Diversification in the farming sector is becoming increasingly popular and, according to Sykes Holiday Cottages, a surge in demand for glamping accommodation has seen many UK farmers turn to holiday letting to boost income.

According to brand new data from the holiday cottage rental agency, the number of people getting in touch looking to rent out glamping accommodation, including huts, pods, yurts and log cabins, has risen by 56% since 2019.

With a rise in holidaying at home and a growing trend of glamping trips, Sykes reports a 45% uplift in glamping bookings in 2021 compared to 2019 - a silver lining for UK farm owners who have chosen to diversify in holiday letting.

Sykes also reveals that, prior to the pandemic, the average Sykes glamping owner earned £13,000 in revenue annually from a hut, pod, yurt or log cabin, a number that has risen by 30% this year to £17,000 thanks to an increase in demand. 

For those weighing up where to invest, Cumbria and The Lake District are popular locations for glamping properties, according to Sykes, with Cornwall and East Anglia also proving popular amongst guests.

In terms of what features people want from glamping accommodation, owners can expect to make 56% more if they have a hot tub on site, while an open fire could help to boost revenue by 7%.

Other amenities like a BBQ or pizza oven are also recommended additions to complete the glamping experience for guests, while having WiFi actually tends to hinder revenue for glamping properties with many preferring a digital detox.

Bev Dumbleton, chief operating officer at Sykes Holiday Cottages, said, “Even for some time prior to the pandemic, at Sykes we’ve been noticing strong demand for glamping or farm-based holidays amongst British holiday-goers. Customers are always looking for a different type of holiday experience and glamping offers exactly that.

“The growing popularity of this type of holiday – and clear investment potential it offers to farmers or landowners – means that many are coming to us with questions on how to unlock the potential of their land.

“And with a stronger UK staycation market likely to remain a fixture for years to come, the long-term revenue opportunities for those considering entering the market now could be substantial.”