Luxury lodges are now at the forefront of our minds as ideal for an escape, thanks to the c-word that is Coronavirus. In fact, the demand for self-catering staycations has driven many in the hospitality industry to extend the holiday season. And Bainland Lodge Retreats is no exception. We checked in to see for ourselves why Bainland has become even more popular since the pandemic.
We’ve all been savouring life at a slower pace since the global pandemic hit, and while that’s great, getting away from your everyday surroundings will give you an extra boost. If you’re looking for a luxury, peaceful retreat, stopping at Bainland Lodge Retreats will have you kicking off your shoes and relaxing in minutes.
Set within a 45-acre eco-park in the Lincolnshire countryside, Bainland started life as a caravan park but was bought by the Craddock Family in 1999. In 2015 they decided to give it a major makeover with caravans making way for lakeside lodges, tree-house retreats, holiday villas and safari-style glamping tents designed for a multitude of guests.
Bainland has been basking in the increased demand from guests to stay throughout the year from multi-generational family gatherings, special occasions, romantic breaks, and dog-friendly escapes. There are even plans to introduce wellness and corporate retreats in the future.
Their English Country Villas and English Garden Villas sleep up to 24 guests in 12 ensuite bedrooms and feature a heated outdoor swimming pool with a retractable cover. Bainland boasts a collection ranging from cosy Shepherd’s Huts for two and safari tents for eight, plus two, four & eight bedroomed luxury lakeside lodges and a host of group-friendly and dog-friendly villas.
If you have a penchant for interior design, you’ll love the work of Bainland’s interior designer Karen Robson. Her signature colour pops and bold designs within the latest lodges offer a playful spin on quintessential English design.
The plan was for Natalie and me to stay in the Lakeside Hunting Retreat; however, upon arrival, we were told we’d be staying in the Stamford Lodge due to ongoing work close to the Hunting Retreat. The staff were incredibly apologetic and said they were “sorry for the inconvenience”.
We have no idea why the team used the word inconvenience? The Stamford Lodge has seven bedrooms, a pool table, an arcade machine and a foosball table, two outdoor hot tubs, and so much space in the open plan living area that I could literally run laps in it. It was a brilliant start to our stay, and in the blink of an eye, we were in our bikinis and in the hot tub!
The alfresco hot tubs are a real plus point and treat here, and a feature in every accommodation, and ours even came with the bonus of an outdoor firepit. It was just the ticket to continue staying warm after a dip in the hot tub so we could make the most of the outdoors after a lengthy drive couped up in the car.
The lodges are made with cedarwood, which smells wonderful and kitted out in a Scandi-style. The open-plan area is so inviting; it compelled me to do a bit of cooking. The huge screen was in clear view, not that I wanted to watch anything, but the music channels helped spur me on to rustle up a healthy dinner for myself and Natalie.
Although it’s very much ‘cook your own fayre’ here, if your culinary skills aren’t up to it, you can always head over to The Copper Goose Bar & Bistro. It’s a lovely open space with ample seating, where you can order pizza, loaded chips and burgers all washed down with an alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverage.
Alternatively, if you are struggling to peel yourself from the lodge, you can always place an order and have the food delivered directly to your door in electric carts. If you need additional supplies, then there is a farm shop with all the necessary bits and bobs you need to stay in the lodges.
In my humble opinion, when you’ve come all this way, it would be rude not to get involved in the on-site activities on offer, especially when you are able to mingle with other guests.
First up was a spot or archery, played against a team of guests. I don’t consider myself a competitive type, but I will have a pretty good go at doing my best; Natalie and I played four games against the team. I am pleased to report we won three out of four.
Other activities for guests on site include tennis, swimming, cycling and a running track. The main emphasis is on relaxing and enjoying the natural environment and even mingling with four-legged friends in the shape of rescue alpacas – named after the cast of the sitcom Friends – goats and hens!
And if you have a pet of your own, you’ll be pleased to learn that 70% of lodges at Bainland are pet friendly and includes a variety of different sized lodges ranging from 2 – 12 bedrooms. Each dog receives a doggy welcome pack, including treats and a ball. Also, each pet-friendly lodge has dog bowls within them too.
For those guests that would like to explore the local surroundings, why not head to Lincolnshire’s little-known beach at Anderby Creek, which is within striking distance and around 40 minutes drive away. But if you don’t fancy venturing too far from home, then the charming village of Woodhall Spa is worth a visit. Full of café, bars, cake-filled delis and oh-so-chic shops and a quirky cinema, it’s a great place to meander around.
Even though Bainland has already expanded and boasts a waiting list of guests wanting to book a stay, they have no intention of resting on their laurels. Next on the refurbishment are plans to redevelop the main building and reception area to house a farmer’s market, featuring local suppliers from Lincolnshire and adding an outdoor swimming pool. Bainland has a great philosophy rooted in celebrating all things local; it’s something I’ll be looking out for on all my future travel reviews.
Bainland – Where and How?
To find out more or book a stay visit www.bainland.co.uk.
Photography courtesy of Anthony Cullen
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