Rural Diversification
Rural Diversification: Explore How Holiday Lets Could Work For You
Farm diversification is a dynamic strategy for farmers looking to enhance their income streams. By venturing into holiday letting, you can unlock the hidden potential of your agricultural land and unused structures, creating unique holiday homes that offer guests an unforgettable Oxfordshire experience.
Many farms in Oxfordshire possess historic outbuildings that have remained unused for years. Instead of allowing these architectural treasures to languish, consider rejuvenating them into inviting holiday let accommodations. These lovingly restored spaces can not only preserve the region’s heritage but also provide a valuable source of additional income for your farm.
There are a few factors that need to be to considered before diversifying your farm for Holiday Lets:
- Balancing Agricultural Commitments: Running a holiday lets business alongside your agricultural responsibilities can be demanding. Consider the ongoing work involved in managing a holiday let and whether it’s feasible alongside your farm’s requirements.
- Assessing the Investment: Before proceeding, evaluate the cost of diversifying your farm compared to the potential income a holiday let could generate.
- Professional Guidance: Consult with experts in relevant fields to determine if holiday letting is the right path for you. Insurers can help identify potential risks and necessary coverage, while letting agents like us can assist in income projections and future options.
Planning Permission for Farm Diversification
If you plan to diversify your farm for holiday letting by introducing structures like yurts, shepherd’s huts, lodges, or log cabins, you will need planning permission to proceed. Even if you are converting or altering an existing building, planning permission is still necessary, and you may also need to apply for “a change of use.”
In essence, this implies that farmers considering embarking on building developments for holiday lets will primarily focus on either converting a barn, subdividing an existing farmhouse, or constructing a new and especially innovative dwelling. So please do your research and ensure you have all of the correct permissions in place before you begin to build or convert any buildings.
If you do need any help or any extra information regarding the planning permission process, we would suggest contacting an agricultural planning consultants, such as Acorus.
Choosing the Ideal Farm Diversified Holiday Let
Once you have researched and had the correct planning permission in place you will need to consider which style of holiday home you will be looking to create. There exists a wide array of holiday let options perfectly suited for development on farmland:
- Converted Buildings: Consider repurposing disused structures like old barns into delightful holiday accommodations. Barn conversions hold perennial appeal among holidaymakers seeking a traditional, snug cottage with charming original features such as exposed beams. Likewise, old stables and cowsheds can provide guests with a truly unique and captivating stay. Utilising existing buildings also entails less effort compared to constructing from scratch, as the foundations and basic structures are already in place.
- Shepherd’s Huts: Experience a surge in popularity owing to the distinctive self-catering experience they offer, Shepherd’s huts come in a variety of styles. Ranging from simple and traditional to more extravagant with vibrant colours and designs, these properties are an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway in an unconventional setting. Plus, they blend seamlessly with the rustic backdrop of farmland!
- Glamping Pods & Yurts: Similar to Shepherd’s huts, glamping pods provide a taste of the simple life, but with a touch of luxury. These quaint and cosy structures exude charm on the outside, while offering top-notch furnishings and amenities within. This type of property allows people to escape to the countryside without sacrificing any of the comforts of home.
- Cabins & Lodges: Wooden lodges present an affordable and straightforward option for launching your holiday letting venture. Always in demand among guests, these lodges often hold strong appeal for families seeking an outdoor-oriented holiday. If your farm boasts a woodland area, log cabins would seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings, creating a picturesque retreat.
Unlock the potential of your farmland by considering these diverse holiday let options. Each one offers a unique and memorable experience for your guests while maximising the income potential of your rural property.
Contact our new properties team on how we can help you to maximise your earning potential on 01993 222 200 or newowners@shortletspace.co.uk
