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Every Gypsy and Traveller caravan site in England mapped and listed

Gypsy families at Appleby Horse Fair

Official figures showing the number of Gypsy and Traveller caravan sites across England have been released today.

The report published by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) , is the most comprehensive count of local gypsy and caravan sites with details on total number of pitches and showing both those on authorised and unauthorised sites.

The number of those on authorised sites increased by 556 caravans since January 2010 with a total of 15,274 now being recorded. However the number of those on unauthorised sites saw a huge drop - down 26% on the previous year.

The decrease of unauthorised caravans was more pronounced on land not owned by Gypsies and Travellers with a large drop of 26% on the year with a much smaller decline of 8% on land that owned by either Gypsies or Travellers.

The total number of all sites across England only saw a marginal rise with 46 more caravans than in January 2010, making the total 18,383 in January 2011.

The data which also shows gypsy, traveller and travelling showpeople caravan sites by local authority, illustrates which areas of England have the highest concentration. The east of England recorded the highest number of caravans - 24% of the total number- then followed by the South East.

Cottingley Springs in Leeds has the highest caravan capacity of those recorded in England with the capacity of 120 whilst Duchy Road in Salford has the highest number of pitches at 61.

London and the North East recorded the lowest number of caravans. The Google Fusion map shows all the Gypsy, Traveller and travelling showpeople caravan sites across England and is colour coded to show the sites with the highest number of pitches (the red circles). The spreadsheet to download also shows the number of total caravan sites over the years. What can you do with this data?

Data summary

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Gypsy Traveller sites

Surrey County Council owns 17 permanent Gypsy and Traveller Caravan sites across the county.

We are responsible for:

  • General Site Management
  • Management of the Gypsy and Traveller waiting list

Sites we manage

Surrey County Council directly manages 15 sites:

Guildford Borough Council manages two sites on our behalf:

  • Clasford Bridge, Normandy
  • Ash Bridge, Ash

These are permanent sites with plots for which the Traveller signs a licence and pays rent. They should not be confused with transit sites, of which we have none.

There are over 50+ Gypsy/Traveller sites across the county, most are privately owned and do not come under the council or local authority responsibility.

Management of the Gypsy/Traveller Site Waiting List

Surrey County Council holds a waiting list for Gypsies and Travellers who wish to be considered for plots on any of the sites owned and managed directly by the council. For more details see the site allocation criteria . For other enquiries regarding sites managed by us please contact the Property Helpdesk and for an application form contact us:

Guildford Borough Council holds a waiting list for Clasford Bridge and Ash Bridge. Enquiries about these sites should be directed to Guildford Borough council.

  • Reviewed: 16 Jan 2020
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Gypsy and Traveller sites

If you are a member of the Gypsy or Traveller communities, you might find a pitch on:

a council owned site

a privately owned site that has a licence

Most council and private sites are permanent. Some councils have transit sites for shorter stays.

How to apply

You can contact the council in a local area to apply to live on a council site. Ask if the council has a Gypsy and Traveller liaison officer who you can speak to.

Search for a Gypsy and Traveller liaison officer on the Friends, Families and Travellers website. The liaison officer may also be able to tell you about private sites in the area.

Your agreement

When you move on to a site you are given a written agreement. This should set out:

the site rules

your pitch fees

the site manager’s responsibilities

notice times if you want to leave

Costs will usually include:

council tax

Help with costs

You can claim benefits to help with pitch fees if you are struggling with costs. You can apply for council tax support on GOV.UK . Your council tax bill will be reduced if you get council tax support.

Facilities on sites can include:

space for a caravan

space to park vehicles or a second caravan

toilets, showers or baths

storage space

Leaving the site to travel

You can usually keep your pitch when you are travelling. Your pitch agreement may say how long you can be away for.

You can also check with the site manager. Ask for any agreement about the time you can be away for in writing. You keep paying your pitch fees and council tax while you are away.

How to complain about sites and treatment

You can complain to the site manager if you are not happy with the facilities or conditions. If you live on a council site or are upset about the council's behaviour towards you:

make a complaint to the council

tell the council’s liaison officer about the problem

Inheriting a pitch or mobile home

Your pitch goes to your husband, wife or civil partner if you lived together in the mobile home. If you don't have a married or civil partner, it can pass to another family member who lives with you. This includes an unmarried partner. Partners or family members who live with you can stay on the pitch. If you don't have a partner or family member living with you, your mobile home can be passed to your next of kin or to someone else in a will. They need the site owner's permission to live on the site.

If you are threatened with eviction

Find out more about eviction from a site .

You can ask the local council for homeless help if you're homeless or facing eviction in the next 8 weeks.

Still need help?

You can get specialist advice and support from:

Gypsy and Traveller Helpline 0121 685 8677

Friends Families and Travellers (FFT) 01273 234777

the FFT services directory to search for more services

Last updated: 14 March 2024

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19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

London Bridge

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament on the banks of the River Thames

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

Edinburgh

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Roman Baths

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

Bath

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

Stonehenge

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

Windsor Castle

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Village of Castle Combe in the Cotswolds

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

View over the Lake District

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Stone buildings in a Cotswold village

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

Medieval York and its Minster

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
  • From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

Cambridge

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Canterbury

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

River Stour in Canterbury

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

The ruins of Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

  • From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
  • From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Manchester Town Hall

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Cardiff: The Capital of Wales

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Gorey Castle in Saint Martin, Jersey, Channel Islands

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

Aerial view of Balmaha village on Loch Lomond

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Snowden Mountain Railway

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

City Hall in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

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Hertfordshire Gypsy and Traveller Service

Gypsy and Traveller sites in Hertfordshire Apply for a pitch Information for tenants What does the Gypsy and Traveller Service do? Contact us

Gypsy and Traveller sites in Hertfordshire

There are 55 Gypsy and Traveller sites in Hertfordshire.

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  • 10 permanent sites, providing 187 pitches.
  • 1 short stay (transit) site, providing 15 pitches.

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Apply for a pitch

Permanent sites

  • Fill in an application form (PDF 155kb)
  • Send it to us by post or email .

What happens next?

We'll give you a registration card and put you on our pitch application list. You need to re-register every year, otherwise we'll remove you from the list.

When a pitch becomes available, we'll consider all applicants in order of priority. How we prioritise applications (DOCX 110kb) .

We might offer you a pitch on one of your less preferred sites, on the basis that we'll offer you a pitch on one of your preferred sites when it becomes available.

Weekly pitch charges:

  • Pitch rent: £94.54
  • Electricity: £2.30
  • Water: £14 (no charge for pitches with Affinity water meter)
  • Total: 110.84

Short stay (transit) site

To apply, contact us to speak to the site manager.

Parking fees:

  • 1 unit: £65 per week
  • 2 units: £85 per week

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If you'd like to stay on one of these sites, please contact the owners directly.

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  • Need help? Got a question or problem? Contact HertsHelp - an independent advice service that can help you find the right support.
  • Gate Herts aims to improve quality of life for Gypsy and Traveller communities. Contact them for support with accommodation, health, education, employment, or to report a hate crime.

What does the Gypsy and Traveller Service do?

We work with gypsies, travellers and the general public to have proper facilities for gypsies and travellers to live so that there are fewer unauthorised sites.

We manage and maintain accommodation for gypsy and traveller families on 10 permanent and one short stay (transit) site. 

Our service is funded by the rents collected from these sites.

We can also assist with any concerns about unauthorised sites.

[email protected]

01707 281622

Monday - Friday 8am - 4pm

Hertfordshire County Council Gypsy and Traveller Service, 21 St Albans Road East, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 0ER.

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The best glamping sites in the UK

By Rick Jordan , Laura Fowler , Olivia Morelli and Condé Nast Traveller

The best glamping sites in the UK

Glamping might sound like camping dressed up, but in reality it's the peak of luxury that can be enjoyed right here in the UK . The last few years of Covid restrictions, constant travel chaos and ongoing conflict have led us to rediscover our love for a staycay, and glamping is one of the best ways to see as much of the UK as possible (without kissing goodbye to too many home comforts). Whether you're after a romantic spot for two or a place for the whole family, there are so many options across the country. From shepherd's huts to treehouses with hot tubs and fairytale cabins , enjoying nature has never felt so opulent.

Camp Quaives

The best glamping in Kent, England

Camp Quaives Best for: foodies

Floating around the wild meadow and sun-dappled lawns in your chiffon and shawl, you may hear a little melody in your head now and again – a voice singing Calling out your name perhaps, or a few bars of Songbird . Thrillingly, this 17th-century estate just outside Canterbury was the home of Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie for 25 years, and the psycho-geographically inclined should keep their ears to the ground. Others will simply enjoy the fact that Quaives is now the home of a couple, Daniel and Clare Ryan, who host regular wellness retreats , and their ethos extends to the camp. It’s pitched more as an al-fresco boutique hotel than campsite, but feels like a little Wilderness Festival, with 20 bell tents kitted out with vintage trunks and director’s chairs arranged amid the 19 acres of grounds, with secret gardens to discover and fire pits to stoke. What sets this apart from many other gatherings of bell tents – should the collective noun for bell tents be a campanology, we wonder? – is the food. The couple has invested a lot of time in the allotment here and brought in a chef for The Terrace, a bar/restaurant with a largely plant-based menu that gathers up roast beetroots, and courgette fritters, charred broccoli and cauliflower, along with sourdough pizzas from the wood-fired oven. At the Hideout bar, meanwhile, you can sup on Kentish wines and beers and plan days out to Howletts Wildlife Park or the vineyards at Simpsons or Chartham, while keeping an eye out for buzzing buzzards and Egyptian geese. There’s more foodie hits to be had at the Rose Inn nearby and the Duke William pub at Ickham, while the Fordwich Arms, Bridge Arms and Pig at Bridge are not far. Go your own way…

Address: Camp Quaives, Seaton Road, Canterbury CT3 1RU Website: campquaives.co.uk

Ham Hideaway Best for meal deliveries  A clutch of safari tents and shepherds' huts share this paddock three miles from...

Ham Hideaway Best for: meal deliveries

A clutch of safari tents and shepherds' huts share this paddock, three miles from Sandwich Bay. The latter are completely self-contained – one has its own shower, the other a free-standing copper bath – while the two safari tents are better for families and have separate bathrooms nearby. All enjoy the benefit of a butler service from chef Chris, who delivers afternoon tea fresh to your door (with or without prosecco) and can serve three-course evening meals too, if desired. With the washing up taken care of, there’s more time to enjoy the surroundings – quirky Deal and historic Dover to the south and the beaches of Broadstairs and Margate to the north.

Address: Ham Hideaway, Hay Hill, Eastry, Sandwich, Kent CT14 0ED Website: hamhideaway.co.uk ; hipcamp.com

Livingston Safari Lodge Best for: a wild experience

The sounds of the Serengeti waft in through the window as a rhino plods past, a herd of zebras grazing near the watering hole. No, this Attenborough wonderland isn't in Africa, but in the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Kent. Luxury safari tents are dotted around the Livingstone Lodge, in four-poster or sleigh beds. Each tent has its own private veranda with seating where you can watch the animal world go by. This might be a game reserve but that doesn't mean you have to shoot and cook your own dinner. Eat at the Livingstone Lodge Laapa Restaurant – its five-course menu, included in the price, combines classic rustic African dishes with grub suited to more delicate sensibilities. By staying at the lodge you'll be supporting the work of the Aspinall Foundation charity , which runs conservation projects in the UK, as well as the Republic of Congo and Gabon. Oh, and there's free wi-fi, for those for whom even Kent is one step into the wild too far.

Address: Livingstone Lodge, Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Kent Website: aspinallfoundation.org

In the Vale Keswick

The best glamping in the Lake District, England

In the Vale, Keswick Best for: mountain watching A year before lockdown, the Birkett family – mum Wendy, her two boys and a daughter – set to work diversifying the sheep farm that had been in their family for four generations. Wood was recycled or sourced locally to make cabins , each with a cedarwood hot tub or outdoor bath, with beds crafted from century-old sheep pens and tables from storm-struck trees. Wendy added the finishing touches – local tea and coffee, Le Creuset crockery, towels and dressing gown made locally and bunches of freshly picked flowers from her garden. The result is a very special place that puts a spring in your step, surrounded by some of the Lake District’s most sublime landscapes – the sinuous ridges of Blencathra mountain nearby, sheep bleating on Cloughead, and Derwentwater a short drive away. But there’s also the farm’s little river to dive into, spotting salmon while you’re about it, and a private path leading to the walking-and-cycling route that runs along the old Threlkeld to Keswick railway line. Come in summer and you can harvest your potatoes from the patch; come in autumn and go leaf-peeping (there should be two wood-built saunas standing by the river by this time, too). Adults only.

