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Reviews of Ymca Fairthorne Manor Campsite

Campsite Search > UK > South East England > New Forest & Hampshire > Southampton > Ymca Fairthorne Manor Campsite > Reviews

Ymca Fairthorne Manor Campsite
Curdridge
Botley
Southampton
Hampshire   (Browse area)
SO30 2GH
Tel: 01489 785228
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 Featured Site

Pitches: 60
Open: 02/04/2024 to 26/09/2024
           02/04/2025 to 26/09/2025

Rating: Average Review Score: 9/10 from 57 Reviews
                9/10 from 57 Reviews

Photos (15)

 Tent Pitches   Caravan Pitches   Motorhome Pitches   Small Campervans 
 No Glamping Units   No Statics for Hire   No Statics for Sale   No Seasonal Pitches 
 No Electric Hookups   No Hardstandings   No Fully Serviced Pitches   Show Full Facilities
Who's it for
 Families Welcome   Not Members Only   Rallies Welcome   Not Naturist Site 
 Dogs Welcome   No Dogs Allowed   Groups Welcome   Motorbikers Welcome 
Facilities
 Toilet Facilities   Hot Showers   Washing Up   No Bathroom 
 Baby Changing Facilities   No Laundry   Drinking Water   Disabled Friendly 
 Chemical Disposal   No Battery Charging   No Gas Exchange   Recycling Facilities 
 No Kitchen Facilities   Freezer / Fridge   No Motorhome Point   Wifi Access 
 Shop On Site   Bar On Site   Restaurant or Cafe or Takeaway On Site 
Activities
 Kids Playground   No TV Room   No Games Room   No Evening Ents 
 No Fishing   No Wild Swimming   No Indoor Pool   No Outdoor Pool 
 Horse Riding <1 mile   No Cycle Hire   Golf <5 miles   No Tennis 
 No Beach   Watersports On Site   Boat Launch / Mooring On Site 
Other Features
 No Sea Views   Not Working Farm   Campfires Allowed 
 No Waterside Pitches   Public Transport <1 mile  No Dog Walk 

Reviews:  57 in total, now showing 31 to 40                 Previous 10          Next 10
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Date of Visit: May 2016 Unit:  Campervan
Reviewer: Tracey-howes 1 review from this member

 We stayed 2 nights, 2 Adults and 2 infants and loved the site. As we were the only campers bar 1 other small motorhome I can't say what it would be like full but we were impressed. The site must have previously been a golf course as some signs are still up. My nearly 4 year old loved the woodland walk, tyre swing and fallen tree trunk that had been fitted with climbing handles, it was a bit different to your normal park which he liked. On one day we left the van set up and took the 10 minute easy walk to get the train into Southampton which was easy with one simple change, you can also easily reach Portsmouth, Winchester or even London from there. The toilets and showers were a little different as each is a separate door in the building (ie no mens/ladies block) and with no heating and large gaps under doors I bet it's freezing in winter or bad weather, however they were perfectly acceptable and very clean. We hired a fire pit but if you do this then ensure to bring kindling as although the large logs provided with it burnt well they are all you're given, thankfully we'd thought to bring kindling and extra wood. The staff we met were very friendly. This was the cheapest site I could find and we would stay again. 


Date of Visit: April 2016 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: Booker TI 4 reviews from this member

 Standards have dropped, will not be going back.

Last couple of years have been fantastic.

Our grandchildren loved the campfires and marshmallows. They made lots of friends.

This year the atmosphere was completely different.

Busy campsite but only saw one member of staff and he was rushed off his feet.

The toilet block has always been cleaned regularly and toilet rolls topped up.

#not the case this year.

What has changed?

The first thing the children asked when we arrived was where is Campsite Colin?

I must say that his personal touch went a long way and the grandchildren appreciated the dens he helped them build.

It was once a magical place. Now it just seems like a field with litter.

It stood out from the other campsites but we will now be exploring other family focussed sites. 


Date of Visit: August 2015 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: OttersPocket 1 review from this member

 I have recently returned from a two-night stay at the YMCA Family Park and Campsite. I booked two pitches for two couples, as we were bringing two tents, and was more than happy with the cost -- especially considering we were camping during their 'High Season'.

With that being said, everybody was suitably spaced-out across the site, with more than enough room for young children to run around and play without getting in anyone else's way. I saw children on bicycles, some playing five-a-side, and some merely keeping themselves entertained on the many tyre swings and climbing logs the campsite offers. Especially being a group without children -- I was pleased to find that we could camp quite comfortably in a quiet area of the site, without worrying about disturbing others -- or having them disturb us.

Without even considering the amount of outdoor activities that families can book onto up at the main Fairthorne Manor site (such as climbing, kayaking, archery etc. ) -- there is more than enough to do for free on the campsite alone. It is worth noting that the main Fairthorne Manor site is actually, private land -- dedicated to hosting school and youth groups on residential trips and day-camps etc. , so access is restricted unless accompanied by a member of staff. Saying that, however, the staff within the actual campsite reception are more than happy to answer any queries or questions you may have about the campsite boundaries -- and well as providing everyone with a detailed list of safety information/guidelines and printed maps upon check-in.

