Woodland glamping 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% (485)

Top-rated campgrounds

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% (485)

Top-rated campgrounds

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

2. Beech Estate Campsite

97%

(185)

57 units · Tents, Glamping · Battle, England

Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway

3. Palace Farm Campsite

99%

(58)

28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Kent, South East England

Unpretentious and peaceful camping in an underrated spot

4. Surrey Hills Yurts & Bell Tents

9 units · Glamping · Surrey, South East England

Yurt glamping in the Surrey Hills

5. Dogwood Glamping

90%

(42)

4 units · Glamping · Rye, England

The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats

6. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping

95%

(65)

17 units · Tents, Glamping · East Sussex, South East England

Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands

7. Wild Boar Wood Campsite

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(68)

9 units · Glamping · Haywards Heath, England

Wild woodland glamping in the heart of Sussex with fires

8. The Secret Campsite

99%

(91)

21 units · Tents, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England

A not so secret campsite in East Sussex with camping and glamping – and campfires encouraged

9. Battle Pods & Bells

100%

(13)

10 units · Glamping · Battle, England

Off grid bell tents and pods in a woodland just outside Battle

10. Strawberry Lane Tree Tent campsite

100%

(5)

2 units · Glamping · Storrington, West Sussex, South East England

Camping - elevated! A brand new offering to West Sussex, the Tree Tent is a glamping experience unlike no other. This sustainable, comfortable and unique setting provides a different perspective of the British woodlands. Your stay includes this whole site, with no other campers in site! The Tree Tent, kitchen and dining space, wood-fired bath and separate bathroom and shower are all yours for the duration of your stay. The Tree Tent sleeps one or two, complete with a double bed with bespoke bedding, heating, skylight, USB ports, desk and storage. Solar power lights up the site and provides you with electricity in the Tree Tent too. There is also private use of the Hot Tank, a wood-fired outdoor tub designed for wild bathing, and an outdoor heater and pizza oven. With thoughtful design and amenities, and gorgeous views across Little Thakeham Farm through your treetop haven, this private sanctuary above the forest floor allows you to truly immerse yourself in nature, and forget the hustle and bustle of the daily grind. When it comes to food and drink, your tea and coffee needs are provided - as well as a wood-fired pizza oven. Collect fresh ingredients from the local farm shops, or visit one of the lovely restaurants and vineyards in the area. Not to mention - when the bluebells are in bloom, they coat the forest floor below you! ---- 🚗 ~30 mins from Brighton 🚗 ~12 mins from Billingshurst Station, which is - 🚅 ~1 hr 10 mins from London Victoria

11. Lockhurst Hatch Farm Glamping

100%

(8)

1 unit · Glamping · Surrey, South East England

A single, traditional shepherd's hut with countryside views, and a cosy feel

12. Woolton Farm

87%

(19)

24 units · Tents, Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Camping pitches and bell tents on an apple farm in Kent

13. Pepperscombe Cottages & Glamping

100%

(1)

3 units · Glamping · Steyning, England

Welcome to Pepperscombe Farm. We offer cosy accommodation & glamping on a farm on the outskirts of picturesque Steyning town. There's direct access from the farm to the South Downs National Park with local footpaths and trails for mountain biking. Easy walking distance to local shops, pubs and restaurants and a 20 minute drive to the local beaches. We look forward to welcoming you to this magical space and retreat.

14. Berty the yurty

94%

(18)

1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.

15. Secluded AONB group glamping

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(5)

1 unit · Glamping · Battle, England

Babylon Woods is made up of 90 acres of unspoilt countryside, most of which is ancient woodlands. Our glamping site is located in a 19 Acre field which is exclusively yours, not another soul (certainly no other campers) will disturb you apart from the odd rabbit or dear! The south coast is only 10 mins away with all kinds of water activities and hikes to enjoy. On site you have plenty of woodland walks to explore and if you are a fan of English Wine, we are slap bang in the middle of wine country with numerous vineyards to explore locally.