Address: Station Road, Railway Cottages, Threlkeld, Keswick, CA12 4TT Website: thewanderlist.uk

Wilderness Adventure at The Samling

Wilderness Adventure at The Samling, Windermere Best for: truly elevated glamping

Of course, the idea of wilderness can be quite subjective – one person’s wilderness is another’s swoonsome, silk-sheeted luxury. The Samling opened in 2002 in a white-faced Georgian mansion and has since crafted an enviable reputation as one of the Lake District’s best places to stay, with brilliant food and the sort of service in which butlers materialise out of thin air bearing Martinis. The hotel has pitched a camp of Prospector Tents at the top of the hillside overlooking Windermere – though we’re talking about the sort of prospector who has already struck gold and is slumming it a little for old-time’s sake. There are two sleeping tents and a restaurant one; you take the whole place for a gloriously atmospheric experience, with a verandah for morning coffee and the full Cumbrian, brought by your personal butler, and with a chef to rustle up dinner or a BBQ – afterwards, collapse into the super-king-size hotel beds to the hoot of a barn owl. There’s boating, walks to the blazing rhododendrons of Stagshaw Gardens, hikes to Scafell Pike or Wansfell Pike, and down to Ambleside. But many people choose to stay here all day, relaxing, stoking the fire pit and toasting marshmallows as the sun sets. It’s all more Out of Africa than Into the Wild – no need to pack even a penknife.

Address: The Samling, Ambleside Road, Windermere, Cumbria LA23 1LR Website: thesamlinghotel.co.uk

HERDY HUTS GREAT LANGDALE LAKE DISTRICT

Great Langdale, Ambleside Best for: National Trust fans

Seasoned campers in the Lake District aren't put off by damp and discomfort. They come for the views, and what spectacular views they are! So it is that campsites in the Lake District have been pretty basic (you want a hot shower??), until recently. At the National Trust's Great Langdale campsite, you can now sleep in comfort and still wake up to one of the best views in the world – down the Great Langdale Valley, with Scafell Pike and Bowfell rising up before you. Drift off in shepherd's huts, yurts or ecopods (proper campers can also pitch their own). The three Herdy Huts are traditional-style shepherd's huts, dressed up in simple country cottage style with a double bed, plus a bunk for a child. Under the trees are a handful of wooden ecopods, powered by the sun; and there are also three fantastic Long Valley Yurts , decorated inside with Moroccan textiles, stoves and solar-powered fairy lights. The huts and yurts have woodburning stoves big enough to cook a roast in (the Long Valley Yurts guys provide some camping recipes to inspire); or nearby National Trust pub the Sticklebarn serves local produce, local ales and a local gin. For more of a challenging walk, head via Elterwater to the Drunken Duck . The accommodation is cute but, really, the surrounding landscape dwarves everything else.

Address: Great Langdale, near the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel on the B5343, near Ambleside, the Lake District, Cumbria Website: nationaltrust.org.uk ; luxury-yurt-holidays.co.uk

The Paddock Wildcamp Best for surfers  Two miles from Perran Sands  this popup glamping site  is an undeniably sweet...

The best glamping in Cornwall, England

The Paddock Wildcamp Best for: surfers

Two miles from Perran Sands (recently visited by Boris Johnson, who bought an ice cream), this pop-up glamping site (open during July and August only) is an undeniably sweet spot for surfers , with popular Newquay and Fistral Sands within six miles. If you don’t have your own board, you can hire one locally, or stick to terra firma with a walk to the nearby thatched pub or a visit to the yoga school just across the road. Accommodation comes in the form of pre-pitched and furnished bell tents, with double beds, rugs and wicker hampers; there’s a communal kitchen area and a wonderful campfire nook beneath a canopy.

Address: The Paddock Wildcamp, The Paddock, Mount, Cornwall TR4 9PP Website: thepaddockwildcamp.co.uk

Rusty the Tin Tent Best for: wannabe surfers

There's nothing rustic about Rusty. Forced to share a field with a couple of blousy safari tents, he's the non-conformist, heavy-metal sibling at Chymder Farm near Mullion. Half tin, half tent, the converted shipping container hunkers down in the grass beneath a rakish canvas awning. Inside, Rusty is industrial yet inviting. Bed frames and dining table are forged from scaffolding poles; walls are panelled with chipboard – but there's also a wood stove, cosy duvets and scatter cushions. Out back is a minimalist kitchen, flush loo and a wet room lined with corrugated tin. If you did the tipi/yurt thing when the kids were younger, Rusty will make camping cool for them again now they're in double figures. They can flop, wi-fi-free, in the hammock, fiddle with the fire pit and trot off to the honesty shop for sausages and ice cream. A mile down the lane, Poldhu Cove is one of Cornwall 's surf secrets – a sandy nick in The Lizard's serpentine cliffs with a bacon-baps café in the dunes. Big-wave veteran Dan Joel runs the local surf school – in just two hours teenagers will be riding the waves standing up, a brief moment of elation followed by a spectacular wipeout in the fizzing Cornish froth.

Website: barefoot-glamping.co.uk

Cornish Tipi Holidays Best for sandinhair adventures  Rather like mushroom hunting the spotters guide to modernday...

Cornish Tipi Holidays Best for: sand-in-hair adventures

Rather like mushroom hunting, the spotter’s guide to modern-day glamping is scattered with all sorts of weird and wonderful varieties – pods, yurts (Mongolian and other), tabernacles, bell tents… As the name suggests, Lizzie Tom’s campsite is all about the tipi – North American style, funnelled over 18ft high, canvas wrapped on wooden poles, each with a stove and cool box, embedded into a 20-acre Neverland of field and woodland clearings (all pitches are at least 10 metres apart). There’s also plenty of space for campers’ own tents. Buzzards slow-ride overhead; dragonflies flit like hummingbirds; children with sea-tousled hair roam freely through the cow parsley. Lizzie’s a North Cornish local and a veteran of the scene, opening in 1996 and honing her skills ever since – yoga retreats, fishing for rainbow trout to BBQ by the tipi later, mapping out wild swimming, inviting in the Gastropod kitchen for menus of scones and banana loaf, pizza and veggie sausages. It’s something of a cliché, but this patch of North Cornwall is classic, Blyton-esque territory for all sorts of adventures. Port Isaac is a short drive away, there’s Port Quin for sea kayaking, and Polzeath, Rock and Boscastle all easily within reach. Lizzie’s own recommendation is the beach walk at Tregardock, through wildflowers to bag mussels from the rocks and climb back up.

Address: Cornish Tipi Holidays, Tregildrans Quarry Trelill, Bodmin, North Cornwall Website: cornishtipiholidays.co.uk

Lamorna Glamping Safari Tents Penzance Cornwall

Lamorna Glamping Safari Tents Best for: acres of space

A vast 90 acres of green fields and woodland, through which you can walk to a lovely arc of sand at Porthcurno Cove on the south coast. The village of Mousehole is a 10-minute drive away. Sleep under canvas – but these tents are as big as some hotel suites: there's a kitchenette with a wood-burning cooker, a sofa, dining table and chairs in the living area, two bedrooms and an en-suite loo and shower room. Use the stove to rustle up a full English using bacon, eggs, beans and bread from the honesty shop. Ice cream is a perfectly acceptable – and feasible – breakfast when you're on holiday. Just ask the owner, who also has a local convenience store, for any extras prior to arrival. There is also an adorable honesty shop. One of Britain's best beaches, Sennen Cove, is five miles away, on the north coast.

Address: Lamorna Glamping Safari Tents, Lamorna, Penzance, Cornwall Website: uniquehideaways.com

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The 27 best holiday destinations in June

Atlantic Surf Pods Best for: farm animal lovers

Chickens, sheep and alpacas, oh my! A cock-a-doodle-doo is your wake-up call at these pods set on a family-run farm with an eccentric collection of animals in Bude, on the North Cornish coast. Sleep in curvy cabins with underfloor heating and proper, squidgy king-sized beds. Each cabin has wooden decking, and there are no shared bathrooms. Outdoor 'kitchens' have barbecues, table-top stoves, pots, pans and plates. Meat and eggs can be picked up from the honesty shop and kept in a cool box. The golden sand dunes at Summerleaze Beach and surf breaks and rock pools at Crooklets Beach are within walking distance. And there are three more beaches a short drive away, so you can spend all day surfing – or crabbing if that's your thing – then come back to a hot shower and a barbecue.

Address: Atlantic Surf Pods, West Grove Farm, Bude, Cornwall Website: atlanticsurfpods.co.uk

Copy House Hideaway Best for hottub birdwatching  While the rest of us ate ice cream and watched Netflix during lockdown...

The best glamping in Lancashire, England

Copy House Hideaway Best for: hot-tub birdwatching

While the rest of us ate ice cream and watched Netflix during lockdown, Lancashire couple Lisa and Phil built a glamping site in their back garden. The result is a pair of cosy shepherds’ huts where we’d be more than happy to self-isolate, with a semi-enclosed hot tub that has framed views across the valley. Dogs are welcome at an extra charge and can be walked along the Pendle Way, which runs through the field next to the site, or you can hop in the car and drive to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, about 15 minutes away.

Address: Copy House Hideaway, Copy House Farm, Bleara Road, Earby, Lancashire BB18 6LF Website: copyhousehideaway.co.uk ; hipcamp.com

Feather Down Dolphinholme Best for hottub dreaming  When the tech bubble bursts this will be the sort of place to ride...

Feather Down Dolphinholme Best for: hot-tub dreaming

When the tech bubble bursts, this will be the sort of place to ride it out, bird-watching from a wood-fired hot tub and pondering life as a gentleman farmer. Farm stays are nothing new, but Feather Down was first to up the game, creating retro structures halfway between safari tent and treehouse . Rustic architecture includes the canvas frills lodge, with a veranda and stand-alone bathroom, and a hobbity cupboard bed for hiding out in; Kinfolky details include enamel teapots and candle chandeliers. This one's on the Gorst family farm, just south of the Lake District, in a landscape of peaty moorland and pastures stitched together by dry-stone walls. Labradors tumble in the yard; the River Wyre saunters past at the bottom of the field. Kids can get their bearings on an orienteering course, zig-zagging past tents with a compass. Tomorrow there will be hay bales to scramble up, the chute to slide down, dens to build. Pizza night is a good chance to meet other families, comparing notes while stretching out the dough and scattering rocket. Due north-west is medieval Lancaster Castle, and the gleaming estuary sands at Arnside.

Address: Dolphinholme House Farm, Dolphinholme, Lancaster Website: featherdown.co.uk

De Etchyngham at Glottenham Castle High Weald East Sussex

The best glamping in East Sussex, England

De Etchyngham at Glottenham Castle Best for: a woodland escape

A quiet field at Glottenham Castle, a working farm with Roman woodland and lakes in High Weald, so named for the medieval castle that was removed in the 16th century. Sleep in the brightly patterned comfort of Orla Kiely sheets. De Etchyngham is a single domed tent named after Robert de Etchyngham, the second owner of Glottenham castle, who had better taste than its original owner (also called Robert). As an homage to Etchyngham's sense of style, the tent is furnished with mid-century Ercol, and has wide polythene windows and carpets with cow-hide rugs. Home-grown veggies and homemade cakes and locally produced cider can all be packed into a picnic basket for you to carry off to a green spot of your choice. An oven is being built on-site for stone-fired pizzas. Judges Bakery in Hastings has won all sorts of awards for its sourdough and stollen. Also, we love the books and board games. The husband-and-wife hosts are a former hops producer and a qualified medical herbalist; ask them about the crops grown on the farm. Muck in by walking Glottenham's dogs.

Address: De Etchyngham at Glottenham Castle, High Weald, East Sussex Website: canopyandstars.co.uk

Wowo Best for: picking up new skills

There will be twigs in hair, and soil on clothes. A miniature band of tousle-headed mountaineers edges slowly along a ditch, a small stream rushing many inches below. There's a last call for 'children's yoga, starting in five minutes', and the log man rumbles around dropping off tinder for the fire bowls. The Cragg family have farmed here since the 1970s; now daughter Alice runs the workshops and passes on herbalist lore. In fact, there's more stuff on the timetable than most North London schools: animal tracking and circus skills and heart-skipping evening games through the undergrowth. A new one is the Fairy Preservation Society, for little people to learn about even littler people.

On Saturdays, there's slow-motion hokey cokey and acoustic music in the main tipi – bring along your ukelele for the jam sessions. As for the yurts, Little Owl has the most privacy. But if friends are already pitched, local Max Taylor can set up a bell tent nearby with all the kit needed. The farm shop has everything for the barbecue, plus Sussex gin and Black Pig cider scrumped from a nearby orchard; in summer, vintage trucks trundle in with pizzas and crêpes. For an E Nesbit-style experience, train it to East Grinstead and arrive in a puff of smoke on the Bluebell Railway.

