12 Great Campsites in Britain

While most travelers flock to Britain’s well-known hotels and B&Bs, you’ll find the country’s most authentic experiences at its hidden camping spots. From luxury shepherd’s huts in Snowdonia to stargazing tents near the Scottish border, these 12 exceptional sites offer far more than just a place to pitch your tent. You’ll discover heated pools, farm-to-table dining, and pristine hiking trails, all at a fraction of traditional accommodation costs. Let’s explore what makes each of these destinations worth your time.

Take Aways

• Swiss Farm Touring & Camping offers luxury amenities including a heated pool and restaurant across 40 acres of Oxfordshire countryside.
• Trwyn Yr Wylfa provides stunning views of Snowdonia National Park with 80 pitches and modern facilities at affordable rates.
• Highfield Holidays near Oban features luxury glamping pods with private hot tubs and consistently high guest ratings.
• Kits Coty delivers accessible luxury glamping just 40 minutes from London with various accommodation options and award-winning facilities.
• Green Acres offers panoramic views of Yorkshire’s Hambleton Hills with electric hookups and spacious pitches in a compact setting.

Swiss Farm Touring & Camping: A Riverside Haven in Henley

Nestled along the Marlow Road in Henley-on-Thames, Swiss Farm Touring & Camping offers a well-established retreat across 40 acres of pristine Oxfordshire countryside.

You’ll find a range of accommodation options, from grass tent pitches to fully serviced hardstanding spots, each accommodating up to six people. Camping with your dog can be an enjoyable experience, with the proper preparation and precautions.

The site’s facilities include a heated outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, and laundrette. Guests can enjoy home-made pastries and fresh coffee at the on-site Farm Kitchen Restaurant.

You’re just a short walk from Henley’s town center and the famous Royal Regatta course.

Located minutes away from historic Henley and its prestigious Royal Regatta waters, Swiss Farm puts you right where the action is.

For active visitors, there’s a football/basketball area on-site, plus easy access to the Chiltern Hills for cycling.

Open from February to December, this AA 5 Platinum-rated campsite is ideally located for day trips to London, Oxford, and Windsor.

The Borlase family has maintained high standards since 1946, earning consistent praise for their well-kept grounds and excellent service.

The Majestic Views at Trwyn Yr Wylfa

A coastal gem within Snowdonia National Park, Trwyn yr Wylfa offers unmatched views of the Great Orme and Anglesey from its strategic location near Conwy, North Wales.

You’ll find it just a 10-minute drive from Conwy town, making it convenient to explore local villages and amenities.

The site’s 80 pitches accommodate everything from tents to motorhomes, with both electric and non-electric options available.

You’ll have access to modern facilities including hot showers, a communal kitchen, and a dishwashing area.

At around €22 per night in low season, it’s an affordable base for exploring the North Wales coastal path and spotting local wildlife like Carneddau ponies. With 4.8 out of 5 for cleanliness, visitors consistently praise the site’s immaculate facilities.

Open from March to October, this award-winning campsite has earned recognition in the Guardian’s top 20 coastal sites and continues to impress visitors since the 1940s.

Highfield Holidays: Luxury Glamping in Oban

Located just outside Oban in scenic Argyll, Highfield Holidays distinguishes itself as a premium glamping destination where luxury meets the outdoors. With a remarkable 4.6 out of 5 rating, based on 150 guest reviews, this site has earned its position as the top campground in the area.

You’ll find this award-winning site nestled on a 7-acre croft, just a 5-minute walk from Tralee Bay’s sandy beach. The site offers a mix of accommodation options to suit your needs and budget.

• Luxury glamping pods with en-suite bathrooms and private hot tubs
• Safari-style tents that blend nature with comfort, sleeping up to 4 people
• 49 spacious pitches including electric grass and hardstanding options
• Dog-friendly facilities with dedicated pods for pet owners
• Full-service amenities including 16-amp hookups and modern shower blocks

The surprising benefits of camping can contribute to the overall experience at this peaceful coastal retreat.

Kits Coty: A Bluebell Hill Retreat

Perched atop the stunning chalk downland of Bluebell Hill between Maidstone and Chatham, Kits Coty offers an accessible luxury glamping retreat just 40 minutes from London.

You’ll find panoramic views over the Medway Valley and easy access to the Kent Coast.

Choose from several accommodation options: a camper van at £110 per night, the ‘Gretel’ lodge at £120, or save with luxury tents and the Shepherd’s Hut ‘Pamela’ at £85 each.

