Camping in Bedgebury Forest

·

Just southeast of Tunbridge Wells, in Kent’s southern folds, this forest takes in one of the most important conifer-tree collections in the world. Within bird-rich Bedgebury National Pinetum’s 350 acres—a Grade II listed landscape—glinting lakes sit among 12,000 trees with sweeping valley views, including 400-year-old English oak trees and towering California redwoods. As autumn takes hold, the forest turns a beautiful rusty red. Explore the walking, running, mountain biking, and cycling trails, head out on horseback, or tackle the kid-friendly treetop rope course before retreating to a nearby riverside campsite, a stylish glamping yurt, or a bell tent farmstay.

97% (2.1K) 656 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bedgebury Forest

The Barn KT9

1. The Barn KT9

97%
(271)
22 units · Tents, Glamping · Greater London, South East England
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Chalky Downs

2. Chalky Downs

96%
(605)
10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Brighton, East Sussex, South East England
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£16
 / night
The Sunnyfield Campsite

3. The Sunnyfield Campsite

94%
(99)
25 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England
Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£38
 / night
Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

4. Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

16 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Welcome to Furnace Brook, a tranquil 60-acre Ecosystem Restoration Community tucked away in the rolling countryside of East Sussex. Here, peace, wildlife, and connection to nature come first. Whether you’re waking up in a handcrafted lakeside cabin or camping beneath the stars, this is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover calm. At the heart of the land lies our beautiful lake, surrounded by native trees and wildflowers. Herons, dragonflies, and kingfishers visit often, and misty mornings give way to glowing sunsets reflected on the water. Our cabins blend simple comfort with rustic charm — natural materials and wide windows that open to birdsong. For campers, we have rural private pitches or spacious and communal spaces. It’s quiet here — no loud music, no generators, just the crackle of a fire and the sounds of nature at night. Furnace Brook is part of a working Ecosystem Restoration Community. Every stay supports rewilding and soil regeneration, helping wildlife and woodland return to the landscape. Guests are welcome to wander our trails, learn about the restoration work, or simply enjoy being surrounded by thriving nature. We also brew our own small-batch Furnace Brook Beer, made with local ingredients — the perfect companion for a lakeside sunset or a cosy evening by the fire. If you’re looking for stillness, beauty, and a genuine connection to the natural world, Furnace Brook offers it in abundance. Come to rest, reflect, and experience life at nature’s pace. January Booking Special: Save 10% on all stays booked in January for any dates later this year with CODE: TSWVL3G2
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night
The Nut Plat Retreat

5. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%
(73)
3 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England
Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£88
 / night
Far and Away Camping

6. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

7. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%
(13)
3 units · Glamping · East Hoathly, Near Lewes, England
The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£90
 / night
The Slips

8. The Slips

91%
(85)
39 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Henfield, England
A relaxed, back-to-basics campsite in the West Sussex countryside
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£19
 / night
Beech Estate Campsite

9. Beech Estate Campsite

97%
(185)
57 units · Tents, Glamping · Battle, England
Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£27
 / night
Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

10. Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

95%
(104)
41 units · Tents, Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England
Pitches, bell tents and a gypsy caravan on the outskirts of Canterbury
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£11
 / night
Luna Domes

11. Luna Domes

100%
(9)
8 units · Glamping · East Grinstead, England
High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England
Pets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
£192
 / night
Bellatent

12. Bellatent

100%
(3)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night
Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

13. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%
(1)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£102
 / night
Peacocks Farm Campsite

14. Peacocks Farm Campsite

100%
(1)
20 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England
A private nature reserve with secluded wild pitches for both tents and campervans. Flushing toilets, hot showers, campfires and a nature rich experience
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Dogwood Cottage Campsite

