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The Retreat is surrounded by journeys of discovery, with dozens of fascinating places to visit within easy reach for a day out while you enjoy a glamping break with us here in Wiltshire. Here are some recommendations of what’s available:
Take a short drive to the beautiful spa city of Bath, famous for its distinctive honey-coloured stone Georgian architecture and ancient Roman Baths. It’s a great shopping destination too.
One of Britain’s most famous stately homes, Bowood House is set within 100 acres of landscaped parkland which has the wow factor, with a thrilling adventure playground for the little ones.
Just 10 minutes’ drive away from The Retreat you can immerse yourself in the quintessential charm of Castle Combe – often named “the prettiest village in England”, in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Fans of Harry Potter will enjoy this quirky country house dating from the early 13th century, its medieval cloisters used as a setting in the hit film series. The spacious wooded grounds have picnic spaces and Lacock village is delightful.
Relax with a picnic or BBQ on a manmade sandy beach or enjoy a variety of activates on land and water from paddleboarding, pedalos, mini golf and peddle go karts. Plus, the largest inflatable course – Aquaventure!
It’s an hour’s drive away, but well worth the journey if you want to see hundreds of exotic animals at the UK’s biggest and best safari park at Longleat Estate, seat of the Marquesses of Bath.
If you feel the need for speed, then head for the indoor M4 Karting Circuit which offers thrills for all ages and stages. You can just “arrive and drive” or take part in endurance and Grand Prix events.
How about heading off for tea with the Royals? Highgrove is the private home of Prince Charles, The Prince of Wales, and the Duchess of Cornwall, with its breathtaking gardens open for fascinating public tours.
The exciting Badminton Horse Trials – one of only six annual Concours Complet International (CCI) Five Star equestrian events around the world – takes place in April/May each year in the Park of Badminton House in South Gloucestershire.
Created almost 200 years ago, Westonbirt National Arboretum contains 15,000 plant specimens and 2,500 species of trees from every corner of the world. This Arboretum plays an important role in research and conservation of plants.
Our glamping pods are fine for knocking up a snack or quick breakfast, but if you’re looking for something more substantial there are plenty of options in the local area for meals out or a leisurely pint. The area’s well supplied with independent shops, too, where you’ll find unique and special items.
Just up the road in the town of Sutton Benger you’ll find the elegant La Flambe for fine dining. Just a little further you’ll find an array of restaurants and bars like the Somerford Arms Gastro Pub and The Spice Heaven.
In nearby Malmesbury treat yourself to a luxury Michelin starred dining experience at Whatley Manor, which offers two alternatives – fine dining in The Dining Room and a relaxed vibe in Grey’s Brasserie. You’ll also find an array of small independent cafes and cosy pubs, many of which are dog-friendly, like The Old Bell Hotel in Abbey Row (the oldest Hotel in England) or The Bird Cage artisan pizzeria.
The historic Malmesbury high street and its surrounding area is bristling with a collection of unique, independent shops, ideal for browsing. There’s everything from bakeries to jewellers and antique stores. Chippenham is the place to go for a great line up of chain stores like New Look and Robert Dyas (in Borough Parade). Just outside of Chippenham you’ll find Hathaway Retail Park and Methuen Park.
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