Best Private Campsites in Kent Downs AONB 2025

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.

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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.

99% (50)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Far and Away Camping

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(18)

40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England

Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!

2. The Nut Plat Retreat

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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

3. Luna Domes

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8 units · Glamping · East Grinstead, England

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

4. Small Meadow Farm

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3 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Fairlight, England

Reconnect with nature, gently. Welcome to our low-impact, off-grid campsite nestled within a working permaculture fruit and herb farm. Here, a small flock of sheep graze as part of an ongoing project to restore a wildflower meadow. The land is alive with colour, birdsong and butterflies—and you’re invited to experience it at your own peaceful pace. 🌿 Space to breathe Only two pitches are available at any time (up to 8 people per pitch). Each pitch has: Private fire pit overlooking wide countryside views Camping area with on the lower slope near the shower and main compost toilet Retreat into the woodland strip at the top of the field—perfect for hammocks, hammock tents, shade in summer, quiet chats and listening to the wind through the trees. 🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns Add the large group tent, ideal for gatherings, sleeping or simply escaping the heat. It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding. Looking for a secure field kitchen? We can open the horsebox on the top field (small extra cost). It’s ideal for food storage, camp stoves and gear while you explore beaches and trails. 🌟 Special Exclusive Rental Hire the entire campsite area for your group £250 for up to 10 people up to 10 additional guests at £25/night per person Make the farm yours..... 🌄 Views worth waking up for: From the fire pits you’ll see far-reaching countryside views, and just a short walk away on Mountain Field or at The Balehouse (Hastings Country Park café & info centre) you’ll find truly breathtaking scenes over Rye Bay. Nature is the heartbeat here—bluebells in May, orchard blossoms, butterflies drifting through the herbs, and birdsong that wraps around the woodland. At night, the skies open up to the stars; in the morning, you’ll wake to dew-kissed grass and the first rays of sun. 🧘‍♀️ A slower kind of camping Bring a yoga mat, greet the day on the deck, cook outdoors, walk the cliffs, or unwind under the trees. Gather friends and family for a fire, BBQ, or a giant picnic—this field was made for simple, shared moments. 📌 Practical Notes Working farm: the farmer and WWOOFers are on site in areas separate from camping facilities. Exclusive use refers to the campsite areas, not the entire farm. Please bring your own drinking water.

5. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

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3 units · Glamping · East Hoathly, Near Lewes, England

The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.

6. Elham Treehouse

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2 units · Glamping · Folkestone, Kent, South East England

Rustic glamping in the Kent countryside between Folkestone and Canterbury

7. Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

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41 units · Tents, Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Pitches, bell tents and a gypsy caravan on the outskirts of Canterbury

8. Wonderland Festival Retreat

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2 units · Glamping · Henfield, England

Glamping by the lake with an optional sauna and hot tub

9. Glassenbury Camping

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

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

10. Battle Pods & Bells

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10 units · Glamping · Battle, England

Off grid bell tents and pods in a woodland just outside Battle

11. Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

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8 units · Tents, Glamping · Goudhurst, Kent, South East England

Simple camping and comfortable glamping amongst organic fruit trees, wild flowers and woodland, bordering an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with some of the darkest night skies in Europe. In the beautiful High Weald of Kent, Tash and Nick have been running May Tree Orchard's low-impact, nature-friendly, seasonal campsite, Plum Camping, for the last 5 years. The Soil Association certified organic land is full of wild flowers and surrounded by woodland and other orchards. Electricity and hot water for showers and washing up is solar generated. So you can charge your phone if necessary, but we'd recommend stargazing and enjoying the quiet warmth of friends and family around an evening fire instead. Bring your own tent, stay in the delightful hand-made shepherd’s hut or stylish caravan, or hire the whole May Tree Orchard space. Numbers are kept low here so that there is always plenty of room for everyone, as well as peace and quiet. The campsite is an hour and a half drive from London and a 20 min walk to the sleepy and pretty village of Goudhurst, with pubs selling great food and two local shops for self-catering. There are also two excellent farm shops within walking distance. Close to May Tree Orchard, there are walks via Sissinghurst, Scotney and Bodiam Castle, and water activities on the River Rother and at Bewl Water. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest is a ten-minute drive from the campsite and the coast around Hastings and Rye is just over 30 minutes. An amazing independent food business, Growing Communities, sells pears, apples and plums grown at the orchard in their box scheme serving North and South London, and you can also buy them from the Pear Necessities stall at Stoke Newington Farmers Market. Delicious apple juice and tasty chutney made from the organic apples grown in the orchard are available to purchase on site, as well as plum preserve and orchard plums.

