Gypsy caravan holidays
Considering a romantic break in the great outdoors? Looking for somewhere that is well-equipped, ready and waiting for you when you arrive on site and also very unusual? It may be time to book a holiday in a traditional-style wooden gypsy caravan. They are weather-proof and water-tight to protect you from the unpredictable British climate, and often decorated to a very high standard with lots of luxurious touches – and what’s more, their compact and cosy interiors are just the right size for two.
See five of Pitchup’s handpicked gypsy caravan holiday options
What is a gypsy caravan?
The gypsy caravans – sometimes also known as wagons or roulottes – are updated and contemporary versions of the horse-drawn “vardos”, compact and beautifully painted homes on wheels historically used by British Romanys. Many of the modern versions, fast becoming popular for glamping holidays, follow the original design of the “vardos” with a curved, bow-shaped roof and outward-slanted sides. Many are painted in traditional burgundies or greens, with patterning in contrasting colours, and have vibrant fabrics and décor inside.
Who are gypsy caravan holidays suitable for?
Traditional gypsy caravans provide cosy accommodation inside a very compact space. By definition, this means they will not generally be suitable for large groups or families, although it is sometimes possible to find a unit that sleeps four.
Due to their size, gypsy caravans can be tucked away on peaceful corners of glampsites by riverbanks, in woodland glades or with far-reaching views over fields, making them unusual bases for romantic couples’ breaks – and giving guests the opportunity to spend time out of doors in nature.
Many are off-grid completely or powered by solar panels, and some outdoor private space is normally available too, so you can rustle up a barbecue feast and stay cosy around the firepit on cooler days.
However, there are a few access issues to consider when thinking about gypsy caravan holidays:
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Generally, gypsy caravans are not suitable for anyone with mobility issues. Their traditional designs require wooden steps leading up to the door of the unit and once inside there is limited space to move around.
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Most gypsy caravan holidays are not dog friendly for the following reasons:
They are often decorated to a very high standard and dogs may damage the interiors;
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As the caravans are compact inside, there may simply not be enough room for a dog and all its paraphernalia;
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Dogs may struggle with getting in and out of a gypsy caravan.
There is one canine-friendly gypsy caravan sitein our list of recommendations below, but if that's not the one for you then Pitchup does have plenty of dog-friendly glamping alternatives, including spacious yurts and bell tents.
What’s provided in a gypsy caravan holiday?
As with all glamping pods, gypsy caravans differ in style and budget – some are exquisitely decorated and come with lots of luxuries (quality bedding, camping kitchens, private toilets) while others may be a simple bare shell and you will be expected to take all your camping equipment with you. To check what’s available with each gypsy caravan when researching on Pitchup, just click on the pitch type for a full list of what’s included in the accommodation, what is available on site (sometimes for an extra charge), and what you need to bring with you.
Are gypsy caravans eco-friendly?
It’s a resounding yes. Most gypsy caravans are carefully hand-crafted from sustainable and renewable wood and hand-decorated in traditional style. Their carbon footprint can be kept to a minimum by harnessing solar power or making them completely off-grid.
How can I book a gypsy caravan holiday?
As they are fast becoming one of the most popular forms of glamping, sites offering gypsy caravan holidays are increasing around the UK. To book your gypsy caravan glamping break, go to the glamping page on Pitchup and tick the ‘gypsy caravan’ option under ‘Camping’ for choices across the country.
Five of Pitchup’s best gypsy caravan holidays
Here is Pitchup’s personal pick of the five best UK glampsites offering gypsy caravan holidays. All have enthusiastic and glowing reviews from our loyal repeat customers.
Central England
Cotswolds Camping
Holycombe, Whichford
Shipston On Stour
Warwickshire CV36 5PH
Why here: Positioned in a secluded corner of the quiet camping field, the pretty, red-patterned gypsy caravan is ideal for couples or single guests (no-one under 12 please), with a pull-out bed. There is a woodburner, a kettle and cold-water tap for morning brews and a lamp inside the unit. All bedding is provided.
