GLAMOROUS GLAMPING PODS OPEN AT A KENT COUNTRY PUB

Three glamping pods have been unveiled at a Shepherd Neame pub, set in the idyllic Kent countryside.

The Woolpack at Benover in Yalding officially launched its three new luxury pods, which are set in a secluded two-acre field at the back of the pub, to guests earlier this month, 

It has taken licensee Renata Spatinova and her husband Dave Bastable around two years to see the project through to fruition, after applying for planning permission to establish them on their site.

The three pods, which are generously spaced around the site’s large grounds, can sleep two adults and two children, and all have en suite shower rooms and tea and coffee-making facilities.

There is a separate entrance into the field with hardstanding for guests’ vehicles, and the pods will be available all year round as they also have heating.

Guests also have their own firepits to enjoy secluded barbecues on summer evenings.

Dave said: “During the pandemic we were shut for nine months, and Shepherd Neame were really supportive. But the uncertainty made us want to do something to expand our offer at the pub and ensure its future success - we want to be here for a long time.”

Renata added: “It has been a long project and I have had a few sleepless nights! But we are a good team – Dave comes up with the ideas and I provide the muscle to get it done. We are very excited about this new business venture.”

Their very first guests were from outside the UK on a cycling holiday. The couple also expect the pods could make a convenient stopover for families making their way to Dover, or for people to take advantage of the many attractions in the area, ranging from the quirky local must-see spots Teapot Island in the village, and the Goat Sanctuary in Boughton Monchelsea, to the Hop Farm and Leeds Castle – both within 10 miles of the village.

The site also has permission for touring caravans, and Renata and Dave have welcomed those staying in caravans for some years.

Dave added: “I think it is going to be enjoyable welcoming so many new people to the pub - different people who have travelled from different places. It’ll be fun.”

There is an entrance from the field through to the village pub’s beautiful beer garden, which has a range of tables for guests to enjoy the rural spot during the summer months.

Inside, the beamed pub is a popular stop-off for trail walkers, serving a range of Kentish ales and lagers from Shepherd Neame, along with a delicious menu of homemade pub classics and light snacks, with locally sourced produce where possible. During the winter, it has two crackling fires to settle nearby.

You can hire one of the glamping pods for £125 per night, with a minimum stay of two nights. To find out more visit https://www.woolpackglamping.co.uk/.

To find out more about The Woolpack Inn at Benover, Yalding, Maidstone, ME18 6AS, call 01892 730356 or visit https://www.woolpackyalding.co.uk/.