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I'm reluctant to leave a review of this site because I want to claim it all for my own! I was a little dubious about this site due to some contrary reviews and also having three very young sons, with no facilities but I am so glad we risked it.
It is gorgeous and only one word for it. Tranquil. It is possibly one of the loveliest sites we have ever visited, and we've been touring for some years now. The thing we love about this site is the fact it is so peaceful and relaxing. It also offers excellent size pitches, many of which give a sense of privacy and an abundance of wildlife within the heart of the forest. I have a truly lovely picture of my three cubs looking out of the caravan window one morning, bird, squirrel and rabbit spotting then that night we had a herd of deer magically play in the woods, directly infront of our van. What more can one wish for for the wonderment of childhood. Memories created to last a lifetime.
The fact it had no facilities simply added to it's charm and relaxed feel, no rushing for showers or waiting in cold cubicles. It really did leave one feeling quite energised and keen to return.
Finally the staff, being caravan club members we are not used to friendly, approachable and receptive staff! The staff here were all of that and then some, they really are a credit to the place. They are relaxed and not overbearing yet helpful and accommodating whilst ensuring their few but important rules are adhered to.
So the downsides. Erm, well, mmmmm. Nope, can't think of any. Oh yes it's wooded, it's the heart of the forest so don't expect vast open expanses of sunlit land! Instead, you'll be wrapped up in woodland and kept enchanted for your entire 'heart of the forest' stay.
Very good site, right inside the new forest boundary, large and spread out into ' areas' mostly in the woods, choice of pine woods up the top of the hill or oak woods lower down plus more. Very simple landscaping, the woods are the feature, and if you prefer open views it may not be for you, but if you love birds all around and the ' in the woods' feeling you'll love it. Good electric hook up an option, nice pitch sizes, Dog walkers and cyclists paradise, lots of big wide gravel dirt tracks surrounding and interlinking all around the site with direct access, also leading to open heathland over the single road and beyond, which is very picturesque and interesting. Slight traffic noise from the little road but the leaves arent out on the trees yet and it was raining, so don't think you'd notice it in summer, overall very clean nice quiet site. No loos or showers, its bring your own, but enough water and waste stations dotted about, so you don't have to walk far. Site office and wardens very nice and helpful, credit to the forest. The only thing I would take next time is a better outside carpet, broom and leveller, as our pitch had a slight slope to it that we didn't get level just using its own feet. Being woody mud it tends to dry quickly and brush off better than clay. I gave it a 9/10 only because we have a favourite new forest site, which has a bit of everything, and couldn't be disloyal!
We chose this site as it was not too far to drive and in the New Forest.
We arrived in the dark, it was not easy to find the pitch but next time we visit we will make sure we arrive when there is some daylight left.
The staff were friendly and helpful pitches are large and set in the trees, we even had a pick nick table. It didn’t feel like a large site which was a nice change from some places we have visited.
As usual we had our dog and as described in other reviews this is doggy heaven you can walk or cycle into the forest, you are never sure where the site ends as there is no fence.
The peace and quite was great apart from the magpie pecking on the window. Plenty of water and waste points and that was all we needed.
This was our first time on Forest Holiday Campsite and it will not be the last.
We visited this site after actually booking a different site nearby that we found to exposed due to windy weather conditions.
We called first in the car to check it out and found the wardens very friendly and helpful. We then were allowed to drive around and take a look at the pitches. They only had the more expensive 'select pitches' left, but we did, nt mind, we just wanted to get on with our holiday !
The pitches were actually very spacious and had a private kind of feel to them, probably due to the nature of the site ( lots of tree, s, bushes, etc ) To be able to just walk straight into the forest from your caravan door felt great, especially with our 2 dogs to exercise. Also we loved the atmosphere in the early evening when it was just starting to go dark and our awning would look all nice and cosy in soft lights and candles. We found the location also very good for visiting the attractions of the area without driving to far, my personal favourite being ' hengisbury head ' with all its gorgeous little beach holiday homes.
The only negative I can say is if you like lots of sun then that's a bit of a problem with all the tree, s that surround you and also they have no shower or toilet facilities but to be honest that did, nt bother us, it was our first time on a 'forest site ' and we found it a interesting and enjoyable new experience.
We have just returned from a setthorns select pitch, a beautiful forest location, no showers or toilets but for me that just attracts better campers! and this seemed true, no noise, parties etc! just peace and quiet.
I 'selected' the select pitch after noting that it was larger, after staying at other forest holiday sites I know that the standard and premium pitches can be tight for a caravan + awning, our select pitch was a good size and we were lucky getting one that had fewer trees for more sun but that didn't make much difference as the sun didn't shine much!
Rock pegs are a must for the hardstandings.
Wildlife is a feature. Including finding a toad in a shoe!
As always the Forest Holiday sites have something about them that is great. Here there aren't any toilet/shower facilities but the setting makes up for it.
The site is obviously within a forest area but is next to a large heathland too. The site covers quite a large area, but is compartmentalised so you never feel hemmed in, and as mentioned before there are no obvious boundaries.
The pitches are large and there are plenty of water and disposal points about. I went with my 7 year old who loved the woodland walks and going around on his bike, though the only playground is the forest (no bad thing I suppose).
