A couple have pumped their life savings into creating a new high-end luxury glamping venture at a visitor attraction.
Natalie Boyce and Joss Barriball will open Poppy Fields Glamping at Amerton Farm, in Stowe by Chartley, near Stafford, this weekend.
Offering a luxurious, family-focused, eco-friendly experience, their aim is to provide a “stress-free and memorable” retreat.
The site features a variety of accommodations named after various poppy flowers including a spacious bell tent for 12 guests, various cosy bell tents for two to four people, shepherd’s huts and add-on buds to provide space for an extra two people.
The pair, who are due to get married at the end of the summer, have used Natalie’s creative streak from a background at Falmouth’s design college to design the glamping units and, as a local, she is eager to share her extensive knowledge of the area with guests.
Joss complements her creativity with practical insights from two decades of marketing and media experience in London.
Natalie said: “We have invested all of our life savings to ensure we are high-end luxury. “This is a venture we have always dreamed of providing and are passionate about bringing to Amerton.
“We chose Amerton Farm for its stunning location and family-friendly atmosphere.
“It’s a perfect place for both adults and children to unwind and create lasting memories.
“We wanted to provide a unique glamping experience that combines luxury with sustainability, and Amerton Farm offers the ideal setting for this vision.”
Each accommodation has a personal seating area, an outdoor kitchen with fridge and there is also an outside communal dining area with tables that have integrated board games.
Its commitment to sustainability means Poppy Fields puts an emphasis on refurbishing, repurposing, recycling and using eco-friendly products including luxury eco-toilets.
The site is vehicle-free ensuring a safe environment for children to explore and play.
The opening of Poppy Fields brings accommodation back to the site for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Amerton Farm owner Eunice Finney used to run a B&B inside the farmhouse before it was forced to close because of the pandemic and it has been her aim to bring back accommodation since.
She said: “We are delighted to welcome Poppy Fields Glamping to Amerton Farm as we celebrate our 40th anniversary of being open to the general public and the re-introduction of on-site accommodation at the farm.
“Poppy Fields Glamping’s commitment to sustainability and family-friendly experiences aligns perfectly with our values, and we believe they will be a fantastic addition to our community.”
The grand opening takes place on Sunday, 14 July when visitors will be able to explore the site and meet the founders between 11am and 4pm.
Family-run Amerton Farm, on the A518 between Stafford and Uttoxeter, has a farmyard with animals, indoor and outdoor play areas and is home to various businesses including a paint a pot studio.
The attraction recently launched Amerton Artisan Hall, a platform for around 40 artisans, creative and entrepreneurs to showcase their unique products and services. Read more about that in the Daily Focus story here.
