Read Time: 4 mins
When you think of a cosy getaway in the Brecon Beacons, it’s easy to picture rugged hills, crisp mountain air, and the warmth of a roaring fire after a long day’s walk.
That’s exactly the kind of experience Nick and Amy wanted to create at The Crown at Pantygelli, a traditional country pub just outside Abergavenny, tucked away in woodland beneath the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain.
For years, the pub was a favourite stop for walkers seeking a pint and a hearty Sunday roast. But Nick and Amy wanted guests to stay longer, immerse themselves in the surroundings, and truly unwind.
Their solution? Luxury glamping pods that combine the beauty of the outdoors with all the comforts of home.
From Overgrown Nettles to Nature’s Hideaway
The land behind the pub was a far cry from guest-ready. Thick tangles of nettles and brambles choked the space, and the boundaries were barely visible. At first, the idea of fitting each pod into a modest 5 × 5 metre footprint seemed ambitious.
But once the ground was cleared, a natural woodland amphitheatre emerged, close enough to the pub for guests to wander in for dinner, yet tucked away enough to feel like a true escape.
Funding for the project came from the profits of a recent pub extension, but the location brought its own challenges. Sitting within The Brecon Beacons National Park meant navigating eight months of planning applications, ecological surveys, and patient waiting before the first spade could hit the ground.
Finding the Perfect Pod
While exploring pod suppliers, Nick and Amy came across GlampLaunch, and quickly realised our team’s flexibility and willingness to listen set us apart. They had a clear vision: The “Dual Halfmoon” pod, formed from two curved units joined to create one spacious woodland retreat, complete with a kitchen, lounge, and bedroom.
Their wish list was simple but specific:
• Dog-friendly accommodation
• A full kitchenette for proper cooking
• A shower room and a comfortable double bed
• Premium bedding and cosy heating for winter stays
We brought their vision to life with a fully bespoke "Dual Halfmoon", crafted specifically for The Crown at Pantygelli.
Delivered pre-assembled in two halves, the pod arrived ready to welcome guests, complete with a charming porch and built-in bench storage, a well-equipped kitchen, a modern bathroom, a wood-burning stove, and thoughtful storage solutions throughout.
The Roller-Coaster Installation
Tight site access meant the original lorry couldn’t get through. The solution? Laying a temporary road with 48 tonnes of stone for the crane and delivery truck. The pods were lifted over trees in a heart-stopping but unforgettable moment.
Early hiccups included upgrading undersized hot water heaters and rescheduling a courier. GlampLaunch responded quickly, smoothing out the challenges.
Once installed, the pods blended beautifully into the woodland with natural wood finishes and earthy interior tones.
Book a Stay at The Crown at Pantygelli →
Tips from Nick for New Owners
• Allow extra time for planning in protected areas: Be prepared to provide detailed ecology reports and practise patience during the process.
• Plan logistics early: Check access for delivery vehicles and cranes well in advance, and prepare the ground if necessary.
• Prioritise the guest experience: Quality bedding, ambient lighting, and thoughtful extras make a big difference to reviews and repeat bookings.
• Highlight your unique offer: For The Crown at Pantygelli, it’s all about “a pint, a plate, and a peaceful night’s sleep.”
• Be realistic about costs: While the pods are expected to pay for themselves within 12–18 months, remember to budget for hidden expenses such as insurance, landscaping, and maintenance.
• Do the numbers: Use GlampLaunch's Glamping Pod ROI Calculator to forecast earnings and plan for the best return on investment.
Why GlampLaunch?
GlampLaunch’s flexible design options, premium materials, and responsive support were key to transforming The Crown at Pantygelli’s woodland into a thriving retreat. The "Dual Halfmoon" pod provided space, comfort, and simple installation, all without compromising on style.
GlampLaunch supports projects of every scale, from full-size glamping sites to single off-grid hideaways, with expert guidance from planning through to installation. Each pod can be customised to suit your location, guest profile, and design vision, ensuring a perfect fit for your business.
Inspired?
Turn unused land into a profitable, sustainable retreat. With GlampLaunch, you can offer guests the perfect blend of nature’s beauty and luxury accommodation.
Schedule an appointment below the FAQs, and let’s start bringing your vision to life.
Summary
• The Crown at Pantygelli, a country pub in the Brecon Beacons, expanded into luxury glamping to let guests stay longer and enjoy the surroundings.
• An overgrown woodland behind the pub was transformed into a secluded retreat after eight months of planning and ecological approvals.
• Nick and Amy chose a bespoke GlampLaunch “Dual Halfmoon” pod with dog-friendly features, a full kitchen, modern bathroom, wood-burning stove, and premium finishes.
• Installation challenges, including tight site access, were overcome by building a temporary road and using a crane to lift the pods over trees.
• Early issues like undersized heaters were quickly resolved by GlampLaunch, and the pods blended naturally into the woodland setting.
• Key tips from the owners: allow extra time for planning, prepare site logistics early, focus on guest comfort, highlight your unique offer, and budget for hidden costs.
• GlampLaunch’s flexible design, premium materials, and hands-on support were crucial to the project’s success.
FAQs
1. What type of glamping pod was installed at The Crown at Pantygelli?
They chose a bespoke “Dual Halfmoon” pod, crafted from two curved units joined together.
It features a full kitchenette, lounge, bedroom, modern bathroom, wood-burning stove, and built-in storage, designed to provide a cosy, dog-friendly woodland retreat.
2. How long did planning and preparation take?
Because the site is in The Brecon Beacons National Park, it required eight months of planning applications and ecological surveys before construction could begin. Protected areas often involve extended timelines, so patience is essential.
3. Were there any installation challenges?
Yes. Tight site access meant the original delivery lorry couldn’t reach the location, so a temporary road made from 48 tonnes of stone was laid.
The pods were lifted over trees by crane, a logistically complex but successful operation.
4. How quickly can a glamping pod pay for itself?
For The Crown at Pantygelli, the pods are expected to achieve full ROI within 12–18 months, depending on occupancy and rates.
Using GlampLaunch's Glamping Pod ROI Calculator can help forecast earnings and plan for profitability.
