorpe, a lovingly renovated hideaway with a log burner and a king size bed. With cosy interiors, wonderful views over open countryside, a peaceful setting and occasional visits from sheep and their baby lambs, this is an unusual little bolthole in which to relax and unwind.
Horse Lorry in Oxfordshire
The gypsy wagon
How much more romantic does it get than an original gypsy wagon, within the orchards and fields of the dramatic Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall. Not much is the answer, and this is what you’ll find at Tregaminion in West Wales. Warm, cosy and comfortable, these two charming gypsy caravans have been refurbished by gypsy folk and now provide the perfect base for an old-fashioned holiday in a stunning part of the world.
Gypsy wagon in Cornwall
The shepherd’s hut
Tucked away in idyllic rural Somerset, with just ducks and deer for company, is The Shepherd’s Hut Retreat, two luxuriously reconditioned huts with serious space and style credentials. Solid oak floors and shabby chic furnishings combine with double glazing, fridges and hot showers to create a truly special experience – rustic and yet somehow decadent. Go for walks, read in the hammock or just cuddle up under the stars.
Somerset Shepherd Hut Retreat
The Spanish Airstream
If you want to leave the UK and head for warmer climes, then this is the place to go for a romantic retreat. Modelled on an original 1930s classic, this airstream is an oasis of calm and luxury in the midst of a ruggedly beautiful Andalucian mountain range. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a solitary retreat, this is a unique, memorable and therapeutic glamping experience.
Airstream in Andalucia
The family-fun campsite
If you’re less about the romance and isolation and more about the fun, frolics and adventure, then this is the place for you. Set in the beautiful Dorset countryside, near to the New Forest and the sandy beaches of Bournemouth and Poole are a bevy of beautiful silver ladies. Betsy, Peggy, Dee Dee, Annie and Gloria have left their homes on the other side of the Atlantic to bring a slice of vintage Americana to those who want to go glamping in Dorset.
Airstream caravans in Dorset