Broad Oak Farm in Tattenhall has diversified its farmland to create a new glamping experience in the heart of Cheshire.
Co-owner and managing director Suzanne Miller set up Pitch & Canvas with business support from SME advisors based at Reaseheath College.
Suzanne, who runs the farm with her husband Drew, said the new venture offers spacious pods, classic bell tents and tent pitches in a paddock area with views of nearby Sandstone Ridge.
Guests will also have the option of seeing how a working dairy farm is run.
Suzanne 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.”
While developing Pitch & Canvas, Suzanne attended business and marketing masterclasses offered by Reaseheath College’s European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)-funded SME Business Growth Programme.
Suzanne added: "As a business owner, it’s wonderful to be able to adapt our current business and expand it, whilst remaining loyal to the integrity of the farm.
"The support I have had from Reaseheath has been fantastic and without them, I would have had no idea how to turn our idea into a proper business.”
Reaseheath ERDF business advisor Janet Nuzum commented: "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.”
Janet continued: "We hope to work with more businesses who share Suzanne’s forward-thinking approach over the course of our programme.”
Read more at bdaily.co.uk