Cumbria offers one of the most striking natural landscapes in the UK. With two national parks, a scattering of pristine lakes, indomitable hills and England’s highest peak at Scafell Pike, the best way to really embrace the unrelenting outdoors is through the comfort of glamping pods. The pods provide both a modern and minimalist way to experience it all, without sacrificing as much comfort or amenities as one would if they wild camped in a tent overnight.
The best examples offer high-spec interiors, excellent access to the walking trails and wild swimming spots of the Lakes, and a design aesthetic that sits quietly within the rural setting rather than dominating it. Many come with log-burners, outdoor tubs, and panoramic windows to immerse you in the scenery, but retain the self-contained intimacy and isolation that anchors the setting.
The Yan at Broadrayne
Nestled on Broadrayne Farm just outside Grasmere village, The Yan's two luxury micro‑lodge pods sit in an elevated position out the back of the property, with uninterrupted views of the Central Fells. These bespoke pods offer a romantic retreat for couples and a practical respite for hikers. Furnished inside with king‑size beds, underfloor heating, wood‑burning stove, compact kitchen, luxury ensuite shower, and eco‑friendly toiletries, the pods run largely on‑farm hydropower and biomass systems, with each pod opening up onto private decking with seating and a superb view to savour sunsets over Helvellyn.
Pod stays include full access to The Yan’s acclaimed bistro, which serves rustic Cumbrian dishes in a chic barn‑restaurant atmosphere, and breakfast hampers can be delivered to the pods fresh for every morning. Walks begin right out the door, with the Coast‑to‑Coast trail passing the farm and Grasmere village just a short stroll away. The minimum stay policy is two nights, but one will definitely wish to linger longer at this stunning property.
Kentmere Farm Pods
Set on a traditional working family farm deep in the Kentmere Valley between Kendal and Lake Windermere, the farm’s dual pods offer a rustic but high‑quality glamping option for up to four guests. Each timber‑built pod includes a double bed, sofa‑bed, ensuite wet‑room, underfloor heating, kitchenette and generous outdoor decking with a picnic bench to take in the stunning views. The pods are comfy, yet practical, and the views cement the experience for visitors.
Surrounded by 500 acres of lush farmland and native woodland, guests can enjoy wildlife spotting some of the area’s inhabitants, from buzzards to barn owls, Highland cattle and more. The real highlight is the chance to explore on walks and mountain‑biking routes right off the doorstep. Sublime during summer, yet equally stunning to stay in over winter, these strategically placed pods tick all the boxes for a modern glamping experience in the wild.
The Herdwick Huts
When it comes to location, it is nearly impossible to find a better selection of huts in Cumbria. At Herdwick, five handcrafted shepherd’s-hut-style accommodations sit on a secluded farm site beneath the Fairfield Horseshoe. Each hut sleeps up to two adults (plus one child on a bunk option), and offers central heating, memory‑foam mattresses, oak flooring, a wood‑burning stove, double‑glazed windows and outside bench with a brazier.
It is a more stripped-back experience than some of the others on this list, but the location boasts stunning views toward Rydal Water, woodland sculpture paths and nearby waterfalls. It also sits close to classic walking routes, including the Coffin Route and Fairfield Ridge. This is a glamping experience which really puts you right in the throes of nature, opening up instant avenues for exploring and adventure, which are hard to match, let alone surpass anywhere else in Cumbria.
Eden Valley Glamping
Nestled in woodland north of Carlisle, Eden Valley Glamping offers guests pods and shepherd's box style options to enjoy their stay in the lush green hills of the valley. The ensuite pods include built-in kitchens, underfloor heating and optional hot tubs, set among meadow clearings and crops of woods. The site includes a sauna, pizza oven, beer fridge and wood-fired fire pit for guest use.
The Eden Valley is a less-explored part of Cumbria that finds itself perfectly placed between the Lake District's majestic beauty and the medieval cityscape of Carlisle. It's an ideal go-between for exploring the highest of heights, and the stunning south coast of Cumbria, with options for a glamping experience that is poised firmly between two very different worlds.
Coniston Pods
Immediately adjacent to ancient woodland and under five minutes’ walk from Coniston Water, these ensuite pods sit discreetly on the Coniston Outdoor Centre grounds. Each pod features a hot tub, kitchenette, private decking, and cosy interiors with underfloor heating and comfortable sleeping to stave off the winter chill, but are light and airy during the summer.
The pods are especially popular with walkers and water enthusiasts keen to paddle, sail or wander the Old Man of Coniston. There are almost as many pods to choose from and stay in here as the other entries on this list combined, making it one of the easiest destinations to book a waterside glamping experience that packs a lot in with every trip away.
The Hive Pod Village at Ghyll Head
Situated in woodland beside Ghyll Head hotel grounds, this small village of nine similar sized glamping quarters offers both family and dog-friendly pods that are capable of sleeping up to five individuals. The pods are equipped with the usual amenities, with some having the option of a hot tub included for an added premium, offering a certain amount more personal luxury.
Located just a stone's throw down the road from Lake Windermere, Ghyll Head is one of the best-placed glamping sites to make the most of the crown jewel of Lake District. Whether windsurfing, paddleboarding or swimming during summer, hiking the snowy trails during the winter months or traversing the woods by mountain bike, Ghyll Head is the best place to base oneself for glamping in this part of Cumbria.
