A Lincolnshire glamping and camping site has been recognized for its unique accommodations and commitment to quality, earning the title of Camping, Glamping, and Holiday Park of the Year at the Tourism Excellence Awards for Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland.
Ashleigh Farm, located in Willingham by Stow near Gainsborough, offers a mix of traditional camping pitches, bell tents, and distinctive “witch huts,” which have helped set the site apart in a competitive market.
The witch huts, named Willow and Juniper, were introduced to the site three years ago as a way to attract visitors to an area not typically known as a tourist hotspot.
“We just thought that where we are is not a massive touristy area, and we needed something to entice people and we found them and they are amazing,” said Caroline Leak, the site’s owner.
The structures were built on-site by Timber Team UK and have proven to be a standout feature for the business, according to a report by Nottingham Post.
Leak opened the site in August 2019, just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since then, Ashleigh Farm has grown into a multi-faceted operation, blending traditional camping with upscale glamping. The farm now offers two witch huts, two bell tents, and eight camping pitches.
“We work very hard to make every stay individual and special,” Leak said. The site’s attention to cleanliness, hospitality, and customer experience were key factors in its recent award recognition.
Beyond accommodation, Ashleigh Farm has added value to the guest experience through personalized offerings.
Visitors staying in glamping accommodations receive welcome hampers, while those interested can order freshly baked goods made by Leak herself.
Due to the popularity of her baking, she has expanded her offerings to include afternoon tea for both guests and local residents, as well as bread-making lessons. “The business is gradually growing,” she said.
For glamping and camping operators, Ashleigh Farm’s success highlights the potential of blending unique accommodations with high-touch customer service.
As the outdoor hospitality industry continues to evolve, properties that invest in creative lodging options and guest-centric experiences may gain a competitive edge, even in less traditional tourist destinations.
