Best Brightlingsea campsites for surfing

Looking to go camping near Brightlingsea, England and indulge in some surfing? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 150 options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot to catch some waves. For a budget-friendly option, you can find campsites for as low as £16 per night. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Archer’s Field (38 reviews), Little Thakeham Farm (13 reviews), and Hickling Campsite (12 reviews). With popular facilities like toilets, pet-friendly options, and rubbish disposal, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And don't forget to explore other activities like wildlife watching and climbing while you're there. So grab your surfboard and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

100% (6)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Brightlingsea, England and indulge in some surfing? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 150 options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot to catch some waves. For a budget-friendly option, you can find campsites for as low as £16 per night. Looking for top-rated campsites? Check out Archer’s Field (38 reviews), Little Thakeham Farm (13 reviews), and Hickling Campsite (12 reviews). With popular facilities like toilets, pet-friendly options, and rubbish disposal, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. And don't forget to explore other activities like wildlife watching and climbing while you're there. So grab your surfboard and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

100% (6)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%

(164)

92km from Brightlingsea · 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

2. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%

(29)

126km from Brightlingsea · 108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · King's Lynn, England

🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.

3. Dogwood Glamping

90%

(42)

102km from Brightlingsea · 4 units · Glamping · Rye, England

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

4. Sunnyside Campsite

72km from Brightlingsea · 1 unit · Glamping · Suffolk, East Anglia

Easy camping on a small site in Suffolk

5. Hickling Campsite

99%

(118)

109km from Brightlingsea · 31 units · Tents, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

Tent camping and glamping within walking distance of Norfolk's largest broad and less than 10 minutes' drive from the beach

6. Archer’s Field

97%

(223)

115km from Brightlingsea · 22 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

Scenic, simple camping with North Norfolk's best sights on your doorstep

7. Little Thakeham Farm

97%

(57)

141km from Brightlingsea · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes · West Sussex, South East England

Almost wild camping in rural Sussex, with campfires, good footpaths and a pub within 15 minutes' walk

8. The Field at Findon

100%

(33)

145km from Brightlingsea · 4 units · Glamping · Findon, England

Bell tent camping in the South Downs National Park

9. The Downs Stables Holidays

100%

(2)

144km from Brightlingsea · 2 units · Glamping · Worthing, West Sussex, South East England

Modern glamping pods on a working racing stables in the South Downs

10. Firs Glamping

73km from Brightlingsea · 5 units · Glamping · Southwold, Suffolk, East Anglia

Our small site of 5 spacious bell tents is the perfect spot for a romantic couples retreat, or a relaxed family holiday in this unspoilt village, just 4 miles from the coastal town of Southwold. Nestled between the stunning nature spots of Dunwich, RSPB Minsmere and the Norfolk Broads, you couldn’t be better placed to explore the peaceful Suffolk countryside. Just throw open the doors of your bell tent to enjoy a beautiful view of the rolling fields, right from the comfort of your luxurious double bed and goose down duvet.

11. Toad Hall Lodges

100%

(2)

72km from Brightlingsea · 5 units · Glamping · Suffolk, East Anglia

Chic timber lodges for cosy couples near Southwold, handy for exploring East Suffolk's quiet coast and heathland

12. Nelson Park Riding Centre

93%

(7)

56km from Brightlingsea · 3 units · Glamping · Margate, England

Glamping with a view of the horses in Thanet's largest riding centre.

13. Wyldewood Retreat

100%

(9)

112km from Brightlingsea · 1 unit · Glamping · Horam, East Sussex, South East England

An exclusive-hire glamping site for six people in a Sussex woodland

Camper favorites near Brightlingsea

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Little Thakeham Farm

97%

(57)

141km from Brightlingsea · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes · West Sussex, South East England

Almost wild camping in rural Sussex, with campfires, good footpaths and a pub within 15 minutes' walk

The Field at Findon

100%

(33)

145km from Brightlingsea · 4 units · Glamping · Findon, England

Bell tent camping in the South Downs National Park

The Downs Stables Holidays

100%

(2)

144km from Brightlingsea · 2 units · Glamping · Worthing, West Sussex, South East England

Modern glamping pods on a working racing stables in the South Downs

Firs Glamping

73km from Brightlingsea · 5 units · Glamping · Southwold, Suffolk, East Anglia

Our small site of 5 spacious bell tents is the perfect spot for a romantic couples retreat, or a relaxed family holiday in this unspoilt village, just 4 miles from the coastal town of Southwold. Nestled between the stunning nature spots of Dunwich, RSPB Minsmere and the Norfolk Broads, you couldn’t be better placed to explore the peaceful Suffolk countryside. Just throw open the doors of your bell tent to enjoy a beautiful view of the rolling fields, right from the comfort of your luxurious double bed and goose down duvet.

Toad Hall Lodges

100%

(2)

72km from Brightlingsea · 5 units · Glamping · Suffolk, East Anglia

Chic timber lodges for cosy couples near Southwold, handy for exploring East Suffolk's quiet coast and heathland

Nelson Park Riding Centre

93%

(7)

56km from Brightlingsea · 3 units · Glamping · Margate, England

Glamping with a view of the horses in Thanet's largest riding centre.

