Campsites near Hastings

·

Hastings might be one of the South Coast’s most underrated beach towns, but there are plenty of good reasons for campers to stop by. History buff? Visit the site of the Battle of Hastings, then explore the evocative ruins of Hastings Castle. Beach lover? Stroll down the pier or head down to the shingle beach to swim or sunbathe. Foodie? Tuck into fresh-off-the-boat fish and seafood at a sea-view restaurant. If you need a break from the beach, ride the East Cliff Railway up to the hilltop to enjoy a walk through the Hastings Country Park.

97% (1.9K) 531 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hastings

Small Meadow Campsite

1. Small Meadow Campsite

100%
(18)
5.7km from Hastings · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
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 views) 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 £20 pppn 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) 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Battle Pods & Bells

2. Battle Pods & Bells

100%
(13)
6.7km from Hastings · 10 units
Off grid bell tents and pods in a woodland just outside Battle
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£80
 / night
Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

3. Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

100%
(14)
7.6km from Hastings · 32 units
At Oak Valley Campsite, simplicity and space are part of the charm. Tucked among ancient oaks in the gentle countryside of Pett, East Sussex, this peaceful spot is all about traditional camping. Pitches are generous, grassy, and flat – ideal for tents and campers who like room to breathe. There are hot showers, proper loos, and fresh water on tap. At night, toast marshmallows around a hired fire pit, watch the stars, and enjoy the quiet. Explore local walks, pop down to Winchelsea Beach, or lose a few hours in the pretty streets of Rye, just 15 minutes away. Need to know: - No electric hook-up - Family-friendly & dog-friendly - Fire pits and logs available - Check-in from 2 pm
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£23
 / night
Dogwood Glamping

4. Dogwood Glamping

90%
(42)
7.9km from Hastings · 4 units
The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£95
 / night
Beech Estate Campsite

5. Beech Estate Campsite

97%
(185)
11km from Hastings · 57 units · Tents, Glamping
Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£22
 / night
Otter Channel Campsite

6. Otter Channel Campsite

95%
(159)
17km from Hastings · 18 units
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Fontmills Farm Campsite

7. Fontmills Farm Campsite

100%
(122)
22km from Hastings · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family-friendly camping near the Cuckoo Trail, where campfires are permitted and space is guaranteed
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£14
 / night
Star Field Camping

8. Star Field Camping

97%
(62)
24km from Hastings · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Off-grid camping and glamping in the High Weald of Kent with campfires, acres of space and a farm shop on site
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Glassenbury Camping

9. Glassenbury Camping

99%
(65)
25km from Hastings · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Hale Farm

10. Hale Farm

100%
(152)
25km from Hastings · 38 units · Tents, Glamping
A family-run, working farm in East Sussex offering spacious, traditional camping with no set pitches
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£15
 / night
Dernwood Farm Camping & Glamping

11. Dernwood Farm Camping & Glamping

95%
(65)
26km from Hastings · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs

12. Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs

100%
(15)
27km from Hastings · 4 units
These super-sized, double-decker yurts on a charming East Sussex farm take glamping to another level.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£249
 / night
Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

13. Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

100%
(20)
28km from Hastings · 8 units · Tents, Glamping
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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

14. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%
(13)
28km from Hastings · 3 units
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.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£90
 / night
Frittenden Orchard

15. Frittenden Orchard

97%
(18)
30km from Hastings · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Frittenden Orchard offers a unique camping experience nestled among fruit trees on a Kent farm near Staplehurst. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect: Accommodation: Grass pitches for tents, touring caravans, and motorhomes are available within the orchards. Off-grid camping provides a back-to-nature experience. Wildlife and Nature: Guests can explore the 11-acre woodland wildlife haven surrounding the camping fields, offering opportunities to spot foxes, badgers, and deer. Activities: Start your day with morning tai chi classes, suitable for beginners. Diane your host can suggest local walks and sightseeing activities. Food: Free-range eggs from the farm's hens and freshly picked strawberries are available. Guests can also bring grills for barbecues or visit the nearby village pub for meals. Facilities: While there's no electricity on-site, amenities include wifi, ice-pack freezing, and charging facilities for devices. Local Area: Frittenden village, just five minutes' drive away, Sisinghurst village ha offers a convenient store for locally sourced produce. Additionally the local pub is within walking distance with locally sourced ingredients. Sisinghurst castle - walking distance or 5 mins drive Restrictions and Regulations: The site does not have shower facilities. Certain dog breeds listed in the Dangerous Dogs Act are not accepted
Pets
Potable water
from 
£24
 / night
Alciston Court Farm

