Lunsford Farm, located between Hastings and Rye in East Sussex, continues to operate as both a working farm and a glamping destination, blending traditional agriculture with rural tourism.
The fourth-generation family farm, currently run by Andrew Dunlop, has been in his family since 1888.
Known for producing salt marsh lamb, the farm remains an active agricultural site while welcoming guests for glamping stays on a hilltop overlooking Pett Level and Winchelsea.
The glamping site at Lunsford Farm includes four canvas tents, each designed to accommodate families or small groups. The tents are equipped with two bedrooms, a fully functioning toilet, and a child-sized cubby sleeping area.
Guests have access to a range of amenities, including a dining table for six, a sofa, and essential kitchen items. Heating is provided by a log burner inside the tent, while outdoor facilities include a barbecue, a bench, and deck chairs.
Additional shared amenities include a pizza oven and a wooden seesaw for children, according to Time & Leisure.
The shower facilities, located approximately 400 meters from the glamping tents, feature under-floor heating and are positioned at the entrance to the farm.
An honesty shop near the showers offers farm-produced goods including salt marsh lamb, as well as local beer and wine. Visitors can also borrow a gas cooker by covering the cost of gas, with payment settled at the end of the stay via a simple form.
“We were very comfortable in the tent,” said a guest, describing their experience during a stay with mild weather conditions of about 20°C, wind, and light rain. “The bed linen is first-class, top hotel quality.”
Lunsford Farm has previously appeared on the television program Celebs on the Farm, hosting participants such as Lorraine Chase, Paul Merson, and Louie Spence.
While the glamping field is carefully maintained, visitors are advised to use caution if driving vehicles with low undercarriages due to the uneven access track.
The surrounding region offers visitors access to various local attractions. The historic towns of Rye and Hastings are within five miles, while nearby outdoor destinations include Camber Sands beach and Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, which is known for its birdwatching opportunities.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality industry, Lunsford Farm offers an example of diversification by integrating short-term accommodations into a working agricultural operation.
The site balances rustic aesthetics with functional comfort and shows how heritage properties can broaden their offerings without compromising core agricultural production.
Glamping providers may take note of the farm’s strategic use of distance between amenities to manage infrastructure needs, as well as the potential for leveraging local products and media exposure to enhance guest appeal.
Featured image by Featherdown via featherdown.co.uk