Enjoy the sunnier weather by booking one of the glamping tents at this lakeside site, which despite being easy to access from London and Cambridge, feels like a serene country retreat14:33, 21 May 2026Looking for somewhere to enjoy the sunnier weather that is due to hit the UK?‌Glamping is a great choice as it allows you to enjoy the great outdoors without needing to sleep on an inflatable bed or a nobbly farmer's field. And if you're looking for somewhere that's not too far off the beaten track, then this site may be one to consider.‌At the heart of Redricks Lakes is a body of serene water, perfect for kayaking or even taking a dip, surrounded by lush green woodland and green spaces. But this pretty scenery isn't in the middle of nowhere; in fact, there's a train station just five minutes away, and you can get direct trains from London or Cambridge to this campsite on the Hertfordshire-Essex border.‌Its open water swimming lake is open year-round, so you can cool off in summer, or if you're exceptionally brave, enjoy the bracing waters in winter. You can take a beginner's course if you're new to open water swimming, or join one of the Full Moon Swims and enjoy the lake at its most peaceful.From May to September, the Aqua Splash water park is open, a fun inflatable assault course that includes slides, bouncy floors, and much more. Kids and adults will love racing across the course or jumping into the lake on hot days. The lakes also have a café and soft play.‌And if you want to enjoy the tranquillity for longer, you can book a stay in one of the lake's glamping pods, a bell tent that comes complete with a proper bed, so there's no messing around with groundsheets.Glampers also get access to a shared entertainment space and a BBQ area for socialising. One reviewer said: "Perfect for a last-minute getaway. This campsite has everything you need. Toilet block, outdoor hot showers under the stars, swimming in a beautiful lake."‌Nearby, you can explore the Hertfordshire countryside, including RSPB Rye Meads. This 58-hectare site is full of wetlands abundant in wildlife, including Common Terns, Kingfishers, Water Voles, waterfowl, and more along the River Lee.River Lee Country Park runs from Essex to Hertfordshire, and has several beautiful walks to enjoy, such as walking along the canal paths. You can hire your own boat, from a small pedalo to an electric boat, or even a classic narrow boat, gliding along the tree-lined rivers of this peaceful park.READ MORE: Latest Turkey travel advice for Brits as Foreign Office issues 'take care' warningREAD MORE: Little-known seaside resort with 8-mile beach and £39 UK flightsAlso near the campsite is The Gibberd Garden, a set of manicured gardens designed by renowned architect Sir Frederick Gibberd, featuring outdoor art and acres of blooming flowers. The gardens are also host to lots of interesting events, from beer to book festivals, with the unique setting creating an unforgettable backdrop.Article continues belowHave a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com