BASC Ground Car Boot Sale

What to Expect at BASC Ground Car Boot Sale

BASC Ground Car Boot Sale is a bit of a hidden gem, and if you haven’t been yet, you’re in for a cracking afternoon. Every Friday and Saturday from March to October, 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, this Burnham-on-Sea spot comes alive with stalls and a relaxed buzz that’s perfect for a lazy weekend. I’ve been popping down here for years, and it’s got a special charm—starting later than most car boots, it’s ideal if you’re not an early bird like me. 

You’ll find a mix of everything, from quirky keepsakes to everyday essentials, all set against the backdrop of a friendly Somerset field. Here’s what you can look forward to when you swing by.

Range of Goods

The variety at BASC Ground is what keeps it exciting—you never know what’s waiting for you. There’s antiques galore, like a rusty old lantern I nabbed once that now sits on my porch, or a chipped jug that’s perfect for wildflowers. Second-hand furniture’s a staple too—think wobbly stools you can fix up or a solid chest of drawers that just needs a wipe. Clothes are piled high—kids’ jackets, retro shirts, even a pair of boots I still wear on muddy walks.

I’ve scored collectibles here that spark envy, like a set of old fishing lures or a battered radio that crackles to life. It shifts with the seasons too—spring’s full of gardening bits, while October brings out Halloween odds and ends. It’s a lucky dip with a Somerset twist, and every visit feels like a fresh adventure.

Specialties & Local Finds

What makes BASC Ground stand out are the local treasures you’ll stumble across. There’s a proper Somerset feel to some stalls—handmade bits like woven baskets or chunky knit throws that scream cosy evenings by the fire. Foodies get a treat too—locally made relishes or slabs of fudge have found their way into my bag more times than I can count, and they’re lush. Vintage finds with a regional nod pop up often, like old seaside postcards or bits of pottery that hint at Burnham’s coastal roots. 

I once chatted with a seller who swore her dad fished the nets she was selling—it’s those little Somerset stories that make the stuff here feel like more than just clutter. It’s a market with heart, and you can taste the local flavour in every browse.

Vendor Variety

The vendors at BASC Ground are a brilliant bunch, and they bring the place to life. You’ve got stalls bursting with handmade crafts—think funky necklaces or painted signs—right next to someone unloading a box of dog-eared comics. Vintage fashion’s a big draw; I nabbed a corduroy jacket here once that’s still my go-to for chilly days. 

Upcycled furniture’s popular too—sellers give old tables or chairs a new lease of life with a splash of paint, and they fly off the stalls. Then there’s the real characters—like the bloke with a mountain of vinyl records, spinning tales about each one, or the lady who deals in old seaside trinkets and knows every nook of Burnham’s history. It’s this mix that keeps BASC Ground feeling fresh—not your bog-standard market by a long shot.

Sellers at BASC Ground Car Boot Sale

If you’re itching to sell, BASC Ground is a top-notch choice. Sellers can roll in from 11:00 AM, giving you an hour to set up before the buyers flood through at noon. Fees are straightforward—£8 for a car, £10 for a small van, £12 for a regular van, £15 for a large one, and £5 extra if you’ve got a trailer hitched on. No booking needed, just turn up and find your spot. 

I’ve had a go at selling here myself—offloading old books and a knackered lamp or two—and it’s always a laugh watching the crowd dive in.

Seller Backgrounds

The sellers at BASC Ground are a proper cross-section of folks, and that’s what makes it such a buzz. You’ve got Burnham locals clearing out their garages—piles of kids’ games, stacks of DVDs they’ve finally given up on, or tools they don’t need anymore. Then there are the seasonal traders, the ones who chase the car boot circuit from March to October, turning up with crates of odds and sods they’ve picked up along the way. 

The regulars are the backbone though—like the chap who’s been flogging fishing gear forever, or the mum who brings a load of baby stuff every week. I’ve swapped yarns with a retired baker selling off her cookbooks, a young couple shifting house and shedding gear, even a fisherman parting with spare tackle. They’re here to declutter or pocket some cash, but they all bring that friendly Somerset spirit that turns a stall into a chat.

Vendor Highlights

Every now and then, you meet a seller who leaves a mark. Last summer, I ran into a toy collector with a stash of 60s board games—pure nostalgia that had me texting my sister pics all afternoon. There’s a local crafter who’s there most weekends too, her stall groaning with pottery she’s thrown herself—my kitchen’s got a bowl from her that’s a proper talking point. 

Then there’s the antique fella, quiet as a mouse, with gems like old brass bells or faded photos of Burnham’s pier days. These sellers don’t just flog stuff—they share a bit of their world, and it makes every haggle feel like catching up with an old pal.

Atmosphere at BASC Ground Car Boot Sale

BASC Ground has a vibe that’s all its own—laid-back, friendly, and just busy enough to keep things lively. The afternoon slot gives it a different pace from morning markets, and I reckon that’s part of its charm.

