Teapot Lane Glamping: Meet Derval McGovern
When and why was Teapot Lane Glamping established?
I created it in June 2010. It is Ireland's first glamping site. I had a beautiful woodland property with two cottages (one of them my own home) and I saw a gap in the Irish market as glamping had already taken off in the U.K.
What kinds of accommodation can one expect at your glamping site and what is included in that?
For families, our yurts are ideal, which gives them the opportunity to self-cater in our communal kitchen. We also have toilets and hot showers available for our guests. A campfire can be lit in the evenings and a BYOB bar with a wine fridge and a selection of glasses in a large dining shelter can be used in all types of weather.
We also have a self-catering cottage, a treehouse for couples, as well as a vintage caravan for couples and individuals.
What kinds of activities are available at or close to the glamping site?
There are a lot of activities in the area for our guests.
They include surfing in nearby Bundoran, Co. Donegal; supping (stand up paddling) in Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo; kayaking for water sport enthusiasts, and horse riding, also in Donegal and Sligo.
Our visitors often take farm tours at Atlantic Sheepdogs, spend a day at Eagles Flying, Ireland's largest sanctuary for raptors and owls; visit the Wild Atlantic Alpaca Farm in Grange Co. Sligo, and take walks and hikes in the area. There is also a multitude of restaurants in the area to enjoy.
Is your glamping site more suitable for weekend getaways or do you also cater to people interested in glamping for an extended stay, say for a week or so?
We offer group packages and exclusive hire at the weekends for hen parties and birthday celebrations.
It is also suitable for shorter two-night stays. All accommodation must be booked for a minimum of two nights.
Some people may be a bit hesitant to try glamping at first. How would you persuade them to give it a go?
Glamping isn’t for everyone but if you like the outdoors and feel like experiencing something a bit different, I encourage people to give it a try.
You will be warm and comfortable with full-size beds and heated yurts. It is ideal for groups of friends as well as couples and families. Glamping is not ensuite in most places.
Since many overseas visitors turn to hotels or B&Bs as their choice of accommodation in Ireland, would you say that glamping offers them a viable alternative?
Our business is mostly catered to the domestic market, but yes, it would be a viable alternative for independent visitors to Ireland and possibly provide a more intimate authentic experience.
Why should people consider Teapot Lane Glamping as opposed to other glamping sites in the West of Ireland?
We are in an ideal location to explore the three beautiful counties of Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal.
There is so much to do and see for tourists, with a choice of stunning beaches and the coastline a short drive away.
The Northwest is great for adventure tourism and eating out. There is something for everyone here.
Budget is always a concern for readers of Ireland on a Budget? Does Teapot Lane Glamping offer good value for money?
Yes, it is good value for money. You can sip your own drinks and prepare your own meals in excellent facilities here. You can enjoy the company of friends or family by the campfire or in the specially made communal areas.
It is a great budget alternative to the traditional hotel break.
What is the best way to reach you if one wants to book a stay?
We can be reached via our website, where you'll find our booking inquiry forms and other contact details.
Read More: Glamping in Ireland: 11 Budget-Friendly Sites for Couples and Families