Beach camping in East Sussex

There’s something undeniably cool about East Sussex.

96% (328 reviews)
96% (328 reviews)

Popular camping styles for East Sussex

Available this weekend

Under £50

8 top beach campsites in East Sussex

98%
(78)

Housedean Farm Campsite

7 units · Tents1 acre · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England
Epic views of the South Downs, and a walker’s paradise, hidden sweetly on the South Downs Way
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£16
 / night
96%
(576)

Chalky Downs

36 units · Motorhomes, Tents12 acres · Brighton, East Sussex, South East England
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
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£16
 / night
95%
(133)

Otter Channel Campsite

18 units · Tents3 acres · East Sussex, South East England
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
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£35
 / night
97%
(39)

Pett Camping

50 units · Tents11 acres · Rye, East Sussex, South East England
Back-to-basics camping on an East Sussex farm less than a mile from the beach
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£11
 / night
100%
(13)

Small Meadow Farm

3 units · Motorhomes, Tents4 acres · Fairlight, England
This low-impact, off-grid campsite is set within a working permaculture fruit and herb farm, with a small flock of sheep that are helping restore a wildflower meadow. There is a strip of woodland at the top of my field where you can escape summer heat under the trees and put up hammocks or hammock tents. I am offering only two pitches at any one time (up to 6 people per pitch). Each pitch has their own fire pit at the top of the field near the woodland, with camping lower on the slope nearer to shower unit and compost toilet. Each pitch also has its own compost toilet tent in the woodland, near the fire. Should the weather be uncertain there is the option of renting the group tent in addition to fire and camping areas, the group tent has a yoga deck/ flat outside area and can be used for sleeping or hanging out. Up on the top field we can open the horsebox as a field shelter/ field kitchen at a small extra cost, great for keeping food and camp cookers in when your are off exploring the beaches and surrounds. There are stunning far-reaching views form the fire pits and even more stunning views of Rye Bay, a short walk away on Mountain Field or at the Balehouse -which is the info centre and cafe of the Hastings Country park. Nature and the species I'm surrounded by are paramount, such as butterflies, wildflowers and birds. The whole site is full of birdsong, especially up near the woodland by the fire pits. At night you get clear views of the stars and my favourite thing is to wake up in the morning in the summer, seeing the dew on the grass, connecting with natural peacefulness and first rays of sun. In May the woodland and field are covered in bluebells and the blossom in the permaculture orchard is astounding. Do bring a yoga mat at stretch first thing on the yoga deck! Please Note: This is a working farm so farmer and woofer(s) are sometimes on site, in areas that are not part of the camping facilities. Exclusive use refers to campsite areas not the entire farm. New option for 2024, exclusive rental of campsite area, £250 for up to 10 people, 5 extras at extra £20 a night! Why not meet friends and family on the field and enjoy the scenery over a fire, BBQ or giant cook out/ picnic. It's a very peaceful and natural spot, yet only 10 minutes drive away from the Old Town in Hastings with all the music, people and festivals that go on. It really is the best of both worlds and I'm happy to share it!
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£50
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89%
(38)

Dogwood Glamping

4 units · Glamping1 acre · Rye, England
The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats
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£94.50
 / night
100%
(3)

