Woodland glamping in Hainault Forest

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.

92% (463)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

92% (463)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Barn KT9

97%

(271)

22 units · Tents, Glamping · Greater London, South East England

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

2. Wild Boar Wood Campsite

97%

(68)

9 units · Glamping · Haywards Heath, England

Wild woodland glamping in the heart of Sussex with fires

3. Beech Estate Campsite

97%

(185)

57 units · Tents, Glamping · Battle, England

Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway

4. Surrey Hills Yurts & Bell Tents

9 units · Glamping · Surrey, South East England

Yurt glamping in the Surrey Hills

5. Palace Farm Campsite

99%

(58)

28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Kent, South East England

Unpretentious and peaceful camping in an underrated spot

6. 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.

7. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping

95%

(65)

17 units · Tents, Glamping · East Sussex, South East England

Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands

8. Wingbury Farm Glamping

98%

(26)

3 units · Glamping · Buckinghamshire, South East England

Modern pod glamping with hot tubs in a quiet Buckinghamshire meadow

9. The Secret Campsite

99%

(91)

21 units · Tents, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England

A not so secret campsite in East Sussex with camping and glamping – and campfires encouraged

10. The Orchard at Fen End Farm

96%

(13)

7 units · Glamping · Cambridge, England

No passing traffic; no near neighbours; just sweet rural seclusion when glamping at this organic Fenland apple orchard near Cambridge

11. Lockhurst Hatch Farm Glamping

100%

(8)

1 unit · Glamping · Surrey, South East England

A single, traditional shepherd's hut with countryside views, and a cosy feel

12. Berty the yurty

94%

(18)

1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.

13. Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

100%

(21)

2 units · Glamping · Essex, East Anglia

Luxury shepherds huts near the Essex coast, with beautiful, watery surroundings and a wonderfully private setting

14. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%

(1)

1 unit · Glamping · England

Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike

15. Crockstead Fields Yurts

2 units · Glamping · Horam, England

Crockstead Fields is an eco-friendly boutique campsite tucked away in a secluded field in the East Sussex countryside. Packed with unique features and a range of luxury sleeping options, we are excited to open up our 2023 diary for summer camping expeditions. Within the site you can find hot showers, compost toilets, garden games, multiple seating areas and a fire pit. Our 10 furnished bell tents have been decorated specifically for the site and are a great camping option for those not looking to lug around a tent and bedding. There are some great local pubs and walks and over weekends you can find a working bar, catering options and various other elements in place on the site. Launching the 2023 season we have lined up an opening party weekend on the 26th May featuring plenty of family based fun and a range of camping options now available to book.

16. Belltent farm stay + activities

1 unit · Glamping · England

yurt belltent within the stunning grade 1 listed 60 acre working farm. Situated next to our crystal clear chalk stream with loads of activities included . The yurts are individually styled with proper double bed and extra beds, lighting and . Bedding access to our Yurt kitchen with everything needed for cooking , bbqs firepits plates , gas hobs kettles , electric point , fridge freezer, oven , sink , etc. Just bring your clothing , swimmers and towels if you want to use our streams , rivers, boats, paddle boards , flairs etc . We provide fishing instruction and catch nets to almost guarantee catch. Zipwire in our woodland area with hammocks , swings on the 700 year old Goldings oak tree, collect eggs from our friendly chickens ducks . Farm experience , with farmer morag where you cuddle , feed , our friendly mini baby goats , piglets , lambs , cows , horses and of course the famous Gary and elvis our adorable donkeys. Craft available , and our brand new Goldings Mini Beach , sand area next to the beautiful crystal clear chalk stream . No extra charges for any activities . Food truck on site . Explore our ancient woodland , meadows and rivers . Mins from Historic hertford town centre with its many bars restaurants , museum , art galleries , unique shops music venues . 10 mins walk to hertford north train station , 40 mins to central london . hertfordshire zoo , harry potter and many other attractions near .

17. The Deer Park Glamping,

1 unit · Glamping · Tenterden, England

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.

18. Goldings farm yurt with activities

1 unit · Glamping · CA

yurt belltent with double bed and additional beds within the picturesque grade 1 listed country estate and farm . Farm experience with farmer morag . feed pet our friendly donkeys , mini baby goats , piglets sheep etc. Collect eggs form our hens , zipwire woodland area , hammocks swings on 600 year old oak tree. sand play area , swim paddle ,boats , paddle boards etc on our crystal clear chalk stream. craft activities in hols .Full communal outdoor kitchen with everything needed for you to cook, electric point , gas hobs , fridge freezer , cookware , washing facilities , cooker, tea coffee kettles , . includes bbqs , firepits , covered seating areas table chairs . bedding , unique interior design , proper double bed, extra beds lighting , Wonderful 60 acre farm to explore with unique animals freely roaming .Just bring your pjs, food , charcoal , firewood . This is a real working farm and extraordinary country estate minutes from the historic Hertford town centre. 40 mins to central london , close to hertfordshire zoo , harry potter attraction , and many other facilities.

