In recent years, the UK glamping industry has witnessed an evolution from its traditional origins as a strictly summer season activity, to one that is now offering guests a unique blend of luxury and nature all year round. Whilst the bustling summer season may still be the revenue peak, the quieter winter months present an opportunity to upgrade the experience you provide for guests. So, what does this look like?

Routine Maintenance: Laying the Foundation

Use any time your spaces aren’t occupied to do a thorough inspection of the structures, repair any wear and tear, and ensure all appliances and amenities like showers and loos are in optimal condition. Attending to bigger, noisier works on things like plumbing, electrical systems, and structural elements will help to fortify not only the foundations of your space itself but your business too for the year ahead.

Enhancing Aesthetics: Indoors and out

Consider giving your spaces a fresh coat of paint in earthy tones, or upgrading key furnishings like blinds, blankets, kitchen utensils, cushions and bedding to create a fresh, warm and inviting atmosphere for the season ahead. Take a look at our owner benefits page for exclusive discounts to upgrade your space.

When it comes to outdoors, what plants and trees would transform the outdoor area come spring/summer and provide natural shade? How could you arrange your outdoor seating areas, what about a new fire pit or BBQ area? Could you establish some hidden walking trails or secluded picnic spots for guests to discover? It not only enhances the guest experience, but also positions your space as a haven for those growing number of guests seeking a genuine connection with the nature – a key factor when it comes to choosing where to stay.

Upgrading Amenities: Setting the Bar Higher

Winter provides an ideal window to assess your guest feedback from the past year and identify areas for improvement. Elevate the guest experience by upgrading amenities, such as adding a private hot tub, sauna or outdoor shower. Enhance your kitchen facilities, entertainment offerings, guest books, or perhaps improving your outdoor areas by building a covered area for guests to enjoy.

You can research and invest in innovative new features or create unique experiences that will make your space stand out. If you are interested in getting a full break down of guest feedback (good and bad!) from the last year to help spark some ideas, get in touch with your Account Manager.

Environmental Friendliness: A More Sustainable Approach

We know sustainability is valued very highly by guests who book with us, so owners can take the lead by continually looking for ways of making their spaces more eco-friendly.

Use this time to evaluate the energy efficiency of your spaces, consider switching to renewable energy providers or sources like solar panels or wind turbines, and invest in heat pumps and other energy-efficient lighting and appliances.

Implementing water-saving measures, such as low-flow faucets, rainwater harvesting systems and installing EV chargers can also contribute to a more sustainable operation. Not only does this appeal to environmentally conscious guests, but it also aligns with our commitment to reaching net zero by 2030 across our collection. Check out our Renewable Energy webinar series for some expert tips.

Small changes can make a big difference too and help demonstrate quality within a space. Providing eco-friendly washing up liquid and toiletries in refillable bottles and avoiding sachets and pods where possible for things like coffee and condiments all help to reduce your environmental impact.

Educational Initiatives: Connecting with Guests

Can you collaborate and build partnerships with local experts to conduct things like guided nature walks, conservation initiatives like tree planting, cookery classes, private yoga or stargazing sessions? Forge partnerships with local businesses and artisans. Can you collaborate with nearby farms for fresh produce for your welcome packs? Local artists for unique decor, or sustainable suppliers for eco-friendly amenities?

Guests are increasingly looking for experiences beyond the space itself, so it’s worth thinking about what sort of things you can draw upon from the local area. Many of our bookings are occasion stays, so perhaps there is a local florist or cake maker you can partner up with.

These collaborations not only support the local community but also add an authentic touch to the guest experience. Also, by fostering connections with local businesses, you contribute to a more sustainable and resilient community.

Listing Updates

As you undertake maintenance or carry out any major upgrades, make sure you let us know so we can update your listings and promote your space as accurately as possible for potential guests.

It’s no good building a new sauna or adding a hot tub if we don’t have pictures of it on the listing or to use in guest newsletters or on social media etc! Showcase the improvements and eco-friendly initiatives by booking in a new professional photo shoot in the spring/summer.

Get in touch with your Account Manager with any updates you need to make to your listing or if you’d like some recommendations on photographers.

For more tips on how to improve your spaces for the year ahead don’t hesitate to get in touch with your Account Manager (owners@canopyandstars.co.uk) or our Business Development Team (ideas@canopyandstars.co.uk) for some bespoke advice.