Riverside glamping in Mendip Hills AONB

Limestone bluffs, rocky plateaus, and grassy steppes blanket the landscapes of the Mendip Hills, providing plenty of scope for outdoor adventures. Hike beneath towering cliffs in the Cheddar Gorge, explore natural caves, and climb windswept tors for views that stretch as far as Wales. Camping is just as adventurous—pitch your tent at secluded campsites surrounded by nature or enjoy glamping in a bell tent or remote shepherd’s hut. The forests, lakes, and gorges are accessible year-round but bloom with wildflowers in spring and summer. Winter camping and hiking is possible with all-weather gear, although it’s best to leave the tent behind.

97% (420)

Top-rated campgrounds

Limestone bluffs, rocky plateaus, and grassy steppes blanket the landscapes of the Mendip Hills, providing plenty of scope for outdoor adventures. Hike beneath towering cliffs in the Cheddar Gorge, explore natural caves, and climb windswept tors for views that stretch as far as Wales. Camping is just as adventurous—pitch your tent at secluded campsites surrounded by nature or enjoy glamping in a bell tent or remote shepherd’s hut. The forests, lakes, and gorges are accessible year-round but bloom with wildflowers in spring and summer. Winter camping and hiking is possible with all-weather gear, although it’s best to leave the tent behind.

97% (420)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cuddfan - The Hiding Place

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(14)

2 units · Glamping · Crickhowell, Wales

A secluded, riverside bell tent in the heart of The Black Mountains

2. Farrs Meadow

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(141)

31 units · Tents, Glamping · Dorset, South West England

A charming Dorset campsite overlooking the Stour Valley and a short walk from both the river and the market town of Wimborne Minster

3. Baldwins Brook Glamping

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(7)

6 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · England

Small dog-friendly site on the banks of the river Severn Adjacent to the Severn Way and half an hour’s walk from the canal Wildlife haven within walking distance of pubs and Frampton on Severn Craving a peaceful time filled with wildlife watching, long walks and relaxing by the water? On the banks of the River Severn, Baldwin’s Brook Glamping in Gloucestershire fits the bill. This small site is a wildlife haven adjacent to the Severn Way, a long-distance trail which traces the river downstream. Birdwatching prospects are excellent here, and there’s plenty of peace if you’d rather sit and relax by a firepit or check out the stunning views and sunsets. The site is part of a working family farm with lots of livestock. From the farm, it’s a 45-minute walk to Frampton on Severn, which is home to the longest village green in England and the lively Frampton Country Fair (think funfair… and 400 stalls full of good stuff). Baldwin’s Brook Glamping is also half an hour’s walk away from the Cotswold Canal Trust Visitor Centre by The Gloucester and Sharpness Canal if you’d like to grab a spot on a boat trip or sip a coffee by the canal. When you'd rather have a chilled beer, two pubs are within half a mile of the site (only 10 minutes’ walk away). Strike up a conversation with a local about the next Severn Bore, the huge tidal wave which races for 25 miles from Awre to Gloucester down the estuary just a handful of times per year.

4. Stowford Manor Farm Campsite

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51 units · Glamping · Trowbridge, England

We are a family run farm situated in the beautiful Frome valley. The farm has a range of interests from the traditional Jersey milking cows to a community of workshops used by local craftsmen. The cafe serves cream teas from Easter to the end of September and pizzas are sold in evenings during the summer months. Ours is a small family run camp site with the River Frome on one side, next to the medieval buildings of Stowford Farm. The river is suitable for fishing, boating, swimming and paddling. Historic Bradford-on-Avon is only a 5 minute drive and the City of Bath 15 minutes. For those who enjoy more rural pleasures, 200 metres from the campsite Farleigh Hungerford boasts the only river swimming club in the country, and you can become an instant member for a very small fee.

5. Harry's Field New Forest

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63 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Fordingbridge, Hampshire, South East England

Family-friendly, traditional New Forest camping with a pub next door and footpaths leading directly from the gateway

6. Bulstone Springs Devon Eco-Glamping

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(7)

1 unit · Glamping · Devon, South West England

A unique combination of off-grid glamping and spa days in Devon

7. Nordic Glamping at Botswicky

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6 units · Glamping · England

