We’ve tried to provide everything so you just need to bring yourselves, but please do ask if anything is missing or there is anything else you need.
Facing East across the Vanellus has wonderful sweeping views over the Reserve and the Swale. Its also best positioned for barn owl watching. Keep an eye on the old oak trees at dawn and dusk and we hope you'll spot them hunting. So you don't disturb the owls and bird life please don't walk towards the water in front of the hut.
All taps in the huts and around the farmyard provide safe drinking water.
In your hut you'll find breakfast tea and freshly ground coffee. Please ask for fresh milk (dairy or oat) from the Linhay. The traditional kettle boils on the stove.
Outside the hut there is a gas stove, for boiling the kettle, and cooking simple meals. All crockery, cutlery and glassware is provided. You will find utensils stored underneath next to the firewood in a crate.
There is a washing up bowl, with environmentally friendly washing up liquid and sponges. If you have one of our hampers delivered - please don't wash up we'll collect it from you the next morning.
Outside there is a fire pit for evenings star gazing & toasting marshmallows. Complimentary marshmallows are in your hut. Wood, matches and firelighters are found beneath the stove. Extra wood should you need it is stored behind the office in the courtyard (there is an honest charge of £5 per extra bucket).
The ensuite hot shower and loo are inside the hut, and make the most of the view with Vanellus’ outdoor bath with a view. Towels and robes are provided. We also provide gorgeous natural products by Bramley, in full size bottles. If you would like to take them home you can purchase bottles from the Linhay.
All of our huts and cabins are designed with year round use in mind. The hut has a 75mm insulated cavity throughout, and Earthwool insulation. This is a breathable carbon-neutral material made from 80% recycled bottles. With heating, Romney Marsh Wool blankets and hot water bottles, we’re sure you will be warm and cosy, even on the chilliest of nights.
Please remove muddy boots before entering. Boot brushes are on the steps, and they will stay dry under shelter outside of the hut. There are hooks to dry out wet clothes. If you get soaked in a rain shower please do let us know and we can dry wet clothes!
Vanellus can sleep a young child or baby. Please do let our team know and we will set up a z-bed or travel cot as needed. Highchairs are also available on request. Please do note it is a small space designed to a traditional shepherd's hut model so the bed or cot will need to be put away in the daytime.
Vanellus is rather bijou, there is space under the bed for bag and hooks around the hut. Our team will happily look after larger bags for you.
A unique aspect of Elmley is that we are off grid, so generate our own electricity. Vanellus does have electricity, but please be mindful of excessive use.
4G can be picked up across the reserve, but we do recommend you switch off and soak up the nature around you.
If you need wi-fi it can be accessed from the Linhay or from the Farmhouse, or please speak to the team.