There can’t be many campsites in Britain with an on-site recording studio, and surely even fewer with underfloor heating and classical music in the shower block. But this is Bloomsburys Biddenden, a unique site with a buzzing, bohemian vibe, where the owners steadfastly refuse to follow any glamping norms.
Situated deep in the heart of the Weald of Kent, between the traditional village of Biddenden and Sissinghurst Castle, your first thought when parking up may well be “What exactly is Bloomsburys Biddenden?”. Is it a restaurant or a coffee shop? Perhaps a delicatessen selling tasty local produce? Or maybe it's an arts and crafts workshop? In fact Bloomsburys is all the above, and many things more, with everything from indoor studios to outdoor wellness activities on offer.
Most important to us, of course, is the glamping accommodation, with a cornucopia of canvas options on offer. There are yurts, SoulPad tepees, a Sioux tepee and a large safari tent, pithed together in little groups so that some areas can accommodate up to 12 people at a go. As such, it’s great for little groups who want to book a getaway together, with the capacity to sleep in your own private abode but also camp in a spot together. All the units are snuggly furnished with beds, rugs, ambient lighting and more. If at times it all seems a bit rag-tag and rambling, just remember that this is what Bloomsburys is all about – a surprise at every turn.
Of course the real idea is to get a little closer to nature. Welcoming hosts Claudia and Russell are an excellent source of knowledge on how to make the most of the region's picturesque surroundings. Close by is the huge Hemstead Forest, a shangri-la for walkers, cyclists and bird watchers. Hemstead’s diverse mix of pine plantations, towering conifers and broad-leaved trees make for some magnificent woodland strolls.
With Bloomsburys cool, Bo-Ho accommodation and so much going on, inevitably the site has become a favourite spot for birthday and hen parties. So if you’re looking for a quiet, secluded, more removed experience, then perhaps this site isn’t for you. However, if you’re seeking a fun glamping getaway then give Bloomsburys Biddenden a visit. You won’t be disappointed.
The wonderful gardens of Sissinghurst Castle (01580 710701) are close-by, and a must for any green-fingered enthusiast. Home to the renowned author and poet Vita Sackville-West, these immaculate gardens are designed as a series of distinctive rooms, each with differing themes, colours, and character. For those with a head for heights, the views from the castle summit are spectacular and well worth the climb. On the boundary between East Sussex and Kent is Bewl Water (01892 890000), the largest stretch of open water in the South East. A great place to walk, cycle, or horse ride, Bewl’s 12½ mile ‘Round Reservoir Route’ is open all year round and snakes across meadows, rich woodland, and beautiful countryside. Check their website for all the latest lakeside fun.
As you’d expect the sites eco-credentials are impressive. The onsite delicatessen (01580 291020) stocks a wonderful range of locally sourced cheeses, meats, bread, and smoked fish. The bramley apple and sultana chutney is a popular purchase. Self-catering is provided, with kitchen areas on each pitch. The onsite Restaurant & Coffee Shop (01580 292992), offers mouth watering homemade meals from locally sourced ingredients. The French omelettes are particularly tasty. Situated just off the Sissinghurst to Biddenden road is The Three Chimneys Freehouse (01580 291472), a loveable Kentish country pub. Set in a charming old building with low ceilings and an open fireplace, this boozer has a fantastic selection of local, national, and international ales. The homemade grub is delicious, however a little on the pricey side.
