A glamping site in Powys has been named one of the UK’s favourite small businesses.
By the Wye, based in Hay on Wye, was selected as part of this year’s Nation’s Favourite Business line-up by the Small Business Saturday campaign, which celebrates independent businesses across the UK.
The family-run glamping business, founded in 2020 by Stephen Salter and Dawn Farnworth, offers luxury, sustainable accommodation in six safari tents overlooking the River Wye.
Ms Farnworth said: "To be named one of the Nation’s Favourite Businesses for 2026 is an incredible honour for us.
"We started By the Wye glamping because, on our cycling adventures in Europe, we experienced some unique and wonderful places to stay in nature and decided to bring them home.
"This award from Small Business Saturday is a huge milestone for us and inspires our team to keep pushing the boundaries of sustainable luxury glamping."
Each tent is set within 10 acres of ancient woodland and the business focuses on providing an off-grid experience that combines environmental responsibility with comfort.
OTHER NEWS:
-
Former Newtown nightclub transformed into gym as owner reveals new facility
-
New owners revealed for historic Powys pub that was sold after 40 years in same hands
-
B&M confirms Newtown store opening date after months of speculation
By the Wye was selected in a nationwide search and will be featured during the official countdown to Small Business Saturday, which takes place on December 5.
The campaign, launched in the US by American Express in 2010, aims to support and promote small businesses by encouraging the public to shop locally.
Michelle Ovens CBE, director of Small Business Saturday UK, said: "This year’s Nation Favourite Businesses are a true representation of the UK’s most-loved small businesses.
READ MORE: Treehouse George Clarke enjoyed and three more in Powys
"We know how important small businesses are and the challenges they face, so as we kick off this year’s Small Business Saturday campaign, we’re urging the public to get behind them during the most critical trading quarter of the year."
By the Wye is a member of Mid Wales Tourism, which represents more than 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Meirionnydd.
Dan Edelman, UK Merchant Services general manager at American Express, said: "This year’s Nation’s Favourite Businesses are a brilliant showcase of the UK’s entrepreneurial spirit and we’re delighted to be providing grant funding that will help two of these inspiring businesses invest in their next chapter of growth."
More information about the featured businesses can be found at smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com.
Share