Dog-friendly caravan parks near Ipswich, Suffolk

Old town charm meets modern culture in this ancient city, but after a day’s urban exploration it’s well worth travelling beyond Ipswich’s bustling centre to experience quintessential British camping. Whether you want to pitch up on a farm in the borough’s suburbs or make your base further afield, you have plenty of options not far from Suffolk’s county town, with highlights including the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, Broads National Park, and Breckland Special Protected Area.

86% (451)

Top-rated campgrounds

Old town charm meets modern culture in this ancient city, but after a day’s urban exploration it’s well worth travelling beyond Ipswich’s bustling centre to experience quintessential British camping. Whether you want to pitch up on a farm in the borough’s suburbs or make your base further afield, you have plenty of options not far from Suffolk’s county town, with highlights including the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, Broads National Park, and Breckland Special Protected Area.

86% (451)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cuckoo Farm Campsite

99%

(202)

133km from Ipswich · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Rutland, East Midlands

Family camping with campfires on an organic farm, set alongside the beautiful River Chater

2. Archer’s Field

97%

(223)

88km from Ipswich · 22 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

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

3. Coxhill Camping

100%

(51)

97km from Ipswich · 45 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Dover, England

Relaxed camping in a field close to Dover and Canterbury

4. The Red Lion

100%

(5)

144km from Ipswich · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Spilsby, England

Simple site in the grounds of a 19th-century coaching inn Lincolnshire Wolds walks and Skegness within half an hour's drive Pub with food; a 10-minute walk from the Aviation Heritage Centre Hikes, wildlife and generous helpings of history are all dished up at The Red Lion, a simple site in the grounds of an old Lincolnshire inn. At a crossroads in the village of East Kirkby, The Red Lion has been refreshing travellers since 1841; more recently, it was a favoured watering hole for the men and women of Bomber Command in World War II, and the pub’s décor pays tribute to them. The staff are steeped in the history of the old coaching inn and the nearby airfield, and can point you towards the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, 10 minutes’ walk down the road and on the site of the former Royal Air Force base. The Red Lion makes a splendid base for aviation and wartime history buffs, with the heritage centre nearby and the displays and memorials of the International Bomber Command Centre a 45-minute drive away. As it’s on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds and around half an hour's drive from the coast, it’s also well placed for walks, stately home visits and wildlife watching. Most importantly, it’s at the back of a friendly pub (which has varied winter and summer opening days and hours, but is always closed on Mondays). It serves hot food alongside local beers and other refreshing tipples. Canine companions are welcome in the bar (it’d be nice if they bought a drink…) and on the site. Electric vehicle charging is onsite in the public house car park this is chargeable through an app and full instructions are given for once you have booked and paid for your charging slot,

5. Star Field Camping

97%

(62)

117km from Ipswich · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Kent, South East England

Off-grid camping and glamping in the High Weald of Kent with campfires, acres of space and a farm shop on site

Stories from the community

J

Jayne

September 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Star Field Camping

We had a wonderful time late in the season it was sunny, quiet and very peaceful, lovely night sky. Facilities excellent everything has been thought of, showers particularly good! The woods are spectacular! Farm shop a must - great choice of lovely produce. Everyone super friendly, would highly recommend.

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!

K

Kenny

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Coxhill Camping

The field is big with lots of space, each pitch has an allocated area. The toilets, showers and other facilities look new and are very clean. Seems very well run and the guy who runs it was very friendly and helpful when I arrived. Close to the small village of Shepardswell which has a coop and a pub. They have a no music policy, so you can expect tranquility.

Grass Pitch with access to Electric Hook Up

S

Sandra

August 2025

5 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cuckoo Farm Campsite

Great one night stop over with my grandson. Great showers and we were there on a Sunday morning so went on the farm tour which was brilliant

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!

This is how open the non-electric pitches area. Plenty of space, and still only a reletively short walk to the bathrooms at the entrance of the site.

Hazel

August 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to The Red Lion

My Husband and I really enjoyed our 3 night stay in our campervan the sight is easy to assess and the plots are quite spacious we ate a Sunday lunch in the restaurant which I highly recommend we will definitely be visiting the Red Lion again in the near future.

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

A

Aleksandra

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Coxhill Camping

Love the Coxhill camping! Great location, spacious pitch and immaculate facilities. We were here 2 years ago and were not disappointed this time - everything is in perfect shape! Will likely to come back next summer.

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

M

Martin

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Red Lion

Nice campsite in peaceful rural surroundings with good facilities and a pub next door. Be aware that if you camp on a Sunday the pub closes early in the evening and doesn't serve food after lunch.

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!

