Glamping and Camping FAQS
What kind of site is Top of the Woods?
At Top of the Woods, we offer a low-volume, nature-led eco-luxury camping and glamping experience that’s entirely car-free, giving you a peaceful, unspoiled connection to nature.
We provide a luxury of space and true back-to-nature experiences with our meadow camping and eco-chic glamping options. Choose from three types of luxurious accommodations, all celebrated by The Guardian, The Times, Time Out, and The Independent. Immerse yourself in comfort with our Eco Luxury Safari Lodges, enjoy panoramic views in our Nature Domes, or embark on a unique adventure with our Pioneer Camps, perfect for those seeking a luxury camping experience with a passion for adventure. We have our low volume camping pitches for those who bring their own tents and nature based fully-inclusive holidays for those who only have weekend to getaway into the great outdoors.
We are in an excellent location, secluded and nestled beside 325 acres of enchanting Welsh woodland, with nature treks, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Pembrokeshire National Coast Park enjoyed from every camping meadow. Blue flag beaches, such as Poppit Sands (a nature reserve with sand dunes) and MWNT, a National Trust beach ideal for dolphin spotting, are just a 15-20 minute drive away. You can also explore the nearby historical and vibrant market towns of Cardigan, Narberth and Newcastle Emlyn, both full of independent shops and local charm. For perfect day trips, St David's, the smallest city in the UK, and Tenby are a short drive away, offering cathedrals, castles, and unique independent shopping experiences.
What truly sets us apart from other campsites is that we don’t just offer accommodation—we host our guests, ensuring a warm, personal experience from the moment you arrive, to make sure you have the best holiday stay with us. Our dedication to exceptional hospitality has earned us the Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award for three consecutive years, placing us in the top 10% of guest experiences for hotel accommodation worldwide.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our near off-grid site utilises renewable energies and recycling initiatives, and we have planted over 4,000 native trees to create new woodlands, hedgerows, and species-rich grassland meadows for wildlife to thrive in. We invite our guests to explore the beauty of the surrounding nature while enjoying a low-impact experience. At Top of the Woods, we strive to foster a deep connection with nature and encourage a life-time appreciation for the great outdoors.
We pride ourselves on being an inclusive, welcoming space for anyone who appreciates nature, outdoor adventure, and a respectful approach to the environment. Our accommodations are dog-friendly and with 325 acres of stunning woodland to explore from the campsite, it's a paradise for your four-legged friends—just remember to keep them on a lead on the campsite.
Whether you’re a solo traveller, a family, a group of friends, or a business owner seeking a Green Office Retreat for your company, we encourage guests to unwind and connect with others at our shared spaces like the Dutch barn, The Woodshed, Soos Shed, where you can enjoy communal meals, games, or simply plan the next day's adventure.
Our site creates a natural hub for socialising, whether you're enjoying a meal, checking your Wi-Fi, or simply chilling after a day of exploration. It's a place where you can relax and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature, others and your sense of adventure.
How do I get to Top of the Woods?
Where is Top of the Woods?
We are next to the Pembrokeshire National Coast Park in West Wales. The closest towns are Cardigan & Newcastle Emlyn.
Our full address is Top of the Woods, Penrallt, Capel Colman Road, Boncath, SA370EP
How do I get to Top of the Woods by car?
Either Type into Google Maps - "Top of the Woods Campsite" or use what.3.words //pass.chuckling.underline
If you use the postcode you will still be a mile away from the campsite and you will need to follow these instructions to get to us.
How do I get to Top of the Woods by train?
The closest train stations to us are Carmarthen and Clunderwen, both approximately 35 minutes away.
Some train services to and from Carmarthen offer direct routes from the southeast, including London, Reading, Bristol, Cardiff, and Swansea. If you're traveling from Birmingham, you will generally need to take a train to Cardiff first and then change trains to reach Carmarthen.
Once you know your estimated arrival time, be sure to call ahead and book one of the local taxi companies to pick you up and bring you to the campsite. Since the train stations are in rural areas, taxis are not usually waiting outside.
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Home James Facebook page or 01239 612190
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Cardi Cabs - 01239621399
Cars & Vehicles at Top of the Woods.
Do you have electric car charging points?
Yes, we have two 7kW electric car charging points for guests.
These use Type 2 to Type 2 cables. If your car has a different connection, you'll need to bring your own cable.
Is the campsite car-free, and how can I move my luggage without a car?
Top of the Woods is a car-free site, with a separate parking area. Wheelbarrows are provided to transport your luggage to your accommodation. If mobility assistance is needed, contact us in advance to arrange help from our camp hosts.
