Camping in Friston Forest

Name: Friston Forest
Address: Friston Forest
Rating: 4.8315

Protected as part of southeast England’s South Downs National Park, Friston Forest sits just inland from the unbelievably beautiful white-chalk Seven Sisters cliffs and picturesque Cuckmere Haven beach in East Sussex. A handful of well-marked hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and horse riding trails meander off into the beech trees, while scenic picnic and barbecue areas as well as charming pubs can be found in the villages of Friston and East Dean. For campers, family-owned farms, thrilling clifftop sites, and the grounds of graceful country manors offer idyllic pitch-up spots, while water sports abound all along the nearby coast.

97% (2.2K) • 2,586 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Friston Forest

The Barn KT9

1. The Barn KT9

97%

(297)

Chessington, England · 16 units · Tents, Glamping

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

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Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

2. Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

90%

(40)

England · 32 units

At Oak Valley Campsite, simplicity and space are part of the charm. Tucked among ancient oaks in the gentle countryside of Pett, East Sussex, this peaceful spot is all about traditional camping. Pitches are generous, grassy, and flat – ideal for tents and campers who like room to breathe. There are hot showers, proper loos, and fresh water on tap. At night, toast marshmallows around a hired fire pit, watch the stars, and enjoy the quiet. Explore local walks, pop down to Winchelsea Beach, or lose a few hours in the pretty streets of Rye, just 15 minutes away. Need to know: - No electric hook-up - Family-friendly & dog-friendly - Fire pits and logs available - Check-in from 2 pm

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Knowler Farm Wild Camping

3. Knowler Farm Wild Camping

100%

(36)

England · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes

We are a family friendly site and have something for everyone! Offering Wild Camping and bespoke and unique Glamping stays! On site Cafe, serving hot and cold food, fresh coffee and delicious homemade cakes. open 7 days a week! Friendly Farm animals including miniture shetland ponies who you can book to spend time with and even take for a walk! Our very own Double Decker bus, hosting bookable weekend toddlers play and craft workshops. On-site Gym- fully kitted out with all the equiptment required for a full holiday workout! Classes and Personal training sessions also available! Bush-Craft, Archery and Forrest School weekend workshops including Den building, woodland crafts and more, delivered by our qualified and friendly staff. Friday night Wood-fired Pizza (available to Pre-Order) Throughout the Summer, we host a variety of events such as Family Festivals, Wellness and Well-being retreats, gig nights and workshops. Check out our socails to see what's coming up next!

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Potable water

The Secret Pondside Pitches

4. The Secret Pondside Pitches

England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

The Secret Pondsite Pitches offers 20 pitches by the water! Located just within the borders of Southdown National Park, between Burgess Hill and Hassocks on the site of working plant Nursery, but pleasantly located just behind it, in the company of nature only. The site is remote, but there is a few walking distance attractions: 1. A private gate into the Ditchling Common. 2. Village of Ditchling-a home to of craftsmen and makers, with beautiful history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. 3. Pubs, vineyards and other farms-the area is known for it's favourable conditions to grow varieties of grapes perfect for Champag.....oops, not allowed to say it.....for Sparkling Wine! 4. The Beacon-those who love a cycling challenge, The Beacon is a classic and The Secret Pondside Pitches serve as a great starting point to park up, rest up and tackle the hill. Please be quiet and respectful, respect the boundaries of surrounding businesses, watch your babies and pets closely and most importantly-enjoy the natures melody! ____________________________________________________________________________________ This is a working farm, so please arrive with patience and care. More details available via email eastwoodplantmarket@gmail.com or 07309062112

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Camping at Tomkins Farm

5. Camping at Tomkins Farm

96%

(175)

North Chailey, England · 41 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Relaxed camping beside a lake on an East Sussex farm, with alpacas, llamas, and camels

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Littleton Farm Campsite

6. Littleton Farm Campsite

95%

(31)

Upwaltham, England · 20 units

Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive. A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds. There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park. Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away. In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire. Please note, the site is dog free.