Wildlings Camp

1 unit · Glamping3 acres · East Sussex, South East England
NB please message before bookings as I’m having problems with my external calendar and don’t want a double booking) Wildling Camp is in a tranquil location in East Sussex and is a campsite which can be rented for you and your group. Therefore perfect for private parties, retreats and special gatherings A space for those that are looking for the quiet life, and an opportunity to escape the stresses and strains of modern living off - grid with family and friends. A very safe environment for children and animals Tune into nature and know that your trip is having little impact on the environment. You don't need to pack anything other than yourselves. Accommodation is available on an exclusive use basis for 16+ in a converted horsebox and a 3 beautiful luxury bell tents, including a communal space, firepit, eco toilet and shower. Almost everything you may need to camp as comfortably as possible is provided, so you only need to pack the bare minimum. Wildlings Camp is set on a beautiful piece of land with views over the downs. Look out for deer and badgers scampering across the field in the mornings and buzzards in the sky. And the inquisitive ducks who have moved in and follow you around. You have your own beautiful large field, perfect for games, picnics or to do yoga in the morning, perhaps up by the pond? It is set within 40 acres of a farm with rights of way leading in all directions On the site there is a private indoor swimming pool in a magnificent 18th century converted barn, with a hot shower and toilet. It is heated to 32° which means on any grey wet days you have the back up of a lovely warm space and entertainment for the kids. This can be rented out on an hourly basis up to 10 guest per time. Pricing is PER HEAD. and numbers are extendable. In addition, "Little Wildlings" is a smaller version of the main camp in the adjacent field. The option is available to supplement the main camp by adding "Little Wildlings" to your booking, (depending upon availability). Gloria is a 7.5 tonne horsebox repurposed into a cosy comfy accommodation. Self sufficient in power via solar, converted using almost nothing but recycled materials 'wombled' from skips, recycling plants, and from what existed inside already, re-used in another capacity. As seen on series 2, ep4 George Clarke's Amazing Spaces on Channel 4. Gloria is also listed as a separate unit if the main campsite isn't booked out. Inside you will find 2 really comfy double beds, one above the cab with a porthole for looking at the tree tops, and one that is a sofa bed for chilling on during the day with a view straight out the back ramp when it's open. Sitting in bed in the morning with that ramp open is one of the most wonderful things. There is a small basic kitchen with gas hob and a fridge with small freezer.. And a dining table. A stereo with speakers both sides and she is fully insulated. Phone charging points. Gloria is a great option for those that aren't that keen on camping or tents, she's a unique cosy home from home. Warm, dry and lots of fun to stay in. Gloria sleeps 4 comfortably but a fold out bed can be added for an extra child at no extra cost. Basic provisions will be provided so you don’t have to lug all of that with you. This means things like olive oil, salt and pepper, basic herbs and spices and some herbal and builders teas bags. ‘Molly’ is a 5m bell tent with a full size double bed with a memory foam so no sleeping on the floor, and 2 singles. Lit and warmed by a candle chandelier and fairy lights. Romantic and dreamy. 'Moira' is more contemporary 5m bell tent, with an incredibly comfortable double futon and 2 singles. The sides can be lifted in hot weather to let the breeze in. There is plenty of room to add an extra single bed if need be. 'Felix' is another 5m bell tent This tent can be configured however you request fitting up to 6 singles. . I have one child's 'easy bed' blow up mattress and sleeping bag. A travel cot can be arranged. So numbers are from a minimum of 8 and comfortably up to 16. (Please see my other listing where it is possible to rent just Gloria for 4 people during off peak periods) A horse trailer "Lulu" has been converted into an off grid shower with an extra compost loo. Wildlings Camp is set on a beautiful piece of land with views over the downs. Look out for deer and badgers scampering across the field in the mornings and buzzards in the sky. On the site there is a private indoor swimming pool in a magnificent 18th century converted barn, with a hot shower and toilet. It is heated to 32° which means on any grey wet days you have the back up of a lovely warm space and entertainment for the kids. This can be rented out on an hourly basis and includes a life guard, for £70 per hour, up to 8 guest per time, which works out around £8 per person dependent on group size. This will be by separate arrangement as the pool belongs to the main house and is rented out as a swim school. I am renting it on your behalf as and when you book sessions. Access is very strictly monitored and only available as and when you book it I endeavour to be as gentle on the environment there as possible. I have a stringent "leave no trace" motto. Therefore to ensure no nasty chemicals are going into the ground I will provide locally made 100% natural cleaning and showering products for your use whilst on site. (Not necessary for the pool) Among other things the bedding is organic approved and I'm using an ethical green insurance company and totally green cleaning products and washing powders. A fire pit is provided and a basket of local sourced logs on arrival will be free and more can be ordered for £8 per load. These will need to be ordered in advance. There are 2 BBQs. One for meat, one for vegetarian. I can arrange for a company called Leaf and Ladle to deliver to site pre ordered vegan/vegetarian meals made with entirely organic ingredients, all the vegetables being grown themselves. Hearty happy nutritional meals that are feast for the eyes and incredibly good for you. Food is delivered in cardboard food boxes and trays, an array of salads and dips, one main dish ie a curry or tagine that can be heated up on the fire and served in the pots provided. No cooking or washing up necessary. A wonderfully nourishing add on. I also have 2 inflatable paddle boards for use on the nearby river or down at the sea, that I can rent out for £20 per board per booking. [To be used at your own risk)
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£400
 / night

