Avon Tyrrell FAQs
When can I check in?
Reception is open until 5pm (longer hours in the Summer) and you can check in from the following times. On Call support is available after 5pm to support later check ins, so if you do anticipate a late arrival or experience any delays getting to us, we do ask that you keep us informed.
Camping: From 1pm - 9pm
House and Lodges: From 3pm - 9pm
All guests must check in at reception before proceeding to their pitch.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, we do allow dogs in some of our Camping areas so please check with our Customer Experience Team when making your booking to ensure we allocate your pitch correctly. With the exception of assistance dogs, we do NOT allow dogs in the lodges or the main house.
Is Avon Tyrrell open all year round?
Avon Tyrrell is open most of the year however we do have a 2 week shutdown over the Christmas and New Year period.
Our Camping is available from 1st March – 31st October each year.
I'm not satisfied with the service I've received, how can I make a complaint to Avon Tyrrell or UK Youth?
UK Youth are committed to providing high quality services to our membership and members of the public who use the Charity’s services or engage with us. We value complaints and use information learnt from them to help us improve what we do and how we do it. If something goes wrong or you are dissatisfied with what we are providing, please tell us – you should feel free to raise matters of concern without risk of disadvantage. This document describes our complaint procedure and how to make a complaint.
Are bedding and towels provided?
Bedding is provided for all lodges and included in the cost of your lodge.
We do not provide towels during your stay so please bring ensure that you bring your own, however you can hire towels for £4 per set if needed.
What is included with the lodge?
On arrival you will be provided with a small selection of kitchen essentials, including a tea towel, washing up liquid, bin bags and a toilet roll, but you will need to bring any additional amenities that you require.
Are there additional charges for gas and electricity used?
No, the accommodation fee covers all services.
What time can I arrive?
You are welcome to arrive at the centre at any time, although you will only be able to access your accommodation after 3pm unless otherwise agreed with our Customer Experience Team.
What time must I vacate?
You must vacate your lodge by 10am on your departure date from Monday to Saturday and 4pm on Sundays. It is important that these times are adhered to so that our Housekeeping team have plenty of time to change over for new groups arriving that day.
Are prices per person or per lodge?
Prices are charged per lodge although maximum numbers do apply.
When is full payment due?
For lodge bookings, we must have full payment prior to your arrival, otherwise we cannot give you the keys. The only exceptions are for organised groups who we will invoiced after the visit and payment will then need to be made upon 14 days of receipt.
Do your camping pitches have electrical hook-ups?
Some of our pitches do have an electric hook up point so please check availability with our Customer Experience Team when making your booking. Please note, you will be required to bring your own hook up cable (these are not provided.)
Can I request a particular camping area?
Yes, we will always try to accommodate your requests where possible, although due to the mixture of groups on site, we may advise you of an alternative camping area for your stay. On marked pitches you must be able to fit your tent and vehicle within the allocated markers. This may mean you need to leave your car in one of our communal car parks.
Do you have hot showers?
Yes, our 3 facilities blocks, one gender specific and two communal, have hot showers and we have accessible wet room facilities. We do not have hair dryers.
Can I have a BBQ?
Yes, providing your BBQ is raised off the ground, you are welcome to enjoy. Alternatively, you can use one of the communal fire pits. Fire wood and coal can be purchased from Reception as well as disposable BBQs.
Can I have a campfire?
Yes, but only in our designated Campfire area which can be booked for an additional charge. Ground fires are not permitted elsewhere on the site. If you have a firepit you are welcome to use it as long as it is raised off of the ground.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, we have a few dog friendly camping areas available at weekends and in school holidays from March-October. Dogs are required to be under control and on a lead at all times, and owners must responsibly dispose of any waste in the bins provided. Dogs are not allowed on our lakeside camping area even on a lead.
Is there drinking water available?
We have several drinking taps situated around the site as well as a refill station next to Reception.
Is there anywhere I can store perishable foods?
Yes, we have a small communal fridge and freezer unit near Reception for our camping guests to store a couple of items.
Where can I wash up?
We have washing up facilities with hot water outside our facilities blocks.
Are there chemical waste disposal points on site?
Yes we have two chemical waste disposal points on site but no grey waste facilities.
Are there any laundry facilities?
