Camping and Cider at Tucker’s Grave Inn, Somerset

For this year’s trip to Cornwall we wanted to break the journey up with a stop off somewhere. On researching we decided Somerset would be a good destination at around 5 hours drive away from us in Durham. Now camping had been on our agenda for quite sometime so when we came across Tucker’s Grave Inn & Campsite we decided now was our chance, and we took a trip to Go Outdoors.….. and guess what? We left with all the basic camping gear we would need for our first trip!

Check-in at Tucker’s is 12pm and we arrived exactly on time. The staff member who checked us in was really helpful – especially as this was our first time staying in a tent – and within no time we were choosing our pitch and setting the tent up. Our tent by the way is an Outwell 4 man tent (Oregan) Plenty of room for two and the spaniels. Nestled behind the Inn is the campsite and what attracted us to Tucker’s Grave Campsite was the choice of camping zones. There’s an adults only area – which we chose, a family area and a group area; perfect for gatherings. We also hired a fire-pit and bought some logs for the two nights ahead. The shared facilities were spotlessly clean and in a central location – perfect for whichever area you were camping in. There was also a variety of pitches, grass or hard-standing, with or without electric.

After setting up, we strolled over to the Inn to indulge in their renowned cider. Tucker’s Grave Inn, a 200-year-old cider house and one of only six remaining in the entire country, is proudly featured on the National Inventory of Historic Interiors. Sitting in what was once the tap yard, you are enveloped by original features such as the rustic wooden boards and shutters. It truly feels like stepping back in time. Although the interior is cosy, the vast beer garden offers plenty of space, and with the gorgeous weather, we spent the majority of the afternoon outside. We grabbed a couple of their plastic cups and eagerly dove into sampling the delightful array of cider flavours available. My favourite was undoubtedly the rhubarb.

Now at Tucker’s Grave, you can also expect an array of exciting and captivating events each evening, whether it’s live music, weddings, or charity events. On our first night—a Thursday—we were amazed as around 50 motorbikes rolled in, one by one. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy as we tucked into delicious burgers and chips from the Old Parlour Cafe. Check out their upcoming events here.

When the light began to fade, we returned to our tent, ignited the fire pit, and indulged in snacks while the spaniels settled into their own sleeping bags.

After a surprisingly rejuvenating sleep, the next day we ventured into Bath City using the Park & Ride service at Odd Down, just a quick 20-minute drive away. This historic city brims with activities and sights, offering a variety of parks and gardens perfect for walking your dog, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the canal. We explored the magnificent cathedral and the iconic Pulteney Bridge. Additionally, we discovered an indoor market where dogs were not only welcomed but where we also found a dedicated pet shop.

If the city isn’t your cup of tea dont worry, Tucker’s Grave is surrounded by beautiful Somerset countryside with plenty of trails and bridleways you can explore straight from the campsite.

Back at the campsite that evening, a wedding added a vibrant atmosphere to the scene. It was bustling, but we enjoyed our takeaway fish and chips—once again from The Old Parlour Cafe—and soaked in the lively music throughout the night. Overall, our stay at Tucker’s Grave Inn & Campsite exceeded our expectations, and we are thoroughly pleased with our first choice.