Swaynes Pods

As you sit in the hot tub watching the breeze gently rustle the trees that surround Swaynes Pods, it’s easy to understand your place in the world. A few miles north are the scenic Surrey Hills, to the east there’s the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and, closer still, is the South Downs National Park. What’s harder to comprehend is how this green and leafy West Sussex location is so easily reached from London. It’s a commutable hour away; a mere 40 miles from Big Ben. Slip away from the city in this direction and the city soon slips away from you.

Not long after the skyscrapers have receded in the rear-view mirror, you’ll find yourself arriving at Swaynes Pods, waved down by helpful owner Greg. He’ll show you where to park your car then take you across one field into another that’s further from the road transporting you, your luggage and any excited kids in an all-terrain vehicle to your pod. At the moment there’s just the one in a field of several acres.

Space, therefore, is the biggest luxury here though the hot tub comes a close second. Beyond that, there’s something simple about the glamping on offer. Yes, the pod has its own en-suite shower and loo and yes, the beds are made — but there’s nothing too fancy here. The kitchenette is a simple construction, the grain of the curved timber-clad walls is the only decoration and it’s the French doors, not a TV, that are your window on the world. There’s no mains electricity, so power is precious and supplied by batteries and gas. Cooking is on a camping stove or outside on the campfire and, thanks to all this, the essence of camping remains — albeit softened by pillows.

The pod is comfortable for couples but, as it has a sofa bed, there’s room for a couple of kids, too (or for friends who don’t mind sharing). Whether it’s a grown-up getaway or a family affair, the walk to the local pub is a must — especially in spring when part of the way is lined by bluebells. The path that leads there is part of the traffic-free Downs Link cycling and walking route between Guilford and Shoreham-by-Sea. Fishing fans will like the nearby lakes, families will enjoy Fisher’s Farm Park and everyone will enjoy the breath of fresh air that’s afforded by this short hop into the countryside so handily positioned between city and sea.