Following it’s 2005 appearance in the television series Seven Natural Wonders, the craggy cliffs and dazzling caves of Cheddar Gorge were voted the second greatest natural wonder in the UK, and it doesn’t take an expert to see why. As you follow the windy riverbed road along the former route of the Cheddar Yeo, steep green slopes carve ever deeper before you and one can’t help but wonder how it looked with water thundering through. In fact, the river does still flow, now far beneath the surface, and its handy work has continued below ground, carving out spectacular caves and narrow limestone tunnels. It’s not until you reach the village itself that the water reappears, slithering away from the beautiful Mendip Hills. It is here, on the doorsteps of Cheddar Village, that Petruth Paddocks can be found and its open grassy meadows beckon any would-be camper inside.
Down a track to the wooden gateway, campers, glampers and caravan towers alike arrive directly into a large open field, fronted by a small white reception tent and a pair of picnic benches. After a chat with easy-going Jules, the site becomes your own and it’s entirely up to you where you pitch. Chose from the plentiful space before you, with two pre-pitched tipis at the rear of the field, or head through a gate into the next-door meadow, aptly described as the ‘chill-out field’. At its centre, a dilapidated landrover has become every child’s playground, saddling up in the drivers seat or clambering on the bonnet, while to one side a horse paddock nudges the edge of the campsite, another distraction for playful children.
The relaxed, pitch-where-you-like, attitude continues through the rest of the site, which rightfully prides itself on a laid back philosophy and welcoming atmosphere for all. Music is welcome, balls can be kicked around, and campfires are very much encouraged, with a quad bike humming around the site each evening offering more firewood and kindling to those in need. Don’t be surprised when the trailer comes past with as many children as logs on the back – the quad is a popular ride with the little ones!
In the centre of the site, by the gate between the different fields, simple sanitary facilities are provided. Hot showers are housed in spacious cabins, so there’s plenty of space to hang your clothes, with an adjacent toilet block on one side and washing up sinks on the other. There are also a number of drinking water taps dotted around the site.
From your pitch head by foot, bike or car into the surrounding area, stopping at reception to grab some info and brochures. By foot, it is Cheddar that beckons, with a collection of good eateries and the gateway back into the gorge. Those on two wheels should follow the Strawberry Line, an excellent cycle route that starts within meters of the campsite. Taking the car offers plenty to see and do, whether it be historic Wells' magnificent cathedral, Glastonbury Tor or the beautiful beaches of northern Somerset.
These spacious pitches are flexible according to your needs.
There are hot showers in spacious cabins and toilets located in the main field.
Drinking water is available from numerous taps throughout the campsite.
Dogs are welcome with an additional charge of £3 (you can book these from the extras menu).
Campfires are encouraged and fire pits hired for £2 per night, logs purchased for £6, kindling for £2 and £1 for paper and fire-lighters.
Please do not bring your own firewood as we need to know what's being burnt.
If you wish to venture from the campsite and visit Cheddar Village or Cheddar Gorge be sure to pick up a brochure at the reception.