By Michael
Our recent getaway to Ashurst Campsite in one of their cosy new Bell Tents was just the reset we were after.
We arrived late Friday afternoon and were warmly welcomed by the friendly staff at reception. The check-in process was easy, and they gave us some great local tips. Ashurst is a shared campsite, so you’ll see fellow campers with their own tents and setups, but the Bell Tent has its own dedicated area, looking out onto the open forest, it felt very peaceful.
The Bell Tent itself was spacious and well laid out, with two futons that collapse into beds, making it a great option for families with children as well. It was set up beautifully and came fully equipped with everything we needed: cutlery, plates, bowls, cups, plastic glasses, a washing-up bowl, and even BBQ utensils. We brought our own bedding: duvet, sheets, and pillows as they’re not supplied, but that was no trouble at all. It made it feel even more like our own little retreat, a home-away-from-home.
Outside, the Bell Tent we had a private picnic bench, which was perfect for evening dinners and a long game of Monopoly (which we brought along and got surprisingly competitive over!)
The facilities on site were excellent – clean toilets, warm showers, and well-maintained all around. The staff were genuinely lovely, always happy to help and quick with a friendly chat or recommendation.
We visited Ferndene Farm Shop, a brilliant butcher in New Milton, and picked up everything we needed for a BBQ. Cooking dinner while ponies wandered past in the distance is something we won’t forget anytime soon.
In the evening, we took a short five-minute walk from the campsite, climbed over the stile, and arrived at the New Forest Pub. It has a huge garden and a play area for kids, great for families. As campsite guests, we received 10% off our food and drinks, which was a lovely added perk.
In the morning, after a comfortable and peaceful night’s rest, we grabbed a takeaway coffee from reception and drove into nearby Lyndhurst. It’s a lovely, quaint village filled with independent shops. We had breakfast at The Forge, which was absolutely delicious, a perfect way to round off our stay in the New Forest National Park.
If you’re looking for a quiet, well-equipped glamping experience in the heart of the New Forest, with a bit of extra comfort – the Bell Tents at Ashurst are a fantastic option. We’ll definitely be back!