12. Glamping @ Rankins Farm

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6 units · Glamping · Linton, England

Family-friendly pod glamping beside a 30-year-old plum orchard, with far-reaching views across the Kent countryside

13. Earth Camp

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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.

14. Woodfire at Chapel Field

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24 units · Tents, Glamping · Firle, England

A small off-grid site that celebrates Sussex with camping and campfire cooking in the South Downs National Park

15. Foot of the Downs

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3 units · Glamping · West Sussex, South East England

Glamping on a family farm in Sussex, just off the South Downs Way and not far from Brighton

16. Fontmills Farm Campsite

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40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · East Sussex, South East England

Family-friendly camping near the Cuckoo Trail, where campfires are permitted and space is guaranteed

17. Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs

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4 units · Glamping · Lewes, England

These super-sized, double-decker yurts on a charming East Sussex farm take glamping to another level.

18. Beau and Bell at South Farm

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10 units · Glamping · Lewes, England

Summer bell tent camping on a South Downs farm in Sussex

19. Stone Pit Meadows

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5 units · Glamping · Sandhurst, England

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

20. Caracol Camping

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8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England

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

Camper favorites in and near Kent Downs AONB

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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.

Woodfire at Chapel Field

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(8)

24 units · Tents, Glamping · Firle, England

A small off-grid site that celebrates Sussex with camping and campfire cooking in the South Downs National Park

Foot of the Downs

100%

(24)

3 units · Glamping · West Sussex, South East England

Glamping on a family farm in Sussex, just off the South Downs Way and not far from Brighton

Fontmills Farm Campsite

100%

(122)

40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · East Sussex, South East England

Family-friendly camping near the Cuckoo Trail, where campfires are permitted and space is guaranteed

Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs

100%

(15)

4 units · Glamping · Lewes, England

These super-sized, double-decker yurts on a charming East Sussex farm take glamping to another level.

Beau and Bell at South Farm

100%

(23)

10 units · Glamping · Lewes, England

Summer bell tent camping on a South Downs farm in Sussex

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.

Caracol Camping

100%

(5)

8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England

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

Stories from the community

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David

3 weeks ago

3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

Such a beautiful spot, we took Ransoms for 3 nights. Everything we needed was ready for us, nice kitchen and a lovely hot tub. The host is very friendly and helpful. Don’t miss out on The Kentish Rifleman’s Pie and a Pint on Tuesdays and walks through Plaxtol, Igtham moat, and the green fields.

Sunrises don't get much better than those at Far and Away Camping

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Adam

3 weeks ago

8 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Very nice location for stargazing lovely atmosphere exactly as described

George

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

This spot was perfect. Despite it being November and seeing a little more rain than we probably would have liked it didn’t take away the experience. Jayne was accommodating to our needs allowing us a fire pit as it was out of season. Would be back!

D

DONGHYUN

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

it was great place! great glamping! host is great!

S

Sunghwan

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

My family really enjoyed one night glamping at this lovely site. It is very quiet and cozy place. Best for family fun and rest.

