This was our 5th visit here in the past 18 months and the reason why we keep returning? It is because generally it is a superb stay. Several previous comments on here go on about being turned away if you arrive early. My answer - don't turn up before 1pm which is the book in time so serves you right!!! - Yes, you might have come a distance and I appreciate it is difficult to judge, but park up nearby. The wardens are busy people and do a good job. We arrived around 1.30pm and was met by a friendly warden at the gate, I checked in to an even friendlier warden and chose a grass pitch on the east side, the other side of the road. Although the site was busy there was still plenty of spots. We plotted up and let the wardens know where we were staying. All I can say about them is they were busy friendly people. The amount of rubbish placed in the bins, they were even emptying them at 8pm!! The toilet and shower blocks even though getting a little outdated were clean and tidy. The worst thing about the stay were the people with yappy dogs!! All day at everybody who when within 50 feet. The owners turned a blind eye. If my visit was longer I would have reported to the wardens but as they were so busy I didn't on this occasion. All I can say is try it, the lake and surrounds are closeby and perfect.