A handy camping kitchen sits outside the caravan for your sole use, and is kitted out with a gas stove, cutlery and basic utensils. You can snuggle up around the firepit (firewood is sold on site) and enjoy a barbecue feast or take the chance to appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
Key facilities: Showers, washing-up area, ice-pack freezing, takeaway café, wildlife haven
One other thing: Sharing the site with you is Holycombe Holistic Retreat Centre and its treatments for body and soul range from acupuncture and reiki to massage and hypnotherapy, all bookable on arrival.
East Anglia 
Gayton Farm
Clayhithe Road, Horningsea,
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB25 9JE
Why here: A romantic bolthole for couples, the bow-topped gypsy caravan was handcrafted locally and is heated by a woodburning stove. Inside is lots of clever storage, shelving and hanging space. It stands apart from other glamping units on the site and has a private outdoor seating area with rural views and a firepit, plus cast-iron pans and all the utensils you need for a campfire feast.
Bed linen is provided and there are basic cooking utensils in the camping kitchen – all you need to bring is your own towels. Guests also have access to modern shared washrooms and toilets a short walk away.
Key facilities: Showers, ice-pack freezing, charging facilities, livestock on site, wildlife haven
One other thing: The caravan is on a working farm, with ponies and herds of Lincoln Red cows grazing in surrounding fields. Go quietly about your day and you may see deer too.
South West
Hideaway Camping 
Higher Melbury, Northlew, Okehampton
Devon EX20 3PG
Why here: Cosy and stylish accommodation for two is in a traditional, bow-top gypsy caravan, painted bright red and cheerily adorned with patterns. Inside the unit is decked out with brightly coloured canalware, cheery bed linen on the double bed and homely touches like cushions and festive candles. All you need to do is bring your own towels.
There’s a small private seating area outside, with a firepit for barbecues, and a neighbouring wooden shack with a gas-powered and simply equipped kitchen/living space plus a sofa for guests’ exclusive use – its roof is supported by the branches of a tree.
Key facilities: Private camping kitchen, showers, washing-up area, communal kitchen and cabin, wildlife haven
One other thing: Peaceful views are the backdrop of strolls around this Devon hideaway, but if you need more persuasion to help you relax, sign up to reflexology, reiki or shamanic healing sessions.
Somerset Reindeer Ranch 
Orchid Stud, Ilchester Road, Chilthorne Domer
Somerset BA22 8RF
Why here: This cosy wooden caravan has a grass-covered roof and a flower-filled wooden deck as well as a magical theme to enchant the kids – it looks gorgeous at night when illuminated by fairy lights. Sleeping up to four, the interior of the simple unit is basically an empty shell, so you’ll need to bring all your camping gear with you, from beds and pillows to cooking equipment.
Showers and toilets are a short walk away, and there’s a covered barbecue hut to cook in if the weather turns against you.
Have a wander around the farm and you’ll come across reindeer and white ponies.
Key facilities: Showers, barbecue hut, weekend tiki bar, bath available, livestock on site, wildlife haven
One other thing: Kid-friendly activities here include meeting a ‘unicorn’, My Little Pony, Peppa Pig and mermaid experiences. Adults may prefer the roll-top bath experience with rose petals and a glass of prosecco.
Travellers Rest 
Gulliford Farm, Port Road
Dawlish, Devon EX6 8HH
Why here: The brightly painted, bespoke gypsy caravans each have their own private woodland glade with a firepit and simple log seating as well as peaceful views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Each van at this adults-only site is fully kitted out with memory-foam beds for a sound night’s sleep, towels and bed linen. Toilets and hot showers are in wooden huts nearby.
Each caravan is stocked with tea, coffee and fresh milk for your arrival and the first morning, and you can buy breakfast, picnic and barbecue packs (vegetarian too) from the owners as well.
Key facilities: Showers, local produce sold on site, wildlife haven, adults only, dogs welcome
One other thing: The site is on a farm with sheep (lambs in spring), litters of micro pigs and an array of free-range chickens who produce different-coloured eggs for your breakfast fry up.
Gypsy caravan holidays in the UK
Looking for extra inspiration before booking a holiday in a gypsy caravan? Have a look at more glampsites offering breaks in gypsy caravans on Pitchup by simply clicking on the links below. We have scores of UK sites offering gypsy caravan holidays.
Book gypsy caravan holidays in England
Book gypsy caravan holidays in Wales
Book gypsy caravan holidays in Scotland
Book gypsy caravan holidays in Northern Ireland