First-time campers? Rest of the family not completely convinced that camping in the notoriously rainy Lake District is such a great idea? Then 4 Winds Lakeland Tipis might just be the perfect pitch for your first under-canvas foray. It may not have some of the luxury extras afforded by other glamping sites – this is more back-to-nature tipi-ing – but the tipis are comfy, equipped and mean that you won’t have to struggle to put up a soggy tent in the rain. In fact, this multicoloured encampment will brighten up the dullest day.
The 12 brightly painted tipis form a colourful and eye-catching encampment in a corner of the National Trust’s lovely Low Wray campsite on the shore of Lake Windermere. They come with just about everything but the kitchen sink, including a futon and air mats, rugs, cushions, gas cooker and heater, crockery, cutlery, washing-up gear, a coolbox with a couple of freezer packs – you can bring more of your own and freeze them at the National Trust reception – and tea-light lanterns for illumination. (You may want to pack a torch and will need to bring your own bedding and towels.)
The shores of Lake Windermere are a short walk from the tipis; launch dinghies and canoes or just sit and admire the spectacular views. Depending on what time of year it is, you can enjoy walking through the woodland areas full of spring flowers, or go foraging for sloes and damsons.
Low Wray must surely be one of the most beautiful and diverse campsites in the country, with panoramic views over the surrounding fells, the lake’s shoreline to wander along and, for the kids, woods to hide in and large fields to run around. The main attraction for little ones here is bound to be the unforgettable experience of camping in a real tipi - so don’t forget to pack your cowboys-and–indians costumes!
