Overview

Johnny Vegas brings his Field of Dreams vintage vehicle glamping to Melbourne Hall for 2024. There really is no other glamping experience like this available in the UK!

Activities

Melbourne Hall stands in an idyllic setting at the east end of the village overlooking the 20 acre mill pool. Passers-by get little more that a fleeting glimpse, because its principal aspects are south and east towards the parkland and gardens, while the courtyards and outbuildings separate it from the village to the north and west.

The site is split into two camps: a quiet couples area and a larger family and friends area. A huge amount of thought has gone into the set up and it’s paid off. It’s a gorgeous setting tucked away down a private drive to ensure additional peace and quiet. Evenings can be spent ambling to the local brewery via the lakeside footpath before watching the sun set over the corn fields. It’s idyllic. It really is.

While visiting, you can buy tickets to Melbourne House and Gardens. A family ticket costs around £38 to tour the house and the gardens.

During your stay, you have various dining options within Melbourne Hall Courtyard and the surrounding Melbourne Village. Inside the Courtyard, The Sitooterie offers hot and cold drinks, cakes, and ice cream daily from 9 am to 5 pm. The Brewhouse, open Tuesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm, serves craft ales, wines, and Italian Pinsa pizzas until 8 pm. For traditional afternoon teas and homemade dishes, visit the Melbourne Hall Tea Rooms, open Wednesday to Sunday, 9 am to 3 pm.

For those looking to stock up on food and drinks, the Courtyard houses Stable Ales for craft beer and cider, Pierre Hourlier Wines for French wines, and V Bottirie for Italian delicacies. In Melbourne Village, explore further dining and shopping options like Forteys, Melbourne Deli & Kitchen, and more. Essentials can be found at Sainsbury’s and Heaths Farm Shop on the village outskirts.

Accommodation

Johnny’s Vintage Glamping Site, featured on Channel 4’s Johnny Vegas: Carry on Glamping, offers a unique experience at their new Melbourne Hall location. They’ve restored vintage vehicles for guests since 2021, providing a blend of comfort and nostalgia.

Each vehicle boasts mains electricity, fresh drinking water, and a welcome tray filled with beverages and local treats. Amenities include bedding, towels, a small stock of logs for the first night (with additional logs available for purchase), and access to communal areas with games and a fire pit.

“Oscar The Puma,” which served from 1970 to 2005, sleeps up to six with a variety of beds, cooking facilities, decks, and a private converted bathroom. The 1970s American School Bus, previously transporting Minnesota school children, now accommodates five with unique sleeping arrangements, a kitchenette, and a stylish shower. Guests can enjoy outdoor seating and an exclusive horse trailer bathroom; one dog is allowed without extra charge.

The rare 1960s French Citroen van, one of thirteen, offers space for four with an external ‘glawning’ tent, fire pit, and private bathroom. “Patricia,” a Maltese bus in service until 2011, now welcomes four guests with comfortable sleeping options, a kitchen, and a custom-tiled shower, alongside Lol’s Bar and a personal fire pit.

Each vehicle presents a distinct glamping experience, complete with the necessary amenities for a memorable stay.

Nearby

Melbourne is a beautiful Georgian market town bordering the National Forest.

Melbourne is a haven of superb restaurants, pubs and cafes, together with a wealth of shopping opportunities, including galleries, antique shops, specialist clothes stores, gift shops and local produce. The town has more than fifty restaurants and shops split between the town centre and the Courtyard at Melbourne Hall, just a couple of minutes walk away. On a Thursday, there is a market outside Melbourne Assembly Rooms, known for its food and drink stalls.

Summary

This is a once in a lifetime glamping experience and the family will love.