Affordable luxury awaits with options from £85 nightly – choose a cozy shepherd’s hut, spacious lodge, or classic camper van.

This award-winning site has earned multiple accolades, including the 2024 VisitEngland Silver Award. Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a stunning example of the natural beauty that can be found in the UK.

You’re perfectly positioned to explore Leeds Castle, Chatham Dockyard, and ancient sites like Kit’s Coty House.

The North Downs Way provides excellent hiking opportunities, while the surrounding bluebell fields offer stunning natural beauty.

Dogs on leads are welcome at nearby heritage sites.

The site’s Kent Wildlife Trust management ensures preservation of the 104-hectare nature reserve surrounding the accommodation.

Green Acres: Nature’s Paradise in Yorkshire

Nestled in North Yorkshire’s enchanting countryside, Green Acres offers budget-conscious travelers a compact 0.3-acre retreat with panoramic views of the Hambleton Hills.

You’ll find 16-amp electric hookups, spacious pitches with private parking, and an information room to plan your adventures. As the original club since 1907, we’re committed to helping you make the most of your stay.

Relaxing wilderness camping allows you to truly unwind and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. Just 2 miles from UNESCO World Heritage Site Fountains Abbey, the site provides easy access to Brimham Rocks’ dramatic rock formations. A 9-mile drive takes you to Harrogate’s historic spa attractions, and the dog-friendly grounds feature dedicated walking paths.

Close to local pubs for affordable dining options, the site’s convenient location puts you within reach of Yorkshire’s top attractions. Whether you’re bringing your caravan or motorhome, you’ll appreciate the barrier-controlled entry and reliable TV reception.

For cultural enthusiasts, nearby Harrogate offers numerous events, while nature lovers can explore the surrounding walking trails.

Athelington Hall’s Log Cabin Experience

Moving from Yorkshire’s rolling hills to Suffolk’s serene countryside, Athelington Hall Farm welcomes visitors to its collection of 17 distinctive log cabins. You’ll find these cozy retreats nestled within the private grounds of a 17th-century hall, complete with a moat and ancient oak trees. As a family-run operation, the farm has been lovingly maintained through three generations since 1620. Embrace nature as you enjoy the surrounding footpaths for nature walks.

Each cabin comes with a private hot tub, and select units feature saunas and four-poster beds. You can bring your pets to designated cabins, with space for up to six people per unit.

Luxurious cabins feature private hot tubs, optional saunas, and four-poster beds, with pet-friendly options accommodating up to six guests.

The on-site games room offers pool, table tennis, and air hockey to keep everyone entertained.

You’re just 15 minutes from Framlingham’s market town, with easy access to the Suffolk Heritage Coast.

Take advantage of the surrounding footpaths for nature walks, or arrange a hog roast for special occasions.

It’s ideal for stargazing from your hot tub.

Harrogate’s Premier Camping Destination

North Yorkshire’s premier spa town, Harrogate, boasts over 20 diverse campsites that serve as perfect bases for exploring the region’s limestone valleys and historic attractions.

You’ll find everything from luxury glamping to budget-friendly pitches, with excellent transport links to Leeds, York, and the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Essential camping items are readily available in the town’s many outdoor stores.

• Rudding Holiday Park offers heated pools, golf, and a pub just 2.5 miles from town
• Windmill Retreats provides luxury shepherd’s huts with optional hot tubs
• Little North Field features en-suite safari tents with pond views
• Harrogate Caravan Park overlooks Crimple Valley with 66 well-maintained pitches
• Little Seed Field offers secluded glamping on a working dairy farm

The area’s campsites put you within easy reach of Fountains Abbey while treating you to the sounds of woodpeckers, cuckoos, and wood warblers in Britain’s happiest town. Visitors can enjoy the famous Betty’s Tearoom established nearly 100 years ago.

Ashleigh Farm: Where Comfort Meets Wilderness

Just 12 miles from Lincoln, Ashleigh Farm combines rustic charm with modern conveniences at prices that won’t break your budget.

You’ll find five caravan pitches, including three hardstanding spots with electric hook-ups, plus glamping options featuring two Lotus Belle Stargazer bell tents and two Witch Hut pods. The cozy accommodations offer scenic pond views and peaceful surroundings that stretch across open fields. Women adventurers will appreciate the on-site amenities tailored to their needs.

The site’s hotel-style bathrooms offer complimentary toiletries, while the on-site bakery serves fresh artisan bread and cakes.

You can even book bread-making sessions for a hands-on experience.

