Today retaining the simple charms of Firle Camp has left a glorious win-win scenario. While the tent-speckled meadow remains pleasingly untouched and a firm favourite with returning campers of old, it’s just a 25 minute walk down a leafy lane through the beautiful Firle Estate to glorious Roundhill Glamping. Here an altogether different camping adventure awaits.
With two ginormous yurts forming the centrepiece, Roundhill's guests are accommodated in the nine large bell tents bedecked with bunting, beds and fairy lights. While the site is hosting one of its frequent exclusive-hire weekends, the yurts could be crammed full of guests. But on regular weekends, they are left empty for the communal use and enjoyment of bell tent occupants. You might not be able control the great British weather, but at least the yurts mean that you can sit it out in comfort and warmth if things get too chilly!
The setting for Roundhill Glamping is truly one of a kind. Situated within a hidden valley, protected from the elements, but still able to get the sun all day, this place is so tucked away that you can’t even see it until you reach a remote field gate. You then enter into a romantic, untouched valley with the South Downs as your backdrop. If you look up at dusk you will see a blanket of stars and on some nights, the moon appears close enough to touch – simply a magical place.
The field itself is flanked by steep hills and a wood, which shelter glampers from the breeze that drifts across the Downs. Situated in the South Downs National Park, guests can truly immerse themselves in the local wildlife. Firle Beacon is a steep 10 minute walk away and leads to the South Downs Way. The view from the top may be fantastic, but so is the view from the village pub, The Ram – a perfect post-prandial pit-stop.
So, if the weather’s not on your side, the two yurts offer a fantastic communal space for bell tent occupants. They are also a key reason that Roundhill is a popular spot with groups, who can hire out the entire site for their own exclusive use.
Although wonderfully remote, there is masses to do here. Relaxing, walking and getting into sync with nature are the prime activities. But there is also a good selection of outdoor games to play, with a few board games on standby inside if the weather hasn't read the script! So, should the heaven's open, the two yurts offer a valuable communal space for bell tent occupants. They are also a key reason why Roundhill is a popular spot with groups, who can hire out the entire site for their own exclusive use. These outdoor gatherings are a hit with every type of guest too – the luxury lovers can slope of to their bell tent for a little shut eye beneath the canvas, while revellers with their pop-up tents and backpacks can wander back down the road to the original Firle Camp, ready to peg down, roll out and camp the old fashioned way.
There’s a great pub a brisk 20 minutes’ walk from the site – The Ram (01273 858222) – with a fantastic menu and a lovely beer garden. Families should try the Barley Mow (01323 811322) at Selmeston – a 30 minute walk away – which also has a kids play area and even more outdoor space. There’s a small shop in Firle village and a top-notch farm shop at nearby Middle Farm (01323 811411).