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Potable water

Lordington Park Camping

7. Lordington Park Camping

100%

(50)

Chichester · 16 units

Set on glorious parkland in the middle of the South Downs National Park, Lordington Park really is a wonderful countryside escape. A 15 minutes’ drive from Chichester, our rustic camping field has views over rolling countryside. Spectacular sunsets and sunrises can be expected on cloudless days. Escape the hustle and bustle of every day life in our peaceful rural campsite, with spacious grass pitches big enough for you to have lots of private space. Each pitch has a firepit for barbecues, and there is access to composting toilets, a shower block with warm water, and fresh drinking water. Please note there is no electricity on this simple site. Vehicles are not allowed to park on the camping field, but parking is provided a stone’s throw away. Wheelbarrows are provided to help you get your kit from car to tent. Countryside walks and cycle paths lead directly from your pitch. There are several pubs in the local area – the nearest being 10 minutes’ stroll away. We have a tea room on site, open Thursday - Sunday 10am-3pm. Near by local attractions: Goodwood Weald and downland museum West wittering beach Hayling island Portsmouth historic dockyard Chichester festival theatre Arundel castle Cowdray park Various national trust property’s And many more…

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Far and Away Camping

8. Far and Away Camping

100%

(44)

England · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

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!

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Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

9. Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

97%

(122)

Pulborough, England · 56 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Friendly camping and glamping on a Sussex farm, with animals to meet, a pond to swim in, and the South Downs nearby.

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Chalky Downs

10. Chalky Downs

96%

(609)

Brighton, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton

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Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

11. Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

100%

(21)

Fairlight, England · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Reconnect with nature, gently. Welcome to our low-impact, off-grid campsite nestled within a working permaculture fruit and herb farm. Here, a small flock of sheep graze as part of an ongoing project to restore a wildflower meadow. The land is alive with colour, birdsong and butterflies—and you’re invited to experience it at your own peaceful pace. 🌿 Space to breathe Only two pitches are available at any time (up to 8 people per pitch). Each pitch has: Private fire pit overlooking wide countryside views PLEASE NOTE the fire pits are on the top of the field near the woodland edge. Camping area (with views) on the lower slope near the shower and main compost toilet Retreat into the woodland strip at the top of the field—perfect for hammocks, hammock tents, shade in summer, quiet chats and listening to the wind through the trees. There are some hammocks already up for campers to enjoy.. 🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns Large communal group tent now included - for shade, to escape rain or just chill out in. It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding. 🌟 Special Exclusive Rental Hire the entire campsite area for your group £280 for up to 10 people up to 10 additional guests at £25 pppn Make the farm yours..... 🌄 Views worth waking up for: From the fire pits you’ll see far-reaching countryside views, and just a short walk away on Mountain Field or at The Balehouse (Hastings Country Park café) you’ll find truly breathtaking scenes over Rye Bay. Nature is the heartbeat here—bluebells in May, orchard blossoms, butterflies drifting through the herbs, and birdsong that wraps around the woodland. At night, the skies open up to the stars; in the morning, you’ll wake to dew-kissed grass and the first rays of sun. 🧘‍♀️ A slower kind of camping Bring a yoga mat, greet the day on the deck, cook outdoors, walk the cliffs, or unwind under the trees. Gather friends and family for a fire, BBQ, or a giant picnic—this field was made for simple, shared moments. 📌 Practical Notes Working farm: the farmer and WWOOFers are on site in areas separate from camping facilities. Exclusive use refers to the campsite areas, not the entire farm. Please bring your own drinking water.

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Otter Channel Campsite

12. Otter Channel Campsite

95%

(161)

East Sussex, England · 15 units

Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother

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Lagnersh camping

13. Lagnersh camping

78%

(105)

Bognor Regis, England · 75 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Dog-friendly camping near Chichester and the West Sussex coast

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Housedean Farm Campsite

14. Housedean Farm Campsite

98%

(108)

Lewes, England · 4 units

Epic views of the South Downs, and a walker’s paradise, hidden sweetly on the South Downs Way

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The Sunnyfield Campsite

15. The Sunnyfield Campsite

95%

(101)

Canterbury, England · 26 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.

