Elmley National Nature Reserve

Elmley Nature Reserve, Isle of Sheppey, Kent - Explore & Book

"Magical Elmley Nature Reserve forms a large portion of the low-lying Isle of Sheppey, which lies off Kent's north coast. These wild 3,300 acres are home to one of the largest bird reserves in England – including lapwings, marsh harriers, and plentiful waterfowl in the reed beds – as well as being a working farm where cattle and sheep graze the salt-marsh. And uniquely, it's the only National Nature Reserve in England you can overnight in. This spectacular land is family-owned, and Georgina and Gareth skilfully combine the farm, nature and visitors to harmonious effect. You've a wonderful choice of places to stay. Larger family parties or groups of friends can book the peaceful and stunningly renovated 18th-century Kingshill Farmhouse comes with sumptuous bedrooms and a large garden. Or Elmley Cottage, which has 5 bedrooms, a sociable open-plan ground floor and picture windows overlooking the reserve. Couples may prefer to stay in a very special and cosy shepherds hut. These are spaced along a ridge to maximise the vast skyscape, and come with private outdoor seating, a firepit and shower bathrooms; some sleep a family of 4. In summer, you can get even closer to nature in a traditional bell tent: set in meadows and woodland, they sleep up to 4. Communal space is found in the barn, a lovely rustic space with comfy seating, games, books and a woodburner for guests to enjoy. There's even a dedicated wellness space for massages and facials. We woke to phenomenal sunrises, ordered picnic baskets, walked the breadth of the reserve, saw hares boxing and owls hunting at dusk, toasted marshmallows round the firepit, and absolutely loved it. Highs Those vast skies, the quality of light, that sense of space, so much wildlife! And you're just 1hr15mins from London St Pancras A wide range of accommodation options, ranging from tents to super-stylish houses, and sleeping from 2 to 14 Be catered for or self-cater: hampers and picnic baskets can be delivered to your door; the huts have kitchenettes or a camp kitchen, while the houses have well-equipped kitchens Heavenly for photographers and Instagrammers, couples seeking to recharge and relax, families looking to re-wild We loved the thoughtful details: Romney Marsh woollen blankets, an excellent in-hut guide, top quality linens, high end kitchens in the houses, games in the barn Lows Book ahead for summer stays In inclement weather the shepherds huts could feel small; you can retreat to the cavernous central barn in summer Extras (like meals, firewood, barbecue hire, binoculars etc) can be dear and soon add up Bell tents have shared showers, loos, and kitchen which can get busy. Woodland bell tents have sockets for lights and phone charging while the others are power free Samphire and Little Owl don't have sockets (lights are powered by solar panels). Charge up devices in the barn. Martha's Hut and The Roost don't have kitchenettes" - Nadine Mellor