Do you take campervans, motorhomes or caravans?
Do you take campervans, motorhomes or caravans? The Friends, Power & Park up grass pitches are suitable for cars & light campervans.
Unfortunately, we are NOT able to take motorhomes or caravans. The grass pitch & access to the campsite is not suitable for these kinds of vehicles and we do not have provisions to manage chemical waste.
Does the campsite take trailer tents?
Yes if the trailer tent can be walked down by hand to the camping meadow.
Or you can book the Friends, Power & Park up grass pitches which is suitable for light vehicles
Can I bring a roof tent?
Yes, you will need to book The Friends, Power & Park Up grass pitches (there is two and is suitable for light vehicles.
What facilities are at Top of the Woods?
Does the campsite have covered or sheltered areas for dining and activities in case of rain or very hot days?
There are many covered & sheltered places at Top of the Woods for you to enjoy
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The Dutch Barn: This is a great place to meet other guests. If it’s windy and wet, you can cook and dine here using your camping stove. On sunny days, it provides shade, and the nearby hammock garden offers a relaxing spot to enjoy the weather without overheating.
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Soo’s Shed: This guest hangout area features Wi-Fi, tables and chairs, a sofa, and fun activities like a table football game. It’s a great spot to enjoy board and card games, plan your holiday adventures, or simply relax while catching up on emails/socials.
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The Woodshed: This covered area features table tennis and a soft play area for children, along with a wash-up area. It also includes drying lines for wetsuits and towels after a day at the beach.
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The Event Barn: This all-weather venue hosts a weekly cinema night with classic films suitable for all ages, along with additional screenings during school holidays. If it rains, we’ll also show extra films to keep everyone entertained. In July and August, the barn also hosts weekly wellbeing yoga classes. You can check the schedule on the blackboard in Soo’s Shed when you arrive.
What toilet and shower facilities are available?
In the courtyard, we provide 4 wet-room showers and 4 unisex flushing toilets. One of the toilets and showers is larger and includes facilities for parent & child or disabled guests. Additionally, all our glamping and camping meadows feature off-grid compost toilets and hot wooden shower cabins, and the glamping safari lodges have their own off grid toilets & hot showers.
What types of accommodations have private bathrooms?
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Safari Lodges have private compost loos, hot showers, and wash-up facilities.
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Pioneer Camp shares compost loos, showers and wash up facilities in the meadow.
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Nature Domes have compost loos in the meadow and is the closet to the main courtyard shower in the main block.
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Camping Meadows are near compost loos and the main toilet block.
Please note we do not handle chemical waste onsite as we are on a private waste system
Are the showers and toilets free?
Yes, all our showers and toilets, including those in the courtyard and off-grid areas, are free to use.
Can we drink the water at Top of the Woods?
Yes, and it’s delicious Penrallt Top of the Woods Spring water! So, there is no need to bring in water in plastic bottles. You can ask at reception for a water butt to use if you have not brough your own or have forgotten it.
What facilities do you have for cyclists?
We a bike friendly site & there are many cycling routes you can enjoy locally & in the woods. We can provide:
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Secure bike storage and workshop area
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Spares box (pump, puncture kit, gloves etc.)
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Wash down area for bikes
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Suggested cycle itineraries through the Pembrokeshire National Park on established cycling route – e.g. the Tour of Pembrokeshire /National cycle routes and bespoke routes
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Library of local cycle maps & cycle guidebooks
What facilities are available for camping guests?
At Top of the Woods, we offer several convenient amenities to enhance your stay:
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A freezer in the Dutch Barn for ice blocks
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A shared camping fridge and microwave for guest use
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Travel cots and highchairs available if needed
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Drying line for wetsuits and towels
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Dog and bike shower, along with bike storage
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Dog screws available if required
We aim to make your camping holiday as comfortable as possible! If you don’t see what you need on this list, just ask— we have a range of camping gear you can borrow if you’ve forgotten anything!
What facilities are available to keep my food cold when i am camping or glamping?
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Safari Lodge have a large electric fridge
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Nature Domes & Pioneer Camp are off-grid and have a large Colman cool box as part of their glamping setup, with 2 large freezer packs available from reception
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Meadow Campers – Would need to bring their own cool boxes, we provide a large freezer in the Dutch Barn to freeze your ice blocks and there is also access to a shared large camping fridge.
