GLAMPING | A Romantic Winter Break at Tewkesbury Marina Shepherd’s Hut

February 14, 2025 Shell Robshaw-Bryan

Camping Features, Glamping, Homepage Feature, Stays With Style

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On a gloomy weekend in early February, we set off for Gloucestershire, heading towards Tewkesbury Marina to stay in a brand new Shepherd’s Hut overlooking the river Avon, read on for our full review.

Where did we go?

Tewkesbury Marina Shepherd’s Hut
Tewkesbury
Gloucestershire

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Our Stay

The cold and dreary months of January and February aren’t always the easiest to get through, so we always ensure we brighten our weekends with plenty of walks and a few weekends away.

Having spent the previous weekend on a city break with friends in Liverpool, it was time for some rural relaxation and grounding in glorious Gloucestershire.

Having visited Tewkesbury several times before we already knew what a lovely little historic town it is, packed full of quirky little shops, restaurants, pubs and of course, the magnificent Tewkesbury Abbey.

We love arriving somewhere for a break and then not needing to drive again, and the marina is perfectly situated, allowing Tewkesbury to be explored on foot, so once we parked up, the car didn’t need to move again until we checked out.

We spent our time in the hut vegging out, both wiped out by a pesky winter bug, we decided to use the time to read, play board games and catch up on some sleep! Luckily we found that with underfloor heating and a separate heater, it was snug and cosy as could be, the ideal place for us to chill and rest.

There’s a real sense of being connected to nature here, with trees and fields to the rear of the hut and in front, the Marina, with its beautiful double-wide houseboats moored alongside the river Avon. The bank where the hut is located is slightly elevated providing lovely river views, with an abundance of wildlife to enjoy.

Waking up to birdsong and little else, is always such a joy and I couldn’t resist taking my morning brew outside, where, wrapped in blankets, I sat on the bench and did a little grounding meditation. The simple joy of being able to see the river and watch ducks and geese toddle about was just the tonic I needed.

I’m done with the fast living I used to think I loved so much, and these days, nothing brings me more joy than sitting and doing nothing more than being present, aware and feeling connected to beautiful Mother Earth.

Drizzle threatened to overwhelm the meagre protection of my little blanket, and so returning back into the warmth of the shepherd’s hut, we made soup (there’s everything you’ll need for basic self-catering, including a kettle, toaster and microwave) and whiled away the day in relaxed, self-indulgent bliss.

The best bits

The owner is really friendly and couldn’t do enough for us, finding the marina and indeed the hut was straightforward and arrival and departure both went very smoothly.

We love the thoughtful little touches like additional blankets on the beds and chairs, the fire pit right outside and the careful landscaping which makes the hut feel private and secluded.

Tewkesbury is such a lovely town and ideal for a short break, but with attractions like the Malvern Hills not too far away, it could also make a good choice for a longer staycation.

The double bed was a great size and extremely comfortable, and you’ll find plenty of storage space under the bed, ideal for tidying away overnight bags and whatnot.

Insider tips

Once you arrive, you won’t need the car – everything in Tewkesbury can be easily reached on foot including restaurants, pubs, takeaways and shops.
There’s a stunning old pub just a couple of minutes’ walk from the Marina, and Ye Olde Black Bear isn’t just any pub, it’s the oldest pub in Gloucester.
Tewkesbury Abbey is well worth a visit. The former Benedictine monastery is a stunning example of Norman architecture and there’s also a little shop and tea room, and it can easily be reached on foot by walking through town from the Marina.
There’s plenty of walking that can be done from the Marina, a favourite leg stretch for us is to cross into the field opposite the marina and then simply follow the river. Try the Severn Ham circular walk.
Although there is an off-grid toilet hut next to the Shepherd’s Hut which is ideal for nighttime loo visits, a short walk away, you’ll find a toilet and shower block so make sure you pack your Dryrobe and flip-flops or Crocs!
The Shepherd’s Hut is doggo friendly so you can bring your lil’ buddy along too – there is lots of wildlife and often geese, swans and ducks with young, so please maintain good control at all times.
Bring extra footwear that you can slip on and off quickly (wellies, Crocs etc.) for nighttime loo visits.
Take a look at our handy guide on what to pack for glamping trips.

Final Thoughts

Everything at Tewkesbury Marina Shepherd’s Hut has been so well thought out, from the dedicated parking and decking area with a fire pit, through to the thoughtful interior design, twinkly soft fairy lights and clever use of space.

If you’re seeking a cosy, romantic getaway with a back-to-nature feel, the shepherd’s hut at Tewkesbury Marina makes the perfect choice.