Holborn Hideaways: A family business built through determination and resilience

When Moira Wilkinson-Mudd first approached Invest East Yorkshire’s Business Support Services team, she had a vision to diversify her family farm and create a new tourism business. What followed was a journey that tested her determination, resilience and commitment to making that vision a reality.

Today, Holborn Hideaways is to welcome its first guests, bringing luxury glamping accommodation to Holborn Farm near Barmby Moor and creating a new future for the family business.

The journey to launch the business was far from straightforward. Alongside developing plans for the new venture, Moira was balancing caring responsibilities for her elderly mother and family. She also faced personal challenges including periods of ill health and family bereavement, all while managing severe dyslexia and navigating the complex processes involved in developing a new business.

Working with Invest East Yorkshire Business Support Advisor Stacey Middlewood, Moira received support with business planning, financial forecasting and developing a viable proposal for the farm diversification project. Together they worked through the practical challenges of turning an idea into a functioning business.

What makes Holborn Hideaways particularly special is that it has been a true family effort. Much of the development work has been carried out by Moira’s husband Andy, with the wider family helping bring the project to life. The result is a new luxury glamping destination that creates additional visitor accommodation in a rural area and provides a new source of income for the farm.

The business also allows Moira to work from home while remaining available to support her family’s caring responsibilities – something that was a key consideration when developing the project.

Moira Wilkinson-Mudd, owner of Holborn Hideaways, said:

“We really don’t know what we would have done without the support we’ve received throughout this process. Starting a business while managing everything else life throws at you can be overwhelming, but having somebody there to guide us, answer questions and keep us moving forward made a huge difference.”

“This project has been a genuine family effort and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together. Seeing it finally ready to open makes all the hard work worthwhile.”

If you are looking to grow your business or explore funding and support opportunities, visit:
www.investeastyorkshire.co.uk/business-support

This support was delivered through Invest East Yorkshire Business Support Services programmes designed to help local businesses innovate, invest and grow sustainably across East Yorkshire.