Diversifying from farming to glamping accommodation has become a popular topic in recent years, but for a farm just outside Stirling in Scotland, it’s been part of the journey for many years. Drum Farm was once a traditional farming business with Dad managing animals across the 17-acre site whilst Mum ran a bed and breakfast (B&B) facility with 2 guest rooms.
In 2007 Jessica’s parents decided to retire to sunny Spain, the animals were sold off and the bed and breakfast left in the capable hands of Jessica. Jessica stepped into running the site along with her full-time job as an architect and having a new-born baby.
A New Chapter: Balancing Dreams and Realities
Over the next few years Jessica converted the stables on the farm with the help of her Dad, and by August 2019 she had created 4 more guest rooms. 4 months later and with 6 guest rooms running Jessica made the bold decision to leave her job and focus entirely on growing the B&B into something extraordinary for the leisure industry.
Then, the unexpected struck – COVID-19. The leisure industry came to a grinding halt in 2020, leaving Jessica in a precarious situation. Determined not to give up, she took a retail job to make ends meet while continuing to work tirelessly on her dream.
Drawing on her architectural background and her dislike for traditional camping, Jessica envisioned creating luxurious accommodations that combined the beauty of nature with modern comforts.
Finding the Perfect Glamping Accommodation: Geodomes
Jessica was determined to find something unique that would make her site stand out. At the UK Glamping Show, she discovered TruDomes geodomes. These stylish, high-tech structures offered the “wow” factor she was looking for. The domes were the vision she wanted for her glamping accommodation, next began the challenging process of securing planning permission.
Although the site had previously operated as a B&B, Jessica faced numerous hurdles with the planning department’s requests. She persevered, overcoming each obstacle to make her vision a reality.
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
With planning in place Jessica ordered her domes, purchasing two 6-meter domes and one 7-meter dome. But even with planning approval this was just the beginning. It was still the height of the pandemic, and skilled labour was scarce—or prohibitively expensive. Undeterred, Jessica rolled up her sleeves, donned her work gear, and began building the domes herself.
When faced with the high costs of hiring electricians, she didn’t back down. Instead, she enrolled in a six-week evening course to become a qualified electrician. All this while running the B&B and raising two teenagers as a single mum!
The Dream comes to life
Jessica’s vision for a luxurious, high-tech retreat is nearly complete. The first dome will welcome guests in February, with the remaining two expected to open by summer.
Each dome boasts high-spec amenities, including dedicated Wi-Fi, smart TVs, sensor-activated lighting, and smart chargers. Outside, guests can relax in a hot tub, enjoy outdoor heating, or take in the stunning views from a glass-balustraded seating area.
Designed to accommodate a family of four, the domes are equally perfect for couples or solo travellers seeking a tranquil retreat in nature without sacrificing modern comforts. Guests can enjoy long walks, admire Highland cattle grazing in nearby fields, and explore the wildlife around the reservoir—all while knowing they can return to the luxury of their dome.
A Bright Future
Jessica’s vision for Drum Farm doesn’t end with glamping accommodations. Plans include converting a shipping container into a convenient on-site shop, stocked with essential items for guests. She also envisions transforming the farm’s outbuildings into a restaurant, creating a full-service experience that will make the site even more inviting.
Jessica’s story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and determination. From overcoming personal challenges to navigating the pandemic, she has built a haven where guests can experience the best of both worlds: the beauty of nature and the convenience of technology.
Her journey shows that with vision and grit, it’s possible to transform dreams into reality—one dome at a time.
