- Waterside Camping
Lake camping in Friston Forest
97% (56) • 123 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Friston Forest
The Nut Plat Retreat
1. The Nut Plat Retreat
93%
(76)
Tonbridge, England · 3 units
Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Wonderland Festival Retreat
2. Wonderland Festival Retreat
100%
(6)
Henfield, England · 3 units
Glamping by the lake with an optional sauna and hot tub
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping
3. Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping
England · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
Welcome to Furnace Brook, a tranquil 60-acre Ecosystem Restoration Community tucked away in the rolling countryside of East Sussex. Here, peace, wildlife, and connection to nature come first. Whether you’re waking up in a handcrafted lakeside cabin or camping beneath the stars, this is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover calm.
At the heart of the land lies our beautiful lake, surrounded by native trees and wildflowers. Herons, dragonflies, and kingfishers visit often, and misty mornings give way to glowing sunsets reflected on the water. Our cabins blend simple comfort with rustic charm — natural materials and wide windows that open to birdsong. For campers, we have rural private pitches or spacious and communal spaces. It’s quiet here — no loud music, no generators, just the crackle of a fire and the sounds of nature at night.
Furnace Brook is part of a working Ecosystem Restoration Community. Every stay supports rewilding and soil regeneration, helping wildlife and woodland return to the landscape. Guests are welcome to wander our trails, learn about the restoration work, or simply enjoy being surrounded by thriving nature.
We also brew our own small-batch Furnace Brook Beer, made with local ingredients — the perfect companion for a lakeside sunset or a cosy evening by the fire.
If you’re looking for stillness, beauty, and a genuine connection to the natural world, Furnace Brook offers it in abundance. Come to rest, reflect, and experience life at nature’s pace.
January Booking Special: Save 10% on all stays booked in January for any dates later this year with CODE: TSWVL3G2
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
The Deer Park Glamping,
4. The Deer Park Glamping,
Tenterden, England · 1 unit
How does Glamping with a herd of privately owned deer sound to you?
Deer Park Glamping is on our private 15-acre deer park, nestled within an "area of outstanding beauty", located in a village called Benenden, Kent
You will be camping amongst our own herd of Fallow Deer 🦌
*** Before we go any further, I need to let you know that, unfortunately, we do not allow children, groups aged under 21 and pets, due to the deer and lake ***
Although just a 90-minute drive from South East London or a 45-minute drive to the Eurotunnel terminal, it's a wonderful natural space to unwind and watch the shy herd of deer pass by your Bell Tent!
If you want to explore the area, there is plenty to do;
🛍 The thriving town of Tenterden is a 7-minute drive, with small boutiques, pubs and a supermarket.
🏖 Camber Sands our local beach is just a 25-minute drive
⚓️ The beautiful harbour town of Rye and all its beautiful antique shops and boutiques is a 25-minute drive
🏰 Leeds Castle, Bodiam Castle and Scotney Castle are all within a 20-minute drive
🍾 We are surrounded by an abundance of incredible wineries including Chapel Down, Gusbourne and Tillingham
What you will find at "Deerpark Glamping";
🦌 Fully Set Up Bell Tents
🦌 15 Acres of land
🦌 3 acres of woodland
🦌 1 Acre lake
🦌 A privately owned herd of Fallow Deer
🦌 6 Sassy Geece
🦌 2 Compost Toilets
🦌 2 Cubicle Showers
🦌 3 Fire Pits for cooking (shared between tents)
🦌 Parking is within the deer park (we don't recommend bringing your Ferrari or Porches 🤪)
🦌 Deck Chairs
As we want to keep the tranquil and calm feel to the space, therefore, we have limited the total occupancy to 10 Bell Tents (20 guests in total), if you are looking for an exclusive hire option, please let us know in advance and we can potentially increase the numbers.
Accommodation comprises 5m Bell Tents, you can choose between double or single beds, occupancy is set at 2, however, we can go to 3 on request.
There is a minimum 2-night booking.
The inside interior has a "Boho" feel to it, with sheepskin rugs, throws and Moroccan neutral pouffes, chandelier lighting and outside festoons and bunting.
All comes fully set up, equipped with Beds, Linen, Lighting, Soft Furnishing.
The lake is fresh water and is stocked with trout, if cold water lake swimming is your thing, head in or why not bring your own paddle board?
We supply 3 Firepits to be shared with 3-4 other tents, where you can cook your food or keep warm.
This is completely off grid.. and your time to get closer to nature.
Showers
Campfires
Hastingford Fishery Glamping
5. Hastingford Fishery Glamping
100%
(9)
Uckfield, England · 4 units
Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
The Secret Pondside Pitches
6. The Secret Pondside Pitches
England · 10 units
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
Pets
Campfires
97% (56) • 123 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Friston Forest
The Nut Plat Retreat
1. The Nut Plat Retreat
93%
(76)
Tonbridge, England · 3 units
Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Wonderland Festival Retreat
2. Wonderland Festival Retreat
100%
(6)
Henfield, England · 3 units
Glamping by the lake with an optional sauna and hot tub
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping
3. Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping
England · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
Welcome to Furnace Brook, a tranquil 60-acre Ecosystem Restoration Community tucked away in the rolling countryside of East Sussex. Here, peace, wildlife, and connection to nature come first. Whether you’re waking up in a handcrafted lakeside cabin or camping beneath the stars, this is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover calm.
