Bell tents in Hainault Forest

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Once part of the Forest of Essex, this age-old 280-acre expanse sprawling northeast from London has been protected since back in the 12th century. Dive into its horse-riding, cycling and walking routes, keeping an eye out for some of the 130 bird species among the trickling streams, whispering oak trees and wide-open heathland. A ‘monster trail’ keeps kids busy, and the whole area is dog-friendly. Autumn is a delightful season to explore Hainault Forest, with foliage slipping into rust-red clothes, while spring is perfect for vibrant blooms. You’ll want to book nearby campsites well ahead, especially in July and August when things get busy.

94% (811) 301 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hainault Forest

1. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
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!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night

5. Secluded Woodland Camp

95%
(10)
27 units · Tents, Glamping · Ware, England
Glamp or pitch up here in our secluded and peaceful mini off-grid site combining both field and forest. We have a shared under cover space and also an outdoor fire-pit to gather more than 20 people comfortably. There is a simple compost loo for your use with hand-washing and dish washing area outside. And the rest is all Mother nature! There is no running water or drinking water. You will need to bring your own. No electricity points or WIFI are in the campsite and no masts nearby so enjoy the EMF cleanse. Whether you chose to stay in the ancient woodland or the herbal pasture, you will feel the benefits of reconnecting with yourself in nature, breathing the clean air and hearing the birds singing. The parking is 800m away and there is minimal tractor use so you can imagine yourself roaming the fields and forest of England in days gone by. Fitness required. It's a long walk from the car park to the campsite. Trolleys provided.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
£12
 / night

6. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
43 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£68
 / night

8. Bellatent

100%
(3)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night

16. Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

100%
(3)
15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
We look forward to welcoming you to Setts Wood Farm and will provide you with all you need for a relaxing and rewarding visit to Tenterden and The Weald. We offer a selection of bell tents or you can bring your own tent. The camping is set across 2 fields and extends to 12 acres. We have a maximum of 30 tents so it is never crowded. Come and meet the alpacas, sheep, pigs, goats and horses! We also have a small fishing lake which guests are welcome to use for a small donation. We restocked last year and there are carp and several species of smaller silver fish. It is ideal for beginners and children. Any children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Setts Wood Farm is perfectly positioned to explore Tenterden and the surrounding villages, and is less than a 20 minute drive to the historic town of Rye, with the beaches of Camber, Dymchurch and Littlestone just a few minutes further.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£28
 / night

18. Earth Camp

90%
(34)
33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England
We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night

20. Caracol Camping

100%
(5)
8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England
Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£113
 / night

Once part of the Forest of Essex, this age-old 280-acre expanse sprawling northeast from London has been protected since back in the 12th century. Dive into its horse-riding, cycling and walking routes, keeping an eye out for some of the 130 bird species among the trickling streams, whispering oak trees and wide-open heathland. A ‘monster trail’ keeps kids busy, and the whole area is dog-friendly. Autumn is a delightful season to explore Hainault Forest, with foliage slipping into rust-red clothes, while spring is perfect for vibrant blooms. You’ll want to book nearby campsites well ahead, especially in July and August when things get busy.

94% (811) 301 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hainault Forest

1. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
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!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night

5. Secluded Woodland Camp

95%
(10)
27 units · Tents, Glamping · Ware, England
Glamp or pitch up here in our secluded and peaceful mini off-grid site combining both field and forest. We have a shared under cover space and also an outdoor fire-pit to gather more than 20 people comfortably. There is a simple compost loo for your use with hand-washing and dish washing area outside. And the rest is all Mother nature! There is no running water or drinking water. You will need to bring your own. No electricity points or WIFI are in the campsite and no masts nearby so enjoy the EMF cleanse. Whether you chose to stay in the ancient woodland or the herbal pasture, you will feel the benefits of reconnecting with yourself in nature, breathing the clean air and hearing the birds singing. The parking is 800m away and there is minimal tractor use so you can imagine yourself roaming the fields and forest of England in days gone by. Fitness required. It's a long walk from the car park to the campsite. Trolleys provided.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
£12
 / night

6. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
43 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£68
 / night

8. Bellatent

100%
(3)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night

16. Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

100%
(3)
15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
We look forward to welcoming you to Setts Wood Farm and will provide you with all you need for a relaxing and rewarding visit to Tenterden and The Weald. We offer a selection of bell tents or you can bring your own tent. The camping is set across 2 fields and extends to 12 acres. We have a maximum of 30 tents so it is never crowded. Come and meet the alpacas, sheep, pigs, goats and horses! We also have a small fishing lake which guests are welcome to use for a small donation. We restocked last year and there are carp and several species of smaller silver fish. It is ideal for beginners and children. Any children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Setts Wood Farm is perfectly positioned to explore Tenterden and the surrounding villages, and is less than a 20 minute drive to the historic town of Rye, with the beaches of Camber, Dymchurch and Littlestone just a few minutes further.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£28
 / night

18. Earth Camp

90%
(34)
33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England
We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night

20. Caracol Camping

100%
(5)
8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England
Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£113
 / night

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Bell tents in Hainault Forest guide

Where to go

Lee Valley Country Park

Beyond Hainault Forest itself, campers can explore the nearby Lee Valley, which stretches along the River Lea northeast from London into Buckinghamshire and Essex. Some of it was transformed into London’s Olympic Park for the 2012 games, bringing a welcome green lung to the capital’s east. Its handful of campsites take in tent spots, caravan parks, cosy lodges and pre-pitched safari tents, while adventure activities swing from white-water rafting to rowing along the river to leisurely horse riding.

Epping Forest

Another favourite nature spot on London’s fringes, Epping Forest sits just north of Hainault on the Essex-Hertfordshire border. With endless hiking paths, cycling routes, horseback trails and everything from paintball to windsurfing, you’ll be spoilt for entertainment. And while you can’t pitch up in the forest itself, there are wild-camping and caravanning sites on its edges.

Kent Coast

Kent’s beach-strung northern coastline awaits within a two-hour drive of Hainault Forest, offering up lively, bohemian beach towns such as Whitstable and Margate alongside miles of seaside walks, plenty of watersports and tempting ocean-view camping spots.

Suffolk Coast

Trundle less than two hours east from Hainault Forest to reach the pretty villages, Tudor mansions and pastel-painted resorts dotted around Suffolk’s sleepy littoral, not to mention the unmissable Algo-Saxon burial mounds at Sutton Hoo. Rewarding hikes lead along the 96-km Suffolk Coast Path, with tempting stops including Aldeburgh. There’s also fabulous coastal cycling, along with sunset horse rides along the golden beaches.

Popular Hainault Forest glamping styles