Wildlife-watching campsites in Holkham National Nature Reserve

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England’s largest NNR is still vaster than you think because, while stretching only 13 miles between Burnham Overy Staithe (west) and Blakeney (east) along the Norfolk Coast AONB, the amount of land between the closest coastal road and the sea is more expansive than meets the eye. This is all a tantalising tract of beach and dunes backed by enchanting pine forest and interspersed with mudflats. Discover secretive shoreside trails and sleepy lanes for cycling; wildlife-watch for seals around Blakeney Point or for the region’s many overwintering wildfowl. There are many places to peg up a tent on the flat fertile ground behind the coast – not least within the grand grounds of an 18th-century landscaped estate!

98% (375)

Top-rated campgrounds

Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

9. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%
(29)
108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · King's Lynn, England
🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
£17
 / night
Oxcombe Campsite

10. Oxcombe Campsite

100%
(6)
5 units · Tents · Horncastle, Lincolnshire, East Midlands
- Set in an old church paddock, it’s perfect for families seeking nature. - Surrounded by parkland, it offers stunning views of the Wolds. - Close to Horncastle, Louth, and the Bluebell Inn, it’s great for exploring. Escape to the tranquil beauty of Oxcombe Campsite, a family-friendly haven in the Lincolnshire Wolds. Set in an old church paddock surrounded by rolling parkland, traditional farm buildings, and grazing cattle, this tents-only site offers a peaceful base for your countryside adventures. With views of the historic All Saints Church and a relaxing natural atmosphere, it's perfect for unwinding in nature. Despite its rural charm, the campsite is conveniently located near plenty of attractions. The market towns of Horncastle (10 minutes) and Louth (15 minutes) are just a short drive away, offering antiques shops, local produce, and quaint streets to explore. For a delicious meal or a cosy pint, head to the Bluebell Inn in nearby Belchford, a friendly country pub just minutes from the site. When you're ready for more activity, you can enjoy scenic walks or bike rides along bridle paths and the Viking Way, or venture to the coastline at Skegness (30 minutes) for seaside fun. Families will love nearby adventure parks, wildlife centres, and beaches like Moggs Eye and Gibraltar Point, where you can soak up the sea air and spot local wildlife. Back at the campsite, you'll find all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including proper showers, indoor loos, a communal washing-up area with fridge access, and a cosy indoor seating area in "The Cowshed," a converted traditional barn. Kids can enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, and everyone can pick fresh fruit from the orchard next door - as long as the birds haven't beaten you to it! Whether you're exploring Lincolnshire's natural beauty, relaxing in a historic site, or enjoying a meal at the nearby pub, Oxcombe Campsite offers a mix of rural simplicity and thoughtful amenities for an unforgettable stay.
Pets
Potable water
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Piggles Retreat

18. Piggles Retreat

3 units · Glamping · Cambridgeshire, England
Nestled discreetly on the outskirts of the iconic town of Cambridge, UK, a mere 25-minute drive away, lies the exquisite Piggles Retreat. Elevating the glamping experience to unparalleled heights, this enchanting haven caters to both families and couples seeking an unforgettable getaway. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature as you indulge in the comfort of up to three exclusive wooden cabins, thoughtfully designed to accommodate 1-4 persons each. For those seeking extra space to unwind with extended family, children, or friends, an inviting annex cabin awaits your arrival. While preserving the essence of camping, each cabin boasts its own private bathroom, just a leisurely stroll away, ensuring convenience without compromising on authenticity. These authentic cabin are a dream-come-true. Located in a private area, these homes are equipped with everything you'll need for a relaxing time away. In a great position near to Newmarket, a stay in our cosy cabins are sure to be one of the most memorable vacations you'll experience. You can also have a relaxing boat ride on the lake. As a self-catering cabins, you'll find everything you need for a perfect stay. The kitchen areas have a fridge, a kettle, a freezer and a microwave. Cutlery and plates etc are supplied. The cabins are a perfect place to relax and offers a television. There is one bedroom in the cabins which contains a double bed. All bed linen is supplied. Although the cabins are designed for 2 guests it can accommodate up to 4 guests for an additional £ 30.00 per night per guest. There is a sofa bed and we can supply a put up bed if required. The extra guests will have to bring their own bed linen or bring a sleeping bag. There is a private luxury bathroom a short walk away which has a toilet and a walk-in shower. Shampoo and soap is provided but please bring your own towels. There are free parking on premises parking facilities available at the property. Use Code 8SJVPVML for 20% off any unit this summer!
Potable water
Showers
Trash
from 
£135
 / night

England’s largest NNR is still vaster than you think because, while stretching only 13 miles between Burnham Overy Staithe (west) and Blakeney (east) along the Norfolk Coast AONB, the amount of land between the closest coastal road and the sea is more expansive than meets the eye. This is all a tantalising tract of beach and dunes backed by enchanting pine forest and interspersed with mudflats. Discover secretive shoreside trails and sleepy lanes for cycling; wildlife-watch for seals around Blakeney Point or for the region’s many overwintering wildfowl. There are many places to peg up a tent on the flat fertile ground behind the coast – not least within the grand grounds of an 18th-century landscaped estate!