Overall, the staff were great. They were friendly, and helpful, and went out of their way to deliver our barbecue to our pitch early in the evening -- with more than enough charcoal to keep us going over our two nights. They were also great hosts for the Story Time and Sing-Song campfires, held on Friday and Saturday nights respectively. These were a great hit -- especially on Saturday night, where it seemed as though practically the entire campsite came out to join in with the songs, and most importantly -- stay for a free toasted marshmallow!

The YMCA Family Park & Campsite lets you get as involved as you want -- so regardless if you're looking for an action-packed weekend, or just a chance to sit back and relax with friends (as we did!) everything is provided for. The facilities, including the toilet and wash block were all suitably-sized, with powerful, warm showers, and enough hooks and bench-space to keep your clothes from getting wet (a first for a campsite toilet block!). While there are no electric hook-ups, the Club House/bar area is well-equipped with hot drinks, beers, ice creams etc. , and a handful of plug sockets if you needed to keep your phone fully charged. Still, we were so preoccupied sitting in the sun that we didn't even need to charge our phones much at all!

There are good links to many local attractions, and the campsite is easily accessible from the M27. Two of our party had come all the way from Eastbourne and yet found it with great ease. We visited a couple of local pubs in Swaythling and Hedge End -- as well as spending a good three hours at the nearby GoApe.

Altogether, a great choice for families, friends, and couples alike! Would definitely return! 


Date of Visit: July 2015 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: Booker TI 4 reviews from this member

 We have just returned to the site with some different friends and our grandchildren. We went to the Friday night camp fire tonight and I had to write about it.

It was a huge success!

We were very happy to see such an amazing team running the fire and a fabulous audience of children with their parents alike.

The lady reading the stories was warm and the children loved her.

The young man lighting the fire was very professional and together they really did very well!

There was a warm round of applause at the end of the show and some roasted marshmallows for the children. And me.

We saw a different aspect of the site this time round and it has truely reinforced our belief in the YMCA and what it does for families and children.

Well done everyone. 


Date of Visit: June 2015 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: Ejgthomas 2 reviews from this member

 Just retuned froma lovely weekend at Fairthorne Manor. Fab campsite, nice and flat, plenty of space for pitches. There is loads for the kids to do, ponds, tyre swings, tree climbing etc, and even more but only half the site was open as they had an event on. We were even treated to fireworks! The only downside was there are a limited number of toilets and showers, which although are kept clean, I would think there would be a queue during summer holidays. This won't put me off going back though. 

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Date of Visit: June 2015 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: Booker TI 4 reviews from this member

 We stayed as part of a larger group and as it was our first camping trip away, we were quite apprehensive.

We were not disappointed.

The check in was painless, the allocated space for our group was perfect and the site is glorious!

Our grandchildren ran off to the other side of the site to the rope swings whilst we set up and we barely saw them again as they made friends and really only returned for dinner.

The staff were very friendly and the Saturday night campfire was fabulous! A real gathering. I think everyone attended.

The toilets and showers were well managed and the attention to detail around the place was fantastic.

There were hidden dens for the kids, stepping stones across the stream, climbing boulders on fallen trees and long grass which provided excellent space for children to run. I would ask for more paths to be cut in to the long grass though.

The chap delivering the wood for the fire pits said he would so I look forward to seeing the site again soon.

All in all everyone had a fab time and we all agreed there and then to come back again.

Well done Fairthorne Manor and The Family Park! 


Date of Visit: June 2015 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: LangridgeFamily 1 review from this member

 This was the first time we have been camping with our youngest daughter of 2 years (Zoe). We choose this camp site as it was close to home (just in case she would not sleep or it rained - we are true campers!)

The staff gave us a warm welcome and advise us of what area would be best to camp (there were 2 large family groups also staying) so we choose to pitch up close to the sandpit (Zoe loves the sand). Whilst Zoe and her big sister (Ebony - 4 years) explored our end of the site (mainly the sandpit and the rope swings - still within eye sight) we made camp. Our BBQ (with charcoal) and fire pit where delivered (with wood).

The site manager came to say 'goodnight' and made sure that we had everything we needed before he finished for the day - which was a lovely thought.

How much did we love 'Campfire'?. We are still sing the songs now. Zoe and Ebony loved the actions/dancing. Campfire was just not long enough, could it be a little bit longer next time? Thank you for the Marshmallows to toast - the girls loved them!

Both girls made friends very quickly and spent most of the time running between the tents.

The noise (if you could call it that - mainly people talking and playing a guitar) died down round 10 ish.

The loos where clean and enough space for all.

All in all a very successful first time out with Zoe, we just need to get her in bed a little earlier next time - but why spoil their fun! A true campsite for the families. We will be back! 