16. Barefoot yurts and Safari Tent

100%

(2)

2 units · Glamping · Rye, England

A unique self catering holiday   in an area of outstanding beauty Near Rye in East Sussex Escape to the peace and tranquility of the secluded countryside We offer a magical experience where you will connect with nature and fully relax. No neighbours, total privacy and uninterrupted views of the Brede valley. We feel very lucky to live in such a beautiful location where we are surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. Your experience at Barefoot yurts and Barefoot safari tent will be one that you never forget and be a place you want to come back to again and again, as so many of our guests do. We very much look forward to welcoming you. When you book our self catering Yurts or Our Safari tent you will have the whole site to yourselves. Both are in very private separate locations. Barefoot yurts has been a family business since 2009 Barefoot Yurts has 2 yurts booked together. One a bedroom and the other a sitting room that has sofa beds. There is a log cabin kitchen and shower room which is fully fitted and equipped for most cooking needs with electricity. The compost loo is next to the kitchen exclusive to the yurt guests. Barefoot safari tent is for 2 adults only. All under one roof is the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Off Grid.

17. 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

18. The Baker's Hut

100%

(1)

1 unit · Glamping · Ashurst, England

A shepherd’s hut hideaway for two in rural Sussex

19. The Woodland Wagon

1 unit · Glamping · England

The whimsical and imaginative accommodation you’ll discover at The Woodland Wagon, actually comprises two beautiful wagons, one for sleeping, and one for lying down and looking at the beautiful Rye Bay. …plus, a piano room, a summer house, and a huge tipi style tent that once featured in the film ‘King Arthur’, now a perfect space for private meditation, yoga, or tai chi! Nestled within magical ancient woodland in the sleepy village of Pett, you’ll be surrounded by views of peaceful ‘1066 countryside’, that lead your gaze all the way out to sea. (Seriously, what better location for a blissfully secluded, ultra-romantic break with your loved one?) The first, spacious, wagon is the setting for relaxed open plan studio living and snoozing; furnished with two squishy chairs, a Smart TV, a kitchen and dining area, and a gorgeous kingsize bed that’s ideal for lazy lie-ins. Just a few steps away is a refreshing shower room and separate compost toilet, along with some outdoor seating and a firepit for al fresco enjoyment of your woodland garden – although you could always retreat to the tent for some quiet contemplation, or head across to the piano room and tinkle those ivories! In the mood for a snack? The summer house is home to a commercial pizza oven, while the exquisite 1940’s showman’s wagon is an ideal haven for relaxing vintage-style; equipped with a warming wood-burner to curl up in front of, with a post-pizza tipple nicely in hand.

20. Crockstead Fields Yurts

2 units · Glamping · Horam, England

Crockstead Fields is an eco-friendly boutique campsite tucked away in a secluded field in the East Sussex countryside. Packed with unique features and a range of luxury sleeping options, we are excited to open up our 2023 diary for summer camping expeditions. Within the site you can find hot showers, compost toilets, garden games, multiple seating areas and a fire pit. Our 10 furnished bell tents have been decorated specifically for the site and are a great camping option for those not looking to lug around a tent and bedding. There are some great local pubs and walks and over weekends you can find a working bar, catering options and various other elements in place on the site. Launching the 2023 season we have lined up an opening party weekend on the 26th May featuring plenty of family based fun and a range of camping options now available to book.

Camper favorites in and near Bedgebury Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Pepperscombe Cottages & Glamping

100%

(1)

3 units · Glamping · Steyning, England

Welcome to Pepperscombe Farm. We offer cosy accommodation & glamping on a farm on the outskirts of picturesque Steyning town. There's direct access from the farm to the South Downs National Park with local footpaths and trails for mountain biking. Easy walking distance to local shops, pubs and restaurants and a 20 minute drive to the local beaches. We look forward to welcoming you to this magical space and retreat.

Berty the yurty

94%

(18)

1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.

Secluded AONB group glamping

100%

(5)

1 unit · Glamping · Battle, England

Babylon Woods is made up of 90 acres of unspoilt countryside, most of which is ancient woodlands. Our glamping site is located in a 19 Acre field which is exclusively yours, not another soul (certainly no other campers) will disturb you apart from the odd rabbit or dear! The south coast is only 10 mins away with all kinds of water activities and hikes to enjoy. On site you have plenty of woodland walks to explore and if you are a fan of English Wine, we are slap bang in the middle of wine country with numerous vineyards to explore locally.