Handcrafted, eco-conscious stays in harmony with nature. Tucked away in a secluded pocket of countryside, Nordic Glamping offers an off-grid retreat designed for those who seek peace, privacy and a gentler pace of life. Our four beautifully handcrafted yurts sit within five acres of unspoilt organic hay meadow—surrounded by ancient woodland, thick hedgerows, a bubbling stream, a weather-led newt pond and charming little bridges. There is a lot to explore! This untouched, undulating landscape is home to thoughtfully designed, eco-friendly facilities: soft composting toilets, hot showers, fresh running water, and a covered kitchen and dining area. Shaded spaces for gathering or unwinding allow you to connect with nature in comfort. Each yurt is carefully dressed with organic cotton or linen bedding atop handcrafted wooden beds—combining rustic charm with deep rest and relaxation. Everything here is off-grid and in rhythm with the land… although a reliable 4G signal is on hand for those absolutely necessary connections ;-) Nordic Glamping shares Botswicky Copse with award-winning organic farmer Helen Browning. Together, we’re committed to working with the land—not against it—ensuring its vitality for generations to come. We’re proud members of the Greener Camping Club, which helps support more sustainable, low-impact camping in the UK. To stay with us, we kindly ask that one person per booking is, or becomes, a member. A seasonal membership is just £12 and supports our shared vision of responsible travel and eco-conscious living. (*Existing members do not need to pay again.)

8. White House Glamping in Wye Valley

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7 units · Glamping · Hereford, Herefordshire, West Midlands

Secluded tipi glamping in the Wye Valley set on a working, riverside, dairy farm

9. Wydale Farm Tipis

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(8)

3 units · Glamping · Weston Super Mare, England

Grown-up glamping in riverside tipis with views of the Mendip Hills

10. Oakhill Ponds

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(13)

8 units · Glamping · Somerset, South West England

A uniquely peaceful Somerset glamping site set around two ponds in its own beautiful wildlife garden.

11. Stargazer Glamping

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(40)

3 units · Glamping · Ross On Wye, England

Luxury bell-tent glamping for couples and families in the serene Wye Valley.

12. Romantic Country Glamping

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(11)

2 units · Glamping · Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, South West England

A pair of self-contained glamping getaways in Wiltshire

13. Wild About Campers

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5 units · Glamping · Stockland, Devon, South West England

Wild About Campers is a peaceful retreat amid spectacular hiking country in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and 25 minutes’ drive from cliff-top treks along the South West Coast Path. The Jurassic Coast at Lyme Regis is within 25 minutes’ drive, and if you feel a major shopping expedition coming on, the historic cathedral city of Exeter (35 minutes) will see you right. Both Exmoor and Dartmoor national parks are less than an hour’s drive away, while the pretty neighbouring town of Honiton (10 minutes) offers pubs and tearooms as well as antique shops to browse. But if it’s a rural retreat you’re after, well, this is the place. The camping paddock is surrounded by peaceful farmland and borders the River Otter (look out for the resident beavers, otters and kingfishers, which occasionally appear), so you can fall asleep lulled by the burble of the river along with the distant hoot of barn owls – and wake up fresh in the morning to the sound of birdsong. A popular family-run pub is five minutes’ stroll from the campsite, and you can pick up emergency supplies from a well-stocked village shop run by volunteers (five minutes’ drive).

14. Feltham’s Farm Cheese Barn

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(8)

1 unit · Glamping · Shepton Mallet, England

Farm stays on a Somerset smallholding with a cheese dairy

15. Cadora Woods Glamping

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(4)

5 units · Glamping · St Briavels, England

Hand-crafted shepherd's huts and yurts overlooking the Wye Valley.

16. Lickham Bottom Camp

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(9)

3 units · Glamping · Taunton, England

Ready-made camping in Devon’s Blackdown Hills

17. Korkhouse

1 unit · Glamping · England

KorkHouse is an off-grid cozy, sustainable tiny house for two, made with eco-friendly cork cladding and a plywood interior. The cabin features it's own outdoor hot tub/bath, private mini island, solar power, a kitchenette, memory foam bed, wood burner, TV, shower, and it is surrounded by restaurants, art galleries and fun things to do even on a rainy day. Located at the crossroads of Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire, it's perfect for creatives seeking inspiration. Near Bruton, Glastonbury, and Frome, with easy access from London. 4 min Taxi & 10 min Bike from Gillingham station. 4min drive & 30 min walk to nearest pub.

18. Tipi Adventure

11 units · Glamping · Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, West Midlands

Tipis in a riverside meadow – all set up for group adventures

19. Nature's Nest

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(5)

7 units · Glamping · Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, West Midlands

Welcome to Nature's Nest! For family and group escapes –the ultimate luxury glamping experience. Nature's Nest boasts 4 beautiful canvas cottages that melt into the glorious Herefordshire countryside. These self-catering glamping accommodations are nestled on a natural spacious site with uninterrupted views over the rolling countryside, and River Wye in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Relax in your own hot tub, cosy by the fire and you can bring your dogs too.

