Lintmill Lodges

Lintmill Lodges presents a charming getaway nestled in the picturesque village of Sorn. Designed for adults, especially couples, these bespoke woodland lodges come with the luxury of wood-fired hot tubs. The serene retreat offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cozy comfort, and is an ideal escape in the heart of East Ayrshire.

Founded by Nicola Young, Lintmill Lodges features three self-contained timber lodges, all just a short stroll from the village of Sorn.

As Nicola says:

“Our lodges offer guests the charm of outdoor glamping with the comfort of a warm, cozy home, especially when the Scottish weather turns unpredictable.”

Each lodge is equipped with an en-suite shower room, a king-size bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and a snug seating and dining area. The outdoor terrace boasts a private wood-fired hot tub, perfect for unwinding under the stars. Often, the hot tub is ready upon arrival, ensuring a truly indulgent experience from the get-go.

Marketing and online presence

Nicola explains:

“We primarily market and book our accommodations online, with a strong emphasis on social media. Our website is essentially our ‘shop window’, so it needs to be informative, user-friendly, and visually appealing.”

Developing the branding and logo was the first step, allowing Nicola to share the journey on social media, attract customer interest, and boost the online presence. Nicola attended Business Gateway webinars and courses to enhance her skills in creating engaging social media posts and reels.

Support from Business Gateway

Business Gateway has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of Lintmill Lodges.

Nicola shares:

“The support from Business Gateway has been invaluable. They provided advice on choosing between a franchise or our own business model and then helped us develop a comprehensive marketing plan.”

This support included setting up the website and social media accounts, which are crucial for driving direct bookings and engaging with potential guests.

Additionally, Business Gateway assisted with updating the business plan, reflecting the latest Visit Scotland statistics, current interest rates, and the economic climate. Nicola received guidance on financial reviews and secured funding for website development, branding, logo design, and social media communications support.

Nicola adds:

“As a new business with limited marketing experience, the ongoing support and training from Business Gateway has been vital in our journey.”

Conclusion

Lintmill Lodges is a testament to the power of well-directed business support combined with the dedication and vision of a young entrepreneur.

Nicola’s vision, coupled with the expertise and resources from Business Gateway, ensures that Lintmill Lodges not only meets but exceeds guest expectations. With the picturesque village of Sorn as its backdrop, Lintmill Lodges offers a unique and luxurious glamping experience, that provides unforgettable memories for all who visit.