Review of Hendre Farmhouse Orchard Campsite, Monmouthshire
Let’s face it, camping over a bank holiday is not normally heaven. Overcrowded sites, overcrowded facilities and tight pitches are unfortunately often the norm.
Getting a pitch in itself can be stressful, we had left planning our getaway until the last minute, fancied a break under canvas and found ourselves left with only one option showing hook up availability within a reasonable drive from home – and found ourselves quickly booking Hendre Farmhouse Orchard by default.
Needless to say, next time, we’ll be heading there on purpose.
Following the sat nav from Raglan down rural lanes was certainly an experience and we realised that the words ‘Farmhouse Orchard’ really meant we’d be staying on a rural farm. However, nothing on the route gave a clue as to how spectacular the views which awaited us would be. And, on Bank Holiday Friday, we were given our choice of pitches, greeted in a friendly manner and the weather decided to come out in support of what turned out to be our new favourite campsite!
Fellow campers of all ages, from young families, to lone travellers, to mature campers like us were all friendly, the site owners were laid back but friendly enough to check that everyone was happy and had everything they need – and hookups were optional, making pitches suitable for everyone. I mean, it’s almost like if Carlsberg did campsites! And, importantly, our pitch was large enough to accommodate our brand new Outwell Winwood 8, which we recently bought as a replacement for our old poled tent. Most pitches have free firepits and many also have benches for families to enjoy the outdoors.
As the site filled, the space didn’t and even when full by the evening, the site had plenty of space, a lovely atmosphere and stunning views. It is definitely the best site we’ve ever stayed on over bank holiday – and one of the best ‘less commercialised’ sites overall to boot.
The facilities were absolutely immaculate, and as well as the well designed toilet and shower blocks, there was a communal kitchen area with fridge, freezer and ice maker and other kitchen items. Hand wash facilities and hand sanitisers were also well stocked all weekend, with staff making regular checks and you definitely got the feeling that this is a site run by owners who care whether their campers have a good time – and everyone we spoke to was having exactly that,
Now, the one down side could have been the rural location in that there were no pubs or restaurants within walking distance of the site – although our trip to Monmouth was only 15 minutes away, but thankfully we didn’t need to worry because they had thought of this already. The site is home to BB’s burgers, and while it may be only a van, the home made smash burgers are some of the best we’ve ever tasted and – eat your heart out – they also do the most delicious breakfast rolls, all cooked to order and in quiet times, delivered to your tent, as well as great coffee, delicious fresh milkshakes – and free penny sweets on the counter that kids and adults can enjoy all day long!
If you are looking for a site where everyone is pitched close in regimented lines, along with a massive play area, kids entertainment and an on site bar, then this site probably isn’t for you. But if, like us, you want a quiet relaxed site, with simple, great food, beautiful views and caring owners you won’t want to miss Hendre Farmhouse Orchard Campsite. We’re already planning our next visit.
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This is our own independent review, our campsite reviews are not sponsored in any way and we always book through Pitchup.com