You don’t have to be a fan of Downton Abbey to visit Hollington Park Glamping but if you are, you’re going to love this place. This pod and bell tent glamping site is popular with fans of the famous TV series because it’s just five minutes from Highclere Castle, the magnificent house that provided the setting for Downton’s period drama. Built in 1842, the castle may be one of the key historic attractions in the area but it’s by no means the oldest. There are lots of other landmarks within the North Wessex Downs that could claim that title – including ancient woodland. And it’s in one of those woods, among mature ash, oak and horse chestnut trees, that Hollington Park Glamping is found.
As such, it seems suitable that most things here are made of wood. There are the two timber pods, for a start, which sit in the centre of the site. A little wander through the trees away are three super-sized six-metre bell tents which offer an alternative way to stay. Both have everything you need to be comfortable including full-sized double beds and fold-out z-beds for children, complete with fresh bedding and towels. They each have their own shower and flushing loo just outside. And while the tents are off grid, the pods have an electricity supply. The focal point of the site is an enchanting woodland clearing with a large fire pit in the middle, surrounded by benches built out of tree trunks. For your firewood, simply forage in the surrounding 10-acre woodland. It’s all yours to explore.
Off site, there’s more to discover. Highclere Castle, of course, and plenty of other attractions too. The Bombay Sapphire distillery being one of them, a 20-minute drive away. Newbury is even closer and on its outskirts, 4 Kingdom Adventure Park and Family Farm is a great place to visit with kids. There’s walking, horse riding and good country pubs within walking distance too.