Park woos Lakeland lovers with heavenly Hideaways

Pod-life has reached a new pinnacle of pampering at a top Lake District holiday park where couples can now snuggle under the stars whilst cocooned in comfort.

Skelwith Fold in Ambleside says its Hideaway retreats are aimed at those who love the idea of glamping pod holidays, but would prefer something less hutch and more hotel.

The park’s two-person Hideaways feature a luxury double bed, shower and loo, kitchen zone with microwave, oven and fridge, TV, and lounge-cum-dining space.

Measuring 14ft x 10ft, the pods also boast large picture windows, and folding fully-glazed doors leading onto a timber decking area with a pull-out sunshade.

Skelwith Fold’s Hideaways are located in a tranquil glade on the wildlife-rich park which is also home to red squirrels, badgers, deer and bountiful bird life.

The glamping pods are made by Swift – and according to Skelwith Fold director Henry Wild, show all the hallmarks of that company’s motorhome design expertise:

“Packing a whole host of features into a smaller space is what these people do so very well, and the Hideaway displays extraordinary attention to detail,” he said.

“Touches such as the silver switches and sockets, double-glazed windows and even a heated towel rail show that these pods have had a really privileged upbringing,” added Henry.

Unlike the sometimes claustrophobic and spartan interiors of some pods, he said, Hideaways are light and airy with just about every convenience of a full-size caravan holiday home.

Guests need only pack what they would take if staying at an hotel – and food, including Cumbrian specialities, is available from Skelwith Fold’s well-stocked shop.

They will also be able to explore the park’s 130 acres of woodland via a network of paths, and to enjoy surroundings praised by botanist David Bellamy as an oasis for flora and fauna.

Skelwith Fold provides caravan holiday home for sales, and pitches for touring caravans and motorhomes – but not, until now, any hiring facilities:

“We wanted to offer something different, and which was perhaps more in keeping with romantic associations of the Lake District,” said Henry.

“Our Hideaways are also the perfect answer for existing holiday home owners who want to invite friends or relatives to share their experience whilst maintaining their own privacy,” he added.

For more information see www.skelwith.com