About Marston Park
Marston Park is a unique creative retreat and events venue set around a Victorian-era landscaped lake in the Somerset countryside, midway between Frome and Bruton (marstonpark.co.uk ). Once the pleasure grounds of a country estate, today it blends rustic glamping with arts and conservation: the site promotes itself as “a playground for creativity with grown-up food & drink” (marstonpark.co.uk ). It has been converted into an immersive escape where guests stay in lakeside bell tents (called Canvas Studios and Suites) and even a 1960s Futuro “spaceship” pod, all designed to inspire artistic projects and relaxation (marstonpark.co.uk ) (marstonpark.co.uk ). The owners have restored the former parkland (originally laid out to designs by 18th-century landscape architects) into a jaw-droppingly picturesque setting with meadows, woodlands and leisure facilities (marstonpark.co.uk ) (www.theguardian.com ).
Visitors describe tent accommodations as fully equipped “glamping” units: each has a double bed, wood-burning stove, private fire pit and even en-suite amenities. One review notes each lakeside tent comes with “flushing toilets, hot showers and Bramley toiletries” and all the creature comforts of a luxury resort (www.theguardian.com ). In addition to bell tents (about 30 in total), Marston Park boasts unique structures like the Futuro House – a rare Finnish-designed round pod from the 1960s – which provides space-age lodging and can also double as a creative event space (marstonpark.co.uk ) (marstonpark.co.uk ). The site has spa facilities (including a cold plunge, sauna and hot tub), a Japanese restaurant (Hakko House), a cocktail lounge (Toniq Elements) and an award-winning bar (Outlaw) scattered around the lake (www.marstonpark.co.uk ) (www.marstonpark.co.uk ). With its mix of historic parkland and modern novelty architecture, Marston Park stands out as a special destination in the local scene.
Events and Programming
Marston Park is not a traditional theatre or concert hall, but it hosts a wide variety of creative events and festivals throughout the year. The seasonal calendar includes lakeside music weekends featuring DJs and live acts (“Outlaw” club nights on Thursdays–Saturdays), art exhibitions, wellness retreats, film screenings and performance art. For example, Marston Park partnered with Ibiza’s legendary Pikes nightclub to run long-weekend summer festivals with DJ sets, special guests and performances (marstonpark.co.uk ) (marstonpark.co.uk ). These weekend “staycation” events sell out quickly and often include the full glamping experience, gourmet feasts and workshops. Regular programming tends to include holistic workshops (yoga, sound baths, forest school for kids, meditation and hot-tub sessions by the on-site spa team) as well as community gatherings around bonfires or seasonal celebrations. In short, events range from family-friendly wellness days to late-night dance parties.
Notable past events have included the “Field of Light” art installation by Bruce Munro in summer 2022, where 30 lakeside bell tents were surrounded by glowing light sculptures (www.theguardian.com ). Typical performers are world-class DJs, indie bands and local talent — often outdoors under the stars. Many evenings see live DJ sets at the Outlaw bar or pop-up music from the Futuro House stage. Marston Park also hosts workshops and festivals in collaboration with local arts organisations. Most events will list ticket details on the official website; for example the Pikes festival weekends in 2021 had tickets (including 3-night tent stays) priced from around £1140 for two people (marstonpark.co.uk ). Smaller one-day or evening events might range from free community gatherings up to £50–£100 per ticket, depending on performers and length. Because capacity is limited by the site size, popular shows are often announced in advance with limited early bird presales.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at Marston Park are typically sold through the venue’s own website or newsletter announcements – there is no walk-up box office. Visitors should check marstonpark.co.uk or sign up for email alerts to know when ticket sales open. For large festival weekends (like the Pikes collaboration), tickets often include glamping accommodation as part of a package. For example, the 3-night Pikes events required a tent booking and were roughly £1140 per couple (marstonpark.co.uk ). Smaller events or day passes (when available) will be sold online and may sell out quickly due to low capacities. General daily entry or spa passes can also be booked through the site or front desk. There are usually several price tiers (standard vs VIP glamping, or early-bird vs regular), so plan well in advance for popular weekends. Barcel newsletters often list any presale passwords or special guest info, so consider following Marston Park’s social media or mailing list.
Booking Accommodation: Even outside of special events, Marston Park rents its bell tents and Futuro House cabin as glamping accommodation. Book these lodgings via the “Stay” section of the website. Daily slots for the spa and hot-tub experiences (run by Toniq Elements) also open for booking seasonally. All bookings include access to the venue’s bars, restaurant, showers and general facilities (though guests must arrange their own meals or rely on on-site dining) (marstonpark.co.uk ). Note that Marston Park is a cashless venue – credit or debit cards are needed for all on-site purchases.
