East Yorkshire Farms Embrace Rural Tourism to Boost Local Economy

Farms across East Yorkshire are diversifying their incomes by transforming agricultural land into rural tourism destinations with support from local business services.

Farming incomes across East Yorkshire are being strengthened as agricultural businesses transform underused land into thriving rural tourism destinations.

Sustainably built cabins and luxury glamping sites are among the new ventures helping to draw more visitors to the countryside. The drive to diversify aims to secure the future of rural communities by creating reliable, alternative revenue streams for traditional farming enterprises.

Invest East Yorkshire's Business Support Services team, part of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, is actively assisting these farms. The team helps agricultural workers to develop comprehensive business plans, explore fresh commercial opportunities, and access vital professional advice to turn their ideas into successful ventures.

Near Driffield, the Wolds Project has introduced sustainably built cabins designed to help holidaymakers reconnect with nature. The initiative goes beyond simply providing accommodation, offering guests the unique chance to learn more about modern farming practices during their stay.

Elsewhere, Bainton Burrows has diversified its traditional operations by opening a luxury glamping destination. The site has recently welcomed its first guests, creating high-quality, additional visitor accommodation within the East Riding.

In Barmby Moor, Holborn Hideaways has launched a new tourism business that transforms underused farmland into a peaceful rural retreat. The venture provides a flexible business model that generates income while continuing to support family life on the farm.

Together, these newly established businesses are significantly increasing the supply of rural accommodation across the area. The expanded lodging options are designed to encourage visitors to stay longer in the region and explore more of the local countryside.

This extended visitor presence is expected to have a positive ripple effect, supporting local attractions, hospitality businesses, and independent retailers throughout East Yorkshire.

Leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Anne Handley, said:

"We're proud to support farming communities in our region. Farm diversification plays an important role in supporting the long-term sustainability of rural businesses across East Yorkshire. We encourage interested farmers to contact the business support team and find out more about the support available."

The tourism sector is also welcoming the addition of these new rural retreats, which highlight the natural assets and heritage of the region.

Tourism Manager at Visit East Yorkshire, William Hall, said:

"The Yorkshire Wolds and our surrounding countryside are among East Yorkshire's greatest assets, and businesses like these help showcase the area's natural beauty, local food and drink, outdoor activities and rural heritage.

By creating distinctive visitor experiences, they're not only supporting their own businesses but also bringing wider benefits to local communities and the tourism sector as a whole."

The tailored business support is delivered through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which is financed by the UK Government. The business support services team continues to work with enterprises across the region to help them start, grow, and diversify their operations.