Travel plans cancelled due to COVID-19?
You’re not the only one. Yes, the UK government may have announced air bridges – or ‘travel corridors’ – to 59 countries worldwide, therefore removing the need for self-isolation on your return. But many people are still concerned about the virus and the safety of flying abroad.
As a result, UK staycations are set to become more popular than ever before, and shipping container holiday homes have seen a huge surge in bookings. These can now be found up and down the country, in all of the main tourist hotspots, and are a fun alternative to traditional hotels and B&Bs. Here we take a look at some of our absolute favourites.
1. Shakas House, St Ives
As people swap tropical holidays for a break closer to home, Cornwall is predicted to be one of the most popular destinations. Let’s face it, it’s the closest you’ll get to sandy white beaches and blue sea – without having to jump on a plane – and this container holiday home in St Ives is a hidden gem.
Converted from an old shipping container, it sleeps four people, features all the mod cons and is a truly unique place to stay. The container itself is located in a pretty rural setting. Yet, the bustling centre is just a short drive away – which means, holiday-makers get to enjoy a peaceful container glamping experience, whilst still being close to the buzz of the town. Sounds perfect to us!
2. Ty Cwch, Cwmtydu
This impressive container holiday home can be found in Cwmtydu – a secluded cove overlooking Cardigan Bay in Wales – and is the perfect getaway for both relaxation lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Ty Cwch (welsh for ‘boathouse’) is a spacious two-storey structure, made from larch clad shipping containers. In 2019, it won a ‘Tourism Innovation Award’ for its original and eco-friendly design – and it’s easy to see why. This quirky holiday home boasts three sleeping pods, with enough space for 12 guests, and is the perfect option for families who wish to catch up and spend quality time together.
3. The Chillout Container, Dolphinton
Often referred to as the ‘wee sanctuary’, this romantic container holiday home is set in a nature reserve on the Scottish borders – with spectacular views of the rolling hills and Edinburgh close by.
It has a very small and simple design. But that’s part of the appeal. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the structure with natural light and inside you’ll find a double bed, a well-equipped kitchen and an en-suite shower room. That’s it. There’s no TV or Wi-Fi. This converted container is designed to be a peaceful retreat for you and a partner and allows you to escape the stresses of everyday life. Bliss.
4. Barefoot Rusty, Mullion
A fine example of the incredible things people can do with a metal box. Dubbed the ‘tin tent’, this high-spec container holiday home has featured on the Channel 4 TV series ‘George Clark’s Amazing Spaces’ and is one of the coolest container glamping experiences currently available in the UK.
It’s been lovingly converted to sleep four people, with a double platform bed and two singles, a living space (with a wood-fired range!), a kitchen area and fully-functioning bathroom. Inside is finished with lots of textured fabrics and vintage fittings and it boasts fabulous views of the countryside. The ideal destination for anyone who fancies a little luxury underneath the stars.
5. GlamNess Luxury Containers, Inverness
This is a container glamping site designed for adults only. Set within five acres of beautiful trees and gardens, it has a very relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. However, it’s just a five-minute drive away from the city centre of Inverness and a ten-minute drive away from the shores of Loch Ness.
The site itself is reminiscent of a caravan park, with several recycled and converted shipping containers lined up in a row. But whichever one you choose; you’re bound to be impressed. They all come fitted with a bedroom, kitchenette, private bathroom and shower and are finished to an exceptionally high ‘hotel’ standard. This is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a glass of wine.
Create your own shipping container holiday home
Feeling inspired by these impressive container holiday homes?
Here at Gap Containers, we don’t claim to be as clever or creative as the architects who made these structures. But we do supply new and used shipping containers and, as a leading specialist in shipping container conversions, we’re always excited by the prospect of a new challenge.
Perhaps you plan to stay in the UK more often and would like your own holiday home? Or maybe you wish to start a new container glamping site? Either way, we can help. Simply get in touch to discuss your ideas with a member of the team and take the first step. You’re welcome to call us on 0870 240 9405 at any time or send an email to sales@gapcontainers.co.uk and we’ll get back to you.