Off-grid holiday retreat company launches in Cheshire and Wales with backing from Clive Sykes
With the backing of Clive Sykes and Miles Hill, formerly of Sykes Cottages, entrepreneur Harry Tomkinson has launched Shacks, a portfolio of off-grid cabins located in secluded beauty spots in England and Wales.
Age 27, Harry from Chester, always had a love of building and constructing things and has turned his hand to building cabins that comfortably sleep up to three guests and their four-legged companions, in areas perfect for re-connecting with nature and disconnecting from the 9-5 work regime. Each cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, natural linen bedding, woodburning stove, and a bathroom with high-quality fittings. Everything in the cabin is sustainable such as the coffee, olive oil and toiletries, with board games and books also coming included.
Harry said: “With composting loos, solar power, kitchen, bathroom, and a king-sized bed all integrated into a small space, the process has been very gratifying to create such a unique holiday experience with such a low carbon impact.
“We understand the value of seclusion, and that’s why each of our locations have been handpicked to ensure guests are surrounded by nothing but nature. Whether you’re perched on top of a mountain with sprawling views, or deep within a forest, our off-grid cabins promise a stay unlike any other.
“For those with a thirst for exploration, our locations are strategically situated near some of the best walking routes such as the Sandstone Trail in Llangollen, and the North Berwyn Way in Cheshire. Walk along scenic trails, climb rugged terrains, or simply take a stroll—the beauty of nature is always a few steps away. This isn’t just a holiday; it’s a journey into the wild, with all the comforts of home, and your beloved pet dogs are very much welcome too.
“It all started when I was out for a walk and bumped into Clive (Sykes) – Clive set up Sykes Cottages in 1991 and developed the company into the leading holiday cottage agency in the UK. With a lifetime’s experience in tourism and self-catering holiday lets, Clive found the Shacks concept particularly interesting. A few weeks later he came down and had a look at our very first cabin. Ever since, we’ve spent many hours discussing the potential of Shacks and all the amazing places we could unlock for holidaymakers around the UK. Soon after, he brought his former business partner from Sykes Cottages Miles Hill on board too which is invaluable to me.”
The portfolio currently includes cabins located in beautiful Llangollen, north Wales and in Tarporley, in Cheshire. The team is currently building the next phase of cabins and their locations will be announced soon. To keep up to date with developments or to book your stay please visit shacks.co.uk