When you’re ready to explore, you’re just 15 minutes from RAF Scampton and 20 minutes from Lincoln Cathedral.

The village pub serves excellent meals, and you’ll discover plenty of cycling and walking opportunities nearby.

Glamping Under the Northern Lights

While Britain may not rival Scandinavia for Northern Lights displays, you’ll find exceptional glamping spots across the country’s northernmost regions that combine luxury accommodations with prime aurora viewing opportunities.

The Shetland Islands, just 211 miles north of Aberdeen, offer your best chance of catching this natural phenomenon, while sites in Northumberland and the North York Moors provide dark-sky alternatives. Many locations feature cozy structures with wood-burning stoves for warmth during long nights of stargazing. The 12 Places to Camp Under a Starry Sky provide additional inspiration for exceptional stargazing destinations.

For prime Northern Lights viewing in Britain, head to the remote Shetland Islands or explore the dark skies of Northumberland.

Book between December and March for ideal viewing conditions, check aurora forecasts and weather patterns before finalizing your dates, and choose sites with amenities like heated domes or pods to stay warm during night viewing. Pack essential winter gear, even if your accommodation is luxury-oriented, and consider locations with guided stargazing tours to maximize your viewing experience.

The key is combining comfort with strategic location – you’ll want a site that balances dark skies with modern conveniences.

Top of the Woods: Border Country Bliss

Moving from aurora-chasing to the enchanting Border Country, you’ll discover a treasure trove of camping experiences between England and Scotland. Coldstream Holiday Park offers riverside camping near the border, while Ruberslaw Wild Woods features unique Edwardian walled garden pitches and safari tents. You can explore the Southern Upland Way‘s 212-mile trail or tackle the 7Stanes biking paths for adventure. Don’t miss Glentrees Forest‘s scenic walks or Eildon Hill‘s stunning hiking trails. For a peaceful stay, try Bonnie Park‘s riverside site near a village pub, or opt for Shepherd’s Rest‘s quiet farm setting with shepherd’s huts. Top family-friendly campsites around the globe can be found in this region, making the Border Country perfect for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Most sites provide modern facilities, and you’re just 40 minutes from Edinburgh’s attractions. The region is home to several historic castles, including the impressive Floors Castle with its remarkable furniture collection.

Giant’s Causeway Camping Adventure

Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast calls campers with its dramatic landscape of hexagonal basalt columns and UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway.

You’ll find excellent camping options at the 5-star Causeway Coast Holiday Park, family-friendly Highview Holiday Park, and rustic Maddybenny Farm Campsite. Each offers unique amenities within easy reach of major attractions. The free-range animals at Maddybenny add a special charm to the camping experience. Essential tips for a memorable family camping trip can help ensure your stay is an unforgettable one.

• Indoor heated pool and hot tubs at Causeway Coast Holiday Park
• Glamping cabins at Highview Holiday Park, just 15 minutes from Giant’s Causeway
• Farm animals and water sports access at Maddybenny Farm
• Walking and cycling trails along the Causeway Coast Way
• Easy access to Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Rathlin Island

Most sites operate from spring through mid-December, with online booking available.

You’ll find everything from budget-friendly pitches to luxury glamping, all positioned perfectly for exploring this stunning coastline.

Snowdonia’s Hidden Camping Gems

From coastal wonders to mountain majesty, Snowdonia National Park offers some of Britain’s most spectacular camping experiences.

You’ll find highly-rated sites like Bryn Ffanigl Ganol, boasting an impressive 4.83/5 stars, and Gwerniago, with its family-friendly atmosphere and coastal proximity. The park encompasses nine mountain ranges and countless hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Family camping adventures can create lifelong memories in this stunning natural setting.

For waterfront camping, head to Graig Wen on the Mawddach Estuary, where you’ll pay from £12 per night and enjoy amenities like hot showers and a camp shop.

If you’re seeking lakeside adventures, Glanllyn Lakeside Park provides private access to Bala Lake for water sports enthusiasts.

For a back-to-basics experience, consider Cefn Coed’s peaceful woodland setting.

Most sites welcome both tents and campervans, while Tyn Cornel offers additional glamping options during its May-to-September season.

The Last Word

Britain’s campsites shine like scattered jewels across the countryside, and you’ll find the perfect spot for your budget and style. Whether you’re craving a £15-per-night basic pitch or splurging on a £95 luxury shepherd’s hut, these 12 destinations deliver unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. Pack your gear, check the seasonal rates, and don’t forget to book early—the best spots fill up months in advance.