The rise of glamping in the UK: Why Pods are redefining staycations

Glamping, short for “glamorous camping”, has exploded in the UK. What began as a niche for festivalgoers has turned into a full-blown trend.

According to Pitchup.com, glamping bookings in the UK increased by over 50% between 2020 and 2023. 

Rising costs of overseas travel and a renewed love for local escapes have driven more Brits to explore countryside getaways.

But the real star of this movement? The humble glamping pod.

Why pods are the new favourite

Pods are changing the way people see camping. No more soggy tents or sleeping bags.

These purpose-built structures offer real beds, heating, insulation, and electricity, often in compact, beautifully designed spaces.

They appeal to:

Pods also eliminate the need for complex setup or weather dependency. Rain or shine, the stay goes on.

Staycations made simple

Pods make local holidays more accessible. You can drive to a rural site on a Friday and be sipping wine under the stars by evening.

No airports. No luggage limits. No queues.

Staycations have become a practical choice for many households. With inflation and unpredictable global travel, pods offer reliable comfort close to home.

A win for site owners too

If you’re in the hospitality or land-owning space, pods make sense financially. They’re durable, energy-efficient, and often don’t require full planning permission (depending on use and size).

You can run a pod site year-round, which means more consistent bookings compared to seasonal tents. Maintenance is lower, and customer satisfaction is typically higher.

Why Pods feel so good

Pods deliver a rare mix: nature and comfort. You can wake up to bird sounds and rolling hills, without sacrificing a mattress, Wi-Fi, or heating. They let you reconnect with the outdoors while keeping the conveniences that matter.

This balance is what modern travellers want. It’s camping without compromise.

Thinking of a pod stay?

Whether you’re curious about glamping for the first time or looking to upgrade your outdoor holidays, pods offer a smart, stylish solution.

If you’re a site owner thinking about adding pods to your land, the demand is there and growing.

What kind of Pod is best for Glamping?

If you’re considering glamping pods for your land or business, look for models that are compact, weatherproof, low-maintenance and built with enough comfort and insulation to be used year-round.

At Hully Pods, our Skipjack and Schooner Pods are ideal for glamping setups. Both offer long-lasting durability, efficient insulation, and stylish, guest-ready interiors, and they remain one of the most affordable pod solutions of their specification anywhere in the UK.

Whether you’re building a small glamping retreat or a full site, they deliver high-end quality without the high-end price tag.

Skipjack Pod (medium-sized glamping Pod)

• External dimensions: 2.4 x 2.3 x 3.0
• Compact and cosy – perfect for couples or solo retreats
• Can comfortably fit a double bed and essentials
• Comes fully assembled – ready to plug and play 
• There’s also an option for a glass-fronted Pod, which lets you enjoy a full panoramic view of your surroundings. This Pod option instantly offers a truly luxurious space customisable to suit your style.
• A range of different window options for the back of the Pod (50×50, 50×100, 100×100)
• Choose from seven different colours, or if you’d like a colour that’s bespoke to you, you can pay extra to have the exact colour you want
• All our floors are top-quality vinyl that is practical, hard-wearing and easy to clean.
• Your Hully Pod comes with a 16A hookup connector and 1 twin 13A mains socket as standard.
• You can add a Mains Pack, which gives you an extra socket, a light and switch, the choice of hookup side and access to other options. 
• All our Pod doors are constructed in top-quality energy-efficient uPVC, with secure door lock mechanisms that are available in white or anthracite grey.
  

Schooner Pod (large glamping Pod)

• External dimensions: 2.4 x 2.3 x 4.2
• Offers more space for family-sized setups or added features
• Can accommodate a small kitchenette or ensuite layout
• Ideal for commercial glamping sites or luxury upgrades
• Comes fully assembled – ready to plug and play 
• There’s also an option for a glass-fronted Pod, which lets you enjoy a full panoramic view of your surroundings. This Pod option instantly offers a truly luxurious space customisable to suit your style.
• A range of different window options for the back of the Pod (50×50, 50×100, 100×100)
• Choose from seven different colours, or if you’d like a colour that’s bespoke to you, you can pay extra to have the exact colour you want
• All our floors are top-quality vinyl that is practical, hard-wearing and easy to clean.
• Your Hully Pod comes with a 16A hookup connector and 1 twin 13A mains socket as standard.
• You can add a Mains Pack, which gives you an extra socket, a light and switch, the choice of hookup side and access to other options. 
• All our Pod doors are constructed in top-quality energy-efficient uPVC, with secure door lock mechanisms that are available in white or anthracite grey.

Whether you’re starting with one Pod or planning a full site, Skipjack and Schooner Pods are both smart, scalable options.

Ready to Explore Glamping?

Hully Pods offer high-quality, British-made glamping Pods for site owners and private use.

If you’re curious about joining the staycation movement, get in touch with our team today.

Contact us or visit our workshop to learn more.

FAQs about Glamping Pods in the UK