At the heart of the land lies our beautiful lake, surrounded by native trees and wildflowers. Herons, dragonflies, and kingfishers visit often, and misty mornings give way to glowing sunsets reflected on the water. Our cabins blend simple comfort with rustic charm — natural materials and wide windows that open to birdsong. For campers, we have rural private pitches or spacious and communal spaces. It’s quiet here — no loud music, no generators, just the crackle of a fire and the sounds of nature at night.
Furnace Brook is part of a working Ecosystem Restoration Community. Every stay supports rewilding and soil regeneration, helping wildlife and woodland return to the landscape. Guests are welcome to wander our trails, learn about the restoration work, or simply enjoy being surrounded by thriving nature.
We also brew our own small-batch Furnace Brook Beer, made with local ingredients — the perfect companion for a lakeside sunset or a cosy evening by the fire.
If you’re looking for stillness, beauty, and a genuine connection to the natural world, Furnace Brook offers it in abundance. Come to rest, reflect, and experience life at nature’s pace.
January Booking Special: Save 10% on all stays booked in January for any dates later this year with CODE: TSWVL3G2
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
The Deer Park Glamping,
4. The Deer Park Glamping,
Tenterden, England · 1 unit
How does Glamping with a herd of privately owned deer sound to you?
Deer Park Glamping is on our private 15-acre deer park, nestled within an "area of outstanding beauty", located in a village called Benenden, Kent
You will be camping amongst our own herd of Fallow Deer 🦌
*** Before we go any further, I need to let you know that, unfortunately, we do not allow children, groups aged under 21 and pets, due to the deer and lake ***
Although just a 90-minute drive from South East London or a 45-minute drive to the Eurotunnel terminal, it's a wonderful natural space to unwind and watch the shy herd of deer pass by your Bell Tent!
If you want to explore the area, there is plenty to do;
🛍 The thriving town of Tenterden is a 7-minute drive, with small boutiques, pubs and a supermarket.
🏖 Camber Sands our local beach is just a 25-minute drive
⚓️ The beautiful harbour town of Rye and all its beautiful antique shops and boutiques is a 25-minute drive
🏰 Leeds Castle, Bodiam Castle and Scotney Castle are all within a 20-minute drive
🍾 We are surrounded by an abundance of incredible wineries including Chapel Down, Gusbourne and Tillingham
What you will find at "Deerpark Glamping";
🦌 Fully Set Up Bell Tents
🦌 15 Acres of land
🦌 3 acres of woodland
🦌 1 Acre lake
🦌 A privately owned herd of Fallow Deer
🦌 6 Sassy Geece
🦌 2 Compost Toilets
🦌 2 Cubicle Showers
🦌 3 Fire Pits for cooking (shared between tents)
🦌 Parking is within the deer park (we don't recommend bringing your Ferrari or Porches 🤪)
🦌 Deck Chairs
As we want to keep the tranquil and calm feel to the space, therefore, we have limited the total occupancy to 10 Bell Tents (20 guests in total), if you are looking for an exclusive hire option, please let us know in advance and we can potentially increase the numbers.
Accommodation comprises 5m Bell Tents, you can choose between double or single beds, occupancy is set at 2, however, we can go to 3 on request.
There is a minimum 2-night booking.
The inside interior has a "Boho" feel to it, with sheepskin rugs, throws and Moroccan neutral pouffes, chandelier lighting and outside festoons and bunting.
All comes fully set up, equipped with Beds, Linen, Lighting, Soft Furnishing.
The lake is fresh water and is stocked with trout, if cold water lake swimming is your thing, head in or why not bring your own paddle board?
We supply 3 Firepits to be shared with 3-4 other tents, where you can cook your food or keep warm.
This is completely off grid.. and your time to get closer to nature.
Showers
Campfires
Hastingford Fishery Glamping
5. Hastingford Fishery Glamping
100%
(9)
Uckfield, England · 4 units
Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
The Secret Pondside Pitches
6. The Secret Pondside Pitches
England · 10 units
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
Pets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Samuel
March 2026
2 nights at Hastingford Fishery Glamping
The cabin was cozy and scenic with wildlife buzzing everywhere, beautiful area and cabin, log burner never went out, will definitely be returning for another midweek getaway
See more
D
David
November 2025
3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat
Such a beautiful spot, we took Ransoms for 3 nights. Everything we needed was ready for us, nice kitchen and a lovely hot tub. The host is very friendly and helpful. Don’t miss out on The Kentish Rifleman’s Pie and a Pint on Tuesdays and walks through Plaxtol, Igtham moat, and the green fields.
See more
d
daniel
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping
A wonderful host, a stunning view, birds everywhere, my first view of a kingfisher in my 56 years of life, every comfort and a lovely lake just in front with a whole assortment of ducks. Just wonderful.
