We have great friends. Over the years they have hosted us at many fab parties and this year we’re really thrilled to have a chance to return the favour.
Here’s the plan: three hours’ drive from Cambridge, in North Yorkshire, there is 20 acres of parkland around my mother’s house. Proper stuff, all decaying 18th century trees, rabbits and streams with a view over to the Big House (Scampston Hall). It’s heavenly in the summer and pretty easy to reach, being only a few minutes off the main coast road between York and Scarborough.
For one long weekend in the summer holidays we’re hoping to bring together all of our friends for 2/3 days of camping, barbeque, bring and share buffet, park cricket, bonfire building, fireworks, stargazing, tree climbing, stream paddling, home made music, outdoor movies and beer…
Not that you should spend all day stuck to a tent: Deer Park is less than 30 minutes from York, the beaches of the East Coast, moorland walks on the North York moors or family days out like Castle Howard, Flamingo Land and Pickering Steam Railway.
Some questions:
How will it work?
This is a private, by invitation party, but we can host quite a lot of people. Some of you will be familiar with Eudaemonism or Ice House and we want to run a similar model – if we all contribute a bit of cash and some help we can build our own ‘festy’ (that’s like a cross between a large party and a tiny festival, except without the £260 price tag and hellish carpark queues).
Where will we stay?
Tents, camper van, caravan, hammock under the stars. We have water on site and can arrange toilets (maybe even showers if people want) although no electrical hookups.
Catering?
Yes. Some combination of barbeque, bring and share buffet, spit roast and the cafe at Wolds Way Lavender (usefully next door) will see us through. More details to come.
Can I bring pets?
There is stock on site so please check with us before you bring along any dogs.
When will it be?
Good question! There are three potential weekends in August that might work. Please cast your votes on this Doodle Poll and we can test the waters for interest and decide on the best date.