Get off grid on Renison’s Farm with a stay in Brunhilda – an army wagon in sight of Blencathra and the Howgill Fells. Hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners will be at home here among the hills and, although the army truck has a rustic appeal, it’s surprisingly comfortable inside. The rugged utilitarian exterior gives way to a space that’s pastel hued and softened with a made-up, king-sized bed. It’s just the place for a good night’s sleep to set you up for the next day’s adventures.
Your quirky bolthole in the great outdoors arrived here from the Czech Republic, so you’re not likely to find anything similar elsewhere in this part of England. But here there are three army wagons on the one farm, each sleeping two and combining the cool of a Jeep with the cutesy appeal of a shepherd’s hut. And speaking of shepherd’s huts, your set-up here includes one of those, too. That's where you’ll find your toilet, hot water shower, and camp kitchen. Plus there’s a wood-fired hot tub outside, which provides a nice way to sooth weary muscles after days out exploring.
We’re certain that those who stay here will be doing that. How could you not be tempted to head for Blencathra’s fells when they’re centre-forward in your view? The starting point for a hike to the top is a scenic 40-minute drive away. It’s the north-eastern edge of the lakes, home to all the high peaks, not far from Penrith, Pooley Bridge, and Ullswater. And close as it is, there’s more even closer. Renison’s Farm is in the Eden Valley on the edge of the Pennines, and that is about as idyllic as it sounds. You can head out onto the fells from the farm or drive a short distance for riverside walks, stone circles, and caves to explore – with a smattering of pretty villages and towns too. But you could easily just stay put. Renison's is a regenerative farm. It’s managed in harmony with nature, which means birdsong and the buzzing of bees, along with the occasional tractor, will be the soundtrack to those far-reaching countryside views.
Brunhilda is paired up with ‘Bjorn’ a small kitchen and shower/composting loo on wheels. Sleeping two in a king size bed, totally off grid, with a solar system to light up Bjorn, a small camping stove and running hot/cold water and a usb connection. The kitchen is well stocked with pots/pans/ cutlery/matches/a cold box and basic cooking stuff like olive oil, salt and pepper, also tea and coffee.
Outside the camp is a picnic bench and fire pit which you can be also used as a bbq. Small supply of logs provided, extra can be purchased. Other important stuff • Towels/tea towels are provided • There is no heating in the wagons so please bring plenty of warm cloths, we have thick duvets and blankets, but please be prepared for the cooler nights. • We live up a track which is quite bumpy, its fine if you drive slowly, but alas if you’re car is very low or delicate then maybe this isn’t for you! • We are a working farm, the camp is well away from the farmyard but sometimes farm noises may interrupt the peace! • We welcome folk to explore our farmland, we can supply you with a map, if you’re a birder bring your binoculars, • Our skies are very dark, if you’re a star gazer come prepared! • Penrith is our local town, 25 minutes away, locally there are shops in Kirkoswald, Lazonby (10 minutes away)and Langwathby (15 minutes away) • Kirkoswald has two great pubs, ideal for evening meals. • We have our own sausages, bacon and eggs, and in the growing season veg in the garden, all available to buy.
Lastly and most importantly we hope to provide a place to recharge, absorb the awesome view, make memories in front of the fire, embrace the fresh air and for a little while go back to the simple pleasure of life,
