Flatford
Mill, famously pictured in John Constable’s The Hay Wain, may be 15 miles away
but you could well expect it to be a mere 15 yards away if you come to
Rushbanks Farm Campsite. The place has all the hallmarks of a Constable oil
painting. The River Stour edges the grassland of the camping meadow, almost
stationary it’s so slow; fat lily pads pepper along its edges and tall native
trees tower along the opposite bank. There are no horses or carts, of course,
and the odd campervan slightly modernises the scene. But the beauty of this
campsite is that really it’s left entirely untouched – a timeless slice of
countryside where you can camp with minimal fuss (particularly if you opt for one of the riverside bell tents).
Opened in
the 1950’s and now run by the third generation of the Bates family, Rushbanks
is the only campsite directly on the banks of the River Stour. Along with its
painting-worthy aesthetics it also has some features that make it an easy
choice for a Hipcamp
recommendation. There’s a thoroughly laid-back atmosphere, campfires are
permitted (firepits provided for the bell tents) and the local pub is not only within walking distance but also within
paddling distance, with canoes available to rent for gliding the scenic two mile route.
For urban
amenities it’s a 20-minute drive into Colchester town centre, but naturally it’s the rural
charm of Dedham Vale that’s most appealing. The 15th century
buildings in nearby Nayland, the thatched roofs in medieval Lavenham or visits
to Kentwell Hall, where actors recreate Tudor scenes, all play on the timeless
appearance of the surrounding countryside. It’s difficult to find a more
charming riverside campsite in the UK.