20. Brue Field, Gladwill Farm

1 unit · Glamping · Bruton, England

Reconnect with nature in a peaceful escape away from the hecticness of life. Exclusive to a family group or friends sharing a well equipped field kitchen & dining area in an organic meadow by the River Brue. Wildlife teems in the meadow and the surrounding Stourhead woodlands offering adventures in nature. There are 5 unique living pods with proper beds and creative interiors. A booking includes 2 days use of a natural swimming pond. This is a journey into simple living - not a party venue.

Camper favorites in and near Mendip Hills AONB

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Wild About Campers

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(2)

5 units · Glamping · Stockland, Devon, South West England

Wild About Campers is a peaceful retreat amid spectacular hiking country in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and 25 minutes’ drive from cliff-top treks along the South West Coast Path. The Jurassic Coast at Lyme Regis is within 25 minutes’ drive, and if you feel a major shopping expedition coming on, the historic cathedral city of Exeter (35 minutes) will see you right. Both Exmoor and Dartmoor national parks are less than an hour’s drive away, while the pretty neighbouring town of Honiton (10 minutes) offers pubs and tearooms as well as antique shops to browse. But if it’s a rural retreat you’re after, well, this is the place. The camping paddock is surrounded by peaceful farmland and borders the River Otter (look out for the resident beavers, otters and kingfishers, which occasionally appear), so you can fall asleep lulled by the burble of the river along with the distant hoot of barn owls – and wake up fresh in the morning to the sound of birdsong. A popular family-run pub is five minutes’ stroll from the campsite, and you can pick up emergency supplies from a well-stocked village shop run by volunteers (five minutes’ drive).

Feltham’s Farm Cheese Barn

100%

(8)

1 unit · Glamping · Shepton Mallet, England

Farm stays on a Somerset smallholding with a cheese dairy

Cadora Woods Glamping

100%

(4)

5 units · Glamping · St Briavels, England

Hand-crafted shepherd's huts and yurts overlooking the Wye Valley.

Lickham Bottom Camp

100%

(9)

3 units · Glamping · Taunton, England

Ready-made camping in Devon’s Blackdown Hills

Korkhouse

1 unit · Glamping · England

KorkHouse is an off-grid cozy, sustainable tiny house for two, made with eco-friendly cork cladding and a plywood interior. The cabin features it's own outdoor hot tub/bath, private mini island, solar power, a kitchenette, memory foam bed, wood burner, TV, shower, and it is surrounded by restaurants, art galleries and fun things to do even on a rainy day. Located at the crossroads of Dorset, Somerset, and Wiltshire, it's perfect for creatives seeking inspiration. Near Bruton, Glastonbury, and Frome, with easy access from London. 4 min Taxi & 10 min Bike from Gillingham station. 4min drive & 30 min walk to nearest pub.

Tipi Adventure

11 units · Glamping · Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, West Midlands

Tipis in a riverside meadow – all set up for group adventures

Nature's Nest

100%

(5)

7 units · Glamping · Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, West Midlands

Welcome to Nature's Nest! For family and group escapes –the ultimate luxury glamping experience. Nature's Nest boasts 4 beautiful canvas cottages that melt into the glorious Herefordshire countryside. These self-catering glamping accommodations are nestled on a natural spacious site with uninterrupted views over the rolling countryside, and River Wye in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Relax in your own hot tub, cosy by the fire and you can bring your dogs too.

Brue Field, Gladwill Farm

1 unit · Glamping · Bruton, England

Reconnect with nature in a peaceful escape away from the hecticness of life. Exclusive to a family group or friends sharing a well equipped field kitchen & dining area in an organic meadow by the River Brue. Wildlife teems in the meadow and the surrounding Stourhead woodlands offering adventures in nature. There are 5 unique living pods with proper beds and creative interiors. A booking includes 2 days use of a natural swimming pond. This is a journey into simple living - not a party venue.

Stories from the community

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Savannah

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Nordic Glamping at Botswicky

The Yurt was lovely and well setup. Loved the lights and fire place inside to warm it up when it got cold in the evening. The site had chairs and a fire pit setup with wood available to buy which was great as we didn’t have to try and find some before arriving. Would really recommend!

6m Stargazer Tent + 3m Lotus Belle AirBud

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Karina

September 2025

Group trip

3 nights at Stargazer Glamping

Really happy with our stay for 5. Would definitely recommend a stay here!

