A camping and glamping business in North Devon has been recognized among the highest-rated outdoor accommodation providers in the United Kingdom after receiving perfect customer review scores in the 2025 Pitchup.com awards.
South Ford Farm Camping and Glamping, located near South Molton, was named one of only two farm-based campsites in the UK to achieve a perfect 10 out of 10 rating on the outdoor accommodation booking platform.
The rankings were based on customer reviews submitted throughout 2025. The other campsite to receive the same distinction was Wimbleball Holidays, located near Dulverton in Somerset.
Pitchup.com evaluates camping, glamping, and caravan destinations across a range of categories, including location, value for money, facilities, activities, customer service, child friendliness, cleanliness, and WiFi availability. The review-based awards are designed to reflect guest experiences and satisfaction levels across the platform.
South Ford Farm Camping and Glamping opened in the summer of 2021 after owners Christian and Tina Childs relocated from London to North Devon in December 2020. The move came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when travel restrictions and uncertainty prompted many tourism and hospitality operators to reassess business opportunities closer to home.
According to NorthDevonToday, years of camping trips in Devon inspired the family’s decision to purchase a small farm and pursue a long-held goal of establishing a camping business.
During its first two years of operation, the site welcomed guests under the UK’s “28-day rule,” which allows landowners to operate temporary tent campsites without full planning permission. After obtaining the necessary approvals, the business expanded its offering and now provides 16 tent pitches, three motorhome pitches, and two glamping shepherd’s huts.
The site also offers amenities that have become increasingly important to modern campers, including hot showers, permanent restroom facilities, WiFi access, USB charging points, and fire pits available for hire.
The combination of traditional outdoor experiences and practical guest services reflects a broader trend within the outdoor hospitality sector, where operators are seeking to balance nature-focused stays with customer expectations for convenience and connectivity.
In addition to its Pitchup.com recognition, South Ford Farm Camping and Glamping has maintained a 5 out of 5 rating on Airbnb. Guest reviews have highlighted the site’s family-oriented atmosphere, cleanliness, and outdoor setting, with several visitors noting its suitability for children and the availability of WiFi.
Christian and Tina said: “Here you can sit back and relax listen to the birds sing while watching the sheep graze, watch the pigs foraging and relaxing in their pool, or you can paddle in our river beach and play in the small play park area, or just enjoy the amazing sunsets.
“We believe the reviews are all down to the fact we love meeting our guests and have a positive look of life. It’s the small personal touches to make everyone’s visits to South Ford Farm memorable, fun and a safe environment for the whole family.”
Dan Yates, founder of Pitchup.com, said the success of farm-based campsites in the West Country reflects the region’s longstanding connection to both agriculture and tourism.
He said: “With the West Country’s shared heritage in agriculture and tourism, it’s no surprise enterprising farmers are combining the two very well indeed.
“Wimbleball Holidays and South Ford Farm Camping have taken this to the next level and got their offering just right to score 10 out of 10 across the board with customer reviews.
“They are the only two farm-based campsites on Pitchup.com to do that, and it is a fantastic achievement.”
For campground, glamping, caravan park, and RV resort operators, the recognition highlights the growing importance of customer experience in driving positive reviews and repeat visitation.
As competition increases across the outdoor hospitality market, factors such as cleanliness, responsive customer service, reliable connectivity, and personalized guest interactions continue to play a significant role in influencing guest satisfaction and online ratings.