If you’re wondering how to start a glamping business, this comprehensive guide is the perfect place to start.
The ‘glamping’ trend has captured the imagination of holidaymakers across the UK, with bookings for shepherd’s huts, pods and yurts up 67% in 2023. Bookings for these ‘back to basics’ type breaks have been steadily increasing year on year for some time, with the ‘cosiness’, ‘closeness to nature’ and ‘different experience’ all being cited as top reasons to choose glamping.
According to our parent company Sykes Cottages booking data, with the cost of a week’s glamping averaging at £564, it’s no wonder why many landowners, or those looking to start their holiday letting journey, are considering this as a viable business option.
This Helpful Holidays guide gives more information on starting a glamping business, and tips on making the most of your unused land by providing holiday accommodation.
How to start a glamping business
If you’re considering setting up a glamping business, there are a few important things you need to know. From the types of accommodation available to planning permission, these are some things you should consider before you start. Click the quick links below to jump to a specific section, or read on for our full guide on starting a glamping business.
What is glamping?
‘Glamping’ means glamorous camping, and it is a trend that’s fast becoming more and more popular as guests looks for an off-grid staycation. From yurts to shepherd’s huts and everything in between, glamping provides accommodation and facilities that are far more luxurious compared to traditional camping.
For people who love the outdoors but don’t want to compromise on luxury home comforts, glamping is the perfect getaway! What better opportunity to capitalise on this increasingly popular trend than by looking to invest in a glamping business?
Types of glamping business
Glamping is a diverse enterprise which includes many different types of structures, with an array of unique and architecturally creative properties being constructed as the industry expands. Among the many different types of glamping options out there in the market today, you’ll find the following:
Shepherd’s huts
These mini properties are hugely in demand and exceptionally desirable for couple’s getaways – one of our largest target markets! Last year, a massive 40% of our bookings were for couples looking for romantic escapes.
These properties are highly mobile and can be slotted into small corners of gardens, or nestled into orchards. Plus, they appeal to today’s consumer, who are increasingly looking for short breaks; at Sykes Cottages, we have seen a 9% year on year uplift in long weekend bookings for 2024, with 35% of Brits preferring more regular short breaks. Given the small nature of the living accommodation, these options lend themselves to shorter stays.
Shepherd’s huts come in an array of shapes and sizes. While some are rustic and elementary with only the most basic of amenities, there are those which allow guests the unique opportunity to relax in comfort and style with log burners, private hot tubs, and outdoor decking.
Yurts and glamping tents
Kitted out correctly, these semi-permanent structures are also highly desirable options, giving the camping experience without guests having to sleep on the floor, or share a bathroom with strangers.
The popularity of glamping accommodation, and self-catering holidays in general, remains high, with our recent customer survey indicating more than three quarters of British travellers will holiday in the UK this year. So, for owners that have unused land or are considering expanding their portfolio, now is the time to choose a level spot and get the ball rolling. This option has a lower cost and is relatively quick to install, so can provide a faster return on investment than some other types of glamping accommodation.
Glamping lodges and cabins
Over the last few years, glamping lodges and cabins have become increasingly popular. These structures tend to be a sturdy, all-weather option for outdoor enthusiasts or those looking for a unique getaway.
Often in rural settings, glamping lodges and cabins thrive when surrounded by the natural landscape, allowing holidaymakers to escape from the everyday and re-connect with nature. Investing in glamping lodges and cabins can be an excellent way of turning unused land into a profitable income source.
Barn conversions
Also popular are larger, permanent dwellings on farmland. Whilst converting derelict barns will cost more initially – both in terms of time and money – there is scope for the investment to deliver a financial return for many, many years to come.
Whatever farm diversification or glamping option you choose, for us to let the property it must have its own self-catering cooking facilities and bathroom(s). Bell tents with communal cooking and bathroom facilities cannot be let by us, whereas safari tents furnished and fitted with a kitchen and bathroom are within our remit. For more information on this, why not contact our New Property team to discuss your plans and get their advice today.
Planning permission for glamping businesses
Of course, with all of these options, it is important to understand the planning requirements in your area. Be aware that in most instances you will require some form of planning permission for accommodation that will be earning money. We suggest speaking with a rural professional team such as Stags for bespoke, detailed advice.
Alternatively, why not read our useful blog Planning Permission for Holiday Lets, which features information on permitted development rights, the costs and process for applying for planning.