On the first afternoon we saw a large deer bouncing down the track. There are cycle tracks from the site, but I felt that to really explore the area you are best off driving out and back.
I have stayed at Hollands Wood before and there is definitely a different and more relaxed vibe about Setthorns.
I'd happily go back if there wasn't other sites to explore or try out!
We have lost count of the amount of times we have visited this beautiful site! I have been going there since I was a child and it has retained its charm. It has been updated through the years with the fantastic Select sites with picnic tables and larger pitches.
The pitches are scattered among the trees and you feel that you are really back to nature.
The disused railway runs past the site and is perfect for cycling with young children.
The site is the perfect location for exploring the New Forest and is very close to the beautiful town of Brockenhurst and there is a fantastic market on Saturday morning in Lymington, which is not too far away.
Only downside is no facilities but we always think that what helps maintain its charm!
Just returned from Setthorns, our hottest weekend this year! On the plus side; If you're looking for wildlife then this is the site for you. Wild horses grazing all over, rabbits and squirrels running around and the odd owl at night. Chemical toilet facilities clean and easy to use and drinking water readily available. There were no toilets available which we were aware of, they will physically check your chem toilet on arrival.
However were we were unaware until paid that there is a disused railway line that runs through the middle of the site which, no matter where you pitch/park, you will be aware of the general public using. Practically every pitch has a road in front of or to the side of, which is very disturbing as cars and bikes kick up dust as they go by.
Pitches are uneven or rough with sawn tree trunks, which I guess you can kind of expect for anywhere in the forest.
For some reason we were charged £14 for a night in April which was steep I thought for this time of year and after reading the tariff it should have been £8.50. However we didn't have a receipt and paid cash so didn't bother contesting, they may have refunded or explained the charge therefore I'm not putting them down for this more saying make sure you get a receipt or get a firm price before paying.
Overall if your looking for a bit of peace and quiet this may not be for you, the best bit was the roaming wildlife :)
We spent Easter at Setthorns. It is a lovely forest site with plenty of walks to explore. It is in a central forest position so is easy to explore the rest of the forest by car.
On a negative point-there were a few dogs allowed to run off lead and there were a few dogs barking without being checked.
The pitches are well spaced out so you have plenty of room to spread out.
There are no toilet or shower facilities but has water and chemical points that are easily accessible.
Generally we find the forest sites very pretty but quite expensive for what you get-but would return.
Just returned from a winter weekend away here. Reception staff were very helpful and directed us to the area's we could use, standard pitch.
Most area's seem to be EHU, but we chose not to. Pitches are well spaced out, including those with EHU. Really enjoyed the fact that you are actually amongst the trees and woodland, not a large clearing. Like some of the other forestry sites.
Felt very private/roomy. Site seemed 1/4 full. Struggled to get 9' steel pegs to secure in the ground, very stony, and felt lucky their was no wind. Site is extremely well drain considering time of year.
Enjoyed local walks and Christchurch, Bournemouth and Poole a short drive.
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Common Questions
Is Setthorns Camping In The New Forest child friendly? YES, it accepts children View all facilities
Where is the nearest shop to Setthorns Camping In The New Forest? There is a shop within 5 miles View all facilities
Is Setthorns Camping In The New Forest dog friendly? YES View all facilities
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
All reviews and comments are the personal opinion of the review author only , and as such do not represent the view of the UK Camp Site.co.uk.
The facilities shown on this website are a guide only, and you should check with the campsite direct before making any booking. The UKCampsite.co.uk will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions
Tent Pitches 
Caravan Pitches 
Motorhome Pitches 
Small Campervans 
No Glamping Units 
No Statics for Hire 
No Statics for Sale 
Seasonal Pitches 
Electric Hookups 
Hardstanding Pitches 
No Fully Serviced Pitches 
Families Welcome 
Not Members Only 
No Rallies 
Not Naturist Site 
Dogs Welcome 
No Dogs Allowed 
Groups Welcome 
No Toilets 
No Showers 
No Washing Up Area 
No Bathroom 
No Baby Changing 
No Laundry 
Drinking Water 
Disabled Friendly 
Chemical Disposal 
No Battery Charging 
No Gas Exchange 
Recycling Facilities 
No Kitchen Facilities 
No Freezer / Fridge 
No Motorhome Point 
No Wifi Access 
Shop <5 miles 
Bar <1 mile 
Restaurant or Cafe or Takeaway <1 mile 
No Playground 
No TV Room 
No Games Room 
No Evening Ents 
Fishing <5 miles 
No Wild Swimming 
No Indoor Pool 
No Outdoor Pool 
Horse Riding <5 miles 
No Cycle Hire 
No Golf 
No Tennis 
Beach <10 miles 
Watersports <10 miles 
Boat Launch / Mooring <10 miles 
No Sea Views 
Not Working Farm 
No Campfires Allowed 
Open All Year 
No Waterside Pitches 
Public Transport <5 miles
Offroad Dog Walk On Site or Direct Access 
I'm reluctant to leave a review of this site because I want to claim it all for my own! I was a little dubious about this site due to some contrary reviews and also having three very young sons, with no facilities but I am so glad we risked it. 
