We’ve long been champions of traditional, old-school camping; where the pitches are woven among wild grass and entertainment comes from spotting birds among the trees not playing Angry Birds on your i-phone. But nowhere harks nostalgically towards the past quite like Mad Dogs & Vintage Vans. In the heart of the Wye Valley, among spinneys of grand, mature trees and pastures overflowing with cow parsley, this eco-friendly glamping site is a masterpiece of all things retro. The newest of its four vintage vans is freshly restored from no later than the 1950s, while the oldest is a 1930s Cheltenham Gnu and one of only two in the country. Prepare for a genuinely vintage vacation like no other.
Despite the old-fashioned feel of it all – think gas lamps on the walls, original oak furnishings, wood burning stoves and classic, retro homewares – nothing is at the expense of comfort. The lack of 21st century intrusions like WiFi and gadgetry is a blessing, while the provision of almost everything you could possibly need (bedding and linen provided, just bring your own towels) makes it an easy, no-fuss break.
Each of the four vans is unique. Gertie, the 1930’s Gnu, with her outer appearance reminiscent of a first class railway carriage and interior of folky, boho style, sleeps 4. Sybil, the handmade 40s caravan, boasts a pair of double beds and a child's hammock bunk, all inside a dainty, lime green wooden shell. While Elise the 50’s van is ideal for couples, featuring a quirky lantern roof, a king-sized bed and a classic cocktail cabinet. Perhaps most unusual is the World War Two military wagon, weighing in at almost three and a half tonnes. Built to withstand a bomb-blast, this hulking box on wheels is surprisingly well shaped to work as glamping accommodation. One side has been cut out into huge swing doors, opening onto a deck and making use of the uniquely high chassis level – the perfect spot for a sundowner. The upcycled, wooden interior, meanwhile, comfortably sleeps a family of four (or five by way of a campbed on the floor) with a handy kitchenette and wood burning stove.
The rest of the campsite continues the authentic feel. Set in a small wildflower meadow in the garden of a Grade II listed rectory, there’s ample space for kids to run amok – plus the rectory’s tennis court to use. It’s a short stroll to a wooded copse where the shower shack is found. Made entirely from upcycled materials, it’s as characterful as the accommodation and just as well-equipped, with flushing and composting loos, a fantastic hot shower and a wealth of eco-friendly toiletries. The communal fire-place nearby is a natural centre-piece for the site – another place to be enchanted by camping of old, cooking over the flames with a traditional tripod and griddle – and the surrounding trees are ideal for den building and tyre swinging. By the end of your stay, you won’t want to return to the 21st century!