“Our Scout campsite at Chelwood between Bristol and Bath is popular with schools, clubs and other scout groups”
Chelwood Campsite is used extensively by 1st Keynsham Scout Group but is also available to other youth organisations subject to prior booking.
The site nestles in a fold of the soft Avon country side covering 30 acres, almost surrounded by woodland. There is a large camping area, screened from the road by rising ground. A stream running through a gully, offers a perfect area ideal for bivouacking.
Facilities include a gravel roadway. leading to a car-park, next to which are the toilet blocks, water points are located around the site. A barn is available as alternative wet accommodation (particularly for Cubs and Scouts).
The site borders the A368, 1/2 km from Chelwood village, and is easily reached via the M4/M5/M32, being no more than 30 minutes away from junction 18/19.
Click here for google map location.
The campsite features a toilet block, and water points are conveniently dispersed throughout the area. In case of inclement weather, a barn is available as an alternative shelter. Excitingly, a spacious, new covered barn area is currently under construction and will be ready for the 2025 season. This addition will provide ample space for a variety of activities, suitable for both wet weather and covered events. The site’s woodland areas offer an abundance of wood for campfires, with additional supplies available for purchase locally. A parachute stretched over a section of the woodland creates an ideal spot for bivouacking, embracing back-to-basics camping, and backwoods cooking. An activity trail meanders around a portion of the site, open to all hirers. While the site boasts excellent mobile phone reception, please note that facilities such as showers, electricity, hot water, and Wi-Fi are not available.
Nestled near the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), our location is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The hills beckon adventurers with opportunities for climbing, caving, hiking, and mountain biking. Numerous outdoor activity centres in the vicinity offer a range of adventurous pursuits. Cheddar Gorge, renowned for its stunning landscapes, serves as an ideal starting point for walking expeditions.
The vibrant cities of Bristol and Bath are just a short journey away. Bath, famed for its Roman Baths, Pump Room, and UNESCO-listed architecture, also offers the scenic Bath Skyline Walk and various museums. Meanwhile, Bristol is home to iconic landmarks such as the Clifton Suspension Bridge, its bustling docks, and the historic SS Great Britain. The city also boasts several interactive museums and the dramatic setting of Avon Gorge for climbing enthusiasts. For indoor activities, Bristol presents climbing walls, trampoline centres, sailing and kayaking opportunities in the docks (available through the Scout Benjamin Perry Centre [https://benjaminperryshed.wordpress.com]), and adventure golf.
A bit further away lies the coastal charm of Weston Super Mare, easily accessible by train from Keynsham. This seaside town is famous for its beach, pier, and amusement arcades, offering a perfect day trip for those seeking a blend of relaxation and fun.
Please use the online booking form to view prices. If your dates are available you will be able to book them. Please note that in some circumstances (e.g. when several people book at the same time, or someone makes a particularly large booking) we may have to contact you to let you know your booking is not possible but if you do not hear back within a week you should assume everything is OK.
Please use the online booking form – if your dates are available you will be able to book them. Please note that in some circumstances (e.g. when several people book at the same time, or someone makes a particularly large booking) we may have to contact you to let you know your booking is not possible but if you do not hear back within a week you should assume everything is OK.
The cost is per person, per session (morning or afternoon, whole day or day plus overnight). The rates are shown on the booking form on the website.
We are able to offer exclusive hire. Please contact us for the costs for this.
There is no permanent accommodation on site.
We’re happy for most activities to be carried out on site subject to Scout Association rules/permits and not causing any inconvenience to other site users or any damage to the site. Please let us know what you plan to run if you think it might damage the ground and we’ll let you know if it will be possible.
The field is suitable for most sports (football, rounders/baseball, wide games, obstacle courses, archery and shooting etc) – if you have any specific concerns please contact us.
The activity trail is free to be used subject to you carrying out suitable risk assessments for your group.
There is a barn which can be used for indoor activities in bad weather. Please consider bringing some good lighting if you want to use it.
There is no permanent accommodation on site.
The site has a toilet block, a barn for wet weather/indoor activities, a campfire circle and a parachute covered area. There are cold water taps around the perimeter of the site. There is a stream and an activity trail. There is no electricity, no showers and no kitchen area.
We don’t offer hire of any equipment, sorry.
Fires are allowed on site but must be in fire drums or altar fires off the ground. There are several fire drums on site for you to use. The campfire circle can be used by anyone – please arrange with any other groups on site directly if you want to use it.
There is a parking area by the entrance gate sufficient for around 30 cars if parked carefully.
Depending on the type of tents, activities planned etc. we would estimate up to about 250 people. Please come and visit if you are planning a very large event so you can check it will be suitable.
Yes, we have several home education/out of school clubs which use the site.
Definitely! Please contact us to arrange a date to come and see the site.
Please see below for the site map and the site orienteering maps.