World Camping Day 2023

The rise of luxury glamping – what we’ve learned over the

past 12 years.

Some of you will have heard the interview that we did with BBC Radio Derby

presenter, Jack Tymon, last weekend, where we shared our top tips for World

Camping Day and a few of the things we’ve learned about the glamping

industry since we founded our business in 2011.

We have been involved almost since the beginning, when glamping sites were

few and far between, and the interest in luxurious, boutique camping hadn’t

started to climb just yet. A lot has changed since then! Here are some of the

main things that we have noticed since we set out 12 years ago.

1) Personalised luxury. Visitors want unique, memorable stays that

completely meet their needs. From on-site wellness treatments to

candle-lit dinners and guided walking tours, the experiences at

glamping sites have increased and diversified since the early days.

2) Higher standards. Outstanding luxury finishes have become more

usual in recent years. Soft lighting, unique decorative details, a fridge

stocked with local, high-end ingredients for breakfast and luxuries such

as a pre-heated hot tub are becoming more sought after.

3) Glamping weddings. There has been a very clear trend towards

boutique, outdoor weddings largely driven by smaller budgets, and a

growing desire amongst couples in their 20s and 30s to have more

rural, festival-themed celebrations, with a tight group of guests.

4) Increase in corporate events. Particularly since the pandemic,

companies have started favouring smaller, more focused events

instead of large-scale conferences. There has been a noticeable uptick

in all-site glamping bookings with wellness activities, brainstorming

sessions or workshops incorporated.

5) Some variation in quality. With the increase in sites, Scaldersitch

Farm has seen much more variation in quality. The term can mean

anything from a pre-pitched tent with pillows, to a 5* luxury yurt with all

the trimmings. Sometimes consumers don’t have a clear idea of how

luxurious a site is until they arrive, which can result in disappointment.

6) Sustainability. Growing concern for the environment means that

customers are taking more notice of how eco-friendly glamping sites

are, and also want to see locally grown and created products available

in things like breakfast hampers and toiletries.

7) Beyond summer. The glamping season has gradually expanded to

cover other seasons, including winter. With the top-end sites offering

hot tubs, wood-burners, and other comforts, customers can enjoy a

cosy escape yet still be in the middle of the countryside.

8) Not just canvas tents. Glamping has moved beyond tents over the

past eight years and now encompasses tipis, yurts, pods, treehouses,

and other outdoor structures as well.

Glamping has really started to mature and is being embraced by increasing

numbers of people, particularly since the pandemic prompted a move towards

local, more nature-based travel. Some of the changes have been very

positive, such as the extension of the glamping season. It’s fantastic to see

people enjoying our beautiful outdoor spaces in autumn and winter, along with

the more traditional warmer months.

There is also a lot more choice with glamping locations in almost every area

of the country that you could imagine. This can be a little overwhelming and it

can be difficult to know which option to go with. Our advice would be to

research your site thoroughly and check things like online reviews, and social

media channels before booking. This will give you a good steer as to what

kind of site it is – some are more rustic, while others are firmly in the luxurious

camp (like Scaldersitch). Some are very quiet and perfect for couples, while

others will be better suited to families. There is something for everyone and a

bit of research will ensure that you decide on the site that is perfect for you.

Founded in 2016, Scaldersitch Farm is set in some of the Peak District’s most

stunning countryside, with the wide open skies making it ideal for star-gazing

and sunrise watching. It is surrounded by footpaths and cycle trails, and close

to Hartington Village, famous for its cheese, and home to a range of shops,

pubs and tea rooms. It is also convenient to numerous other Peak District

attractions, such as the Tissington Trail, Dovedale stepping stones, Arbor

Low, Buxton, and Bakewell.

Every last detail has been considered in the five award-winning, luxury yurts

and tipis at Scaldersitch Farm. From the Scandinavian hot tubs, which are

heated to the perfect temperature prior to arrival; to the fridge that is stocked

with premium breakfast produce; super king beds; private outside seating

area; and beautiful finishing touches, such as homegrown, freshly picked

flowers, it is the ultimate special setting for a getaway with friends or family.

For more information on our luxury tipis and

yurts, visit our Accommodation page