The benefits of adding a shepherd hut to your farm

The benefits of adding a shepherd hut to your farm

With around 54% of the food on our plates produced on home turf right here in the UK according to the latest government data, the UK farming scene has an important role to play in the grander scheme of things. The industry however hasn’t been without its challenges, with post-Brexit labour shortages, the continually damning focus on the environment and climate change, and the lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic all taking their toll. More recently, it’s been the UK’s extreme rainfall that’s reduced food production, a building crisis that has resulted in many farmers looking to diversify.

Around 65% of all farm businesses in England have already done just that, and continue to operate other enterprises of varying sizes to supplement or consolidate their income. From farm shops and catering companies to wedding venues and B&Bs, farmland across the UK is being put to increased use to save the farming sector and support farm families, many of which have been around for generations. But, you don’t have to overhaul your entire operation to optimise the true potential of your land, enhance its productivity and diversify those revenue streams…

Read on to discover how a farm shepherd hut could be a real game-changer and transform your farming business for the modern age.

A versatile accommodation option

For farmers and landowners looking to change their fate, our farm shepherd huts provide versatile accommodation options, which are more than ideal for a variety of purposes.

Whether you’re looking to host guests or farm workers, or even set up digs for your own cosy retreat for agritourism, these compact yet comfortable, charming and rustic spaces offer flexibility like no other. The mobility of our shepherd huts will also come in handy, allowing you to adapt to your clientele’s changing needs at a moment’s notice.

Relocate to optimise views across your beautiful farmland or adjust to seasonal demands with ease by choosing a Greendown hut.

It is however important to note that sites renting out their shepherd huts for more than 28 days per calendar year to generate income will require full planning permission or an exemption. You’ll need to apply with your local council for the necessary permission, but with our support you can make the planning process as simple and straightforward as possible. You can find out more about shepherd hut planning permission by reading our helpful guide.

A magnet for tourists

More and more holidaymakers are looking for authentic travel experiences, trips that take them beyond the bright lights of cities or the glistening waters of a traditional beach resort. These days, travellers want to enjoy their holidays outdoors as much as possible far away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, and they’re heading to the country in search of the perfect settings.

Agritourism is officially on the rise, and farm shepherd huts have become magnets for visitors. By offering idyllic retreats with picturesque backdrops, you can tap into a lucrative market of holidaymakers who are eager to reconnect with nature and discover more about agricultural life. From stargazing nights to waking up to the sounds of nature, there really is so much for the modern-day tourist to love.

By welcoming tourists you’ll not only generate additional income for your farm business but help individuals foster a deeper appreciation of farming practices and rural heritage to support the industry as a whole.

A cost-effective investment

Exploring the costs of traditional extensions and conversions would have been your first stop when looking to add accommodation to your farmland. Compared to these conventional brick-and-mortar constructions however, farm shepherd huts deliver cost-effective alternatives that don’t compromise on quality.

In fact, the look and feel of a shepherd hut is one thing that isn’t easily replicated in a traditional build. The modular design and construction of our huts also makes them relatively quick and easy to install, saving both time and labour costs, not to mention a whole heap of disruption to your wider farm business. Their compact size means they require minimal space and leave behind far less of a footprint too.

When it comes to your return on investment, diversifying the income streams of your farmland with a wooden cabin makes even more sense. Just enter your details into our ROI Calculator to discover your potential returns.

A truly sustainable addition

As sustainability becomes increasingly important to farmers, landowners and individuals looking to travel more responsibly, shepherd huts embody that eco-friendly ethos that everyone can get on board with. Crafted from natural materials (including European Oak sourced from sustainable forests) and designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, these off-grid hideaways minimise environmental impact while maximising self-sufficiency.

An opportunity to engage

Beyond offering rustic accommodation, your farm shepherd hut provides the chance to create unique experiences that attract visitors, generate year-round revenue, and foster community engagement.

They can double as shared spaces for gatherings and events, including farmers’ markets, educational workshops and collaborative projects, and it’ll set you up for success not just on the agritourism scene but a little closer to home within the local community.

Explore our farm shepherd huts

Thankfully, you don’t have to search far to maximise your farmland’s potential. Here at Greendown Shepherd Huts, we provide huts for all, including for home and business use. Contact our team today or visit our show huts in person to discover more.