Address: Wapsbourne Manor, Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex Website: wowo.co.uk

Wootten Deer Park Best for deer stalking  For those too impatient to watch for wildlife in Dartmoor National Park this...

The best glamping in Devon, England

Wootten Deer Park Best for: deer stalking

For those too impatient to watch for wildlife in Dartmoor National Park, this new safari tent site set within a Devon deer park a few miles away offers an easy shortcut. Glampers wake to the sight of the friendly animals grazing the grass around their sun deck, which extends from the front of the tent right into the enclosure. Wood-clad interiors create the feel of a proper house, with individual bedrooms and a kitchen and living area, while a quirky cupboard acts as an additional sleeping space for children.

Address: Wootten Deer Park, Wootten Deer Park & Safari Lodges, Great Wootten House, Bow, Crediton, Devon EX17 6LF Website: hipcamp.com

The Orchard Retreat Best for meadows galore  This glampsite opened in spring 2014 and sits in its own 15 acres of...

The Orchard Retreat Best for: meadows galore

This glampsite opened in spring 2014 and sits in its own 15 acres of bucolic Devon countryside, with two-holiday cottages and three yurts nestled in an apple orchard that gives the retreat its name. Perfect for a digital detox, the off-grid location has neither electricity or a mobile signal, and just lanterns to guide you as the night draws in. But at least some home comforts are close by, as each yurt has its own private bathroom inside a nearby cedar-clad lodge. There's also a village shop and pub less than a mile away for day and night refreshments and essentials. All visitors have free rein to explore the surrounding land, with its meadows, woodland and streams – perfect for families, couples or friends wanting to get away from it all (and its dog-friendly status means they can join in the fun). The three hand-crafted yurts are named after the apples that surround them (Russet, Pippin and Bramley); each has a wood-burning stove, comfy beds and cosy interiors. A must-visit chill-out in beautiful surroundings (and despite being off-grid, they do have a website – just remember to leave your laptop at home).

Address: Orchard Retreat, near Thornes Farm Shop, Cheriton Fitzpaine, Devon Website: theorchardretreat.co.uk

Brownscombe Best for animal antics  Some people long for the heatseared plains of the Serengeti others the rolling South...

Brownscombe Best for: animal antics

Some people long for the heat-seared plains of the Serengeti ; others the rolling South Hams, spread thick with buttercups. The big five here include red deer, barn owls, horseshoe bats and badgers that gruntle as they rootle for worms. Glamping's roots go back to the safari tent – an Edwardian living room under canvas – and here are three relatively new ones, wood-framed on raised platforms, capped by flourishes of green as neat as a boy scout's neckerchief. There's basil oil in the cupboard, long Yuyu hot-water bottles in the beds, power showers in the bathroom – even the dustpan and brush is to be coveted. Order ahead and Kate Tregoning, whose family have farmed here for the past 30 years, will have a South African beef potjie on the cast-iron stove for arrival, along with chilled prosecco and homemade brownies. In the morning, she rounds up the animals for children to help feed, and collect eggs; then there are rope swings and cargo nets to tumble into, a wicker den to plan adventures from. Take the ferry to Dartmouth to go crabbing with bacon for bait, then tip them out and watch claws scuttle for the water.

Address: Brownscombe Luxury Glamping, Compton Holt, Compton, Marldon, Devon, England Website: brownscombe.co.uk

Longlands Best for family reunions  The English safari lodge is a growing breed on the glamping landscape. Offgrid but...

Longlands Best for: family reunions

The English safari lodge is a growing breed on the glamping landscape. Off-grid but not off the map. Oodles of space, decked terraces for sundowners, usually large enough to fit the whole gang in and no need for pesky shared loos or washing-up basins. Just the place to go wildlife spotting – keep an ear out for stampeding field mice and voles – then return for a BBQ and soak in the hot tub. Here’s a herd of just five lodges, each sleeping six, which have been embedded in the Devon meadows near Barnstaple for a little while, but were recently given extra care and attention by new owners Jeremy and Tammy Smith. There are freshly cut flowers in the vases and herbs in the kitchen, beds draped in white linen and sheepskin, candles and board games for the evenings – with a boating lake, table tennis and pétanque on the lawn. Home-made dishes can be delivered, while the farm shop has Exmoor gin, farm jams and chutneys and, apparently, some very good cider from an orchard in Crediton. This year, when the site reopens, the couple have added a lakeside yoga circle, a studio space for meditation and corrugated metal wet rooms for each lodge. Exmoor and Ilfracombe are not far, as is Combe Martin Wildlife Park, with surf lessons at Woolacombe.

Address: Longlands, Coulsworthy, Combe Martin, Ilfracombe EX34 0PD Website: longlandsdevon.co.uk

The Hudnalls Hideout Best for going on quests  The Forest of Dean occupies a hazy slightly mysterious place in the...

The best glamping in Gloucestershire, England

The Hudnalls Hideout Best for: going on quests

The Forest of Dean occupies a hazy, slightly mysterious place in the imagination: a hinterland between England and Wales ; a last bastion of mossy ancient forest that inspired Tolkien and Rupert Brookes, strewn with wild mint and wild boar. It’s drawn film and TV teams – Dr Who , Star Wars , among many – and it’s drawn the aptly named Sarah and Adrian Orchard, who spent a decade searching for the right place to relocate in the countryside. Their little fiefdom can be found at the top of a hill at St Briavels Common, with views down the Wye Valley towards Monmouth, where they’ve built an A-frame treehouse inspired by the romantic notion of an American cabin in the wood – although that underplays the ambition here a little. The house, sleeping two with lots of private space, is an artful wooden construct with underfloor heating, Scandi decor, a proper bathroom and a dangling fireplace, and a hot tub on the circular terrace for safari-style panoramas over the Arthurian landscape. The pair holed up here in spring 2020 and made copious nature notes – from the woodpecker at breakfast through to the tawny owls after dusk, with bats, and fallow deer rustling through the undergrowth and the bright star of Venus up above. A deeply immersive forest experience in a lesser-known part of the UK .

Address: The Hudnalls National Nature Reserve, Loop Road, St Briavels, Lydney Website: hudnallshideout.co.uk

The Dome Garden Best for: eco-friendly camping

If you go down to the woods today, you're in for a big surprise… For tucked between the trees of the Forest of Dean is the space-age Dome Garden, a hamlet of eco-friendly dome tents that's large enough to sleep 60 in total. Choose between the Simple Dome, Dom-itory, Double Dome or Superdome. The latter is colossal and sleeps eight on two levels. Beds are aerial hammocks or doubles swinging from the rafters. The campsite is equipped with a wood-fired oven, campfire and, alarmingly, a rocket-powered stove. No need to sweat the basics – Ocado can deliver straight to the campsite. For night owls, the Rocket Bar & Café, the onsite nightspot. And for early birds, there's hiking, cycling, kayaking, a maze, chickens, caving, and a load of other grubby fun to be had.

Address: The Dome Garden, Mile End, Gloucestershire Website: domegarden.co.uk

Wild Meadow at Raynham Best for meadow larks  This place has pretty good connections it was a friend of Charles II who...

The best glamping in Norfolk, England

Wild Meadow at Raynham Best for: meadow larks

This place has pretty good connections: it was a friend of Charles II who designed the 800-acre parkland of the Raynham estate in the 17th century. Today’s owners have maintained the country house and manicured gardens but have let some of the grounds beyond grow just a little bit wild – the perfect setting for a summer glamping site. There are four family-sized yurts available, with wood burners inside, campfire pits outside and a separate communal tent for cooking and dining. The rest of the meadow is ideal for kids to run around in until they fall over, and there are footpaths down to the River Wensum for splashing about – it’s narrow here, but some popular wild-swimming spots are only a five-minute drive away.

Address: Wild Meadow, Raynham Estate, Lodge Farm, Swaffham Road, Raynham, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7EF Website: Raynham.co.uk ; hipcamp.com

Railway Carriages at Ambers Bell Tents Little Massingham

Railway carriages at Amber's Bell Tents, Little Massingham Best for: rewilding yourself

Amber Wykes has been planting bell tents in country estates around Norfolk – and, more recently, Shropshire – for the past decade, strewn with enough hand-stitched bunting to deck out the Mall over Jubilee. For 2022, however, she added something new: a brace of railway carriages in a meadow that’s being enthusiastically rewilded by estate owner Ollie Birkbeck. Myrtle and Beryl are rescue carriages, saved by Ollie from dereliction and lovingly refurbished, with antique rugs from his rather grand house and Art Deco glasses (not a whiff of Ikea here), while the exterior has been given a New York -style makeover by local artist Harry Malt. Each sleeps two with a fold-out bed for a child. It’s easy to immerse yourself in the wildlife simply by sitting out front, watching for yellowhammers, skylarks, blackcaps and finches, but staying here is a rare opportunity to explore the work being done by Ollie, one of the three founders of the WildEast project, which aims to rewild 20 per cent of East Anglia. He’ll arrange a safari by horseback or tractor over 500 acres of heathland, looking out for the occasional herd of wild horses along with a growing number of returning species. Of all the Norfolk sites in Amber’s mini-canvas-empire, Little Massingham feels very special, cloaked in woodland but with the coast just a short drive away. There are also bell tents dotted under trees and in green-fringed clearings, a second campsite for pitch-up tents and a new zip wire and plunge pool – while the main clubhouse (a godsend for rainy days) has table tennis and an inglenook fireplace. A great place to take over in its entirety for a family gathering or greenwood party – but if this doesn’t suit, consider one of the other Norfolk or Shropshire options: our favourite is Hopton Court Estate, with six tents in a woodland clearing and the mighty Clee Hill nearby to be conquered; Wiveton Hall in North Norfolk is one of the original sites, with a lovely walled garden, while the Branthill Farm camp is right next to a craft ale shop (handy!).

Address: Little Massingham, North West Norfolk Website: ambersbelltents.co.uk

Crafty Camping Dorset

The best glamping in Dorset, England

Crafty Camping Best for: arts and crafts lovers

Remember that time you went to Glastonbury, and you were so absorbed in hemp-weaving that you never made it past the Healing Fields? Crafty Camping, near West Dorset 's Jurassic Coast, will let you pick up where you left off, with its woodwork classes (you could go home with your very own hand-carved spoon or a chair made from a tree) and 'campfire guitar-strumming only' music policy. There might be a commune-esque atmosphere, but the living and sleeping quarters couldn't be less like a squat: choose between a yurt, tipi, bell tent or a shepherd's hut, each kitted out with king-sized beds, reindeer-hide throws and woodland showers. The only parenting that goes on is in the hands of Mother Nature – there's a strict no-kids policy. The extra glamping facilities, including a sauna yurt, games and craft library, and pizza oven.

Address: Crafty Camping, Holditch, West Dorset Website: mallison.co.uk

Hobby Farm Best for: adults-only adventures

This place opened in 2019 and is another example of a small campsite run by an enthusiastic, multi-tasking young couple. The farm has been in Tom Ray’s family for four decades, but he and his horse-riding wife Gaby recently transformed the land into a stables and livery before opening up a tree-ringed meadow for campers. There are two green-painted, boutique-style shepherd’s huts sleeping two, and nine pitches for tents and campervans – no children allowed – near a willow-fringed pond that can be fished or simply rowed across. The farm is rooted in the peaceful Marshwood Vale, a classic Dorset landscape of hedgerow oaks and winding lanes, one of which leads to The Five Bells Inn for pints of local Copper pale ale. Further afield are walking routes around Stonebarrow Hill, the fossil beach at Charmouth and Lyme Regis, which is a 20-minute drive away – or just a little more if you ride there on your own horse, which can be stabled with the Rays’ own.

Address: Hobby Farm, Bluntshay Ln, Bridport Website: westdorsetcamping.co.uk

Chigborough Farm Best for budding landscape painters and junior anglers  A happy find from last year while scouring the...

The best glamping in Essex, England

Chigborough Farm Best for: budding landscape painters and junior anglers

A happy find from last year, while scouring the map for a last-minute camping fix. The farm is close to the Blackwater Estuary, an East Anglian waterland of wide skies, straight-as-a-die landscapes, Anglo-Saxon remnants and salt marshes – there’s a real sense of wilderness. The farm is, of course, a man-made environment, but it’s a little world of fly- and coarse-fishing lakes and meadows, with meandering paths through trees and all sorts of distractions: a maze for children; a pottery studio for those who’ve been flinging clay during lockdown; a surprise restaurant in what resembles an ivy-clad potting shed, with a nod from the Michelin guide, and a smokehouse for salmon and trout. As for the camping, there’s a small number of bell tents and a single safari tent, with empty pitches opposite – as well as a wooden cabin on a floating platform in the lake, with its own rowboat. The main hub is a musty hut like a scout hall, with table tennis and a pool table. It gets busy during summer, so may be better for a spare weekend in late summer. From here, the Essex foodie triangle of Maldon (salt), Mersea (oysters) and Tiptree (jam) can easily be explored.

