Rolling Fields Glamping

Originally built by sisters Monica and Fiona and run by Fiona, this Chilterns glamping site is a real family affair, with considered touches at every turn. Set on their father’s working farm, complete with lambs, tractors and a combine harvester, it offers a real chance to bed down in the Thames Valley and have that countryside experience, despite being less than 30 minutes from Reading and Oxford and an hour from central London.

The farm forms a spectacular backdrop but, rest assured, you won’t be required to muck in – unless you want to. This is your opportunity to snuggle down in a grassy meadow with easterly views across the valley, making your home in one of their bell tents, luna tents or the lovingly restored farm shepherds hut that's tucked away in the trees edging the meadow. Every comfort is provided. Fiona has lovingly applied all the luxury little extras you might need, like fluffy towels and fire-effect electric heaters, while, a short stroll away, each has its own allocated bathroom with a hot shower and flushing loo.

Gaining a little insight into farm life is always fascinating, but there’s plenty of opportunity for you to explore the local offerings too. The village of Moulsford kisses the banks of the Thames, where you can stride out on the Thames Path (passing less than a mile from the site), hire a boat to cruise the river or, if you’re looking for something more high octane, try a spot of wakeboarding 20 minutes’ drive upstream. There’s also fishing close by, so if you’re a budding Paul Whitehouse, be sure to head down to Goring Lock for a spot of angling in a timeless and much-painted setting more than worthy of a scene in his TV series.

While aptly named Rolling Fields is grand, spacious and offers maximum comfort, you can really up the levels to stately with a visit to Highclere Castle (the setting for Downton Abbey), a 30-minute drive away. In summer, the filmic estate is opened to the public, including the castle, an Egyptian exhibition and the extensive, manicured gardens – there’s even a ‘real life film set’ tour if you’re an avid Downton fan. Blenheim Palace, the perfect place for romantic walks and family picnics, is around the same distance away (in the opposite direction). And if you can’t be doing with the pomp, then just bring your walking boots and keep it local – the Chilterns stretch away to the east, the North Wessex downs to the west and a nearby footpath leads you over Mouslford Downs to join the scenic Ridgeway National Trail.