ABOUT US

The Dell sits within the beautiful Bereleigh Estate in the heart of the Meon Valley – 2,500 acres of rolling farmland, ancient woodland and sweeping views towards the South Downs.

The story begins with Cedar Valley, the glamping and camping site founded over 15 years ago by Jack Tyrwhitt-Drake. What started as a handful of safari tents has grown into a much-loved destination for families, walkers and holidaymakers travelling from London, the South Coast and beyond.

Over time, Cedar Valley became known not only for its peaceful setting, but also for its characterful additions. Among them were Boycie, a vintage double-decker bus transformed into a café, and Ricicle, a beautifully restored Rice horsebox serving wood-fired pizzas. These two quickly became favourites among guests and hinted at the possibility of something more.

Summer season
Summer season

In 2021, Jack and his wife Emily brought those ideas together and created The Dell – a relaxed gathering place nestled beneath a canopy of magnificent beech trees at the heart of the estate.

What began with Boycie and Ricicle soon evolved into a welcoming space for guests and locals alike. Today visitors can enjoy wood-fired pizzas, excellent coffee from Winchester Coffee Roasters, and a selection of homemade treats from the café, alongside Hampshire ales, ciders, wines and soft drinks from the Beech Bar.

The Dell has always been designed with families in mind. Children can dig in the sandpit, experiment in the mud kitchen and roam freely beneath the trees, while parents relax with something delicious to eat and drink in the sunshine.

In August 2024, a devastating fire destroyed much of The Dell, including Ricicle and several of the original structures. But the spirit of the place remained strong. Rebuilt and reimagined, The Dell returned with a beautiful tipi that now houses the Beech Bar, along with new spaces designed for gathering, dining and events.

Today, The Dell welcomes both our camping guests and the wider community. Whether you’re stopping by for coffee, pizza, a drink with friends or one of our seasonal events, it remains what it was always intended to be – a relaxed and welcoming spot beneath the beech trees where people can come together.

We look forward to welcoming you.