Fall is the perfect time to head to the woods for a weekend getaway. The days are still warm enough for getting outdoors and the cool nights are perfect sleeping weather. If you’re interested in a unique camping experience with five of your best mates, look no further than England’s The Big Green Bus.
Located two hours south of London in the Sussex countryside, The Big Green Bus is a decommissioned, 1982 West Midlands metro double-decker that has been transformed into a jaw-dropping cabin. This high-end “glamper” is outfitted with the best amenities, including a full kitchen, toilet, shower, and wood-burning stove. The lounge of the converted bus is stocked with books, board games, and an optional picnic basket that includes produce and locally sourced wine and cider.
The brainchild of carpenter Adam Collier-Woods, The Big Green Bus was designed to be a comfortable cabin without losing its original charm. Collier-Woods completely renovated the bus all on his own and kept many of the original elements in place, such as the stairs, signage, driver’s seat, and windows. The dining area features reupholstered bus seats. A bright, retro color palette makes the space feel airy and open, not at all cramped like you would expect a bus to feel. The goal was to create a peaceful retreat in the middle of the woods, a place to unwind and enjoy nature — there is no Wi-Fi or television on the bus.
But you won’t miss technology in such a beautiful location. The bus is set in the rolling hills of the South Downs area of Sussex. You’ll be able to spend your days walking or biking with plenty of pubs along the way). The Big Green Bus is just 30 minutes from the coast, giving you the opportunity for a day trip to check out the pier, restaurants, shops, and pubs of Brighton. There is also a popular farmer’s market in Lewes, a short 10-minute drive away — a great chance to stock up the bus’s fridge with food for the weekend.
Once you’ve taken in the surroundings and are back at camp, The Big Green Bus offers several niceties to help you unwind. The campsite includes a fire pit, outdoor heated shower, and a wood-fired hot tub — the ultimate way to relax after a long day of exploring.