It’s also worth being aware that recently the government has introduced new planning laws, giving local authorities the power to impose an ‘Article 4 direction’. Essentially, this is for use in areas with a high proportion of holiday homes, and it restricts properties from freely moving between being a residential and holiday home. In these areas, the owner will be required to seek planning permission before a property can become a holiday home.
Do you need planning permission for a yurt?
As a moveable entity, sometimes different planning rules can apply to yurts, depending on whether the accommodation meets various criteria. The ‘56 day rule’ means that, if your yurt is available to let for 56 days or less in a year and classed as an easily moved ‘temporary structure’, you won’t need planning permission. This is because you’ll qualify for Permitted Development Rights. However, to let your property through a holiday letting agency, the structure may need to be available for more of the year.
For specific advice, contact your local planning authority, as each area differs on their stance. Alternatively, why not contact a rural professional like Stags, to seek their advice.
Do you need planning permission for a shepherd’s hut?
If your shepherd’s hut is being used to make money, you will likely need planning permission. As your shepherd’s hut will probably be portable, you may not need planning permission if it’s for personal use, but holiday letting will require ‘change of use’ permission for the land it sits on. However, as with yurts, planning rules vary according to the local authority. It is imperative that professional advice is sought before installation of the accommodation and the commencement of holiday letting.
Glamping business rules and regulations
At Helpful Holidays, we are delighted to have a wealth of blogs available on setting your property up for success. Whether it be starting a glamping business, a farm diversification project, or holiday letting a cottage for the first time, requirements and advice mostly remain the same.
Holiday let tax
For farmers thinking of introducing glamping accommodation on their unused land, to run alongside their farming enterprise, we would suggest seeking bespoke advice from an accountant, to ensure your new venture is set up correctly and efficiently from a tax point of view.
We also have a tax guide here called ‘Holiday Homes, Tax and All Things in Between’, for more general advice.
Do glamping sites pay business rates?
Whilst all accommodation is normally eligible to pay either council tax or business rates, (depending on various factors like how long the property is let for annually, etc.) please be aware, every holiday home and local authority is different. We would suggest you seek professional advice for your individual situation, to find out the options available to you. We also have the following blog on council tax for holiday homes, to give you a little more information.
Holiday let insurance / Health and Safety
An essential part of setting up your glamping accommodation is arranging adequate insurance, and taking all necessary steps to ensure health and safety requirements are met.
Why not enlist the help of a specialist organisation such as Cornish Mutual, who’s dedicated health and safety advisors will be able to provide in-depth advice. Please be aware that public liability insurance is required, with a policy that is suitable for holiday letting and includes cover of £2 million claim per event.
We also have a ‘Property Safety Guidance’ resource which outlines legislative documents you legally need, and some health and safety considerations you should think about when setting up your property. Where external contractors are required, for example fire risk assessors or electrical appliance testers, we have a listed of trusted suppliers we can recommend in your area.
For information on the New Fire Regulations 2023, which covers the government guidance relating specifically to small holiday lets, check out this blog: New Fire Regulations 2023: Requirements for Holiday Lets in England.
Interior design for your glamping business
Naturally, various types of holiday homes each suit slightly different furnishings and interiors.
In glamping accommodation, guests will normally be expecting ‘posh camping’. In other words, all the comforts of a holiday cottage, but in a glamping pod. A fitted kitchen and carefully planned living space with stylish soft furnishings will make guests feel relaxed and cosy. Think about including a wood burning stove for year-round appeal, and adding statement pieces of furniture or rugs/wall hangings, to make the space feel more welcoming and homely.
Whatever you go for, remember if your accommodation is on a working farm, often your guests will look to make the most of being in this environment. They might ask to help you collect the hens eggs, or watch the milking taking place. Invariably, this will lead to muddy boots or dirty clothes – so ensuring your property is well equipped to deal with this situation is imperative. Hard-wearing, washable floors are a must, as is storage space to stash boots and coats.
Shepherd’s hut interior ideas
Very often, Shepherd’s huts arrive prefabricated with the interior already in place. However, if your shepherd’s hut is being made to order, be sure to choose fixtures and furnishings that will be durable and less likely to show wear and tear! Given these properties are small, keep the interior minimalistic and clutter free, allowing guests more room to move around.