Address: 2 Chigborough Road, Heybridge, Maldon , Essex Website: chigboroughfarm.co.uk

Parkhall Pods Best for folk who dont actually like camping  There comes a point where ‘glamping seems to have forgotten...

The best glamping in Derbyshire, England

Parkhall Pods Best for: folk who don’t actually like camping

There comes a point where ‘glamping’ seems to have forgotten it descended from ‘camping’ in the first place: these strikingly modern pods, like detached hotel rooms in the countryside, feel a million miles from staying under canvas. Inside there’s a shower room, a fitted kitchen (with an oven and Nespresso machine) and a comfortable living space with a large TV. Outside there’s a hot tub with massage jets and a metal campfire-pit, perhaps the only concession to camping of old. But regardless of how the Parkhall Pods are defined, staying here puts you in the middle of glorious Derbyshire countryside. Head down the lane and take the footpath to nearby Shipley Country Park or bring bikes and cycle the scenic Nutbrook Trail.

Address: Park Hall Pods, Parkhall Lane, Mapperley, Derbyshire DE7 6DA Website: parkhallpods.co.uk ; hipcamp.com

The Nest Lincolnshire

The best glamping in Lincolnshire, England

The Nest Best for: multigenerational holidays

One of the most notable glamping species of recent years is the safari lodge, inspired by the tented camps of Kenya and South Africa but with the grasslands of England to contend with rather than the Greater Kruger. When it comes to glamping, Lincolnshire has been a little off-the-radar, but Emma and Archie Dennis were inspired by holidays in their Kenyan home to build three lodges on their farmland outside the town of Stamford. Each sleeps six, with a flexible mix of room styles, including a wood-panelled bunk-bed snug and master bedroom, and a large deck area for sundowners, with a Chesterfield sofa and a chest of board games to plunder, and a large bathtub that has views to the landmark lake and its reed beds – dash out first thing and take the plunge. Emma says she created something that she couldn’t find elsewhere, carefully crafting each one with wicker lampshades and White Company linens, and while there’s a wood-fired oven and electric hob, it’s easier to pre-order dishes such as the Seafood Sundowner, or book a table for two for dinner in the fishing hut. Dennis can set up the private cinema , with films projected against canvas; the lake has two canoes to paddle, and a massage therapist can be arranged – easy to spend the whole day here though nearby are the antique shops of Stamford, and Belvoir Castle and Burghley to explore.

Address: Southorpe, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 3BX Website: thenestglamping.co.uk

Tipi Adventure Hampton Bishop Herefordshire

The best glamping in Herefordshire, England

Tipi Adventure Best for: riverside fun

All you know is that you'll be on a grassy patch somewhere on the banks of the River Wye in Herefordshire, but where exactly is a mystery until you arrive. It's Pocahontas meets John Smith. You sleep on futons inside Native American-style tipis (made locally), complete with a central campfire and blackened pots to cook with, and faux-fur rugs. It's more bucket showers and wind-up lanterns than hot water and electricity. Essentials (a kettle, pots, pans, cutlery, crockery) are provided, but you'll need to bring your own food. There are no fridges, no larders, no cheese caves, so you'll want to go for canned or long life. Or drive to the local village. The games basket (frisbee, badminton racquets, etc). Canoeing lessons. On two-day canoeing expeditions, your luggage is moved for you while you canoe, map in hand, downstream to the next camping spot.

Address: Tipi Adventure, Whitehall, Hampton Bishop, Herefordshire Website: tipiadventure.com

Mad Dogs  Vintage Vans Best for vintagestyle camping  Amazing what a bit of bunting and savvy styling can do. In an...

Mad Dogs & Vintage Vans Best for: vintage-style camping

Amazing what a bit of bunting and savvy styling can do. In an untamed corner of Herefordshire, four aged caravans have been turned into something quite adorable. They opened half-hidden by shoulder-high cow parsley in the grounds of a listed rectory in the Wye Valley, below Goodrich Castle . It's a kind of lost land, somewhere not too far from the Welsh border, the Forest of Dean, Ross-on-Wye, Hay-on-Wye. The vintage vans, dating from the 1930s to the 1960s, have been lovingly restored and prettied up with Farrow & Ball paint and vintage fabrics. 'Gertie' has a bohemian spirit, 'Darcy's all cabbages and roses. The newest addition is a more manly 1940s military wagon. A shared shower block is more palatable when it's a charming wooden shack with a pink sink, flowers in chimney pots and stained-glass windows. Guests arrive to find cream teas served on vintage crockery. At night, hosts Jo and Sacha can cook you something; otherwise, it's locally pressed cider and bangers and marshmallows on the campfire, a million stars overhead, and waking up with the smell of woodsmoke and sunshine in your hair. We love original details such as gas lights, tea sets, wireless and cocktail cabinets. The authentic old fabrics, from quilts to curtains, are so pretty they will send some into raptures. The idyllic setting, which feels properly hidden and overgrown, rustic and not too 'done', and the views stretch all the way to the Black Mountains.

Address: Mad Dogs & Vintage Vans, The Old Rectory, Brampton Abbotts, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire Website: maddogsandvintagevans.co.uk

Woolley Grange popup glamping Best for festivalstyle family fun  The PopUp Hotel has been creating nights under canvas...

The best glamping in Wiltshire, England

Woolley Grange pop-up glamping Best for: festival-style family fun

The Pop-Up Hotel has been creating nights under canvas for those allergic to groundsheets since bringing its bell tents, complete with vintage furniture, memory foam mattresses and their own power supplies, to Glastonbury Festival in 2011. For summer 2021, however, it has pitched up an hour away at honey-hued family favourite the Woolley Grange Hotel just outside pretty Bradford on Avon. It’s a stretch to call the eight two-bedroom suites, in a meadow next to the outdoor swimming pool and fairy garden, tents, with their wooden walls and glass doors that slide onto a deckchair-lined terrace, all topped with a thick canvas roof. But listening to the sound of birds from your bed in the morning and the soft, soothing pitter-patter of raindrops overhead at night is a proper immersion in nature (albeit one that also comes with a rainfall shower in the bathroom ).

Breakfast appears as if by stealth before even the littlest early risers make an appearance: jars of overnight oats, flasks of coffee and Coln Valley smoked salmon and cream-cheese bagels packed in picnic baskets and sneakily left on the deck. From here, slip on wellies and head down the hill to find a den building in the copse, croquet on the grass, an artists’ corner pegged up around a tree stump and a swing strung from the bow of a giant cedar. And during summer weekends – as well as the 90 minutes of free childcare a day at The Den – there’s more: tie-dying classes and flower-crown workshops, willow weaving and glitter tattoos. Plus rabbits in the Good Life Garden, an indoor pool with ducks waddling past the windows, and a The Wind in the Willows -themed afternoon tea on the terrace overlooking the pond. Everywhere you look, there are little moments of magic happening.

In the evenings, after marshmallows are toasted and campfires sung around, everyone piles into tented restaurant The Hideout for whatever is chalked up on the blackboard (pizza, paella, curry, barbecue), plus a Kettlesmith Fogline pale ale brewed down the road in Bradford on Avon or Woolley Walled Garden gin and tonic. This is as wholesome and happy-making as it gets. Fiona Kerr

Address : The Pop-Up Hotel at Woolley Grange, Woolley Green, Bradford on Avon BA15 1TX Website : woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

Elcombe Copse Best for family festivals  This small campsite is tucked away in a grassy hollow with an ancient copse...

Elcombe Copse Best for: family festivals

This small campsite is tucked away in a grassy hollow with an ancient copse behind and a wild-flower meadow in front. Birds of prey wheel across big skies above flint-flecked downs. Staying in two shepherd's huts and four bell tents, campers can curate their experience as they see fit. It's all possible – whether star-gazing and peace, or four meals a day, staff and a rave up; even a vintage tea party with white linen, or a banquet (with candelabra) cooked over wood in the transport box of a 1950s Ferguson tractor. Run by Piers and Sophia Milburn (their family owns Kitty Fisher's in Mayfair, and pheasants from the farm often end up in the restaurant pot), Elcombe is popular with a set that likes to let loose away from nosy oglers. A field kitchen overlooks the camp, twinkling with lanterns and fairy lights – a straw-strewn space open on three sides, with a pizza oven, barbecue and firepits. Some activities come to you: a hay-bale cinema, Viking archery, massages and beauty treatments. A good pub (The Crown), guided foraging and tandem microlight flying are a short walk away. The escapism is only enhanced by no phone signal.

Address: Elcombe Copse, Alvediston, Salisbury, Wiltshire, England Website: cranbornechase.com

Len's Hut Thrupe Marsh Farm Maesbury Somerset

The best glamping in Somerset, England

Len's Hut, Glastonbury Best for: festival style without the festival

Up on the Mendip Hills with a spectacular view of hippy magnet Glastonbury Tor and the Blackdown Hills – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Surrounded by fruit trees and not a lot else. Drift off snugly in a whitewashed shepherd's hut. There's not much room for anything more than a bed and an en-suite loo. You can pick rosemary from the living herb box to use in the kitchenette, which has a sink and gas stove and is stocked with all those little bits you always forget: mustard, Ketchup, and olive oil. We love the festival-friendly location, a 10-minute drive from Glasto. There's only one hut on the land. Going off-grid can be seriously relaxing, but it's always good to know you can get free WiFi if you want it. Under the bed is a suitcase full of board games and magazines.

Address: Len's Hut, Thrupe Marsh Farm, Maesbury, Somerset Website: torviewshepherdshuts.co.uk

Abbeyfield Glamping Best for bunny spotting  This 1964 Bedford horsebox has been painstakingly converted by owner Ash...

The best glamping in Northumberland and Yorkshire, England

Abbeyfield Glamping Best for: bunny spotting

This 1964 Bedford horsebox has been painstakingly converted by owner Ash Symm, with attention to every detail, including neat copper fittings in the kitchen and handmade window blinds. There’s an en-suite rain shower and a snug living area with a wood-fired stove, while outside, a canopy extends into the five-acre wildflower meadow that's yours to explore. Set beside the ancient Borough Woods, the horsebox is surrounded by wildlife (wake early and you can watch rabbits through the porthole window beside your bed), while a footpath leads into the riverside market town of Morpeth, less than a mile away.

Address: Abbeyfield Glamping, Abbeyfield Stables, Mitford, Morpeth, England, NE61 2YU Website: abbeyfieldglamping.com ; hipcamp.com

Swinton Bivouac Best for: pagan ceremonies

The whumpf of a shotgun in the distance sends the hedgerows all a-twitter. This is hunting country, and nowhere is it more evident than at the aviary, where children can wear a gauntlet for Phantom, the coal-eyed snowy owl, to swoop down on, silent as the moon. A mouse disappears in a twist of white and red. The aviary and café are at the heart of Bivouac, and the encampment of yurts is best for those who want to be a sniff away from the marvellous game pie and twice-cooked chips. But really your base should be one of the wooden shacks along the edge of the wild wood. Each is as neat as Badger's house, with a hook for everything, lanterns on the sills and a stone-tiled bathroom with a proper loo. Three tiers of bunk beds rise up one wall, scaled by a ladder and rope, brilliant for swashbuckling (bag the top one, the warmest, to lie back and watch tree-tops dance above). There's something quite special about being sustained by wood: load up kindling and logs in the stove and the shower water will be warm enough for hair-washing later. Outside, amid the pines, quite by surprise, is a Neolithic stone circle – moss-covered and brooding, with plenty of hidey holes and a teetering stack of giant's Jenga. Actually, it's part of a Georgian folly, but the origins are almost as shrouded in mystery. Down at the main estate is a spa and cookery school, and a bigger aviary with more mice; Masham village has a market, brewery tours and dinky art shops.

Address: Bivouac at Druid's Temple, Masham, Ripon, North Yorkshire, England Website: swintonbivouac.co.uk

Penhein Monmouthshire

The best glamping in Wales

Penhein, Monmouthshire Best for: foraging

Sleeping in one of these high-domed Persian tents feels like sleeping inside a puffball mushroom, the glow of morning light softly illuminating the wood-segmented sides as the sun rises. Owner Helen Hearn made the break from London a few years ago, settling back on the family farm – her children’s grandparents are Iranian , hence the Alachigh tents, used for generations by nomadic peoples – and gradually growing her off-grid encampment amid coppiced woodland well away from the farm buildings. It feels very secluded, with just the hoot of barn and tawny owls at night; rustic enough but with a reassuring attention to quality and design – handblocked motifs on the headboards, hotel-standard linens, ensuite loos and two tents with ensuite showers; others have access to the shower room with underfloor heating and a rolltop bath. A recent survey found the farm to have a very high biodiversity level, which is apparent from the birdlife here – spot peregrine falcons, kingfishers, buzzards – the myriad butterflies, wild deer and even the little stream’s indigenous shrimp. The stream is just big enough to swim a few strokes and cool down in; afterwards, draw on Helen’s little black book of contacts and arrange a bushcraft session with an ex-Army expert, clay-pigeon shooting or Foraging and Feast, where you cook your finds back at the tent (others may prefer the gin or perfume foraging, sniffing out botanicals to experiment with). Along with the woodland playground and the stretch communal tent, it’s all huge fun. And Chepstow, the Wentwood forest and Tintern Abbey are all within easy striking distance.