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Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

16. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%

(15)

Emsworth · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

We are a small, friendly site on a working farm in the beautiful South Downs National Park. We have shepherds huts, bell tents and a land pod in an old sheep paddock, all with private fire pits. We’re surrounded by footpaths and bridleways that can be explored all day, and 10 minutes drive from the sea. We also have a small grass-pitch campsite that opens in the summer for tents and camper vans.

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Beech Estate Campsite

17. Beech Estate Campsite

97%

(193)

Battle, England · 52 units · Tents, Glamping

Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway

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Potable water

Hale Farm

18. Hale Farm

100%

(155)

Chiddingly, England · 38 units · Tents, Glamping

A family-run, working farm in East Sussex offering spacious, traditional camping with no set pitches

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Potable water

Ditchling Boutique Camping

19. Ditchling Boutique Camping

88%

(24)

Ditchling, England · 100 units

Hunker down in a historic village, surrounded by vineyards, hilly countryside and some rather spectacular views. With Ditchling Camping as your base, you’ll be on track for rural bike rides or visiting Brighton and its busy coast 25 minutes’ drive away. That’s because this dog-friendly site is in Ditchling – a village in the splendid South Downs National Park and a rather excellent location for all sorts of days out. Good news if the whole family is tagging along: there’s plenty to play with around the site, including an adventure trail through the woodlands, a swing tree and places for kids to fashion their own little dens. The site is only a five-minute drive (or a 30-minute walk) from the traditional Jack and Jill windmills and the neighbouring family-run pub, which serves both grub and good ales. A vineyard is 15 minutes’ walk away from the site if you'd like to include a wine-tasting tour on your break. Otherwise, simply pedal along country lanes on the surrounding cycling routes (it’s easy enough to hire a bike locally). On your route, you might want to stop by in characterful Ditchling, home to local craftspeople and winemakers. There’s a nice selection of independent shops here, plus cosy cafés and pubs that will serve you a good spread of Sussex food, all within a 5-minute walk. Back on site, end the day with a cosy evening beside the fire-pits. The site facilities are nicely straightforward otherwise and include warm showers and a separate dishwashing area and of course our newly installed Composting Toilets.

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Beech Farm Camping

20. Beech Farm Camping

100%

(2)

England · 99 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A rural getaway doesn’t have to involve a long drive or lots of winding lanes to negotiate – and an excellent example of this is Beech Farm, in the West Sussex countryside about five minutes’ drive from Billingshurst. This site is about a mile and a half from the nearest A road, half an hour’s drive from the A3 and M23, and about 45 minutes from Junction 9 of the M25. All of that adds up to a quick-to-reach destination for residents of London and most of the South East, as well as easy access for those coming from further afield. This is a fairly simple site with just essential facilities (toilet block, rubbish area and chemical disposal point), but it’s all well maintained. It’s a laidback place where families, dogs and groups are all welcome, but please note that campfires and barbecues are not allowed for safety reasons. Bed down here and you’ll be in an excellent spot for all sorts of days out – the site is just outside the South Downs National Park for scenic walks and bike rides, and within easy reach of Chichester (40 minutes), the Goodwood Estate (35 minutes) and the beaches of the south coast (half an hour). Billingshurst has a good selection of shops and places to eat, plus a railway station for days out by train. - Simple but well-kept site five minutes’ drive from Billingshurst - Just outside South Downs National Park; farm park two minutes' drive - Rural location with easy access from main roads and motorways

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Aurimas

1 day ago

Tent

3 nights at Beech Estate Campsite

We loved the campsite and the surrounding forest had a really lovely walk on the trails and had the best sleep I had in a while. Loved it

Mark

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Far and Away Camping

Great campsite. Hosts Jane and Mark were brilliant. Good facilities. Easy walk to Headcorn. We will be back for sure.