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Andy

September 2025

2 nights at Nordic Glamping at Botswicky

Beautiful Yurts - excellent facilities and a peaceful setting. Made for a perfect quick getaway. Hosts were friendly and helpful and made us feel very welcome

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Ashik

September 2025

2 nights at Cuddfan - The Hiding Place

Thanks Mark for the lovely stay! The area is secluded and picturesque, which really gave us the feeling of living a nomadic life with just the basic amenities. A few tips for future visitors: Bring a hanging light or headlamp, as it gets very dark and there’s no lighting provided. There’s a gas stove and cooking area, but you’ll need to bring your own utensils. Pack warm duvets and thick jackets if you’re visiting in autumn, as nights can get very cold. 🚗 Important: Do not drive your car down to the tent. Park just after entering the gate and walk down instead. I missed the host’s message about this, got stuck trying to drive back up, and had to be rescued by a farmer with his tractor (thankfully the host responded quickly and was super helpful!). Despite that little adventure, I absolutely loved the stay and would highly recommend it if you’re looking for a unique experience without the hassle of putting up a tent yourself.

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Angie

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Lickham Bottom Camp

We loved our weekend at Oak Tree Nook. The outdoor kitchen shelter was a wonderful evening hang out with everything we needed and more. In the daytime we explored the woods, spent time in the hammock, sunbathed - bliss. We were cosy in the bell tent at night and although we didn't need the log burner, it was great to have the option. The open air shower was sooooooooo good! We would love to come back!

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Anup

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wild About Campers

We loved staying at tams land. The views are absolutely beautiful as is the sound of nature and wildlife. We stayed in the otter tent which was well equipped for a family of 3 and a dog! Tam is an excellent host, unfortunately due to traffic we arrived late than planned on Friday night however tam was understanding and accommodating anf helped us settle in quickly. On the Saturday night it was a complete wash out and tam offered to let us stay in another one of their lodges as it had a log burner - this was excellent, appreciated and well timed (we'd been on the beach all day and were completely soaked)! We would definitely recommend staying here! Thanks again Tam!

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kelly

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lickham Bottom Camp

Fantastic site and Penny is a great host! We stayed in Bluebell, despite the wet weather we had a wonderful stay. Everything you need is provided, the kitchen is very well equipped, and Penny is on hand for any queries and advice on the local area etc. There is plenty of space and we were not at all disturbed by our neighbouring campers, as the pitches are well spaced. We wouldn’t hesitate to stay again!

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Jenny

August 2025

With pets

2 nights at Wydale Farm Tipis

We had the most wonderful few days Glamping at Sam and Matt’s, there’s nothing you need or want that hasn’t already been thought of and provided with care. We had the absolute pleasure of learning all about Matt’s bees (with fashionable bee suits) and kayaking down the river with our pooch Dudley. Honestly couldn’t recommend this place enough, just perfect to get out of the City and enjoy this hidden oasis of calm.

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Andreja

August 2025

With pets

5 nights at Wydale Farm Tipis

We had the best time glamping! The location is absolutely stunning, and we were lucky enough to have perfect weather, which made it even more special. The tipi tent was cosy and beautifully set up with everything we could possibly need for a comfortable stay. We also loved having our own private bathroom and kitchen – so well equipped and such a lovely touch. Sam and Matt were amazing hosts – warm, welcoming, and always happy to help with anything. We borrowed the kayaks, which was such a fun experience, and my dog happily sat between my legs while we paddled around. There’s also the option to rent paddle boards if you fancy mixing it up. On top of that, Matt has a few bee bays, so you can even enjoy a fascinating bee experience while you’re there – such a unique and memorable activity! It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, and we came away feeling refreshed and happy. We honestly couldn’t recommend this place enough and can’t wait to come back again!

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Teegan

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Lickham Bottom Camp

Me and my family came here for the weekend and wow! We had an absolutely amazing time. The camp site was beautiful, it was fully equipped and Penny was absolutely amazing. She made sure we had everything we needed; she even lugged all of our stuff to the campsite on her quad bike! Could not thank Penny enough. We will be back!

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Rachel

August 2025

1 night at Stowford Manor Farm Campsite

This is a lovely place to stay. The railway carriage was very comfortable and very well laid out, packing a lot of functionality into a cozy space. The grounds are beautiful and quiet. It’s just a short drive to several must see places like Bath and Avebury henge.

Nicole

July 2025

With kids

4 nights at Farrs Meadow

David and Jasper went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and taken care off. The campsite is near town, just a 20 minutes walk along the river. The facilities at the campsite are primitive, but adequate and clean. Loved the hot showers! We stayed in a yurt and that was very comfortable and very well equipped. Our kids (and the other kids at the campsite) spent most of the time in and around the tree with a swing, so nice! They called it the best campsite ever! Hope to come back one day!

