Devon touring park off the beaten track is named AA Small Campsite of the Year

A family-run sheep farm on the edge of Exmoor is celebrating after being named Small Campsite of the Year in the AA Caravan and Camping Awards.

Hallsdown Farm Touring Park, off the beaten track somewhere between Arlington Court and Exmoor Zoo, is also the only campsite in the whole of Devon to be named in the 2025-26 awards.

The touring park operates alongside the farm, owned by Andrew and Claire Mather, supported by the invaluable help of two part-time cleaners.

The couple said they were ‘truly overwhelmed and thrilled to have been awarded the title of AA Small Campsite of the Year 2025-2026’.

Above: Claire and Andrew Mather celebrate Hallsdown Farm Touring Park receiving the AA Small Campsite of the Year award. Credit: Hallsdown Farm

They added: “Hallsdown Farm, a working sheep farm, began its journey in 2017 with the launch of a 20-pitch touring park as a way to diversify our farming operations.

“Our goal is to blend neat, manicured pitches with more natural areas that are friendly to wildlife, including a wildflower meadow and a pond.”

The AA listing describes the site as a ‘small and very peaceful adults-only park, tucked away in a lovely part of North Devon, close to Barnstaple, Exmoor and some dramatic coastline’.

Above: Hallsdown Farm promises peace and quiet for its guests. Credit: Hallsdown farm

Favourite features listed include the adults-only aspect, plus the well-maintained and nicely kept lawns and hedges on the site and describes it as ‘perfect for walking’.

Andrew and Claire said in keeping with their nature-friendly philosophy, they have installed a small wind turbine and recently added solar panels.

The park has also expanded its offering by introducing 10 luxury pitches, each equipped with its own ensuite toilet and shower.

The AA Caravan & Camping Awards celebrate 13 exceptional sites across the country, selected by the AA’s expert inspectors for their outstanding quality and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media, said: “British caravan and camping has never been more inspiring with parks across the country offering something truly special, from peaceful rural escapes to unforgettable coastal views.

“This year’s winners highlight the incredible variety and quality of outdoor stays in the UK, where passion, creativity and care combine to give holidaymakers experiences they’ll treasure. Congratulations to all the winners and their teams.”

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