Orchard Blossom Glamping Site Opens Near Evesham with Japanese Tea Ceremony

A new glamping site in Cropthorne, Worcestershire, officially opened its doors with a cultural event that blended English and Japanese traditions. 

Orchard Blossom, a luxury outdoor hospitality venture near Evesham, hosted a tea ceremony that featured a combination of Japanese rituals and an English afternoon tea. 

The event was attended by Keisaku Sandy Sano, chairman of Japan Matsuri, a UK-based festival celebrating Japanese food and culture.

Mr. Sano, who also leads the Sakura Cherry Tree Project — an initiative to plant cherry trees across the UK as a symbol of Japan-UK friendship — visited the site during a tour of the Vale. 

Earlier in the day, he presented a gift of 15 cherry trees to The Valley retail centre as part of the project’s mission, according to a report by Evesham Observer.

The glamping business is the initiative of Helen Christopher and her partner Andy, who developed the site on four acres of land inherited from Christopher’s late father. 

The site includes five bell tent pitches, each with its own landscaped garden and features such as transparent roof panels for stargazing. 

Christopher described her motivation behind the project, stating, “I love this area and am thrilled to contribute to inbound tourism by attracting city dwellers looking for a digital detox and a chance to unwind in our stargazing bell tents with transparent roof panels.”

The development of Orchard Blossom was supported by funding from the Government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund, administered locally by Wychavon District Council.

Independent councillor for Harvington and Norton, Craig Reeves, offered his support during the event. 

“Orchard Blossom is a fabulous and unique addition to our travel and tourism offering here in the Vale. Helen’s outstanding vision and dedication frames perfectly the beauty of what we have to attract visitors. I wish her and her team every success.”

For professionals in the outdoor hospitality industry, Orchard Blossom represents an example of how combining cultural experiences with distinctive accommodations can enhance guest appeal and expand market reach. 

By leveraging public funding, incorporating regional identity, and aligning with international initiatives like the Sakura Cherry Tree Project, the venture illustrates a multifaceted approach to rural tourism development.