Woodpecker Hill at Wayfaring Farm

2 units · Glamping10 acres · East Sussex, South East England
Host your own hill-top gathering. 10 acres of beautiful lower downland with flat glamping terraces in the South Downs National Park. Excellent beaches within 15 mins. drive, and the Seven Sisters are just 15 minutes from the campsite. We have 4 bell tents for our guests that are perfect for 16 people.
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£780
 / night

Star Hosts in East Sussex

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Value Prop

Perhaps that’s why it’s one of the UK’s top camping destinations, home to some of the nation’s best camping and glamping sites. It’s within easy reach of London and yet has miles of beautiful countryside including parts of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a large chunk of the South Downs National Park. There are quaint villages and market towns as well as the bright lights of boho Brighton, Hastings and Eastbourne. It’s a county steeped in history with castles, forts and ruins to visit, as well as a string of beaches and family-friendly attractions. Our selection of campsites includes the best places to pitch your tent or park up your caravan, as well as a collection of quirky glamping sites.

Beach camping in East Sussex guide

Overview

Popular locations in East Sussex

Whether it's touring 1066 country and visiting historic spots such as Battle, Hastings and Pavensey Bay or simply walking the chalky cliff tops of the Seven Sisters Country Park and the coastline around Eastbourne and Birling Gap, there are plenty of locations in East Sussex that draw the crowds. And deservedly so. As the Europe-facing front of Britain, East Sussex is awash with history and home to plenty of settlements with a story to tell. Here we pick out just a few of the key areas that campers love to visit on their holidays. It may just help you narrow down your search to find your perfect East Sussex campsite.

The best campsites in East Sussex

There are lots of incredible campsites in East Sussex and it’s easy to see why. Offering both coast and country between the city and the sea, it’s a great destination that’s easy to get to by road or rail. The most dramatic part of the South Downs, the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, are in the south west while at the opposite end of the county, a huge area is designated as the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Woodland, farmland, rolling hills and heathland stretch for miles and there are some interesting market towns and places to visit from quirky Lewes to historic Battle, not to mention the big-name seaside resorts of Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings.

With lots of cool campsites, competition is high and, subsequently, so are standards. You can camp among the bluebells of the county’s ancient woodlands, pitch up in a sunny meadow on the South Downs or find a favourite spot on a farm site in East Sussex. There are lots of sites with campfires allowed and plenty of places with added attractions: a tree swing here, a pizza oven there, forest school, circus skills, bushcraft courses and more. You name it – East Sussex campsites have probably got it. But that’s not to say it’s all organised fun and sociable sites; there are also more traditional sites and places where you can pitch for peace and privacy as well as a huge variety of incredible glamping sites. If you’re looking for the very best campsites in East Sussex, our collection will not disappoint.

Tent camping in East Sussex

East Sussex is a great place to pitch up with your own tent. There are dozens of places to choose from and whether you prefer the dappled shade of a woodland campsite, the wide skies of a meadow location or a pitch with a view, there’s likely to be a spot to suit you. We’ve done our best to seek out campsites which offer something a little bit special: it might be an amazing location, a super-friendly host or a bit of flair in the facilities. It’s unlikely to be a bar and a clubhouse, hardstanding pitches and row upon row of identikit pitches where you’re wedged between motorhomes. We steer clear of the big holiday parks and only give the thumbs-up to places we’d like to camp ourselves.