Unfortunately we do have laundry facilities available for guests.
Is there Wi-fi?
We do have a limited free Wi-Fi service for guests to use, but do encourage everyone to put down the devices and explore the great outdoors instead.
Where can I buy the essentials?
We have a small campsite shop, selling basics such as milk, bread, toiletries and some camping supplies. It also stocks souvenir gifts and toys too. The village of Bransgore is a short drive away and offers a larger selection of food items in the Co-op, or the nearby market towns of Christchurch and Ringwood have full sized supermarkets.
Can I bring my bike?
Yes, providing you also bring (and wear!) a helmet, you are very welcome to make use of our mountain bike trails. Please visit Reception for a map.
If you’d prefer to take the hassle out of transporting your bike, on-site bike hire is available.
Can I bring my e-scooter?
We do not allow the use of e-scooters on our site.
Can I join in on the activities?
Yes, our activities are suitable for 5+ years (some are 8+ years) but we recommend booking in advance on our portal to avoid disappointment. See section on activities below.
What else can I do at Avon Tyrrell?
We have a range of FREE to use facilities to make the most of your visit - children’s play park, bouldering wall and sports courts. For a small cost we also have family activity packs to really explore the magical surroundings at Avon Tyrrell - Treasure Hunt, Orienteering and Geocaching.
What are the arrival and departure times?
Your camping pitch will be available from 1pm and you must vacate your pitch by 10am, although you are welcome to remain on site and enjoy the facilities for the rest of the day.
Can I book pitches next to my friends?
If you are looking to book a pitch for a group of friends or a large party, please specify at the time of booking and we will accommodate you where possible. If for any reason we are unable to accommodate such a request you will be informed at the time of booking.
As a family campsite we have quiet times from 10pm to 7am and expect guests to behave in an appropriate manner, including not drinking to excess or playing loud music.
When is full payment due?
For small parties and families full payment is required at the time of booking. For organised groups, including those booking group activities, we can take a 50% deposit but final payment will be needed prior to arrival. For more information on our terms and conditions please contact us or read our Terms and Conditions policy document.
Are there any age restrictions on your activities?
Bushcraft, the Adventure Course, High Ropes, Archery, Pioneering and Climbing are suitable for guests aged 5 years and over.
The Tree Top Trail, Abseiling, Kayaking, Paddleboarding and Raft Building are suitable for ages 8 years and over.
Both Tree Top Trail and the Zip Wire have a minimum height restriction of 140cm if a child is taking part independently, or 130cm if they are accompanied by an adult.
Are there any weight restrictions on your activities?
There is a maximum weight restriction of 120kg / 16 stone for the following activities:
Tree Top Trail
High Ropes
Climbing
Abseiling
Zip Wire.
For more information, please contact our Customer Experience Team who will be able to advise you on appropriate activities.
Are the activities all accessible?
The majority of our activities are fully accessible and we have a range of inclusive equipment available to ensure everyone has the same opportunities. If you do need special equipment for a session, please discuss this with our Customer Experience Team when making your booking or for further information, see our accessible adventure page.
Can I book activities on arrival, or during my stay?
We would strongly advise if you would like to take part in activities during your stay that you book these at least 6 weeks in advance. Bookings can be made when you arrive but these will be subject to availability.
Can I use my own paddleboard on the lake?
Unfortunately we can only allow guests to use equipment belonging to Avon Tyrrell on the lake.
Do you have fishing facilities?
Yes, we have two well stocked fishing lakes on site for those that hold a rod licence, but we do not provide any rods or fishing equipment. Booking is required either in advance or on the day.
Do you need a permit/licence to fish?
As an individual, yes do need a rod licence to fish in our lakes as well as a day fishing pass which can be purchased from reception.
Please note: Fishing closes from 15 March -15 June for restocking
If you have a question not currently covered in our Frequently Asked Questions page please contact us and let us know, our friendly staff team are here to help you.

Looking for a short break or weekend away to enjoy and explore the New Forest? With accommodation for small and large groups you can stay in our Grade I Listed House, camp under the stars or choose one of our lodges.

If you know what you are looking for, check out our online portal and get booked on. Check availability, view our special deals and book Drop in Activities, Fundays, Family Events and Courses. It's quick and easy!