The Gate Hangs High

Set your tent up in the grounds of a cracker of a Cotswolds inn with an intriguing name – The Gate Hangs High – for a hol exploring the gorgeous green hills and honey-coloured villages of an especially famed part of Oxfordshire.

This spot’s top for fans of both tradition and beer: every Friday (depending on the weather), the pub’s casks are delivered the old-school way by horse-drawn dray. And for more alcohol-related attractions, the well-known Hook Norton Brewery is a pleasant half-hour walk away; the space hosts tours and visitors can craft their own beer for special occasions (ask at The Gate about pre-booking your slot).

Drinks are, of course, also sorted back at the pub (open from 10am to 10pm seven days a week). Cosy up next to the inglenook fireplace with a glass of something chilled, or book a table in the restaurant section for a locally-sourced meal. The chef’s pies are said to be popular with the area’s residents and the inn welcomes dogs too – it keeps canines satisfied with dog treats available at the bar. On the social side, the pub hosts live music in the garden every Saturday night from 8pm till late, and also provides entertainment (DJs, comedy nights, wine tastings and the like) on some Friday nights.

As well as stunning views of the Cotswolds' hilly landscape, this place in Hook Norton also has essentials like a chemical disposal area and recycling facilities, plus an outdoor shower, toilets and sinks. A shop’s just down the road for gathering up supplies.