Surfing Cow Farm

camping escape for three adults and left early instead. The listing gave the impression of being able to pitch more freely and enjoy a genuine wild camping experience, but this was about as far from “wild” camping as you could possibly get. We arrived prepared to carry our gear away from others, only to find what looked like open lakeside options and checked with the owner before setting up. We were told, in a very rude and dismissive way, that we were in the wrong place and redirected to a small grassy area just inside the entrance. Things got worse from there. Although we had booked and paid for three adults, we were then challenged about what we had paid for and told the site worked on a per-tent basis rather than per person. The conversation was unnecessarily confrontational from the outset, and the owner’s attitude was consistently rude throughout. We moved our setup multiple times to accommodate requests despite being the only campers on site. The toilet was disgusting, with smeared dried faeces under the toilet seat and a sliver of mushy brown soap to wash your hands. The most uncomfortable part was the feeling of being constantly monitored. The owner repeatedly came to inspect the camp, returned while we were away and appeared to be going through or closely inspecting our belongings, and later drove past repeatedly at night shining a torch towards our camp. Any sense of relaxation or privacy disappeared. The final straw came the following morning when we were confronted again with a demand for additional cash despite complying with previous instructions. When we questioned it, we were told multiple times to “just f*** off”. We packed up and left. This wasn’t remotely the peaceful escape we’d booked. I can cope with strict site rules; I can’t overlook hostility, invasions of privacy, disgusting facilities, and being made to feel unwelcome throughout the stay. Would not return.

· via Google

We have just stayed here for two nights and there are various pros and cons. We had a lovely time and would visit again. However I don’t think it’s for everyone, it is advertised as wild camping so if you are booking here expecting 5* toilets/facilities you are booking the wrong place. It was perfect for what we expected. Pros: - dog friendly, just make sure to keep them on a lead - stunning campsite with a lake and kayaks you can use for free, it really is beautiful - very quiet & peaceful compared to other nearby campsites - we met the owner on our first night and he was great! Super friendly and helpful - if you book a lake side pitch you are literally on the edge of the beautiful lake which is so rare to find - the stars and nature are impressive (there is 0 light pollution) - closeness to beaches Cons: - It can be tricky to find if you don’t do your research beforehand, could possibly do with a few signs. I would highly recommend not arriving at night and checking on Google maps first, don’t just pop in the postcode as you will get lost. Use these coordinates (50.3290090, -3.9712696) - signage for facilities. We found it tricky finding things like toilets and drinking water, this could be a added benefit One thing just to be aware of is the lanes down to the campsite are very narrow. We have done a lot of driving down in Devon and Cornwall but these are some of the smallest we have experienced. If you have anything bigger than a SUV you may struggle, you could get through but be prepared for some scratched paintwork. Overall a great stay for us.

· via Google

Couldn’t recommend enough. We were left to our own devices completely, able to play music quietly in the evenings round of a fire. Even had a little spot to cook under when it rained as well as a hot shower and toilets. The site itself is so tranquil, bats flying around in the evening, a lake to swim in and big pitches so no overcrowding. Meet Mike as we were leaving, seems like a really lovely guy and you could tell he’d put a lot of effort into creating somewhere so peaceful. Also thank you to the lovely north London chap who worked there and helped us get wood.

· via Google

The lake is lovely, with carp and swans, however that was about it. We arrived late (around 8 or 9 PM) in fairness, and there was nobody around. The only person who was around seemed to be a farm worker, who wanted nothing to do with us. We couldn't find the toilets in the dark, even with our head torches. So just went to bed and hoped things would improve by morning. We went for a wander around the grounds in the morning, still couldn't see any signage for toilets or showers. Luckily, just as some people were packing down their tent, we asked them and they told us where to go. Only to find 1 shower and 2 toilets, very basic. There was no signage for the washing up, happened to see a sink covered in cobwebs with sponges covered in snail trails and opted for that. With nobody else around, instead of the place feeling surreal to have the lake to ourselves, it felt eerie. We didn't feel comfortable, weren't impressed with the basic facilities that didn't seem to be maintained at all, and opted to leave after 1 night.

· via Google