Data from Pitchup.com suggests the ‘staycation boom’ shows no signs of slowing down, with bookings up 104% compared to previous years.
This surge in outdoor holidays is driven by multiple factors: increased awareness of mental well-being and a desire for sustainable travel options have led more people to choose nature-based vacations.
With living costs rising, more families in the UK are choosing camping and caravanning as affordable holiday options.
The trend is most apparent in the growing demand for sites with electric and water hook-ups, as well as those with basic amenities, as modern campers seek a balance between outdoor experience and essential comforts.
There are about 15.7 million domestic caravanning trips in the UK, making this a great opportunity for farmers to add new income streams.
This long-term growth in the camping sector suggests a long-term shift in holiday preferences rather than just a temporary trend. Farmers who invest in facilities for caravans and motorhomes can grab a slice of this growing market.
If you are interested in increasing profits, Evangate FS specialise in working with farmers to secure funding for farm diversification projects.
Farm Caravan Site Potential Earnings
Agricultural diversification through caravan sites gives farmers the opportunity to maximise their land’s potential. For farmers with suitable land, setting up a caravan/motorhome site can generate an additional income stream while continuing with existing farming operations.
Farm camping sites on Pitchup.com report average yearly earnings of £13,000, but some earn much more. For example, one working farm in Cumbria made over £124,000 in bookings in a single year!
The initial investment can be relatively small, especially for basic camping facilities, with many farmers starting with simple amenities and expanding as their business grows. However, if you want to maximise your potential earnings, speak with the team at Evangate FS, as we have experience in helping other farmers diversify into camping sites.
What makes this diversification idea even more appealing is the flexibility. Farmers can start small, using the 28-day permitted development rights, to test the waters without major investment or permanent changes to their land.
And some farmers have found additional revenue streams by offering supplementary services such as farm shops, cooking workshops, and seasonal activities, creating a wider-ranging agri-tourism experience. This multi-approach not only increases potential income but also helps to spread risk across several business areas, providing greater financial stability for farmers.
Setting Up A Campsite
Creating a successful caravan and motorhome site on your farm requires planning and investment in key infrastructure. Here’s a quick breakdown of what is required:
Utilities
Electrical connections are fundamental for modern campsites, with ‘hook-up points’ being a key requirement for most caravan and motorhome owners. Each pitch should have access to a reliable electrical supply, commonly supplying 16-amp connections to cater for modern vehicles’ power requirements.
Professional installation by qualified electricians is essential to safeguard safety and regulatory compliance.
If your site also offers internet access (Wi-Fi, etc.) or TV/coaxial connections, you will stand out from those who don’t.
Water and Sanitation
A clean water supply system with numerous drinking water access points located across the site. Effective drainage solutions must be installed to handle wastewater and prevent flooding on the site.
Chemical disposal points for caravan toilets are also essential, along with proper connection to sewage systems or septic tanks.
Ground Preparation
The site needs to be properly levelled and prepared with appropriate hardstanding areas for vehicles. This might include:
- All-weather surfaces for access roads
- Reinforced pitch areas to prevent sinking
- Adequate drainage to prevent flooding
- Clear pitch markings and boundaries
Security Infrastructure
Site security is key to attracting and retaining customers. This should include:
- Secure gated entrance with access control systems
- Adequate lighting throughout the site
- CCTV coverage of key areas
- Clear boundary fencing or hedging
- Emergency contact systems
Amenity Buildings
Not all farm sites need lots of facilities, since caravans and motorhomes have their own. But if you offer extra amenities, you’re more likely to get repeat customers:
- Toilet blocks with shower facilities
- Washing up areas for dishes
- Laundry facilities
- Reception/information point
- Waste disposal and recycling areas
Access Infrastructure
Easy access is important for large vehicles, so make sure you can provide:
- Wide, well-maintained entrance ways
- Visible signposting from main roads
- Turning circles suitable for large vehicles
- Car parking for visitors
- Emergency vehicle access routes
Evangate FS can work with farmers to raise funds to create a functional and attractive site that meets the needs of caravan owners while complying with all necessary local authority regulations and health and safety requirements.
