Poised in the Shropshire countryside, a few hundred yards from the Welsh border, Underhill Farm is a wonderfully unique campsite with a clear ethos and a warm community feel. Snazzy, gadget laden glampers looking for sumptuously furnished yurts are not the focus here. It's those hoping to learn about and enjoy the natural environment that feel most at ease in the green meadow clearings. In the main paddock, enclosed by tall old trees, there is ample space for up to five tents to pitch. Nearby, a wooden bridge leads to the communal fire pit, allowing campers to share stories in the evening as they toast a sticky marshmallow or two. Those travelling light can forego the tent in favour of other options; an authentic Mongolian yurt, a larger Welsh yurt and a traditional canvas tepee (all with beds, rugs and a simple set of shelves). All come accompanied by a shared kitchen area with all the basics for preparing and cooking some camping cuisine.
Once you’ve settled in you can begin to take in the rest of the site; an eclectic mix of functional spaces and natural pockets of wilderness. Traditional wild grass meadows are interspersed with a wooded copse, bendy basket willows and a small apple orchard, while a converted barn space provides somewhere to hideaway in bad weather as well as an area for organised workshops to take place. Needless to say, these activities make use of materials on the doorstep, whether its willow weaving, pottery or wool and looming workshops. Such events echo the site's sustainability and ecological focus, while its position next to a nature reserve only helps encourage the rich wildlife that has flourished here. Don’t be surprised to find rare breed, pyramidal orchards or see the swooping wingspan of buzzards and peregrines overhead.
The Evison’s aren't kidding when they say there is plenty here to explore. But when you leave your pond-side pitch and head elsewhere you’ll also find more than enough to keep you occupied. Limestone cliffs, excellent for climbing and caving, are a short walk in one direction, while in the other the Montgomery Canal stretches into the countryside, ideal for those with bikes. Then there’s Offa’s Dyke, Llanymynech Golf Club and canoeing on the River Vyrnwy – all before you’ve even returned to the car.
Right on the England/Wales border, Underhill Farm has a lot to do on the doorstep. Neighbouring limestone cliffs have climbing and caving, with the famous Offa's Dyke (01547 528753) footpath running past. The Montgomery Canal stretches into the countryside and makes for a pleasant walk or bike ride, heading down towards the River Vyrnwy which runs across the border into Wales. Canoeing on the river is popular, while those happier on dry land can enjoy golf at local Llanymynech Golf Club (01691 830983). Elsewhere, taking a car to Shrewsbury is a popular choice, the historic town tucked within a tight meander of the River Severn (another place for watersports (01743 365022)). From here the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (01588 674080) spreads south, with the beautiful Stiperstones and excellent trails for walking and mountain biking.
The Cross Guns Inn (01691 839631) is within walking distance in Pant, while the next local village of Llanymynech has 3 pubs: The Dolphin Inn (01691 839672), Cross Keys (01691 831585) and The Bradford Arms Hotel (01691 830582). There is also a decent Inidan restaurant (01691 830170) and takeaway.