Campsites with wheelchair access 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.

85% (130)

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.

85% (130)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Pitchcott Farm

92%

(31)

11 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Aylesbury, England

Nearly wild, back-to-nature camping on a regenerative farm in Buckinghamshire

2. Laleham Camping Club

100%

(10)

124 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England

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

3. Palace Farm Campsite

99%

(58)

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

Unpretentious and peaceful camping in an underrated spot

4. Farm stay belltent with activities

9 units · Tents · England

large belltent with double beds and other beds furnishing , outdoor kitchen close by with everything needed to cook bbq , firepits gazebos table chairs lights etc . just bring bedding , charcoal , wood and your clothes and towels! Everything else provided with activities fishing , swimming paddling boats paddle boards goldings beach by the crystal clear chalk stream , 60 acre rare breeds farm and grade 1 listed country estate to explore. Zipwire woodland area collect eggs chickens , hammocks play areas craft mini goat walks farm tour meet feed our friendly donkeys , mini cows piglets lambs etc Outdoor kitchen with everything needed , shelters

5. Allington Lock Campsite

100%

(3)

10 units · Tents, Glamping · England

Set beside a peaceful river, this family-friendly campsite offers a simple, nature-filled getaway. Pitch your own tent on one of our 8 non-electric grass pitches, or make yourself at home in one of our two cosy Scandinavian-style softwood cabins, each sleeping up to 4. Please note: guests staying in cabins will need to bring their own bed linen. Onsite facilities include: Riverside setting for a tranquil stay Hot showers and toilets Covered eating area with BBQs Cabins with electricity (for charging devices only) Parking for 1 car per booking (£5 per night) Dogs welcome Onsite CCTV and security barriers

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.

7. Ditchling Boutique Camping

86%

(22)

101 units · Tents · Ditchling, East Sussex, South East England

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.

8. Finchingfield Lavender & Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Finchingfield, England

Luxury camping and glamping pitches within a wildflower meadow. Private loo per pitch, fire pit with BBQ Grill & a picnic bench. Our North Essex hideaway is perfect for a country retreat under the stars. Just over an hour away from London, located in a rural setting outside the chocolate box village of Finchingfield with tea rooms and three great independent pubs. We are a micro Lavender farm home to 3.5 kms of hand planted Lavandula × intermedia 'Lavender Grosso'. Our campers and glampers have unlimited access to our lavender field which overlooks rolling fields and sunset views, perfect for a relaxing evening amongst the purple blooms

9. The Hop Farm

82%

(37)

50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Brenchley, England

The Hop Farm is set in 500 acres of unspoilt Kent countryside, known as the Garden of England. Flat grass fields and surrounded by private woodland and also fields abut the River Medway, ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Campers have access to newly refurbished facilities, state of the art showers, toilets and washing facilities. Raised BBQ's and raised firepits are permitted - we also rent these out (subject to availability). It's the ideal location for a peaceful escape with endless skies providing memorable sunsets and stars unhindered by artificial light. SITE RULES: Admission is only permitted after registering at reception. At least one of the party members must be aged 21 or over. Under 18s must be accompanied by their parents or legal guardians. Group bookings of 6 or more adults are not permitted (couples and immediate family members excepted). No hen/stag parties permitted. Single-sex bookings of 4 or more people (couples and immediate family members excepted) are not permitted.

10. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%

(8)

4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England

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.

11. Beck Evans Farm Campsite

1 unit · Tent · England

Nestled in the scenic countryside, Beck Evans Farm Campsite offers the perfect balance between natural charm and city convenience. Just 30 minutes from Central London and a short drive from iconic attractions like the O2 Arena in Greenwich, our peaceful site provides an ideal base for exploring the capital or heading toward the coast on your way to Europe. Next to the river cray, set among lush fields of lavender and pumpkins, Beck Evans Farm is a haven for nature lovers and families alike. On-site, you’ll find Penelope’s Farm Shop and Restaurant, serving fresh, local produce, and the ever-popular Crazy Club Soft Play – a hit with younger visitors. Whether you’re pitching a tent, arriving with your camper, or simply looking for a countryside break, you’ll enjoy fantastic facilities, plenty of open space, and a warm welcome. With the coast not far away and a variety of local attractions to explore, Beck Evans Farm Campsite is the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend getaway or a stopover on your European adventure.

12. Lee Wick Farm Cottages & Glamping

8 units · Glamping · England

We have a total of 20 cabins, 3 tent pitches and 3 pitches for touring caravans or motorhome. Lee Wick Lane is a beautiful secluded location near the historic village of St. Osyth, with our nearest city being Colchester, a similarly historic roman city. We are surrounded by fields and are really near the sea with the Colne Point Nature reserve on our doorstep.

13. Hartfield Farm

8 units · Tents · East Grinstead, West Sussex, South East England

Private paddocks with horses and outstanding views. Lots to do and see locally- Hever Castle, Chiddingstone Castle. Very scenic Lots of walks and cycling routes. can walk/cycle along the worth way for miles. Option to ride horses at the campsite (three people per session at extra cost) Quiet and peaceful. There is running water but no electric/showers/toilets. There is a nearby caravan park up the road with a shower/toilet block.

