Last Update June 2025
John and I try to spend as much time as we can just the two of us. It isn't easy when you have kids but I think having kids make it's more important. Spending time together helps us as a couple and it gives us time to recharge as parents. We love planning date nights together but planning a night away is perfect and we have a new passion, Glamping. Glamping has become one of the UK’s most sought-after getaway trends, and if you're active on TikTok or Instagram, you’ve probably come across The Secret Garden Glamping. Tucked away in a peaceful countryside location in Skelmersdale, this retreat offers a touch of luxury, serenity, and exclusivity - but getting a booking isn’t easy. In fact, it’s near impossible.
John and I recently celebrated our anniversary and we stayed for 1 night at The Secret Garden Glamping so I thought I'd let you all know how it went and was it worth the hype and cost. In this review, we’ll share everything about our stay at The Secret Garden Glamping, including booking tips, what to expect from The Lodge, and whether it's truly worth the long wait and high demand.
Booking The Secret Garden Glamping - A Challenge in Itself
Let’s start with the biggest obstacle - securing a booking. If you’re hoping for a spontaneous weekend escape, this place might not be for you. The Secret Garden Glamping is famous for selling out months in advance, with many dates fully booked just minutes after release.
I personally booked eight months ahead of time, aiming for our anniversary, and even then, I couldn’t get the exact date I wanted. It is that popular. We eventually settled for the night before, not quite what we planned, but we were just happy to finally experience what everyone was raving about.
Accommodation Options at The Secret Garden Glamping
There are a a wide range of accommodation options at The Secret Garden however we just settled for what we could book which was The Lodge. Each one is individually styled and offers a unique glamping experience with added luxury.
Why We Chose The Lodge At The Secret Garden Glamping
Like I said The Lodge was the only option available at the time of booking but we felt it had the perfect combination of comfort, privacy, and indulgence. It’s ideal for a one-night stay with everything you need under one roof. It came with:
A private hot tub
Outdoor sauna (seats one comfortably)
Two Smart TVs – one indoors, one outdoors
Fully equipped kitchenette
Indoor and outdoor seating areas
Complimentary cupcakes and chocolate
A welcome glass of Prosecco on arrival
Board games, robes, and fluffy towels
Everything was designed to offer the ultimate relaxing escape - and it didn’t disappoint.
Check-In Experience and Communication
What truly impressed us was the excellent communication before we even arrived. We received a full welcome guide via email, detailing everything we needed to know - from directions and parking, to how to use the hot tub and sauna. Every detail was covered.
We accessed The Secret Garden Glamping through a secured gate which we had to put in the pin code we had been given before arrival. Once the gates opened there was a member of staff waiting to show us to our designated parking bay. He then directed us to Guest Services. Check-in was smooth and the girls were lovely. We were offered a glass of Prosecco and given directions to The Lodge which was just next door. Our check-in time was from 3pm, and check-out was at 10am the next morning.
Our Lodge Stay – Every Detail Covered
Inside the Lodge
The interior of the lodge was stylish, cosy, and thoughtfully laid out. The little extras made a big difference, cupcakes, chocolates, board games, robes, and the welcome drink made us feel pampered. The smart TV inside meant we could snuggle up on the sofa and watch a movie before heading to the hot tub. The kitchen area had everything we needed, from cutlery and glasses to a kettle and fridge. There’s no shop on site, so make sure to bring all your food and drink with you.
Outdoor Living - Whatever the Weather
One of the best things about the Lodge is that everything, the hot tub, sauna, and outdoor seating is under cover, meaning rain won’t ruin your stay. We had so much rain during our visit, but it didn’t impact our experience at all.
The Hot Tub
We pre-booked for the hot tub to be preheated, which was a great idea in theory but it was too hot on arrival. Definitely lift the lid as soon as you arrive to let it cool down a little. Once it reached the right temperature, it was gorgeous. Soaking in the hot tub while watching the outdoor Smart TV with a drink in hand was a huge treat.
The Sauna
Although quite compact, the sauna was a lovely touch. It really only fits one person comfortably, but it was warm, clean, and well maintained. You won’t find this kind of feature at many UK glamping sites.
A Few Minor Downsides
While we had a wonderful stay, there were a few small issues to note -
We paid for logs and firelighters, but they weren’t in the lodge when we arrived. However, after a quick text, they were delivered within 15 minutes - great response time!
We had quite a few flies inside the lodge. It's the countryside after all, but it did get a little annoying. We recommend keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible.
Quiet time is 10:30pm-7am. I think it's a great idea so that you can relax and enjoy the nature around you however The Lodge is right by Guest Services. We could hear the staff arriving on site at 7am in the morning, talking and getting ready for their day. It seemed so loud so we ended up getting up when we were looking forward to a lie in.
Check-out time is quite early at 10am, so plan your morning accordingly to make the most of your stay.
What to Pack for Your Stay
Since there’s no on-site shop, be sure to bring everything you need with you.
Food and drinks (including milk, snacks, etc.)
Slippers or flip-flops for walking between lodge and hot tub
Toiletries - although towels and robes are provided
Phone charger and maybe a power bank if you plan to relax outside
Would We Return to The Secret Garden Glamping?
I think so. Despite the long wait and the tricky booking process, our stay at The Secret Garden Glamping was really enjoyable. It’s the perfect place to switch off, relax, and reconnect whether it’s for a special occasion like an anniversary, or just a much-needed break.
The Lodge offered everything we needed for a luxury one-night escape, a comfortable bed, hot tub, sauna, thoughtful touches, and an atmosphere that made us feel like we were in our own little bubble, (until 7am in the morning!!!)
Final Thoughts - Is The Secret Garden Glamping Worth the Hype?
I can see why it is so popular. If you're looking for a romantic UK glamping experience with luxury features, peaceful surroundings, and Instagram-worthy vibes, The Secret Garden Glamping definitely delivers.
Just be sure to book early, arrive prepared, and expect a few countryside quirks.
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Michelle
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