Camper favorites in and near Hainault Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

100%

(21)

2 units · Glamping · Essex, East Anglia

Luxury shepherds huts near the Essex coast, with beautiful, watery surroundings and a wonderfully private setting

Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%

(1)

1 unit · Glamping · England

Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike

Crockstead Fields Yurts

2 units · Glamping · Horam, England

Crockstead Fields is an eco-friendly boutique campsite tucked away in a secluded field in the East Sussex countryside. Packed with unique features and a range of luxury sleeping options, we are excited to open up our 2023 diary for summer camping expeditions. Within the site you can find hot showers, compost toilets, garden games, multiple seating areas and a fire pit. Our 10 furnished bell tents have been decorated specifically for the site and are a great camping option for those not looking to lug around a tent and bedding. There are some great local pubs and walks and over weekends you can find a working bar, catering options and various other elements in place on the site. Launching the 2023 season we have lined up an opening party weekend on the 26th May featuring plenty of family based fun and a range of camping options now available to book.

Belltent farm stay + activities

1 unit · Glamping · England

yurt belltent within the stunning grade 1 listed 60 acre working farm. Situated next to our crystal clear chalk stream with loads of activities included . The yurts are individually styled with proper double bed and extra beds, lighting and . Bedding access to our Yurt kitchen with everything needed for cooking , bbqs firepits plates , gas hobs kettles , electric point , fridge freezer, oven , sink , etc. Just bring your clothing , swimmers and towels if you want to use our streams , rivers, boats, paddle boards , flairs etc . We provide fishing instruction and catch nets to almost guarantee catch. Zipwire in our woodland area with hammocks , swings on the 700 year old Goldings oak tree, collect eggs from our friendly chickens ducks . Farm experience , with farmer morag where you cuddle , feed , our friendly mini baby goats , piglets , lambs , cows , horses and of course the famous Gary and elvis our adorable donkeys. Craft available , and our brand new Goldings Mini Beach , sand area next to the beautiful crystal clear chalk stream . No extra charges for any activities . Food truck on site . Explore our ancient woodland , meadows and rivers . Mins from Historic hertford town centre with its many bars restaurants , museum , art galleries , unique shops music venues . 10 mins walk to hertford north train station , 40 mins to central london . hertfordshire zoo , harry potter and many other attractions near .

The Deer Park Glamping,

1 unit · Glamping · Tenterden, England

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.

Goldings farm yurt with activities

1 unit · Glamping · CA

yurt belltent with double bed and additional beds within the picturesque grade 1 listed country estate and farm . Farm experience with farmer morag . feed pet our friendly donkeys , mini baby goats , piglets sheep etc. Collect eggs form our hens , zipwire woodland area , hammocks swings on 600 year old oak tree. sand play area , swim paddle ,boats , paddle boards etc on our crystal clear chalk stream. craft activities in hols .Full communal outdoor kitchen with everything needed for you to cook, electric point , gas hobs , fridge freezer , cookware , washing facilities , cooker, tea coffee kettles , . includes bbqs , firepits , covered seating areas table chairs . bedding , unique interior design , proper double bed, extra beds lighting , Wonderful 60 acre farm to explore with unique animals freely roaming .Just bring your pjs, food , charcoal , firewood . This is a real working farm and extraordinary country estate minutes from the historic Hertford town centre. 40 mins to central london , close to hertfordshire zoo , harry potter attraction , and many other facilities.

Stories from the community

C

Chat

October 2025

2 nights at Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

Went as a solo traveller, the location was quiet enough to feel secluded enough, the cabin was clean warm with modern comforts, nice local pubs and excellent walks would recommend

C

Christine

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

My recent glamping trip in a bell tent was absolutely great, perfectly blending tranquil nature with a comfortable double bed; soft blankets and pillows and the spacious and thoughtfully decorated bell tent ready and waiting for us. We were able to immediately relax and enjoy our surroundings. It was the perfect escape for anyone who has had a long week at work and loves camping with a touch of luxury. The sun was shinning and it was wonderful to lie hammock! I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

Philippa

August 2025

With kids

1 night at The Barn KT9

Beautiful spot! I love that each plot has it's own BBQ and fire pit, this really made a difference to our stay. The games are a great touch and being able to walk to the cafe for a coffee and sausage roll in the morning was the icing on the cake. Honesty box for wood and coal, drinking water, clean (flushing!) toilets and showers, everything you could need. Can't wait to come back.

a

andrew

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Wingbury Farm Glamping

We had two excellent nights at Oak Pod. The boys (my three grandsons) really enjoyed themselves. The hot tub kept them amused and the campfire finished off their nights with the obligatory s'mores. The pub down the road was handy and the food good. We also spent an evening at the Indian on the way to Aylesbury. The pod was clean, well appointed, great shower, everything was there. Overall a fantastic break with my favourite boys

K

Kamlesh

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Second time here. Fantastic place. Must try. Ever so helpful. Great access to Ashford Common.