Date of Visit: October 2014 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: Gingertree72 1 review from this member

 Very good service from warden and his female colleague. Really helpful friendly service.

Due to an event on the Sunday (we only stayed one night) we were allocated space for the tent and car by the reception/small cafe block. The ground slopes quite a lot here but due to our small 4 man tent we managed to find a less sloping space.

The kids enjoyed running around, going on the various swings playing in the activity zone where giant chess pieces, balls and bats etc. Are available.

The cafe has a lending library of a number of books and a large selection of games. There is a small selection of camping gear to buy. A small bar is inside the cafe. In the lobby next to the office are some mens and womens toilets with two shower cubicles in each. A larger block of toilets and shower rooms is available at the centre of the site. Water is available here too Steve said.

We used the woodland around the perimeter of the site as part of the event we were at. Good for tree climbing, den building etc.

In the central copse woodland is a clearing with a fire area, apparently they do stories here on Saturday evenings when more people around.

We signed up for archery, myself and 3 kids 5, 8 and 10 years respectively. Quite enjoyable and reasonably priced at £21 for 4@1. 5hr. There are other activities throughout the year check what's on on website.

It was a cold night but thankfully the ranger had opened up near 7am as my kids were cold and not coping. Don't know what I would have done if this had not been the case. We had the cafe all to ourselves until the event organisers came.

I managed to get the car between the fixed bell tents (which are available for hire) as this was the only way out due to taped off bike lanes.

I would have liked to have more info about rules eg. Leaving time and terms online or on sign in but the team were very good about answering my questions. 9am is the earliest we've had to take a tent down by at a campsite though! (Maybe this was only due to the cycling event that morning). We were able to hang around though using the visitor car park and facilities.

Definitely want to come again in Summer. 


Date of Visit: September 2014 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: PamelaH 7 reviews from this member

 A lovely flat open site, surrounded by trees, pitches aren't marked out so you can go where you want. It was quite busy over the weekend with lots of families but the weekdays were really peaceful.

Nice modern toilet and shower block that was clean and well stocked with paper and soap. Showers were hot and powerful, we never had a queuing problem but you might in high season. There was a bar and café on site, and it was great to buy a pint to take back to the tent! There was a freezer to leave cold packs in and barrier access to the site.

We had no children so didn't check out the playground, but there was one and had a few swings dotted around in the trees too.

Only downside was the price to hire a fire pit - £10 per night! Would have been useful in September but nearly doubled the price of the site.

Great area for access to both Southampton, Portsmouth and the South Downs for walking. 


Date of Visit: August 2014 Unit:  Tent
Reviewer: SteppieBristol 20 reviews from this member

 This site isn't so much child friendly as child compulsory. We spent a week here with our grandchildren, their parents and another family having been last year with the two older grandchildren (aged 7 and 9) and returned at their request.

There's something about the layout of the site which seems to encourage children to make friends and play together which gives a really nice atmosphere. It feels really safe and most people are very relaxed to let their children run around without having to watch them the whole time. There are several tree swings and a sandpit (left over from its previous life as a golf course). There is also a shallow stream which the kids can paddle in if the weather is not too cold. The whole ethos of the site is to encourage quality time for children and their parents and I think it achieves that very successfully.

We did make the mistake of camping too close to one of the swings and as a result had lots of children running through our camp so that is worth thinking about when you choose your location.

The staff are all friendly, and manager Steve was really helpful. They were only too happy to rent a bell tent at short notices and moved it over to where we were camped. The club house is a great facility - particularly as the kids can sit in there and access their phones and iPads if its a bit chilly outside. They do basic snack type meals and hot drinks and also have a bar.

It's not the most scenic area but there is quite a lot to do locally (although some things are a bit pricey). We spent a day on the Watercress railway which the children all enjoyed. Manor Farm country park was a bit disappointing (we arrived at five past four and just missed last entry to the Farm itself), however Royal Victoria Country Park was a lot better with good play areas. There are also a good range of activities to book on site although the price can mount up if you have several children.

Both times we have been there, most of the children have been generally well-behaved and friendly. I could see the potential for things to get a bit out of hand if there are were large groups of parents who didn't take responsibility for their children though. It's also probably because there are so many children that the loos get a bit messy.

I know the YMCA are keen to market the site and increase its use, but if they do, I think they need to think about increasing the number of toilets and showers as there can be a bit of a wait especially in the mornings. While the site is perfect for younger children (up to about 10 or 11) I suspect teenagers might get a bit bored.

However if you have younger children and want a place where they can enjoy fresh air and freedom to run around and enjoy themselves, this is the perfect place. 


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Common Questions

Is Ymca Fairthorne Manor Campsite child friendly?  YES, it accepts children & has a playground  View all facilities

Where is the nearest shop to Ymca Fairthorne Manor Campsite?  There is a shop on site  View all facilities

Is Ymca Fairthorne Manor Campsite dog friendly?  NO  View all facilities




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