If like me, you love being close to nature but just not too close, then a “yurt” holiday could be perfect for you. It gives you the back to basics vibe, while still maintaining a degree of comfort and luxury, that in my view, is essential for a relaxing trip away. Netherby Woodland Yurt in Cumbria is tucked away on the England-Scotland border and offers all this, in a stunning woodland location that literally takes your breath away. Netherby Woodland Yurt is a 5 hour drive from London or a short flight to Newcastle followed by a scenic hour and a half drive.
The yurt accommodation itself features a double bed for 2 guests as well as 2 futons for children (own bedding is needed for the futons) plus a travel cot is available on request. Soft furnishing including rugs, cushions, plenty of blankets as well as my personal favourite – a huge bean bag, really give a feeling of comfort and homeliness. The quirky décor has a personal feel and has been beautifully designed; with unique features such as old library steps used as a bedside table and a coffee table made of upcycled driftwood. Your own private cabin is a short minutes’ walk through the woods and this provides you with a very well equipped modern bathroom and kitchen. At night this path is lit by solar lights to minimise any accidental night time woodland strolls! A wood chip burner makes for a practical, but also very stylish, touch inside the yurt. However, lighting your own campfire outside and sitting on logs around it, is really just the perfect way to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. A BBQ is also provided so you can cook outside, but if you wish to eat indoors, as well as a microwave, fridge, dishwasher and cooker, the private cabin includes a table and chairs. The nearest shop is 2 miles away but just 4 miles away is the Marchbank Hotel which offers delicious, locally sourced food – just be sure to book as it’s popular. The hosts, Serena and James, are incredibly friendly and make you feel as if nothing is too much trouble. A welcome hamper is provided which includes local delights sourced from the Netherby estate itself such as jam, eggs, milk and homemade granola. Both children and dogs are welcome at the yurt.
There is a lot to do in the local area but to be honest, most of the time it’s hard to tear yourself away from the peace and tranquillity of the estate. There are very well mapped woodland trails across the estate which offer views of the beautiful rolling hills of the Scottish Borders. The trails also allow you to appreciate the wildlife on the estate and you stand a good chance of catching a glimpse of red squirrels, roe deer and salmon in the river, as well as buzzards, herons and sparrow hawks. Fishing can be purchased for the river Esk and a contact can be provided to assist you with finding the best locations. Should you wish to explore further, the Lake District is nearby as is the Solway coast. Also easily reachable is Carlisle, a beautiful, historic border city, where you will also find Carlisle Castle and the start of Hadrian’s Wall. And should you for any reason tire of the stunning natural beauty all around you, Gretna Green is only a short 4 mile drive away to really add to the romance of your trip!
If you want to escape from the usual frantic pace of life to a place of calm, and see the best natural beauty the British Isles can offer, this holiday is for you. Without having to “rough it” too much, you still really feel as if you are at one with nature and will come home rested and refreshed.
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