As featured on BBC Scotland and BBC Two’s “This Farming Life,” we chat with Nick and Holly Thomson, farmers in Dumfries & Galloway, about their journey diversifying into holiday accommodation. They share why they chose modular construction, how it’s impacted their farm, and the rave reviews they’ve received.
Q: Why did you decide to diversify your farm?
A: We’d always dreamed of having holiday accommodation, but it wasn’t until we lost 300 acres to forestry that we seriously considered it. We needed to find new income streams. Being filmed for “This Farming Life” and Holly joining the Iron & Pine team gave us the push we needed.
Q: What made you choose Iron & Pine’s Classic Z modular accommodation?
A: We initially considered a mix of Classic Z and Classic units, but the Classic Z’s design ultimately won us over. The way the bedroom and living area overlook the Galloway Hills is just breath-taking. The distinct kitchen area also adds a unique touch and lets not forget about the floor to ceiling end window!
Q: How did the modular design affect the construction process compared to traditional methods?
A: The biggest advantage was minimising disruption to our land and daily farm operations. With groundworks sorted, the lodges arrived ready to go. Balancing farm work, Holly’s job, and a toddler, managing a traditional build would have been a logistical nightmare. Iron & Pine handled the construction, which was a huge relief.
Q: What feedback have you received from guests?
A: We’ve had nothing but five-star reviews! Guests, friends, and family are blown away. It’s the perfect couples’ retreat. The stunning glass windows perfectly frame the beautiful views. People are amazed to learn the lodge started as a shipping container.
Q: Did you customise the Classic Z modules?
A: We picked Iron & Pine’s floorplan which positioned the living area and bedroom to maximise the view, which allowed us to add a longer decking area. We also included a breakfast bar in the kitchen to save space and offer a different dining option.
Q: How has the accommodation impacted your farm’s revenue?
A: The lodges have been incredibly successful, exceeding our expectations. We’re already seeing a nice profit after just three months, with back-to-back bookings even in February! We’re excited to see how the summer season goes.
Q: How was the installation process, and what support did Iron & Pine provide?
A: Iron & Pine were fantastic. Their customer service is exceptional. They’re attentive, helpful, and communicative. They even supported us through hiccups with the groundworks, which weren’t even their responsibility.
Q: What sustainable features were important to you, and how have guests reacted?
A: Energy efficiency was key. We wanted to offer luxuries like a hot tub and dishwasher without excessive running costs. The units are incredibly energy efficient, heat up quickly, and the foundations had minimal impact on the land.
Q: Did you encounter any challenges, and how did Iron & Pine help?
A: We had no issues with Iron & Pine. Our main challenges were with the groundworks, due to our inexperience. However, Iron & Pine was there to guide us every step of the way. They also connected us with Greenfinch, who handled our planning permission flawlessly. The entire process was smooth and stress-free.
Q: Would you recommend Iron & Pine’s Classic Z modular accommodation to other farmers?
A: Absolutely! The style and design are stunning and impress everyone. Even delivery drivers were amazed. The minimal site disruption is crucial, especially for working farms like ours. These accommodations are perfect for that.
Q: Looking back, would you do anything differently?
A: We’d love a larger lodge with separate bedrooms for families, but that’s a project for the future!
If you want to follow Nick and Holly’s farming journey on This Farming Life, you can watch it every Tuesday at 8pm on BBC Scotland or Sundays at 8pm BBC Two. Keep your eye out for episode 12 where we feature!
Feeling inspired?
If you are a looking to add holiday accommodation to your farm, book a call directly with Laura to get the conversation started!
