Pitchup.com, an outdoor accommodation specialist with over 5,000 campsites, caravan parks and glamping sites in 67 countries across the UK and Europe on their books, is encouraging newlyweds to experience an alternative honeymoon by discovering the romance of the great outdoors.
Or perhaps an isolated mini-moon in a luxurious outdoor setting could be just what couples need to unwind after the stress of organising a wedding, before heading off on a longer honeymoon at a later date.
Dan Yates, founder of Pitchup.com, says: “The UK offers some truly breathtaking scenery and wildly romantic outdoor activities, making a ‘staycation honeymoon’ a great choice for couples wanting to get away from it all after the business of their big day. Plus, contrary to outdated opinion, camping doesn’t have to mean a back to basics experience, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy an outdoor escape without the effort of putting up your own tent. We have a wide variety of glamping sites on our books that boast luxurious amenities perfect for a romantic getaway and to make lifelong memories. Increasingly people are looking for something a little alternative and we think time alone in nature is the perfect way to celebrate romance and unwind.”
Featuring everything from enchanting yurts to spa-style outdoor hot tubs, crackling fire pits and magical stargazing opportunities, Pitchup.com has revealed some of the most romantic sites across the UK.
A Swift Escape, Essex, England
Located in a secluded spot in rural Essex near Beaumont-cum-Moze, the luxury yurt at adults-only site A Swift Escape comes with all the fabulous facilities couples could desire for a romantic getaway.
On the wooden decking, which overlooks the rolling fields of the surrounding area, guests will not only find an outdoor dining area with a sizzling BBQ, but also two roll-top tubs for an atmospheric outdoor bath.
Inside, a comfortable kingsize bed awaits underneath a stargazing window in the roof, with tea and coffee-making facilities, board games and books adding further creature comforts. A variety of different catering packages for those who don’t feel like cooking every day is also available.
Situated a 15-minute drive from Frinton-on-Sea, romantic strolls along the beach are just a stone’s throw away. The bustling city of Colchester can also be easily reached in just 25 minutes.
Price per night (Yurt): From £100 per night based on two people sharing, 2 night minimum stay.
Book: Pitchup.com
Toadlands Shepherd Huts, County Durham, England
Unique, chic and comfortable, newlyweds will love the cosy and luxurious Toadlands Shepherd Huts kitted out with kingsize beds, sumptuous fabrics, tongue-and-groove wood panelling, a fully equipped kitchen, ensuite bathrooms, double-glazed hardwood floors and electric heating.
Decorated in rich jewel tones and eye-catching design details, both of the two huts available feel like a boutique hotel on wheels – and that’s even before you discover the wood-fired hot tub and fire pit outside!
Cook up a feast with local delicatessen at the well-equipped onsite kitchen area known as the Hut or venture out to one of the nearby village pubs, cafes or restaurants. Situated close to the market town and historic ruins of Barnard Castle, as well as the start of the Tees Valley Railway walk, a charming countryside getaway awaits.
Price per night (Shepherd’s hut with hot tub): From £124.80 per night based on two people sharing, 2 night minimum stay. 20% discount available on stays of seven nights or more until 1st January 2024.
Book: Pitchup.com
Wuthering Heights Inn, West Yorkshire, England
Newly-hitched literary lovers can follow in the footsteps of Emily Brontë’s famous Gothic drama Wuthering Heights when staying in the atmospheric Yorkshire moors region.
Located just 1.5 miles from Haworth, where the tragic story is believed to have been set, guests can immerse themselves in the remote wilderness – but with easy access to the local pub and Yorkshire market towns like Skipton, Saltaire and Hebden Bridge.
The tiny, peaceful site is completely off grid, which means no electricity, water or sewerage capability on the camping field. It does have a utility room, though, complete with a fridge, washing-up facilities, a radiator with a drying rack, a kettle, and sockets for phone charging and hairdryers.
Situated right by the Pennine and Millennium Ways, nature enthusiasts will love to explore this striking area on a wild hike with a romantic picnic!
Price per night (Shepherd’s hut): From £65 based on two people sharing, 2 night minimum stay.
Book: Pitchup.com
Culdees Castle Estate, Pertshire, Scotland
Newlyweds can continue their fairytale after the big day with a stay in the regal grounds of Culdees Castle near Gleneagle, which is home to an impressive glamping site with spacious wooden cabins.
Each boasts its own pathway access and gardens for total privacy, as well as fabulous facilities including outdoor pergola seating, fairy lighting, wood-fired hot tubs, BBQ stations and fire pits for the ultimate romance factor. Wild deer roam the grounds alongside the castle’s own poultry in this idyllic setting straight out of a fable.
The accommodation is smart, modern and tastefully furnished, with facilities including a bright washroom, a well-equipped kitchen area and free WiFi.
Culdees Castle Estate, which was gifted to the Drummond clan as a reward for fighting alongside Robert the Bruce, is located five minutes’ drive from Muthill, an attractive village with a restaurant, pub, ancient church and small golf course. Meanwhile, the world-famous golfing destination of Gleneagles is just a short drive down the A823 away.
Price per night (Drummond Lodge cabin): From £140 per night based on two adults sharing, 2 night minimum stay.
Book: Pitchup.com
The Wee Lodge on Loch Morar, Highlands, Scotland
Guests can make their Outlander fantasies come true with a stay at this cosy glamping pod overlooking the Loch of Morar, near Mallaig in the Scottish Highlands.
Situated in a peaceful spot within the grounds of a working croft, no mobile phone signal or WiFi connection mean that bride and groom can enjoy an off-the-grid getaway that guarantees quality time.
The comfy interior contains a double bed, sofa, dining table, shower room and a kitchen area with a hob, fridge, microwave, kettle and toaster. All the linen, towels and kitchen kit is included, as is electricity, hot water and drinking water. Should the happy couple need further supplies or want to explore further afield, the charming harbour town of Mallaig is only six miles away and connected to the A830, which leads all the way to Fort William.
On the picturesque glamping spot’s doorstep, guests will find ample opportunity for outdoor pursuits such as walking, cycling, canoeing or relaxing on the beach.
Price per night (The Wee Microlodge): From £90 per night based on two adults sharing, 3 night minimum stay.
Book: Pitchup.com
