Family Camping in Dedham Vale AONB: Best Family Campsites 2025

Deep in the Stour Valley, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty encompasses forests, farmland, villages, and waterways, making it a Great British favourite among ramblers, riders, boaters, and anglers alike. Nicknamed Constable Country for its links to Romantic artist John Constable, the region boasts a vast network of footpaths and cycleways, which reveal striking seasonal landscapes to outdoor adventurers at any time of year. Touring parks, riverside pitches, and no-frills field sites are the camping mainstays of the region.

93% (335)

Top-rated campgrounds

Deep in the Stour Valley, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty encompasses forests, farmland, villages, and waterways, making it a Great British favourite among ramblers, riders, boaters, and anglers alike. Nicknamed Constable Country for its links to Romantic artist John Constable, the region boasts a vast network of footpaths and cycleways, which reveal striking seasonal landscapes to outdoor adventurers at any time of year. Touring parks, riverside pitches, and no-frills field sites are the camping mainstays of the region.

93% (335)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

97%

(143)

20 units · Tents, Glamping · Ely, Cambridgeshire, East Anglia

Cosy year-round glamping and seasonal camping in a fenland meadow with views of Ely cathedral

2. 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

3. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%

(164)

72 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads

4. Daisy May’s Farm

87%

(178)

10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Bishop's Stortford, England

Our pop up campsite is set in 20 acres on a not for profit community farm. Come and join us in the great outdoors! Help collect the eggs, feed the chickens and milk the goat! There is always lots going on at Daisy May’s Farm! Children’s play areas, paddle stream, woodland walks and lots more! PITCH FEE INCLUDES ENTRY TO THE FARM & ALL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS! Open 7 days a week. Coffee Cabin and Ollie’s Food Hut also serving hot food (Weekends & school holiday 10-3pm) Local pub - 5 mins walk Golf Course (crazy golf, top golf, 9 hole course, bar and food) - 5 mins walk Shop/post office/chip shop - 10 mins walk Toilets & shower ; hot gas shower available but we are a basic wild, mostly off grid site. No concrete heated toilet blocks I’m afraid! (Showers unavailable in Winter months) There will be mud. Bring your wellies! Drinking water and bins available. Bring a torch for walking around the site at night. The site is off grid and the toilet lights are solar operated! CARAVANS - ONLY BOOKABLE MAY - SEPTEMBERTENTS - CAMPER VANS - MOTORHOMES WELCOME ALL YEAR (all pitches are the same. No need to specify which type of unit you are booking) We look forwards to welcoming you soon!

5. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%

(25)

43 units · Tents, Glamping · England

Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.

6. Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

90%

(20)

39 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Sudbury, Suffolk, East Anglia

Update we allow cars ad camper and this land has a special energy. Set in the valley with the hillside gives 360 degrees view of natural landscape. Wethersfield Eco Project is the historic parkland of Wethersfield Manor. Veteren Oaks and Sequoia Grace the woodland hillside with badgers and foxes in the sandy hills, buzzards and kites soaring the ponds full of dragonfly. Great space for a family or romantic getaway or larger group party. If you are a group under 10 people please expect to share the space with others but we'll ensure you have your own private area! Bring your sound system and have your own party or event. Music must be off after 11pm as houses are 500metres away. Price is per adult 16 or over per night 11am to 11am checkout. Late checkout or day rate til 5pm is 10 per adult. Kids free. Dogs are 5 pounds.

7. Finchingfield Lavender & Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Finchingfield, England

Luxury camping and glamping pitches within a wildflower meadow. Private loo per pitch, fire pit with BBQ Grill & a picnic bench. Our North Essex hideaway is perfect for a country retreat under the stars. Just over an hour away from London, located in a rural setting outside the chocolate box village of Finchingfield with tea rooms and three great independent pubs. We are a micro Lavender farm home to 3.5 kms of hand planted Lavandula × intermedia 'Lavender Grosso'. Our campers and glampers have unlimited access to our lavender field which overlooks rolling fields and sunset views, perfect for a relaxing evening amongst the purple blooms

8. Brakehill Lodge Farm Camping

100%

(45)

5 units · Glamping · Norfolk, England

Small, secluded, homespun farm campsite in rural Norfolk, a short drive from Thetford Forest Park

Camper favorites in and near Dedham Vale AONB

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Daisy May’s Farm

87%

(178)

10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Bishop's Stortford, England

