Today’s interview is with Ruth from Crakes Tree Manor.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourselves?

I am in my 50’s and I am from Crosby Ravensworth in Penrith, Cumbria.

Have you always wanted to run a glamping site? How did you get interested in it?

We have done B & B for 30 years. 10 years at the centre of the farm in a wonderful very modern barn conversion. We saw a shepherds hut at a building exhibition in London went to stay in one and made some swift decisions as to what direction we wanted to develop the shepherd’s huts as an add-on to the B & B. This was 2008.

It took us over a year to design and make the hut and it went into position down by the pond in summer of 2009. We are farmers and builders etc. etc. so things often take a while!

What made you pick the location for your glamping site?

We live here. I have lived on this farm for 57 years; it is the most beautiful place on earth.

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 get very young couples (college/uni age) and also 50’s plus, but not quite so many mid age couples. A few gay couples and of course loads of honeymooners. Also a few lonesome folk who always feel safe on their own in our environment

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?

We have a list of recommended pubs etc. with my opinions to suit different tastes and budget. We own (as shareholders) our village pub which is a great pub and a lovely 15 minute walk down the fields. We don’t encourage BBQ, but occasionally someone requests permission.

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?

Everyone walks or cycles to explore the local area. We have laminated walks that start from the farm and I spend time with guests to find their interests and offer suggestions for places to visit.

Acorn Bank Nat Trust gardens I always think is relaxing and a bit different at any time of year

What do you think sets your glamping site apart from others?

What do guests like to do while on site?

They just go…Ohhhh isn’t this wonderful. They light the stove, have a brew or a beer and enjoy the view, the call of the curlew and the total peace.

What should guests expect from their stay at your site?

To go home feeling a bit rejuvenated and well looked after

What has been the most memorable moment that has happened on your glamping site?

Wedding proposals?

Couple who didn’t stay on their first night as the new husband did not realise his bride hated a tiny spider and animals in general! Also many proposals.

Funny stories you can share?

Four in a Bed- We were on this infamous program and increased the ratings during the week we were competing from usual 4 million to about 10 million views

Do you provide any services/entertainment/activities onsite or elsewhere for your guests?

All guests have breakfast in the farmhouse.

What plans (if any) do you have for your glamping site in the future?

Do you have any plans to expand/add more tents/accommodation?

Probably, and we keep debating how to change to self-catering and if it indeed would be the right move.

I believe we are almost the only folks with a shepherds hut (or similar) that includes breakfast in the house (not taken to the hut) as part of the price.