A Family Farm with a Warm Welcome

This page is here to share the history and memories of Alston Farm, so you can see how it became the relaxed and much-loved campsite it is today.

Alston Campsite was founded in 1961 by Alec Shepherd. At the time, it was one of the only campsites in the area, opening shortly after the main Salcombe campsite at Beadon was closed for housing development. Hundreds of families came to enjoy simple summers by the seaside, staying in small tents and early statics – many of which didn’t even include their own toilet or shower.

Some of those visitors now return with their own children and grandchildren, sharing childhood memories of fresh milk from the farm’s dairy cows, feeding orphaned lambs, and hearing the familiar knock for daily rent collection. These small touches are part of what made Alston special then – and still do now.

As time passed, the campsite grew and evolved. In 1993, Alec’s son Phil Shepherd took over the running of the site after Alec passed away. Phil – known fondly as Farmer Phil – managed the site with care and pride, working alongside his daughter Penny for many years. Together, they welcomed generations of visitors and maintained the peaceful, no-fuss charm that Alston has always been known for.

In September 2022, Phil sadly passed away suddenly. His loss was felt deeply by his family and the many loyal visitors who had come to know him over the years. True to form, Phil was working right up to his final hours. His presence, humour and warmth will be missed more than words can say – but we will continue to share the stories and memories he loved to pass on.

Penny now continues to run the campsite in the spirit she and her father shared, with the support of family and friends who have been part of Alston for many years. While we’ll continue to make gentle improvements to the site, we remain committed to keeping the same laid-back, friendly feel that’s made this a favourite South Hams camping spot for over 60 years.