Glamping & Cottage Season

Welcome to our latest blog – we hope you all have had a fantastic summer.

We had a brilliant Glamping season with the Yurts in use all summer. There’s still time, until the end of September, if you are looking for a last minute glamping season getaway – do come and stay.

The holiday cottages were also as popular as ever and we welcomed so many returning guests across the site and lots of new faces as well. It is always so lovely to hear how our new guests find us, with many being recommended by previous guests and our social media presence has really come into its own this year.  We are so grateful to those of you who recommend us and write reviews, it really helps, so thank you!

Hot, Hot, Hot!

Despite being a glorious summer, the hot weather wasn’t without its issues.  Don’t get me wrong, I am not complaining as it was the best August we have seen for a while. It was so nice to see so many people enjoy the site, local amenities, nearby swimming spots and beaches.  But, the heat did pose a fire risk as the ground was just so dry. The grass was like tinder and with fires popping up all over the place – we took the hard decision to ban all fires for a few weeks. This included the fire pit, pizza oven, fire bowls and BBQs. Our guests were of course very understanding given the conditions. However, we did offset this by buying a large gas BBQ.  This helped our guests still enjoy outdoor cooking, whilst also keeping them safe.

Moving Forwards

Reflecting back, after running The Orchard Retreat for the last eight years, it is lovely to see the site so settled in its environment.  Everything is looking great.  The yurts look so beautiful in the orchard, offering the perfect glamping season experience and the cottages, having had a lick of paint on the outside, look so smart and in keeping with our ongoing vision.

I always describe our job as a labour of love and it really is.  We love welcoming our guests, making improvements and maintaining the site – but wow it is hard work. But we wouldn’t have it any other way.

A big shout out to our local pub The Ring of Bells and Thornes Farm Shop – our guests have really enjoyed visiting both. As one guest said in her review; ‘both are practically on the doorstep’. What a perfect combination for a lovely holiday.

Do remember, the cottages run all year round and the yurts will be open again, ready for the next glamping season, at Easter (2023).  We are thrilled with how many bookings we already have for next season, but there is still time to book. If not this year, then we hope to see you in 2023!