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Little Brimley -a small friendly eco camp-site

Drawing of campsite

A few weeks ago I discovered the most wonderful campsite nestling on the Somerset-Devon border at Appeley, west of Wellington and about a 5 mile ride from Tiverton Parkway Railway Station.

The campsite is situated in a quiet and secluded field, surrounded by mature hedges and trees and bordered by a stream, There are compost loos and a central camp fire with benches around it. Walkers and cyclists are actively encouraged and a lock-up store for bicycles is available. Cars are parked well away from the site. The use of mobile phones and the eating of fish and meat on the site are discouraged.

Having the National Cycle Network Route 3 and the West Deane Way on the doorstep provides additional appeal for cyclists. I chose to cycle from Castle Cary Station (on the Bristol to Weymouth line) and spent a glorious day cycling across the Somerset levels enjoying the quiet lanes and byeways of west Somerset.

For nature lovers, the secluded site is brimming with wildlife including owls and buzzards and many species of plant.

Drawing of campsite

The cost per person per night is £3.50, but with concessions for those on a low income. It is essential to book in advance. Jan Copley, the site owner has many exciting plans to develop the campsite as part of a co-operative venture, Group bookings can be made, which give exclusive use of the site - this might be an ideal spot for a BCC camping weekend next year.

If in the meantime, you feel the urge to experience some real camping this year before the cold weather kicks in, then I would highly recommend a visit to this delightful and peaceful place.

Jan's telephone number is 01823 672880.

Simon Carpenter