15. Dogwood Cottage Campsite

81%
(24)
11 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Rye, England
Come and meet the chickens and ducks, friendly pygmy goats and miniature shetland pony Dino at Dogwood Camping, a gem in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. We are a small, friendly, family-run campsite set in the High Weald area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a perfect base from which to explore the beaches, castles, ancient woodlands and towns like Rye, Battle and Hastings. Dogwood is in the pretty village of Brede, and is walking distance from two fine country pubs. We are surrounded by stunning countryside where you can take your dog for a short stroll across the fields or go for a long romp through the woods and valleys. Or just sit and relax, listen to the birds and soak up the peace and quiet. We are fortunate to be in a 'dark sky' area, perfect for long, relaxing summer nights around the campfie, sipping hot chocolate, toasting marshmallows and spotting shooting stars! During the summer our site is a popular spot for families and campers visiting nearby Camber Sands sandy beach and year round we welcome all different types of campervan, motorhome and caravan. We look forward to welcome you to our little slice of paradise. Please note our strict 'no group' policy - we only accept single families, single couple and single campers. No more than 2 adults in any group, even on separate pitches. Please bring your acoustic guitar or similar but, as this is a quiet site, please no radios, stereos or videos unless you're using headphones. The birdsong here is incredible by the way! Very wet weather and winter – please note in the off-season, and if very wet, the camping field is closed to vehicles, replaced instead by semi-hardstanding areas or our summer car-park area. Facilities are open but please be prepared for the vagaries of the weather, leaves, puddles and mud. To change pitch please let us know asap so that we can try if possible to find you another. Apart from the car-park, pitches can get very muddy in prolonged, heavy rain. If you are not prepared for these eventualities please do not book.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
The Sunset Tree

16. The Sunset Tree

96%
(34)
30 units · Tents, Glamping · West Sussex, South East England
A sociable, tents-only, pop-up campsite, with a good village pub and playground on the doorstep
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£17
 / night
Battle Pods & Bells

17. Battle Pods & Bells

100%
(13)
10 units · Glamping · Battle, England
Off grid bell tents and pods in a woodland just outside Battle
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£80
 / night
Dogwood Glamping

18. Dogwood Glamping

90%
(42)
4 units · Glamping · Rye, England
The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£95
 / night
Otter Channel Campsite

19. Otter Channel Campsite

95%
(159)
18 units · Tents · East Sussex, South East England
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

20. Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

95%
(10)
1 unit · Tent · England
Hill Top Farm Wild Camping has just one pitch but the folk here keep the grass trimmed for easy pitching and you can park right next to the pitch. It's a tiny Wild Camping site with no running water, toilets or showers. What Noakes Meadow does have is plenty of space for you to enjoy and camp fires are definitely allowed. A wheelbarrow of fire wood can be purchased for £10 Cash/Paypal/Bank Transfer on arrival. This site is far away from the madding crowds though close to the M20 and A20 for easy access. A mere 10-minute stroll along the road is a fab 16th-century country inn for food and pints. On the other hand you could always fire up a barbie and sizzle some sausages or grab a take away from the chippie 7 minutes away in the nearby village of Lenham. This wild camping site operates a leave no trace policy so be prepared to bag up and take everything with you when you leave.
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night

Just southeast of Tunbridge Wells, in Kent’s southern folds, this forest takes in one of the most important conifer-tree collections in the world. Within bird-rich Bedgebury National Pinetum’s 350 acres—a Grade II listed landscape—glinting lakes sit among 12,000 trees with sweeping valley views, including 400-year-old English oak trees and towering California redwoods. As autumn takes hold, the forest turns a beautiful rusty red. Explore the walking, running, mountain biking, and cycling trails, head out on horseback, or tackle the kid-friendly treetop rope course before retreating to a nearby riverside campsite, a stylish glamping yurt, or a bell tent farmstay.

