Stunning views and peaceful locations have helped two Eden “glamping” sites win national acclaim.
Hadrigg Hall Glamping, based at Ellonby, near Skelton, was named as runner-up in the best newcomer award (UK) category, while Carrock Glamping Pods picked up the prize for best glamping site in the North West as part of the Campsites.co.uk Camping and Glamping awards.
Mary Wilson opened up the business with her husband, Alistair, in August, as a diversification project, running alongside their dairy and beef farm.
At present, they have two glamping pods on site and Mrs Wilson said they had already been busy.
Of the accolade, Mrs Wilson said it was a real surprise and very nice to be acknowledged.
The pods are set to open back up after a Christmas break on 5th January and Mrs Wilson said she was in the process of purchasing a hot tub which should hopefully be installed by the end of next month.
On the question of what makes their site so special, Mrs Wilson said: “I think it is the view that we have got and the peace and quiet of it all.
“Glamping is just an upgrade from tents. The glamping pods have got their own bathroom, shower, toilet, sink and have got their own kitchenette — so when people come they have got everything they need.
“There is a double bed and a sofa bed — so they have got extra comfort than a tent.”
Also involved in the business are the Wilson’s children, Amy, aged 25, and 23-year-old Adam. Mrs Wilson added that they were all very pleased with how the new venture was progressing.
“It was quite nerve-racking at the start, wondering how it was all going to go, but it seems to have all settled down well.”
David Pigg, aged 64, launched Carrock Glamping Pods at Linewath, Hesket-new-Market, two years ago in September, having retired from having a butcher’s shop in Dalston.
There are three pods at the site, which is overlooked by Carrock Fell.
“The location is tremendous,” said Mr Pigg, who added that all the pods were en-suite and two had outdoor hot tubs.
He said he had not expected to win the honour of having the best glamping site in the North West.
After a short break for Christmas, the business will be open again for bookings from 2nd January, with a minimum stay of two nights.
Before the festive break, Mr Pigg said they already had about 40 bookings. “We are a lot busier than we thought we would be,” he added.
A spokesman for the 2023 Campsites.co.uk Camping and Glamping awards said in total, 10 campsites in Cumbria picked up 12 awards.
“Church Stile Farm and Holiday Park (Seascale) picked up two big awards this year.
“It has been named best campsite and the best family campsite in the North West.
“It’s celebrated for its stunning location and beautiful views from the pitches. Host to a range of accommodation options and excellent facilities, a great spot for exploring the Lake District.
“Parkgate Farm Holidays (Holmrook) was another big winner, picking up awards for the best small campsite in the UK and the runner-up best campsite in the North West.
“The site is a great escape in a Dark Skies area of the Lake District, a peaceful retreat to get away from it all surrounded by nature and wildlife.”
Other Cumbria award winners included: Runner-up of best budget campsite (UK) — Cherry Trees Farm, Wigton; and winner of best caravan park (North West) — Wallace Lane Farm, Wigton.
“From the simplest, tucked-away camping spots to family-friendly holiday parks with swimming pools and luxurious glamping sites with the oh-so-welcome hot tubs, there’s something for everyone in every corner of the country — all going above and beyond for their guests.
“This year we’ve found new favourites with spectacular views, made friends with yet more alpacas, and loved the growing variety of food truck treats. It truly is great outdoors!
“A huge congrats to our winners. Thank you for setting the camping bar so high and giving us epic adventures to enjoy again and again,” the camping awards spokesman said.
