Mendip Activity Centre, a part of the Mendip Adventure group, has been confirmed as a major economic driver for the North Somerset and wider Mendip Hills area, according to a new independent economic impact report by The South West Research Company Ltd.
Over a 12-month period (March 2024 to February 2025), Mendip Activity Centre and its campsite Mendip Basecamp welcomed 108,000 visitors, delivering a total of 165,000 visitor days. This footfall translated into a £3.26 million boost in business turnover for the local economy and supported the equivalent of 122 full-time jobs.
A Key Player in the Rural Economy
The analysis found that Mendip Activity Centre generates:
- £1.16 million in direct visitor spending in the local area, including food, drink, retail and transport
- £2.1 million in additional supply chain and wage-based spending
- A total business turnover contribution of £3.26 million, generating £1.8 million in Gross Value Added (GVA)
David Eddins, CEO of Mendip Adventure said: “I was shocked to read the results of this report! As an independent and family-run business, we’re proud to be delivering year-round jobs, driving footfall to local businesses, and giving families, schools, and groups unforgettable experiences and inspiring adventures. This report validates the importance of tourism and experience-based businesses to the local and national economy.”
Supporting Local Jobs
The report highlights that 101 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs are supported directly by Mendip-related activity, with a further 21 roles supported indirectly or through induced spend. These jobs span education, tourism, operations, catering and local suppliers.
The report states: “The total estimated business turnover in the local area arising as a result of Mendip Activity Centre and their visitors’ activity both in and away from the centre was approximately £3.3 million.”
It also found:“101 direct FTE jobs are supported by Mendip Activity Centre-related activity in the local area, rising to a total of 122 FTE jobs when indirect and induced employment is also considered.”
National and Local Appeal
Mendip Activity Centre’s audience is both regional and national:
- 57% of public visitors had a ‘BS’ postcode
- 34% came from elsewhere in the South West
- 9% travelled from other parts of the UK
Satisfaction, Sustainability and Social Value
Visitors consistently rated their experience highly. 93% of public visitors and 95% of group visitors said they were likely or very likely to return, with the centre receiving a Net Promoter Score of +72% (public) and +81% (groups).
- 66% of public visitors and 72% of group visitors rated the centre’s sustainability efforts as good or very good
- 69% of public visitors and 76% of group visitors rated its accessibility as good or very good
- Around 1 in 10 public visitors were visiting with someone who had a disability
About Mendip Adventure
Mendip Adventure is a family-run and independently-owned outdoor activity provider, and one of the largest in the UK. Based in the Mendip Hills National Landscape, Mendip Adventure connects people to the outdoors through its diverse family of brands: Mendip Activity Centre, Mendip Basecamp, SUP Bristol, Outdoor Instructor Training and YHA Cheddar.
Founded over 35 years ago, Mendip Adventure delivers adventurous experiences for schools, families, youth groups, individuals and organisations. Its flagship site, Mendip Activity Centre, spans 250 acres and offers over 20 year-round instructor-led activities alongside a campsite, Mendip Basecamp, which won Silver at the 2025 Visit England Awards. SUP Bristol provides award-winning paddleboarding sessions in the heart of Bristol’s historic harbour.
Mendip Adventure’s mission is to inspire everyone, everywhere to make time for adventure. They continue to play a leading role in shaping the South West’s adventure tourism and outdoor learning landscape.
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