Top camping spots in the UK
The UK plays host to some of the most picturesque and peaceful scenery in the world. From green countryside to stunning coastlines, it shouldn’t be any surprise why it attracts tourists from all over the world. This year, thanks to a combination of fine cuisine, mediocre weather and friendly atmosphere, British holidaymakers are willing to sack off the annual holiday to Costa Del Sol in favour of the likes of the English Riviera, to indulge in everything the countryside has to offer.
The choice of accommodation seems to be varied for those willing to vacate within Britain and despite that there are over 600,000 hotel rooms available across the country UK, there are 3,000 campsites dotted across it too, that has contributed to this mass growth of staycations. That said, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite campsites throughout the UK, homing in on destinations you can frequent, which offer that little something extra.
Caerfai Farm – Pembrokeshire, Wales
Caerfair Farm is situated in the UK’s smallest city. Gaining city status in 1995, St Davids, which offers some of the most magnificent coastal scenery in the country, has a population of just 1,600 people. Caerfai makes it onto our list simply due to its location. Stumble across this campsite on top of the headland and simply immerse in the stunning light reflecting off the waves below. Pitching a tent is the most popular choice among visitors, however yurts and cottages are available for those not keen on getting too close to nature. If you’re taking the kids along to St Davids, we highly suggest bringing a kite — it will provide hours of unlimited fun.
The Secret Campsite – Sussex, England
One of the main reasons we choose to go camping is to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern society. Five miles north of Lewes, in the Sussex countryside, the Secret Campsite, is a tent only venue which places an emphasis on helping you escape from the rat race of nine-to-five. Reconnecting with nature is what this place is all about and the sites surroundings which are effectively untouched enables you to do just that. Wildlife habitats are prevalent throughout the site so don’t be taken aback if you are to witness a deer strolling past during your stay. Reliving your youth is more than possible at SCL with Tree Tents, which featured on George Clarkes Amazing Spaces, available as an accommodation option. Similarly, the owners have planted numerous edible plants around the site, serving up a surprise for those who decide to frequent here.
Book here: thesecretcampsites.co.uk/lewes/overview/
Fisherground – Cumbria, England
If you’re seeking an action-packed holiday with your children, then look no further and check out this neat little find in the Lake District. As you drive into the site, both you and the children will soon realise why this was the right place to come. Set deep in the heart of Eskdale, one of Cumbria’s most exquisite valleys, the site has been described as a child’s paradise. A zip wire, Tarzan ropes, and tyre rafts to negotiate through the pond, are just some of the activities the children can enjoy. But, don’t think that this is all about the kids — Fisherground is perfectly located for those seeking a challenge and fancy tackling the National Three Peaks. The King George IV Inn, which is within walking distance off the site, offers traditional homely dishes and of course a hearty stout.
Book here: www.fishergroundcampsite.co.uk/
Runach Arainn – Isle of Arran, Scotland
You can access the Isle of Arran form the ferry port at Ardrossan and despite its existence as a landmass of only 20 miles long and 10 miles wide, it’s perhaps one of the most stunning areas in the UK. Across the globe you will struggle to find somewhere so small that contains such a vast range of forests, sandy beaches, and valleys. Runach Arainn is unlike any other camping experience — the yurts can sleep up to six people, include a wood burner and stove, and offer Wi-Fi. The uniqueness of Runach is that you are experiencing an area of outstanding natural beauty, but with every home comfort you could imagine. The island caters for every kind of holiday requirement, with challenging hikes and cycles, low valley strolls, or watersport activities for the slightly more adventurous among us. In the evening, relax with a glass of wine at the Stag’s Pavilion before indulging in some luxury seafood cuisine.
Rossharbour – Co Fermanagh, Northern Ireland
Rossharbour is located on the edge of the Lower Lough Erne Shore, on Boa Island and is undeniably beautiful. The site is perhaps one of the most peaceful and secluded areas in the country, ideal for escaping the rat race and being at one with nature. Local attractions include in the Marble Arch Caves and the Legnabrocky Trail, which shot to fame in recent years and has been aptly named on Instagram as the stair way to heaven. The walk, which winds its way through the sweeping hills for approximately 4km, reaches the summit at 550m, offering unrestricted views of the surrounding landscape — remember a bottle of water though. After completing the trek, retreat to one of the many glamping pods or wigwams, where you can relax in your own personal hot tub, before having a barbeque by the water.
Book here: rossharbour.co.uk/glamping/
With more than 12,000 miles of coastline, and countless stunning peaks, pack your camping gas light and hit the road, taking advantage of everything this country has to offer.