Under £50

North Norfolk Camping & Glamping

89%

(14)

93km from Ipswich · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Sheringham, England

🌲 North Norfolk Camping & Glamping Holt Hollow - Lakeside Forest Retreat North Norfolk Camping & Glamping, known as Holt Hollow, provides a rare, tranquil, and back-to-nature escape in the heart of the Norfolk countryside. Nestled in a wooded area on the outskirts of the AONB, the site's most distinctive feature is its beautiful natural lake and surrounding peaceful woodlands, ideal for walks and wildlife spotting. 🔥 Back-to-Basics & Off-Grid Ethos The site strongly emphasizes its back-to-basics philosophy: Off-Grid Living: Holt Hollow operates off-grid with limited to no phone coverage, promoting full disconnection from technology. Glamping units (Shepherd's Huts/Bell Tents) utilize gas-powered showers and solar lighting, with log burners for heat. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed. Glamping units include private fire pits/braziers for evening gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies, which are excellent for stargazing. Core Facilities: Essential amenities are kept clean and functional, including shared shower/toilet blocks and fresh drinking water stations. 🐾 Dog-Friendly Woodland & Accommodation The campsite is proudly dog-friendly, welcoming companions on all pitches (tents, campervans, caravans) and in most glamping units. The open meadows and surrounding woodlands provide ample space for walks, and the lake allows for safe paddling. Some pitches even allow dogs to be off-lead. 🗺️ Local Area: Holt Village and the Coast The site’s rural location is conveniently close to key North Norfolk highlights: Holt Village: The charming Georgian market town of Holt is just a short 5-minute drive away (or a longer walk). It is perfect for exploring independent shops, cafes, and art galleries, and for accessing local gems like Holt Country Park. The Coast: The stunning North Norfolk Coast (part of the AONB) is only a short drive (approx. 20 minutes) away, providing access to: Blakeney Point (famous for seal watching boat trips). Wells-next-the-Sea and Holkham Bay (vast sandy beaches). Coastal walks along the Norfolk Coast Path. North Norfolk Camping & Glamping offers an authentic outdoor adventure, blending rustic living with the comfort of having the best of the Norfolk coast and countryside within easy reach.

Creekside Family Camping

96%

(87)

145km from Ipswich · 58 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Lincolnshire, East Midlands

Family-friendly, dog-friendly camping with campfires on a beachside farm in Lincolnshire

Barn Owl Camping

97%

(18)

25km from Ipswich · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Suffolk, England

Dog-friendly camping and shepherd’s huts in rural Suffolk

Penn Meadow Farm

91%

(233)

135km from Ipswich · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Beaconsfield, England

Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England) Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies. We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening. The site includes; Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked. Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up Running drinking water Shared open kitchen Fires allowed BBQ's allowed To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules: Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone. Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them. Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space. Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space. Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm. Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached. Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment. Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol. We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.

Shottisham Campsite & Smallholding

15km from Ipswich · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome · Woodbridge, England

Situated just a brief ten-minute drive away from the stunning coastline and merely five minutes from Sutton Hoo, this welcoming site is perfectly positioned for exploring all that Suffolk has to offer. Embracing a commitment to sustainable, low-impact living, the campsite aims to preserve its natural surroundings. Visitors have the option to settle into one of the site's 50 generously-sized pitches, 30 of which are equipped with electric hook-up. Spread across five small fields adorned with native trees and bushes, these pitches cater to tents, campervans, motorhomes, caravans, and RVs. For those in search of a touch of luxury, a 6m bell tent awaits, providing an ideal glamping experience. Housing up to five guests, the bell tent boasts a king-sized bed, double futon sofa-bed, single futon chair bed, complete bedding, electric amenities, a small fridge, and a kettle. Outside, a spacious decking area beckons with a shaded table and chairs, accompanied by a fire pit, gas BBQ, and a hot plate, setting the scene for delightful al fresco dining (complete with cooking utensils and crockery). Nestled within a smallholding, the campsite is home to rare breed pigs, alpacas, goats, and chickens, and guests are invited to join in the evening feeding sessions. Depending on the season, visitors may even have the chance to meet baby alpacas, goats, chicks, piglets, and more. Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits, available for hire on-site, and firewood can be purchased (though guests are welcome to bring their own). Dogs are welcome on secure leads, and the campsite offers direct access to walking trails meandering through acres of picturesque countryside.

