Couple trade London home for Carmarthenshire 80-acre nature reserve
BBC World
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Adam and Lou Bourns, a couple from London, made a life-changing decision to trade their busy urban lifestyle for an 80-acre nature reserve in Carmarthenshire, Wales. Driven by a deep passion for the outdoors and a desire for a slower, more sustainable way of living, they left behind their fast-paced city life in Brixton to create a unique glamping retreat. Over 14 years, they transformed the land into an award-winning eco-friendly destination, complete with off-grid cabins, solar panels, rainwater tanks, and grazing Exmoor ponies. Their journey highlights a growing trend of individuals seeking balance by embracing nature and sustainable living.
The couple’s move was initially met with surprise from friends and family, as leaving London’s bustling streets for rural Wales seemed unconventional. However, Adam and Lou were drawn to the area through their love of camping and outdoor activities, often escaping in their campervan for weekends in the Welsh countryside. Their decision to settle there in 2012 marked the beginning of a slow but rewarding transformation of the land. With help from friends and family, they built two cabins, a shepherd’s hut, and a barn, all designed with sustainability in mind.
The glamping retreat, named Under Starry Skies, has become a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is home to beehives tended by a local beekeeper, producing honey available on-site, as well as habitats for endangered species like the Marsh Fritillary butterfly and Brown Hairstreak butterfly. These efforts reflect the couple’s commitment to conservation and eco-conscious living. Their retreat has also earned recognition, winning awards such as the 2018 Carmarthenshire Tourism Association Silver Sustainable Tourism Business of the Year and being named the best stargazing accommodation in 2025.
Adam and Lou’s story resonates with anyone seeking a break from urban life and looking for inspiration to live closer to nature. Their journey demonstrates how a shift in lifestyle can lead to unexpected opportunities, not just for personal fulfillment but also for contributing to environmental conservation. As more people explore similar paths, their example highlights the growing interest in sustainable living and the potential for rural areas to offer fulfilling alternatives to city life.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/20/2026