What do some of the UK’s most successful glamping sites have in common? They didn’t stop at just a few pods; they scaled.
As demand for nature-rich yet luxurious stays continues to surge, site owners who expand strategically are seeing higher occupancy, stronger brand visibility, and bigger returns. Adding more pods, when done right, can transform a small retreat into a high-performing glamping destination.
In this blog, we’ll dive into three real-world case studies that show exactly how glamping businesses scaled successfully with more pods. From smart expansion timelines to guest experience upgrades, these stories reveal what it takes to grow without losing the charm that made your site special in the first place.
Why Expansion Makes Sense for Glamping Businesses
If your glamping site is consistently fully booked, or you’re turning guests away during peak seasons, it’s a strong signal that your business is ready to grow. Strategic expansion by adding more pods can significantly boost your profitability, brand value, and long-term success.
Here’s why scaling up is a smart move for glamping business owners
• Surging Demand for Year-Round Stays: The UK glamping market has expanded rapidly since 2020. Guests aren’t just booking in summer. They’re looking for warm, well-insulated pods during autumn and winter too. Expanding now means you can meet rising demand and capture more off-peak revenue. Home Living Luxury’s pods are well-insulated and are ideal for year-round use. Check out our pod collection here.
• Better ROI Than Traditional Pitches: Unlike basic tent pitches, pods offer higher nightly rates and can operate year-round. This means more bookings per square metre, less seasonality risk, and significantly stronger returns on investment. Check out our Glamping Pod ROI Calculator to see how much revenue our pods can bring for your business.
• Flexible Pod Options to Diversify Your Offering: Adding different types of glamping pods, such as ensuite units, luxury couples’ retreats, or family-friendly cabins, allows you to appeal to a wider audience and upsell premium experiences. See our different pod shapes and designs here.
• Increased Brand Visibility: More pods mean more content to showcase, more guests to generate reviews, and greater word-of-mouth reach. As your site grows, so does your reputation.
• Streamlined Operations & Greater Efficiency: Managing more pods from a single site lets 12you optimise everything from cleaning schedules and staff hours to centralised check-in and guest communications, reducing your cost per booking.
Case 1: Hedgerow Luxury Glamping (Ribble Valley, Lancashire, England)
Hedgerow Luxury Glamping is a standout example of how a small rural site can evolve into a premium retreat through thoughtful planning, high-spec design, and a focused business model. Established in 2020 as a farm diversification project, this adults-only glamping site is located near Clitheroe in the Ribble Valley, Lancashire, which is just 20 minutes from the Yorkshire Dales. Surrounded by peaceful farmland, rolling hills, and tranquil ponds, it offers guests a luxurious countryside escape that feels both secluded and accessible. (Visit Lancashire)
Hedgerow Luxury Glamping is purpose-built for couples seeking a high-end, tranquil escape in the countryside. Positioned as an adults-only, boutique retreat, it offers a more intimate and luxurious experience than larger glamping parks. The business model centres on delivering romantic, private stays with premium comfort and highly personalised service provided by the on-site owners. By targeting a specific niche, luxury escapes for couples, Hedgerow has built a strong brand identity and maintains consistently high occupancy, especially for anniversaries, mini-moons, and special occasions. (Campsites)
Foxglove Glamping Pod at Hedgerow Luxury Glamping. Image credits to Hedgerow Luxury Glamping.
Expansion Timeline
• 2020: Launched with 3 luxury “mega pods”: Daisy, Buttercup, and Dandelion, all designed as romantic, adults-only retreats.
• 2021–2022: Due to consistently high occupancy and strong weekend demand, two additional pods, Willow and Foxglove, were added. One included a private infrared sauna to offer added exclusivity.
• 2023: Introduced a sixth, ultra-luxury pod, Bramble, while maintaining a “5 pod” marketing approach to preserve a sense of exclusivity.
Key Features & Amenities
Hedgerow Luxury Glamping delivers a high-end guest experience by blending boutique-style interiors with a tranquil countryside setting. Each pod is designed to feel like a private, luxurious hotel suite enhanced by nature and personalised service.
• Inside the Pod
• Private wood-fired hot tub
• Underfloor heating
• Roll-top copper bathtub
• King-size bed
• Smart tech integration
• Fully equipped kitchenette
• Glass patio doors and skylights
• Private Outdoor Space
• Fenced deck for privacy
• Fire pit and BBQ area
• Outdoor seating
Additionally, Hedgerow includes a range of thoughtful extras that leave a lasting impression. Guests are welcomed with fluffy robes and towels, a carefully curated hamper filled with local treats, and the chance to immerse themselves in on-site farm experiences from collecting fresh eggs to meeting the resident alpacas and Highland cows. (Campsites)
These personal touches add charm, authenticity, and a sense of connection to the landscape, helping Hedgerow build a loyal base of repeat visitors and maintain its reputation for exceptional stays.