Available this weekend

Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%

(177)

15km from Ipswich · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Woodbridge, England

We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE

North Norfolk Camping & Glamping

89%

(14)

93km from Ipswich · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Sheringham, England

🌲 North Norfolk Camping & Glamping Holt Hollow - Lakeside Forest Retreat North Norfolk Camping & Glamping, known as Holt Hollow, provides a rare, tranquil, and back-to-nature escape in the heart of the Norfolk countryside. Nestled in a wooded area on the outskirts of the AONB, the site's most distinctive feature is its beautiful natural lake and surrounding peaceful woodlands, ideal for walks and wildlife spotting. 🔥 Back-to-Basics & Off-Grid Ethos The site strongly emphasizes its back-to-basics philosophy: Off-Grid Living: Holt Hollow operates off-grid with limited to no phone coverage, promoting full disconnection from technology. Glamping units (Shepherd's Huts/Bell Tents) utilize gas-powered showers and solar lighting, with log burners for heat. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed. Glamping units include private fire pits/braziers for evening gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies, which are excellent for stargazing. Core Facilities: Essential amenities are kept clean and functional, including shared shower/toilet blocks and fresh drinking water stations. 🐾 Dog-Friendly Woodland & Accommodation The campsite is proudly dog-friendly, welcoming companions on all pitches (tents, campervans, caravans) and in most glamping units. The open meadows and surrounding woodlands provide ample space for walks, and the lake allows for safe paddling. Some pitches even allow dogs to be off-lead. 🗺️ Local Area: Holt Village and the Coast The site’s rural location is conveniently close to key North Norfolk highlights: Holt Village: The charming Georgian market town of Holt is just a short 5-minute drive away (or a longer walk). It is perfect for exploring independent shops, cafes, and art galleries, and for accessing local gems like Holt Country Park. The Coast: The stunning North Norfolk Coast (part of the AONB) is only a short drive (approx. 20 minutes) away, providing access to: Blakeney Point (famous for seal watching boat trips). Wells-next-the-Sea and Holkham Bay (vast sandy beaches). Coastal walks along the Norfolk Coast Path. North Norfolk Camping & Glamping offers an authentic outdoor adventure, blending rustic living with the comfort of having the best of the Norfolk coast and countryside within easy reach.

Snettisham Meadows

96%

(24)

101km from Ipswich · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Snettisham, England

Set on a traditional family-run farm in rural Norfolk, Snettisham Meadows is on the outskirts of the pretty village of Snettisham and short drive away from North Norfolk's beautiful white sandy beaches. Animal-mad campers, form an orderly queue please, as this 329-acre farm has several attractions up its sleeve for you, including meet-and-greets with pigs and ponies, lamb feeding in spring and deer safaris. There’s also a dog paddock for rent so four-legged companions can have a frisk around, and an area on the camping field is reserved for guests with dogs. Campfires and barbecues are permitted and you can borrow firepits from the site owners. Logs are also available to buy. The site is only 10 minutes’ walk from a village pub if you fancy a change of scenery. After a fun-filled day exploring this lovely part of Norfolk, come back to your pitch and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and some serious stargazing. Facilities include washing-up sinks, a small shop at reception for essential supplies and tourist information, USB phone charging and a freezer for ice packs.

King's Lynn Caravan and Camping Park

90%

(43)

89km from Ipswich · 26 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

A well located Norfolk campsite with great access to the coast, fens and traditional market towns

Rosehip Woods Campsite

76km from Ipswich · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England

Rosehip Wood Campsite is a nature rich, off-grid wild campsite set in a peaceful woodland. Camp in secluded clearings surrounded by trees and bushes and be sheltered from the wind or hot sun when necessary. You can spend your evenings staring into a crackling campfire as fire pits are provided and firewood can be purchased on site. This site is completely enclosed by fences so kids can roam free-range-style, make dens using branches and explore the 'secret cedar hideaway'. There is a field with a football goal for recreational activities and adjoining footpaths for road free walks. It is tucked away on the outskirts of the pretty Norfolk village of West Dereham. This beautiful rewilding project offers the unspoilt simplicity and tranquillity of wild camping within the grassy clearings of a quiet mixed woodland and balanced with just enough facilities to make camping fun and comfortable including fresh water and compost toilets. All Rosehip Wood’s pitches are family friendly and allow BBQs and campfires. Your hosts invite you to wander along mown paths, through grassy clearings and wildflowers. The woodland has been planted with lots of nuts and fruits for both wildlife and humans to enjoy. As the sun sets, unwind, and enjoy starlit skies unspoilt by light pollution against the distant calls and barks of local wildlife. The site has no lighting so don’t forget your torch if you plan on an evening amble. Downham Market is around 4 ½ miles away offering supermarkets, a market, food and drink in the town’s historic pubs and a range of restaurants. It also has a train station from which your hosts will be happy to pick you up if you are coming camping without a car. If you need an extra tent this can be rented at an extra cost. Walkers and cyclists will find maps and information available on site pointing you in the direction of local routes over farmland, lanes, long

Star Hosts in Ipswich

Four Winds Camping, Canoeing & SUP

97%

(292)

93km from Ipswich · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, East Anglia

A small, friendly riverside campsite in Cambridgeshire – with campfires allowed

Palace Farm Campsite

99%

(58)

90km from Ipswich · 28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Kent, South East England

Unpretentious and peaceful camping in an underrated spot

Far and Away Camping

100%

(18)

103km from Ipswich · 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!

