At Hope Farm Retreats, our tents are water tight, of course and there is nothing better than listening to the sound of rain drops on canvas, all snuggled up. We have put large porches over the entrance to each tent to keep that area dry, so enjoy sitting under there watching the weather pass over, either with a morning cuppa or a nightcap.
However, we do know that more than one day of rain, soggy clothes, wet feet and bored kids can make for a very stressful holiday – but it doesn’t have to.
Here are our tips for making the most of your time in the wet
1) We have the fully equipped Field Kitchen and nearby Flower Barn for cooking/dining in wet weather. There is a full size ping-pong table, books, games and craft materials to keep everyone occupied. We can also put on some activities for you, such as building a water wheel.
2) Plan an afternoon at the cinema, we have two locally that are small independents and really worth a visit whatever the weather: https://cinderpal.com/cinderford/now/ or https://www.merlincinemas.co.uk/?forcechoice=true (select Studio Cinema Coleford from the drop down search)
3) Don’t forget we have a drying rack and washing machine in the shower block, so make use of those if you get really soaked. Ask if you need help too.
4) There are some great activities locally that are a bit more indoorsy – check opening times before starting out. Our faves (in no particular order) are:
https://butterflyzoo.co.uk/ There is a also a maze next door if the weather does improve.
https://www.deanheritagecentre.com/ Museum of buildings from the area, including a Victorian classroom, allotments, water wheel, Gruffalo trail, chainsaw carving, charcoal building and good cafe. Mallards Pike not far if the weather clears up too.
https://krazygolflydney.co.uk/ Not under cover, but with good tree canopy AstroTurf underfoot. Great cafe and local crafts at next door Taurus Craft Centre
https://www.perrygrove.co.uk/ Narrow gauge trains, tree houses and undercover play area. Great up to the age of around 9.
https://deanforestrailway.co.uk/ Stream trains! Stay under cover all day. Hop on and off to explore the stations or find lunch.
http://www.whirlikidz.co.uk/ Softplay centre, up to the age of about 8.
https://www.monlife.co.uk/heritage/chepstow-museum/ Excellent local museum, with kids activities and Summer workshops.
Try a cookery class! https://www.hartsbarncookeryschool.co.uk/classes/childrens-classes
Finally, Embrace it! If the weather is warm and the rain light, wear shorts, waterproof jacket and sandals instead of jeans … canoeing, wild swimming, exploring are better if you are not weighed down by clothes that are difficult to dry. In fact a bit of rain can turn into a really rememberable excursion – who hasn’t tried to catch rain drops on their tongue or laughed at getting totally soaked in a sudden downpour? Think about activities like dam building and catching fish – these are often just as much fun in the rain. Just make sure you pack a change of clothes, maybe a flask of hot chocolate and have blankets to hand – all of these are in the hamper in your tent just for this reason.
Enjoy!
Jo x