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Secret Island Yurt, Beckford

Visitor Rating
Rating
Exceptional
2
1
1

Secret Island Yurt offers a romantic escape in rural Gloucestershire. This handcrafted Mongolian yurt sleeps two guests in one bedroom with one bathroom. The property sits in the Cotswolds countryside and features a private wood-fired hot tub perfect for stargazing.

The location provides peaceful surroundings with open fields and woodland walks. Guests can explore the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty from this quiet base.

The yurt contains a double bed and wood burner for heating. The bathroom includes a shower and toilet. The living space has comfortable seating and a small kitchen area. Outside you'll find the hot tub, firepit and BBQ facilities.

About Secret Island Yurt

Secret Island Yurt offers a romantic escape in rural Gloucestershire. This handcrafted Mongolian yurt sleeps two guests in one bedroom with one bathroom. The property sits in the Cotswolds countryside and features a private wood-fired hot tub perfect for stargazing.

The location provides peaceful surroundings with open fields and woodland walks. Guests can explore the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty from this quiet base.

The yurt contains a double bed and wood burner for heating. The bathroom includes a shower and toilet. The living space has comfortable seating and a small kitchen area. Outside you'll find the hot tub, firepit and BBQ facilities. The yurt measures 16 feet in diameter with traditional felt covering and wooden lattice walls.

Tewkesbury Abbey sits 4 miles away (10 minutes). Cheltenham Racecourse is 8 miles away (15 minutes). Gloucester Cathedral stands 9 miles away (20 minutes). The Cotswold Water Park offers watersports 12 miles away (25 minutes).

Secret Island Yurt suits couples wanting a back-to-basics glamping experience. The wood burner and hot tub create a cosy retreat.

Check Prices & Availability »
At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

More Glamping With Hot Tubs You May Like

Local Insights: Secret Island Yurt

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Beckford, Gloucestershire

Weather & Local Conditions

12°C

Overcast

Updated: 22 Aug 2026, 2:54am

🌡️
12.40°C
Temperature
💨
10 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
93%
Humidity
🧳
Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever August throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

  • May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for long days out, gardens and BBQs
  • October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
  • December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
  • March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: A cosy glamping stay comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film beats a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Secret Island Yurt sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Property

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
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Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share of an evening.

Location & Elevation

41m

(135 feet above sea level)

Secret Island Yurt sits in a peaceful Gloucestershire setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a glamping escape.

🏔️
41m
Elevation
📍
Beckford
Nearest Village
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Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
  • Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits
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Driving Note: The roads to Beckford are typical Gloucestershire lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 52.0245629° N | Longitude: 2.0318857° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Beckford (Saturday, 22 August 2026):

5:02am

Sunrise

6:19pm

Golden Hour

7:19pm

Sunset

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5:02am
Sunrise
🌇
7:19pm
Sunset
📸
6:19pm
Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
  • Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (6:19pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

August Daylight

This month in Beckford, you have approximately 14.30 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the property.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Secret Island Yurt.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡
Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

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Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Gloucestershire. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

Data updated: 22 Aug 2026 | Location: 52.0245629, -2.0318857

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their stay at Secret Island Yurt

Wood-Fired Hot Tub

The private wood-fired hot tub provides a romantic setting for evening soaks under the stars in complete countryside peace and quiet.

Traditional Yurt Experience

Authentic Mongolian yurt construction with felt covering and wood burner creates a proper off-grid glamping adventure in the Cotswolds countryside.

Peaceful Rural Location

Complete seclusion in Gloucestershire countryside with open fields and woodland walks right from your door for total relaxation.

Wood Burner Warmth

Traditional wood burner keeps the yurt cosy throughout your stay and adds to the authentic camping atmosphere and experience.

Outdoor Living Space

Private firepit and BBQ facilities let you cook outdoors and enjoy evenings by the fire in your own secluded spot.