Sometimes back-to-basics tent camping is at its best when it’s just that: basic. Without the distractions of modern life, you can kick back and enjoy the simple things; the view of East Sussex coast or country, the sound of birdsong and the crackle of a campfire – ahhh bliss. For a real digital detox, leave mobile phones and tablets at home, along with the temptation to use them, and pitch your tent in a site that’s deliberately off-grid. Classic camping is also great value and great fun in to the bargain – plus you can feel pretty smug that your camping staycation is having a limited effect on the environment; use public transport to get to your pitch and it’s probably the most eco-friendly way to go on holiday.

Glamping in East Sussex

East Sussex seems to be particularly good at glamping offering everything from pre-pitched bell tents to some of the UK’s quirkiest accommodation. Fancy sleeping in a converted plane or a timber tree tent that’s suspended from the trees? You’ll find both among the glamping on offer here. There are glamping-only sites where you’ll be among like-minded people and campsites with a few glamping units where you’ll feel like you’re in first class. There are also a few secluded spots where there’s just a shepherd’s hut or two – perfect for a romantic weekend or private retreat.

Glamping is great for weekend getaways as you have less to take with you and more time to enjoy yourself. It also gives people without their own camping gear the chance to discover the joy of campsite life without investing in a lot of expensive equipment – for that reason it’s a great way for new campers to dip their toes in. You can choose from pre-pitched bell tents, yurts, tipis and safari tents if you fancy staying under canvas. These are great in summer and range from tents that are simply pitched for you to personalise to tents that have been completely kitted-out for you. Then there are romantic, retro and stylish gypsy wagons, shepherd’s huts and vintage caravans which hark back to simpler times and will have you reaching for the camera – no filter needed! East Sussex, along with the rest of the UK, has embraced glamping in the last decade and offers plenty of more elaborate glamping options too. There are treehouses, one-of-a-kind cabins, geodesic domes and converted vehicles and the list is always growing so we keep our eyes peeled and our collection updated with the latest developments in East Sussex glamping.

Family-friendly camping in East Sussex

Family-friendly camping in East Sussex is easy to find. There are lots of sites that have special activities and facilities for children from communal marshmallow toasting around the campfire to nature trails and forest school activities. Farm-based sites always go down a treat with kids with the opportunity to see the animals up close – and sometimes even help with some of the farm chores like collecting eggs and feeding newborn lambs.

Even the most basic of campsites can be family-friendly though as camping is an adventure in itself that your kids are almost guaranteed to love. There are new friends to be made on site and depending on the lie of the land there might be endless games of football to be played, woodlands to explore, dens to be built and ponds to be dipped. Choose a site that’s got a car-free camping field and you may be content to let the kids run wild. Our experience is that it’s a taste of freedom that kids will love. Apart from all the on-site fun, there are new places to explore and some pretty cool family-friendly attractions in East Sussex from English Heritage sites like Battle Abbey to seaside funfairs in Hastings and Brighton and farm-based attractions out in the countryside. And after all the fresh air, it’s likely that your kids will be worn out and ready to bed down in their sleeping bags – and guess what? The novelty of sleeping under canvas might just mean they are happy to snuggle up and drift off to sleep while you enjoy the last embers of the campfire.

Where to camp in East Sussex - The South Downs National Park

The South Downs is a ridge of chalky hills and downs stretching from Winchester in Hampshire, across neighbouring West Sussex and down to the sea near Eastbourne. Classified as a national park in 2010, it is Britain’s youngest. You can walk the length of the Downs on the 100-mile national trail, the South Downs Way and, of course, the most self-sufficient way to conquer it would be to carry your equipment and camp along the way. It’s also a great place to visit on a day out for shorter walks, mountain biking, horseriding, paragliding or simply to enjoy the far-reaching views over the Sussex countryside and down to the sea. Market towns and picturesque villages with country pubs punctuate the farmland and countryside of the Downs making great pitstops on walks in the area. There are plenty of campsites in and around the South Downs and some highly-recommended glamping sites too.

