Today’s interview is with Carole from Abbot Park Farm
Can you tell us a little bit about yourselves?
My name is Carole and I’m a farmer from South Cumbria. I live at Abbot Park Farm where the past generations of my family have also lived.
Have you always wanted to run a glamping site? How did you get interested in it?
As part of our farm diversification we decided to open our luxury camping barns so other people can enjoy the beautiful surroundings in which we live. We also run a small campsite so decided to branch out so we could offer a service all year round.
What made you pick the location for your glamping site?
It is our home!
Do you get a wide range of different people from different walks of life or are there certain types of guests who come to stay at your site?
We have attracted customers from all over the world, ranging from groups of mountain bikers to volunteers, couples and families.
When guests stay, do they usually cook on site or do you find a lot like to go exploring and eat out at local places?
Our barns both have cooking facilities, including our wood burning stoves, microwaves, kettles toasters etc. We also have an onsite tearoom which serves delicious, traditional breakfasts, lunches and evening meals either to eat in our as a takeaway to the barns. Thank you for visiting. Before we carry on I need to say thanks to for their continued assistance and the support of their regional community. Having a help and support team like this means a lot to us as we continue to grow our personal blog.
Locally we have a range of pubs serving good home cooked food and nearby in Ulverston there is food of all varieties from chip shops and takeaways to Mexican, Italian, Indian and Chinese cuisines.
If there was one activity to participate in, landmark, or place of interest that you would recommend guests visit while staying at your site, what would it be and why?
We often recommend places of interest for our customers depending on their interests and circumstances. We are so lucky to be situated in the heart of the Lake District with everything on our doorstep.
What do you think sets your glamping site apart from others?
Our camping barns are ideally situated just 3 miles from Grizedale Forest, 3 miles from Coniston Lake and a short drive from the motorway. We are an ideal location for people who love the outdoors for walking and mountain biking.
What has been the most memorable moment that has happened on your glamping site?
We have had it all! Wedding proposals, honeymoons, stag parties, charity events and pamper parties. One evening our camping barn was transformed into a beauty room and we invited local people and visitors to join us! We have met some really interesting people from all walks of life.
Do you provide any services/entertainment/activities onsite or elsewhere for your guests?
A tearoom, suggested walks and charity coffee mornings.
What plans (if any) do you have for your glamping site in the future?
Being a small family run business we are happy with our site as it is. We are looking forward to meeting more people and listening to their stories and experiences.
