When my son began learning about WWII at school, my mind went into overdrive and a crazy idea took shape—a stay in a genuine 1940-era corrugated cottage, just outside Glastonbury, built for the Women’s Land Army (“Land Girls”) in 1940. And what better place to celebrate history than at The Corrugated Cottage, an authentic wartime structure restored by owner Michael Chapman—whose own grandmother served as a Land Girl—much like my Nan, Ruby, making this stay deeply personal and beautifully poignant.
Authentic Wartime Charm
This cottage isn’t a themed throwback—it is history. Constructed during the spring of 1940 from corrugated iron with tongue-and-groove panelling, it served the Land Army by housing city-born farmworkers. Michael and Mary (who also own Le Petit Fort) meticulously recreated the interior ambiance of the ‘40s, adding:
- A 1940s enamelled range with back boiler, period utility furniture, and Bakelite switches/plugs.
- A kitchen with original 1950s sink, larder, fridge, alongside a discreet modern electric hob and microwave for convenience.
- A claw-foot roll-top bath, overhead cistern toilet, and a wonderful record player with vintage LPs for atmospheric evenings.
Unplugged Family Bonding
We stayed just four days—and instantly regretted not booking longer! No screens, lots of board games, vinyl records, and wholesome conversations filled our evenings. Even our autistic elder son found calm in the nostalgia, our lively middle child embraced every nook of the place and the baby of the family was simply mesmerised by the cosy charm.
No sibling arguments—which was absolutely revolutionary on a family break away for us!
Playful Outdoor Discovery
The cottage stands alone beside the Chapmans’ property in a small wood inhabited by badgers, foxes, and tawny owls and mornings greeted us with visits from their friendly piggies! The fenced garden features:
- A picnic table with panoramic views across the Somerset Levels
- An Anderson shelter—originally a WWII bomb shelter—now a children’s den and barbecue area
Perfect Location for Day Trips
- 4-minute stroll across fields to the village of Baltonsborough—home to a pub, church, and local shop for essentials.
- Regular chip and pizza vans stop by the village to make take outs even more accessible.
- Close to Glastonbury: ideal for a day trip.
- Nearby attractions: Wookey Hole Caves, Lyme Regis Beach, Wells Cathedral, Stonehenge, Bath, Montacute House, Longleat Safari.
🔍 Practical Stay Details
- Sleeps 4 (5 at a push) in two bedrooms and sofa bed
- Steep upstairs access—not suitable for elderly/less mobile guests but perfect for kids. Our boys absolutely loved the charm of bedtime and climbing the ladder to a “secret bedroom”.
- Heating: coal-range wood burner with back boiler, electric storage radiators, wireless internet (no TV).
- Private off-road parking included.
- Awarded Channel 4 “Shed of the Year 2015” (historic category) but it is much more than a “shed”
Final Verdict: A Unique Family Escape
The Corrugated Cottage is not just a holiday rental—it’s a lived memory. It weaves schoolroom history into kitchen steam and fireside tales. Whether you’re teaching children about the Land Girls, WWII or simply craving a soulful break, you’ll leave with hearts full and phones forgotten.
If you’re searching for an authentically immersive, nostalgia-filled family retreat that ties education to experience—The Corrugated Cottage is unbeatable and excellent value for money in a great location.
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