14. The Hare lodge

100%

(11)

2 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England

Luxury safari tent glamping on a rural Kent farm within walking distance of the local vineyards yet speedily reached from London

15. 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 .

16. 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.

17. Hammonds Glamping

10 units · Glamping · England

A relaxing and fun family holiday! Stay in one of our 10 large furnished bell tents in the Surrey countryside, with loads to do on site and great family days out close by. Dogs are very welcome too so the whole family can come along. At Hammonds you can look forward to a well-deserved break from home life. We also welcome Exclusive Hire for the whole site, sleeping up to 50 people it's perfect for groups of friends, family gatherings or class trips. Enjoy our luxury furnished tents with comfortable beds, bedding and your own firepit. On site you can freshen up with our well-equipped toilet and shower facilities, play games or relax under the communal stretch tent, wake up to a delicious Surrey Hills coffee from our refreshments trailer, and explore acres of beautiful grounds in the National Trust Park and access to Hatchlands House and Park. Based in West Horsley, you will find pubs and local shops within walking distance, and lots of great days out within a 20 minute drive.

18. The View - Beckley

1 unit · Glamping · England

The View is a space for you and your group to getaway from it all, relax and unwind in beautiful East Sussex countryside. With woodland to the right, and fields to the left and beyond it's a perfect space to spend time with family and friends. The site benefits from Electric outlets Gas fired showers Newly refurbished toilet trailer Mains water Amble parking on hard standing Secure access via electric gates Sole use for your booking The option to have fully furnished glamping tents The option to have a tipi marquee or stretch tent Festoon lighting 'The View' isn't a space for booming music until late, or for a heavy weekend in the drink - it really is a family and group friendly location where you can enjoy yourselves.

Camper favorites in and near Hainault Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Hartfield Farm

8 units · Tents · East Grinstead, West Sussex, South East England

Private paddocks with horses and outstanding views. Lots to do and see locally- Hever Castle, Chiddingstone Castle. Very scenic Lots of walks and cycling routes. can walk/cycle along the worth way for miles. Option to ride horses at the campsite (three people per session at extra cost) Quiet and peaceful. There is running water but no electric/showers/toilets. There is a nearby caravan park up the road with a shower/toilet block.

The Hare lodge

100%

(11)

2 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England

Luxury safari tent glamping on a rural Kent farm within walking distance of the local vineyards yet speedily reached from London

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 .

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.

Hammonds Glamping

10 units · Glamping · England

A relaxing and fun family holiday! Stay in one of our 10 large furnished bell tents in the Surrey countryside, with loads to do on site and great family days out close by. Dogs are very welcome too so the whole family can come along. At Hammonds you can look forward to a well-deserved break from home life. We also welcome Exclusive Hire for the whole site, sleeping up to 50 people it's perfect for groups of friends, family gatherings or class trips. Enjoy our luxury furnished tents with comfortable beds, bedding and your own firepit. On site you can freshen up with our well-equipped toilet and shower facilities, play games or relax under the communal stretch tent, wake up to a delicious Surrey Hills coffee from our refreshments trailer, and explore acres of beautiful grounds in the National Trust Park and access to Hatchlands House and Park. Based in West Horsley, you will find pubs and local shops within walking distance, and lots of great days out within a 20 minute drive.

The View - Beckley

1 unit · Glamping · England

The View is a space for you and your group to getaway from it all, relax and unwind in beautiful East Sussex countryside. With woodland to the right, and fields to the left and beyond it's a perfect space to spend time with family and friends. The site benefits from Electric outlets Gas fired showers Newly refurbished toilet trailer Mains water Amble parking on hard standing Secure access via electric gates Sole use for your booking The option to have fully furnished glamping tents The option to have a tipi marquee or stretch tent Festoon lighting 'The View' isn't a space for booming music until late, or for a heavy weekend in the drink - it really is a family and group friendly location where you can enjoy yourselves.

Stories from the community

A

Alex

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Morag went above and beyond to make myself, my partner and my pals comfortable although only there for a night we had an unforgettable evening and morag most definitely aided in that- thank you so much ❤️

G

Gin

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pitchcott Farm

At Pitchot farm, we felt very good, a quiet place with various views, where you can have a barbecue or sit in the evening by the warmth of the fire. I highly recommend!

B

Bob

September 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Laleham Camping Club

Right by the river. Clean site, hot showers, friéndly host

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.

L

Lea Marie

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Hop Farm

The camping field is fairly big and basically bare (as can be seen on the pictures). Everything went as expected, toilets and showers were functional (even though not the cleanest and prettiest but that is to be expected from a camp of this size I suppose). Since the field is so big, it was quite windy without anything to break the winds but otherwise all good.

