Through the Wiltshire Rural Hubs programme—funded by Wiltshire Council via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund—rural communities are being empowered to thrive through tailored business support, strategic guidance, and a strong emphasis on community connection.
The Rural Hubs Effect: Cultivating Community and Commerce
The Rural Hubs initiative is more than just a business support programme. It’s a catalyst for transformation in Wiltshire’s villages and market towns. By offering workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and access to grants, the programme has helped local enterprises—from farm shops to social enterprises—build resilience, embrace innovation, and deepen their community roots .
Wiltshire Wild Sauna: A Story of Healing, Hope, and Heat
Among the most inspiring success stories is Wiltshire Wild Sauna, founded by sisters-in-law Laura and Zoë Rawlings. What began as a dream during Laura’s battle with cancer became a reality in mid-2024, when the duo transformed a corner of Zoë’s campsite into a serene, off-grid sauna retreat.
Their authentic Finnish wood-burning sauna and cold plunge pool quickly became a local favourite, offering not just wellness benefits but also a sense of community. The venture has already welcomed hundreds of guests and earned national recognition, including a spot on the Small Biz 100 list and an invitation to the House of Lords.
Their story is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the kind of grassroots support that the Rural Hubs programme champions.
Nook & Huddle: Redefining Work-Life Balance in Malmesbury
Another standout is Nook & Huddle, a flexible co-working space founded by serial entrepreneur Sara Harrod. Located on Malmesbury’s High Street, the space offers hot desks, soft seating, semi-private pods, and a welcoming atmosphere for freelancers, small businesses, and community groups.
Backed by a £12,000 grant from the Fit for the Future programme—part of the Rural Hubs ecosystem—Sara’s vision was to create a “home office away from home” that fosters collaboration and creativity. The space is already being embraced by the local community for everything from business meetings to student study sessions.
The success of Wiltshire Wild Sauna and Nook & Huddle illustrates the profound impact of investing in rural entrepreneurship. These ventures are not just businesses—they are community hubs, wellness sanctuaries, and symbols of what’s possible when local vision meets strategic support.
As Wiltshire continues to nurture its rural innovators, the Rural Hubs programme stands as a model for how targeted, community-focused initiatives can spark lasting change.