With its diverse natural landscapes, rich history, and varied coastline, the UK offers some of the world’s most picturesque and accessible camping sites. From the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish coast, there are campsites to suit every taste, budget, and style of camping, from caravan parks to wildlife reserves, historic landmarks to isolated wildernesses.
1. Lake District National Park, Cumbria
The Lake District is a world-famous location, known for its rugged beauty, sparkling lakes, and challenging hikes. The national park offers wild camping opportunities and challenges for both novice and experienced campers, with campsites ranging from the edge of the lake to the tranquility of the woods. Some popular campsites include Low Wray, Park Foot, and Syke Farm.
2. Peak District National Park, Derbyshire
The Peak District is a popular destination for adventure seekers, bird watchers and hikers. The park boasts of rugged rock formations, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls. With a rich heritage and diverse wildlife, this park is ideal for camping trips with family or friends. Popular campsites include Hayfield, Cold Springs Farm and Beechcroft Farm Camping.
3. Snowdonia National Park, North Wales
Snowdonia National Park is one of the most beautiful places to camp in the UK. It is home to Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, and has a range of camping options, from secluded and away from the crowds to more structured campsites with amenities. Some popular campsites include Dolgam Campsite, Gwynedd Holiday Park and Plas Gwyn Camping Park.
4. The Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
The Cairngorms National Park is an expansive natural reserve with exquisite landscapes and a range of wildlife. The park is known for its rugged terrain, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery. There are numerous camping options in the park, from campsites nestled in the woods to those overlooking the river. Some popular campsites include Braemar Caravan Park, Invernahavon Caravan Site and Invercauld Caravan Club Site.
5. Norfolk Coast AONB, East Anglia
The Norfolk Coast AONB is an unspoiled natural paradise with a beautiful coastline, wild beaches, and wide expanses of sky. There are numerous camping options here, particularly for those who enjoy bird-watching, cycling, and walking. Some of the popular campsites include Clippesby Hall, Sandringham Camping, and Deepdale Camping.
6. Dartmoor National Park, Devon
Dartmoor National Park is one of the most picturesque and exciting places to camp in the UK. It has a range of terrains, from open moorland to wooded valleys and bogs. The park is popular with nature lovers, hikers, and cyclists. Some of the popular campsites include Langstone Manor, Harford Bunkhouse and camping, and Red Lion Inn.
7. The New Forest National Park, Hampshire
The New Forest is a popular destination, known for its rustic charm, scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The park is perfect for those who love to cycle, hike, and explore. There are also numerous camping options available here, from those nestled in the woods to those overlooking the river. Popular campsites include Hollands Wood, Ashurst Campsite, and Red Shoot Camping Park.
8. Cornwall
The southwest of England is home to some of the UK’s best camping spots, including Cornwall. It has a range of stunning coastline, picturesque countryside, and historic landmarks that are perfect for camping. From the iconic Cornish beaches to the rolling hills of Bodmin Moor, there are campsites to suit every need. Popular campsites include Treloan Coastal Farm Holidays, Trewethett Farm Caravan and Camping, and St Mabyn Holiday Park.
Conclusion
The UK has some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse locations that are perfect for camping. From the rugged landscapes of Scotland and Wales to the rolling countryside of Devon and Cornwall, there are campsites to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a wild camping experience in the midst of a national park or a more structured setting with amenities, there are campsites to match your needs.