Our pop up campsite is set in 20 acres on a not for profit community farm. Come and join us in the great outdoors! Help collect the eggs, feed the chickens and milk the goat! There is always lots going on at Daisy May’s Farm! Children’s play areas, paddle stream, woodland walks and lots more! PITCH FEE INCLUDES ENTRY TO THE FARM & ALL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS! Open 7 days a week. Coffee Cabin and Ollie’s Food Hut also serving hot food (Weekends & school holiday 10-3pm) Local pub - 5 mins walk Golf Course (crazy golf, top golf, 9 hole course, bar and food) - 5 mins walk Shop/post office/chip shop - 10 mins walk Toilets & shower ; hot gas shower available but we are a basic wild, mostly off grid site. No concrete heated toilet blocks I’m afraid! (Showers unavailable in Winter months) There will be mud. Bring your wellies! Drinking water and bins available. Bring a torch for walking around the site at night. The site is off grid and the toilet lights are solar operated! CARAVANS - ONLY BOOKABLE MAY - SEPTEMBERTENTS - CAMPER VANS - MOTORHOMES WELCOME ALL YEAR (all pitches are the same. No need to specify which type of unit you are booking) We look forwards to welcoming you soon!

Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%

(25)

43 units · Tents, Glamping · England

Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.

Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

90%

(20)

39 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Sudbury, Suffolk, East Anglia

Update we allow cars ad camper and this land has a special energy. Set in the valley with the hillside gives 360 degrees view of natural landscape. Wethersfield Eco Project is the historic parkland of Wethersfield Manor. Veteren Oaks and Sequoia Grace the woodland hillside with badgers and foxes in the sandy hills, buzzards and kites soaring the ponds full of dragonfly. Great space for a family or romantic getaway or larger group party. If you are a group under 10 people please expect to share the space with others but we'll ensure you have your own private area! Bring your sound system and have your own party or event. Music must be off after 11pm as houses are 500metres away. Price is per adult 16 or over per night 11am to 11am checkout. Late checkout or day rate til 5pm is 10 per adult. Kids free. Dogs are 5 pounds.

Finchingfield Lavender & Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Finchingfield, England

Luxury camping and glamping pitches within a wildflower meadow. Private loo per pitch, fire pit with BBQ Grill & a picnic bench. Our North Essex hideaway is perfect for a country retreat under the stars. Just over an hour away from London, located in a rural setting outside the chocolate box village of Finchingfield with tea rooms and three great independent pubs. We are a micro Lavender farm home to 3.5 kms of hand planted Lavandula × intermedia 'Lavender Grosso'. Our campers and glampers have unlimited access to our lavender field which overlooks rolling fields and sunset views, perfect for a relaxing evening amongst the purple blooms

Brakehill Lodge Farm Camping

100%

(45)

5 units · Glamping · Norfolk, England

Small, secluded, homespun farm campsite in rural Norfolk, a short drive from Thetford Forest Park

Stories from the community

A

Alex

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Morag went above and beyond to make myself, my partner and my pals comfortable although only there for a night we had an unforgettable evening and morag most definitely aided in that- thank you so much ❤️

T

Toyah

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

We had such a fun time. Claire (our host) was lovely and made us feel incredibly welcome. We didn't bring anything to sit on (as we had taken public transport) and she was kind enough to lend us some benches for us to use on our patch. She ensured that our wood was kept dry for our campfire and that she was within reach should we need anything. We would definitely return again. Thank you for a lovely evening.

Carl

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

Just the one solo night at Hatters testing out some new equipment. Beautiful and well maintained campsite with a friendly owner Claire, who left me to myself. Non electric pitch.

D

DONGHYUN

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

it was great place! great glamping! host is great!

S

Sunghwan

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

My family really enjoyed one night glamping at this lovely site. It is very quiet and cozy place. Best for family fun and rest.

E

Elisa

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

LOVED this stay. If your little one has sensitive ears you may need ear plugs/defenders as the aircrafts are rather loud. But over all, I loved this trip. Maybe need to take your own headlamp/torch as bathroom lamps were temperamental. Staff were amazing, everything well equipped. Would definitely recommend.

J

Jason

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

My experience at fleet paddock was everything I had hoped for and more all the facilities were clean and well kept , I shared the family bell tent with friends and it had everything we needed for a memorable evening, the campsite was pretty busy but still maintained a peaceful family vibe, I would highly recommend this camping site to anyone wanting to escape the chaos of city life and connect with nature. For me the highlight was the clear sky's at night which revealed the most stars I have ever seen it was amazing 👏 🤩

O

Olly

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

Had a lovely, welcoming and friendly, and really enjoyed the farm, getting to hold 2 day old ducks and bottle feed baby goats. We'll be back

Q

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

Great spot! The field was clean, the views were awesome, and the host was friendly. I’d come back!