Seating and Layout
Marston Park’s layout is entirely open-air and informal. There is no fixed auditorium or assigned seating – most gatherings take place on the lawns by the lake or under stretch tents. Guests should expect general admission or standing-room viewing. If you plan to watch a performance outdoors, it’s wise to bring your own low camp chair or picnic blanket. Some events may provide a few benches or standing decks, but generally you’ll sit on grass. The lagoon’s banks and glades offer unique vantage points: lakeside villages and meadow clearings are popular spots. So wherever you set up by the water or in a leafy glade, sightlines are largely unobstructed in the natural amphitheatre. (If you have limited mobility, note there are some level pathways around the main lawn area, but access can be uneven on grass.)
The main lawn often serves as the performance zone. Small stages or DJ booths are portable setups that get erected depending on the event. For example, during festival weekends a marquee or gazebo might host a DJ, while wrists places and fire pits become focus points in the glamping area. Along the lake’s edge you’ll find permanent structures: a waterside bar and the Outlaw club, plus a converted horsebox food truck. The Futuro pod can also be used as an intimate performance or listening room on occasion. In summary, Marston Park is a walk-around venue: the entire grounds are part of the experience.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Marston Park is located on Tuckmarsh Lane, just off the A361 between Frome and Bruton, Somerset. The postcode is BA11 5BP. It’s easily accessed by car: from the M4 take the Bath/A36 route or from the M3/A303 route via Shaftesbury. Travel times are roughly 30–45 minutes from Bath or Yeovil, and about an hour from Bristol or Salisbury. The setting is rural, so it’s best found with sat nav or map apps.
Parking: Ample free parking is available on-site. For guests it’s simply a short walk through the park to the glamp village or event spaces. During large events staff may direct cars into shepherd’s fields nearby, but there is no separate parking charge. If you are not driving, the car park area is still the main drop-off; it’s walkable (5-10 minutes) from there to the heart of the venue.
Public Transport: No direct public transit stops at Marston Park. The nearest railway station is Frome (about 4 miles north). From Frome Station you can take a taxi or rideshare to the site (roughly a 10-minute drive). There are local buses along the A361 – for example Stagecoach services linking Bath–Westbury–Frome and Glastonbury–Mere–Glastonbury that stop in villages 2–3 miles away – but these are infrequent. In practice, most visitors driving from Bath or Bristol will hire a car or cab. If you must take public transit, plan to get off in Frome or Bruton town and catch a taxi for the remaining few miles.
Inside the Venue
Arrival & Security: When you enter Marston Park, expect a friendly check-in atmosphere rather than a locked stadium gate. Staff at a reception kiosk will welcome overnight guests and stamp wristbands for event ticket-holders. Standard checks (bag search, etc.) may apply for large events, but security is generally relaxed. There is no cloakroom – guests leave belongings in their tents or shuffle bags around. Think festival casual. Dogs on leads, for example, are allowed (but see policies below).
Atmosphere: The vibe at Marston Park is creative and communal. Daytime activities might include outdoor spa sessions (sunbathing or dipping in the “wild” swimming pool), arts workshops, little markets, or simply lounging by the lake. As the sun sets, the ambience turns festive: string lights or fire torches glow, and DJs at the Outlaw bar spin into the night (www.hipcamp.com ). Fire pits crackle, and people often gather lakeside around bonfires or driftwood lounges. Evenings at the bar can feel like a mini-festival – bring a warm jacket and perhaps some glitter or fancy dress, especially if there’s a theme. (Marston events often encourage creative outfits – one newsletter quipped “there’s no outfit too fancy, no sequin too sparkly” for their karaoke nights (marstonpark.co.uk ).)
Food & Drink: Marston Park is self-catering-free: guests are not expected to bring cooking gear. On-site food options are plentiful. The dedicated restaurant, Hakko House , serves Japanese cuisine (including sushi and ramen) for lunch and dinner (www.marstonpark.co.uk ), and the lakeside Toniq Elements bar offers cocktails, wines and small plates during daytime and early evening (www.marstonpark.co.uk ). The main Outlaw bar stays open late with beers and cocktails by the fire. During special events or on busy weekends you’ll also find pop-up food trucks parked around: in recent summers there have been wood-fired pizza ovens, Thai/Latin street-food vendors, artisan picnics and BBQ stalls (marstonpark.co.uk ). In short, you can buy most meals and snacks on-site, though menus can skew upscale. (Tip: Dinner reservations at Hakko are wise for festival weekends.)
