A shepherd’s hut for all seasons

‘The shepherd’s hut location couldn’t get any more perfect as we spent the evening watching the stars, relaxing in the hot tub and listening to the owls around us.’ -Moonbow Escapes guest

Hannah caught up with Sylvia Dart, owner of Moonbow Escapes in Devon, to find out why the wildflower meadow and beautiful woodland backdrop provide the perfect setting for guests to appreciate the changing seasons.

‘Our huts fit into every season. They are very well insulated, warm, and cosy in the winter with double glazed oak windows. They are fitted with cast iron radiators and a wood burner. The shepherd’s huts also each have sheltered area outside that can be used to sit out even if the weathers not so great.’

Moonbow Escapes Lodge shepherd’s hut
An evening spent by the fire

Creating a strong structure that is naturally climate-controlled requires forward-thinking design and use of materials. From outside to inside, we think carefully about each layer of our shepherd’s huts. Our huts are built using…

  • Corrugated iron or timber weatherboard cladding
  • Breather membrane lets the walls breathe to the outside.
  • OSB structural ply-clad frame
  • Timber frame with three-inch cavity
  • Thermafleece sheep’s wool
  • V-grooved MEDITE – a very sustainable brand, made in Ireland

This combination creates a rigid, breathable, sustainably insulated structure that keeps the entire hut naturally climate-controlled throughout the year.

Morning coffee in the king-size bed

The Lodge shepherd’s huts are finished beautifully throughout with oak flooring, windows and shutters, king-size bed, bathroom with shower, and central heating to complement the wood-burning stove. The well-equipped kitchen includes hob, full-sized fridge and microwave.

Fully fitted kitchen with hob and microwave

When Sylvia told us that ‘We have endeavoured to maintain the glamping qualities that are expected with a shepherd’s hut experience, along with the qualities and refinement of Alfresco living’, we couldn’t agree more. Working closely with our design team, Sylvia has thought of everything, she even provides wood for year-round use of the hot tub.

Spacious and comfortable

Sylvia kindly gave us some wonderful feedback to share with our team of hutmakers…

‘After viewing many shepherd’s hut makers we felt the Plankbridge quality was far superior with beautiful details and finishes’.

A carefully thought-out shepherd’s hut design and all of Sylvia’s special touches mean Moonbow Escapes now sees many returning guests. After all, it is all in the detail.

‘A true hidden gem! Just got home from a magical few nights away to celebrate our first wedding anniversary and we enjoyed every moment of our time in our shepherd’s hut. We cooked a delicious meal in the well-equipped kitchen and enjoyed it whilst sat looking out towards the mystical forest. We will be back.’ -Moonbow Escapes guest

Inspired by what you’ve seen? Drop us a line today and we can make your shepherd’s hut dream come true by winter 01300 348414 or email us at [email protected]

  • To find out more about how we insulate our shepherd’s huts read here
  • If you would like to read about what it’s like to stay in a Plankbridge hut click here
  • To get in touch to discuss your shepherd’s hut ideas contact us here
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