Tinkers Bubble – Off-Grid Living in the Heart of Somerset

Posted May 12, 2025

Hidden beneath the golden slopes of Ham Hill lies Tinkers Bubble – an off-grid community quietly living in harmony with nature. With hand-built homes, horse-powered farming, and a deep-rooted respect for the land, this tucked-away corner of Somerset offers a rare glimpse into a slower, more sustainable way of life.

Tucked into a fold of the hill just outside Stoke-sub-Hamdon, where the golden stone of Ham Hill glows in the evening sun, there’s a place that feels like stepping into another rhythm of life. Welcome to Tinkers Bubble – a low-impact, off-grid community living gently and creatively on the land.

Founded in the 1990s by a group of people seeking to live simply and sustainably, Tinkers Bubble is a rare and remarkable corner of Somerset – a living, breathing example of how humans and nature can exist in harmony. No fossil fuels, no mains electricity, and certainly no rush.

Here, life follows the seasons. Horses work the land. Trees are managed using traditional woodland techniques. Fruit and veg are grown organically, timber is cut with hand tools and solar power, and every corner hums with the quiet purpose of living lightly.

A Hidden Gem Beneath the Hill

Set on 40 acres of ancient woodland and sloping pasture beneath Ham Hill, Tinkers Bubble is almost invisible from the road – a true hidden gem. But those who take the time to explore will find roundhouses made with local timber and straw, smoke curling from cob chimneys, and a sense of deep-rooted care for the land.

The community hosts occasional open days and guided tours, welcoming curious visitors to walk through the woods, see the sawmill in action, and learn about their low-impact lifestyle. It’s not about preaching, it’s about sharing – showing that another way of living is not only possible, but already happening.

Rooted in Craft, Community and Care

There’s a quiet artistry in everything they do – from hand-split shingles on the roof to the way an orchard is tended with care. Tools are cherished. Decisions are made collectively. Everyone plays a role. It’s a slower life, yes – but a full one.

Tinkers Bubble has inspired students, eco-curious travellers, and local neighbours alike. It’s been featured in films and books, yet it remains modest and grounded, true to its original vision.

How to Visit

While it’s not a place to drop in on unannounced, Tinkers Bubble welcomes visitors at set times throughout the year. Open days usually take place in the warmer months and include tours, talks, and sometimes even a shared meal. Keep an eye on their website or community noticeboards around Stoke-sub-Hamdon and Montacute for details.

Why We Love It

At Hidden Somerset, we love Tinkers Bubble because it’s a reminder of what matters. It’s not about going off-grid (though they do it beautifully) – it’s about slowing down, treading lightly, and building a life with care. And all of that, right here in the hills of South Somerset.

So next time you’re walking the trails around Ham Hill, take a moment to look down across the valley. Somewhere in those trees, there’s a little community keeping old ways alive and quietly shaping the future.