The Blurb
Tucked away in the heart of Sussex, The Enchanted Glade is more than just a getaway; it’s a whisper from nature herself, beckoning you to step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the embrace of the wild. What makes this beautiful glamping retreat particularly special is how effortlessly it blends the sense of seclusion with the convenience of accessibility. Just a brief train ride (20 minutes from Gatwick) or a scenic drive from the restless pulse of London, you’ll find yourself in a world that feels like it exists in another time, another realm.
Boasting 9 unique glamping options, cooking facilities, and the jewel in the crown: a luxurious woodland spa, the entire site and everything on it has been built from scratch by husband-and-wife team Lillo and Maria, using up-cycled and recycled materials (and a huge dose of love and dedication). Moreover, The Enchanted Glade is available for private hire, you can hire the whole site and create a truly bespoke stay for you and your people.
The Experience
As you approach The Enchanted Glade, the air thickens with the scent of greenery and earth, a prelude to the experience that awaits. The journey here feels like a gentle shedding of city life, each mile drawing us deeper into tranquillity. Upon arrival, we’re greeted not by the clamour of a bustling reception but by the murmur of leaves and the soft chorus of woodland creatures.
Maria and Lillo, custodians of the land here at The Enchanted Glade, meet us at our car. The pair are authentically warm and welcoming, making us feel instantly at home and enabling another layer of stress to melt away. It’s clear we’re in good hands
We’re shown to The Gypsy Wagon, our accommodation for the night. Tucked away in a leafy corner of the glade, the Gypsy Wagon offers a whimsical sleeping place that feels like stepping into a storybook. The intricate woodwork, hand-carved with care, tells tales of old-world craftsmanship, while the comfy double bed promises a peaceful night. (There are also two additional cosy bunk bed style beds which would be perfect for extra friends or children). At the same time as feeling like it’s straight out of Little House on the Prairie, The Gypsy Wagon is also equipped with unobtrusive modern comforts—an oven and stovetop for brewing your morning coffee, running water for ease and power outlets to keep you connected to the outside world, should you choose. There is also a selection of books, games and a log burner (which we definitely don’t need on one of the hottest days of the year, but would be cosy and romantic on a colder evening).
Spa
One of the standout features of this truly special spot is the woodland wood-fired spa, a true haven of relaxation nestled amidst the trees. The hot tub, sauna, and cold plunge pool offer a deeply rejuvenating experience that’s as close to nature as it gets.
Sinking into the warm, petal-strewn water of the wood-fired hot tub I delight as the cool evening air brushes my skin. I can literally feel the stress melting away as I tilt my head back to gaze at the myriad of green that makes up the forest canopy above me. My husband and I drift between the hot tub and the quirky wagon sauna (also wood-fired) braving the invigorating plunge into the cold barrel in between and feeling more alive, in tune and rejuvenated with each passing moment. We are completely surrounded by nature in all her glory. A far cry from the sometimes-clinical feeling of classic spas – this is a true rewilding of the body, mind and soul. Over 2 hours we sink deeper and deeper into relaxation and bliss. I end our spa session in the hammock strung up between two mighty oak trees, and realise that it’s been a long time since I’ve felt this good.
It’s worth noting here that optional massages can also be arranged, blending the serenity of the forest with the skilled touch of a professional therapist. It’s an indulgence that leaves you feeling refreshed, rebalanced, and deeply connected to the natural world around you.
Dining
There’s no restaurant at The Enchanted Glade, but there are cooking facilities or the village of Lindfield is a mere 5-minute drive away with plenty of dining options.
In Conclusion
Every moment at The Enchanted Glade is an invitation to reconnect—with yourself, with your companions, and with the natural world.Even a short stay feels like an adventure, each corner of the glade revealing something new—an unexpected patch of wildflowers, the flash of a deer between the trees, or the distant call of an owl as night falls. There’s a magic to this place that’s hard to put into words, a feeling that you’ve stepped into a fairytale, where the ordinary rules of life are gently suspended.
And yet, despite this otherworldly atmosphere, The Enchanted Glade remains wonderfully accessible. It’s a sanctuary that’s far enough from London to feel like a true escape, yet close enough that you can slip away for a weekend and return feeling as though you’ve been away for a month. It’s a rare gift to find such a place—where the modern world feels distant, but not too far away, where you can lose yourself in the quiet beauty of nature without being too far from home.
For those in search of a glamping retreat that’s both unique and rejuvenating, The Enchanted Glade in Sussex is an unparalleled destination. It’s a place where time slows down, where nature takes centre stage, and where the soul can breathe deeply. Highly recommended for anyone yearning for a true escape, just a stone’s throw from London.
The Details
Accommodation for two nights in The Gyspy Wagon + spa access for 2 people begins at £350.
For those planning a special occasion or simply seeking an exclusive experience, The Enchanted Glade specialises in private group hire. Whether it’s a milestone celebration, a group retreat, or an intimate gathering with friends, the entire Glade can be yours to enjoy. With its enchanting ambience and secluded setting, it provides a perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories, all within easy reach of London. Maria is also a trained eco therapist and experienced facilitator who is happy to help you create a bespoke celebration or ceremony for your wedding, bridal blessing, birthday, or other special event.
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