Ryeford Ponds

Secluded, rural retreat. Quiet, exclusively private spot. No crowds. Dark skies at night, campfires and all things outdoors.

About: Ryeford Ponds camp is sited on our six-acre paddock in a sheltered valley with woodlands, meadows and ponds – just outside the beautiful market town of Ross-On-Wye, minutes away from the Forest of Dean. With only two, spacious, fully set-up and furnished bell tents, a small shepherd’s hut and two woodland pitches you are guaranteed a restful break from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Here, you are encouraged to put your feet up and embrace the moment. Enjoy the freedom and space, sit by the campfire, relax in a hammock and reconnect with nature. Listen to the buzzards above, spot the woodpecker, kingfisher or a heron and perhaps catch a glimpse of Canada geese landing on one of the ponds near you. Switch off, unwind and simply “be”!

Our furnished bell tents - Hawthorn Ridge and Tillia are located at one side of our camp, with Wharton Hut at the top of the valley and woodland camping spots at the other end. They feel private but are not too distant from each other to allow small groups and families to holiday together.

Bell Tents are fully equipped and furnished and can sleep two adults (on a comfortable, made-up double bed) and three children on futons and camp beds. Addition of an awning expands your sheltered and usable space and pretty fairy lights and solar lamps add to the charm of camping with comforts and enjoying outdoors.

Your private, flushing toilet and shower room is located nearby along with our well-equipped Summer Kitchen. There, you will find all pots and pans, gas fridge, hob, charcoal bbq, cooking kit and essentials. Make use of the herb garden to add fresh mint to your cheeky g&t or pimms!).

Wharton Hut is ideal for a peaceful couple's get away. Sited a little more privately, at the top of the valley, it enjoys more widespread views and sunsets. It’s furnished with a comfy king size bed, some storage, indoor hob, Belfast sink and cabinets. The addition of outdoor seating and campfire will sure make your stay enjoyable. All utensils, cooking kit, charcoal bbq, gas hob, small fridge, pots and pans and basic necessities are provided in its own outdoor kitchenette.

A short walk down in a dedicated building in the valley, you will find a spacious flushing toilet and hot shower room, ensuring your break is comfortable. Additionally, a private composting loo is conveniently located nearby.

Two off-grid woodland camping spots are designed to accommodate two families together or individual groups slightly further apart. It’s nearly-wild camping, amongst ponds and meadows, with additional comfort of flushing toilets, hot showers and washing up facilities. Picnic bench and campfire are also provided. Pitches are as flat as we can make them without too much disturbance to nature. 

We are in a great location for exploring Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean. Plenty of pubs, eateries and take-outs in and near Ross-On-Wye (3.5miles). For peace and safety, camp car parking is located away from the accommodation with vehicle access on check in/out days only. Nearest shop – The Lea Stores is well-stocked up (1.5miles).

Worth Noting: Apologies, we can’t accept any pets and we don’t allow stag/hen parties. Being an off-grid site there’s no electricity – please bring torches and power banks. Glamping – 3 nights weekend and 4 nights mid-week breaks in school holidays (more flexible off peak). Camping – min 3 nights, flex-arrival.

Pitches: Five, including two glamping bell tents and a shepherd’s hut

Open: May to September

Site Owners: Aldona & Edward

Address: Wharton Farm, Pontshill, Ross-On-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 5SX

Telephone: 07812 209264

Website: www.ryefordponds.co.uk