Restrooms & Facilities: Despite the tent setting, facilities are surprisingly modern. Each camping hut has flush toilets and hot showers (www.theguardian.com ). These are housed in shepherd’s-hut style cabins dotted through the site, so you’ll rarely need to walk far. There are also sinks and changing rooms by the spa area. The whole site has complimentary wheelbarrow transfers for luggage on request (for glampers). Free Wi-Fi covers most common areas, so you can stream music or check schedules between sets (camplinq.com ). Note that Marston Park is cashless – all food, drink and event sales are card only. (Electric vehicle charging stations are not currently listed on-site.)
Nearby Amenities
While Marston Park has much of what you need, it’s a bit isolated so plan ahead. The nearest town is Frome (about 8–10 minutes’ drive or 25 minutes on foot). Frome offers a wide range of pubs, restaurants and shops. Recommended local eateries include highly-rated places like Little Foxes or The River House (for gourmet British fare), or casual pubs like the Blue Note brewery taproom. There’s also a Tesco and petrol station on Marston Road just north of Frome for any camping supplies. In Bruton (7 miles southwest) you’ll find amenities including a Spar supermarket, pub/inns like The Bickley and Knole, and even a Michelin-starred restaurant (The Real Pig). For accommodation outside the park, Frome has a few B&Bs and small hotels (e.g. The George Hotel), while luxury options near Bruton include the boutique Newt Hotel or Wingfield Manor B&B.
Travel Tips: Arrive at least an hour before a scheduled event to pick parking and find your tent or seat in daylight. Evenings at Marston Park end relatively early (bars often close around midnight), so evening trains/buses may be limited. Plan your pick-up or overnight stay accordingly. Rideshare apps (Uber, Bolt) work if you’re in range of a train station; otherwise local taxis (for example Frome Taxis on 07891 624038) can be arranged. The site encourages guests to carpool if possible, especially for festival weekends.
What Makes this Venue Special
Marston Park’s charm comes from its blend of history, nature and whimsy. Architecturally and culturally, nothing else is quite like it. The focal Futuro House pod alone makes headlines – this 1968 Finnish design is one of only two in the UK you can actually stay in (marstonpark.co.uk ). Sleeping in that round “spaceship” and gazing at the countryside through its porthole windows truly feels like a journey to another world (marstonpark.co.uk ). Likewise, the tensely curated art installations set up here make spending a night memorable – for example, Bruce Munro’s Field of Light exhibited thousands of glowing globes in 2022 that guests camped amidst (www.theguardian.com ).
On a larger scale, Marston Park is significant to the community. It revives Victorian gardens once tended by famous landscape architects (the park traces back to Marston House laid out in 1720s) (www.parksandgardens.org ) (www.parksandgardens.org ). Local cultural groups often use it for performances or wellness retreats. For artists, it’s a creative haven – each tent is literally equipped with an easel, guitar and art materials to encourage visitors to “do a piece of work” or compose music. And the owners’ commitment is personal: one of them (Charlie Bonham-Christie) is part of the family that owned this land since 1905 (www.theguardian.com ), so it feels like a labour of love rather than a faceless resort. In practice, Marston Park is beloved by guests for its friendly vibe, scenic sunsets (many tout the golden glow from Outlaw Bar as “next level” scenery (wanderlog.com )), and the sense you’re staying in a living canvas. Artists and audiences alike appreciate it precisely because it’s not a typical concert venue – it’s a lakeside picnic commune for the culturally curious.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The owners strive to be inclusive: most on-site facilities have level entry. However, the terrain is natural and grassy (with some gentle slopes), so wheelchair access is limited to main areas. Guests with mobility needs should contact staff ahead to arrange assistance. Toilets include one or two disability-accessible cabins.
What to Bring: Because events happen outdoors, pack for all seasons. Even summer nights can be cool by the lake – bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes. During sunny days you’ll want sunblock, a hat and a refillable water bottle (tap water is fine to drink). A low camping chair or picnic blanket is very useful for watching performances. Don’t forget earplugs for late-night DJ sets or if you’re a light sleeper in the tents. If you plan on swimming, bring swimwear and a towel for the wild swimming pool (in winter the pool doesn’t operate). The venue provides bedding and basic toiletries, so you don’t need to bring sheets or soap (except insect repellant in summer). Phones generally get 3G/4G signal here, and Wi-Fi is available at the main glamp office and spa (camplinq.com ), but it can be spotty in the woods – consider downloading maps or tickets in advance.