In terms of colours and stylistic touches, most shepherd’s huts nestled on farmland are more rustic than ultra contemporary. Think about what best complements the surroundings. Huts in orchards, surrounded by trees, might have a countryside theme complete with gingham table clothes and sage green kitchen cupboards. Coastal huts might be better placed with blues and nautical touches.
Wherever you are located, a jug of fresh flowers on the windowsill never looks out of place!
Yurt interior design
As with shepherd’s huts, the main considerations are durability, and what is most suitable for the location and surroundings. The yurt’s furnishings should reflect its rural situation; guests won’t be expecting a five-star hotel, but instead a cosy, characterful retreat with everything they could need.
Why not include nods to the yurt’s location? You could include throws created using the wool from the farm’s flock of sheep. Or why not use upcycled animal feed troughs as flower planters outside, for a fun way to add a splash of colour to the entrance. Remember, the comfort of the beds and the quality of the linen won’t go unnoticed! Read our blog, Buying Beds for Holiday Homes, for more information.
How to make your glamping business eco-friendly
It is important also to consider your property’s impact on the environment. Many holiday makers actively look for eco-conscious accommodation, and any extras you can offer will make your glamping accommodation more appealing.
For example, why not add a wood-fired hot tub to your outside space, allowing guests a hint of luxury in an environmentally friendly way. EV chargers are increasingly popular for those with hybrid or electric cars, whilst air and ground source heat pumps are now a well-recognised means of heating.
Running a successful glamping business
Whilst demand is very high for glamping, fundamental to a successful business is ensuring accommodation stands out from the crowd, and meets the needs of a variety of customers.
So what does this mean in practice? Essentially, owners need to be as welcoming, flexible and versatile as possible. Value-adding features also make all the difference in attracting new and repeat customers:
Everyone is welcome – even the dog!
Accepting pets is key. As an organisation, we’ve experienced a 60% increase in searches for pet friendly holidays since 2019, and dog-friendly properties earn on average 4 extra bookings and 18% more revenue annually.
To make your accommodation as ‘pet-friendly’ as possible, ensure you have a secure outside space for the dog to roam around in and provide disposal facilities enabling guests to responsibly clean up after their dog.
For extra appeal, providing dog blankets, dog bowls and treats, and a list of good dog walks will make pets and their owners feel welcome. Of course, installing an outside shower, which can be used for both humans and dogs, can be a great idea if your property is near the beach, or in a spot where there’s lots of mud!
Up-selling and offering added value
If your glamping accommodation is on a working farm, why not offer your guests the chance to participate in day-to-day tasks, like collecting the fresh chicken eggs? Inviting them to enjoy these farm experiences – wherever it is possible and safe to do so – will give guests wonderful memories to go home with.
Given working farms are dangerous places and risk assessments are an essential part of operating safely, we suggest speaking with a Health and Safety advisor for thorough advice prior to the arrival of your first guests. For instance, Cornish Mutual have a team dedicated to ensuring your farm and diversification projects are fully insured and safe.
Short breaks and last-minute bookings
Whilst some owners may find the thought of short breaks and last-minute bookings off putting, the reality is that this type of getaway is exactly what many customers want and need. Last year, 25% of our bookings were made within four weeks of the holiday, and 21% of bookings were for shorter stays.
For owners prepared to take bookings until the day of arrival and willing to accept three or four night breaks, their income will become turbo charged! Two short breaks in place of one weeklong booking returns on average 160% of the weekly rental.
Cleaning, linen and guest feedback
The day-to-day running of a holiday home, once bookings start to take place, is another fundamental part of your property’s success. Guest reviews are incredibly important and the increasingly discerning customer is continually seeking perfection. This means being scrupulous with your cleaning, linen and property maintenance is paramount.
For those busy with other commitments, employing a caretaker to manage the property for you could be a good option. We can support you with arranging this, if required.
If you live on site, welcoming guests with a hamper or small token always starts a holiday well. Similarly, we suggest acting to remedy any issues or gripes swiftly – however big or small – as this will ultimately improve the experience of your guests.
Glamping business example
Little Silver House introduces four beautiful shepherd’s huts…
Following the success of their holiday let annex, in 2019 the owners of Little Silver House identified the potential of their disused orchard as the ideal spot for shepherd’s huts.
Offering privacy, nature and seclusion in abundance, the site now holds four popular huts, called Little Silver Pheasant, Little Silver Fox, Little Silver Owl and Little Silver Leaf.