Performance & Pricing
Hedgerow Luxury Glamping enjoys strong year-round occupancy, including during the winter months, thanks to the high level of comfort provided by its well-insulated pods and underfloor heating. This consistent performance highlights the value of investing in high-quality, all-season structures, like those offered by Home Living Luxury, for site owners aiming to generate revenue beyond the summer peak. See our well-insulated pods here.
Typical Pricing Structure:
• Low Season: £170 for a 3-night weekend stay (approx. £57 per night)
• High Season: Up to £760 per pod per week
Estimated peak weekly revenue for five pods ranges between £2,000 and £3,000, reflecting strong occupancy and premium pricing. (Visit Lancashire) This demonstrates how luxury glamping pods, when well-positioned and thoughtfully operated, can deliver excellent returns and reliable income throughout the year.
Marketing & Success Factors
Hedgerow Luxury Glamping has achieved strong brand visibility and guest loyalty through a well-executed blend of digital marketing, guest experience, and award recognition.
• 5-star reviews across platforms like TripAdvisor helped quickly establish trust and social proof.
• Awarded the Visit Lancashire Tourism Award for Camping/Glamping Park of the Year. (TripAdvisor)
• Active on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to showcase pod interiors, countryside views, guest testimonials, and seasonal updates.
• Maintains a clear niche as a romantic, adults-only escape, ensuring brand consistency across all channels.
• Delivers highly personalised, family-run service that guests consistently mention in reviews, leading to strong word-of-mouth and repeat bookings.
This approach has helped Hedgerow stand out in a competitive market, reinforcing its identity as a premium glamping retreat designed with couples in mind.
Case 2: Llanfair Hall Pods (Anglesey, Wales)
Llanfair Hall is a pioneering glamping destination nestled on a tranquil historic estate near Dwyran on the Isle of Anglesey, North Wales. Launched in 2013, it was the first site on Anglesey to introduce glamping pods, blending countryside charm with coastal proximity and setting a benchmark for glamping in the region. With easy access to local attractions like Llanddwyn Island, Newborough Forest, and the island’s picturesque beaches, Llanfair Hall offers guests the rare opportunity to enjoy both rural seclusion and seaside adventure. Its dark-sky setting also makes it a top choice for stargazing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat with premium amenities. (Top Rooms)
Llanfair Hall attracts a broad range of guests, including couples seeking a romantic countryside escape, families on school holidays, and active travellers like walkers and cyclists exploring Anglesey’s scenic trails. Each glamping pod sleeps 2–4 guests and features an en-suite bathroom, kitchenette, and private deck, offering comfort and convenience in a peaceful rural setting. (Campsites)
The business model is shaped around three core pillars: high-spec, weatherproof pods designed for year-round use; a thoughtful mix of private accommodation and well-equipped shared spaces to encourage a community feel; and a strong connection to nature, all while being just minutes from Anglesey’s top beaches and attractions.
Llanfair Hall Glamping Pods at Llanfair Hall. Image credits to Llanfair Hall.
Expansion Timeline
• 2013: Launched with 3 en-suite glamping pods (Cribinau, Lawd, and Llanddwyn), earning an immediate 5⭐ Visit Wales rating for quality and innovation.
• 2016: Added Seiriol, a family-friendly log cabin to diversify the accommodation offering while keeping pods central to the brand.
• 2017: Expanded with 2 more upgraded pods (Dulas and Tysilio), bringing the total to 5. These newer units included underfloor heating to boost year-round comfort.
• 2018: Converted a historic 18th-century barn (Peibio) into a luxury self-catering cottage, winning design awards and adding further guest capacity.
• 2020s: Under new ownership, the site continues to thrive, maintaining full occupancy during peak seasons, upgrading pod interiors, and reinforcing its 5-star reputation through continuous investment. (Top Rooms)
Key Features & Amenities
Llanfair Hall’s appeal lies in its seamless blend of comfort, countryside charm, and thoughtful amenities that cater to both couples and families. Nestled in the scenic landscape of Anglesey, the site balances privacy and sociability with well-equipped pods and shared communal spaces that elevate the overall guest experience. (Campsites)
Each glamping pod includes:
• Double bed and sofa bed (sleeps up to 4)
• En-suite bathroom and kitchenette
• Electric heating, TV/DVD for cosy evenings
• Private deck with countryside views
• Site-wide amenities include:
• Two shared, fully equipped kitchens
• BBQ hut and wood-fired pizza oven
• Seasonal geodesic dome
• Access to scenic trails and open green spaces for children and pets
• Wood-fired hot tub (included with the log cabin and bookable by pod guests)
This thoughtful mix of private comforts and communal features encourages a warm, friendly atmosphere without compromising privacy. (Campsites)
Marketing & Strategies
Llanfair Hall’s marketing strategy blends strong branding, award recognition, and personalised service to stand out in a competitive glamping market:
• Award-Winning Credibility: The site leverages its accolades, including the Visit Wales Gold Award and the Go North Wales Award for Best Holiday Accommodation, to build authority and reassure prospective guests.
