Once forgotten ancient Cornish estate re-invigorated for the glamping age

The owner of a once neglected and almost forgotten woodland estate in north Cornwall is forging ahead with plans to add to the accommodation offering at the Fir Hill Estate glamping site.

Purchased by Charlie Hoblyn in 2012, the 62-acre estate near Newquay has been owned by the Hoblyn family since the late 16th century but was abandoned and left to nature in the 1940s. A sensitive reclamation and restoration project has seen Charlie add ten yurts, a bright, contemporary Barn and Cowshed leisure area overlooking Porth Reservoir and orchard packed with local apple and cherry tree varieties. New for 2021, two further yurts will be added to the site.

Currently guests can choose from nine ‘jumbo’ family yurts (sleeping up to six in a king size bed and two double beds) and one smaller honeymoon yurt (sleeping a couple or small family). The two new yurts will be the smaller (5.8m diameter) style incorporating a double and single bed. Each yurt has its own firepit, personal BBQ and kitchen area with gas stove, cool box, running water for drinking and washing up as well as pots and pans.

The expansion of the glamping is part of a five-year vision to both preserve the ancient family estate and lend the land a new lease of life. Additional plans include renovating the derelict former manor house and incorporating a further ten yurts.

Speaking about the plans, Charlie said: “The honeymoon yurt proved the most popular this year and I wanted to be able to respond to the current demand for holidaying in the UK and getting back to nature. We’re also encouraging guests to come for longer stays in 2021. Not only is there plenty to do around this beautiful stretch of the north Cornish coast but an extended break helps people truly unplug, enjoy this secluded woodland setting and bond with each other around the campfire.”

Other plans in place for 2021 include the introduction of a coasteering package, hamper service and foraging for wild food around the estate. Charlie is also confident that with the arrival of a vaccine, the tranquil estate will be popular with families and groups of friends keen to get together for celebrations and special occasions. “The Fir Hill is perfect for group gatherings,” he said. “Everyone has their own space but there is our fabulous terrace with BBQ and pizza oven for coming together for food and drinks as well as a communal fire pit.”

For more information and to book visit www.thefirhill.co.uk