Stargazing Opportunities

Minimal light pollution in this rural location makes it perfect for watching stars from the hot tub or around the firepit.

Getting To Secret Island Yurt

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Secret Island Yurt by car, take the M5 to Junction 9 and follow signs towards Tewkesbury on the A438. Turn onto minor roads following directions to your postcode GL20 7AU. Parking is available on site.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Ashchurch for Tewkesbury, approximately 3 miles away. From there, you'll need to arrange a taxi to reach the yurt as public transport is limited.

On-site parking available
Ashchurch for Tewkesbury station (3 miles)
Accessible from M5 Junction 9

Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff to see & do on your glamping break!

Tewkesbury Abbey
Distance: 4 miles
GL20 5RZ
Cheltenham Racecourse
Distance: 8 miles
GL50 4SH
Gloucester Cathedral
Distance: 9 miles
GL1 2LX
Cotswold Way National Trail
Distance: 6 miles
GL52 3JE
Bredon Hill
Distance: 7 miles
GL20 7EE
Ashleworth Ham Nature Reserve
Distance: 5 miles
GL19 4JA
Tewkesbury Town Centre
Distance: 4 miles
GL20 5AL
Cheltenham Town Centre
Distance: 8 miles
GL50 1QZ
Gloucester Quays Outlet
Distance: 10 miles
GL1 2EH
Tewkesbury Taxi Services
Distance: 4 miles
GL20 5RN
Ashchurch for Tewkesbury Station
Distance: 3 miles
GL20 8JN
Tesco Superstore Tewkesbury
Distance: 4 miles
GL20 8SD
Tewkesbury Abbey
Distance: 4 miles
GL20 5RZ
Cheltenham Racecourse
Distance: 8 miles
GL50 4SH
Gloucester Cathedral
Distance: 9 miles
GL1 2LX
Cotswold Way National Trail
Distance: 6 miles
GL52 3JE
Bredon Hill
Distance: 7 miles
GL20 7EE
Ashleworth Ham Nature Reserve
Distance: 5 miles
GL19 4JA
Tewkesbury Town Centre
Distance: 4 miles
GL20 5AL
Cheltenham Town Centre
Distance: 8 miles
GL50 1QZ
Gloucester Quays Outlet
Distance: 10 miles
GL1 2EH
Tewkesbury Taxi Services
Distance: 4 miles
GL20 5RN
Ashchurch for Tewkesbury Station
Distance: 3 miles
GL20 8JN
Tesco Superstore Tewkesbury
Distance: 4 miles
GL20 8SD

Is Secret Island Yurt Right For You?

Is this hot tub glamping retreat best suited to couples or families? What standout glamping features and private hot tub can you look forward to? And is it a dog-friendly getaway? Discover if this short break is the right for you.

For Families
Secret Island Yurt is not suitable for children. The property sleeps only two guests and is designed specifically as a romantic couples retreat. The off-grid nature, wood burner and hot tub require adult supervision. The rural location has no specific facilities for children or families.
Glamping Features
The authentic Mongolian yurt features traditional felt covering and wooden lattice walls spanning 16 feet. A wood burner provides heating and creates atmosphere. Outside, the wood-fired hot tub takes centre stage for starlit soaks. The firepit and BBQ facilities extend your living space outdoors. Solar panels provide limited electricity for lighting, maintaining the off-grid experience.
Pet Friendly
Pets are not allowed at Secret Island Yurt. The property operates a strict no-pets policy to maintain the peaceful atmosphere and protect the yurt's interior. The rural location has livestock in surrounding fields which makes it unsuitable for dogs. Guests with pets should look for alternative accommodation in the area.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Secret Island Yurt

