Dog-friendly glamping in Kent Downs AONB

Sloping farmlands, ancient woodlands, and lush wetlands make up the vast landscapes of the Kent Downs. Kent isn’t called the ‘Garden of England’ for nothing—visit the downs in spring to stroll through bluebell woods and daffodil meadows, in summer when wildflowers blanket the hilltops, or in autumn to admire the changing foliage. Miles of hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails await outdoor adventurers, and campers have options year-round. Camp out in a tipi or pitch your tent by the beachside in summer, then cozy up in a heated glamping hut when the weather turns.

98% (727)

Top-rated campgrounds

Sloping farmlands, ancient woodlands, and lush wetlands make up the vast landscapes of the Kent Downs. Kent isn’t called the ‘Garden of England’ for nothing—visit the downs in spring to stroll through bluebell woods and daffodil meadows, in summer when wildflowers blanket the hilltops, or in autumn to admire the changing foliage. Miles of hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails await outdoor adventurers, and campers have options year-round. Camp out in a tipi or pitch your tent by the beachside in summer, then cozy up in a heated glamping hut when the weather turns.

98% (727)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Stone Pit Meadows

100%

(8)

5 units · Glamping · Sandhurst, England

Bell tent and shepherd's hut glamping in a wild and luscious space, 5 minutes from Bodiam Castle.

4. Remote Cabin w/ Unspoiled Views

92%

(6)

1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, England

Escape to a truly ROMANTIC off-grid getaway, offering an awe-inspiring SUNSET view that will leave you breathless. Experience absolute serenity as the twinkling stars illuminate the night sky, creating a mesmerizing ambiance with the warmth of a crackling wood fireplace. Nestled within the Kent Downs Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just 6 miles from Canterbury, our secluded retreat provides pure tranquility. In The Guardian's list of the Top 10 Best UK Off-Grid Retreats (Dog Friendly)

5. 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.

Stories from the community

N

NAvdeep Dhillon

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

We absolutely enjoyed our stay at the campsite, and came back home feeling relaxed. The nearest town is 7-8 minutes drive in case one needs groceries (big Waitrose). The camp site has a big pond to chill by. Also, all tents are evenly spaced out so everyone has their privacy. Toilets were clean and well maintained. The camp site is so well maintained- and the provision of kettle and microwave oven was a big hit. We plan to return with our friends soon.

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!

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 😃👍

S

Seth

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Remote Cabin w/ Unspoiled Views

Great place to stay, easy to get to from London, very quiet and private feeling. Lovely accomodation, comfortable bed. Had a fantastic weekend.

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!

Available this weekend

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.

Ham Hideaway

100%

(2)

5 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England

Glamping in the Kent countryside, close to the coast – with an optional butler catering service

The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(71)

3 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England

Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else

Luna Domes

100%

(9)

8 units · Glamping · East Grinstead, England

High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England

Star Hosts in Kent Downs AONB

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.

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

Star Field Camping

97%

(62)

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

Off-grid camping and glamping in the High Weald of Kent with campfires, acres of space and a farm shop on site

Tomkins Farm

96%

(164)

42 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · North Chailey, England

Relaxed camping beside a lake on an East Sussex farm, with alpacas, llamas, and camels

Glassenbury Camping

99%

(65)

33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Cranbrook, England

Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country

Dog-friendly getaways

Remote Cabin w/ Unspoiled Views

92%

(6)

1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, England

Escape to a truly ROMANTIC off-grid getaway, offering an awe-inspiring SUNSET view that will leave you breathless. Experience absolute serenity as the twinkling stars illuminate the night sky, creating a mesmerizing ambiance with the warmth of a crackling wood fireplace. Nestled within the Kent Downs Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just 6 miles from Canterbury, our secluded retreat provides pure tranquility. In The Guardian's list of the Top 10 Best UK Off-Grid Retreats (Dog Friendly)

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.

Stone Pit Meadows

100%

(8)

5 units · Glamping · Sandhurst, England

Bell tent and shepherd's hut glamping in a wild and luscious space, 5 minutes from Bodiam Castle.

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.

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Dog-friendly glamping in Kent Downs AONB guide

Where to go

North-West Downs and the Surrey Hills

The northern borders of the Kent Downs lie right on the outskirts of London, making it a popular choice for day-trippers. Enjoy rambling country walks around Sevenoaks, visit the Knole deer park, and stroll through the orchards of Plaxtol. For long-distance hikers, the North Downs Way national trail runs west into the Surrey Hills AONB.

Medway

North of Maidstone, the River Medway winds its way north to the coast, and the downs give way to lush marshlands. Set sail on a river cruise, discover the hometowns of Charles Dickens in Rochester and Chatham, or go bird-watching along the Thames Estuary at Northward Hill. To the east, seafront campsites and blue-flag beaches dot the shores of the Isle of Shetty.

Central Downs and the North Coast

The Kent Downs AONB has hikes to suit all levels. Explore ancient woodlands and Iron Age ruins in the White Horse Country Park, walk the valleys of the Devil's Kneading Trough, or stroll among the wildflowers in Perry Wood. Camp out in the hills and enjoy day trips to Kent attractions such as Canterbury Cathedral and Leeds Castle.

Kent’s South Coast

Few natural landmarks are as iconic as the White Cliffs of Dover, and a walk along the famous sea cliffs is a must if you’re visiting the south coast. Afterward, cycle along the Royal Military Canal, stroll along the beach at Folkestone, and choose a campsite with a sea view. Further south, it’s an easy detour to explore the Romney Marshes, a favorite among bird-watchers.