How to Set Up a Glamping Site in 2025
If you're thinking about setting up a glamping site for the first time, it could feel like a daunting task with an endless list of things to do, with hoops to jump through, and maybe even a few barriers to market. That’s where we want to support you in your exciting venture by providing an easy step-by-step guide to support you in your journey with additional links to website so you can set up a certificated site license and gain financing options at the click of a button!
For more on why you should set up glamping site from profits to other benefits, check out our previous article here.
THC Homes Off Grid Cabins
Step 1: Understanding Certification vs. Planning Application
Why a Site License?
If you are fortunate to have a spot of land to create a glamping site, you may want to skip the full planning route by acquiring a certification for a site license. Gaining a site license over completing a planning application means you will save both time and money! Whilst there is a specific criteria regarding size, location, and use to enable a license, by contacting them directly (Certified Site License) you can gain the same permissions for your glamping pods which would cover basic health and safety regulations, ensuring that the site is safe for guests.
Requirements;
Minimum Size: Many councils specify a minimum area, often around 0.5 acres (approximately 0.2 hectares) or more, but this can differ widely.
Local Regulations: Always check with your local planning authority, as they will provide specific requirements regarding site size, density of units, and any other zoning rules.
Type of Site: The nature of your glamping site (e.g., luxury pods vs. basic camping) may also influence the minimum area needed.
How to Obtain Certification
Choose a Company to work with :
Two most common are The Camping and Caravanning Club / The Caravan and Mortorhome Club
Identify glamping or camping sites in your area as this will showcase that your area benefits from leisure and tourism.
Prepare Documentation:
You may be asked to provide site plans or even to join someone on site plus proof of utilities for glamping.
Submit Application:
Complete the necessary forms and pay any associated fees.
The process can take several weeks to a few months which is much quicker than a planning application that could take up to 6 months!
Step 2: Costs and Timeframes
The costs associated with setting up a glamping site can vary widely based on location, size, and amenities. Here are some estimated expenses to consider:
Site License Fees: £500 - £1,000
Utility Connections: £1,000 - £5,000 (for water and wastewater)
Foundations for Pods: £500-£5,000 per cabin depending on what method you choose (groundscrews, concrete slabs, timber framed base)
Glamping Pods/Cabins: £40,000 - £60,000 each (price is dependent on longevity of your cabin and its seasonality)
Timeframes
Certification Process: 4-8 weeks
Foundations: 1-2 weeks
Utilities: 1-2 weeks
Construction: 12-15 weeks (depending on the number of units and complexity)
Step 3: Foundations and Utilities
Foundations for Glamping Pods
Once you have secured your site license, the exciting part takes place, you get to pick your design and begin preparing for your site! Foundations are crucial to ensure that your cabins will remain secure on site and come in array of styles to suit different types of leisure buildings.
Concrete Slabs: Durable and low-maintenance for all buildings.
Groundscrews: Eco Friendly Option, more expensive but are kinder to the environment.
Utilities
While our sustainably designed cabins can run100% off the grid, not all cabins are created equal! Some will require an electrical connection which can be quite costly depending on how far away the cabins will be from the main supply. If you are choosing off the grid cabins, your cabin would come fully prepared with its solar powered system and batteries. For all cabins, water access and waste management would be required.
Water Supply: A food grade hose can be connected to your water supply and fitted with an inlet to connect to the cabin.
Wastewater Management: A soakaway system is useful for those far away from a wastewater pipe. This will handle wastewater effectively and requires minimal management.
Step 4: Choosing a Model and Financing
Selecting the Right Model
Your choice of glamping pod or cabin will affect guest experience and profitability. Consider:
Seasonal vs. Year-Round Use: Some models are designed for summer use only, while others are suitable for year-round occupancy.
Features That Increase Occupancy: Saunas, outdoor kitchens, firepits and more can increase your revenue!
Running Costs: Consider the effiicency of the building as electricity isn’t getting any cheaper!
Financing Options
Asset Finance: This allows you to purchase glamping units based on future profits.
Business Loans: Traditional loans can provide upfront capital but may require collateral.
Step 5: Managing the Site
So, you have the license, have prepared the site, only now you realise you have no time to manage your site….no problem! It is very common and effective to handover the management to a third party company who market the cabin and manage it all year round without you lifting a finger!
Here are some third party companies that can suppport you in your journey. Bear in mind that some of these sites will only take on niche or upmarket stays to promote a premium guest stay!
Cleaning and Maintenance
Do you have time to clean? Do you want to clean? Would you be willing to trade time for money by considering a cleaning service for your site? Deciding on who is cleaning, how much you wish to spend on cleaning is a big consideration since it will take place weekly and eat into your profits should you choose the wrong cleaning service that doesn’t get the job done! We always reccommend checking reviews on a service before commiting to them.
Step 6: Understanding Profit Potential
Pricing your glamping units correctly can significantly influence your profitability. Different areas will be priced differently. On top of increased value additions such as hot tubs, outdoor baths which can increase the nightly stay by up to 50%!!
For some rough numbers, here are some general ideas of what to expect during peak and off peak times!
Peak Summer Rates: £180 - £300 per night for cabins.
Off-Peak Rates: £120-£150 per night in winter for year-round models.
Is that easy enough?
Setting up a glamping site can be a rewarding and profitable venture!! If approved, which we’re sure you will, could be a gateway to gaining additional income on your site!!
We hope this article gave you understanding of the certification requirements, managing costs, and implementing effective operational strategies, so that you can create a successful glamping business that attracts guests year-round. For more info, speak to one of our experts to uncover more leisure insights. Simply fill out a form and ask any questions that you may have!
Good luck in your venture!
