Shepherd Huts or Hotels? Why Our Luxury Glamping Wins Every Time in Angus

Hello everyone!

I’m Emma, and I run Foresterseat Holiday Park in Forfar, Angus. Over the years, I’ve stayed in my fair share of hotels and B&Bs across Scotland—some lovely, some disappointing, and quite a few that promised “stunning views” only to deliver a panorama of the car park or neighbouring building’s brick wall. It was actually one particularly underwhelming hotel stay in Perth (gorgeous lobby, but my “countryside view” was of industrial bins) that sparked the idea for our luxury shepherd huts here at Foresterseat.

Today, I want to share why more and more of our guests are choosing our shepherd huts over traditional accommodation—and why, once you’ve experienced genuine privacy, space, and those sweeping Angus countryside views, you’ll never want to go back to cramped hotel rooms or shared breakfast tables again.

The “Room with a View” Reality Check

Let’s start with that classic accommodation promise: the “room with a view.” I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve arrived at a supposedly scenic hotel or B&B, only to find my window overlooking a fire escape, kitchen extraction fan, or—in one memorable case—someone’s washing line. It’s become such marketing speak that we’ve almost forgotten what a real view should feel like.

When I step outside our Strathmore shepherd hut first thing in the morning with my coffee, I’m looking across rolling Angus hills that stretch to the horizon, with red squirrels playing in the oak trees and the only sounds being birdsong and the gentle rustle of leaves. No traffic noise, no slamming doors from the corridor, no one else’s conversations drifting through thin walls. That’s what a view should be—an experience that makes you pause and appreciate where you are.

Our other huts—Laird, Wallis, Airlie, and our newest flagship Clova—each offer their own vantage points across the countryside. These aren’t views carefully angled between buildings or glimpsed through narrow windows; they’re panoramic vistas that remind you why you came to Scotland in the first place.

Space to Actually Breathe

Here’s something that always surprises our guests: the sheer amount of space they have. Hotel rooms, especially at the £80-140 price point, are often designed to maximise occupancy rather than comfort. You’ve got just enough room to walk around the bed, a tiny table that doubles as a desk, a bathroom where you’re practically sitting on the toilet to close the door, and often just a single window that makes the whole space feel stuffy and claustrophobic.

Our shepherd huts flip this entirely. Each one is thoughtfully designed as a complete living space—not just a place to sleep. You’ve got a proper seating area where you can actually relax with a book or glass of wine, a fully equipped kitchenette where you can prepare meals exactly when you want them, an en-suite bathroom with a proper shower that doesn’t involve contorting yourself to avoid the shower curtain, and five windows throughout that flood the space with natural light and give you those countryside views from every angle.

Our newest addition, Clova—our flagship hut with premium bedding and the most spacious dining area yet—perfectly exemplifies this approach. When you step into Clova, you immediately understand why cramped hotel rooms simply can’t compare to this level of thoughtful design and genuine luxury in a countryside setting.

But perhaps most importantly, you’ve got your own private outdoor space. Every hut has its own seating area where you can enjoy that morning coffee, an evening dram, or simply sit and watch the sunset paint the sky over the Angus hills. Try doing that from a hotel balcony overlooking the high street.

The Freedom of Your Own Schedule

I’ll be honest—B&B breakfasts can be lovely when you’re in the mood for a full Scottish fry-up and a chat with fellow guests. But sometimes, you just want to have your coffee in your pyjamas while watching the mist roll across the hills, or perhaps you’d prefer a lazy brunch at 11 am rather than the traditional 8-9 am window.

With our huts, your schedule is entirely your own. Fancy a midnight snack? Your kitchenette is right there. Want to start the day with fresh fruit and yoghurt while sitting outside in the morning sunshine? Perfect. Prefer to drive to a local pub for dinner one night and cook a simple pasta the next? It’s all up to you.

This flexibility becomes even more valuable when you’re planning active days out in Angus. If you’re heading to Carnoustie for an early golf round, you can grab a quick breakfast and head out at 6 am without disturbing anyone or waiting for the breakfast room to open. If you’ve spent the day hiking in Glen Clova and return exhausted, you can have a hot shower and relax in your own space without having to make polite conversation in a hotel lobby.

