Cornwall’s (England) Lydcott Glamping was recently hailed the Glamping Business of the Year at the Cornwall Tourism Awards. As shiny as the “gold” title is, the business sprouted from humble beginnings—and owners Richard and Emma Liddle make sure not to forget that.
Set on a lovely piece of land, what was a humble farmhouse in the quaint village of Widegates, Cornwall is now an award-winning glamping business.
Even after the developments, the glampground remains to emanate a warm hospitality feel that makes campers keep coming back.
“We moved here in 2015 and we basically bought a farmhouse with no electricity, no hot water, no heating, and about an acre and a half field around it that were stocks and brambles above your head—like completely overgrown,” Emma told Modern Campground in an interview.
Back then, her husband Rich was working full-time, designing kids’ clubs around the world for five-star hotels and resorts. Meanwhile, Emma was a marketing consultant doing freelance consultancy.
Years later, the couple decided to venture into the luxury camping business and opened Lydcott Glamping in February 2019 with only two cabins.
Admittedly, the venture was only so the couple could have an additional source of income, but things took a turn for the better. The pandemic struck and so Rich had to stay at home. This gave the family time to focus on their long-term goal, prompting them to expand their business.
Fast forward to 2022, Lydcott Glamping now offers seven luxury cabins. The property is also now a popular destination, with influencers booking their stays.
“It’s been really cool. So it seems like we kind of got ourselves on the map now,” Emma said.
Truly unique in design, the structures were handcrafted from spruce shingles in a forest in Estonia. Outside each is a picnic table where families can share a meal while taking in the beautiful view of the greenery all around them.
Inside, each cabin is furnished with a comfortable bed and a sofa. There is also an ensuite bathroom as well as a kitchen with utensils and plates provided.
Beyond the one-of-a-kind cabins, Emma credits their dedication to customer service and attention to detail for the business’ success.
“So we care so much that everything is absolutely perfect for guests, and we’re always trying to think of what’s next as well,” Emma told Modern Campground.
Having dedicated staff who are passionate about what they do is also another important aspect of running a glamping business, she said.
Versus just providing accommodations, Lydcott Glamping delivers hospitality through small gestures that guests can appreciate.
Being a camping family with dogs, the Liddles make sure to apply to their business the things that have made them happy or the opposite during one of their trips. Lydcott Glamping makes sure to let every guest have a wonderful experience—from the adults to the children to fur friends. This can be as simple as offering kids’ cutlery instead of metal ones for guests with toddlers, said Emma.
Dogs also have a place at Lydcott Glamping. When campers bring their dogs, the owners put out some treats and dog towels.
“So we kind of try and treat the dogs and the kids as VIPs as much as the adults,” Emma shared.
Moreover, creating a welcoming environment for guests helps keep them coming back.
“We love it here so much. We are so lucky to live where we are; and being able to share that with people, it’s like having guests in our own home,” Emma expressed.
In talks of expanding their glamping business in the future, the owners said that they are looking into accommodating weddings at the glampground. They are also looking into building a small on-site shop, a community hub, and offering a weekend event for dog owners and their four-legged friends.
Asked for a message to aspiring glamping business owners, the Liddles said that planning is important, but so is believing.
“If you believe in what you’re doing enough, you can’t fail. Have a vision, go for it,” said Emma.
Visit https://lydcottglampingcornwall.co.uk/ to learn more about Lydcott Glamping.
Featured image courtesy of Lydcott Glamping.
I’m astounded by Lydcott Glamping being named Cornwall’s Glamping Business of the Year. The dedication to customer service, meticulous attention to detail, and enthusiastic staff really shine through. The seven opulent cabins, handcrafted with unique designs, reflect Emma and Rich’s commitment to excellence. I’d love to learn more about the remarkable features, amenities, and eco-friendly touches that set them apart and the new standard they’ve set for glamping experiences in Cornwall.