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Friend, Power & Park up Pitch – these two pitches have the option for an 12kwv EHU, (£7 per night, which you can add this during your booking or when you arrive) - You will need to bring your own cable to connect to the EHU point (see generic illustration picture below)
Do you have a shop where I can buy food and gifts at the campsite?
We have a small Welsh Gift Shop on site, featuring unique items from local crafters, makers, and artists—perfect for memorable holiday gifts.
While we offer some camping essentials like wood, kindling, firelighters, and marshmallows for cooking and campfires, we recommend stocking up on local provisions at the village shops in Boncath or Cilgerran Post Office, both of which support local businesses.
For larger grocery needs, the supermarkets in Cardigan Town are about a 15-minute drive away.
Electricity, Mobile & Wifi.
Is there Wifi on the campsite?
Yes, we offer free Wi-Fi, which can be found around the courtyard reception area and the covered barns, making it easy to connect when you need to. Wi-Fi is not available in the camping meadow or glamping accommodation.
What is the mobile signal like on the campsite?
Do you have anywhere I can charge my mobile device?
Yes, you can charge your mobile devices for free in Soo's Shed.
Mobile signal has been recently upgrade to 5G but depending on which network provider you are on the quality of your signal will vary.
Do you have electric hook ups for camping?
Yes, we have 2 camping pitches which have EHU they are the Friends, Power & Park up camping pitches, which you can add as an extra to your camping booking. The camping pitches in the main camping meadow are off-grid and do not have EHU.
Do I need electricity for camping?
Electricity is not essential for your camping experience.
However, at Top of the Woods, we offer convenient amenities for your camping stay. In the Dutch Barn, you’ll find a large freezer for ice bricks, a shared camping fridge, and a microwave for all our guests to use. There’s also a charging station for your mobile devices at no additional cost, so you can enjoy the great outdoors while having everything you need at your fingertips!
However, if you require electricity (e.g such as a CPAP machine), we recommend booking the Friends, Power & Park pitches, where you can add electric hookup (EHU) to your camping reservation for just £7 per night.
What equipment do I need to use electricity in a tent on the Friends Power & Park up Pitch?
The electric hook up point is 16A.
You will require a mobile mains outdoor kit, which includes its own circuit breaker - similar to this picture
Please Note: Thi is only suitable for a tent pitched up on the Friends Power & Parkup as this has EHU. Our Meadow Camping pitches DO NOT have EHU
What should bring for my camping glamping holiday at Top of the Woods?
What should I pack for my glamping holiday
Everything is included for your glamping holiday accept towels, so you will need to bring them. Have a look at "What extra things should i bring for my camping holiday?" For some additional items you might want to bring.
What should i bring if i have never been camping before?
What are the camping essentials i need to pack?
What kind of clothes do i need to pack?
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Warm Sleeping Bag (3-Season), Extra Blankets, and Hot Water Bottle
UK nights can be chilly, so a 3-season sleeping bag is a good option. Bring extra blankets to layer up around the campfire or inside your tent. A hot water bottle is also a great addition for staying toasty—it's much easier to stay warm than to get warm once you're cold, so plan to keep cosy from the start.
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Tent with Weatherproofing
Ensure your tent is sturdy and waterproof. Look for one that’s easy to set up with strong pegs and guy lines for stability in wind or rain. It’s also a good idea to bring extra pegs and gaffer tape in your tent kit bag for any unexpected repairs.
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Headlamp or Torch (with Spare Batteries) and Waterproof Shoes or Crocs
With limited lighting at off-grid campsites, a reliable light source is essential for nighttime navigation. A headlamp or torch will help you find your way. It’s also important to have easy slip-on waterproof shoes for trips to the toilet in the dark—Crocs are a comfortable and practical choice for this.
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Clothes for all weathers - Layers, Layers, Layers
Remember, you’re living outdoors, so layering is key! Bring clothes you can easily add or remove based on the temperature. Pack waterproof jackets, base layers, and body warmers. Don’t forget a woolly hat for cool mornings and evenings, and a sun hat for warm, sunny days to stay comfortable and avoid getting sunburned.
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Water Carrier and Reusable Water Bottle
At our campsite, we have fresh spring water that is drinkable, but you'll need a water carrier to bring it to your pitch. Having a reusable water bottle with you during the day not only helps you stay hydrated but also prevents the need to buy bottled water, making it more environmentally friendly and saving you money in the long run
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Cooking Equipment and Utensils
Bring along your cooking gear, including a portable stove, pots, and utensils for meal prep. A cool box with ice packs is essential for keeping food fresh. Remember, you can freeze your ice packs on-site in the communal camp freezer. Don’t forget the essentials like a can opener, spatula, and cutting board!