F

Frankie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

Great campsite. Lovely site wardens, site and facilities were all very clean and wrll thought out. Friday night pizza was a lovely treat and very tasty. Would deffinetly stay again.

Immerse yourself in a world of enchantment and tranquility with our captivating green bow top caravan, offering a unique and picturesque retreat that promises an unforgettable camping experience.

d

dipika

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

Excellent stay. Beautiful hut and surroundings. Place is exceptionally clean site and the Alex is always available and tops up all facilities and the best of host. Will be back. Dip & Dave

Paul

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

Plenty of space where you’re pretty much left to your own devices. Portaloo in close proximity which was immaculate. You can pick your own pitch either in the wood, the field or next to the lake. We absolutely loved it. A great place to sit round the fire pit, listen to music, sink a beer and reminisce the good times. I found it the perfect place to decompress and forget the outside world! Took paddle boards and a kayak for a day down at Paper Mill Lock and it was perfect. Well worth a visit. £5 for all day parking, tea room and ice cream stall. The place was buzzing!! Tim’s land was the perfect base camp. Bravo Tim!!

C

Cleo

September 2025

With kids

5 nights at Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

We loved your place, it's fantastic. All the little details make it extra special. Clean, great location, swings, a tree house, bats and balls, a kitchen and lounge area, a great view of rabbits in the field from the warm shower. Quite magical. Would definitely come again.

A

Akhil

September 2025

1 night at Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

Place is well maintained and beautiful. It has all the essentials needed and exactly as shown in the pictures. Enjoy making some BBQ food with a view to the open farm 😁

A

Amy

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Lovely place, rustic and very back to nature. My son loved the whole experience! The little river is a winner and him and his friend had the best time on it the boats and paddle boards. Such a lovely relaxing and peaceful place for us adults aswell! Morag was so friendly and approachable and very laid back.

The well-equipped Wild Flower Orchard Bell Tent.

R

Rosemary

August 2025

With kids

4 nights at Brakehill Lodge Farm Camping

My grandchildren and I have stayed at Brakehill Lodge Farm twice. It has proved to be our happy place. Peaceful, and just remote enough to escape the madding crowd. Clare is a considerate host. She loves her home and all the nature it encompasses. Try it...you will love ir too.😀

N

NA

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Daisy May’s Farm

Campsite has lots of space. Farm animals are lovely.

S

Shila

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

We loved camping in the bell tents. The views were amazing. We loved that the sheep and donkey roam around the campsite area. The kids activities were a lovely touch and my son enjoyed taking the goat for a walk. We will be back some day!

B

Brian

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

Love Daisy Mays. The staff are polite and helpful. The vibe is relaxed and the site is generally clean and well maintained. The only thing that could do with attention are the toilets. They are basic (which is ok, no-one is expecting luxury) but they could do with being checked by staff more regularly. The bins were always full and the locks on the doors were a nightmare.

S

Sal

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Daisy May’s Farm

Good site decent facilities and lots of animals around the camp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Family camping in Dedham Vale AONB guide

Where to go

Dedham

The village that gives the valley its name, Dedham is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers right on the River Stour. From here, several walking and cycling routes take adventurers deep into Constable Country, via landmarks such as the Church of St Mary the Virgin, Castle House, Fern Bridge, and Flatford Mill. Private farmland provides plenty of camping options, while Ardleigh to the south boasts its own caravan site.

Nayland & Wissington

These two villages in the west of Dedham Vale AONB remain off the region’s beaten track, despite their riverside locations and Norman landmarks. Strolling along the Stour’s banks and wildlife-watching from the water are both popular pastimes here, with canoe rental available at area campsites.

Bures & Sudbury

These well-connected towns just west of Dedham Vale offer easy access to both Essex and Suffolk, as well as the Area of Natural Beauty itself, and can be reached in just over an hour from London Liverpool Street. Bikers can explore the rolling cyclepath that connects the two rural towns, while walkers can wander the area’s reserves, woodland, and water meadows. Camping options include wild-style experiences or caravanning at one of the region’s touring parks.

Cattawade, Manningtree & the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB

The spot where the River Stour splits is a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its striking views, nature reserves, and waterside campsites. Plus, just a stone’s throw away is the beginning of the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, which stretches up the coastline all the way to Lowestoft. Coastal caravan parks and campgrounds make it easy to tick both AONBs off in one tour.