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Jayne

July 2025

With pets

3 nights at Wydale Farm Tipis

We stayed in one of Sam and Matt’s three tipis which are set in a peaceful location with a river running by and spectacular views of the countryside and local wildlife. The tipis have plenty of room and the bed was the most comfortable I have ever slept in. The facilities are excellent, a separate building several steps away from each tipi offers a private kitchen and a spotless bathroom with large shower and fluffy towels. The tipis are set back from the farm and fresh eggs from the free range hens and honey from the bees at the farm were given to us on arrival. They were so good that we bought some to take home with us. Also milk, cider and some delicious homemade cake were a great welcoming after our journey. Sam and Matt are excellent hosts, giving great recommendations on places to eat out and walks with our dog. We had a wonderful few days celebrating my husband’s birthday and later, our wedding anniversary. This place is a hidden gem. It offers a warm welcome, great facilities, is dog friendly and in a beautiful location. You don’t need to wait for a special occasion, this place is a real treat and shouldn’t be missed.

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Adam

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Lickham Bottom Camp

We had a fantastic time camping at Lickham Bottom. Penny gave us a warm welcome and even took us and our kit to the pitch on a quad bike! The site had everything we needed, and we also enjoyed some great pizzas from the van in the village. It’s also ideally located for trips to the coast.

Gareth

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Nordic Glamping at Botswicky

Absolutely amazing! Couldn’t have asked for more from Emma and Vidar (hosts) or the accommodation we stayed in (Hazel). Beautiful, clean and tidy site. Equally as pristine sleeping, cooking and toilet/shower facilities too. We stayed one night but will be back for more.

Jo

June 2025

2 nights at Oakhill Ponds

Beautiful location, we loved staying in the Shepherds Hut. Loads of thought has been put into the space, lovely individual garden with seating, hammocks, so nice to eat outside in the sunshine & to be able to use the outdoor hot tub after a swim. The spa was fab & swimming in the pond was tonic for the soul. Amanda & Rob were great hosts, & they have definitely achieved what they have set out to do - provide people with an incredible place to slow down, appreciate nature & reset. Thank you

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Julian

June 2025

With pets

7 nights at Farrs Meadow

We loved it. The meadow is beautiful and during our week in May we awoke to the sound of cookoos every morning - joy. We were in the smaller Yurt which was really warm and comfortable. David was really available and bought us wood for the fire when we needed. Classic camping and a wonderful escape from the city! Thanks David.

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Alice

June 2025

With kids

5 nights at Cuddfan - The Hiding Place

Great location, secluded but close to crickhowell. Amazing bird song. Nice river. Loved the ease of camping we without putting up a tent. We stayed in the wild camp bell tent.

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Rebecca

May 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wild About Campers

The campsite is gorgeous, along the river in a little secluded valley surrounded by trees with countryside views. The kitchen is perfectly equipped and the hot shower is a great amenity. The beds are comfy and the tents are nicely furnished.

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Fabiano

May 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Nordic Glamping at Botswicky

Beautiful place, very friendly and helpful hosts. Lovely little village nearby (walking distance) and loads of nature to enjoy. 5 stars. Will come back for sure!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Riverside glamping in Mendip Hills AONB guide

Where to go

Cheddar and Around

Jagged cliffs and rocky ravines carve out the Cheddar Gorge, where explorers can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and caving. After taking in the AONB’s star attraction, hike up Black Down Hill for a view from the region’s highest point or cycle the scenic Strawberry Line. Don’t miss a visit to the town of Cheddar to sample Somerset’s famous cheese and cider.

Northeast Somerset & the Lakes

Sweeping gorges give way to forested valleys and lowland lakes in the northern part of the Mendip Hills. Enjoy nature walks, bird-watching, and lakeside picnics at the Chew Valley or Blagdon Lakes, or escape the crowds at a peaceful country campsite. To the north, the UNESCO city of Bath and the Cotswolds AONB are within day-trip distance.

South Mendip Hills

Hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails traverse the southern stretch of the Mendip Hills. Adrenaline seekers should head to the Wookey Hole caves, where caving excursions incorporate abseils and Via Ferrata climbs. A short drive south, Glastonbury turns into a hippy haven each summer during the massive Glastonbury music festival, and the nearby Glastonbury Tor is both a historic landmark and a popular viewpoint.

West Mendip and the Somerset Coast

Winscombe is the gateway to the west Mendip Hills, home to some of the area’s lesser-explored hiking trails. Continue west to the coast, where sandy beaches, cliff-top walks, and lively seaside towns dot the shores of the Bristol Channel. Weston-Super-Mare, Burnham-On-Sea, and Clevedon are Somerset’s flagship beach resorts, where summer campers have a choice of seafront camping grounds.