Address: Penhein, Llanvair-Discoed, Chepstow NP16 6RB Website: penhein.co.uk

White House Glamping, Wye Valley Best for: trying out new things

More and more glamping spots are growing amid the UK’s burgeoning vineyards and cider orchards – at this Herefordshire farm orchard, the six tipis are each partly sheltered from the sun by their own apple tree. Like Little Massingham (also featured here), it’s very tempting to take the whole place for a couple of nights – farmer’s son Richard Edwards had the idea for a campsite after bringing back friends from London, who all loved it. The site is brilliantly kitted out for a gathering, with a projector for outdoor film nights, pizza ovens (each tent has a pizza-making area), fire pit BBQs, and a jetty and private beach on the river from which to launch kayaking, SUP and wild-swimming adventures. Plenty of help at hand too: Bryn, the resident ecologist, will take you on tours of the dairy farm, and instructors on everything from SUP yoga and fishing (guests are free to fish the waters by the farm) to wild swimming can be arranged. In the autumn, simply reach up and pick a few apples to make pudding with. It’s particularly well suited to those with young children and those with dogs (who get their own hampers), but all ages will love this beautiful part of the Wye Valley – though teenagers may grumble about the lack of wi-fi. That’s sort of the point though, isn’t it? (For anyone in real need of an urban buzz, the bright lights of Ross-on-Wye are nearby.)

Address: White House Farm How Caple, Hereford HR1 4SR Website: whitehouseonwye.co.uk

The Good Life Society North Wales Best for wild swimmers  Every summer the grounds of the Hawarden Estate just outside...

The Good Life Society, North Wales Best for: wild swimmers

Every summer , the grounds of the Hawarden Estate, just outside Chester, host the Summer Camp across four weekends in July : small mini-festivals drawing an interesting mix of ages and backgrounds, with enough space to relax, well-tended fire pits to gather around and just the right amount of activities to keep everyone occupied, from paddle-boarding on the water-lily-strewn lake, mushroom foraging, vinyl art, mead-tasting, axe throwing and even laughter yoga (the last two are unrelated) – along with acoustic music sessions and the occasional talk (last year, Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Thomasina Miers dropped by). They’re huge fun, enthusiastically hosted by Charlie Gladstone and his children. The farm shop, it should be said, isn't any old farm shop but one with a café menu by former Petersham Nurseries' chef Damian Clisby and an impeccable range of local foods to take away, including the biggest range of Welsh gins we've ever seen. The campsite, meanwhile, has bell tents and space to pitch your own, a small barn nearby for table tennis and tomfoolery, and lots of country walks, the best being to the nearby Glynne Arms pub. New on the menu are guided wild swims from the Victorian boathouse and a weekly guided tour of the 12th-century castle – ask nicely and Charlie may show you the library in the main house, which once belonged to Liberal prime minister William Gladstone.

Address: The Good Life Society, Hawarden Estate, Deeside CH5 3FB Website: thegoodlifesociety.co.uk

Red Kite Tree Tent Wales

Red Kite Tree Tent, Powys Best for: cosiness in the outdoors

Pine trees, a trickling stream, barn owls and woodpeckers… and a huge canvas bauble. Red Kite Tree Tent in Builth Wells, South Wales, is cosy bolthole meets Animals of Farthing Wood . It's far enough away from the Red Kite Barn rental to feel totally alone, but not so far from civilisation as to be Blair Witch Project. Sleep nestled like a couple of fledgling sparrows in a giant, aluminium-frame bird's nest suspended in the treetops. The tent itself sleeps two and is equipped with a woodburning stove, while decking leads to an outdoor shower, cooking facilities and a streamside dining area. There is complete, unadulterated seclusion here, leaving you to get up to whatever it is that lights your stove. The only neighbours likely to be spying on you are inquisitive squirrels. On arrival, guests are greeted with a hamper of luxury basics provided by Sheepskin holiday company, including coffee and Teapigs tea, gourmet fudge cookies, savoury biscuits made in the Brecon Beacons, and Sheepskin's own passionfruit curd.

Address: Red Kite Tree Tent, Builth Wells, Powys, Wales Website: chillderness.co.uk

Sennybridge Shepherds Hut Brecon Beacons Best for hiking the Brecons  In a private twoacre field with a pond and young...

Sennybridge Shepherd’s Hut, Brecon Beacons Best for: hiking the Brecons

In a private two-acre field with a pond and young fruit trees, this shepherd’s hut is well-placed for exploring the Brecon Beacons. Some of the most popular hikes in the area, including Pen y Fan and the Usk Reservoir, are about a 15-minute drive away; though closer to home, there’s a nice riverside walk to the village pub or a short trek up 1,312ft Cefn Llechid. When you return, there’s a hot tub to soak in, a hammock to lounge in and, if the weather’s too Welsh, a log burner to hunker down beside.

Address: Sennybridge Shepherds Huts, Hardwick Field, Sennybridge, Brecon, Powys. LD3 8SA Website: hipcamp.com

Headland Escape Pembrokeshire Best for spa breaks  At first glance theres not much to this glamping site with yurts...

Headland Escape, Pembrokeshire Best for: spa breaks

At first glance, there’s not much to this glamping site with yurts, shepherds’ huts and a cottage, which launched in 2020. Yurts have king-size beds, wooden furniture and solid floors – plus a kitchen shelter just outside – but look beyond the hedgerow, and you’ll really get the full picture. The site is next door to a high-end spa, with tennis courts, a good Italian restaurant and a menu of massage treatments, while it’s a 10-minute walk to the beach. The nearest is the great sand-and-shingle crescent of Lydstep Haven, but the coastal path also leads to quieter Church Doors Cove and Skrinkle Haven, only accessible by foot.

Address: Headland Escape, Home Farm Cottage, Lydstep, Tenby SA70 7SG Website: headlandescape.com ; hipcamp.com

Fforest Cardigan Best for dome glamping at its most evolved  Glamping has its yeasayers and its detractors who reckon...

Fforest, Cardigan Best for: dome glamping at its most evolved

Glamping has its yea-sayers and its detractors, who reckon that the more home comforts are added, the further away from twig-snapping, nature-immersed camping you stray. But have they ever stretched out in a Japanese -style onsen beneath oak trees, keeping quiet as a field mouse and watching sparrows flit from branch to branch above? Forest bathing, quite literally. Set on farmland just outside Cardigan, Fforest is another favourite getaway, far enough away from London to feel like a different time zone, with a carefree, go-slow sensibility but enough hands-on activities – den-building, foraging, tree-climbing, whittling – to keep young folk entertained. It’s the project of Sian Tucker and James Lynch, two former art students with a very clear idea of how to evolve their campsite, adding a low-key summer festival a couple of years ago and a book, Fforest: Being, Doing & Making in Nature , that should inspire any outdoor adventure. As for those onsen baths, they’re attached (along with a private loo and shower) to four of the campsite’s solar-powered domes – white geodesic canvas bubbles set on wooden platforms, with proper beds, wood-burning stoves and views of empty fields.

Address: Fforest farm, Cwm Plysgog, Cardigan, Cilgerran Website: coldatnight.co.uk

Culdees Castle Perthshire Best for spooky ruins  Opened in 2020 the original cedarclad cabin on this Scottish estate...

The best glamping in Scotland

Culdees Castle, Perthshire Best for: spooky ruins

Opened in 2020, the original cedar-clad cabin on this Scottish estate booked out so quickly that the owners decided to build two more, each in a similarly secluded setting among the trees. The curvaceous modern structures each have a fitted bed in a cove at one end and a bathroom at the other, while a raised deck leads to a private hot tub under festoon lighting. The grounds are vast, with trails to explore that lead to a semi-ruinous Gothic castle that’s currently undergoing restoration. The estate is midway between the towns of Crieff, where the Caithness Glass Centre is found, and Auchterarder, home to Gleneagles, which can both be reached by car.

Address: Culdees Castle Estate Glamping, Culdees Castle, Muthill, Perthshire PH5 2BA Website: hipcamp.com

Harvest Moon East Lothian Best for beach games  The big thrill here is watching your crew run wild by the sea...

Harvest Moon, East Lothian Best for: beach games

The big thrill here is watching your crew run wild by the sea, dune-sliding on sledges, and then telling stories by firelight. At camp, they will be kept busy wheelbarrowing logs, jumping on a giant, land-lubbed buoy, toasting marshmallows over the embers and hugging rabbits. Just 40 minutes drive from Edinburgh , these tents and newer stilted treehouses were set up by Alex Dale, banker turned glamper, whose farmer parents own the land. The decor is cute hippy, with hearts carved into wooden doors, and the wee kitchens have running water in Belfast sinks and a log-fuelled cooker (bring a moka pot for espresso). There's a flushing loo and hot shower behind each tent. Raid the honesty shop, housed in an old boat, for chocolate bars – off-site, there's Knowes Farm Shop for sticky toffee pud and other provisions, while North Berwick, seven miles away, has fish and chips , and the Herringbone gastro bar.

Address: Harvest Moon Holidays, Lochhouses Farm, Tyninghame, East Lothian, Scotland Website: harvestmoonholidays.com

Chesters Country Retreats Scottish Borders Best for safaristyle camping  A woodland glade in the grounds of a listed...

Chesters Country Retreats, Scottish Borders Best for: safari-style camping

A woodland glade in the grounds of a listed 18th-century stately home in the Scottish Borders. Chesters Estate is set on the River Teviot: 1,565 acres running riot with roe deer, rabbits, cattle and pheasants, and trout and salmon in the river – and glampers have the run of pretty much the lot of it. Sleep under canvas, in safari lodge-style Country Retreats. They're part of the Feather Down portfolio, and there are just four of them; each is beautifully lit, with two bedrooms, wood floors and furniture and wood-burning stoves, a kitchen and dining area, and lovely canopied terraces set with furniture, so you can sit and contemplate nature, or look out at the rain. A restaurant and farm shop selling local Borders produce, which joins the estate's own microbrewery. There's also a gastro pub, The Ancrum Cross Keys , which sits on a bank of the Ale Water, appropriately enough. We love The Secret Garden, where behind stone walls, there's a croquet lawn to play on and a vegetable garden to get a bellyful of. The home-brewed ales. The inside loos, outside showers and hot tubs. Bicycles for exploring the estate, and telescopes set up for stargazing.

Address: Chesters Estate, Jedburgh, Ancrum, Scottish Borders, Scotland Website: featherdown.co.uk

Alexander House Glamping Perthshire Best for enjoying the flora and fauna  With just two newly opened yurts and a...

Alexander House Glamping, Perthshire Best for: enjoying the flora and fauna

With just two newly opened yurts and a cabin-on-wheels, this place is a short hop from Gleneagles – owner Jo Lewis is cousin to the local laird – with hills to stride off into for the day, raspberries to gather and the scent of pine and heather on the breeze. Wildlife spotting includes red squirrels, hill hares and partridges nesting in the woodpile. Totally calming; it creates an immense feeling of being connected to the landscape.

Address: Alexander House, Auchterarder, Perthshire Website: enchantedglamping.co.uk

Ruberslaw Wild Woods Scottish Borders Best for kicking back with the kids  A familyrun operation with safari hideouts...

Ruberslaw Wild Woods, Scottish Borders Best for: kicking back with the kids

A family-run operation with safari hideouts for glampers, pitches inside an Edwardian walled garden and – in the woods at the foot of Ruberslaw Mountain, a good 15-minute walk from the rest – tents with views of the Cheviot Hills. Catch a glimpse of roe deer, then head to the reading room in the old greenhouse and settle down with a book beneath the rafter-high vine.

Address: Ruberslaw Wild Woods, Spital Tower Nr, Denholm, Hawick, Scotland Website: ruberslaw.co.uk

Roulotte Retreat Best for bohemian nomads  Indulge your inner Gypsy Seven roulottes  or Gypsy caravans  handmade in...

