Cheshire glamping getaway set to open this summer
A Tattenhall farmer has launched a new venture aimed at providing high end glamping and camping experiences in the heart of the Cheshire countryside.
Suzanne Miller, along with her husband, Drew, runs Broad Oak Farm on the Bolesworth Estate, and has recently set up Pitch & Canvas to offer spacious pods, classic bell tents, and tent pitches all in a tranquil paddock with views of Sandstone Ridge.
Suzanne, who originally created Pitch & Canvas to diversify Broad Oak Farm and bring their dairy trade into the modern world, said: “Glamping has seen a real surge in popularity over the past few years, with people wanting to make the most of the great British countryside, whilst still enjoying the luxury that comes with a standard holiday.
“Broad Oak offers the perfect opportunity to marry nature and business together, and create a unique offering which not only supports the growth of the farm but opens us up to a completely new market and audience.”
When developing her proposition for the farm, Suzanne attended business and marketing masterclasses run by Reaseheath College’s European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) funded SME Business Growth Programme.
Janet Nuzum, ERDF business advisor at Reaseheath, added: “Suzanne has been wonderful to work alongside as part of the SME growth programme. Her enthusiasm, vision and work-ethic are second to none and they have wonderful future plans for Pitch & Canvas.
“Farming is an incredibly competitive industry, which is facing a host of challenges and external pressures; so, it’s extremely encouraging to see farmers taking initiative and diversifying their offering to capitalise on developing economic opportunities.”
As part of its exclusive glamping experience, Pitch & Canvas will also offer guests the opportunity to see part of the working farm; from watching the cows being milked, through to baby calves being fed.
Suzanne said: “Broad Oak Farm will remain a fully functioning dairy farm,” added Suzanne. “So, as a unique experience, we will have the opportunity to allow our guests and visitors to see some of the daily duties that come with running a dairy farm. The can observe milking time in the parlour and if they are lucky enough may even get to see a new calf being born.
“If you’d rather not get involved with the farm though, our beautiful location offers peace and tranquility and also easy access to popular north west tourist attractions. There’s the popular Ice Cream Farm a short walk by public footpath or Cheshire Candle Factory and Chester Zoo are easily reached by car. Guests can also have lazy summer days and relaxing evenings round the fire pit toasting marshmallows through to stargazing with no artificial light.
“We’re already seeing strong interest come through, as we look to support popular leisure events, including Car Fest, Classic Ibiza, and The Great British Proms. Hopefully it will prove to be a successful first summer in business for us.”
Pitch & Canvas is also working with outdoor education company Get Outside the Classroom to provide accommodation to schools and colleges for various activities such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and residential courses. Bookings will be taken throughout July, with the site opening on August 1, 2017.