Laleham Camping Club

100%

(10)

135km from Ipswich · 124 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England

Our 100 pitch campsite is located in the protected Green Belt area to the west of London. With the River Thames on one side and Laleham Park on all others, the beautiful surroundings are hard to beat given the proximity to the capital. The campsite is run voluntarily by its members, with day-to-day matters being handled by an elected committee and wardens.

Plum Camping at White House Farm

96%

(161)

69km from Ipswich · 35 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Norfolk, East Anglia

Family camping with campfires on a fruit orchard near Norwich, with a farm shop, café and butchers

Dog-friendly getaways

Star Field Camping

97%

(62)

117km from Ipswich · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Kent, South East England

Off-grid camping and glamping in the High Weald of Kent with campfires, acres of space and a farm shop on site

Coxhill Camping

100%

(51)

97km from Ipswich · 45 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Dover, England

Relaxed camping in a field close to Dover and Canterbury

Cuckoo Farm Campsite

99%

(202)

133km from Ipswich · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Rutland, East Midlands

Family camping with campfires on an organic farm, set alongside the beautiful River Chater

The Red Lion

100%

(5)

144km from Ipswich · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Spilsby, England

Simple site in the grounds of a 19th-century coaching inn Lincolnshire Wolds walks and Skegness within half an hour's drive Pub with food; a 10-minute walk from the Aviation Heritage Centre Hikes, wildlife and generous helpings of history are all dished up at The Red Lion, a simple site in the grounds of an old Lincolnshire inn. At a crossroads in the village of East Kirkby, The Red Lion has been refreshing travellers since 1841; more recently, it was a favoured watering hole for the men and women of Bomber Command in World War II, and the pub’s décor pays tribute to them. The staff are steeped in the history of the old coaching inn and the nearby airfield, and can point you towards the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, 10 minutes’ walk down the road and on the site of the former Royal Air Force base. The Red Lion makes a splendid base for aviation and wartime history buffs, with the heritage centre nearby and the displays and memorials of the International Bomber Command Centre a 45-minute drive away. As it’s on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds and around half an hour's drive from the coast, it’s also well placed for walks, stately home visits and wildlife watching. Most importantly, it’s at the back of a friendly pub (which has varied winter and summer opening days and hours, but is always closed on Mondays). It serves hot food alongside local beers and other refreshing tipples. Canine companions are welcome in the bar (it’d be nice if they bought a drink…) and on the site. Electric vehicle charging is onsite in the public house car park this is chargeable through an app and full instructions are given for once you have booked and paid for your charging slot,

Archer’s Field

97%

(223)

88km from Ipswich · 22 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Dog-friendly caravan parks near Ipswich guide

Where to go

Ipswich Countryside

What Ipswich’s urban landscape lacks in camping opportunities, its scenic surrounds more than make up for. Satellite towns such as Woodbridge, Stowmarket, and Saxmundham offer all manner of camping facilities, including caravan parks, riverside pitches, and luxury glamping, as well as direct train access to the city centre.

Suffolk Coast

Encompassing 50 miles (80 km) of rugged coastline, this Area of Outstanding Beauty is around a half-hour drive or twenty-minute train ride from Ipswich. Holiday parks punctuate the seaside villages, windswept beaches, and wildlife reserves that line the coast, and opportunities for outdoor adventures abound, including surfing, hiking, and biking.

The Brecks

About an hour’s drive north of Ipswich, this expansive wilderness is best known for its coniferous wood, sandy heath, and dry climate—making it a popular spot for wildlife and its watchers, as well as hikers and mountain bikers. The gateway towns of Brandon or Thetford can be reached by train in around 90 minutes.

The Broads

Made up of around 120 miles (200 km) of waterways, this protected network is a great location for campers who like to keep on the move. Simply rent a boat in Norwich, Lowestoft, or Great Yarmouth chuck in your gear, and set off on your adventure, taking advantage of riverside campsites and pub gardens along the way.

When to go

Spring and summer are particularly busy times of year across Suffolk, so if you’re keen to beat the crowds consider an autumn or winter visit, when you’ll be rewarded with atmospheric skies, bird migrations, and cosy pub lunches.

Know before you go

Public transport is relatively easy to navigate, but if you’re on a time limit it’s worth bringing or renting a vehicle.
Wild swimming is a popular activity in the region, so if you’re up for a dip make sure to prepare and take all precautions.
Holiday parks can book up quickly, so make your plans well in advance.
Gear, including bikes and canoes, can often be rented at sites.