If you are driving through the picturesque countryside of Pembrokeshire and happen to spot what appears to be an alien spacecraft that has landed on Earth, there is no need to panic. You are not about to be abducted by extraterrestrials, but you may have just discovered a truly unique Airbnb listing that promises an out-of-this-world experience.
An Unusual Glamping Site in Rural Wales
Tucked away down a narrow country road near the quaint Welsh village of Templeton lies the Melin Mabes glamping site. This rural retreat offers three distinct accommodation options: a traditional caravan, a charming treehouse, and the most peculiar choice of all, the Spodnic UFO. This galactic-themed pod, which was once featured on the television show George Clarke's Amazing Spaces, is housed in a small fibreglass structure that the owners originally purchased on eBay.
From Olympic Generators to Sci-Fi Sanctuary
The UFO pod began its life as a utilitarian structure built for the London 2012 Olympics, where it was used to house generators. After the owners acquired it from the online auction site, they added their own creative touches to transform it into a unique staycation destination. Today, it is available for bookings through Airbnb or directly via the Melin Mabes website, offering a memorable escape for adventurous travellers.
Inside the Extraterrestrial Abode
Step inside the pod, and you will find a space that has been completely reimagined with silver walls, an array of sci-fi memorabilia, and numerous playful details. The accommodation features a double bed and a set of bunk beds, allowing up to four guests to share the experience, alongside whimsical touches like an inflatable alien figure.
At the heart of the pod, a ladder leads up to a platform crowned with a glass dome. From this vantage point, guests can use a provided telescope for stargazing or simply enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Welsh countryside. Outside, there is a covered kitchen area equipped with a fridge, cooker, and running water, as well as a table and chairs for al fresco dining.
The TARDIS Toilet: A Sci-Fi Adventure
Perhaps the most entertaining feature of this unusual stay is the bathroom, which is cleverly housed within a replica TARDIS box from the beloved Doctor Who series. This private facility includes a shower, toilet, and sink, ensuring that guests do not have to contend with morning queues at a communal shower block. While it may not be bigger on the inside like the fictional TARDIS, it certainly adds a fun, thematic twist to the experience.
Additional Amenities and Local Attractions
Adjacent to the Spodnic UFO, guests will find a private hot tub and an outdoor shower, with the entire outdoor space being enclosed for privacy and security. This setup also makes it pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along to enjoy the rural setting.
The glamping site is just a few minutes from Templeton village, where a cosy pub and several cottages can be found. A short drive away is the Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, a family-friendly attraction that offers fairground rides, a small zoo, a farm, and adventure play activities such as toy diggers. Folly Farm also provides its own accommodation options, including lodges and glamping, with guests receiving unlimited free entry to the attractions during their stay.
Approximately a 15-minute drive from the site is Saundersfoot Beach, a long sandy Blue Flag beach known for its clear, shallow waters, making it a popular spot for families on sunny days. At one end of the beach, there is a working harbour where small boats come and go, and a historic lighthouse that visitors can explore. Just steps from the harbour, numerous local restaurants serve freshly-caught seafood, offering a delightful culinary experience.