16. Alciston Court Farm

95%
(38)
30km from Hastings · 5 units
A back-to-basics campsite that’s well located at the foot of the South Downs
Pets
Campfires
from 
£30
 / night
Downsview Vineyard

17. Downsview Vineyard

100%
(55)
33km from Hastings · 5 units
Simple but sophisticated, adults-only bell tent camping on a tiny vineyard with distant views of the South Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£125
 / night
The Hare lodge

18. The Hare lodge

100%
(11)
34km from Hastings · 2 units
Luxury safari tent glamping on a rural Kent farm within walking distance of the local vineyards yet speedily reached from London
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£233
 / night
Far and Away Camping

19. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
35km from Hastings · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
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!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Glamping @ Rankins Farm

20. Glamping @ Rankins Farm

100%
(38)
38km from Hastings · 6 units
Family-friendly pod glamping beside a 30-year-old plum orchard, with far-reaching views across the Kent countryside
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£120
 / night

Hastings might be one of the South Coast’s most underrated beach towns, but there are plenty of good reasons for campers to stop by. History buff? Visit the site of the Battle of Hastings, then explore the evocative ruins of Hastings Castle. Beach lover? Stroll down the pier or head down to the shingle beach to swim or sunbathe. Foodie? Tuck into fresh-off-the-boat fish and seafood at a sea-view restaurant. If you need a break from the beach, ride the East Cliff Railway up to the hilltop to enjoy a walk through the Hastings Country Park.

97% (1.9K) 531 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hastings

Small Meadow Campsite

1. Small Meadow Campsite

100%
(18)
5.7km from Hastings · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
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 views) 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 £20 pppn 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) 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Battle Pods & Bells

2. Battle Pods & Bells

100%
(13)
6.7km from Hastings · 10 units
Off grid bell tents and pods in a woodland just outside Battle
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£80
 / night
Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

3. Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

100%
(14)
7.6km from Hastings · 32 units
At Oak Valley Campsite, simplicity and space are part of the charm. Tucked among ancient oaks in the gentle countryside of Pett, East Sussex, this peaceful spot is all about traditional camping. Pitches are generous, grassy, and flat – ideal for tents and campers who like room to breathe. There are hot showers, proper loos, and fresh water on tap. At night, toast marshmallows around a hired fire pit, watch the stars, and enjoy the quiet. Explore local walks, pop down to Winchelsea Beach, or lose a few hours in the pretty streets of Rye, just 15 minutes away. Need to know: - No electric hook-up - Family-friendly & dog-friendly - Fire pits and logs available - Check-in from 2 pm
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£23
 / night
Dogwood Glamping

4. Dogwood Glamping

90%
(42)
7.9km from Hastings · 4 units
The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£95
 / night
Beech Estate Campsite

5. Beech Estate Campsite

97%
(185)
11km from Hastings · 57 units · Tents, Glamping
Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£22
 / night
Otter Channel Campsite

6. Otter Channel Campsite

95%
(159)
17km from Hastings · 18 units
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Fontmills Farm Campsite

7. Fontmills Farm Campsite

100%
(122)
22km from Hastings · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family-friendly camping near the Cuckoo Trail, where campfires are permitted and space is guaranteed
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£14
 / night
Star Field Camping

8. Star Field Camping

97%
(62)
24km from Hastings · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Off-grid camping and glamping in the High Weald of Kent with campfires, acres of space and a farm shop on site
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night
Glassenbury Camping

9. Glassenbury Camping

99%
(65)
25km from Hastings · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Hale Farm