A

Aron

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Pitchcott Farm

The site was absolutely beatiful in a lovely area. Couldn't reccomend it enough. Tony and Sarah were also a great help and made it very clear that I could contact them if I needed any assistance

A

Amy

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Lovely place, rustic and very back to nature. My son loved the whole experience! The little river is a winner and him and his friend had the best time on it the boats and paddle boards. Such a lovely relaxing and peaceful place for us adults aswell! Morag was so friendly and approachable and very laid back.

C

Chris

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Having the farm animals in the same field as us, and them being as relaxed around us as we were around them, was magical. There are full on working farms and at the other end of the spectrum are children’s petting farms - this is neither, it’s living together naturally. We brought our own tent and were told to pitch up anywhere we liked and can make our own fire to cook in etc, and forage for wood in the forest, back to nature stuff. We collected eggs every morning from the chickens and cooked them on the fire - the children were amazed and adored it.

g

grace

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Thanks so much Morag for another magical stay- second time staying with you but first with our children and it was a great success. A lot has changed since our first stay last year with the addition of a new yurt kitchen complete with all the essentials needed, new zip wire, woodland play area and sandpit. The farm has absolutely everything- beautiful surroundings, camping along the river with ample space for the kids to run and play. We made use of all the facilities, there are boats on site so we took these along the river, the children fed the chickens and collected eggs in the morning, they also thoroughly enjoyed walking the goats and spending time with all the other animals on the farm. So overall a great success and we will without a doubt be booking again very soon so once again huge THANK YOU....keep up the good work :)

A

Anna

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hastingford Fishery Glamping

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.

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!

S

Sonia

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

We just returned from a magical weekend at this charming family-friendly campsite, and I can’t recommend it enough! If you're looking for a peaceful spot where kids can truly connect with nature, this is the place. The highlight for our little ones was definitely the farm animals. They loved feeding the goats, watching the chickens peck around, and saying good morning to the friendly donkeys each day. It added such a sweet, wholesome touch to the whole experience. The stream that runs through the site was another huge win. The water is shallow and safe enough for kids to splash, wade, and build little dams for hours. It felt like stepping back into a simpler time, where screens were forgotten and imagination took over. The campsite itself is clean, well-maintained. Usually you get charged for renting a fire pit but here that’s included! Plenty of space to run and play, but still quiet and relaxing for the adults. The small on-site shop with quick meals definitely saved our late night arrival. All in all, this site offers a perfect mix of rustic charm and comfort. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows around the firepit or helping your toddler feed a lamb, it’s the kind of place that leaves you with lasting memories. We’ll definitely be back

Jamie

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at The Hop Farm

Superb, well located and peaceful. Large site with multiple areas to pitch up. The rental fire pit was a nice touch. I would return.

H

Hannah

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Riverside Farm experience camp fire

We had such a lovely time, a wonderful pitch by the river. My children had a wonderful time playing there and seeing all the animals. Morag was a lovely host and we would love to come back again

J

Joana

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Hop Farm

Great place, and have a lot of room with you wanted to have a private space.

K

Kris

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Riverside Farm experience camp fire

Beautiful view!! Farm animals living free on the campsite, a little river for the kids to play in (even a little boat and sups to play with), in a very nice setting. Our kids didn't want to leave ;)

P

Peter

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Allington Lock Campsite

Our stay at Graham's cabin was great. As advertised, the cabin does not have bedding, so bring your own! The cabin was basic but enough for a good night's sleep. The facilities were good. While the logistics of getting booked in are a little complicated, Graham was incredibly caring in ensuring we found our way to the cabin at night. He went the 'extra mile' to ensure we would have a good stay. It all worked fine. The location is great. Right on the river, next to the lock. And a great little canteen serving lovely food with outdoor seating. I recommended this as a good cheap place to stay.

Keana

June 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Riverside Farm experience camp fire

This place is pure magic, couldn’t have asked for anything more. The location is stunning, based in a valley with views of meadows and grand trees as far as the eye can see. You would think you were deep in the countryside. The stream was crystal clear and crisp, we floated down on the kindly provided paddle boards which the kids loved. Not to mention the very friendly animals who wander freely around the site, it was beautiful seeing animals free in their natural environment. The piglets were extremely friendly and my daughter had so much fun playing with them. There is so much to do, in the woodland area my daughter had fun playing in the sandpit, swinging in the hammocks and zooming along the zip wire. We had a gorgeous fire in the pit provided, grilled our fish and enjoyed the starry night. In the morning we collected eggs from the lovely chickens - the freshest eggs I’ve ever had! And to top it all off, Morag is the loveliest person, such a genuine down to earth soul. We will definitely be back!

M

Matt

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Hop Farm

Back to basics weekend camp. Loved the space due to size of venue

g

graham

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pitchcott Farm

The views are great. It’s very peaceful. There’s a great football goal in the barn. Tony is a friendly and interesting owner. It’s a really big field with waist high grass, so being on the opposite side of it from the loos or shower is a bit of a challenge - pitch on the loos side if you can. It’s quite a long way to get water too.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites with wheelchair access 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.