Campsites near Brighton

It’s only a few short miles from the South Downs to much-loved Brighton. The south-east coast’s most-popular and populated seaside resort embraces the alternative and is a fascinating place to visit with quirky shops and restaurants and plenty of attractions too. As a city, it may not seem like the obvious place for a camping holiday but there are some campsites within easy reach of its edges so it’s possible to camp and have an alternative city break. It’s also a great place for a day out. You can eat fish and chips from a deckchair on its famous pier, paddle in the sea and stroll through the maze-like Laines shopping area. Brighton blends seamlessly into Hove, where you can admire more elegant Victorian buildings and it’s not far to the market town of Lewes either. This historic town shares a fiercely independent streak with its bigger near neighbour and has its own fair share of quirky shops, cafes, attractions and historic buildings – albeit on a smaller scale.

The High Weald

The High Weald is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that’s characterised by yet more rolling hills with irregular-shaped fields, areas of woodland, farmsteads and ancient lanes which are a reminder of its medieval past. East Sussex claims most of the High Weald but its boundaries also include parts of Kent and West Sussex too. Instead of the chalk ridges of the South Downs and the parallel North Downs (in Surrey and Kent), the High Weald has sandstone ridges and quite a different feel. It’s a lovely place to camp if you like to be among peaceful, rural scenery and, as it’s in the north-east of the county, is one of the most easily accessible parts for people coming from London, West Sussex, Kent and parts of Surrey.

Among the High Weald’s boundaries in East Sussex and at the heart of the High Weald, is the open-access land of the Ashdown Forest. Despite the name, two thirds of the forest is heathland – an internationally important habitat for wildlife. Like the New Forest, you can wander freely through woodland and open heath and can sometimes see grazing animals here alongside the birds and butterflies. Parts of the Ashdown Forest are recognisable as places in the Winnie the Pooh stories by AA Milne, who had a house here. You can visit some of the locations on a visit to the Ashdown Forest, including Pooh Bridge where thousands of people visit each year for a game of Pooh sticks. Head to the Ashdown Forest Visitor Centre for more information.

Things to do in East Sussex

You’re never too far from the sea in East Sussex, so unless you live by the sea, there’s no better time to take a dip in the cool waters of the Channel than on a camping holiday in East Sussex. Even if you’ve pitched your tent in the midst of rural bliss, it won’t take long to get to the seaside resorts of Brighton, Eastbourne or Hastings for a paddle and a stick of rock or an ice cream cone. But if the bright lights of the amusements arcades are too much, how about visiting the vast sands at Camber or taking a stroll in the unspoilt Seven Sisters Country Park where the South Downs meet the sea? In fact, the county has plenty of great walks and its well-signposted, long-distance footpaths are a good place to start. Grab your hiking boots and set out on a stretch of the South Downs Way, the Ouse Valley Way or the Sussex Border Path and you’ll feel like you really deserve your campsite dinner! If your type of stroll is one where you get to peruse the shops of the high street or the goods at a local farmers’ market try Rye, Lewes or Battle. Historic Battle was the scene of the 1066 Battle of Hastings and you can visit the English Heritage-protected battle field and nearby abbey too.

The National Trust also has a number of properties in East Sussex, including Sheffield Park and Gardens, with formal gardens that are great throughout the seasons and plenty of space for picnics and walks. There are plenty of grand houses and gardens scattered throughout the county too as well as farm-based attractions that are great for kids. Other family-friendly attractions include Drusilla’s Park, the Sealife Centre in Brighton and the Bluebell Railway which runs from East Grinstead to Sheffield Park. For more ideas on days out in East Sussex visit the Love Sussex website.

About

Have you ever been camping in East Sussex? If you haven’t you’re missing out. With an array of campsites you really are spoilt for choice. Luxury glamping, woodland camping, campsites that are child-friendly, group-friendly sites. Plus many more camping options.

Top counties near East Sussex

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