Spotlight on: Woodyhyde Campsite, Dorset

With my journey towards Woodyhyde Campsite taking me right past the stunning hilltop ruins of Corfe Castle, and the site lane leading me under a bridge carrying the Swanage heritage railway, I knew this site was going to be something special.

I timed my arrival perfectly, with a view across the countryside punctuated by the heritage steam train passing along the track, carrying tourists on its scenic journey from Norden to Corfe Castle and down to the Victorian seaside town of Swanage. Of the three touring fields, one is bordered by the railway track. It is worth noting that the entrance road to Woodyhyde involves driving under a railway bridge which is 10.5 feet (3.20m) high by nine feet (2.74m) wide.

The first thing I noted about the site is the open space, there’s plenty of room and views from every touring field are of lush green Dorset countryside. You choose where to pitch on arrival, and dogs are accepted in two of the fields at no extra charge. There are grass and hardstanding pitches with 100 electric hook-ups available. Due to the access road, only motorhomes and tents are accepted.

The other thing in ample numbers are washroom facilities, which consist of toilets and token-operated showers. There are also accessible facilities, dishwashing sinks and a chemical disposal point. The licensed shop has to be one of the most well-stocked I have ever seen – a real Aladdin’s cave, with everything you could need, including discounted railway tickets.

There are various footpaths from the campsite leading to the Purbeck Hills and to the South West Coast Path for longer walks exploring the Jurassic Coast. The bus stop at the site entrance gives easy access to the pretty riverside town of Wareham, and the coastal resort of Swanage.

The main attraction has to be the hilltop ruins of Corfe Castle and the quaint village below, all less than two miles away. The independent shops and tea rooms, housed in grey Purbeck limestone buildings, demand you spend time relaxing and switching off from technology. But should you feel the need to stay connected, Woodyhyde offers free WiFi throughout the whole site!

Woodyhyde Campsite
Valley Road, Corfe Castle, Dorset BH20 5HT
01929 480274

This site review first appeared in MMM magazine, December 2024 issue, submitted by Claire Tupholme.