Britain's top 10 camping spots

Scotland

Ahh, Scotland. Lochs, glens, heather-flecked hillsides - it really is the most wonderful place to pitch your tent. But did you know that unlike most of England, Scotland’s relaxed trespassing laws allow camping in open country? Camping in the wilderness of the Highlands is a joy and it’s free! Be sure to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Dartmoor

Dartmoor National Park is a rugged, eerily beautiful place which is great for hiking, climbing and potholing. It’s also the only place in England where wild camping is permissible for a few nights. Pitch your tent under craggy, gritstone tors and share your breakfast with wild Dartmoor ponies. Check the Dartmoor National Park website for advice and guidelines.

London

Believe it or not, there are several excellent campsites within striking distance of central London. You can save a packet by camping in the capital and it’s more convenient than you might think. Try Abbey Wood campsite in south London, only 35 minutes by train to the centre, or Crystal Palace Caravan Club that’s on a bus route to Oxford Circus.

Cornwall

If it’s sea and surf you’re after, Cornwall has cracking camping with access to some wonderful beaches, good weather and a relaxed lifestyle. A great family option is Trevornick Holiday Park in Cornwall overlooking Holywell Bay beach. Or try Dennis Cove Camping in Padstow with fabulous views across the bay.

The Lake District

Camping in the lakes is the best way to experience England’s most romantic landscape. Try the National Trust operated Great Langdale site. The facilities are excellent and tents sit right in the shadow of the Great Langdale Pikes. Perfect for energetic hikes or quiet relaxation.

The New Forest

What could be better than sleeping under the ancient oaks and gnarled beeches of the New Forest? In fact, the New Forest National Park has much more to offer than woodland. The enormous Roundhill campsite, with room for around 500 pitches, is a beauty. Choose from private wooded glades or smooth heathland and go horse riding, cycling or exploring down the Beaulieu River.

Pembrokeshire

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a Welsh jewel. Undeveloped, peppered with castles and about as charming as landscapes get, camping here is a rare pleasure. Fishguard Bay Caravan and Camping Park takes full advantage of this sweetest of spots, with stellar views across the bay.

Norfolk

Head east to the Norfolk Broads and the idyllic Clippesby Hall campsite. Bordered on all sides by lush greenery it manages to please all-comers with its mix of top-notch facilities and rural charm. Go boating on the broads or head to the coast. And proving there really is something for everyone, there’s an excellent pub onsite, too.

Snowdonia

Rough, rugged and with adventure sports aplenty, Snowdonia National Park is magnificent. And, yes, you’ve guessed it, the best way to get right in on the action is to camp. Gwern Gôf Isaf Farm is set right in the heart of the mountains beneath the brooding Tryfan and there’s abseiling and climbing terrain on site.

Tired of tents? Try a tipi or wigwam

If a traditional tent doesn’t appeal, why not stay in a tipi or a wigwam? Mains Farm Wigwams in Stirling, Scotland, have traditional Sioux tipis or more substantial heated wigwams in a lovely spot near Loch Lomond. Down south, Cornish Tipi Holidays hire out tipis in wooded clearings not far from the popular resort of Rock.

Where can I find a campsite?

To find an assessed campsite near your destination, use our Accommodation Search. We have over 37,000 places to stay in our accommodation directory – Britain’s largest hotel listing!

Buy temporary membership for the Camping & Caravanning Club

If you’re planning to come to Britain on a caravanning or camping holiday then it’s a great idea to get temporary membership of  The Camping and Caravanning Club for great discounts and deals.

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If you are planning a trip to London travel as the locals travel using an Oyster Card. It really is the essential "buy before you leave" product. You can use Oyster on ALL London underground, buses, Docklands Light Railway and trams, and on many regular train services within London.

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