Community Vibe

You’ll feel the community buzz as soon as you wander in. Regulars give you a cheery “alright?” and vendors are quick with a smile, even if it’s your first go. Families potter about, kids clutching cheap finds, while collectors rummage with laser focus. Students hunt for bargains for their digs, and older folks point out bits that take them back decades. I’ve seen newcomers get roped into chats with sellers like they’ve been coming forever—it’s that Burnham-on-Sea warmth that pulls you in. 

It’s not rushed or rowdy, just a lovely afternoon where everyone’s part of the same laid-back crew, and you’ll find yourself lingering longer than you meant to.

Entertainment

There’s no big stage or street performers, but BASC Ground keeps you happy in its own way. The catering van’s a lifesaver—hot pasties or a cuppa to keep you going through the afternoon. Toilets are on-site, so no worries there, and parking’s sorted (though it’s £2 per car for buyers). No dogs allowed, so leave your pooch at home—keeps it simple for everyone. 

The real fun’s in the scene itself—kids darting about with new treasures, the odd haggle turning into a giggle, and the chatter of a busy field. It’s not fancy, but it’s got a proper afternoon glow that feels like a treat after a lazy morning.

Facilities at BASC Ground Car Boot Sale

BASC Ground keeps the essentials covered—no faff, just what you need to enjoy your afternoon without a hitch.

Nearby Amenities

Burnham-on-Sea’s got your back if you want to stretch your day out. There are cosy cafes a stone’s throw away—perfect for a scone or a quick lunch after you’ve bagged your goodies. Little shops are nearby too if you need a top-up, like batteries for that old clock you’ve just nabbed. If you’re with family or just fancy a breather, there’s the beach itself—Burnham’s famous sands are close enough for a stroll or a paddle if the tide’s right. It’s all handy enough to turn your afternoon into a proper outing without any hassle.

Parking & Accessibility

Parking’s a breeze—they’ve got plenty of space, though buyers cough up £2 per car, so keep a couple of coins handy. It’s a field setup, nice and flat, but it can get mucky if it’s been wet—boots are a smart move after rain. The layout’s open, so pushchairs or wheelchairs can roll through easy enough, and there’s no tricky bits to trip up families or older visitors. Disabled access isn’t flashy, but it’s practical, and the chilled vibe means you won’t feel rushed. Just check the weather, and you’ll be golden for your afternoon browse.

Why BASC Ground Car Boot Sale Stands Out

BASC Ground has a special spark that’s kept me coming back, and I’ve been to enough car boots to know what’s what. It’s not just the stuff—it’s the whole afternoon package.

Comparison with Other Markets

Compared to some morning markets that feel like a frantic dash, BASC Ground is a breath of fresh air—starting at noon, it’s perfect if you like a lie-in. The range of goods beats a lot of smaller sales, and those Somerset touches give it an edge over the big, faceless boots. Entry’s £1 for adults (free for under-16s), with £2 parking that’s worth it for the ease. It’s family-friendly too—no tight squeezes or chaos, just a relaxed setup that suits everyone from kids to grannies. You get value, a cracking vibe, and that afternoon slot—makes it a standout in my book.

Proximity to Local Attractions

Burnham-on-Sea’s a cracking spot to pair with a car boot trip. The beach is right there—miles of sand for a wander or a quick dip if you’re brave. The pier’s a short stroll away, a proper old-school seaside treat, even if it’s more arcade than grand walkway these days. And if you’re up for a drive, Brean Down’s not far—a rugged hill with views that’ll take your breath away. It’s dead easy to make your BASC Ground afternoon part of a bigger Somerset day out—perfect for locals or visitors alike.

Special Events or Seasonal Information

BASC Ground keeps the Friday and Saturday rhythm going strong from March to October, but they sprinkle in a few extras to keep it interesting. It’s worth keeping an ear out for these little bonuses.

Annual & Seasonal Events

The regular 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM slot is solid, but now and then they mix it up. I’ve been to a summer special where they roped in extra stalls—felt like the whole town turned out, and the buzz was unreal. There’s been a charity day too, raising cash for a local cause with a raffle and a few laughs—proper community stuff. It’s not set in stone every year, but when these pop up, they’re a treat—more to see, more to natter about, and a feel-good vibe that lingers.

Themed or Holiday Markets

As the months roll on, the stalls shift with the seasons. March is all about fresh starts—gardening gear and spring bits take over. By October, you’ll spot Halloween goodies creeping in—cheap costumes or plastic pumpkins that kids go nuts for. I’ve seen sellers lean into summer too, with beach toys or picnic gear when the sun’s out. It’s not a full themed takeover like a Christmas market, but it’s enough to give each visit its own flavour—keeps it fun for families and gives you something new to hunt through.