98% (375)

Top-rated campgrounds

Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

9. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%
(29)
108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · King's Lynn, England
🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
£17
 / night
Oxcombe Campsite

10. Oxcombe Campsite

100%
(6)
5 units · Tents · Horncastle, Lincolnshire, East Midlands
- Set in an old church paddock, it’s perfect for families seeking nature. - Surrounded by parkland, it offers stunning views of the Wolds. - Close to Horncastle, Louth, and the Bluebell Inn, it’s great for exploring. Escape to the tranquil beauty of Oxcombe Campsite, a family-friendly haven in the Lincolnshire Wolds. Set in an old church paddock surrounded by rolling parkland, traditional farm buildings, and grazing cattle, this tents-only site offers a peaceful base for your countryside adventures. With views of the historic All Saints Church and a relaxing natural atmosphere, it's perfect for unwinding in nature. Despite its rural charm, the campsite is conveniently located near plenty of attractions. The market towns of Horncastle (10 minutes) and Louth (15 minutes) are just a short drive away, offering antiques shops, local produce, and quaint streets to explore. For a delicious meal or a cosy pint, head to the Bluebell Inn in nearby Belchford, a friendly country pub just minutes from the site. When you're ready for more activity, you can enjoy scenic walks or bike rides along bridle paths and the Viking Way, or venture to the coastline at Skegness (30 minutes) for seaside fun. Families will love nearby adventure parks, wildlife centres, and beaches like Moggs Eye and Gibraltar Point, where you can soak up the sea air and spot local wildlife. Back at the campsite, you'll find all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including proper showers, indoor loos, a communal washing-up area with fridge access, and a cosy indoor seating area in "The Cowshed," a converted traditional barn. Kids can enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, and everyone can pick fresh fruit from the orchard next door - as long as the birds haven't beaten you to it! Whether you're exploring Lincolnshire's natural beauty, relaxing in a historic site, or enjoying a meal at the nearby pub, Oxcombe Campsite offers a mix of rural simplicity and thoughtful amenities for an unforgettable stay.
Pets
Potable water
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Piggles Retreat

18. Piggles Retreat

3 units · Glamping · Cambridgeshire, England
Nestled discreetly on the outskirts of the iconic town of Cambridge, UK, a mere 25-minute drive away, lies the exquisite Piggles Retreat. Elevating the glamping experience to unparalleled heights, this enchanting haven caters to both families and couples seeking an unforgettable getaway. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature as you indulge in the comfort of up to three exclusive wooden cabins, thoughtfully designed to accommodate 1-4 persons each. For those seeking extra space to unwind with extended family, children, or friends, an inviting annex cabin awaits your arrival. While preserving the essence of camping, each cabin boasts its own private bathroom, just a leisurely stroll away, ensuring convenience without compromising on authenticity. These authentic cabin are a dream-come-true. Located in a private area, these homes are equipped with everything you'll need for a relaxing time away. In a great position near to Newmarket, a stay in our cosy cabins are sure to be one of the most memorable vacations you'll experience. You can also have a relaxing boat ride on the lake. As a self-catering cabins, you'll find everything you need for a perfect stay. The kitchen areas have a fridge, a kettle, a freezer and a microwave. Cutlery and plates etc are supplied. The cabins are a perfect place to relax and offers a television. There is one bedroom in the cabins which contains a double bed. All bed linen is supplied. Although the cabins are designed for 2 guests it can accommodate up to 4 guests for an additional £ 30.00 per night per guest. There is a sofa bed and we can supply a put up bed if required. The extra guests will have to bring their own bed linen or bring a sleeping bag. There is a private luxury bathroom a short walk away which has a toilet and a walk-in shower. Shampoo and soap is provided but please bring your own towels. There are free parking on premises parking facilities available at the property. Use Code 8SJVPVML for 20% off any unit this summer!
Potable water
Showers
Trash
from 
£135
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Holkham National Nature Reserve

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Wildlife-watching campsites in Holkham National Nature Reserve guide

Where to go

Holkham Hall & Around

Within the NNR and south of Holkham village, this majestic early-18th-century, Neo-Palladian house and grounds were created out of formerly wind-blasted land transformed by the planting of thousands of trees. There is a pop-up campsite open between mid-July and mid-September near the lake on this majestic estate. Also on the Holkham Hall grounds is Ambers Bell Tents Glamping at Branthill Farm. Holkham Bay’s pine-backed sands are an easy walk north, where you can connect to the Norfolk Coast Path.

Scolt Head Island NNR

West of Holkham NNR, more of the same sort of coastline continues and here you find the sandy, shingly barrier island of Scolt Head Island NNR. The four-mile-long island is particularly important for its birdwatching and is accessed from either Burnham Overy Staithe or Brancaster Staithe. Deepdale Camping & Rooms at Burnham Deepdale is linked by footpath to the trail out to Scolt Head Island from Brancaster Staithe: pitch up yourself or camp out in already-erected safari tents.

Blakeney & Blakeney Point

At the eastern end of Holkham NNR, charming Blakeney is the village from where you can walk (or get a boat trip) to Blakeney NNR and Point, England’s biggest grey seal colony. Much of this reserve is off-limits to protect the seals, but trails run through the wetlands adjacent. Camping at the tranquil, informal Scaldbeck Cottage Campsite, near the departure point for seal-watching boat trips, is tough to trump.

Hunstanton & Around

Eleven miles west of Burnham Overy Staithe, 19th-century beach resort Hunstanton knows how to give its holiday-makers a good time: fairground, promenade, amusement arcades and aquarium are all here, alongside an array of camping and caravan parks. There is camping fairly centrally at Searle’s Leisure Park (camping tradition here dates back to 1934) but the best pitching is northeast of nearby Old Huntanton at the several sites along the edge of Holme Dunes NNR (more empty beaches, more ethereal dunes).

Top towns in and near Holkham National Nature Reserve