Roulotte Retreat Best for: bohemian nomads

Indulge your inner Gypsy! Seven roulottes – or Gypsy caravans – handmade in France (and one from Holland) have been transported to a meadow of wildflowers in the Eildon Hills, Scottish Borders. A burn babbles through it, down to the River Tweed. Sleep in ample beds and bohemian splendour: jewel-coloured drapery, tassels, Eastern textiles, intricately carved doors and shutters. Influences come from everywhere the Gypsies roamed, from India and the Orient, Persia and the Balkans. Make food yourself in the tiny wooden kitchen or on the fire (organic bread and produce can be ordered in, or seek out eggs from the hens roaming the meadow). Otherwise, take a trip to a nearby town and eat out. Try The Townhouse hotel's modern restaurant, or Marmions Brasserie , both in Melrose. When it comes to Glamping in the UK, few places take on the Romany spirit of this site: beauty within and without, in the dramatic, faraway location. The luxury extras here are all-natural: massage treatments, yoga classes, horseriding, fishing, and painting and writing in the studio. You can even elope here and get married on-site, a crown of wildflowers in your hair.

Address: Roulotte Retreat, near Melrose, Scottish Borders Website: roulotteretreat.com

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Best UK Travel Sites

Are you planning a trip to the United Kingdom but don't know where to start? Don't worry; we've got you covered. With so many amazing destinations, attractions, and experiences to choose from, it can be challenging to plan the perfect vacation. However, with the help of the best UK travel sites, you can easily book your flights, accommodation, tours, and more. In this article, we'll be highlighting the top UK travel sites that will make your trip planning hassle-free and enjoyable.

Table of Contents

1. visitbritain, 2. tripadvisor, 4. booking.com, 7. visitlondon, 8. national rail enquiries, 9. visitscotland, 10. visitwales.

Blue Whale Skeleton

VisitBritain is the official tourism website of the UK, offering a wealth of information on everything you need to know about travelling in the country. From finding the best attractions to providing visa information, VisitBritain is your one-stop-shop for all things UK travel-related.

TripAdvisor is a popular travel site that allows you to browse millions of reviews, opinions, and photos from travellers around the world. The site also features a variety of booking options for flights, hotels, and vacation rentals, making it an excellent choice for those looking to plan their trip in one place.

Expedia is a leading online travel agency that offers a wide range of travel services, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. With its user-friendly interface and competitive prices, Expedia is a go-to site for many travellers.

Booking.com is one of the world's leading hotel reservation sites, offering a vast selection of accommodations in the UK and beyond. With its easy-to-use platform, detailed property descriptions, and customer reviews, finding the perfect hotel for your UK trip has never been easier.

Airbnb is a popular vacation rental platform that allows you to book unique accommodations in the UK and around the world. Whether you're looking for a cozy apartment or a luxurious villa, Airbnb offers a wide range of options to suit your needs and budget.

Viator is a travel site that specializes in tours, activities, and experiences around the world. With its extensive selection of UK tours, from walking tours of London to day trips to Stonehenge, Viator is an excellent choice for travellers looking to explore the country's top attractions.

VisitLondon is the official tourism website of London, providing a wealth of information on everything the city has to offer. From finding the best places to eat and drink to exploring the city's top museums and galleries, VisitLondon is your ultimate guide to the UK's capital city.

National Rail Enquiries is the official website for UK train services, providing real-time information on train times, fares, and travel updates. Whether you're planning a trip to London or exploring the UK's countryside, National Rail Enquiries is an essential resource for any traveller.

If you're planning a trip to Scotland, VisitScotland is the official tourism website that provides information on the country's top destinations, attractions, and experiences. From exploring Edinburgh's historic landmarks to hiking in the Highlands, VisitScotland is your go-to guide for all things Scottish travel-related.

VisitWales is the official tourism website of Wales, offering a wealth of information on the country's top destinations, attractions, and events. Whether you're looking to explore the rugged coastline or discover the country's rich history, VisitWales has everything you need to plan your perfect Welsh adventure.

The UK is home to some of the world's most beautiful destinations, and with the help of these top travel sites, you can easily plan your dream trip. Whether you're looking for a cultural city break, a scenic road trip, or a relaxing beach getaway, these travel sites will help you find the best deals and experiences for your UK adventure. With detailed information, user reviews, and easy booking options, these sites make it simple to plan your trip and create unforgettable memories.

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Dress Hire: The Best Fashion Rental Sites In The UK

Where is the best place to rent those wedding guest dresses in the UK?

best fashion rental sites

In fact, individual consumer behaviour can have a huge impact. The Instagram account 1 million women reported that if everyone in the UK didn't buy new clothes 'for one day, the emissions saved would be equivalent to driving a car around the world 8,640 times'.

And there are worthwhile alternative options to buying new - namely, looking after what you have and shopping second-hand . However, sometimes the need for 'new' prevails, and when it does, why not try hiring clothes?

Already the norm in the US with websites like Rent The Runway , fashion rental platforms are increasingly making their way across the pond. And, its unsurprising since the sharing economy is growing rapidly and is projected to be valued at £269 billion by 2025, according to Forbes .

Be it a wedding guest dress , a Christmas party ensemble , a holiday-perfect wardrobe or a fashion-week ready handbag , some items or events feel like they are not worth investing in, and thats where dress hire comes in.

Though fashion rental isn't without its downsides , we already rent our homes, cars and even our dogs, and our clothes are next.

Here are the best places to rent a dress from now:

Net-A-Porter

best fashion rental sites

Luxury retail behemoth Net-A-Porter has joined the rental revolution. Partnering with both By Rotation (on their app) and HURR (on their website and app), the e-retailer has curated two party-ready edits, including the likes of Simone Rocha, 16Arlington and Taller Marmo to be rented for one night only.

However, there is one catch, with the edit only being available until January 2024, so you better get your skates on ASAP.

'Our first step into fashion rental brings an exciting opportunity to introduce Net-a-Porter’s exceptional curation of partywear to new and broader audiences,' Vikki Kavanagh, managing director of Net-a-Porter and Mr Porter explains.

'The launch of our rental edit is key to enriching the global ambitions of our circular fashion offer, inspired by our customers’ voices and their growing interest to keep exploring how we can extend the life of luxury products together.'

best fashion rental sites

The first rental platform to achieve certified B Corp™ status in 2022, HURR is comprised of peer-to-peer, preowned and brand rentals.

Now working with the likes of Nensi Dojaka and Coperni as official partners, alongside having a physical space in Selfridges and continuing to facilitate people sharing their own wardrobes, HURR's rental offering is one of, if not the, most expansive available in the UK.

'HURR is based on creating accessibility and a route to luxury fashion for a mainstream market,' CEO and co-founder of HURR Victoria Prew told ELLE UK.

We recommend you book in your New Year's Eve outfit right this second.

RENT FROM HURR NOW

best fashion rental sites

Powered by the aforementioned HURR, designer retailer Flannels have joined the rental game. Stylist Leah Abbott has joined the company's Creative Council and curated the green project, called The Dress-Up (which launched April 18) hoping to 'sex up' rental, and we think she's done the job.

Featuring epic pieces from Area, Mugler, Dion Lee and more, you can rent for a period of 4, 8, 10 and 20 days from the trusted brand.

RENT FROM FLANNELS NOW

By Rotation

best fashion rental sites

The first UK fashion rental service to have an app, and the only purely peer-to-peer platform, By Rotation is facilitating the sharing of people's personal wardrobes.

The platform also has a resale functionality. So if you've loved a borrowed item so much that you're dying to have it rest in your wardrobe forever, there might be an option to purchase it. Founder Eshita Kabra-Davies says, 'After receiving significant feedback from our Rotators to offer the option to sell an item (and selling two items myself directly on the app!), we are rewarding all our verified lenders with the ability to sell their pieces that are also available to rent. This is in line with our mission to transform fashion consumption for good.'

With everything from The Vampire's Wife dresses (very Kate Middleton ) from £50 a day to a Totême coat for £36, the rental options were already a great lure, so the new resale option is sure to bring even more popularity to the brand.

'Our aim is to make fashion circular and accessible to all,' Kabra-Davies told ELLE shortly after the app's launch.

RENT FROM BY ROTATION NOW

best rental websites 2023

New Zealand native, Meg O’Hara, founded Rites initially as a means of ‘celebrating rituals, seasonality and the idea that what is good for the planet is good for us.’ A few iterations later, and Rites has evolved to become a peer-to-peer rental site with one clear aim: to prove that feeling good doesn’t have to cost the earth.

‘We believe that the most sustainable garment is one that already exists,’ O’Hara tells ELLE . ‘We are here to help women feel their best every day, in a community where they can more freely express themselves and dress for the incredible lives they lead.’

With Rites, which hosted its first IRL pop-up on London's Broadway Market earlier this year, you can rent the cult labels you love, including Ganni, Self-Portrait and Aje, straight from somebody else's wardrobe and once you're done, return it with minimal fuss.

RENT FROM RITES NOW

dress hire   clothing rental 

An editor favourite, Cocoon has emerged as the premium bag rental (and resale) service. With Instagram-perfect handbags on offer from the likes of Bottega Veneta and Gucci from just £79 a month, it's no wonder the service (that has partnered with repair service The Restory to keep everything in top-notch condition) has been such a hit.

'We’re a subscription model, we’re bag experts, we’re on the pulse and we’re highly specialised in our approach. We also own all of our product, which means we can guarantee the selection and quality,' Cocoon co-founder and CEO Ceanne Fernandes-Wong informs ELLE UK.

'With our monthly membership model, Cocoon becomes a part of your daily life. You’re not loaning a handbag for a one-off occasion, you’re developing a long-term relationship with us and enjoying luxury more responsibly.'

RENT FROM COCOON NOW

best fashion rental sites

As part of Selfridges' sustainability initiative, Project Earth, the historic department store has put a curated selection of designer pieces up to rent.

Offering selections from the likes of Jacquemus, 16Arlington and Magde Butrym, Selfridges' rental means you can get the season's hottest pieces at a fraction of the cost.

RENT FROM SELFRIDGES NOW

best fashion rental sites

CLOAN is one of our favourite rental platforms. Not only does it offer £20 off your first order, but it also offers shoppers the chance to share the sustainable love and buy gift cards for friends to use, as well as inspiration of how other renters have styled their looks.

So how does it work? Well, rental options are broken down into 'occasions', whether you're looking for a look for a party, weekend away or girls night out, 'category', depending on the item you're on the search for and 'designers', listing the likes of Rixo and Shrimps, as well as Ganni and Chost's archive collection.

Better yet, CLOAN is now available at Fenwick and works with a whole list of creatives like Lindsey Holland and Jessica Skye, who provide their CLOAN edit to enable you to rent with their style choices in mind. Think of creatives like having a reliable, stylish fashion guru at your fingertips.

RENT FROM CLOAN NOW

best fashion rental sites

Housing brands such as Marks and Spencer, Rixo and Ghost, in sizes UK 4-20, Hirestreet is a stellar choice for your wedding guest dress options .

Complete with a try on service, and searchable by occasion, this is one of the most accessible options out there.

RENT FROM HIRESTREET NOW

MY WARDROBE HQ

best rental sites

Hosting both rental and resale (with a subscription service also available), MY WARDROBE HQ has over 500+ designers to choose from, making it likely the broadest selection available in UK rental sites. MWHQ also has next day delivery available, meaning you can choose a Gucci dress on Thursday, and have it ready to wear for the weekend ahead.

RENT FROM MY WARDROBE HQ NOW

For The Creators

best fashion rental sites

If the idea of buying new clothes for the length of a mere trimester fills you with eco-dread, For The Creators is here for your maternity and postnatal clothing needs.

Carrying brands such as Bump & Milk, Sezane and Whistles, For The Creators ensures you can feel like yourself no matter the shape your bump takes on. Plus, they plant a tree in partnership with Ecologi for every rental order received.

RENT FROM FOR THE CREATORS NOW

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10 of the best UK destinations for spring travel

From the Yorkshire moors to the Cornish seaside, these alluring spots make for a classic British holiday.

Whether you’re longing to fill your lungs with sea air or are looking to spend some quiet days rambling through the countryside, these UK destinations are all perfectly suited to spring travel. From the ‘Queen of Welsh resorts’ to the region that’s home to the UK’s rarest butterfly species, these are 10 of the best destinations to escape to this Easter holiday and beyond.

1. North York Moors

Driving into the North York Moors National Park is a bit like delving into the pages of The Secret Garden — it was indeed these heather-clothed moorlands that inspired Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1911 novel. Granted, this pocket of North Yorkshire might not be such a secret — its hiking paths, country pubs and historic villages have magnetic appeal, and for good reason. Throw in the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which sits on the southern edge of the national park, and you’ve got yourself one of the UK’s most idyllic getaways.  

( Follow in the footsteps of monks and literary giants on the North York Moors ).  

2. Llandudno

A Victorian favourite once billed as the ‘Queen of Welsh resorts’, Llandudno has kept much of the charm that made it so popular. The curving promenade framing Llandudno Bay, the aroma of fish and chips wafting in the air, pastel-coloured art deco houses lining the seafront and old-fashioned amusements on Llandudno Pier all combine to deliver a quintessential British seaside break. The town also serves as gateway to a wealth of natural attractions in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park and water-based adventures in Colwyn Bay. And a stay in Llandudno can be combined with a trip to Conwy , across the river of the same name, which has a mighty castle and Britain’s smallest house.