Privacy That’s Actually Private

Let me paint you a picture of a typical hotel experience: you’re trying to have a quiet phone call with family, but the couple next door are having a row. The bathroom fan sounds like a helicopter, and every time someone walks past in the corridor, you can hear their entire conversation. In the morning, you’re queuing for the breakfast buffet behind someone who’s taken enough sausages to feed a small village.

Now contrast that with stepping out of your shepherd hut at Foresterseat. The only queue you’ll encounter is perhaps a family of rabbits crossing your path. Each hut has a spacious area around it, giving you complete privacy without isolation. You can have that important work call, enjoy a romantic dinner on your private deck, or simply read in comfortable silence.

For couples celebrating anniversaries or planning romantic getaways, this privacy is transformative. Instead of whispering sweet nothings while someone pounds on thin hotel walls next door, you’re sharing intimate moments with nothing but countryside views and starlit skies as your backdrop.

The Hidden Costs of “Budget” Accommodation

Here’s where things get interesting from a value perspective. That £80-140 hotel room or B&B might seem straightforward, but let’s add up the hidden costs. Hotel parking? Often £10-15 per night. Want a coffee outside of meal times? £3.50 at the hotel café. Fancy a glass of wine in your room? You’re looking at hotel mini-bar prices or a trek to find an off-licence.

Our shepherd huts include everything: parking right outside your door, tea and coffee essentials with a kettle, a fridge to store your own drinks and snacks, and even BBQ facilities if you fancy cooking outdoors. Plus, we’ve got on-site laundry facilities—just £3 for a wash and 20p for 20 minutes in the dryer, which is cheaper than any laundrette and available whenever you need it. When you factor in the money you’ll save on coffees, snacks, and those inevitable “we need something from the shop” trips, the huts often work out cheaper than traditional accommodation—while delivering an infinitely superior experience.

Authentic Scottish Highland Experience

This is where our shepherd huts really come into their own. Hotels, by their nature, could be anywhere—the same chain furniture, the same corporate atmosphere whether you’re in Angus or Birmingham. B&Bs are more characterful, but you’re still experiencing someone else’s home and adapting to their routine.

Our huts give you an authentic taste of Scottish Highland living, but with all the modern comforts you need. You’re waking up to genuine countryside sounds—skylarks singing, sheep in distant fields, maybe the bark of a fox—rather than traffic and air conditioning units. You’re experiencing the changing light across the landscape throughout the day, watching weather systems roll across the hills, and feeling genuinely connected to the spectacular Angus environment.

Yet you’re not roughing it. Each hut has excellent insulation and heating, so you’re cosy even on those dramatic Scottish nights when the wind is howling outside. You’ve got proper beds with quality linen, hot showers, and reliable Wi-Fi if you need to stay connected.

Perfect Base for Angus Adventures

One of the biggest advantages of choosing our huts becomes apparent when you start exploring Angus. Unlike city centre hotels where you’re fighting traffic to get to the countryside, or rural B&Bs that might be beautifully located but miles from anywhere, Foresterseat sits in that perfect sweet spot.

We’re close enough to Forfar for shops, restaurants, and amenities, but surrounded by countryside that puts you immediately in touch with the best of Angus. Glamis Castle is 15 minutes away, the Angus Glens are 30 minutes north, the coast is 30 minutes east, and world-class golf courses like Carnoustie are easily accessible.

More importantly, you can return from your adventures to your own private retreat. After a day walking the cliffs at Arbroath or exploring Dundee’s cultural attractions, you’re not returning to a hotel where you need to dress appropriately for the public areas or make conversation in the lift. You’re coming home to your own space where you can flop down in comfortable clothes, make a cup of tea exactly how you like it, and process the day’s experiences in peace.

The Weather Factor

Let’s talk about Scottish weather—because anyone who’s spent time here knows it can be, shall we say, changeable. Hotels and B&Bs can feel quite claustrophobic when you’re weather-bound, especially if the only communal area is a small lounge shared with other guests.

Our shepherd huts are designed for Scottish weather. When it’s gorgeous, you can throw open the doors, sit on your deck, and feel like you’re living outdoors. When the weather turns, you’ve got a cosy, well-insulated space with big windows that still give you those countryside views while keeping you warm and dry. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a Highland storm roll across the landscape from the comfort of your own snug retreat.

