Stamford Cider Huts

Just the other side of the sprawling grounds of Burghley House, a five-minute drive from the elegant Lincolnshire town of Stamford, these two shepherds huts – 'Old Tinny' and 'Burghley Mouse' – sit in quiet countryside at either end of their own orchard, part of Andrew and Janet Mogridge's Grange Farm (which also includes the very comfortable Pea Cottage).  Very secluded, surrounded by newly planted apple trees and a wildflower meadow, they feel like quite an escape, yet are very easy to get to –  just a short drive from the prime arteries of the A1 and A47 and of course close to the various delights of Stamford itself.

Open for the first time in 2020,  Andrew and Janet have spared no expense in kitting them out. Both have beautifully designed, ergonomic interiors where no nook or cranny is wasted and everything has been well crafted. Supplied with super high quality fixtures and fittings, they just ooze country charm, and it's hard to imagine glamping being more comfortable. Everything is provided, from good quality fluffy quality towels and bed linen to a mini Smeg fridge, Dualit appliances and a microwave, so you can be entirely self-sufficient if you wish. There's a comfy double bed, an old-fashioned cast-iron radiator and wood-burning stove to keep you warm and snug throughout the year, and fast wifi and a Smart TV mean that you can binge on Netflix if the weather is dreary. There is plenty of hot water, a rather sumptuous fitted bathroom and shower, and even a glass of bubbly hidden somewhere – all you have to do is crack the code and you and your loved one can toast your arrival. Privacy is paramount and you're shielded by the trees and flowers, while cars are parked 100m away. It's like having your own five-star en-suite hotel room in the woods!

Finally there's the location, which is easy to reach but very rural. There are walks galore on your doorstep, in particular the ancient Hereward Way, which passes by the site on the way to Burghley House and Stamford; if you wish you can leave your car keys in the drawer while you're here – there's even a tandem available for keen cyclists.  It's a short cycle or longer walk into Stamford, which has a historic old centre and plenty to occupy you in terms of pubs, restaurants and shops – Andrew is quite an evangelist for the town and has lots of suggestions for things to do and places to eat. There's also the nearby  Jacobean pile of Burghley House, with its magnificent interior and gardens designed by Capability Brown, and of course its famous annual Horse Trials as well as any number of other events. The picturesque expanse of Rutland Water is but a short drive away – a perfect and very popular draw for walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers and water sports enthusiasts.  If there is a more relaxing rural glamping escape in this part of England, then we have yet to find it.