V

Victoria

July 2025

1 night at The Barn KT9

We absolutely loved our stay at the Barn KT9. It really is a little slice of camping heaven. The bell tent was beautiful and very comfortable for our family. The shower and bathroom facilities were clean and the on site cafe is a lovely bonus with great coffee!

A

Asa

July 2025

2 nights at Beech Estate Campsite

Everything we wanted it to be. A wonderful peaceful place. We will be back!

R

Ruth

July 2025

With pets

4 nights at Berty the yurty

Berty the Yurty is an amazing set up; the terrace area with the outside kitchen is gorgeous and where I spent most of my time, listening to birds and watching butterflies dance around wild flowers. Seating is well provided for with reclining wooden chairs (i don’t know the proper name for them) and a metal table and chairs which stay remarkably cool in the shade. Hand sanitizer provided around the place and in the composting toilet for use before moving outside and across to the sink for a proper handwashing is just *chefs kiss* I don’t think that there is anything that hasn’t been thought of and provided for an awesome yurting experience here; and if you need anything then George and his team are very responsive via messaging (and I expect by phone and in person for the less shy) to bring more sawdust for the toilet, or eggs and apple juice from the farm that day. If you have the opportunity to go then do! I’m so glad I did!

N

Nicola

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Lovely camping spot! Really cosy and inviting, perfect place to escape from the city just a stone's throw from London, great cafe and onsite facilities (barbecue, coal if needed, toilets, hammocks) - just enough to feel comfortable yet still embracing nature and the great outdoors! We loved it.

R

Ruth

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

We had a lovely stay at the barn. The site had everything we needed! The coffee shop opening early was a huge perk not to mention the amazing gym too! Would highly recommend, thank you so much!

C

Claire

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Great site. So much empty space and calm :) We will definitely be returning with friends..

N

Noor

June 2025

2 nights at Wingbury Farm Glamping

One of the best little get aways ever! I've visited twice in the last month and intend to go a few more times this year it is that good!! The host is a really nice guy too. Such a peaceful, relaxing experience - I'll never forget this place ❤️

C

Claire

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Amazing trip😃 Hammocks were awesome even in the rain and the games were a great addition Bell tent with fire pit was so much fun for a girls night away and the bed was so comfortable Will be back again 👍

v

veronika

May 2025

With pets

2 nights at Berty the yurty

We Stayed in a beautiful yurt nestled near the forest, located on a charming farm. Enjoyed fresh air, peace and quiet, and cozy comforts. Woke up to the scent of nature and started our day with our delicious homemade apple juice and fresh free-range eggs. The warm, welcoming host was happy to share local tips and helped make our stay relaxing and memorable.We would recommend to others 😃👍

H

Helen

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

KT9 barn is brilliant. The bell tent was spacious and we loved the extra bits of detail on the campsite like the hammocks and badminton net. Outdoor toilets and showers were clean and a good bit of the experience for the kids

M

Melanie

May 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beech Estate Campsite

The bell tent had everything we needed and the setting in the woods among the bluebells was incredible. Steve was fantastic at helping us sort out a booking mistake on my part, and once we got there everyone was super kind and helpful. Will definitely come back soon!

B

Berni

April 2025

1 night at The Barn KT9

An idyllic setting, beautifully kitted out bell tents, great facilities - Weber bbq, firepit, deck chairs to relax and enjoy the views, delicious coffee and pastries - excellent service all around. What a gem of a place! Thank you to Charlie and team for a memorable visit

C

Claire

December 2024

2 nights at Wingbury Farm Glamping

Our time on William’s land was everything we had hoped for. We wanted somewhere to get away from the busyness of Christmas for a couple of days and Oak Pod was perfect. The accommodation was cosy, comfortable and well-equipped and the views across the fields gave us that chance to chill we were seeking. The hot tub was sublime and the BBQ good. Will could not have been more helpful and ensured our stay was excellent. I am sure we will return.

M

Maxine

December 2024

Weekend Trip to Berty the yurty

We had an excellent stay at Berty the Yurty. As we stayed in Dec, even the wood burner was on for our arrival and Roy kindly met us to show us around. The facilities are impressive given the outdoor nature of the experience and it really is a chance to unwind and disconnect for a few days. The fresh eggs, sourdough, milk and apple juice were a lovely touch and Roy was very helpful when we needed the chopped wood topping up! Thank you for a wonderful stay!

R

Roisin

December 2024

2 nights at Wingbury Farm Glamping

Stayed here in December with my boyfriend and had a great time! The pods are well equipped with everything you need and the wood fired hot tub outside our pod was incredibly cosy and a nice touch. It’s a very private vibe and felt safe. Only slight downside would be if you’re looking to go on a walk in winter months, it’s very wet and muddy so be prepared.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Woodland glamping 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.