Wyldewood Retreat

100%

(9)

112km from Brightlingsea · 1 unit · Glamping · Horam, East Sussex, South East England

An exclusive-hire glamping site for six people in a Sussex woodland

Stories from the community

B

Becky

September 2025

3 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

We had a fabulous night here. Lovely, quiet field with plenty of space. The toilets and showers were very clean. No light pollution at all-great for star gazing. There were fire pits to hire and wood if we needed it. Lovely dog walks from the camp and a good local pub nearby. Peter and his wife were super friendly and incredibly helpful. We will definitely be back!

C

Clare

September 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Archer’s Field

I had a beautiful peaceful night camping with my van in Archers Field. I was very fortunate to have the whole site to myself, sharing it with the owls, kingfisher, ducks, robins and blackbirds and all the other creatures. Great location and clean facilities. Will be going back for sure!

T

Tora

August 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Archer’s Field

Very peaceful campsite. Basic amenities but everything you need. Lovely warm showers. We had a lovely stay here and would stay again next time we visit Norfolk

L

Lauren

August 2025

7 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Archer’s Field

This campsite was so lovely and tranquil and the facilities were spotless. We only stayed for one night but wish we could’ve extended our stay to make the most of peace (but unfortunately work loomed).

R

Rachel

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Archer’s Field

Fantastic campsite in a great location, perfect for coast and NT visits. Lovely, friendly host. We will be back x

L

Laura

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

Peter was a great host and the campsite felt calm and quiet even at full capacity over bank holiday weekend. I would say the number of showers and toilets were appropriate for the number of campers. The firewood and eggs for sale were a nice touch and the fridge/freezer was handy for people wanting to keep bits cool. We had a great stay and will be back. Thank you!

H

Hilary

August 2025

6 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

What a great place to stay. A really nice space to get away from it all. Facilities were clean and Peter was a great host. We’ll definitely come back again

R

Raben

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Archer’s Field

Absolutely wonderful site. Not only was the pitch beautiful, by the lake and under an oak tree, but the owners went above and beyond to help us when we realised one of our tents was missing it's poles!? Even finding a tent locally for us to borrow! What could have been a disastrous trip, turned into a perfect vacation. We have the amazing hospitality of all at archer's field to thank for saving the day and providing such a great campsite. Simply can't say enough about this hidden gem of a campsite... We will definitely come back next season.

K

Kelley

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

Spent the weekend with family and friends. What a beautiful little spot! We all really enjoyed our stay and can't wait to book our next one. Thank you for our lovely camping trip!x

K

Karl

August 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Archer’s Field

A lovely stay in a quiet campsite. Lots of wildlife and listening to the owls at night was unforgettable. Amenities were spotless, and the use of a both a fridge and a freezer was the icing on the cake. Great location to visit the surrounding area of north Norfolk.

R

Rasa

August 2025

5 m car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

Really lovely small campsite, surrounded by nature. We loved the privacy as we could pick our own spot. This was very useful for us with a reactive dog who needs a bit more space. Campfire made a big difference too. You have all basics for great camping experience. The only improvement I’d mention is the lack of hot water in the dishwashing sink, which could be inconvenient if you’re staying longer and cooking often. Otherwise - highly recommended place!

M

Mary

August 2025

Tent

With pets

8 nights at Archer’s Field

This is our fourth visit, we love this campsite so much! Friendly, responsive hosts, shower and loo blocks cleaned every day, dog and child friendly, nice open site with plenty of space for everyone, quiet pretty surroundings, handy little farm shop for eggs and firewood, and always a lovely atmosphere. There’s lots to do in the area as well, and several great beaches nearby. Hard to beat!

A

Annika

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Archer’s Field

We stayed for two nights. Great location to get to the Norfolk coast. The site had very clean showers and toilets (flushable) which were cleaned regularly. The site had everything we needed. Very peaceful, plenty of space and very relaxed. We will be back

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.

A

Amy

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

Lovely friendly host! Lots of space to pitch and play games. Shower and loos all clean and high standard. Had a wonderful stay!

K

Katy

August 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

Loved our stay in Archer Field. Nicely spread out and the toilets and showers were spotless. Peter was really helpful and friendly and available when we needed him. Will definitely come back.

L

Laura

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

Very peaceful, fab loos and showers, very welcoming host, super pub within walking distance. Very dog friendly. Will def return!

H

Herve

August 2025

Tent

With kids

6 nights at Archer’s Field

Loved the campsite. Quiet. Clean. Gave us easy access to the north Norfolk coast. A great stay, would recommend it to anyone thinking of camping around there!

C

Cara

August 2025

4 m Class B

2 nights at Archer’s Field

Very tranquil and serene, and Peter was very friendly and welcoming.

A

Andy

August 2025

3 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Archer’s Field

Lovely peaceful site with basic but very well maintained facilities, and very helpful staff. Loved seeing froglets and toadlets hopping through the grass, swifts zooming around, and a tawny owl at dusk. Really handy for the coast too.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

As always, Hipcamp swerves the commercial and goes in hunt of the very best independent campsites and glamping sites so that you can find a camping holiday that's suited to you. Between Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea, at the mouth of the River Colne, Brightlingsea is both accessible and beautiful, with great access to the waterside marina and Brightlingsea Creek.