Dorset campsite named top south west destination for campers

The family-owned business, just outside of Wareham near Sugar Hill, was awarded the top gold accolade in the camping and caravanning park category of this year’s South West Tourism Excellence Awards. 

Stepping up to receive their family’s winning trophy at the ceremony were Chrissy and Ben Bracey, Chrissy’s parents Tony and Sarah Birch and their park managers Adam and Nicky Wake. 

Tony and Sarah bought the park more than 20 years ago and have since worked tirelessly – latterly with Chrissy and Ben’s help – to constantly maintain and further improve the five-star surroundings. 

Their reward has been to see a year-on-year rise in visitor numbers from across the UK and overseas, and a host of awards for the park’s high standards and care for the natural world. 

Awards include the AA campsite of the year, south west England 2022/23 and earlier this year, the top gold accolade in the Dorset Tourism Awards. 

The 55-acre wooded site is in the heart of Wareham Forest and a short drive from the Purbeck coast. 

Chrissy said Wareham Forest is also proud of its dog-friendly reputation – providing a warm shower to pamper dogs and walkers. 

Guests can also enjoy a heated outdoor pool with sunbathing area during the summer, children’s adventure playground, first-class washroom facilities, and a park shop with local specialities. 

Chrissy said: “This is a fantastic achievement, and our hard-working team deserves a big share of the credit for helping to provide a warm welcome and a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. 

“As a family business we go all out to create memorable holiday experiences and the vast majority of our guests are repeat visitors or coming as a result of a personal recommendation. 

“This award has provided us with a wonderful start to the new holiday season and we’re delighted that our guests will also benefit other local businesses during their stay.”