The Best UK Campsites

The UK has several small, exclusive camping, campervan and caravan sites that offer exceptional outdoor experiences.

Selecting the best UK campsites wasn’t easy, but these campsites stood out for their consistent quality and high standards.

This article shares the best small campsites from all over the country. Please keep reading to find out who they are!

We asked our users what they valued most in a campsite, and this is what they said:

• Location – 35%
• Clean Facilities – 25%
• Friendly Hosts – 15%
• Space Between Pitches – 10%
• Natural Surroundings – 10%
• Extras (Fire Pits, Glamping, etc.) – 5%

We used this feedback to benchmark our selections; every campsite in our Top 10 either excels in one of these areas or strikes an outstanding balance across them all.

Recommended Campsites in the UK

These campsites reflect what our users value: great locations, clean facilities, friendly hosts, and plenty of relaxing space. Each one offers a stress-free, welcoming experience without the crowds.

Here are some of the best places to go camping in the UK:

Old Bidlake Farm in Dorset

Located in the picturesque Marshwood Vale, part of Dorset’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Old Bidlake Farm offers a quiet and family-friendly camping experience.

User Ratings:

• Location: ✅ Strong
• Clean Facilities: ✅ Strong
• Friendly Hosts: ✅ Strong
• Space Between Pitches: ✅ Strong
• Natural Surroundings: ✅ Strong
• Extras: ✅ Strong

Accommodation Types:

• Tents ✅
• Campervans ✅

The site features eight generously spaced pitches across its 8.5-acre smallholding, giving guests plenty of room to unwind and relax. Each pitch comes with its own picnic bench and rocket stove.

Located only a 15-minute drive from the world-famous Jurassic Coast, it’s an excellent choice for adventurers keen to explore this extraordinary stretch of coastline.

The reviews say it all! With an impressive 5-star rating on Google Business, Old Bidlake Farm campsite in Dorset comes highly recommended. If you’re looking for a memorable camping experience, this is the place to be!

Book Now at OldBid Lake Farm

Foxglove Camping in Pembrokeshire

This is a small, off-grid site in Carmarthenshire. Foxglove Camping & Glamping offers a peaceful place to switch off and enjoy the slower pace of outdoor life. With limited pitches and glamping units, it’s ideal for those who prefer quiet surroundings and open space over busy holiday parks.

User Ratings:

• Location: ☑️ Moderate
• Clean Facilities: ✅ Strong
• Friendly Hosts: ✅ Strong
• Space Between Pitches: ✅ Strong
• Natural Surroundings: ✅ Strong
• Extras: ☑️ Moderate

Accommodation Types:

• Tents ✅
• Motorhomes ✅
• Glamping ✅

Guests can choose from tent pitches or glamping options, including a shepherd’s hut and bell tents. Facilities are simple but well-kept, with hot showers, compost loos, a washing-up area, and a communal campfire space.

Local attractions include the National Botanic Garden of Wales, Brechfa Forest for walking and cycling, and the market town of Carmarthen for supplies and cafes. The coast is within reach, too, with beaches like Llansteffan around a 30-minute drive away.

Are you looking for more peaceful spots like this? Browse our complete list of campsites in Wales to plan your next escape.

Book Now at FoxGlove Camping & Glamping

Cove Camping – Coastal Camping in Pembrokeshire

Cove Camping is a small, peaceful site about slowing down, tucked just inland from the stunning Pembrokeshire coast. With plenty of space, a friendly vibe, and walking access to the beach, it’s an excellent pick for campers looking to keep things simple.

User Ratings:

• Location: ✅ Strong
• Clean Facilities: ✅ Strong
• Friendly Hosts: ✅ Strong
• Space Between Pitches: ✅ Strong
• Natural Surroundings: ✅ Strong
• Extras: ✅ Strong

Accommodation Types:

• Tents ✅
• Motorhomes ✅

The site offers generous grass pitches for tents, campervans, and quirky glamping options in converted horse boxes. Facilities include clean toilets, hot showers, washing-up sinks, and a shared undercover cooking area. There’s also a small honesty shop for basics.