The Bell Inn Tewkesbury

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: GL20 5SA

The Royal Hop Pole Hotel

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: GL20 5RS

Owens Restaurant Tewkesbury

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: GL20 5AL

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Secret Island Yurt

Is Secret Island Yurt pet friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property. The yurt is designed as a peaceful retreat for two guests only.
How does the wood-fired hot tub work?
You light the wood burner attached to the hot tub which heats the water over a few hours. Full instructions are provided on arrival and wood is supplied for your stay.
What cooking facilities are available?
The yurt has a small kitchen area with basic equipment. Outside you'll find BBQ facilities and a firepit for outdoor cooking and evening entertainment.
Is there electricity in the yurt?
The yurt provides an off-grid experience with limited electricity from solar panels for lighting. You should bring torches and power banks for charging devices.
What bedding is provided?
The double bed comes with all bedding including duvet, pillows and linen. Towels are also provided for the bathroom and hot tub use.
How far is the nearest shop?
The closest shops and supermarkets are in Tewkesbury, approximately 4 miles away. You should bring all supplies with you as the location is rural and secluded.
What's the check-in process?
Check-in is from 4pm and checkout is by 10am. The owners will meet you on arrival to show you around the yurt and explain all facilities including the hot tub.
Is the yurt suitable for winter stays?
Yes, the wood burner keeps the yurt warm in colder months. Extra blankets are provided and the hot tub is particularly enjoyable during winter evenings under clear skies.

