Established in 2011, The Pop-Up Hotel blends the thrill of glamping with all the comfort, service and facilities you’d expect from a luxury boutique hotel for a Glastonbury Festival experience to remember. The Pop-Up Hotel’s luxe glamping experience for 2024 includes creature comforts such as real beds, private showers and power to charge all-important devices. With a wide range of accommodation ranging from Classic Bell Tents to Tenthouse Suites, which have multiple bedrooms and an ensuite bathroom, The Pop-Up Hotel has options for everyone. Read on as we delve a little deeper into the history of two of these options: The Bow-Top Caravans and Airstream.
The Pop-Up Hotel’s Gypsy Bow-Top Caravans
Gypsy bow-top caravans, with their vibrant colours and intricate designs have long captured the imagination of people around the world. These nomadic homes on wheels have a rich history that spans centuries, reflecting the unique culture and lifestyle of the Romany people.
The Romany people are a diverse ethnic group with roots in South Asia. Their migration from India to various parts of the world began over a thousand years ago, leading to the development of a distinctive culture characterised by a nomadic way of life. The Romany people were skilled travellers, adapting to the challenges of a nomadic lifestyle. In the early days, they lived in simple tents and wagons, which served as both homes and vehicles which evolved into the iconic Gypsy bow top caravans we recognise today. These wagons were not merely practical; they were a reflection of the Romany identity and a testament to their commitment to preserving a sense of home wherever they travelled.
These caravans are renowned for their elaborate designs and vibrant colours. Each is a unique piece of art, adorned with intricate patterns and symbols that hold cultural significance for the Romany people. The exteriors often feature floral motifs, horseshoes for luck, and other symbols believed to bring protection and good fortune. Whereas the interiors are designed for functionality. Despite the limited space, these wagons were ingeniously crafted to maximise storage and comfort with foldable furniture, hidden compartments, and multi-purpose fixtures to allow the inhabitants to maintain a semblance of domestic life on the move.
For those who are looking to experience caravan living for themselves, we have two beautiful hand-painted Gypsy bow-top caravans on site at The Pop-Up Hotel, each suitable for up to 4 persons. These include traditional-inspired linens including duvets and pillows, bench seating, table and stools, storage space along with more modern conveniences including lighting, tea & coffee making facilities and USB charging points.
The Pop-Up Hotel’s Airstream
The Pop-Up Hotel offers an unforgettable experience for Festival fans with its iconic Airstream trailer. Inspired by the original American Airstreams established in the late 1920s by the visionary Wally Byam, these trailers are an iconic piece of American history which offers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern comfort for a Festival experience to remember.
A quintessential part of the American road trip experience, Airstreams are renowned for their distinctive rounded shape and polished aluminium exterior. But what many may not know is the fascinating story behind their creation. It all began as a solution to a marital disagreement. Byam, an avid camper, found himself at odds with his wife, who preferred the comfort of indoor living. Determined to bridge the gap between their differences, Byam ingeniously constructed the first Airstream atop a Ford Model T chassis, creating the perfect compromise between outdoor adventure and indoor comfort.
At The Pop-Up Hotel, we invite you to step into this iconic piece of Americana and make it your home away from home. Our Airstream accommodation is tailored for two, offering all the modern comforts and conveniences. The Airstream offers a private ensuite bathroom complete with a hot shower, basin, and toilet, ensuring you enjoy luxury amenities without sacrificing the charm of the past. Sink into a double bed adorned with crisp linens, including duvets, pillows, and towels, and indulge in the luxury of central heating on cooler nights.
But that’s not all; our Airstream is equipped with everything you need for a seamless stay. A full-sized fridge keeps your beverages chilled, while a TV/DVD and stereo provide entertainment away from The Festival. Stay connected with charging points for your devices and enjoy tea and coffee making facilities right at your fingertips. And for your peace of mind, each Airstream features a locking door, ensuring privacy and security throughout your stay.
