Happy glampers may soon be pitching up at Leeds Castle.

Plans have been submitted to transform a disused vineyard in the grounds of the historic 12th century venue into a campsite for those who take a more stylish approach to alfresco living.

The proposal is to construct eight medieval-style tents replete with four-poster beds and wood-burning stoves.

Made from fire-proof canvas, the tents will stand on timber decking bases with wayfinding lighting ensuring tourists won’t have to fumble around in the dark to find their luxury quarters.

And with plans to transform nearby Knights Cottage into a fully-furnished communal area, toiletry issues will also be taken care of.

The one-acre campsite will open from April 1 to September 30 with room for 60 car parking spaces, and will create two supervisor jobs.

Glamping is the one-word description for glamorous camping.

It stems from campers who craved a ‘back to nature’ experience without the damp clothes, aching back, leaking tent and primitive facilities.

The trend has been made even more popular in recent years by celebrities such as Kate Moss (pictured right) who make use of luxury tents at the country’s top music festivals including Glastonbury.

The well-groomed stars of The Only Way is Essex also enjoyed a glitzy outdoor break in one of the earlier series of the ITV show.

Sean Gee, co-owner of Glamping Site, said: “Glamping’s popularity has worked as it combines the beauty of the outdoors with the elements of luxury people want to enjoy on holiday. Camping can be luxurious so why rough it?”

Luxury camping spots already exist in Kent, including indulgent outdoor accommodation at Little Halden Farm in Cranbrook, Yurts at Yalding, based in Marden, and Bloomsbury in Biddenen.

Prices for a one-night stay at Little Halden start at around £150.

Jonathan Hilder, who opened the venture with wife Sarah in August last year, said: “We decided to start offering glamourous accommodation as another way to generate income.

"The idea is people just bring their clothes and everything else is here for them. We are lucky to have some stunning views.”

Maidstone council is expected to make a decision on the castle glampsite later this year.