Mendip Basecamp

As the name suggests, Mendip Basecamp is the ideal base for adventurous campers looking to explore the Mendip Hills. But, to be honest, it’s also a real attraction in its own right. The campsite is so full of activities that you may never want to leave and when they recently opened their doors to the general public, after years reserved for private scout and school groups, they were overwhelmed by the response. Previously an adventure centre, Basecamp is now also being appreciated for its space, freedom and natural beauty too. And, with over twenty different activities to choose from, it’s guaranteed to be a worthy match for even the most energetic of kids.

Located in the north of the Mendip Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty just south of Bristol, the spacious campsite is surrounded by ancient woodland on almost all four sides. The style is pleasantly relaxed; there are no specified pitches, just choose a place to pop your tent and settle in (the field is massive, so there are loads of options). The open, relatively flat space is wonderfully sociable in the hight of summer, with kids making friends and parents relaxing by their tents, and the high surrounding trees give good shelter from the cool night breezes of summer. Campfires are allowed, too; their hazy smoke adding the essential scent of camping to the scene.

A short walk from camp, through a beautiful illuminated woodland path, you’ll find the main lodge where there’s a pop-up tavern, serving local ales and ciders, cooked breakfasts, pizzas and more. There’s also a small shop onsite for BBQ essentials and ice lollys. Then, of course, there’s the activity centre: A stay at Basecamp gives you access to a huge range of activities, like rock climbing, dry-slope skiing, canoeing and caving, to name but a few. Instructors are friendly and fully trained and cater to all ages and levels, from experienced rock climbers to those who’d struggle to climb the stairs.

The campsite is handy for those that live in Bristol, but also good for ‘outsiders’ who fancy popping into the city for a day trip. 25 minutes in the car will allow you to walk over Clifton Suspension Bridge, followed by drinks at The White Lion, or explore the quirky bars and restaurants of Gloucester Road. The Somerset coast around Weston-Super-Mare, meanwhile, is also eminently reachable from camp. Though it makes the perfect base for campers wishing to explore, however, with all the options the site has to offer, you may never find yourself getting beyond basecamp at all.