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First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen, so it’s wise to have a basic first aid kit on hand, including plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications you may need. Be sure to include antihistamine cream or tablets, as well as supplies for bee and wasp stings, insect bites, cuts, and bruises.
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Biodegradable Toiletries
Where possible, bring biodegradable toiletries such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste. While you don’t need to bring washing-up liquid, as we provide that at the campsite, having eco-friendly toiletries is a great choice for your camping experience. If you forget anything, we sell natural biodegradable soaps and shampoo at our onsite gift shop.
What extra things should I pack for my camping holiday?
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Bikes, if you can. There's fabulous on & off-road cycling on the doorstep and Top of the Woods has secure bike storage too or you can hire bikes locally.
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Clothes & equipment for your outdoor adventures. For example swimming costumes, googles, wetsuits, water shoes, snorkels & fins, boogie boards, surf boards etc.. You can swim in the secret waterfall in the Fynonne Woods, or check out some of the wild swimming spots are for those who love outdoor swimming
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A good torch, plus ideally a head torch. There's minimal site lighting (so you can enjoy the stars, and so the nature, particularly the resident bats, aren't unduly disturbed). Most nights, you get the most amazing views of the moon and the stars!
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Binoculars or a telescope, if you have them. There's almost zero light pollution in the area, so you get the most amazing views of the moon and stars at night, plus there's wildlife to spot. Have a look at what you could see in the dark skies when you come camping or glamping on your holiday
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Insect repellent and perhaps natural insect repelling candles (e.g. citronella), for sitting out in the evenings without too much attention from mozzies!
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Outdoor & indoor games, bring your favourite outdoor games perhaps Kubb or giant twister! or there is also a selection of games you can borrow from reception
Animals, Pets & Wildlife.
Is Top of the Woods a Dog friendly site?
What camping and glamping accommodation can my dogs stay in?
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome at our glamping and camping accommodations, with a maximum of two dogs per booking. There is a fee of £5 per dog per night for glamping, while camping is free.
Dogs must be kept on leads at all times throughout the campsite, including at your camping or glamping pitch, and must not disturb other guests or wildlife. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs and disposing of waste in the designated dog waste bins. If you’ve forgotten your dog bags, we sell biodegradable dog waste bags at reception.
Is there somewhere on the campsite dogs can run off lead?
Dogs must be on a lead at all times on the campsite; however, you can take them into the woods, where they can be off-lead.
What animals are there on the campsite?
We have two camping dogs named Dylan (Wheaten Terrier) and Dirk (Cockerpoo), a large Norwegian Forest cat called Magnus, and our Kunekune pig family consisting of Harry, Myrtle, Martha, and Dora.
Can I meet the animals? dogs? cats? or pigs?
Can I feed the pigs
Yes, Jon will take guests down to see the pigs every couple of days at 11 a.m. to ensure you can meet them safely and that the pigs are not overwhelmed by guests.
No, we do not allow the guests to feed the pigs as there is a risk you might get bitten or trampled. However, when you go and visit the pigs you can bring vegetarian food & Jon will feed the pigs when you are there, so you can enjoy them safely. Also, there is a high risk for the pigs you fed them foods which is dangerous for them or make them ill.
Our camp dogs are usually around every day, and you can also join us for our daily dog walks, just ask Soo what time it’s happening that day?
However, Magnus, our cat, is a bit more elusive. If he wants to say hi, he will, but if he’s not in the mood, he won’t! You know how cats are!
What entertainment & activities are there on site?
What activities are available on-site? What entertainment do you have on site?
What can I do at Top of the Woods?
At our site, imagination and nature take centre stage, offering children the freedom to play, explore, and make new friends in a natural setting. The open camping and glamping meadows invite wild play, with games of tag, hide and seek, and adventures around the beloved climbing tree, sparking adventure and creativity at every turn.
For older kids and teens, there’s plenty to keep them active and engaged, from basketball and table tennis to badminton and Kubb’s. Our Barn Cinema hosts regular movie nights with films for all ages, and the adjoining haybarn offers a space for children to explore and play.
The adventure continues beyond the meadows with woodland and waterfall trails just waiting to be explored on foot, by bike, or even on a run—no need to hop in the car. For a unique experience, book a Dark Sky Safari and uncover the wonders of the night skies.
Soo’s Shed adds even more to your stay, offering yoga classes, pop up live music, and a guest library filled with guidebooks, maps, and classic board games. As the evening settles in, gather around your pitch or the communal firepit to share stories, laughter, and memories under the stars.