97% (2.1K) 656 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bedgebury Forest

The Barn KT9

1. The Barn KT9

97%
(271)
22 units · Tents, Glamping · Greater London, South East England
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Chalky Downs

2. Chalky Downs

96%
(605)
10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Brighton, East Sussex, South East England
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£16
 / night
The Sunnyfield Campsite

3. The Sunnyfield Campsite

94%
(99)
25 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England
Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£38
 / night
Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

4. Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

16 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Welcome to Furnace Brook, a tranquil 60-acre Ecosystem Restoration Community tucked away in the rolling countryside of East Sussex. Here, peace, wildlife, and connection to nature come first. Whether you’re waking up in a handcrafted lakeside cabin or camping beneath the stars, this is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover calm. At the heart of the land lies our beautiful lake, surrounded by native trees and wildflowers. Herons, dragonflies, and kingfishers visit often, and misty mornings give way to glowing sunsets reflected on the water. Our cabins blend simple comfort with rustic charm — natural materials and wide windows that open to birdsong. For campers, we have rural private pitches or spacious and communal spaces. It’s quiet here — no loud music, no generators, just the crackle of a fire and the sounds of nature at night. Furnace Brook is part of a working Ecosystem Restoration Community. Every stay supports rewilding and soil regeneration, helping wildlife and woodland return to the landscape. Guests are welcome to wander our trails, learn about the restoration work, or simply enjoy being surrounded by thriving nature. We also brew our own small-batch Furnace Brook Beer, made with local ingredients — the perfect companion for a lakeside sunset or a cosy evening by the fire. If you’re looking for stillness, beauty, and a genuine connection to the natural world, Furnace Brook offers it in abundance. Come to rest, reflect, and experience life at nature’s pace. January Booking Special: Save 10% on all stays booked in January for any dates later this year with CODE: TSWVL3G2
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night
The Nut Plat Retreat

5. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%
(73)
3 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England
Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£88
 / night
Far and Away Camping

6. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

7. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%
(13)
3 units · Glamping · East Hoathly, Near Lewes, England
The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£90
 / night
The Slips

8. The Slips

91%
(85)
39 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Henfield, England
A relaxed, back-to-basics campsite in the West Sussex countryside
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£19
 / night
Beech Estate Campsite

9. Beech Estate Campsite

97%
(185)
57 units · Tents, Glamping · Battle, England
Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£27
 / night
Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

10. Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

95%
(104)
41 units · Tents, Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England
Pitches, bell tents and a gypsy caravan on the outskirts of Canterbury
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£11
 / night
Luna Domes

11. Luna Domes

100%
(9)
8 units · Glamping · East Grinstead, England
High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England
Pets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
£192
 / night
Bellatent

12. Bellatent

100%
(3)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night
Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

13. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%
(1)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£102
 / night
Peacocks Farm Campsite

14. Peacocks Farm Campsite

100%
(1)
20 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England
A private nature reserve with secluded wild pitches for both tents and campervans. Flushing toilets, hot showers, campfires and a nature rich experience
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Dogwood Cottage Campsite

15. Dogwood Cottage Campsite

81%
(24)
11 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Rye, England
Come and meet the chickens and ducks, friendly pygmy goats and miniature shetland pony Dino at Dogwood Camping, a gem in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. We are a small, friendly, family-run campsite set in the High Weald area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a perfect base from which to explore the beaches, castles, ancient woodlands and towns like Rye, Battle and Hastings. Dogwood is in the pretty village of Brede, and is walking distance from two fine country pubs. We are surrounded by stunning countryside where you can take your dog for a short stroll across the fields or go for a long romp through the woods and valleys. Or just sit and relax, listen to the birds and soak up the peace and quiet. We are fortunate to be in a 'dark sky' area, perfect for long, relaxing summer nights around the campfie, sipping hot chocolate, toasting marshmallows and spotting shooting stars! During the summer our site is a popular spot for families and campers visiting nearby Camber Sands sandy beach and year round we welcome all different types of campervan, motorhome and caravan. We look forward to welcome you to our little slice of paradise. Please note our strict 'no group' policy - we only accept single families, single couple and single campers. No more than 2 adults in any group, even on separate pitches. Please bring your acoustic guitar or similar but, as this is a quiet site, please no radios, stereos or videos unless you're using headphones. The birdsong here is incredible by the way! Very wet weather and winter – please note in the off-season, and if very wet, the camping field is closed to vehicles, replaced instead by semi-hardstanding areas or our summer car-park area. Facilities are open but please be prepared for the vagaries of the weather, leaves, puddles and mud. To change pitch please let us know asap so that we can try if possible to find you another. Apart from the car-park, pitches can get very muddy in prolonged, heavy rain. If you are not prepared for these eventualities please do not book.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
The Sunset Tree

