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Top 5 Holiday Huts in the UK

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Posted by Tom Watts at 04:54 on Thursday 06 October 2011

Few accommodations are able to combine the warmth and comfort of a B&B with the secluded, rustic experience of camping. To show you that you needn't travel overseas in search of such places, we've put together our top 5 Holiday Huts in the UK...

The beautifully secluded Shepherd's Hut in the Black MountainsThe beautifully secluded Shepherd's Hut in the Black Mountains1. Shepherd's Hut, Black Mountains
They don't come much more secluded than this cosy shepherd's hut overlooking the Black Mountains. With access to over 450 acres of rolling Welsh countryside, there's an abundance of land to explore, including no less than eight lakes, a river and an ancient woodland. The hut itself boasts a woodburning stove (logs included), surprisingly spacious sleeping area, camping stove and even its own little balcony, where you can gaze up at the night sky or enjoy a warming cup of coffee in the mornings. The shower cabin offers hot water heated using a combination of solar panels and woodburner.
The hut costs from £450 per week, for one double room sleeping two people. Price includes the use of two bikes. For more unique eco-retreats in Wales see Green Holidays in Wales

2. Scales Plantation Shepherd's Hut, Cumbria
High up in the wilds of the North Lakes sit these three luxury camping boltholes. Each of the shepherd's huts is tucked away in its own corner of woodland, while the interiors are adorned with feather down duvets and sheepskin rugs, alongside the woodburner, to keep guests snug throughout the year. Owners Tabatha and Rob have put a lot of effort into regenerating the surrounding woodland, allowing wildlife such as the local red squirrels to flourish, while all electricity is sourced from solar panels. With the Lake District quite literally on your doorstep, there are countless hiking and biking trails to keep you busy.
The huts start at £250 for three to four night stays, sleeping up to four people. For some of our green holiday ideas in the area, see Green Holidays in Cumbria, England

The Summerhouse, sandwiched between the Lake District and the Yorkshire DalesThe Summerhouse, sandwiched between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales3. The Summerhouse, Nothern Penines
You'll find this luxury shepherd's hut in the orchard of a traditional millhouse, surrounded on all sides by the beautiful Eden Valley. Built on an organic smallholding, you'll have access to over 16 acres of private, organic farmland, and there's also the opportunity to buy local eggs, veg and salad in season. The waggon boasts a bedroom (complete with full-size double bed), spacious seating area and kitchen with a stove and oven. Timber clad on both the inside and out, many of the materials have either been sustainably source or are recycled. Sandwiched between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, the local village pub is just half a mile walk along a footpath, while the pretty market town of Appleby is just two miles away.
The Summerhouse costs from £162 for two nights, based on two people sharing.

4. Hideaway Huts, Devon
You'll find this shepherd's hut on the grounds of Treworgey Cottages, overlooking the Looe river valley and surrounded on all sides by green pastures. Luxury is the name of the game here, with a welcome hamper including biscuits, eggs and apple juice, a full-size double bed and a log burner. There's also a fire pit outside, and the owners will even prepare supper or high tea for you to enjoy by the fire. All electricity is sourced from solar panels, and recycling facilities are nearby. For adventurous guests, the website lists a whole range of activities in the nearby area, plus there's just over 150 acres of farmland to explore.
Prices start at £80 per night, based on two people sharing (two night minimum stay)

5. The Old Forge, DorsetThe Old Forge's renovated accommodationThe Old Forge's renovated accommodation
This lovingly-restored shepherd's hut is great for those looking for an activity-filled holiday. There's hiking and cycling in the Moors Valley Country Park, riding at the local horse farm, yoga and pilates classes, as well as bread-making classes at the local water mill. There's a distinct vintage feel within the hut, with traditional board games, tins and jars lining the shelves and homemade patchwork curtains made by owner Lucy. There's a woodburner for chily nights, and the price includes an award-winning farmhouse or continental breakfast made using delicious local produce. If you'd prefer a lie in, you can arrange to have a breakfast hamper delivered.
Prices start from £85 per night, based on two people sharing.

>> Why not choose an activity to match your accommodation? Visit Shepherds Walks and choose from an impressive range of courses and guided walks led by experienced local shepherds.

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