Set-aside review
The Shepherd’s Hut
The Shepherd’s Hut is located in a secluded spot, just a 5 minute walk from the HQ caravan and car park. The hut is very snug, with a comfy double bed and a cosy log burner. The hut comes well-equipped with kitchen equipment. An induction hob can be used for cooking, which is plugged into a power station (there’s no mains electricity). There is a hut at the back which provides plenty of storage space, as well as a composting toilet (there’s no mains water).
Outside there’s a picnic table and a fire pit. The hut is nestled amongst the woods, with beautiful views down to the Blackadder River. It is just a short walk away from the reservoir which is perfect for wild swimming. There are also plenty of glorious walks right on the door step. Luckily, my stay coincided with a Foraging Session, which I was able to join and thoroughly enjoyed. I would highly-recommend the Shepherd’s Hut. As a solo traveller I really liked how it was in a very private position, but also just a short walk to HQ. I had no problems checking emails/making phone calls etc.
Top tip: Bring wellies – the track to and from the hut can get muddy.
The Retreat
The Retreat is located in a remote spot, around a 15 minute walk from the HQ caravan and car park. It is nestled amongst some woods, with panoramic views of the hills to the front. The Retreat is very warm and spacious, with a cosy log burner, a couple of armchairs and a comfy double bed. It also has a loft bed, (I never got round to venturing up the ladder to try it out).
Outside there’s a large decking area, with seating and a fire pit. There’s good facilities on the decking area for washing up (please note, there’s no mains water) and there’s an undercover area which provides storage. Also on the decking area, there’s a large cubicle which contains a
composting toilet (so you don’t need to put your wellies on to go to the loo at night!). The hut comes well-equipped with kitchen equipment.
There’s no mains electricity, but an induction hob can be used when plugged into a power station. I would highly-recommend the Retreat. I appreciated how warm and nurturing it felt. I loved the beautiful views across the hills, and especially enjoyed looking at the moon when I was in bed at night. Despite the remote location, I had no problems checking emails/making phone calls etc.
Top tip: Be organized! The 15 minute walk to and from the hut means it’s best to think ahead when planning out your day. And, of course, bring wellies for the walk!
HQ
Guests at Set Aside also have access to ‘HQ’ – a cosy retro style caravan, made from a converted showman’s wagon. HQ is spacious and clean. It contains a hot shower; a flushing toilet; hot and cold running water; a kettle; a fridge and a microwave. It is located beside the car park, just a few minutes walk to the reservoir (so very handy for nipping in for a hot shower and a warm drink after a swim). There is a supply of towels as well as a heated towel rack.
The nearest shop is the Greenlaw Mini Market, a 5 minute drive away. The Blackadder Bar & Restaurant is well worth a visit – it serves delicious meals, including a Sunday roast.