Legal Requirements & Planning Permission
It is recommended that you speak with your local planning authority to understand the particular requirements and restrictions that may apply to your farm, as policies differ between England & Wales and Scotland.
In general, the legal requirements and permissions for establishing a caravan site on farmland involve several regulatory frameworks, including:
The 28-Day Rule
Farmers can operate a “temporary tent campsite” for up to 28 days per year without requiring formal planning permission. This gives them the chance to test the site’s viability before making larger commitments.
However, it’s important to note that this rule applies only to tent camping; different regulations apply to caravans and motorhomes.
Planning Permission
For sites operating for more than 28 days or accommodating caravans and motorhomes, full planning permission is typically required. The application process costs £462* for a change of use to a campsite in England and usually takes around 8-weeks from registration.
It must be said that local authorities generally support farm diversification applications, particularly those promoting tourism, though each case is assessed on its merits.
Site Licensing
Under the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960, a site license is required for the hosting of caravans. This license makes certain that the site meets health, safety, and environmental standards.
The license may specify conditions about:
- Maximum number of pitches
- Spacing between units
- Fire safety requirements
- Sanitary facilities
- Waste disposal arrangements
Insurance Requirements
Farmers must extend their existing insurance or obtain new coverage specifically for change of use from agriculture to include a campsite operation, including:
- Public liability insurance
- Employer’s liability insurance (if employing staff)
- Buildings and contents insurance for any facilities
- Business interruption coverage
Additional Compliance
Other compliance issues include:
- Health and safety risk assessments
- Fire safety regulations
- Food safety certificates (if providing food services)
- Data protection compliance for handling customer information
- Accessibility requirements
- Environmental regulations
* Please check the costs with your local authority.
Promoting Your Farm Caravan & Motorhome Site
Now that you have decided to diversify your farm beyond pure agriculture, how do you promote your new services and facilities to attract people on-site?
Online Booking Platforms
Success stories from sites like Pitchup.com demonstrate the importance of utilising established booking portals. These platforms supply immediate access to millions of potential customers and handle much of the booking administration, making a budget-friendly marketing channel.
Registering with these other sites can also help:
Digital Presence
Having a good online presence on Google is essential in today’s market. Farmers should consider:
- Creating a professional website to showcase the site’s facilities and unique features
- Keeping active social media profiles to reach out to potential guests
- Encouraging and managing online reviews
- Using high-quality photographs of the site and the surrounding area
Your website should also be updated throughout the year to promote special events or activities throughout high season, offer seasonal discounts and showcase themed stays around farming activities (harvest time, lambing season, etc.).
Local Partnerships
Building relationships with local businesses and tourism organisations can help attract visitors:
- Partnering with local attractions and activity providers
- Joining regional tourism associations
- Teaming up with local food producers and craft makers
- Working with nearby pubs and restaurants
Unique Selling Points
Highlight what makes your site unique:
- Farm location and rural experience
- Access to walking routes or natural attractions
- Educational opportunities about farming
- Fresh farm produce availability
- Peace and tranquillity of the countryside setting
First Class Customer Service
Great customer service brings positive reviews and repeat bookings:
- Reply quickly to inquiries
- Provide clear booking information
- Keep consistent contact with guests
- Follow up after stays to gather customer feedback
- Build a database of returning customers, possibly provide “loyalty” discounts
Word-of-mouth from happy guests is one of the best marketing tools. Always aim for high quality and encourage reviews from satisfied campers as part of your marketing strategy.
We always recommend that farmers invest in their website and marketing, as this is often the main way to attract caravan owners to a new farm business. If you need help raising funds for a website or marketing, we can help with that too!
Next Step
Is your farm land working as hard as it could be? Start the process of diversification by:
- Assess your land’s suitability for a caravan and motorhome site
- Contact your local planning authority to understand any specific requirements
- Use online tools from established booking portals to calculate possible earnings
- Speak with the Evangate FS team to understand what finance options are available
Don’t let unused land go to waste. Join the many farmers who are successfully diversifying into camping and caravanning.
With domestic tourism flourishing and staycations becoming increasingly popular, the timing couldn’t be better. Data shows impressive growth in the sector, with some farm sites generating annual revenues exceeding £100,000.
The staycation boom is still going strong, so now is the perfect time to explore this opportunity.