( A break in Llandudno, a vintage Welsh beachside resort with enduring appeal ).

Hotel in Wales

3. Stour Valley

The beauty of the River Stour and its valley has long attracted artists, not least John Constable, whose paintings gave the area its ‘Constable Country’ sobriquet. This slice of Essex and Suffolk countryside, with its mills, vineyards and walking trails, continues to inspire to this day. In Dedham, one of its most popular villages, the Art   &   Craft Centre has work from over 60 artisans and collectors for sale; to get involved, join a painting course at the 15th-century manor house of Dedham Hall .    

( A UK break in the Stour Valley — the scenic, underexplored corner of Essex ).  

It has the country pubs, antique shops and honey-hued market towns of the Cotswolds, and the chilled, waterside vibe of the Lake District, and yet many haven’t heard of it. Rutland , England’s smallest county, takes its Latin motto to heart: multum in parvo, much in little. Midway between Cambridge and Nottingham, in the East Midlands, with the 3,100-acre inland sea of Rutland Water at its heart, it’s a place that feels made for a restorative weekend break — and with countryside bolthole The Barnsdale getting a recent makeover, there’s never been a better time to go.  

( A UK break in Rutland — waterside adventure in England's smallest county ).  

a man wind surfing

5. Winchester

Alfred the Great made Winchester England’s first capital in 871, and the Hampshire city long remained at the centre of the action. Narrow streets of medieval and Georgian buildings hint at its past. The nearby South Downs National Park can also be accessed via the South Downs Way. A 100-mile-long walking and cycling route, the trail starts in Winchester and stretches to Eastbourne.  

( A UK break in Winchester: history and South Downs hikes in Hampshire ).  

6. Falmouth

Visit Falmouth and you’ll experience a traditional Cornish seaside town embracing its creative side. A pageant of history has sailed through its deep-water harbour — some of it illicit, with ties to piracy in the 18th century. Locals remain tethered to the tides, with a family-run fishery supplying restaurants, and paddleboarders gliding down the estuary.

But what really sets Falmouth apart is its brush with creativity, buoyed by the students enrolled at its two universities — one among the UK’s best for the arts. Indie theatre, music, comedy and art exhibitions fill small venues' listings, while the annual (and free) sea shanty and oyster festivals are firm fixtures on locals’ calendars.  

( A UK break in Falmouth: Cornish maritime history on the South West Coast Path ).  

Books about seaweed and fresh ingredients including lemon and basil on a table.

7. Arnside and Silverdale  

Many bypass Arnside and Silverdale, touching Morecambe Bay to the west and the Lake District to the north, on their journey along the M6 motorway. Detour to this AONB — one of the smallest in the UK — and you’re in for a surprise. The region spans just 29sq miles, but its diversity belies its humble size, with woodland, limestone hills and a coastal area all linked by a network of paths. Trails start right from Arnside station, which has direct rail connections to Lancaster and Manchester and e-bikes available for rental at Ease E Ride .  

( A UK break to Arnside and Silverdale, the little-known region of natural wonders ).

8. Monmouthshire

Monmouthshire is a stunner: this county in southeast Wales packs a punch with moody mountains, market towns, meandering rivers and Michelin-starred restaurants. It encompasses some of Britain’s best scenery, spanning the dramatic Black Mountains in the north to the Eden-esque Wye Valley, an AONB that sprawls over the border into England, making it an excellent getaway for lovers of the outdoors.  

The county’s length is stitched with walking trails — including the Wye Valley Greenway, which opened in 2021 — that take in pastoral fields, plump forested hills, scores of sleepy castles and the majestic monastic ruins of Tintern Abbey on the River Wye’s banks. Laid-back towns peppered across Monmouthshire include floral Usk, mediaeval Monmouth and the creative and culinary hub of Abergavenny. The latter is lined with indie shops selling art supplies, wild blooms, fermented sourdough loaves, Welsh-made children’s clothing and small-batch coffee. It’s also home to a clutch of celebrated restaurants that plate up knee-slappingly good grub — the town also hosts the renowned Abergavenny Food Festival each September.

( A UK break in Monmouthshire: Tintern Abbey, Michelin-starred food and hiking ).  

The ruins of Tintern Abbey.

9. Forest of Bowland

Sandwiched between the great cities of Manchester and Liverpool to the south, and the beauty spots of the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales to the north, the Forest of Bowland is every bit as enchanting as its more famous neighbours. This is a land with a deep history peopled by Vikings, witches and kings; where the patchwork fields, coaching inns and pretty villages evoke a sense of time out of mind.

A designated AONB, its gorgeous landscapes are more diverse than its name suggests, with the woodlands of the Lune Valley ascending to the wild moorlands of the Bowland Fells. The new Eco Escapes initiative connects them with local food producers, pubs and B & Bs by public transport, meaning it’s never been easier to explore the region in an eco-minded way.  

( What to do in the Forest of Bowland, Lancashire ).  

10. Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay was once best known for its caravan parks and fairground attractions, but things have changed over the past decade. Major refurbishments have blown the dust off this arty corner of Tyne and Wear, helping to place the old seaside favourite firmly back on the map.  

The mile-long sandy beach, which has been Blue Flag-certified every year since 1994, is a big draw. Brave locals swim and paddleboard year-round, and surfers are well served by North Atlantic swells.

( A UK break in Whitley Bay: Northeast seafood, beach strolls and the Spanish City ).  

Related Topics

  • FAMILY TRAVEL
  • TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE
  • CULTURAL TOURISM
  • FOOD TOURISM

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Sharon Beshenivsky: Alleged robbery mastermind was 'eating sandwiches' when officers were shot, court hears

Police officers Sharon Beshenivsky and Teresa Milburn were shot while responding to a raid at a travel agents in Bradford in November 2005. PC Beshenivsky died from her injuries while PC Milburn was shot in the chest but survived.

Wednesday 20 March 2024 15:50, UK

PC Sharon Beshenivsky died while attending a robbery at a travel agent in 2005

The alleged mastermind of an armed robbery was eating sandwiches in a lookout car when a police officer was fatally shot and another injured, a court has heard.

Unarmed police constables Sharon Beshenivsky and Teresa Milburn were shot at point-blank range in November 2005.

They were responding to a raid at Universal Express travel agents in Bradford , West Yorkshire.

PC Beshenivsky, 38, died from her injuries while PC Milburn was shot in the chest but survived.

Leeds Crown Court has heard a total of seven men were involved in carrying out the raid, with alleged ringleader Piran Ditta Khan the last to face trial almost two decades on.

traveller sites uk

On Wednesday, Khan, 75, said he was in a Mercedes SLK with one of his fellow robbers, Hassan Razzaq, while the raid was being carried out.

He told jurors Razzaq, who he met through a business acquaintance, had offered to help him get back £12,000 he was owed by Mohammad Yousaf, the owner of Universal Express.

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Khan says he thought the men Razzaq sent to get the money would "intimidate" the staff there but denied any knowledge of a robbery or the use of guns.

The defendant said he and Razzaq were eating sandwiches just before driving away from the scene in the wake of the robbery.

"We were eating sandwiches. He said 'uncle, quickly shut the door'. I shut the door and he drove off," he said.

Teresa Milburn

Khan said he did not know two officers had been shot until the group got back to a house in Leeds.

Prosecutor Robert Smith KC asked Khan about a call made from one of the other robbers to Razzaq just after 3.30pm - when Razzaq and Khan were in the car together and the two officers were "lying on the pavement outside Universal Express".

Khan said he did not hear anything that was said in the call and was not paying attention.

The defendant denied organising the events that day, saying: "It wasn't my planning. It must be their planning - all I knew was I needed my money and they were responsible to get that for me."

Jurors heard how PC Beshenivsky and PC Milburn were shot by one of three men who had just carried out the robbery, with the gunman then firing indiscriminately as they fled the scene.

traveller sites uk

Prosecutors say although Khan did not leave the lookout car during the raid, he is guilty of PC Beshenivsky's murder because of his "pivotal" role in planning the robbery knowing that loaded weapons were to be used.

They claim Khan was the only one of the group who was familiar with Universal Express after using the business to send money to family in Pakistan.

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traveller sites uk

Khan denies murder, two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and two counts of possession of a prohibited weapon. He has pleaded guilty to robbery.

The trial continues.

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traveller sites uk

  • Housing, local and community
  • Planning and building
  • Planning system

Planning policy for traveller sites

  • Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities
  • Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government

Updated 19 December 2023

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© Crown copyright 2023

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/planning-policy-for-traveller-sites/planning-policy-for-traveller-sites

1. Introduction

1. This document sets out the government’s planning policy for traveller [footnote 1] sites. It should be read in conjunction with the National Planning Policy Framework . See Guidance on the Framework .

2. Planning law requires that applications for planning permission must be determined in accordance with the development plan, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. This policy must be taken into account in the preparation of development plans, and is a material consideration in planning decisions [footnote 2] . Local planning authorities preparing plans for and taking decisions on traveller sites should also have regard to the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework so far as relevant.

3. The government’s overarching aim is to ensure fair and equal treatment for travellers, in a way that facilitates the traditional and nomadic way of life of travellers while respecting the interests of the settled community.

4. To help achieve this, government’s aims in respect of traveller sites are:

a. that local planning authorities should make their own assessment of need for the purposes of planning

b. to ensure that local planning authorities, working collaboratively, develop fair and effective strategies to meet need through the identification of land for sites

c. to encourage local planning authorities to plan for sites over a reasonable timescale

d. that plan-making and decision-taking should protect Green Belt from inappropriate development

e. to promote more private traveller site provision while recognising that there will always be those travellers who cannot provide their own sites

f. that plan-making and decision-taking should aim to reduce the number of unauthorised developments and encampments and make enforcement more effective

g. for local planning authorities to ensure that their Local Plan includes fair, realistic and inclusive policies

h. to increase the number of traveller sites in appropriate locations with planning permission, to address under provision and maintain an appropriate level of supply

i. to reduce tensions between settled and traveller communities in plan-making and planning decisions

j. to enable provision of suitable accommodation from which travellers can access education, health, welfare and employment infrastructure

k. for local planning authorities to have due regard to the protection of local amenity and local environment

5. To benefit those engaged in planning for traveller sites, specific planning policies for traveller sites are clearly set out in this separate document. The government intends to review this policy when fair and representative practical results of its implementation are clear.

6. The government still intends to review in the future whether Planning Policy for Traveller Sites should be incorporated within the wider National Planning Policy Framework. This will be considered as part of any wider review of the Framework.

2. Using evidence

Policy a: using evidence to plan positively and manage development.

7. In assembling the evidence base necessary to support their planning approach, local planning authorities should:

a) pay particular attention to early and effective community engagement with both settled and traveller communities (including discussing travellers’ accommodation needs with travellers themselves, their representative bodies and local support groups)

b) cooperate with travellers, their representative bodies and local support groups; other local authorities and relevant interest groups to prepare and maintain an up-to-date understanding of the likely permanent and transit accommodation needs of their areas over the lifespan of their development plan, working collaboratively with neighbouring local planning authorities

c) use a robust evidence base to establish accommodation needs to inform the preparation of local plans and make planning decisions

3. Plan-making

Policy b: planning for traveller sites.

8. Local Plans must be prepared with the objective of contributing to the achievement of sustainable development. To this end, they should be consistent with the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework, including the presumption in favour of sustainable development and the application of specific policies in the Framework, and this planning policy for traveller sites.

9. Local planning authorities should set pitch targets for gypsies and travellers as defined in Annex 1 and plot targets for travelling showpeople as defined in Annex 1 which address the likely permanent and transit site accommodation needs of travellers in their area, working collaboratively with neighbouring local planning authorities [footnote 3] .

10. Local planning authorities should, in producing their Local Plan:

a) identify and update annually, a supply of specific deliverable sites sufficient to provide 5 years’ worth of sites against their locally set targets [footnote 4]

b) identify a supply of specific, developable sites, or broad locations for growth, for years 6 to 10 and, where possible, for years 11-15 [footnote 5]

c) consider production of joint development plans that set targets on a cross-authority basis, to provide more flexibility in identifying sites, particularly if a local planning authority has special or strict planning constraints across its area (local planning authorities have a duty to cooperate on planning issues that cross administrative boundaries)

d) relate the number of pitches or plots to the circumstances of the specific size and location of the site and the surrounding population’s size and density

e) protect local amenity and environment

11. Criteria should be set to guide land supply allocations where there is identified need. Where there is no identified need, criteria-based policies should be included to provide a basis for decisions in case applications nevertheless come forward. Criteria based policies should be fair and should facilitate the traditional and nomadic life of travellers while respecting the interests of the settled community.