Barefoot yurts and Safari Tent

100%

(2)

2 units · Glamping · Rye, England

A unique self catering holiday   in an area of outstanding beauty Near Rye in East Sussex Escape to the peace and tranquility of the secluded countryside We offer a magical experience where you will connect with nature and fully relax. No neighbours, total privacy and uninterrupted views of the Brede valley. We feel very lucky to live in such a beautiful location where we are surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. Your experience at Barefoot yurts and Barefoot safari tent will be one that you never forget and be a place you want to come back to again and again, as so many of our guests do. We very much look forward to welcoming you. When you book our self catering Yurts or Our Safari tent you will have the whole site to yourselves. Both are in very private separate locations. Barefoot yurts has been a family business since 2009 Barefoot Yurts has 2 yurts booked together. One a bedroom and the other a sitting room that has sofa beds. There is a log cabin kitchen and shower room which is fully fitted and equipped for most cooking needs with electricity. The compost loo is next to the kitchen exclusive to the yurt guests. Barefoot safari tent is for 2 adults only. All under one roof is the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Off Grid.

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

The Baker's Hut

100%

(1)

1 unit · Glamping · Ashurst, England

A shepherd’s hut hideaway for two in rural Sussex

The Woodland Wagon

1 unit · Glamping · England

The whimsical and imaginative accommodation you’ll discover at The Woodland Wagon, actually comprises two beautiful wagons, one for sleeping, and one for lying down and looking at the beautiful Rye Bay. …plus, a piano room, a summer house, and a huge tipi style tent that once featured in the film ‘King Arthur’, now a perfect space for private meditation, yoga, or tai chi! Nestled within magical ancient woodland in the sleepy village of Pett, you’ll be surrounded by views of peaceful ‘1066 countryside’, that lead your gaze all the way out to sea. (Seriously, what better location for a blissfully secluded, ultra-romantic break with your loved one?) The first, spacious, wagon is the setting for relaxed open plan studio living and snoozing; furnished with two squishy chairs, a Smart TV, a kitchen and dining area, and a gorgeous kingsize bed that’s ideal for lazy lie-ins. Just a few steps away is a refreshing shower room and separate compost toilet, along with some outdoor seating and a firepit for al fresco enjoyment of your woodland garden – although you could always retreat to the tent for some quiet contemplation, or head across to the piano room and tinkle those ivories! In the mood for a snack? The summer house is home to a commercial pizza oven, while the exquisite 1940’s showman’s wagon is an ideal haven for relaxing vintage-style; equipped with a warming wood-burner to curl up in front of, with a post-pizza tipple nicely in hand.

Crockstead Fields Yurts

2 units · Glamping · Horam, England

Crockstead Fields is an eco-friendly boutique campsite tucked away in a secluded field in the East Sussex countryside. Packed with unique features and a range of luxury sleeping options, we are excited to open up our 2023 diary for summer camping expeditions. Within the site you can find hot showers, compost toilets, garden games, multiple seating areas and a fire pit. Our 10 furnished bell tents have been decorated specifically for the site and are a great camping option for those not looking to lug around a tent and bedding. There are some great local pubs and walks and over weekends you can find a working bar, catering options and various other elements in place on the site. Launching the 2023 season we have lined up an opening party weekend on the 26th May featuring plenty of family based fun and a range of camping options now available to book.

Stories from the community

C

Chat

October 2025

2 nights at Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

Went as a solo traveller, the location was quiet enough to feel secluded enough, the cabin was clean warm with modern comforts, nice local pubs and excellent walks would recommend

E

Emily June

September 2025

2 nights at Strawberry Lane Tree Tent campsite

Incredible stay. Very cozy. Everything you could need is provided. Woke up to birds singing outside and sunshine on our faces. Lovely area for farmers markets and excursions in the countryside.

C

Christine

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

My recent glamping trip in a bell tent was absolutely great, perfectly blending tranquil nature with a comfortable double bed; soft blankets and pillows and the spacious and thoughtfully decorated bell tent ready and waiting for us. We were able to immediately relax and enjoy our surroundings. It was the perfect escape for anyone who has had a long week at work and loves camping with a touch of luxury. The sun was shinning and it was wonderful to lie hammock! I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

A

Alexander

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Battle Pods & Bells

It was great for my first trip with my son 11. Everything was exactly as advertised and more. Will definitely be returning next year and will certainly explore more of the 460acres of stunning woodland.

Philippa

August 2025

With kids

1 night at The Barn KT9

Beautiful spot! I love that each plot has it's own BBQ and fire pit, this really made a difference to our stay. The games are a great touch and being able to walk to the cafe for a coffee and sausage roll in the morning was the icing on the cake. Honesty box for wood and coal, drinking water, clean (flushing!) toilets and showers, everything you could need. Can't wait to come back.

C

Chloe

August 2025

2 nights at Strawberry Lane Tree Tent campsite

Loved our stay at Strawberry Lane Tree Tent. Great secluded location meaning you are able to really switch off. Everything you could need is provided and the directions to the tree tent are clear and easy to follow.