The Test: What Our Guests Actually Say

I could sing the praises of our huts all day, but perhaps it’s more convincing to share what our guests tell us. Kacper, who’s stayed with us twice now, puts it perfectly: “Lovely place. This is my second time staying here and it definitely won’t be the last :)” He’s someone who’s clearly got options but keeps choosing to return.

Paula captures exactly what I mean about the complete experience: “Fully equipped with everything you will need including cushions for the outside chairs. Tranquil setting, compact spotless hut, even has a restaurant in walking distance – perfect break away!!” That attention to detail—right down to the outdoor cushions—is what sets us apart from cramped hotel rooms.

But perhaps most telling is Geoff P’s review: “Wish I had found Foresters retreat years ago. Tranquillity is difficult to explain. When you find it, you want to return.” When someone talks about tranquillity being “difficult to explain,” you know you’re offering something that hotels and B&Bs simply can’t match.

Sarah sums up the practical benefits beautifully: “Lovely Shepherds hut with great facilities & a friendly welcome. Quiet & peaceful area but there is a restaurant a short walk away & very easy to get a bus into Forfar. Great outdoor space for when the weather is good, would not hesitate to stay here again!” It’s that perfect balance of peaceful retreat with convenient access to everything you need.

Making the Right Choice for Your Angus Adventure

Here’s the thing: there’s nothing inherently wrong with hotels or B&Bs. They serve their purpose, and I’ve had some lovely stays over the years. But when you’re visiting somewhere as spectacular as Angus—with its dramatic glens, historic castles, world-class golf courses, and stunning coastline—don’t you want accommodation that enhances the experience rather than just providing a place to sleep?

Our shepherd huts aren’t just somewhere to stay; they’re an integral part of your Scottish Highland experience. You’re not just visiting Angus; you’re living in it, even if only for a few days. You’re waking up to those countryside views, falling asleep to the sounds of nature, and enjoying the kind of privacy and space that allows you to truly unwind and connect with this beautiful part of Scotland.

Practical Details for Your Stay

Each of our five luxury shepherd huts—Strathmore, Laird, Wallis, Airlie, and our flagship Clova—is fully self-contained with en-suite bathroom, kitchenette, comfortable seating area, and private outdoor space. They’re equipped with everything you need: quality bedding and towels, basic cookware and crockery, tea and coffee essentials, and heating for year-round comfort.

We’re located just off the A932 near Forfar, making us easily accessible while still feeling beautifully remote. There’s free parking right outside your hut, and we’re just two miles from Forfar’s shops and bars if you need anything we haven’t already provided.

Sinclair’s Kitchen, our on-site restaurant, offers modern Scottish cuisine featuring local ingredients—perfect for nights when you want a special dinner without leaving the park. We’re particularly proud of our Thursday steak nights and Sunday roasts. While Sinclair’s is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, you can get great takeaways delivered door to door in no time from Forfar. I’m also personally fond of the café at Murton Reserve, which is open every day—they do fabulous soups and really good coffee!

Book Your Authentic Angus Experience

If you’re planning a trip to Angus and wondering where to stay, I’d encourage you to think beyond the standard hotel or B&B options. Our shepherd huts offer something genuinely different: space, privacy, genuine views, and the freedom to experience this beautiful part of Scotland on your own terms.

Whether you’re here for golf, hiking, exploring castles, or simply escaping for a peaceful weekend, our huts provide the perfect base. You’ll have all the comfort and convenience you need, plus those authentic Scottish Highland moments that turn a good holiday into an unforgettable experience.

Special Airbnb Offer: We’re currently offering exclusive discounts on our shepherd huts through Airbnb, including our brand new flagship hut Clova. With our recently updated profiles featuring enhanced photos and descriptions, you’ll get a true sense of what makes these huts special before you even arrive.

Ready to see what “room with a view” actually means? Book your stay at Foresterseat and discover why our guests keep telling us this is their happy place.

I’d love to welcome you to Angus and show you why, once you’ve experienced the shepherd hut difference, traditional accommodation simply can’t compare.

Best wishes, Emma x