Safari tents 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.

99% (69)

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% (69)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping

95%

(65)

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

Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands

2. 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

3. 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

4. Barefoot yurts and Safari Tent

100%

(2)

2 units · Glamping · Rye, England

A unique self catering holiday   in an area of outstanding beauty Near Rye in East Sussex Escape to the peace and tranquility of the secluded countryside We offer a magical experience where you will connect with nature and fully relax. No neighbours, total privacy and uninterrupted views of the Brede valley. We feel very lucky to live in such a beautiful location where we are surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. Your experience at Barefoot yurts and Barefoot safari tent will be one that you never forget and be a place you want to come back to again and again, as so many of our guests do. We very much look forward to welcoming you. When you book our self catering Yurts or Our Safari tent you will have the whole site to yourselves. Both are in very private separate locations. Barefoot yurts has been a family business since 2009 Barefoot Yurts has 2 yurts booked together. One a bedroom and the other a sitting room that has sofa beds. There is a log cabin kitchen and shower room which is fully fitted and equipped for most cooking needs with electricity. The compost loo is next to the kitchen exclusive to the yurt guests. Barefoot safari tent is for 2 adults only. All under one roof is the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Off Grid.

5. 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

6. Woodchests Glamping

100%

(2)

3 units · Glamping · Pebmarsh, England

Safari tents in North Essex, close to the Suffolk border, with a fishing lake nearby.

Stories from the community

G

Grace

November 2024

With pets

2 nights at The Hare lodge

This was our second time to Gravel Pit Farm and we would come back over and over again! The perfect glamping experience especially with children and a dog. Just what we needed to switch off for a few days. There is lots to do locally with national trust castles very close. Annabel the host is kind and friendly too.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Safari tents 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.