K

Kim

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Dogwood Glamping

We loved the cosy Yurt and the laid back atmosphere a lot! Animals running around the campsite is also a lot of fun, but close the yurt when you are gone or get a visit from the goats that eat what they can find! Phil and his wife were very friendly.

k

kate

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Battle Pods & Bells

Good location. Short walk or drive into Battle. Very well organised and clean camp. Philippa and her husband were welcoming and helpful. We stayed in one of the bells which were comfortable and large enough for two adults and two children.

K

Kamlesh

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Second time here. Fantastic place. Must try. Ever so helpful. Great access to Ashford Common.

V

Victoria

July 2025

1 night at The Barn KT9

We absolutely loved our stay at the Barn KT9. It really is a little slice of camping heaven. The bell tent was beautiful and very comfortable for our family. The shower and bathroom facilities were clean and the on site cafe is a lovely bonus with great coffee!

A

Asa

July 2025

2 nights at Beech Estate Campsite

Everything we wanted it to be. A wonderful peaceful place. We will be back!

R

Ruth

July 2025

With pets

4 nights at Berty the yurty

Berty the Yurty is an amazing set up; the terrace area with the outside kitchen is gorgeous and where I spent most of my time, listening to birds and watching butterflies dance around wild flowers. Seating is well provided for with reclining wooden chairs (i don’t know the proper name for them) and a metal table and chairs which stay remarkably cool in the shade. Hand sanitizer provided around the place and in the composting toilet for use before moving outside and across to the sink for a proper handwashing is just *chefs kiss* I don’t think that there is anything that hasn’t been thought of and provided for an awesome yurting experience here; and if you need anything then George and his team are very responsive via messaging (and I expect by phone and in person for the less shy) to bring more sawdust for the toilet, or eggs and apple juice from the farm that day. If you have the opportunity to go then do! I’m so glad I did!

N

Nicola

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Lovely camping spot! Really cosy and inviting, perfect place to escape from the city just a stone's throw from London, great cafe and onsite facilities (barbecue, coal if needed, toilets, hammocks) - just enough to feel comfortable yet still embracing nature and the great outdoors! We loved it.

R

Ruth

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

We had a lovely stay at the barn. The site had everything we needed! The coffee shop opening early was a huge perk not to mention the amazing gym too! Would highly recommend, thank you so much!

C

Claire

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Great site. So much empty space and calm :) We will definitely be returning with friends..

C

Cherian

June 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Secluded AONB group glamping

I can’t recommend this camping site enough. Nestled within 90 acres of serene, open land, it offers a truly secluded escape from the noise and chaos of everyday life. The setting is stunning – peaceful, untouched, and expansive – with total freedom to roam and unwind. Georgina and Max are exceptional hosts. They’ve thought of absolutely everything, and their attention to detail shows in every corner of the site. From the moment we arrived, everything was smooth and clearly explained. They’ve created that perfect sweet spot between traditional camping and glamping – you get the authentic outdoorsy experience without compromising on convenience or comfort. From essentials to thoughtful extras, everything you could possibly need has been provided. It’s clear they’ve poured a lot of love and effort into making this a truly special place. There were zero issues – no noise, no disturbances – just nature, calm, and comfort. I’ll absolutely be coming back, and I recommend this place wholeheartedly to anyone looking for a proper, well-balanced camping getaway.

C

Claire

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Amazing trip😃 Hammocks were awesome even in the rain and the games were a great addition Bell tent with fire pit was so much fun for a girls night away and the bed was so comfortable Will be back again 👍

v

veronika

May 2025

With pets

2 nights at Berty the yurty

We Stayed in a beautiful yurt nestled near the forest, located on a charming farm. Enjoyed fresh air, peace and quiet, and cozy comforts. Woke up to the scent of nature and started our day with our delicious homemade apple juice and fresh free-range eggs. The warm, welcoming host was happy to share local tips and helped make our stay relaxing and memorable.We would recommend to others 😃👍

S

Sarah

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Dogwood Glamping

Stayed in the cabin for one night. Beautiful location; cabin tucked away in the corner of the site. Owners extremely friendly and responsive. Shared amenities excellent. Would highly recommend

H

Helen

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

KT9 barn is brilliant. The bell tent was spacious and we loved the extra bits of detail on the campsite like the hammocks and badminton net. Outdoor toilets and showers were clean and a good bit of the experience for the kids

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Woodland glamping 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.