5 quirky places to stay in south-west England
From a Victorian gypsy caravan to a tin tabernacle, where will you stay when you chase the sun in England’s south-west?
1. Tin Tabernacle, Compton, Devon
Prefab ‘tin tabernacles’ were once used by Methodist preachers throughout the South West and this one is hand-crafted, from the stained glass window to the bell tower.
It makes an unusual and romantic retreat and has a hot shower, flushing loo, electricity, a fully-fitted kitchen, a log-fired stove, a wood-fired hot tub and lovely views. It’s situated in the beautiful village of Compton, near Paignton. More information
2. The Geo, Ekopod, Launceston, Cornwall
Created as the perfect rural antidote to hectic city life, this smooth white bubble on the edge of Bodmin moor is chic, cool and contemporary, ahead of its time with its modernist style. With its private kitchen and bathroom, it sits above the vicarage and looks out over the hills.
There’s plenty to keep outdoorsy types entertained too, with great walking on the moors, Cornwall’s two highest peaks to climb, and even surfing at Widemouth Bay. Whatever you do at Ekopod, you’ll be doing it in sumptuous but sustainable style. More information
3. Romany Wagon, Looe, Cornwall
Fancy gypsy wagon glamping in Cornwall? Jinka’s Wagon, once the horse-drawn home of a travelling family, is a Victorian caravan, beautifully restored and sitting in a meadow near Looe in South Cornwall. Climb the wooden steps to find vintage oil lamps, patterned crockery and a traditional stove-top kettle.
Nearby there is historic Lanreath, between the harbour town of Looe and picturesque Polperro – or walk along the South West Coast Path or explore the inland woods. There are great beaches at Talland Bay and Lansallos, too. More information
