Elm Retreat, part of the Riverside Retreats at Blencowe Hall in Cumbria, offers guests a secluded glamping experience designed to combine comfort with sustainability.
Situated along the River Petteril in the Eden Valley, the retreat is located just over a mile from Greystoke Village and approximately four miles from the Lake District National Park, one of England’s most well-known rural destinations.
The retreat’s shepherd’s hut-style accommodation has been architecturally designed to make the most of its compact space.
Inside, guests will find an open-plan layout featuring a kitchen equipped with a gas hob, oven, and fridge, as well as a Scandinavian-style shower room with a flushing toilet and heated towel rail.
The living area converts into a sleeping space with a fold-down five-foot king-size bed with Egyptian cotton bedding and a Vispring mattress.
Elm Retreat emphasizes privacy and a low-impact stay, powered by solar energy and gas. Outside, guests can use a Weber charcoal barbecue, fire pit, and locally sourced logs.
The site also includes access to shared electric vehicle chargers and an allocated parking space at Blencowe Hall. A small welcome hamper featuring bread, eggs, butter, homemade raspberry jam, granola, and locally produced organic apple juice is provided upon arrival.
While Elm Retreat does not allow pets or children, infants under 12 months are welcome. The retreat operates year-round, catering to visitors seeking tranquility and immersion in nature.
Activities available on the Blencowe Estate include clay pigeon shooting, brown trout fishing, and pony trekking, while nearby attractions such as Dalemain House and Gardens, Appleby Castle, and the Settle-Carlisle Railway offer opportunities for cultural exploration.
Guests can also swim by arrangement at the outdoor Greystoke Village Pool or explore cycling routes, including the C2C trail.
For business owners and operators in the outdoor hospitality and glamping sectors, Elm Retreat reflects broader trends in the market—prioritizing sustainable infrastructure, privacy, and high-end amenities within small-scale accommodations.
Its use of solar power, integration with the natural landscape, and alignment with eco-conscious travel preferences demonstrate how rural tourism properties can meet rising consumer expectations while maintaining low environmental impact.
Featured image by Elm Retreat via glampinghideaways.co.uk