We checked the weather forecast on Friday afternoon, and it predicted sunshine, blue skies, and 23C for the weekend. We jumped for joy and our camping WhatsApp pinged, 'Guys, let's go camping this weekend!'.
We found a last-minute space at the Church Farm in Ardeley by Stevenage, about 1hour drive from North London, and set off. It was a bit pricey for a family of four (£70+ firewood), but it was well worth it. Church Farm is a not-for-profit farming, food, care, and education farm. They aim to enhance the countryside, provide people with special needs the opportunity to learn and grow, conserve wildlife, and farm ecologically.
And we were not disappointed, the fields were spacious and a lush shade of green. As usual, we picked a spot not too far from the toilet huts - compost eco-toilets where the flush is a scoop of sawdust. I know what you're thinking...but no they were very clean, didn't smell, and actually, I'm pretty sure they were brand-new judging by the light coloring of the timber.
We needn't have wood anxiety as the farm has plenty of log bags for sale, and we stocked up on a bag for our grill and to keep us warm in the evening chill. One thing to note: the camping field does not have delimited pitches and no fire pits. Not a problem for us, since we carry our own mini barbeques.
Forgot to pack groceries? No worries, there is a grocery store on-site and they sell not only gorgeous local produce but also BBQ essentials... such as MEGA marshmallows!
For yoga aficionados: there is a studio, so you can stretch your camping-induced stiff back. Feel free to stock up on your incense sticks and crystals while you're there: they have a cute little shop next to the studio.
Fancy a fresh haircut? You might be like me and look like you have just been dragged through a hedge backward when you wake up in the morning after a night in the campervan. Well, this place has its own hipster barber.
The working farm is available for visits and the kids ran off to the fairy garden and tried to cuddle the animals: the fluffiest rabbits you have ever seen and the goats looked pretty cute too.
We love to hike, and on Sunday morning, after picking up a delicious cappucino and a bacon bap from the farm cafe, we set off to follow the family trail. The 45mins walk takes you around the campsite and it showcases British countryside charm in all its glory!
Walking slowly, enjoying flowers in bloom and breathing in deeply calms the nerves and the pent up stresses from the week just dissolve with every step you take. Bliss.
On the way back to the farm's car park, we stopped for lunch at The Jolly Waggoner who served a decent Sunday lunch with a couple of cheeky pints...
All in all we had a superb 24h escape and drove back to London, singing loudly to Magic radio 80s hits, refreshed and ready to take on the week ahead.
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