The Inn at Charlestown set to install new glamping pods as part of re-brand

The Inn at Charlestown, formerly the Elgin Hotel, has secured permission from Fife Council to build four new glamping pods on its estate.

The proposals are the latest in a series of renovations and refurbishments at the 100-year-old Inn since it was bought by Steven Campbell in 2020.

The Inn describes itself online as a “beautiful country hotel situated in the tranquil and picturesque village of Charlestown, only a ten minute drive from the ancient city of Dunfermline.”

Despite its long-established reputation in Fife, hotel revenue fell significantly in recent years due to “the hotel and its operations needing significant modernisation.”

According to planning papers, the hotel was purchased by Mr Campbell with the aim to create a fantastic hotel and restaurant with a modern Scottish style.

Since the Inn changed hands, it has been on a path of complete renovation. Past stages have included a total refurbishment of the hotel, the creation of six balconies, and the construction of two lodges, which are expected to be finished next year.

Since the start of these changes, planning papers claim The Inn has gone “from strength to strength.”

Turnover has doubled from the previous owners last full year, and 50 weddings are expected to take place in 2023-24 compared to two advanced wedding sales pre-sale.

“During the middle of 2022 the hotel ran at 95% occupancy. With the number of future weddings and events booked and the increased marketing of the Fife Coastal by Fife Tourism Partnership (we are the recommended first night stay) additional accommodation is required for the continued growth of the business,” a planning statement said.

“The proposed pods are fantastic additional accommodation as they can be installed in a matter of hours with minimal disruption to the rest of the hotel and neighbouring properties.”

With views over the Firth of Forth, the Pentland Hills and the Forth Bridges, the Inn claims its estate is the ideal spot for glampers.

The approved proposals state that the hotel will build four accommodation pods on land to the rear of the building facing the hotel car park. Four additional parking spaces will also be created by extending the existing car park.

The ground in question is currently unused garden space, and developers say the additional accommodation is necessary as the business expands.

“The hotel industry is currently struggling due to the increased costs of supplies and reduced consumer spending with the cost of living crisis,” developers warned.

“Many hotels and other businesses will close. However, this [glamping pod] investment will ensure the long-term success of the hotel.”

The new pods will ultimately compliment the Inn’s existing hotel offering. Developers can now begin work on their proposals in due course.