12. In exceptional cases, where a local planning authority is burdened by a large-scale unauthorised site that has significantly increased their need, and their area is subject to strict and special planning constraints, then there is no assumption that the local planning authority is required to plan to meet their traveller site needs in full.

13.Local planning authorities should ensure that traveller sites are sustainable economically, socially and environmentally. Local planning authorities should, therefore, ensure that their policies:

a) promote peaceful and integrated co-existence between the site and the local community

b) promote, in collaboration with commissioners of health services, access to appropriate health services

c) ensure that children can attend school on a regular basis

d) provide a settled base that reduces both the need for long-distance travelling and possible environmental damage caused by unauthorised encampment

e) provide for proper consideration of the effect of local environmental quality (such as noise and air quality) on the health and well-being of any travellers that may locate there or on others as a result of new development

f) avoid placing undue pressure on local infrastructure and services

g) do not locate sites in areas at high risk of flooding, including functional floodplains, given the particular vulnerability of caravans

h) reflect the extent to which traditional lifestyles (whereby some travellers live and work from the same location thereby omitting many travel to work journeys) can contribute to sustainability.

Policy C: Sites in rural areas and the countryside

14. When assessing the suitability of sites in rural or semi-rural settings, local planning authorities should ensure that the scale of such sites does not dominate the nearest settled community.

Policy D: Rural exception sites

15. If there is a lack of affordable land to meet local traveller needs, local planning authorities in rural areas, where viable and practical, should consider allocating and releasing sites solely for affordable traveller sites. This may include using a rural exception site policy for traveller sites that should also be used to manage applications. A rural exception site policy enables small sites to be used, specifically for affordable traveller sites, in small rural communities, that would not normally be used for traveller sites [footnote 6] . Rural exception sites should only be used for affordable traveller sites in perpetuity. A rural exception site policy should seek to address the needs of the local community by accommodating households who are either current residents or have an existing family or employment connection, whilst also ensuring that rural areas continue to develop as sustainable, mixed, inclusive communities.

Policy E: Traveller sites in Green Belt

16. Inappropriate development is harmful to the Green Belt and should not be approved, except in very special circumstances. Traveller sites (temporary or permanent) in the Green Belt are inappropriate development. Subject to the best interests of the child, personal circumstances and unmet need are unlikely to clearly outweigh harm to the Green Belt and any other harm so as to establish very special circumstances.

17. Green Belt boundaries should be altered only in exceptional circumstances. If a local planning authority wishes to make an exceptional, limited alteration to the defined Green Belt boundary (which might be to accommodate a site inset within the Green Belt) to meet a specific, identified need for a traveller site, it should do so only through the plan-making process and not in response to a planning application. If land is removed from the Green Belt in this way, it should be specifically allocated in the development plan as a traveller site only.

Policy F: Mixed planning use traveller sites

18. Local planning authorities should consider, wherever possible, including traveller sites suitable for mixed residential and business uses, having regard to the safety and amenity of the occupants and neighbouring residents. Local planning authorities should consider the scope for identifying separate sites for residential and for business purposes in close proximity to one another if mixed sites are not practical.

19. Local planning authorities should have regard to the need that travelling showpeople have for mixed-use yards to allow residential accommodation and space for storage of equipment.

20. Local planning authorities should not permit mixed use on rural exception sites.

Policy G: Major development projects

21. Local planning authorities should work with the planning applicant and the affected traveller community to identify a site or sites suitable for relocation of the community if a major development proposal requires the permanent or temporary relocation of a traveller site. Local planning authorities are entitled to expect the applicant to identify and provide an alternative site, providing the development on the original site is authorised.

4. Decision-taking

Policy h: determining planning applications for traveller sites.

22. Planning law requires that applications for planning permission must be determined in accordance with the development plan [footnote 7] , unless material considerations indicate otherwise [footnote 8] .

23. Applications should be assessed and determined in accordance with the presumption in favour of sustainable development and the application of specific policies in the National Planning Policy Framework and this planning policy for traveller sites.

24. Local planning authorities should consider the following issues amongst other relevant matters when considering planning applications for traveller sites:

a) the existing level of local provision and need for sites

b) the availability (or lack) of alternative accommodation for the applicants

c) other personal circumstances of the applicant

d) that the locally specific criteria used to guide the allocation of sites in plans or which form the policy where there is no identified need for pitches/plots should be used to assess applications that may come forward on unallocated sites

e) that they should determine applications for sites from any travellers and not just those with local connections

However, as paragraph 16 makes clear, subject to the best interests of the child, personal circumstances and unmet need are unlikely to clearly outweigh harm to the Green Belt and any other harm so as to establish very special circumstances.

25. Local planning authorities should very strictly limit new traveller site development in open countryside that is away from existing settlements or outside areas allocated in the development plan. Local planning authorities should ensure that sites in rural areas respect the scale of, and do not dominate, the nearest settled community, and avoid placing an undue pressure on the local infrastructure.

26. When considering applications, local planning authorities should attach weight to the following matters:

a) effective use of previously developed (brownfield), untidy or derelict land

b) sites being well planned or soft landscaped in such a way as to positively enhance the environment and increase its openness

c) promoting opportunities for healthy lifestyles, such asensuring adequate landscaping and play areas for children

d) not enclosing a site with so much hard landscaping, high walls or fences, that the impression may be given that the site and its occupants are deliberately isolated from the rest of the community

27. If a local planning authority cannot demonstrate an up-to-date 5 year supply of deliverable sites, this should be a significant material consideration in any subsequent planning decision when considering applications for the grant of temporary planning permission [footnote 9] . The exception is where the proposal is on land designated as Green Belt; sites protected under the Birds and Habitats Directives and / or sites designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest; Local Green Space, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or within a National Park (or the Broads).

28. Local planning authorities should consider how they could overcome planning objections to particular proposals using planning conditions or planning obligations including:

a) limiting which parts of a site may be used for any business operations, in order to minimise the visual impact and limit the effect of noise

b) specifying the number of days the site can be occupied by more than the allowed number of caravans (which permits visitors and allows attendance at family or community events)

c) limiting the maximum number of days for which caravans might be permitted to stay on a transit site

Policy I: Implementation

29. The policies in this revised Planning Policy for Traveller Sites apply from the day of publication. This replaces the version published in March 2012.

30. The implementation policies set out in the National Planning Policy Framework will apply also to plan-making and decision-taking for traveller sites. In applying those implementation provisions to traveller sites, references in those provisions to policies in the National Planning Policy Framework should, where relevant, be read to include policies in this planning policy for traveller sites.

Annex 1: Glossary

1. For the purposes of this planning policy “gypsies and travellers” means:

Persons of nomadic habit of life whatever their race or origin, including such persons who on grounds only of their own or their family’s or dependants’ educational or health needs or old age have ceased to travel temporarily or permanently, but excluding members of an organised group of travelling showpeople or circus people travelling together as such.

2. In determining whether persons are “gypsies and travellers” for the purposes of this planning policy, consideration should be given to the following issues amongst other relevant matters:

a) whether they previously led a nomadic habit of life b) the reasons for ceasing their nomadic habit of life c) whether there is an intention of living a nomadic habit of life in the future, and if so, how soon and in what circumstances.

3. For the purposes of this planning policy, “travelling showpeople” means:

Members of a group organised for the purposes of holding fairs, circuses or shows (whether or not travelling together as such). This includes such persons who on the grounds of their own or their family’s or dependants’ more localised pattern of trading, educational or health needs or old age have ceased to travel temporarily or permanently, but excludes Gypsies and Travellers as defined above.

4. For the purposes of this planning policy, “travellers” means “gypsies and travellers” and “travelling showpeople” as defined above.

5. For the purposes of this planning policy, “pitch” means a pitch on a “gypsy and traveller” site and “plot” means a pitch on a “travelling showpeople” site (often called a “yard”). This terminology differentiates between residential pitches for “gypsies and travellers” and mixed-use plots for “travelling showpeople”, which may / will need to incorporate space or to be split to allow for the storage of equipment

See Annex 1 for the definition of traveller for the purposes of this statement.  ↩

Sections 19(2)(a) and 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and section 70(2) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. In relation to neighbourhood plans, under section 38B and C and paragraph 8(2) of new Schedule 4B to the 2004 Act (inserted by the Localism Act 2011 section 116 and Schedules 9 and 10) the independent examiner will consider whether having regard to national policy is appropriate to make the plan.  ↩

See Annex 1 for definitions of ‘pitch’ and ‘plot’.  ↩

To be considered deliverable, sites should be available now, offer a suitable location for development, and be achievable with a realistic prospect that development will be delivered on the site within 5 years. Sites with planning permission should be considered deliverable until permission expires, unless there is clear evidence that schemes will not be implemented within 5 years, for example they will not be viable, there is no longer a demand for the type of units or sites have long-term phasing plans.  ↩

To be considered developable, sites should be in a suitable location for traveller site development and there should be a reasonable prospect that the site is available and could be viably developed at the point envisaged.  ↩

Small rural settlements have been designated for enfranchisement and right to acquire purposes (under section 17 of the Housing Act 1996) by SI 1997/620-25 inclusive and 1999/1307.  ↩

Section 38(1) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004: this includes adopted or approved development plan documents i.e. the Local Plan and neighbourhood plans which have been made in relation to the area (and the London Plan).  ↩

Section 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and section 70(2) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.  ↩

There is no presumption that a temporary grant of planning permission should be granted permanently. For further guidance please see Use of planning conditions (paragraph 14).  ↩

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Ranked: the 20 happiest countries in the world in 2024, according to a new report.

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Finland has done it again. The 2024 World Happiness Report is out, and for the seventh year in a row, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world.

But the news isn’t as good for the United States—which has hit a new low. The U.S. didn’t even make the top 20 list—the first time it has ranked so poorly since the World Happiness Report was created in 2012.

This annual report ranks global happiness in more than 140 countries around the world. The ranking is based on six factors—social support, income, health, freedom, generosity and absence of corruption—using data from sources including the Gallup World Poll. Released every year in honor of the International Day of Happiness on March 20, it is a partnership between several outlets including the Sustainable Development Solutions Network, Gallup and the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre.

Finland was named the happiest country for the seventh year in a row.

This year’s top 10 list is similar to past rankings in 2023 , 2022 , 2021 , 2020 and 2019 , with many of the Nordic countries in the highest spots. Denmark once again took the number two spot, followed by Iceland (number three) and Sweden (number four). Norway ranked number seven.

Last year, the United States came in at number 15. For 2024, the U.S. plummeted to number 23. Even countries like Costa Rica and Lithuania—new entrants to the top 20 list—ranked higher. The reason? Happiness is lower in the U.S., especially among younger people

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The list also looked at happiest places broken down by age. The world’s happiest country for people under 30? Lithuania. The U.S. didn’t fare as well: For people under 30, it ranked number 62.

The winner for people over 60: Denmark. The U.S. did better for this age group, coming in at number 10.

Happiness levels dropped in the U.S.—especially among millennials.

According to the report, the older population is now much happier than younger people in countries like Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, the United Kingdom and Spain. It’s the opposite in Portugal and Greece—where young residents are happier than older residents.

There was also data showing that children are becoming less happy. “Piecing together the available data on the wellbeing of children and adolescents around the world, we documented disconcerting drops especially in North America and Western Europe. To think that, in some parts of the world, children are already experiencing the equivalent of a mid-life crisis demands immediate policy action,” Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, director of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre, professor of economics and behavioral science at Saïd Business School and an editor of the World Happiness Report, said in a release.

Loneliness was another big trend noted in the report. “There is widespread concern, especially in the United States, about an emerging epidemic of loneliness, and about the consequences of loneliness for mental and physical health,” wrote the authors of the report. Though interestingly, it wasn’t the oldest residents that were experiencing loneliness: “North America loneliness is almost twice as high among the Millennials as among those born before 1965.”

One big surprise this year: Israel came in at number 5, despite the war with Hamas. But according to the authors of the report, the rankings are based on a three-year average, which can skew the numbers. (Israel has ranked in the top 10 on the happiness report since 2022.) “In the case of cataclysmic events happening during a particular year, their effect on the rankings will depend on when the survey took place, and will be muted by the three-year averaging,” wrote the authors of the report. “In the case of the October 7th attack on Israel and the subsequent war between Israel and Hamas, the survey in Palestine took place earlier in the year and the Israel survey after the hostage taking but before much of the subsequent warfare.”

At the bottom of the list for 2024 was Afghanistan, which—once again—was named the unhappiest country in the world. Rounding out the list of the five low-ranking countries were Lebanon, Lesotho, Sierra Leone and Congo.

Read on for the top 20 happiest countries in the world in 2024. You can see the entire list here .

An aerial view of Helsinki in Finland, which has been named the happiest country in the world in ... [+] 2024.

World’s 20 Happiest Countries In 2024

  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • New Zealand
  • United Kingdom

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