16. The Sunset Tree

96%
(34)
30 units · Tents, Glamping · West Sussex, South East England
A sociable, tents-only, pop-up campsite, with a good village pub and playground on the doorstep
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£17
 / night
Battle Pods & Bells

17. Battle Pods & Bells

100%
(13)
10 units · Glamping · Battle, England
Off grid bell tents and pods in a woodland just outside Battle
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£80
 / night
Dogwood Glamping

18. Dogwood Glamping

90%
(42)
4 units · Glamping · Rye, England
The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£95
 / night
Otter Channel Campsite

19. Otter Channel Campsite

95%
(159)
18 units · Tents · East Sussex, South East England
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

20. Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

95%
(10)
1 unit · Tent · England
Hill Top Farm Wild Camping has just one pitch but the folk here keep the grass trimmed for easy pitching and you can park right next to the pitch. It's a tiny Wild Camping site with no running water, toilets or showers. What Noakes Meadow does have is plenty of space for you to enjoy and camp fires are definitely allowed. A wheelbarrow of fire wood can be purchased for £10 Cash/Paypal/Bank Transfer on arrival. This site is far away from the madding crowds though close to the M20 and A20 for easy access. A mere 10-minute stroll along the road is a fab 16th-century country inn for food and pints. On the other hand you could always fire up a barbie and sizzle some sausages or grab a take away from the chippie 7 minutes away in the nearby village of Lenham. This wild camping site operates a leave no trace policy so be prepared to bag up and take everything with you when you leave.
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night

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Camping in Bedgebury Forest guide

Where to go

High Weald AONB

White-chalk cliffs, medieval villages, ancient forests, snaking valleys, and windswept heathlands are just some of the many charms of the High Weald AONB, England’s fourth-biggest. This area extends for almost 580 square miles across Kent, Sussex, and Surrey, offering outstanding hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and horse riding opportunities. Pitch up at a low-key farm, a riverside park, or a beach-view caravan camp—otherwise, hunt down glamping yurts, safari tents, and shepherds’ huts in the hills.

Kent Downs AONB

From fragrant lavender fields to precariously perched escarpments, this swathe of back-to-nature Kent is all about dramatic views, and makes up one of the southeast’s major wildlife conservation spaces. Its 340 square miles of delightfully varied landscapes stretch from Dover’s white sea cliffs all the way to the Surrey border. The 164-mile-long North Downs Way is a highlight among its endlessly rewarding rambling paths.

The Kent Coast

Stretching from just north of lovely Rye (in East Sussex) to bohemian Margate, then west past Whitstable almost to London, Kent’s dazzling coastline is a favourite warm-weather playground—book well ahead! Hikers can tackle part of the long-distance England Coast Path where water sports abound, from sea kayaking around Ramsgate to tidal-pool swimming in Margate. Make a beeline for the wonderfully scenic Kent coastal campsites.

South Downs

While exploring the High Weald, don’t miss its spectacularly scenic neighbour, the 615-square-mile South Downs National Park, whose 1,864 miles of walking trails sweep across green-clad hills to chalk-dusted cliffs overlooking the English Channel. Hike along the South Downs Way, go paragliding, horse riding, or mountain-biking, and spot wildlife such as otters, owls, and skylarks.