We enjoyed a trip to Cairn Meadow Pods not too long ago. They’re about a 20 minute drive from Carlisle and not far from Brampton where you can expect to see a small range of shops, tea shops and a couple of takeaways. Although relatively close, the location of the site feels very rural and peaceful.
There are 4 pods in total, two of which are pet friendly (Moorhen and Oyster Catcher). We stayed in the Heron pod which in my opinion, boasts the best location. It stands alone, in front of the 3 pods and has more privacy.
Outside each pod there is a parking space, raised decking area, table and chairs and then on the grassed area each pod has it’s own a fire pit and a full sized picnic table.
The area around the pods is grassed with lots of space for children to play. The only cars near the pods will be those pulling up or leaving their own pods. All other vehicles are on the other side of the site so it’s quite a safe place for children to run around but worth baring in mind that there’s a natural lake behind a fence in front of the pods so younger children will still need to be supervised.
The pods all look quite new and were much more impressive that I expected. The ‘Heron’ pod was a good sized inside with a double bed, sofa/sofa bed and a table with 4 chairs.
There was plenty of floor space and although there was quite a lot of equipment inside the pod, it didn’t feel cluttered of claustrophobic and was immaculately clean.
I slept in the double bed with our youngest and I couldn’t fault it, the mattress was nice and comfortable, the duvet was cosy and warm with extra blankets provided for colder weather
My husband and eldest shared the fold out sofa bed and didn’t find it quite so comfortable. They struggled with the metal support beam that ran through it. If we stay again, we would likely take an air mattress to use on top of the sofa bed. I think the sofa bed would be more suitable to one, small child.
There’s also a table with four chairs in the corner of the pod and a TV mounted on the wall. The table could be pulled out into the centre of the room and used for eating, although during our visit we used the outdoor seating area for our meals.
We were kindly left some treats for our stay – a bottle of beer, a small bottle of wine and some jelly sweets for the kids, as well as a small bottle of milk in the fridge which we thought it was a lovely touch.
The kitchen area in the pod was a great addition and although there is no oven or hob, there is a full sized microwave, small fridge, kettle and toaster and a full sized sink area.
The sink area had a tea towel and washing up equipment which is really handy. We’d taken our own on this occasion but so many times we’ve visited places expecting it to be provided, and then had to wash the dishes on the first night with shampoo!
Condiments like salt and pepper and sachets of sugar, coffee and tea bags were also provided in little glass jars.
The bathroom was a comfortable size with a shower, toilet and small sink. Some glamping places we’ve stayed previous have been a nightmare for showering with low water pressure and intermittent cold water but we were really impressed with at Cairn Meadows. We were able to each shower daily with good water pressure and plenty of hot water.
The pods are set within a peaceful static caravan site but well away from the caravans, we also noticed a small camping/touring area with some toilet and shower facilities near the entrance to the site.
The kids loved building a fire in the fire pit and toasting marshmallows.
Although all four pods were filled during our visit, it felt very peaceful and relaxing. Everyone seemed happy to chill and enjoy the sunshine.
The area around the site is fairly rural with country lanes running in both directions. We were able to explore the area nearby, spotting wildlife and taking in the scenery.
We found a shallow stream a short walk from the site and the kids enjoyed paddling in and watching the little fish.
We really enjoyed our stay at Cairn Meadows. It was a beautiful pod, set in a peaceful spot. We wouldn’t hesitate to return.