• Top Listings Across Platforms: Visibility is maximised through strategic listings on Booking.com, Airbnb, and major glamping directories, ensuring high traffic and year-round enquiries.
• Reputation-Driven Growth: Consistently glowing guest reviews have helped Llanfair Hall become the #1 ranked Speciality Lodging in its area on TripAdvisor, reinforcing guest trust and driving repeat bookings.
• Local Experience Packages: By partnering with local providers, the site offers added value through experience bundles such as clay pigeon shooting, guided walks, and curated local hampers, creating a more immersive stay.
• Personalised On-Site Service: What truly sets the site apart is the warm, personal approach. On-site managers welcome each guest personally, offer tours, and even provide transport to nearby trailheads, enhancing the overall experience and fostering guest loyalty.
This well-rounded approach has helped Llanfair Hall grow its guest base while maintaining a premium, friendly, and memorable brand.
Case 3: Pod Umna Village (Portumna, County Galway, Ireland)
Pod Umna Village is a truly unique glamping success story, not just in scale, but in concept. Founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife team Dick and Liz Ridge, Pod Umna is widely recognised as Ireland’s first urban glamping village. Located just off the high street in the town of Portumna, County Galway, this innovative site transforms a quiet courtyard space into a woodland-style glamping village, complete with landscaped plots, picnic benches, and fire pits, all within walking distance of pubs, shops, and popular local attractions like Portumna Forest Park and the River Shannon. (Irish Times)
Pod Umna’s glamping model is built on accessibility, variety, and locally rooted experiences. The site appeals to a wide range of guests from families looking for easy, outdoor getaways to couples seeking romantic breaks, and groups such as stag and hen parties or team-building retreats in search of something memorable.
Its urban setting is a major point of difference: unlike remote glamping sites, Pod Umna offers the feel of a tranquil, woodland-style retreat while being just a short walk from cafés, cultural sites, and riverside trails. This balance of nature and convenience has become its core strength, allowing it to attract both short-stay visitors and holidaymakers looking for a central, experience-rich base.
Eco Pods at Pod Umna Village. Image credits to Pod Umna Village.
Expansion Timeline
• 2013: Launched with a small cluster of fully insulated eco-pods wired for electricity. The innovative urban concept quickly gained popularity.
• 2015–2016: Expanded offerings by introducing bell tents (sleeping up to 6) and a cosy shepherd’s hut to increase variety and summer capacity. Also launched Dick’s Bike Hire, an on-site cycle rental service that positioned the site as an activity hub.
• 2017: Gained national recognition in The Irish Times' list of “100 Best Places to Stay in Ireland”. Infrastructure improvements followed, including upgraded shower/toilet blocks and an indoor recreation room for families.
• 2021: Secured a €37,478 LEADER grant to support further site development. The funding was used to add family-focused features, improve communal areas, and expand pod capacity. (Data Oireachtas)
• 2024: Pod Umna now offers 8–10 eco-pods, seasonal bell tents, and a shepherd’s hut, with pods remaining the core of the guest experience. (Irish Times)
Key Features & Amenities
Pod Umna Village sets itself apart by offering a well-rounded glamping experience that balances comfort, convenience, and entertainment. By combining a variety of accommodation types with high-quality communal facilities and on-site activities, the site appeals to a broad range of guests from families and couples to adventure-seeking groups.
Accommodation options include:
• Eco-Pods: Cosy, insulated wooden units sleeping up to five guests. Some pods feature bunk beds or vintage-inspired wrought-iron furnishings, creating a warm and characterful space.
• Bell Tents: Spacious and stylish summer-only tents with proper beds and homely interiors, perfect for families.
• Shepherd’s Hut: A charming, romantic option for two, offering privacy and a nostalgic countryside feel.