Find out more what the latest activities there are to enjoy this coming year for your camping and camping staycation.
What outdoor activities are available near Top of the Woods?
There is probably too many to answer but here is a list of the most popular outdoor activities that are local & near to the campsite.
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Hiking, Treks and Running
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Woodlands & Waterfalls Trek - from the campsite (walking)
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Cenarth Waterfalls & River Teifi - 10 mins (by car)
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Pembrokeshire Coastal Path - 15 - 20 mins (by car)
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Pembrokeshire National Park - the Preseli’s 10 mins (by car)
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The Golden Route - Trail running - the Preseli’s 10 mins (by car)
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Wild swimming & Surfing - Wild Swimming Blog & Best Surfing Beaches
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Waterfall - from the campsite (walking)
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Sea - 15-20 mins (by car)
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Wild Sea swimming 15-25 min by car (a number of beaches)
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Surfing 45 min by car
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Bodyboarding - 20 mins by car
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Paddleboard, Canoeing, Kayaking & wakeboarding
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River - 10 mins (by car)
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Sea - 20 mins (by car)
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Reservoir - 25 mins (by car)
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Coasteering - 25 - 30 mins (by car)
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Horse ridding
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Preseli's - National Park - 20mins
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Private hack & woodlands - 20mins
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Cycling - Find out more
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Mountain bike trail from the campsite (on bike)
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Road cycling - 3 miles to national cycle roads
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Car free cycling
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Cardi Bach Family Trail - 5-mile family friendly cycle (15 min by car)
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Brunel Bike trail - 19 miles Brunel Bike trail County Hall, Haverfordwest (45 mins by car)
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What are the campsite rules & etiquettes on site?
Are campfires and BBQs allowed?
Yes, campfires are permitted in designated off-the-ground fire pits. You can also hire fire pits and BBQs on-site and purchase sustainable kiln-dried wood, perfect for cooking and campfires. All glamping accommodations include fire pits or BBQs, and there is a communal campfire in the courtyard for everyone to enjoy.
Please note that disposable BBQs, unseasoned wood, or wood collected from the campsite are not allowed, as we are a sustainable campsite. Fallen wood provides habitat for nature, and damp or rotting wood creates smoke that can disturb other guests.
For safety, please do not leave children or dogs unsupervised around campfires or wood burners.
Can I hire a Firepit/BBQ on site?
How can I book a firepit/BBQ for my camping stay?
Yes, you can easily hire a firepit/ BBQ during your camping stay. Simply ask when you arrive and we will arrange the rental for you, which includes BBQ tools. Additionally, you can also buy sustainable kiln-dried wood, perfect for cooking over the campfire.
Does my glamping accommodation have a wood burner?
Can I bring my own wood for the wood burners?
Yes, every glamping accommodation includes a wood burner stove to keep you warm and cosy. For your safety and insurance purposes, please note that the wood burning stoves can only use wood supplied by Top of the Woods.
Can I recycle at the site?
Yes, we have recycling facilities throughout the site. We encourage all guests to recycle, and guidelines for proper waste separation are provided.
Can I play music at my pitch?
Amplified music, including radios and speakers, is not allowed at your pitch. Many of our guests come to enjoy the tranquillity of nature and may not want to hear music from others. However, you are welcome to play acoustic instruments, like guitars, quietly around the campfire. If you're unsure about what’s allowed, please feel free to ask at reception for clarification.
If you have booked exclusive use of the entire site and would like to have live or amplified music, this can be arranged with the appropriate licenses in place.
We appreciate your understanding as this policy helps us maintain a peaceful, nature-led atmosphere for all guests.
Can I bring a generator for my pitch?
Generators are not allowed on the campsite, as they can disturb both other guests and wildlife.
What is the noise policy on the campsite?
Do you have quiet times on site?
Top of the Woods is a peaceful, nature-led site. We ask guests to respect others by keeping noise levels to a minimum after 10 PM and before 8 AM.
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We reserve the right to cancel the remainder of a booking for guests whose behaviour is deemed unacceptable by Top of the Woods, including noisy or disruptive behaviour, wilful damage to the site or glamping accommodation, and rudeness to staff or other guests.
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No refunds or compensation will be given in these instances, and you may be asked to leave the site.
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We also reserve the right to claim compensation for any damages or inconveniences caused.
Smoking & Vaping
Smoking and vaping are not permitted in any of our glamping accommodations or in communal barns & sheds areas. Please dispose of cigarette butts in the bins provided.