The picturesque Cotswolds is known for its enchanting villages and breathtaking landscapes, making it a fantastic destination for family vacations. For those seeking an alternative to traditional camping, the region offers family-friendly glamping pods that combine comfort with the great outdoors. Starting at just £59 per night, these glamping options promise to delight both parents and children alike, providing an ideal backdrop for cherished family memories.
As someone who isn’t particularly fond of camping—especially during cooler weather—I was excited to discover luxury glamping options. This past weekend, my family and I ventured on our first staycation to the Cotswolds. Despite its proximity, just an hour and a half from Berkshire, I had never explored this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty before. With a three-month-old baby in tow, it seemed like the perfect opportunity for a memorable getaway.
Glamping in the Heart of The Cotswolds
Thanks to its popularity, accommodations in the Cotswolds can often come with a hefty price tag. This is where glamping shines as an excellent choice for families like ours. For just £59 per night, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cotswolds while enjoying the necessary comforts in a cozy, budget-friendly pod.
Note that a minimum stay of two nights is typically required to book.
Experience Freedom Glamping Pods
While glamping’s appeal varies from person to person, my stay with Experience Freedom in Moreton-in-Marsh certainly met my expectations. Each pod features an en-suite bathroom with a dual shower-head—a detail I appreciated, along with luxury amenities like a heated towel rail, plush bedding, and USB ports conveniently located at the bedhead. The welcome basket filled with tea and biscuits made our arrival all the more inviting.
Our Spacious Glamping Retreat
Designed with families in mind, the pod is reminiscent of a static caravan, cleverly maximizing space. Accommodating four guests, it includes a wall-mounted double bed, two bunk beds for the kids, and a fold-out table hidden beneath the sofa. Although compact, the layout is practical for family gatherings.
For added convenience, the tiny kitchen is equipped with everything you need: a kettle, toaster, microwave, and crockery. This means you can simply arrive with your clothes and toiletries, as all essential items—including the kitchen sink—are readily available.
During our visit in April, the weather wasn’t ideal for outdoor dining, but I looked forward to summer when guests can make use of the BBQ pit on the deck. We spent our time cozying up indoors, enjoying the serene view of mist rising from the fields through the double doors.
Enjoying Dining On-Site
The cozy interior made it possible for my parents to join us for tea, comfortably fitting into the space alongside our baby. We found clever storage solutions for all the necessities of traveling with an infant, ensuring we had plenty of room for baby gear.
The pod also features a TV and Wi-Fi connectivity, enhancing our staycation experience. On Friday and Saturday evenings, a food truck appears on-site, eliminating the need to venture out if you’re craving a laid-back night. We savored delicious pizzas and prosecco, laying the groundwork for a fun weekend filled with exploration.
Unbeatable Location in Moreton-in-Marsh
The pod’s location is another highlight; it’s situated on the outskirts of the Moreton-in-Marsh Club Site. Our deck overlooked charming fields where we could spot dog walkers out enjoying the scenery. Best of all, the charming town of Moreton-in-Marsh is only a 10-minute walk away, making it easy to explore the area.
For those traveling with pets, the glamping pods are dog-friendly, making it a great option for families who don’t want to leave their furry friends behind.
Cafes and Local Shops
This quaint town features stunning architecture and ample amenities for visitors, including a Tesco Express for stocking up on essentials and a variety of delightful cafes and tea houses to explore.
We discovered Martha’s Coffee House, which offered a cozy ambiance perfect for brunch. Framed windows, wooden beams, and roaring fires shaped the ideal atmosphere for enjoying a hearty breakfast. I opted for smashed avocado and feta, which was just as sumptuous as it sounds.
Must-Visit Villages in The Cotswolds
If you venture a bit further, you’ll discover some of The Cotswolds’ most enchanting villages in just 10 to 15 minutes’ drive. We enjoyed browsing the bakeries and scenic waterways of Bourton-on-the-Water, known for its charming canals, explored boutique shops in Stow-On-The-Wold, stumbled upon a film crew in Lower Slaughter, and indulged in organic goodies at Daylesford Farm.
Engaging Family Attractions
The Cotswolds is replete with family-friendly activities. Options include the Cotswolds Motoring Museum & Toy Collection, known as the home of Brum, the entertaining Dragonfly Maze, and Birdland in Bourton-on-the-Water. Additionally, the nearby Cotswolds Farm Park offers a chance for kids to connect with nature, and there’s a small adventure playground near the glamping pods for children to expend some energy.
Our inaugural family staycation was a fantastic experience, and much of that success stems from the well-designed Experience Freedom glamping pod. While it might be viewed as “camping for cheaters,” the comfort and convenience were definitely worth it. And why not enjoy a bit of luxury while exploring the great outdoors?
Final Thoughts
Experience Freedom Glamping Pods start from £59 per night, with five locations across the UK. While our stay at the Moreton-in-Marsh pod was complimentary, all opinions shared here are genuinely my own, with the remainder of our trip personally funded. For those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation, a glamping trip to The Cotswolds may just be your next great family escape.