A footpath leads straight from the site to West Angle Bay, making beach days easy. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is right on the doorstep, and you’re within driving distance of Stackpole, Barafundle Bay, and the Lily Ponds at Bosherston, all of which are local gems.

Looking for more seaside spots? Browse our campsites near the beach for peaceful stays by the coast.

Book Now at Cove Camping

Lordington Park Camping – Peaceful Pitches on a Country Estate

Set on a working estate in the South Downs, Lordington Park Camping offers spacious, quiet pitches with countryside views and a genuinely relaxed atmosphere. It’s well suited to those who enjoy low-key, traditional camping with a touch of charm. Full details are available on the Lordington Park Camping listing.

User Ratings:

• Location: ✅ Strong
• Clean Facilities: ✅ Strong
• Friendly Hosts: ✅ Strong
• Space Between Pitches: ✅ Strong
• Natural Surroundings: ☑️ Moderate
• Extras: ☑️ Moderate

Accommodation Types:

• Tents ✅

This is a tent-only campsite with a strong focus on simplicity and space. Pitches are well spread out, and facilities include hot showers, compost toilets, a washing-up area, and even fridge and freezer access. A fire pit is also available for hire, adding to the back-to-basics charm.

The South Downs National Park is on the doorstep, offering miles of walking and cycling trails. You’re also close to the historic city of Chichester, Bosham Harbour, and the sandy beaches of West Wittering, all within easy reach.

Looking for more peaceful escapes? Explore our collection of campsites in South East England.

Book Now at Lordington Park Camping

Gatesgarth Camping – A Favourite for Lake District Scenery

With panoramic views of Fleetwith Pike and Haystacks, Gatesgarth Camping sits right at the head of Buttermere, placing you in the heart of one of the Lake District’s most spectacular valleys.

This tents-only site is essential but beloved. It offers an authentic back-to-nature experience that attracts walkers, wild swimmers, and photographers alike.

User Ratings:

• Location: ✅ Strong
• Clean Facilities: ☑️ Moderate
• Friendly Hosts: ☑️ Moderate
• Space Between Pitches: ☑️ Moderate
• Natural Surroundings: ✅ Strong
• Extras: ❌ Not Noted

Accommodation Types:

• Tents ✅

The facilities are simple and focused on the essentials: toilets, cold water taps, and a basic shower block. There’s no electric hook-up, Wi-Fi, or frills, just flat grass pitches and world-class scenery. It’s a short season, too, usually open from spring to early autumn, and pitches book up fast, especially on sunny weekends and school holidays.

Walks to Haystacks, Red Pike, and the lakeside loop around Buttermere start right from the gate. Honister Slate Mine, Crummock Water, and Scale Force waterfall are nearby, making it ideal for outdoor explorers.

Planning a trip to the Lakes? Browse more campsites near lakes for quiet stays with stunning views.

Book Now at Gatesgarth Camping

Knowle Meadow Camping in Somerset

Head to Knowle Meadow for glamping and camping accommodation. It is in the middle of a beautiful wildflower meadow in Somerset, all wrapped up in trees.

Here, it’s all about chilling out, feeling good, and getting back to nature. You’ll even use washroom facilities that could give a hotel a run for its money, not to mention a super cool Scandinavian barrel sauna with a window that lets you soak up the fantastic views.

User Ratings:

• Location: ☑️ Moderate
• Clean Facilities: ✅ Strong
• Friendly Hosts: ✅ Strong
• Space Between Pitches: ☑️ Moderate
• Natural Surroundings: ✅ Strong
• Extras: ✅ Strong

Accommodation Types:

• Tents ✅
• Motorhomes ✅
• Campervans ✅
• Glamping ✅

Discover more campsites in Somerset.

