Hatters Meadows

Forget the Mad Hatter’s tea party and head, instead, to Cambridgeshire for the Mad Hatter’s camping party. Okay, so it’s not quite a party but it’s fair to say that there’s a great atmosphere and everyone is invited. Campers, glampers, kids, couples, dogs and groups of camping buddies are all welcome here. This quirky, Alice In Wonderland-themed fenland site is quickly establishing itself as the place to pitch for a stay near the charming city of Ely. With pitches among tussocky grass and wildflowers, views of the cathedral and a riverside trail in to town, it’s little wonder why.

Mad Hatters Campsite is lightly-themed on Lewis Carroll’s classic story with pitches named after key characters and a year-round glamping cabin that’s straight out of a fairy tale. The name, and subsequent theme, pays homage to Ely’s own Mad Hatter – farmer Claire, who owns the land. He is always busy and (you guessed it) is often seen sporting a hat (a practical cap rather than an elaborate headpiece – but, even so, the name has stuck). It’s daughter Claire who’s set up the campsite in a field among the 100-acre farmland that stands in sight of Ely Cathedral.

The Queen of Hearts Cabin is the top spot and remains open throughout the winter and our Timber Bell Tents are open from April through to August. There are 28 pitches for those with their own kit in a field that could accommodate twice that number. Space is valued here and the establishing trees and wildflowers have been planted to encourage biodiversity and connect wildlife habitats with neighbouring fenland farms. The long grass, the campfire-friendly policy and quirky bell tents give the site a laid-back atmosphere but it’s traditional in other ways with modern facilities and a sweet-little reception area where you check in.