A

Alan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Well worth the drive. Really nice site. Definitely be going back

J

Jason

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

My experience at fleet paddock was everything I had hoped for and more all the facilities were clean and well kept , I shared the family bell tent with friends and it had everything we needed for a memorable evening, the campsite was pretty busy but still maintained a peaceful family vibe, I would highly recommend this camping site to anyone wanting to escape the chaos of city life and connect with nature. For me the highlight was the clear sky's at night which revealed the most stars I have ever seen it was amazing 👏 🤩

S

Sumera

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Glamping @ Rankins Farm

Second time now, had an absolute blast. The host were very kind and went out of their way for us. Can't wait for the next stay.

G

Gillian

September 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Small Meadow Farm

We felt very lucky to be able to stay on Anna’s farm. It’s a beautiful, peaceful place with wonderful views. There’s an orchard and some very pretty sheep! We enjoyed the hammocks in the woods and the firepit. Would definitely recommend.

Immerse yourself in a world of enchantment and tranquility with our captivating green bow top caravan, offering a unique and picturesque retreat that promises an unforgettable camping experience.

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dipika

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

Excellent stay. Beautiful hut and surroundings. Place is exceptionally clean site and the Alex is always available and tops up all facilities and the best of host. Will be back. Dip & Dave

A

Alexander

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Battle Pods & Bells

It was great for my first trip with my son 11. Everything was exactly as advertised and more. Will definitely be returning next year and will certainly explore more of the 460acres of stunning woodland.

C

Cleo

September 2025

With kids

5 nights at Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

We loved your place, it's fantastic. All the little details make it extra special. Clean, great location, swings, a tree house, bats and balls, a kitchen and lounge area, a great view of rabbits in the field from the warm shower. Quite magical. Would definitely come again.

A

Akhil

September 2025

1 night at Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

Place is well maintained and beautiful. It has all the essentials needed and exactly as shown in the pictures. Enjoy making some BBQ food with a view to the open farm 😁

D

Demi

August 2025

3 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Earth Camp

really lovely welcome onto the site and friendly hroughout. facilities were nice and clean! loved the coffee van int he morning :)

N

Nick

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

This is a beautiful and quiet place to camp. We had a group of families, had our own space in the orchard that felt very separated from other groups. The location is peaceful with a beautiful view. The toilets were clean and well maintained, and we loved the solar shower looking into the woods. Natasha and Nick were incredibly welcoming and always available for any needs, and their kitten Little Cat was adorable. The site had table tennis, some other games, and lovely walks around it. The local pub did a great dinner. We'll be back!

M

Matt

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Excellent weekend stay. Fantastic location for stunning walks around the area. Vineyards, pubs etc all within walking distance.

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Alicja

August 2025

2 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

The Nut Plat retreat is great. We had a lovely time at the Bomford. Perfect relaxing break. Duncan is very nice and helpful. Bed is comfortable, shower is hot, there is everything you need. The Rifleman pub is a stones throw from the nuthatch, but unfortunately it was fully booked on Thursday, so it is worth to book a table in advance . Wood fired hot tub is a nice touch. Just have to be patient with it. Follow Duncan's instructions and you will get it very hot in less than two hours. Fire pit and all the trees around are lush. Even though you have neighbours around 100 meters away, it feels very private. Would definitely go back.

Big Top in the glamping field. Use the wheel barrow to ferry your things to the tent

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Megan

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Far and Away Camping

The tent was lovely and spacious. Loved the seating and fireplaces outside each tent. The communal kitchen had more or less everything needed. It’s conveniently close to Leeds Castle so we were able to spend a day there. Jayne was great and very helpful!

L

Lydia

August 2025

2 nights at Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

This was a wonderful place - a really idyllic setting and superb shepherd’s hut. Super cosy with its own secluded area and kitchen with everything you need. The orchard is beautiful, Natasha and Nick have done amazing job in making this a really special place. One of our favourite ever UK stays!

C

Chris

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

Puns aside, we enjoyed a really unique and magical two nights here, sleeping between the apple trees and enjoying the incredible skies above. The owners were as sweet and lovely as the Apple juice, and the solar shower was a brilliant experience, tucked away and private from the campsite, but open plan and facing the woodland behind. We shall be back!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Private campsites 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.