Each have their own private hot tub, designated golf buggy for accessing the property and sublime rural views across the valley. In 2023 Leaf, Owl and Fox achieved 52 bookings, 48 bookings and 36 bookings respectively! Find out more about how the owners Lisa and Peter transformed their overgrown land into an incredibly desirable holiday destination in our ‘Meet the owners’ blog.
Other types of holiday letting
Whilst introducing glamping accommodation is a relatively ‘quick win’ for farmers looking to diversify, there are other options to consider. For example, barn conversions and lodges are both popular.
Some farmers choose to try both diversification options, setting up glamping pods as well as converting abandoned barns. Communal facilities like play barns can then be used by guests in both ventures.
Also, offering multiple accommodation options across your farm might make your enterprise more appealing to larger groups. From multi-generational gatherings to long weekends for groups of friends, this is superb way of covering all basis and appealing to a wide variety of holiday makers.
Using a holiday letting agency
With every aspect of the above, a good holiday letting agency will be able to offer advice and support – whether that be by providing contacts, giving experience-based advice, or simply sharing their opinions on what might work best in their view.
Helpful Holidays are a South West holiday letting agency with over 40 years of experience, and a portfolio of over x holiday properties.
As part of the Sykes Holiday Cottages family, we offer national, industry-leading marketing exposure, combined with hands-on support from our local office in Dartmoor. We’re proud of this ‘best of both worlds’ approach, which helps us secure high numbers of bookings for owners, throughout the year.
Here are some ways we secure bookings for our owners:
- We have a £35m annual marketing budget, ensuring your property is seen across a variety of local and national media channels.
- We dominate in Google search results, with a 43.7% market share amongst the four largest competitors in the industry.
- We’re always expanding our wide network of partner sites, which includes Airbnb and Booking.com.
To discuss the services we can offer, and other glamping projects we have supported owners within the past, please contact our New Property Consultants today. They would be happy to talk to you and offer assistance at any point – whether you are just thinking of options initially, or are already in the midst of your project, we can help.
Glamping FAQs
How much does it cost to start a glamping business?
This very much depends on the infrastructure already in place on your site. If you already have drainage, water and electricity, that is a great start. If not, installing these services can be a significant cost. It is worth noting, you will only encounter this groundwork cost once, and any subsequent pods or huts in the same location will cost much less.
Remember, the installation cost isn’t just the amount you pay for your glamping pod. You need a hard standing for the accommodation, plus a parking area, lighting, and a good road access.
For a quote on a hut that meets your requirements, why not contact Blackdown Shepherd Huts?
What is the occupancy rate for glamping?
Whilst this varies depending on the location of the site, many Helpful Holidays glamping pods/yurts/huts have exceptional booking levels. As of 1st July, the best performing shepherd’s hut with Helpful Holidays was Orchard Retreat, with 45 bookings for 2024. Many more have 25+ bookings for the year already.
Is the glamping market saturated?
No! Every indication is that the market for glamping holidays is only growing, with demand remaining exceptionally high. Across Sykes Cottages, glamping bookings were up in 2023, but two-thirds of Brits have yet to try glamping.
With the on-going cost-of-living crisis, the rise of short breaks (or ‘staycation snacking’), not to mention the movement towards more environmentally friendly holidays, the growth potential for the glamping market is huge!
What type of land do you need for glamping?
Ideally, the site of your glamping accommodation would be flat, easily accessible and fenced. However, this is not totally necessary. Some of the more characterful and unusual glamping locations are nestled amongst trees, or set into hillsides with valley views.
The ‘Little Silver’ shepherd’s huts are so uniquely located that guests are provided with personal golf carts to use for the duration of their stay, to transport themselves from the car park to their accommodation!
For other top tips and advice on holiday letting, read our owner blogs:
Top tips on buying in the West Country
Converting a barn into a holiday cottage
Reasons to start a holiday let business in Somerset
South West Holiday Let Management
*As a holiday letting owner you are responsible for compliance with health & safety laws, regulations and guidance, and for having suitable insurances in place (not Sykes Holiday Cottages or its brands (Sykes)). From time to time, Sykes shares information with you on the topic of health and safety and insurance. When it does so, it is not providing you with advice (legal, financial, tax or otherwise); please seek your own as you see fit. In addition, it is not making any representations or warranties about the information being complete or free from errors or inaccuracies. Sykes shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising under or in connection with your reliance on it.