Public Policies: Marston Park is a dog- and family-friendly venue. Well-behaved dogs (up to two per booking) are welcome on leads (marstonpark.co.uk ). Children of all ages are allowed on most days and are even catered to (there’s a kids’ forest school and trampoline). However, note that certain events – for example the adults-only Pikes weekends – restrict entry to over-18s. The site is cashless and card-only, so no cash is needed. Smoking (including vaping) is usually restricted to outdoors in designated areas away from tents. Outside food is discouraged (you’ll find many food options on-site), but packing snacks and water is fine. Regarding health and safety rituals, Marston Park asks that guests refrain from damaging any flora/fauna or bringing fireworks. Photography for personal use is generally allowed – it’s a photogenic place! – but professional filming should be cleared with management in advance.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: Plan your arrival time – parking can be confusing in the dark. Check event start times carefully (some events begin in the late afternoon, while bar nights start around 6pm). Days can be scorching even if nights are cool, so dress in layers. Don’t rely on Wi-Fi; have a backup plan for stay safe. If you’re glamping, don’t book anything too heavy in your tent – it’s safer to lock valuables in your car or use the provided storage boxes. Finally, observe quiet hours: after the bars close (usually around midnight), the park becomes very peaceful.
On-Site Rules and Tips: All tents have real beds and stoves, but no cooking facilities – that means no open flames/cooking equipment in your tent. Eating is confined to outdoor picnic areas or the main restaurant. If you have an evening event ticket, note that bar service may stop well before midnight on weekdays. TIP: Early booking of restaurant or spa slots is wise during busy periods. As one guest advised, bring on-site spending (cards only) and “head to Outlaw Bar at sunset” for the best view and cocktails (wanderlog.com ). Many visitors say the whole experience feels relaxed and safe, so relax and enjoy the creative community atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book tickets or accommodation at Marston Park?
All bookings (whether for glamping or special event tickets) are handled online via the Marston Park website. There is no walk-up box office. Watch the official site and newsletter for sale dates. Major events like the Pikes weekends often sell out fast, so it’s best to book as soon as tickets are announced.
What is the cost of tickets or stays at Marston Park?
Pricing varies widely by event. For example, a three-night glamping weekend (with full entertainment) ran around £1140 for two adults (marstonpark.co.uk ). Day events or evening concerts might cost £10–£50 depending on artists. Glamping tents start around £150–£300 per night (for two people) in low season. Always check the current event page for exact prices and any package deals.
Is seating provided at Marston Park events, or should I bring something?
There is no fixed seating in the outdoor areas – events are standing/general admission. We recommend you bring a low camp chair or picnic blanket if you prefer to sit on the ground. A few benches are located by the bar and dining area, but otherwise guests sit or stand on the lawns by the lake. Think of it like a casual outdoor festival setup.
Where exactly is Marston Park and how do I get there?
Marston Park is on Tuckmarsh Lane, Frome, Somerset, postcode BA11 5BP. By car it’s easiest to follow sat nav or signs for Marston near Frome – it’s about 8 miles south of Frome town centre. If you're coming by train, the nearest station is Frome; from there a taxi or rideshare is recommended (around 10 minutes’ drive). Local buses run nearby on the A361 but they are infrequent, so most visitors drive or take a cab.
Is parking available and is there a fee?
Yes. Marston Park provides plenty of on-site parking which is free for guests and ticket-holders. There is no separate parking charge. During larger events, marshals may guide cars into adjacent fields, but these are still considered part of the venue’s parking area. Just park and walk in (shuttle wheelbarrow loads to tents if needed).
Can I bring children or pets to Marston Park?
Marston Park is generally family- and dog-friendly. Children of all ages can attend most days – there’s a dedicated children’s forest school and family camping spaces. Dogs (up to two per group) are welcome on leads (marstonpark.co.uk ). However, some special events (for example adults-only festival weekends) do exclude minors. Always check the specific event’s age rules. Note that loud music may run late into the night on party weekends, so plan quiet time for young children or sensitive pets.
What food and drink options can I expect on site?