Communal amenities:
• A fully equipped indoor kitchen and dining area
• Spotlessly clean shared bathrooms with hot showers
• An indoor recreation room filled with games and activities for children
• Outdoor fire pits and picnic tables for alfresco dining and stargazing
• Activity packages:
• Kayaking and boat tours on the River Shannon
• Guided forest walks and nature hikes
• Go-karting, paintball, and other group-friendly adventures
• On-site bike hire for easy access to local trails and attractions
Together, these features make Pod Umna an all-in-one glamping destination that delivers comfort, fun, and flexibility all within walking distance of Portumna’s high street, pubs, and cultural landmarks. (Irish Times)
Key Takeaways for Glamping Site Owners
Scaling a glamping business successfully requires foresight, quality, and the right partners. Begin by planning for future growth, even if you’re starting with just a couple of pods; smart site layout and infrastructure choices now will make expansion easier later. Prioritise guest experience at every stage by investing in high-spec features like private bathrooms, premium insulation, and extras such as fire pits or hot tubs.
As your site grows, lean on automation tools like channel managers, booking platforms, and smart locks to streamline operations and reduce admin time. Don’t overlook marketing: a larger site deserves updated photography, strong social media storytelling, and SEO-optimised listings to boost visibility. Most importantly, choose a pod supplier who understands your vision and can support scalability through tailored, high-quality designs like the range offered by Home Living Luxury.
At Home Living Luxury, we go beyond glamping pods. We help site owners create cohesive, high-end outdoor experiences by supplying premium amenities that elevate both functionality and guest satisfaction. Our amenities are crafted to complement your pods, encourage longer stays, and enhance the overall atmosphere of your site.
Here’s what we can provide as part of your full-site setup:
• Wood-Burning Hot Tubs & Cold Plunge Tubs
• BBQ Hut
Each amenity is customisable, built from premium materials, and designed to match the aesthetic of your glamping site. We handle the design, delivery, and installation to make scaling your site seamless.
Conclusion
The success stories of Hedgerow, Llanfair Hall, and Pod Umna Village show that scaling with more glamping pods isn’t just possible. It’s highly profitable when done with care and strategy. From boosting occupancy and diversifying guest offerings to increasing brand visibility and operational efficiency, expanding your site can unlock new levels of growth.
At Home Living Luxury, we help glamping business owners scale confidently with expertly designed, all-season glamping pods that are built for comfort, durability, and return on investment. Whether you're starting with a few pods or ready to expand an existing site, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Summary
• Successful glamping sites scale by adding more pods strategically
• Expansion boosts occupancy, revenue, and brand visibility
• High-spec, insulated pods allow for year-round bookings
• Offering a variety of pods attracts more guest types
• Hedgerow grew from 3 to 6 luxury pods with premium amenities
• Llanfair Hall scaled from 3 to 5 pods plus cabins and shared spaces
• Pod Umna transformed an urban site into a glamping village with 10+ units
• All focused on strong branding, quality, and guest experience
• Smart expansion with Home Living Luxury leads to long-term success
FAQs
1. How do I know when to add more pods to my glamping site?
You’ll know it’s time to expand when your existing pods are booked out consistently, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Turning away guests, long waiting lists, or frequent enquiries from families, couples, or groups that you can’t accommodate are clear indicators of untapped revenue potential. If your pods are generating strong reviews and repeat bookings, scaling with additional units can help you maximise demand while maintaining quality.
2. Will adding more pods affect the charm or exclusivity of my site?
Not if growth is planned with care. Expanding doesn’t have to mean overcrowding. Many successful sites, like Hedgerow Luxury Glamping, maintain a boutique, exclusive feel even after scaling by focusing on pod spacing, privacy, and consistent guest service. Thoughtful landscaping, staggered booking strategies, and distinct pod themes help preserve your brand identity while increasing capacity and revenue.
3. Which type of glamping pod is right for my business?
That depends on your location, target audience, and overall business goals:
• Hobbit Pods: Compact and cosy; ideal for couples’ retreats, farm diversification, or first-time operators entering the market.
• Halfmoon Pods: Spacious and versatile; perfect for family glamping, luxury getaways, or wellness retreats looking to upsell spa features like hot tubs or saunas.
• Viking Pods: Bold and rustic; ideal for themed sites, adventure parks, or businesses seeking a distinctive and shareable accommodation offering.
• Grotto Pods: Enclosed and atmospheric; best for romantic woodland stays and nature-immersed experiences with high visual appeal.
Explore our full pod collection here!
4. Can Home Living Luxury help me plan and deliver my site expansion?
Absolutely. We offer full-service support from initial planning, site layout guidance, and ROI projections to manufacturing, delivery, and post-installation aftercare. Every pod is made to order in our factory and fully customisable to match your site’s needs and branding. With energy-efficient designs, premium materials, and flexible configurations, our pods are built to perform year-round while delivering strong financial returns.
Book a free consultation with our team today. Link below!