See more
M
Matt
August 2025
With pets
Excellent weekend stay. Fantastic location for stunning walks around the area. Vineyards, pubs etc all within walking distance.
See more
A
Alicja
August 2025
2 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat
The Nut Plat retreat is great. We had a lovely time at the Bomford. Perfect relaxing break. Duncan is very nice and helpful. Bed is comfortable, shower is hot, there is everything you need. The Rifleman pub is a stones throw from the nuthatch, but unfortunately it was fully booked on Thursday, so it is worth to book a table in advance . Wood fired hot tub is a nice touch. Just have to be patient with it. Follow Duncan's instructions and you will get it very hot in less than two hours. Fire pit and all the trees around are lush. Even though you have neighbours around 100 meters away, it feels very private. Would definitely go back.
See more
A
Anna
August 2025
With pets
Stunning location! The view was fantastic and there was some lovely walking routes around to local landmarks and pubs. The hut was great, plenty of storage and well equipped with everything you need.
See more
L
Lore
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping
Amazing shepherds hut with outstanding views of the surrounding area and lake. The hut itself was immaculately clean and has all you need within. Mark and Geraldine are really lovely! So helpful and kind.
We will definitely be returning!
See moreR
Ruaidhri
August 2025
3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat
We had a lovely time at the Bomford.
Perfect for anyone who wants a relaxing break.
See moreS
Silka
July 2025
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
We loved our stay at Nut Plat Retreat. Duncan was a lovely, welcoming host. We enjoyed watching the bats and listening to the owls from the hot tub in the evenings. Variety of walks nearby, and the river to dip your feet in.
See more
A
Alexandra
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping
Carp's hut is absolutely stunning , located in a beautiful and hidden area, offering you the privacy you need to disconnect from the city and connect to the nature.
We loved watching the birds , and feeding the ducks and geese . The stunning fishing lake has been a plus and we have enjoyed every moment on the balcony.
The host have offered us a welcome pack and have made us feel very welcomed. Thank you Mark and Geraldine for having us , will definitely return at some point.
See moreB
Ben
June 2025
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
Very nice off grid experience. Facilities are good but it’s more of a rustic experience than luxury. We had a lovely weekend. Nice walks to the vineyard (1 hour) who have a nice outside area to try wines and the cheeseboard is decent. The rifleman pub is a stones throw from the nuthatch and the food is really good. Wood fired hot tub is a nice touch. Just have to be patient with it. Really friendly host. Would definitely go back.
See more
L
Lucy
June 2025
With kids
Lovely location. Comfortable and host easy to contact.
See moreM
Melissa
May 2025
Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping
On arrival, we were warmly welcomed by Mark, Geraldine's brother, who gave us directions to our hut (Perch). He followed us up, and made sure we knew where everything was in the hut, he had the fridge stocked with fresh milk, eggs, fruit juice, there was tea, coffee, sugar, even ketchup! Cooking oil... Tinfoil.... Everything we needed was there! The whole hut was beautiful clean and neat, and everything was very well thought of and planned out. The views were beautiful, no sound of passing traffic, lots of bird life, and the hut felt very private. My partner and I fished into the late evening and started early 5h30am the next morning. Mark came to our hut as agreed 10am punctually to deliver warm crispy croissants and bread rolls, with an assortment of jams and honey, we felt so spoilt! We felt the safety of knowing our hosts were nearby, with such kind hearts and warm smiles, ready to assist or help us in any way, but never on top of us. We broke a Champaign flute, and they replaced it right away. We ordered beef burger patties, sausages and bacon, a bbq charcoal pack and firewood to sit around the outside fire under the stars one night. The meat was so delicious we ordered more to take away with us. The fishing was great, we caught loads of fish. We could sit anywhere around either of the two fishing lakes. The farm is huge and we were welcome to walk the grounds and possibly see some deer. The hut was lovely and warm on arrival with the heater on. Definitely will be back.
See moreA
Angie
May 2025
Weekend Trip to Wonderland Festival Retreat
Idealic, country retreat . Our dome had all the comforts of home, and we loved the hot tub. Katherine was delightful and offered to cook our pizzas when we said we we're going to try and cook them on the BBQ.
It was just what my sister in law and I needed.
See moreN
Nahum
May 2025
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
The Nut Plat Retreat was perfect! We loved every minute of our stay there. Have already recommended to everyone we know!
See moreM
Mark
April 2025
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
Very cosy stay, thoroughly enjoyed the hot tub and found it very easy to be self sufficient with everything you need in your area. Will definitely be returning.
See moreE
Esme
April 2025
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
We had such a lovely stay in the nut plat. The bedroom cabin was clean and cosy and we loved just relaxing, cooking and jumping in the hot tub as soon as the sun went down. We found the hot tub very easy to use with Duncan providing unlimited wood. The first time we lit it, it took a few hours to heat up but it retains its heat well and on the following days needed much less time to be ready. Duncan mostly left us alone but was very welcoming and even posted my speaker back to me which I left in the cabin. Would definitely recommend :)
See moreFriston 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.