On-site dining is one of Marston Park’s highlights. The Hakko House Japanese restaurant offers lunch and dinner (sushi, ramen, etc.) (www.marstonpark.co.uk ). The Toniq Elements bar serves cocktails, beer, wine and light bites in its lakeside cafe area (www.marstonpark.co.uk ). The Outlaw bar (open Thu–Sat) has a full drinks menu late into the evening. During festivals, food trucks and pop-up stalls appear too – recent guests enjoyed wood-fired pizza, Thai and Mediterranean street food and gourmet picnics (marstonpark.co.uk ). There is no guest kitchen, so plan to buy meals there or dine at local pubs in Frome.
Can I bring my own food or alcohol?
Outside catering is generally discouraged. The venue banks on its own food trucks and restaurant, so aside from small snacks, it’s best to buy food and drink on site. Soft drinks and water are provided (and you can refill bottles at taps), but petalockers. Alcohol outside the bar’s offerings is not allowed. Bringing a picnic rug is fine, but barbecues or personal gas stoves in guest areas are prohibited.
What bathroom and shower facilities are there?
Modern flush toilets and hot showers are available in private cabins near the camping area (www.theguardian.com ). Unlike basic campsites, the lavatories at Marston Park feel like spa changing rooms. Restrooms are cleaned regularly and there are always accessible stalls available. If you stay in the glampsite, your tent is a short walk from a full bathroom. Toilet paper and soap are stocked – just bring personal items (towels and toiletries are provided in glamping bookings).
Is there Wi-Fi or cell coverage?
Wi-Fi is available in common areas (reception, spa and dining lounge) and is free for guests (camplinq.com ). Coverage can be spotty in remote glade spots due to the woodland environment. We recommend downloading any maps or tickets in advance. Mobile data (3G/4G) reaches some parts of the park as well, but don’t count on streaming video smoothly. Treat the stay as a digital break and enjoy the unplugged atmosphere!
Is Marston Park wheelchair accessible?
Marston Park has some accessible features (hard paths in key areas, accessible toilets), but many areas are grassy or uneven. Wheelchair users can access the main bar, dining area and some parts of the spa. If you have specific mobility needs, contact the venue in advance – they may be able to set up temporary ramps or close-door service. The glamping platform tents themselves are not wheelchair-friendly.
What is the Futuro House at Marston Park?
The Futuro House is a retro-futuristic rental pod on the grounds – essentially a round, UFO-like vacation chalet designed in Finland in the 1960s. It’s been painstakingly restored and brought to Marston Park (marstonpark.co.uk ). Inside you’ll find 1960s-style decor with two sleeping cabins, a kitchenette, vintage seating and mood lighting. It’s one of only a handful of Futuro structures you can actually stay in worldwide. It offers a private, space-age glamping experience, and can also be booked as an event or meeting space when not used for lodging (marstonpark.co.uk ).
What is the “Field of Light” at Marston Park?
The Field of Light is a temporary art installation by Bruce Munro that was displayed at Marston Park. It consisted of thousands of illuminated spheres arranged in clusters by the lake and woods (www.theguardian.com ). Campers would sleep among these glowing “light gardens” as part of a special summer event. It’s not a permanent exhibit, but such creative light displays are typical of Marston Park’s artistic programming. (Check the events page to see if it returns in future seasons.)
Can I swim in the lake at Marston Park?
You should NOT swim in the main lake (it’s home to carp and pike, so it’s best to admire it from shore). However, Marston Park has built a protected “wild swimming pool” area so guests can take a dip safely (marstonpark.co.uk ). The pool is open in summer (check on-site signs or staff for availability). Always follow posted rules and life jacket recommendations when using the pool.
What weather and clothing should I expect?
Expect typical British countryside weather: even summer nights can get chilly. Dress in layers and bring rain protection. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are better than flip-flops on uneven ground. For daytime music or spa, pack sunblock and a hat. Come prepared with a jacket or sweater for evening events. If rain is forecast, waterproof layers and ponchos will keep you comfortable at outdoor shows. In general, festival-casual attire is fine – feel free to wear colourful or waterproof gear as needed.
What should I bring to enhance my Marston Park experience?
Aside from comfortable clothes and weather gear (see above), consider bringing a low chair or cushion for sitting on the grass, a refillable water bottle (taps are available), and a phone power bank if you’ll be outdoors all day. Earplugs can help with loud music at night. A portable yellow glowstick or fairy lights adds fun to evenings. If you love to explore, bring hiking footwear and binoculars – the 40-acre grounds have walking trails. And don’t forget your camera to capture the magical lakeside lights and architecture!
