Within easy reach of Chard and Axminster and only 15 minutes from Lyme Regis, Lower Keats Glamping boasts a peerless position that's ideal for exploring the West Country and the spectacular Jurassic Coast. This luxury retreat neighbours the tranquil River Axe, whose waters teem with salmon, bullheads, kingfishers and that Exmoor icon, the elusive otter. The lush wildflower-filled meadowlands are the perfect setting for Lower Keats' half a dozen luxury safari tents.
Sleeping six guests a piece, these spacious canvas lodges rival most boutique hotel suites in the comfort stakes. Three separate bedrooms feature proper king, double and twin single beds all furnished with beautiful linen and quaint extra touches, like the ingeniously upcycled apple crates that provide ample storage (not that you're likely to need it, given all the kit and kaboodle is supplied). An en-suite bathroom with hot water shower means no early morning shivery sprint to the washblock. The central living space features comfy sink-in chesterfields beside a wood-burning stove (with oven) that transforms the lodge into a cosy cocoon on cooler winter nights. When not enjoying daybreak breakfasts out on the porch, the indoor dining table is the setting for family feasts – and if you're going for that 'romantic retreat' feel, light up the candelabras provided. As dusk descends, the unblemished night skies make for some spectacular stargazing here, so grab a blanket and enjoy the twinkles by the warming glow of the firepit.
Despite all the luxury, a stay at Lower Keats nonetheless offers an authentic slice of Devon countryside life. Your hosts maintain an amiable assortment of farmyard animals, with guests encouraged to meet the pigs and ducks, collect eggs from the resident hens and, if you're staying here in spring, bottle-feeding the new-born lambs.
There's a multitude of scenic walking and cycling routes to explore from Lower Keats – just ask host Linda which direction to head. The sylvan splendour of Trinity Hill Nature Reserve or the epic views from Golden Cap are among the best. The site occupies a prime spot on the Devon, Dorset and Somerset border so the best the West Country has to offer is eminently reachable. Spend the morning exploring Axminster itself before heading coastwards to the intoxicatingly charming village of Beer, in the heart of Lyme Bay. Further afield lay some of England's most iconic wonders – Stonehenge is just down the A303 while Durdle Door is less than hour away, if that all important selfie is on your to do list.
Hosted by Linda K.
Joined in January 2017The onsite honesty shop ('The Lower Keats Larder') is filled with lots of lovely local and farm-reared produce, delicious artisan ice cream and freshly-baked break delivered daily. You can even pre-order a meal for your first night and have it waiting for you in the larder on your arrival. A five minute stroll up the lane you'll find the popular Tytherleigh Arms (01460 220214) a 16th century coaching inn which boasts an impressive seasonal menu (not to mention a fine selection of ales) featuring the best West Country produce such as Ilminster steak and Tremlett farm pork. Hugh Fearnley-Whitingstall's River Cottage Deli & Canteen (01297 631715) in Axminster serves everything from breakfast and healthy lunch options to a fantastic Sunday roast. River Cottage HQ also hosts regular dining events and cookery courses. If it feels like a fish night, Hix Oyster & Fish House (01297 446910) has you covered. The panoramic sea views are the perfect accompaniment to their sensational array of fresh locally-caught seafood.