Sunrises don't get much better than those at Far and Away Camping

Samuel

2 weeks ago

4 m rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Lovely spot , hosts were very friendly and had great information for local walks etc

Erik

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Littleton Farm Campsite

Camping here is a very nice experience. You are on a large field, tents far apart. The views are beautiful. There are several toilets and sinks to get water and wash. These are all clean. We also loved the shower, which is a family shower room with two showers and lots of space. This is real camping!

Alex

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

Lovely quiet campsite for a midweek stay, amenities close and well maintained, lovely host- thank you very much!

Marieke

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at The Barn KT9

We had a great stay at the barn!!! It is really an adventure in the middle of nowhere. The coffee is good and you are just 20 minutes walk from the station. Charlie helped us with a taxi when we wanted to be early in the queue of Wimbledon! We had nice contact with him. Three nights we were alone on the camping so that was fantastic!!! Back to basic with a shower nearly in the open air and a view on the fields👍 we loved it❤️

Zelah

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Lordington Park Camping

Josie is extremely attentive and responds quickly to any questions, the site is so chill we keep extending the stay !

Steve

2 weeks ago

5 m campervan

Weekend Trip to The Sunnyfield Campsite

Gorgeous site in a beautiful location. Lots of space, massive pitches for campervans. Firepits allowed. Love the upcycled sustainable facilities. Will be back. Gratitude

Ene

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Littleton Farm Campsite

What a great spot - took my son and his friends camping for a night, they played ball games, we had water guns - they got soaked and great way to cool down, had bbq and bonfire. Toilets and sinks near by as well, perfect! We had a big breakfast at the cafe in the morning, good to have availability of milk, water, bread or ice. Great time for the boys in the nature while leaving all the tech at home.

Zelah

2 weeks ago

Tent

5 nights at Lordington Park Camping

So calm peaceful and quiet will absolutely be booking again soon

Len

2 weeks ago

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Tomkins Farm

A wonderful weekend family gathering in real countryside with a fabulous vibe of peace and goodwill. Plenty of space, firepits, ice cream, pizza, very special beers, enjoyable showers, and.... we had sunshine! The campsite team are switched on, welcoming and helpful. We will be back. Thank you all.

Angela

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

I camped for two nights in my own tent with my four year old and a dog, and we absolutely loved it. We only live up the road 😂 but this gave us the “middle of nowhere” camping experience within a 20 minute drive. The event on Friday night was brilliant, the cafe is wonderful and I was looking longingly at the exercise classes…next time! My daughter cried when we had to leave, we will definitely be back (and the husband can come too next time, there’s a Reformer with my name on it!!!) thank you for a lovely stay and see you again soon.

Kerry

3 weeks ago

5 m campervan

Weekend Trip to Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

Laid back feel with facilities fashioned using mostly reclaimed materials - felt very eco sensitive (if that’s a phrase) and a pleasant antidote to some bigger “holiday park” style sites. On my own in the field - plus the rabbits, birds and foxes - in my camper. Lovely sunset and then a dramatic thunder storm at around 1am! A little unnerving but a cool experience. Anna suggested a swim at Pett Level and I took her advice and had a lovely dip this morning before heading back to the Cotswolds. ☺️

Amy

3 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at The Barn KT9

We had a brilliant stay at The Barn KT9. It’s even better than the photos. The tents were huge with comfy beds and clean sheets. The room diffuser was a lovely touch. Beautiful views and a relaxing space. The kids really enjoyed finding the different activities you had laid out in the field. The cafe was even better than hoped! Flushable toilets and a gorgeous shower - we will definitely be back! Thank you so much Charlie and family for having us and making us feel so welcome

Sally

3 weeks ago

5 m car

With pets

1 night at Far and Away Camping

Lovely and peaceful. Facilities were clean and everything was well signed. It was nice for Jayne to come and say hello and responded quickly on the app to questions.

Paul

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Far and Away Camping

Beautiful field. Very basic (just how I like it). Would definitely go back. Jayne was very welcoming.

