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Glamping pods are fast becoming a game-changer for UK adventure centres. Across the UK, outdoor centres are discovering that glamping pods aren't just a nice extra, they're a strategic upgrade. These compact accommodations are driving higher bookings, longer stays, and better reviews, all while attracting entirely new guest types.

In this blog, we spotlight three standout centres, from the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland to the Highlands of Scotland and the heart of the Peak District, showing how East Coast Adventure, Fairburn Activity Centre, and Mount Cook Adventure Centre have transformed their business models by adding glamping to the mix.

 

East Coast Adventure Centre, Northern Ireland

Blending rustic charm with outdoor adventure, East Coast Adventure Centre has redefined what it means to stay wild. Tucked away in the scenic Knockbarragh Valley, their glamping pods offer a cosy, cabin-in-the-woods experience, no tent pegs required. Guests use the pods as a launchpad for hiking, biking, and exploring the Mournes, with one family noting the pods were “much bigger than expected” and praising the communal kitchen, fire pits, and pet-friendly setup. (TripAdvisor)

There’s a laid-back, social vibe too, shared campfires, marshmallow roasting, and a communal pod with a wood-burning stove make evenings just as memorable as the adventures.

 

Centre Benefits & Revenue Growth

Adding six glamping pods (each sleeping four) has transformed East Coast from a day-trip destination into a full-scale adventure getaway. Combined with their existing 30-bed lodge, the site can now sleep up to 54 guests, opening the door to longer stays, multi-day packages, and group bookings.

This shift has not only increased average booking values but also broadened their appeal. The pods attract new audiences like pet owners (who can't stay in the lodge) and independent travellers journeying between Dublin and Belfast in search of something unique. Home Living Luxury's glamping pods can be used as a dining pod, catering pod, and entertainment pod, which are all great additions for adventure centres. 

 

Accommodation Style

• Family pods with platform beds (guests bring their own bedding)

• Two-person pods include proper beds with linens

• All pods are equipped with heating and electricity

• Each pod has a picnic table and a private fire pit

• Optional access to a wood-fired sauna and hot tub

• Low-maintenance, comfortable setup that keeps guests warm, dry, and connected

 

Glamping Pods at East Coast Adventure Centre. Image credits to East Coast Adventure Centre. 

 

Fairburn Activity Centre, Scottish Highlands

Nestled deep in the Highland woods, Fairburn’s glamping pods offer a peaceful, high-comfort escape. Set within an 80-acre estate, just two thoughtfully designed pods create an intimate retreat ideal for couples or friends looking to reconnect with nature, without sacrificing modern luxuries.

 

Centre Benefits & Market Expansion

These two pods have helped Fairburn expand beyond its traditional focus on school and educational groups. Now, it’s welcoming weekenders, couples travelling the North Coast 500 route, and pet owners seeking peaceful, high-quality accommodation.

By listing the pods on glamping-specific platforms and offering flexible, B&B-style bookings, Fairburn has increased visibility and direct reservations, especially during quieter seasons. The pods have smoothed out occupancy dips between term-time group bookings and off-season travel.

And there’s an added bonus: pod guests often book on-site experiences like archery or canoeing, boosting per-stay revenue. The positive guest feedback and a “100% recommend” rating on Facebook have only helped to strengthen the centre’s brand and broaden its reputation. (Fairburn Activity Centre)

 

Accommodation Style

• Plush bed with cosy interior finishes

• Tea and coffee station for added convenience

• Private BBQ area at each pod

• Modern en-suite with a hydromassage shower

• Surrounded by peaceful woodland with walking trails

• Dog-friendly access for pet-loving guests

• Tranquil, nature-immersed setting ideal for couples

 

Colored Glamping Pods at Fairburn Activity Centre. Image credits to Fairburn Activity Centre. 

 

Mount Cook Adventure Centre, Derbyshire

At Mount Cook, glamping pods bring comfort and convenience to action-packed stays. With ten timber-built pods nestled near the main centre, this Derbyshire hotspot offers a cosy alternative to traditional bunkhouses,  making it perfect for schools, youth groups, families, and outdoor adventurers who want the camping feel without the hassle.

Each pod sleeps four and includes heating, electricity, a private toilet and sink, and plenty of space to unwind. While showers are shared in the main centre, pod guests enjoy extra privacy, security, and the chance to stargaze or gather around the fire pit after a full day of activities. One review summed it up perfectly: “The pods were cosy and made the trip feel special”. (TripAdvisor)

 

Driving Group Capacity & Tourism Appeal

Adding ten pods allowed Mount Cook to boost its overnight capacity from 140 to 180 guests, a major win for large group bookings. But more than that, the pods introduced the flexibility to host individual travellers, families, and holiday guests outside term time.

They’re even listed on Airbnb to reach a broader audience, helping the centre maintain strong occupancy during peak tourist seasons. With the ability to serve multiple markets, from school trips and family getaways to corporate retreats, Mount Cook has carved out a strong position in the Peak District glamping scene.

