Mendip Basecamp, nestled in Somerset’s scenic Mendip Hills, has earned Silver in the prestigious Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year category at the 2025 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. This off-grid adventure destination has quickly become a favourite for families and holidaymakers seeking rustic outdoor fun.
Originally founded as a school activity camp, Mendip Basecamp has evolved post-Covid into a versatile 250-acre playground featuring more than 20 thrilling outdoor activities. Guests can engage in skiing, tobogganing, frisbee golf, rock climbing, abseiling, caving, archery, snowboarding, air rifle shooting, Nerf battles, and axe throwing — making it a hub for adventurous souls of all ages.
Despite these modern attractions, the park prides itself on preserving its authentic charm. “Basecamp will always be a special place for families to disconnect and spend quality time in nature,” the team affirms.
READ MORE: Glastonbury Festival’s Massive Site Rivals the Size of a British Town
READ MORE: Demand for Clear End Date as Disruptive Bridgwater Roadworks Continue
The adventure continues beyond land with a nearby water sports centre offering canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Little visitors have their own fun in the indoor toddler play zone and a giant sandpit right on site. On Saturdays, families enjoy live music, adding to the vibrant communal spirit.
The awards ceremony, hosted at Brighton Dome Corn Exchange by VisitEngland Advisory Board Chairman Lady Victoria Borwick, celebrated excellence in tourism across 17 categories. VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes highlighted the diversity and high standard of the industry, praising Mendip Basecamp as a shining example of quality and innovation.
Marketing manager George Combe expressed gratitude, noting the award was a tribute to the team’s dedication and the stunning Mendip Hills landscape: “We’re proud to share this hidden Somerset treasure with our guests.”
Managing director David Eddins reflected on Mendip Basecamp’s origins during lockdown, emphasizing its mission to inspire adventure and reconnect people with nature. He stated, “This recognition shows we’re on the right path — and we’re just getting started.”
The camping season runs from May 17 to September 7. Visitors can choose from tent pitches, campervan spots, bell tents, safari-style ‘glamphouse’ tents, and lodge bunk rooms, all priced from £10 per adult. While many activities come with an additional fee, the site also offers free options like the giant sandpit and toddler play zone, ensuring accessible fun for all.
Mendip Basecamp stands as a testament to the appeal of off-grid, family-friendly adventure holidays set amidst England’s beautiful natural landscapes.