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Secret Island Yurt Reviews

Robert
The location is conveniently just off the M5 and an excellent base to explore the Cotswolds. The Yurt is literally on, and overhanging, a lake which you look forward to coming back to, after a day out ,where you can sit in the near quiet watching the wildlife doing their thing. We saw geese, ducks, red tailed kite, heron, bats and a deer. Beautiful. The Yurt is unique and functional but, being critical, it could do with a little freshen up and dust cobwebs inside, had to fix deckchair to use, entry in visitor book said provided DAB radio didn't work etc...but you do have to remember the exact accommodation you have booked and where it is..spiders and the odd creepy crawly should be expected. Would we return? Absolutely...didn't want to leave.
Fraser
We had a lovely stay at the Yurt its tucked away private and a luxury my one and only complaint is the awful plumbing job on the bath which led the water to flood out and we spent near an hour mopping up the floor and scooping water out the bath to then pour down the sink instead. Im not sure if the previous customers had broke and hence not reported but this shouldve been seen to and addressed Other than this setback it was a 1010 stay and lovely hosts would stay again.
Judith
We really enjoyed our week at Secret Island Yurt it was secluded, very relaxing and just what we needed and wanted. Fishing and the use of the boat kept my husband happy and busy! Wildlife was great
The position and facilities were faultless but the porch area, windows and decking glass could be a little cleaner. Overall, though, we had a great stay
Connor
Hi very pleasant place and loved it to chill out but I was not happy that it ... Hi very pleasant place and loved it to chill out but I was not happy that it says on the add if you have booked online before to arrange booking direct to the person so I tryed that and had zero response atal and I even cleaned the place better than it was when me and my partner got thare and I even proposed to her thare and shy is know my wife so unless Sarah gets back to me and is nice to me again as I have done nothing wrong then I'm not going back thare but if shy gets back to me I will go back thare and book Through Sarah again kind regards Connor and Hannah
Stephanie
Absolutely wonderful and magical ! Came here 10 years ago and always wanted to return as it was our favourite place to getaway We wondered if it would be as amazing as we remembered and it was actually even better, more beautiful, tranquil, almost surreal with the surroundings and absolutely perfect inside too! Absolutely perfect in every way and the owners were so incredibly helpful we cant thank you enough
Alan William
This is the ultimate in intimate getaways. You are completely surrounded by the sounds of nature without the intrusion of technology No WiFi brilliant! Poor phone signal bliss! If you simply can't do without the constant chatter from your devices go somewhere else, but if you do want privacy and relaxation this place is literally perfection. Be prepared to see Kingfishers, Woodpeckers, Kites and Buzzards, Deer hirds all on your back porch and from the privacy of your own hot tub where else can you get this experience? We've been all over the country and Europe, but we still come back to The Secret Island yurt and that has to count for something. Treat yourself to something special and tell me I am wrong if you can and no, I am not a member of the owners family, just a very satisfied customer.
Jonathan
Brilliant relaxing and romantic stay away in an idyllic location.
Nicola
This is an absolutely amazing place to stay ,we stayed in the secret island yurt and it was really that ,we never saw another person only wildlife ,ducks ,black swans ,geese and lots more was wonderful, no wifi ,no tv ,although there is a projector screen and dvd player and an assortment of films . We found the yurt clean and comfortable, a little dated but everything worked and it is glamping not a 5 hotel , There is a pub about 8 mins walk away and a coffee shop but no grocery stores close by so dont forget to bring all your supplies . We would definitely come back it was an amazing place to be .
Andrea
Great place, location and idea, our only feedback is that it seems the owners have given up on maintaining this property. We saw the reviews on cleanliness etc. but decided to give the benefit of the doubt, unfortunately it didnt pay off on this occasion. There was no effort put in to welcoming or preparing the yurt for guests which is such a shame as it really is an amazing spot.
Lovely place to stay and relax lake was beautiful and owner you never seen which ... Lovely place to stay and relax lake was beautiful and owner you never seen which is perfect but had no doubt would have been there if needed a problem solving would have no hesitation in booking again
Michael
Lovely time beautiful secluded site will return again. Met property owners on arrival very helpful and friendly, could easily contact them were it needed.
Absolutely faultless. Me and the Mrs had an amazing time. The secret island yurt was just brilliant and the location is perfect Id like to thank Sarah and Dave for letting us stay in this amazing place and we will definitely be back!!
Alan William
This is a fabulous property to stay in. The location and access is brilliant.
1st stay, was amazing getting back to basics. Cant wait to book our next visit. Everything was as it said and I have already told my friends they need to go and stay it was that amazing.
Although the yurt was clean it was a little shabby & could do with a little bit of TLC. For example the outer cupboard door of the fridge was not attached so you had to open the actual fridge by grabbing the top of the door. The yurts position on the island was lovely & secluded, & not having a TV or WiFi was quite refreshing as you really felt yourself relax & get away from everything.
Only met expectations as we have been at one of the yurts on about 11 ocassions and always had a fantastic stay. Wonderful tranquil holiday.
We loved our stay in the Secret Island Yurt it was a great place to switch off from the rest of the world and relax, but also well placed to do some exploring. It was very peaceful and we enjoyed listening to the sounds of the wildlife such as ducks, geese and swans visiting the yurt each day. The yurt has good facilities everything you need for a week away and it was great having a hot tub also. It was just as lovely in the sunshine as it was in the rain, so don't worry about what time of year you book a stay here.
