The Bothy Teas Case Study

Nestled in Kathryn’s Hertfordshire garden, The Bothy Teas is a unique hidden gem where guests can enjoy afternoon tea with a Scottish twist in a Scandinavian inspired BBQ cabin.

During the week, Kathryn is an actor on stage and screen, but from Friday to Sunday, her creativity extends to providing private afternoon tea experiences in her beautiful BBQ cabin.
The BBQ hut was originally for personal use, but she started her business in 2019, just before the pandemic. Thankfully, after businesses could re-open, news of her business spread and has been successful ever since- “my cabin is 14 years old this year but is still fabulous.” 

Exterior of a BBQ log cabin that has been painted a light grey. The cabin is surrounded by woodland and there are colourful paper lanterns hanging from the tree in the foreground.
An afternoon tea spread inside a BBQ cabin. There are candles lit in the fire pit to provide soft, cosy lighting.
Exterior of a BBQ log cabin that has been painted a light grey. The cabin is surrounded by tall trees and there are colourful paper lanterns hanging from the tree in front of the cabin.
The Business:

A Scandinavian inspired BBQ cabin is a magical thing to see by itself, but when combined with the perfect surroundings, it becomes a beautiful hideaway, straight out of a cosy fantasy book. “I have a pretty magical woodland garden which is the perfect spot for my 10 meter cabin.” explains Kathryn “I really don't think there is another afternoon tea spot that is as unique and as much fun as The Bothy Teas.”

From cosy winter afternoon teas by the fire, to candlelit tea & cake in summer, Kathryn puts lots of thought and care into the customer experience and loves having a chance to get the seasonal decorations out! “The cabin is a totally unique venue which really does take one's breath away. We're even more fun at Halloween and Christmas when the decorations go up.” We love seeing photos of the cabin throughout the seasons on The Bothy Teas Facebook page and reading about guests’ experience in the cabin!

The Cabin:

A Scandinavian inspired BBQ cabin is a magical thing to see by itself, but when combined with the perfect surroundings, it becomes a beautiful hideaway, straight out of a cosy fantasy book. “I have a pretty magical woodland garden which is the perfect spot for my 10 meter cabin.” explains Kathryn “I really don't think there is another afternoon tea spot that is as unique and as much fun as The Bothy Teas.”

Regarding her experience with the installation of the BBQ cabin and dealing with the team; “as I remember all went very well with installation, no problem”. “About 8 years in two of the overhanging eaves needed replacing. The lads turned up, did the job, all good and absolutely no questions asked. The service was excellent.” It’s great to see Kathryn’s cabin standing strong after 14 years!
“I always tell people how great the company is when they ask about the cabin, which happens rather a lot!”

The Impact:

Whilst guests are making memories enjoying their afternoon tea with a twist, Kathryn has found guests' stories and celebrations to be a wonderful thing for her to experience too. “One of my favourite afternoons was when a 96 year old fabulous lady came for tea with her daughter, granddaughter and great granddaughter. Four generations”!

Running a small business is all about those precious moments that keep you going and remind you that all the work is worth it! “My lovely guests return year after year bringing new groups of people. They love it.”

“Simply put, I wouldn't have a business if I didn't have my cabin, it has become essential to my life.”

“To do any other job doesn't sit well when you're used to being creative. The Arctic Cabin was such an amazing pallet on which to create The Bothy Teas. It's all an extension of my personal creativity.”

It’s wonderful to hear about Kathryn’s journey with her business and how it helps her express her creative side for others to enjoy!
Be sure to check out The Bothy Teas if you are interested in learning more about experiencing a private afternoon tea with a Scottish twist in a BBQ cabin!

If your business is looking to provide luxury accommodation, or upgrade your guest facilities and experiences, take a look at our glamping cabins, BBQ cabins and saunas. You can also contact our team to chat about how we can help you with your next project.