The current Belfry is the seventh building owned by the club and has been built to stand the test of time.
There is a large main room with sofas, and a well equipped kitchen area. The table is large enough to accommodate even big groups eating together and was made out of the remains of the last Belfry that burnt down.
The bunk room has alpine bunks, clean covers and pillows.
Our changing facilities offer hot showers and a large drying room with a dehumidifier.
Members
Any BEC Member can use the Belfry and stay there without the prior knowledge of the Hut Warden. Members are entitled to bring a one or two guests but they should be accompanied and pay the guest rate. If Members plan to bring more than two guests they should book this through the Belfry Booking system.
Non Members
Clearly other parties are requested to book it as a matter of courtesy. Non-members may stay at the Belfry provided that:
- They book in advance preferably through the web or on the phone.
- They undertake to abide by the rules of the BEC.
- Full contact details are provided
- Guest fees are paid
Booking the Belfry
If you are planning on being more than a group of 3, the preferred method of booking the Belfry is via the online booking system
Groups booking the Belfry may be asked to pay a deposit. The terms and conditions will be provided when a deposit is requested.
When you book online you should receive a confirmation email within a couple of days. Normally it is much sooner. If you don’t hear from us or it is only a couple of days (or less) before you want to turn up then call us.
Numbers Accommodated
We’ve got 22 mattresses in our bunk room. There is room for camping but remember that if you’re in a tent you’re still using the facilities.
Please keep us informed of the numbers so we can ensure that we can accommodate your party.
Fees
The current rates for staying at the Belfry are displayed on the notice board at the Belfry. The fees for camping are the same as staying in the hut.
Cancellation
Stuff happens. People drop out of trips at short notice. However when you book a large group we might turn others away.
Let us know as soon as possible. If you simply fail to turn up and you’ve paid a deposit we will keep it.
On arrival
Signing in
The group leader is responsible for ensuring that all your group are signed in. Please sign in immediately on arriving at the Belfry for the fire safety record.
Parking at the Belfry
The BEC owns the gravelled car park at the Belfry site. Please refrain from parking on the road as it is a serious hazard to pedestrians and is not encouraged.
When there are events at the Belfry we may ask for permission for parking in the field at Underbarrow Farm. We will advise if this is available.
Camping
We have ample flat ground for many tents outside in the Snake Pit. This is the area to the left of the main entrance just as you leave the Belfry site.
If you are camping then leave this site as you found it. Nobody like pitching a tent amongst rubbish and broken glass so do you bit and leave it as you find it.
People camping pay the same rates as staying in the hut.
While Staying
Adhere to the Belfry Rules
Shared Use of the Facility
When you book the Belfry, it does not grant sole use of the facility for the duration of your stay. The hut must remain in a clean, reasonable state throughout your visit, not only when you leave. This ensures the space is welcoming and functional for everyone.
Please remember bunks may not be reserved
Courtesy to Other Members and Guests
The Belfry is a shared environment. If other BEC members or guests arrive during your stay, we ask that you extend them the courtesy and respect they are due as fellow users of the hut.
- Be courteous to other guests
- Keep noise down after midnight
Respect for the Building
While we understand that weekends are often a time for cavers to unwind and socialize, it is important to recognize the significant investment of club funds and members’ personal time in maintaining the Belfry. We expect all members and guests to treat the facility with respect, as they would any other caving hut. Just because it’s the Belfry doesn’t mean it can be abused.
- Do not use electricity or gas unnecessarily
- Do NOT put fat down drains — allow it to cool and put in rubbish
- Camp fires only in allocated areas
- Do not drive beyond the car park
- No fireworks without permission
- Use the car park sensible to allow optimal use
Heating
We have a wood burner in the main room and background radiators in the rest of the hut.
There is plenty of wood in the wood-stores that you can chop outside and a wheel barrow to carry it. Our wood supply is primarily for use in the wood burner.
Noise
The club rules state that “it is expected that between the hours of midnight and 8 am members and guests show consideration to those wishing to sleep”.
Data Connectivity
We have a mobile phone booster which works for all major networks except for Three. For those unable to use the booster service we provide a slow wifi service. Details for wireless broadband are displayed at the Belfry.
Smoking
In line with government regulations smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the Belfry.
When Leaving
Everyone is responsible for doing their bit to help clean up. Don’t be that dick who always leaves it to everyone else.
- Remove all rubbish when leaving and do not leave any food
- The Belfry should be thoroughly cleaned when leaving and left tidy for the next group
- Report problems to the Hut Warden promptly
- Please follow the guidelines on the notice board.
Payment
Payments must be made before leaving the Belfry. We prefer payments to be made by Sumup using the pay station provided.
If you are the group leader we will hold you responsible for any non-payments in your group.
Refuse Collection
Mendip District Council only collects waste every other week as shown on their calendar.
Please help us by ensuring the bins are out on the collection days and if possible by taking any overflow rubbish with you. Please check the notice board for details of collection details and dates.
Recycling
Bins are provided for the recycling of paper (fire lighting!), glass and cans – please ensure these are in the correct bins and left outside of the hut. Our neighbour at Underbarrow farm recycles the cans and puts the bottles out for us.
Working Weekends
From time to time it is necessary to maintain and improve the Belfry and its surroundings. The Hut Warden and / or Hut Engineer from time to time may schedule a working weekend where specific tasks have been defined. Typically Belfry fees for these weekends are relaxed as an incentive to get you to help out.
If you can assist during one of these weekends or indeed at any time then please do so! It’s your hut and doesn’t fix itself!