Frances
We have been before so knew what to expect. Not glamping .A few spiders and a bit of snagging all of which was sorted by Dave and Sara and handyman Dave too. We will be back next year .its a one off special place .
A truly wonderful location for a peaceful, secluded break for a couple.
The surroundings were spectacular and secluded and were as we'd expected. The bedlinen was clean and fresh, and the toilet sink and bath were clean, as was the fridge and cooker. However the general cleanliness was lacking and the standard of the yurt was poor. Previous reviews have suggested that the yurt is in need of some TLC and that it was shabby.......this is in my opinion an understatement........dust, sticky handles, cobwebs and when we first walked in there was a strong odour. The outside furniture was dirty and would have needed to be cleaned thoroughly before we used it, which we were not prepared to do. At the very least we expected the property to be scrupulously clean, especially given current circumstances global pandemic. We did not take this up with the owners, who live on site, as we felt that it was not something that could be put right in a couple of hours, and we did not feel that we wanted to have to unpack etc, or vacate the yurt for any length of time. In spite of this, we did enjoy the week, and the surrounding area is beautiful. Would certainly go back to this area, but not to this accommodation. I'd suggest that anyone considering making a booking, should read the reviews further back than this year, and also for the other yurts on the site. The problem of cleanliness seems to be a recurring theme, going back some time, and one which neither the owners nor Sykes cottages appears to have addressed.
Angela
The concept of a secret yurt on a lake enjoying the peace and tranquillity and the natural surroundings met all expectations and more. However the accommodation needs a bit of tlc, it looks tired and in need of a thorough clean. That said, we did enjoy our week there. Of note, dont expect a welcome pack or complimentary toiletries and do remember to take your hairdryer and dvds
Justin
This was the best break away we have ever had, I mean it was so amazing and so ... This was the best break away we have ever had, I mean it was so amazing and so perfect for me and my girlfriend and the perfect spot for me to propose to her, we were a bit late checking out yesterday morning but the owners was understanding and I explained the situation etc would love to go back one day would recommend this place to every one
Hannah
Its a great place and so special to be so secluded. This outweighs the fact that the yurt is looking a little shabby which we werent expecting, but the fact that you are surrounded by nature and wake up to the birds and water every morning was lovely.
It is not a 10 only because there should be more flexibility from Sykes to managecancelamend the bookings. The yurt itself is brilliant and fulfilled all my expectations.
The environment surrounding the Yurt is wonderful and being on the lake enables us to see all the wildlife. I cannot overstate the enjoyment and relaxation we have in all our 9 visits in 10 years.
The Secret Island Yurt was everything that we had hoped for and more. We were looking for a few days away with nothing to distract us from each other and the yurt was just perfect for this. There was everything that we needed and nothing more. The upstairs bedroom got a bit warm in the afternoons, but that's okay because there's an air conditioning unit up there. The conservatory on the front got a little chilly in the evenings, but that's okay because there's a little heater out there. The hot tub and log fired heater outside were brilliant and it was lovely to have a full size fridgefreezer, oven and induction hob. The lake outside was covered in wildlife and fascinating at any time of day. Not having a television was a lovely bonus!
Gareth
It was a wonderful stay in an amazing location, absolutely perfect. Cannot recommend it enough, if you are looking for a few days downtime to recharge your batteries this is the perfect place! 10 out of 10 from us!
Amazing location, perfect for getaway especially in current situation. Loved the boat, hot tub and log burner added an extra touch
We were unable to lock any of the doors at the yurt. We rang the owners about this on the second day, but they could not fix the problem until the following day. We therefore had to sleep two nights without the property locked, so did not feel very safecomfortable at night time
The peace, quiet and wildlife away from it all.
Alan William
This is a superb place to get away from it all
We had an absolutely fantastic time, staying in the secret island yurt and would recommend to anyone looking for and idyllic, romantic break away from the huddle and bustle of every day life. Would definitely come again. The lake is so picturesque, a lovely way to spend a weekend.
Very tranquil and peaceful holiday. Could do with cupboards in bedroom, enough room for them. Hanging hooks by hot tub would be useful for gowns. There was an unfortunate fishy smell which we could not locate, but didn't spoil things overall. We would love to return next year.
Fantastic yurt, excellent location and very private. Nicely furnished and the bed is extremely comfortable
Jonathan
We loved it so much, we've booked to go again.
Met our expectations because this was a 2nd visit to this Yurt. This is not a 5 star hotel type holiday it is a Yurt but you are by the side of a wonderful lake where you have privacy, peace and just the company of the ducks, swans, herons etc. The trip round the lake in your own little boat is maybe the only time you will see another person. We did not. The hot tub, barbecue and outdoor log burner are just extras to be enjoyed. You know the owners are available should you need them but they leave you to get on and enjoy your time away from the outside world.
Davina
Excellent place to stay, felt much freedom allowed to explore on the lake and completely left alone
Michelle
Beautiful and peaceful! ! Great facilities. Will be returning here for sure!
The facilities and setting of this very unique property provided the perfect weekend getaway.
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