Book Now at Knowle Meadow

Sea View Campsite – Coastal Simplicity in North Devon

A relaxed, family-run spot inland from the North Devon coast. True to its name, Sea View Campsite offers far-reaching views across open fields towards the sea, making it a solid pick for those after a quiet base with easy access to beaches.

The site welcomes tents, campervans, and caravans, with generous grass pitches and ample space to unwind. Facilities are simple and well-kept, including clean toilets, hot showers, a washing-up area, and access to a shared fridge freezer. Dogs are welcome, too.

It’s an excellent base for exploring the coast, with Woolacombe, Ilfracombe, and the South West Coast Path all close by. Whether you’re into surfing, walking, or just sitting on the beach with an ice cream, this part of Devon covers you.

User Ratings:

• Location: ✅ Strong
• Clean Facilities: ✅ Strong
• Friendly Hosts: ✅ Strong
• Space Between Pitches: ✅ Strong
• Natural Surroundings: ☑️ Moderate
• Extras: ☑️ Moderate

Accommodation types:

• Tents ✅
• Caravans ✅

Are you looking for more peaceful breaks like this? Browse our campsites in Devon to find your next favourite spot.

Book Now at Sea View Campsite

Delamere Pods in Cheshire

The Delamere Pods offer luxury pod living near Delamere Forest in Cheshire.

Each pod is clean and comfy and equipped with a private jacuzzi, outdoor fire pit (you can grab firewood from their office), flat-screen TV, double bed (you bring your bedding), heater, kettle, and toaster.

They’ve got shower blocks, laundry facilities, and a communal wash pot area. If you fancy a day trip, historical spots like Beeston Castle are nearby, or you can explore the local village of Blakemere.

User Ratings:

• Location: ☑️ Moderate
• Clean Facilities: ✅ Strong
• Friendly Hosts: ✅ Strong
• Space Between Pitches: ❌ Not Noted
• Natural Surroundings: ☑️ Moderate
• Extras: ✅ Strong

Accommodation Types:

• Glamping ✅

Look at our Cheshire campsites directory for more awesome spots like this.

Book Now at Delamere Pods

Coast and Castles Camping in Northumberland

Imagine a campsite perfect for families and campervans, with glamping options near Alnwick and the Northumberland Coast.

At Coast and Castles Camping, they’ve got hot showers, proper loos, and a spot to wash your dishes. Kids have a play area, a pop-up bar, and covered seating for the grown-ups. Plus, it’s a dog-friendly campsite about the classic camping experience, with fires and BBQs welcome.

User Ratings:

• Location: ✅ Strong
• Clean Facilities: ✅ Strong
• Friendly Hosts: ✅ Strong
• Space Between Pitches: ☑️ Moderate
• Natural Surroundings: ✅ Strong
• Extras: ✅ Strong

Accommodation Types:

• Tents ✅
• Caravans ✅
• Motorhomes ✅
• Campervans ✅
• Glamping ✅

This place is just a mile from the cute fishing village of Boulmer on the northern Northumberland coastline. Boulmer’s has its own beach and wildlife paradise; from there, you can walk or cycle along St Oswald’s Way.

Head north to see amazing beaches and spots at Longhoughton and Howick, all the way to Craster village and magnificent Dunstanburgh Castle. Or go south to the stunning beaches at Seaton Point, Alnmouth, Warkworth, and onto the harbour town of Amble.

Just three miles away is Alnwick, a market town with world-class attractions like The Alnwick Garden, Alnwick Castle (you might recognise it from the Harry Potter films), Barter Books (Europe’s biggest second-hand bookstore), and the Aln Valley Steam Railway.

Visit more campsites in Northumberland.

Book Now at Coast and Castles Camping

Not sure where to go next?

Browse our full UK campsites directory to explore more peaceful places to pitch.

Got a Campsite to Recommend?

We’d love to hear from you if you run a small campsite that fits the bill or know one that does. Submit your campsite here to be considered for future features.

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