 

Accommodation Style

• Timber-built, weatherproof design for all seasons

• Clustered in a dedicated pod village near the dining hall

• Real beds with linens, heating, and electricity

• Private toilet and sink in each pod

• Keycard entry for secure access

• Storage space for boots and outdoor gear

 

Interior of a glamping pod at Mount Cook Adventure Centre. Image credits to Mount Cook Adventure Centre. 

 

 

Conclusion

These case studies show that glamping pods aren’t just a bonus, they’re a smart investment for outdoor centres. Whether you're hosting school groups, weekend adventurers, or expanding your capacity, pods help boost revenue and guest satisfaction.

By offering onsite accommodation, you turn day visits into multi-day stays, attract new audiences like couples and families, and create a more flexible, resilient business. Guests love the comfort and atmosphere, and those memorable experiences lead to glowing reviews and repeat bookings. A few well-designed pods can turn your centre into a destination.

At Home Living Luxury, we help you make that transformation happen. From planning and design to custom builds and premium add-ons, we’re your one-stop glamping partner. We specialise in made-to-order pods that blend durability, style, and year-round performance, with full support every step of the way. If you're ready to grow your adventure centre into a destination that truly stands out, our team is here to guide you through it.

As UK travellers continue to crave nature-rich escapes with a luxurious twist, glamping is leading the way. With the right partner, your site can too.

 

Summary

• Glamping pods are helping UK adventure centres increase bookings, extend guest stays, and attract new customer types

• East Coast Adventure Centre in Northern Ireland added six glamping pods, growing capacity to 54 guests and enabling longer stays and group bookings

• Their pods attract pet owners and solo travellers who can't stay in the lodge, with strong guest reviews and communal features like fire pits and saunas

• Pods include platform beds, heating, electricity, and low-maintenance outdoor amenities, offering comfort and flexibility

• Fairburn Activity Centre in the Scottish Highlands uses two high-end pods to diversify beyond school groups and attract couples and tourists

• Pods at Fairburn offer plush beds, BBQ areas, hydromassage showers, and forest views, ideal for peaceful weekend escapes

• Fairburn's listings on glamping platforms drive bookings during quiet seasons, while on-site activities boost per-guest revenue

• Mount Cook Adventure Centre in Derbyshire added ten timber pods to increase total guest capacity from 140 to 180

• Pods at Mount Cook appeal to families, schools, and Airbnb travellers looking for comfort, privacy, and scenic outdoor stays

• Each Mount Cook pod features real beds, heating, electricity, a toilet and sink, and secure entry, helping attract a broader mix of guests

• Glamping pods allow centres to shift from day-only visits to profitable overnight stays with higher guest satisfaction and repeat bookings

• Centres benefit from added revenue streams, broader audiences, and stronger off-season resilience by offering flexible, year-round accommodation

• Home Living Luxury provides custom glamping pods built for adventure sites, combining durable design with premium finishes for guest comfort and long-term ROI

 

FAQs

1. Why are glamping pods a smart investment for UK adventure centres?

Glamping pods provide comfortable, weatherproof accommodation that extends guest stays and boosts per-visitor spend. For adventure centres, they transform a day-visit model into a multi-day experience, allowing for bundled packages, group bookings, and off-peak stays. Centres like Mount Cook and East Coast Adventure have seen clear gains in bookings and revenue since adding pods.

 

2. How do glamping pods increase bookings and revenue at outdoor activity centres?

By adding glamping pods, centres can host guests overnight, which opens up new income streams. This includes longer stays, family or solo travel, off-season tourism, and bookings on platforms like Airbnb or glamping directories. Fairburn Activity Centre, for example, now attracts couples and NC500 travellers outside of term-time, filling gaps in their calendar and increasing exposure.

 

3. Are glamping pods suitable for all seasons and weather conditions?

Yes, modern glamping pods are fully insulated and built with durable, weatherproof materials. Many include heating, electricity, and even en-suite bathrooms, making them comfortable year-round. This allows outdoor centres to stay open beyond summer and attract guests in spring, autumn, and even winter.

 

4. What types of guests do glamping pods attract to adventure centres?

Glamping pods broaden the target audience. While traditional centres cater mainly to school groups, pods attract couples, families, pet owners, solo adventurers, and wellness travellers. They also appeal to those seeking comfort after a day of hiking, biking, or water sports, without the hassle of camping.

 

5. How much space is needed to install glamping pods at an adventure centre?

Most pods have a compact footprint and can be installed on underused land areas, such as woodland clearings or near existing facilities. For example, Mount Cook's pod village is tucked alongside their main centre without requiring major landscaping. With removable foundations available, pods can also be added without permanent construction.

 

6. How can Home Living Luxury support outdoor centres looking to add glamping pods?

Home Living Luxury offers fully customisable glamping pods designed for durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance. We help adventure centres from concept to completion, including layout planning, bespoke features (like private fire pits or secure entry), and delivery. Our pods are built for high-traffic use and year-round performance, helping you turn your centre into a top-tier glamping destination.