Glamping Popularity in the UK: What's the Demand?

Jun 13, 2025

Tired of boring tents and mystery insect bites? Meet glamping pods and tents that bring hotel vibes to the wild. Short answer? Demand is soaring. Brits crave nature with comfort. Keep reading to see who’s booking, when, and how these stays are getting greener.

Why is it Called Glamping? Unravelling the Glamour

Glamping is a portmanteau of glamorous and camping. The term emerged in the UK in the early 2000s and has since been recognised in the dictionary. It describes camping with comfort, convenience and style, bridging the gap between roughing it and a resort stay, with real beds, heating and attractive interiors in place of the usual camping inconveniences. The idea is far older than the word: Ottoman sultans and European kings travelled with lavish encampments, and early twentieth-century African safaris were famously luxurious, later giving rise to safari lodges and eco-resorts. The modern term took hold as demand for experiential travel grew and more people wanted access to nature without giving up their creature comforts.

The Glamping Boom: A Look at the Numbers

The Growing Market: Size and Projections

Global Market Valuation: From Billions to More Billions

Glamping, a blend of glamour and camping, is fast becoming the getaway of choice for many UK travellers. It combines the freedom of the outdoors with home comforts—no muddy tents or inflatable mattresses in sight.

This appeal has led to a surge in popularity, with more holidaymakers opting for glamping pods, tents, and eco-friendly cabins. It’s not just a quirky trend anymore; it’s a growing industry.

And that growth is only getting stronger.

Wooden barrel-shaped glamping pod with a hexagonal windowed door, set on a grassy area under trees.

Expected Growth Rate (CAGR) Through 2030

Over the past few years, the UK glamping market has seen consistent, sharp increases.

Here’s a quick look:

2020: £150 million (+10%)
2021: £180 million (+20%)
2022: £220 million (+22%)

With that trajectory, industry experts expect solid annual growth to continue well beyond 2030.

Regional Hotspots: Europe’s Dominance and North America’s Rapid Growth

Within the UK, some regions have emerged as glamping favourites.

The Scottish Highlands offer breathtaking landscapes and peace. Cornwall brings coastal charm, while the Lake District appeals to those after hiking and water-based activities.

Europe remains a stronghold in the global glamping scene, though North America is gaining fast. Especially around national parks, demand there is spiking.

The Key Drivers Fueling Glamping’s Popularity

The Rise of Experiential Travel and Staycations

As travel preferences shift, glamping stands out. It's a unique alternative for those who want a memorable trip, without the stress of airports or long flights.

With more people opting to holiday in the UK, glamping gives them a fresh way to explore the countryside. It feels like an adventure—but with a comfy bed and a hot shower.

The Influence of Social Media and “Instagrammable” Trips

Social media has done wonders for glamping.

Images of dreamy domes, starlit yurts, and scenic pods fill Instagram feeds. These picture-perfect settings tempt viewers into booking their own shareable getaways.

It’s not just aesthetics—it’s marketing gold for glamping sites.

A Growing Focus on Wellness, Nature, and Digital Detoxes

Glamping also taps into the wellness movement.

Guests want time in nature without sacrificing comfort. For many, a glamping trip is the ideal digital detox: no work emails, just woodland views and perhaps a glass of wine by the firepit.

This emphasis on mental and physical wellbeing is a key part of glamping’s ongoing appeal.

Grey arched glamping pod with double glass doors and side windows, situated in a landscaped garden with trees.

Glamping Pod Meaning: Everything You Need to Know

Glamping means glamorous camping, and the glamping pod is its purpose-built home in nature. Pods are compact, well-designed structures with solid insulation, comfortable beds, heating, en-suite bathrooms and often a kitchenette, ranging from basic retreats to luxury hideaways with hot tubs. They are more durable and weatherproof than yurts and bell tents, particularly in cold weather, while cabins and treehouses suit those who want a more traditional structure. Sustainability is increasingly built in, with eco-friendly materials and off-grid power. Today's glampers include couples, families, solo travellers and retirees who want to be close to nature without giving up comfort, and demand for immersive yet comfortable stays continues to drive the sector's growth.

Who is Driving the Demand and What Are They Looking For?

The Modern Glamper: Key Demographics

Millennials and Gen Z: Seeking Unique, Shareable Experiences

Young adults between 25 and 45 are leading the charge.

These glampers want more than a place to sleep. They’re after unforgettable, photogenic experiences—treehouses, domes, and lakeside pods that make for great stories and even better selfies.

Families: Looking for Comfortable and Accessible Nature Outings

Families with children also love glamping.

It offers all the adventure of camping without the discomfort. Think marshmallows by the fire, woodland walks, and quality time—plus a real bed at the end of the day.

Couples: In Search of Romantic and Secluded Getaways

Couples choose glamping for the privacy and atmosphere.

It’s ideal for anniversaries, mini-moons, or just escaping the city. Luxury tents, private hot tubs, and quiet surroundings make it an easy win for romance.

Emerging Trends Shaping Future Demand

The Push for Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Travel

Eco-friendliness is becoming non-negotiable.

Many glamping sites are going green—using solar panels, compost toilets, and materials sourced from nature. Travellers now expect sustainability to be part of the package, not a bonus.

It’s good for the planet and even better for long-term business.

Two white barrel-style glamping pods with dark shingle roofs, placed on a gravel clearing surrounded by green hills and shrubs.

The Integration of Technology for Seamless Booking and Comfort

Despite its rustic charm, glamping is becoming more high-tech.

Sites now offer seamless online booking, digital check-ins, and even smart heating in luxury pods. The blend of nature and convenience is a major attraction for modern guests.

The Demand for Unique Accommodations (Domes, Treehouses, and Pods)

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all.

Today’s glampers want standout stays—domes under the stars, treehouses in remote woods, or pods with panoramic views. These aren’t just rooms; they’re experiences.

And the more unique the stay, the higher the demand.

Other content you might like:

Phil McEleney

Get to know me

Started CamperNation to make buying caravan and glamping gear feel simple, honest, and stress-free. Now helps customers daily with awnings, power solutions and outdoor setups. Usually found talking canvas, campsites, and why the kettle is the most important piece of kit.

Back to Glamping Pods / Tents Blog