We visited in the winter (-2°C), so we needed to start a fire immediately (make sure you follow the instructions in your field guide). We struggled at first to start the fire, but when you do and the cabin starts to warm up, there is an immense amount of pleasure from such a simple task. You also need to plan your meals for the few days that you are away, which is a big positive as it just takes away the stress of thinking about what you’re going to eat (if you’re with a partner, don’t tell them the menu; it’s a thoughtful surprise and it will make the weekend). Also don’t forget to pack a bottle of something nice (top tip: champagne 🥂).
We were in the South Downs National Park (there are plenty of other cabin locations across the UK and even in Australia), so what better way to spend your time than to go for a nice long hike. We took the longest hike mentioned in the field guide, which was just over 8 miles and took us under 4 hours. I know this sounds like a lot, but with the promise of a packed lunch I made in the morning (forgot to pack the Mini Babybel though…) and a tinny halfway through, it was a rewarding experience that gave you time to reflect.
Once we came back just before dark, we lit up the pizza oven, got creative with our toppings, played Monopoly, and popped open the champagne! I mean, it doesn’t get much better than this, and yet this was something so simple. And best of all, no buzzing of the phone.
We allowed ourselves time to sit and think. I read my book for more than 30 minutes. I laid on the bed and tried to find the constellations. I chatted with my partner openly and honestly. Not only did I connect with him more, but I connected with myself a lot more than I thought I would have. I found inner peace in this beautiful cabin and I just wish it was for a few more days.
Alas, it was back to the city, but the feeling of being calm and content did linger and I did revisit some old habits of disconnecting that I’d forgotten about. If only there were more places to go that have no phone signal. Guess the London Underground will have to do…
unyoked.co Prices start from £154 per night