Batcombe Vale Campsite

Alan Rogers Review of Batcombe Vale Campsite

This is a special place, set in a secluded valley with fields gently rising around it, contented cows grazing with watchful buzzards cruising above and views across the distant hills. Descending slowly down the steep, narrow drive, you see the pitches, attractively set and terraced where necessary, in an oval with the lakes below. The grass is left natural around the 32 pitches (20 have 10A electricity), and paths are mown where needed.

Batcombe Vale House is an attractive, mellow building covered with wisteria to one side of the valley overlooking the lakes and the wilder landscape. Trees and shrubs have been skilfully placed to enhance the natural environment, providing a range of colours and shapes. Winner of the recent Chanel 4 TV programme “The Perfect Pitch”.

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, there are 120 acres around the valley where you are welcome to wander and picnic in the fields – a haven for wildflowers, birds and butterflies. Two lakes have carp and tench up to 18 lbs for those who fish, but you must have a current licence. If you tire of the views and the fishing, there is a range of circular walks from the site, or you can potter about in one of the four free rowing boats. There are many places to visit nearby, from Glastonbury with the Tor to Cheddar Gorge and the Caves.

Facilities at Batcombe Vale Campsite

The small rustic toilet block covered in honeysuckle contains wash basins, washing up sinks and showers with hot water, together with toilets, a chemical disposal unit and tourist information, all well-lit after dark. Freezer (ice packs only). Dishwashing sinks. Launderette. Groundsheets in awnings must be lifted each day. Water, drainage and rubbish points are scattered around the site. Fishing. Rowing boats. Caravan storage. B&B in Batcombe Vale House. Max. 1 dog (unless by prior arrangement). There are three good pubs within 3 miles of the site, all offering excellent food and ale. Pets welcome. The earliest arrival time is 14:00. No children’s play area or motorhome service point.

• Bar Nearby
• Fishing on Site
• Golf Nearby
• Shop Nearby
• Small Site
• Takeaway Food
• Vehicle Storage

Directions to Batcombe Vale Campsite

Bruton is south of Shepton Mallet and Frome and north of Wincanton where the A359 intersects the B3081. Access to the site must be via Evercreech or Bruton (B3081), then follow the brown and white camping signs. Access drive is steep.