A few hundred metres from a National Trust nature reserve and on the edge of a vast woodland, Clayford Field is both a hidden gem and a rambler’s dream. Footpaths lead north on to Holt Heath, home to rare plant species and reptiles, or south in to Uddens Plantation and through the trees to the Forest Inn pub. Friendly, laid back and with few frills, it's the ideal campsite for exploring Dorset away from the more crowded coastal campsites.
Despite its low-key location, Clayford Field is secured behind electric gates and campers are given an access code for contactless entry, so you can simply arrive, thumb your way in and find a spot in the six-acre field that's right for you. Choose between sunny pitches on the right-hand side of the meadow or shady spots under the oak trees to set up your tents or park your campervan. Though the site isn’t huge, even when it’s fully booked on the hottest bank holiday of the summer, there's still plenty of room between pitches and there’s always space for games. As the dark skies set in, you’ll see the benefits of being surrounded by so many trees, with minimal light pollution, there's superb stargazing (and bat watching) to be had before bed.
Clayford is a pop-up, summer-only campsite so the facilities are all temporary. Washblocks are in cabins on the edge of the meadow (one for the ladies, one for the gents) and there's an additional drinking water tap in the field but, for the most part, it's a simple campsite that's about space and freedom. Campfires are allowed. Bring your bikes, meanwhile, and it's less than half a mile down the track until you reach the Castleman Trailway cycle route (number 256 on the Sustrans National Cycle Network), that takes you west through the Stour Valley to Wimborne Minster or east towards the New Forest National Park. The initial part is a 17-mile stretch of disused railway line that makes for flat, easy riding that's great for families. By car, meanwhile, it's a half-hour drive to Bournemouth beach and 45 minutes to the Isle of Purbeck and the best of the Jurassic Coast.
Located in the hamlet of Clayford and surrounded by 1500 acres of forest and heathland & accessed from a bridleway, you will feel very remote yet only a short walk or drive from the picturesque town of Wimborne or Ferndown. Pick your own grass pitch, roughly 10x20 metres. on our large 6 acre field.
Once set up the local dog friendly pub is a short stroll or ride through the forest. we are located on the castleman trailway which is a 16.5 mile long stretch of gravelled walking and cycling route along the old railway, linking Ringwood to Poole and Dorchester. all vehicle free.
We allow fires but don't forget, you must bring a fire pit to keep it off the ground. or half barrel firepits are available to rent*.(unless a temporary ban is in place).
We have hot showers in the morning and flushing toilets.