Looking for unusual places to stay on your own, with family or a group of friends? From glorious glamping to cool cottages and dog friendly stays, these are the top five unique and unusual places to stay from Love Basingstoke.

1. The Retreat at Silchester Farm is a stunning collection of recently refurbished barn buildings. Sleeping up to 14 people, the accommodation can be booked as a complete package, making it ideal for family gatherings or a group retreat. Each room has been lovingly decorated and furnished with locally sourced – or created – furniture and furnishings. No two are the same, but they all help to tell the story of Silchester Farm and its love of local and personal. The rooms all share an open living area and kitchen space so should you want to, you can be entirely self-sufficient or for a real treat book a private dining party.

2. You will find cute little vintage styled wooden pod cabins filled with curiosity and character and two huge six-metre bell tents at Hollington Park Glamping. A family and dog friendly site set in a magical clearing of 10 acres of private ancient woodland, with many beautiful walks and trails in the area, plus a local nature reserve and board walk. Children and animal-loving adults can book a petting appointment with its resident bunny, Indian runner ducks and chickens. There is an undercover chill out and eating area and firepits, and each pod has its own decked outside eating area with sunbeds to enjoy the great British sunshine!

3. One for adults only at a unique shepherds hut, Cedar Tree offers quality accommodation for two with access to an outdoor swimming pool when heated from May to September. The hut has access to large attractive gardens and private access to a paved patio with table and chairs – perfect for al fresco dining to enjoy unspoiled country views of the North Hampshire Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The hut is located in Cole Henley, near Whitchurch, and set in the grounds of Peak House Farm, a 120-year-old farmhouse which also provides B&B accommodation.

4. Nestled amidst the peaceful surrounds of Summerdown Estate near Oakley, a cluster of cosy shepherds huts beckons couples seeking a romantic retreat. Perfect for reconnecting with nature, the accommodation caters for two guests seeking relaxation. Imagine stargazing beside a crackling fire in the evening or indulging in the soothing warmth of a wood-fired hot tub. Inside each hut, a plush double bed ensures a restful night's sleep, while a mini-kitchen allows for simple meal preparation.  While furry friends aren't permitted to protect the resident wildlife, electric vehicle charging is available for those arriving in eco-friendly style.

5. Experience a couples getaway at The Garden Cottage, in Dummer, a stylish self-contained cottage with a private garden overlooking the wonderful views of Dummer Golf Course. In spring/ summer months guests have the use of the kitchen garden with a table and chairs to enjoy the morning sun and perfect for breakfast or evening drinks. Dig out those tennis whites as, with prior arrangement, there is a hard tennis court that can be booked. The cottage is located just off a country lane with plenty of walking and cycling routes from the doorstep.

From luxury hotels to sleeping under the stars, Basingstoke and Deane offers a wide range of accommodation to choose from in the centre of Basingstoke or the surrounding towns and countryside retreats.

Get in touch with us at hello@lovebasingstoke.co.uk if we have missed your favourite place to stay or if you are a business who would like to be listed on the Love Basingstoke website.

Last updated April 2024