
by Catherine Waterfall, 26th June 2023
A former Olympic athlete is branching out into treehouse retreats at her family’s rural park on the Welsh Borders
If you enjoy quirky escapes offering peace and tranquillity, the new treehouse accommodation at Woodland Park Lodges will be perfect for a weekend away.
Set in an ancient woodland, near the pretty lakeland town of Ellesmere, here you can wake up to the sound of the dawn chorus and see an abundance of wildlife from your private timber veranda.
Park managing director Victoria Thornley (pictured below), who also happens to be a silver Olympic medallist, decided to help her family expand the business when she retired from professional rowing.
"We're fantastically fortunate to have over 50 acres of mature woodland on the park, and have built a large and loyal following for our original luxury lodges," says Victoria, who competed at the London, Rio and Tokyo Games.
"When we had the opportunity to expand, our family thought how amazing it would be if we could build similar lodges among the trees, but above the forest floor.
"It's worked superbly well, and both children and grown-ups say the experience is unforgettable - not least because of the incredible views and surrounding wildlife.
"Holidays should always be about enjoying a total escape, and this is perfect!"
Each lodge has been furnished and equipped to a five-star standard with contemporary kitchens, bathrooms and living areas with an outdoor private hot-tub, barbecue and dining table for al-fresco eating on the decking area.
A week in a treehouse in August costs approximately £2,200, while lodges are available from approximately £1,000 per week. For more information, visit www.woodlandparklodges.co.uk