Success Story
Highland Hilly Huts secured a loan of £50,000 through fund manager DSL Business Finance, enabling them to build a third cabin.
| Region/Nation | Scotland |
|---|---|
| Sector | Hospitality, Accommodation and Food Service Activities |
| Programme | Investment Fund for Scotland |
| Partner |
Founders Paul Brock and his wife relocated to Drumnadrochit from the Cotswolds six years ago, seeking to be closer to their family. The couple found seven acres of land in the Highlands and made the decision to move, drawn by the allure of the area’s nature and spectacular views.
Inspired by their stunning surroundings, the couple developed the idea of creating serene retreat for couples. They obtained planning permission in April 2022 and Highland Hilly Huts launched two cabins in March 2023. Paul projected a 50% booking rate for the first year, but both cabins have been fully occupied after only a few months of opening.
The two cabins – named ‘Evelyn’ and ‘Rose’ after the couple’s daughters – are designed to provide comfort, privacy, and panoramic views of the mountains. Both feature a fully equipped kitchen, eco-friendly hot tub, and outdoor wood burner.
It’s been an amazing journey so far and great to see how quickly the business has become successful. Currently, I manage and maintain the cabins with my father-in-law, but if our business keeps growing we could potentially employ additional staff.
The funding from the British Business Bank’s Investment Fund for Scotland has been crucial in building and fitting a third cabin to expand our business. The cabins are situated close to both historical and natural sights and we aim to attract people all year round – not just in the summer months. With the expansion, we now look forward to welcoming even more guests.
Right now, we’re focusing on getting the third cabin in place, but we might want to have a fourth one, further down the road. Our land spans seven acres of beautiful scenery and, while it presents some logistical challenges, I believe it would be a spectacular addition.
- Paul Brock Founder, Highland Hilly Huts
Quick links
More success stories
Read a success story about Ruuby
An on-demand beauty marketplace, which allows customers to order a host of beauty services to their desired location, has raised £2m to accelerate its growth in the North West by doubling down on its existing operations in Manchester and Liverpool.
Read a success story about Power Roll
Based in Murton, Power Roll, a pioneer in the solar energy transition, has raised £4.3 million in its most recent funding round, including £1.5 million from NPIF II – Maven Equity Finance, which is managed by Maven Capital Partners as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II.
Read a success story about Xentra
A fast-growing Leeds cybersecurity company secured a six-figure loan from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, which is managed by Mercia as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).