A country pub has unveiled three glamping pods in its grounds in a bid to allow it to bounce back after the impact of the pandemic.

The Woolpack at Benover in Yalding hopes the luxury overnight accommodation, set in a secluded two-acre field at the back of the pub, will prove a big hit.

The first guests arrived earlier this month with each pod capable of sleeping two adults and two children. All have en-suite shower rooms.

With heating in each, the pods will be available for hire year-round.

Planning for the pods - which are on a field already used by caravanners - was applied for two years ago by licensee Renata Spatinova and her husband Dave Bastable. The pub is owned by Faversham-based Shepherd Neame.

Dave said: “During the pandemic we were shut for nine months, and Shepherd Neame were really supportive. But the uncertainty made us want to do something to expand our offer at the pub and ensure its future success - we want to be here for a long time.”

Renata added: “It has been a long project and I have had a few sleepless nights. But we are a good team – Dave comes up with the ideas and I provide the muscle to get it done. We are very excited about this new business venture.”

The pods cost £125 a night to hire, with a minimum stay of two nights.

An entrance from the field leads to the pub's garden.

Dave added: “I think it is going to be enjoyable welcoming so many new people to the pub - different people who have travelled from different places. It’ll be fun.”