Swallowtail Hill

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Swallowtail Hill: What is it?

Swallowtail Hill offers eco-glamping in East Sussex, in what is now one of southern England’s most biodiverse landscapes thanks to conservation work that began 35 years ago.

Swallowtail Hill stands out among ever-growing ‘glamping’ experiences for its authenticity. It is created for those who genuinely value time in nature, want to unplug from technology, and experience true sustainability in a thriving, biodiverse setting. The holiday experience is designed to allow guests to slowdown and reconnect with themselves, loved ones and with nature.

The property spans 50 acres of rolling wildflower meadows and woodland, with six unique cabins and cottages-on-wheels scattered throughout. Each space is thoughtfully designed to provide total peace and quiet, offering an escape tailored for romantic retreats, family adventures, or getaways with friends.

The cabins

The Long View is nestled in a wildflower meadow, offering breathtaking south-facing views through its fully glazed end. With bifold doors that open to bring the outdoors in, a king-size bed perfectly positioned for sunrise watching, and a wood-burning stove for year-round coziness, it’s ideal for couples or small families. Step outside to your private deck, firepit, and optional wood-fired hot tub for the ultimate relaxation.

The Roundhouse is a secluded woodland haven perfect for romance. Tucked under a towering oak tree, it features a king-size bed with a stunning view, a wood-burning stove for cozy nights, and a private hot tub just steps away. It’s a hideaway designed for indulgent tranquility, complete with sustainable amenities and charming details.

For a fairy-tale escape, Woodcutter’s Cottage is a handcrafted gem in a quiet woodland dell. This cozy retreat, suitable for couples or small families, includes a wood burner, compact kitchen, and its own wash cabin with a compost loo and hot shower. Outside, enjoy a firepit and the option to book a wood-fired hot tub under the stars.

Meadow Keeper’s Cottage, the first of Swallowtail Hill’s creations, is a charming off-grid retreat between wildflower meadows. With no electricity, it invites you to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Inside, you’ll find a cozy wood-burning stove and thoughtfully designed spaces for a family or couple.

For group getaways, the Wood and Penfold Cabins are twin accommodations sharing a tranquil paddock. Perfect for friends or families, each cabin sleeps four, with shared outdoor facilities, firepits, and a communal dining area. These off-grid cabins encourage connection, relaxation, and quality time in nature.

The Swallowtail Hill experience

Every stay includes sustainable essentials, luxurious Egyptian cotton linens, and thoughtful touches to ensure your getaway is as comfortable as it is kind to the planet.

Swallowtail Hill also works closely with the local community and encourages their guests to explore the rich history and heritage of 1066 Country, from sandy beaches to cobbled streets. The team hosts ad-hoc woodland craft sessions for visiting children with a focus on conservation, as well as walks and talks for local groups to showcase their vital ecological work.

To find out what type of glamper you are, they offer an online quiz to help you pick out the perfect accommodation for you.

Whether you’re seeking to unplug, recharge, or immerse yourself in a biodiverse landscape, Swallowtail Hill offers a uniquely sustainable glamping experience in the heart of East Sussex.

Brand Name best-sellers:

The Roundhouse

from ÂŁ470

The Longview

from ÂŁ470

Woodcutter’s Cottage

from ÂŁ400

Swallowtail Hill: How Sustainable is it?

In a hospitality industry where most businesses are still tinkering around the edges of sustainability, Swallowtail Hill stands out with robust policies and sincere ethos. Their conservation work began 35 years ago, transforming their land into one of southern England’s most biodiverse landscapes. Today, guests are surrounded by wildflower meadows, woodland, hedgerows, and abundant wildlife.  

Founder Sarah Broadbent says: “The majority of guests leave having asked a lot of questions about landscape, conservation, and biodiversity so at a very grassroots level we feel we make a difference.”

Swallowtail Hill’s operations reflect a commitment to reinvest: all income from their accommodations goes directly back into their conservation efforts. They regularly audit suppliers, ensuring standards are met across cleaning, maintenance, and even marketing practices.

Unlike some glamping businesses that make bold ‘green’ claims without evidence or offer token offsetting, Swallowtail Hill takes a critical, informed approach. Their site is nature and climate positive, a standard they uphold with rigorous metrics and ongoing reviews.

Beyond hosting guests, Swallowtail Hill actively contributes to the community. Sarah, trained in Forest School education, leads a Green Guardian scheme, where children earn rewards by learning how to care for the environment. The team also welcomes charities and support groups for respite visits to the countryside.

Swallowtail Hill supports conservation organizations such as the Sussex Wildlife Trust, Plantlife International, and the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. Through Sarah’s work with the Rye Chamber of Commerce, she encourages local businesses and attractions to adopt sustainability practices and offers guidance on environmental audits. She’s also an advocate for skills training in hospitality, inspiring the next generation to join this industry.

Swallowtail Hill is a shining example of what’s possible when sustainability isn’t an afterthought but the foundation of everything you do.

Swallowtail Hill: where can I buy it?

Book online at: swallowtailhill.com

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