Stephanie

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Littleton Farm Campsite

Loved this camp: as a solo female traveller on foot, it was great and felt very safe. Tania who runs the camp is lovely and super friendly! The camp itself is huge, and there is a lot of space! Perfect introvert’s paradise. Access: while it is remote, the 99 bus is very convenient: just check the timetable. Buses run to Chichester and to Petworth. So easy to go and get stuff like groceries. The Cadence Cafe next door is fabulous: coffee is delicious, food is lovely, and the staff super friendly! Special thanks to Sarah from the cafe who is absolutely wonderful and helpful! Lots of hikes nearby- and the camp is quiet! Woods near by to get woods. Fire allowed. I had the most wonderful 3 nights! Thank you all!

Sam

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lordington Park Camping

Another great couple of nights at Lordington. Great updates and Comms from Josie, quiet as always and managed to nab a shady spot for the mornings. Kids always loving the shower 'truck' and the compost loos. Dont change anything!

Dani

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Lovely little campsite, the hosts are so warm and welcoming. Arrival instructions were really clear. You can pitch your tent anywhere in the field. We had plenty of space and the amenities were clean. A warm shower, and they were installing another whilst we were there. Great location too.

Louise

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

We had a wonderful and relaxing 2 night stay here for fathers day. Its so peaceful yet so close to London and lots of child friendly places. The onsite cafe had fabulous views, coffees and pastries, and its a short walk across the field and Ashtead Common to the Star pub which has a little play area in the garden.

Friston Forest camping guide

Where to go

Seven Sisters Country Park

One of coastal England’s most superbly scenic stretches, this 280-hectare park ripples across the Cuckmere River valley, chalk grasslands, and the undulating, salt-white Seven Sisters cliffs, west of Eastbourne. A challenging branch of the South Downs Way tracks up and down along the clifftops, with dazzling views across the channel.

South Downs National Park

Beyond the Seven Sisters area, the South Downs roll northwest all the way to Winchester, taking in chalk-dusted hills, gorgeously green landscapes, lively market towns, and, of course, superb country pubs. Adventurous souls can go hiking, cycling, horse riding, and even paragliding, while campsites, glamping pods, and caravan spots pop up everywhere from riverside farms to cliffview coastal parks.

High Weald AONB

England’s fourth-largest AONB packs in 580 square miles of Sussex, Kent, and Surrey countryside sprinkled with ancient castles, gardens, and mansions. Go kayaking across lakes, hike along the escarpment, explore the sprawling heaths, and try paddleboarding or sailing with a wealth of delightful glamping, camping, and caravanning sites to pick from along the way.

Kent Downs

Inland from Kent’s chalk-dusted coastline (where dynamic towns such as Folkestone, Margate, Deal, and Whitstable await), the Kent Downs AONB delivers almost 350 square miles of centuries-old beech woodlands, scenic farmscapes, and windswept scarps. It’s a wonderfully refreshing natural space for hiking, horse riding, and cycling with view-splayed trails including the long-distance North Downs Way. This also makes it a popular on-the-doorstep escape from London, so you’ll want to book that secluded pop-up farm campsite well ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What outdoor activities can I do in Friston Forest?

In Friston Forest, you can go hiking, cycling, horse riding, and even paragliding. The forest offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventurous souls to enjoy. You can also explore different options for camping near Friston Forest on Hipcamp.

What are some popular attractions near Friston Forest?

Near Friston Forest, you can visit the unbelievably beautiful white-chalk Seven Sisters cliffs and picturesque Cuckmere Haven beach in East Sussex. The area also offers charming pubs and scenic picnic and barbecue areas. You can also explore different options for camping near Friston Forest on Hipcamp.

Where can I find camping options near Friston Forest?

Friston Forest offers idyllic pitch-up spots at family-owned farms, thrilling clifftop sites, and the grounds of graceful country manors. There are also campsites, glamping pods, and caravan spots available in the area. You can also explore different options for camping near Friston Forest on Hipcamp.

What are some popular outdoor activities in the South Downs National Park?

The South Downs National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking across lakes, hiking along the escarpment, exploring the sprawling heaths, and trying paddleboarding or sailing. There are also delightful glamping, camping, and caravanning sites to pick from along the way. You can also explore different options for camping near Friston Forest on Hipcamp.