10. Hale Farm

100%
(152)
25km from Hastings · 38 units · Tents, Glamping
A family-run, working farm in East Sussex offering spacious, traditional camping with no set pitches
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£15
 / night
Dernwood Farm Camping & Glamping

11. Dernwood Farm Camping & Glamping

95%
(65)
26km from Hastings · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs

12. Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs

100%
(15)
27km from Hastings · 4 units
These super-sized, double-decker yurts on a charming East Sussex farm take glamping to another level.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£249
 / night
Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

13. Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

100%
(20)
28km from Hastings · 8 units · Tents, Glamping
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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

14. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%
(13)
28km from Hastings · 3 units
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.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£90
 / night
Frittenden Orchard

15. Frittenden Orchard

97%
(18)
30km from Hastings · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Frittenden Orchard offers a unique camping experience nestled among fruit trees on a Kent farm near Staplehurst. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect: Accommodation: Grass pitches for tents, touring caravans, and motorhomes are available within the orchards. Off-grid camping provides a back-to-nature experience. Wildlife and Nature: Guests can explore the 11-acre woodland wildlife haven surrounding the camping fields, offering opportunities to spot foxes, badgers, and deer. Activities: Start your day with morning tai chi classes, suitable for beginners. Diane your host can suggest local walks and sightseeing activities. Food: Free-range eggs from the farm's hens and freshly picked strawberries are available. Guests can also bring grills for barbecues or visit the nearby village pub for meals. Facilities: While there's no electricity on-site, amenities include wifi, ice-pack freezing, and charging facilities for devices. Local Area: Frittenden village, just five minutes' drive away, Sisinghurst village ha offers a convenient store for locally sourced produce. Additionally the local pub is within walking distance with locally sourced ingredients. Sisinghurst castle - walking distance or 5 mins drive Restrictions and Regulations: The site does not have shower facilities. Certain dog breeds listed in the Dangerous Dogs Act are not accepted
Pets
Potable water
from 
£24
 / night
Alciston Court Farm

16. Alciston Court Farm

95%
(38)
30km from Hastings · 5 units
A back-to-basics campsite that’s well located at the foot of the South Downs
Pets
Campfires
from 
£30
 / night
Downsview Vineyard

17. Downsview Vineyard

100%
(55)
33km from Hastings · 5 units
Simple but sophisticated, adults-only bell tent camping on a tiny vineyard with distant views of the South Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£125
 / night
The Hare lodge

18. The Hare lodge

100%
(11)
34km from Hastings · 2 units
Luxury safari tent glamping on a rural Kent farm within walking distance of the local vineyards yet speedily reached from London
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£233
 / night
Far and Away Camping

19. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
35km from Hastings · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
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!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Glamping @ Rankins Farm

20. Glamping @ Rankins Farm

100%
(38)
38km from Hastings · 6 units
Family-friendly pod glamping beside a 30-year-old plum orchard, with far-reaching views across the Kent countryside
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£120
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites near Hastings guide

Where to go

High Weald

Wildflower meadows, farmlands, and woodlands stretch north of Hastings in the High Weald AONB. Escape the crowds for scenic walks or bike rides through the hills, admire the seasonal blooms at National Trust gardens, or go glamping in a tipi or bell tent. Over the Kent border, take a ride on the Spa Valley Railway, visit the market town of Royal Tunbridge Wells, or sample Kent wines at a local vineyard.

Kent Coast

East of Hastings, rocky coves and soaring sea cliffs give way to sandy beaches along the Kent coast. The White Cliffs of Dover draw the biggest crowds, but charming Folkestone is a favorite among coastal campers, with its pretty marina and burgeoning art scene. Nearby, the Romney marshes are a breeding ground for birds and other wildlife.

East Sussex Coast

To the west, Eastbourne and Brighton are two of the most popular destinations along the south coast. Check into a coastal campsite within easy reach of the beach and spend your days swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding along the shore. Just past Eastbourne, the lighthouse of Beachy Head and the white chalk sea cliffs of the Seven Sisters lie within the South Downs National Park, where hikers can set out along the South Downs Way.

When to go

June through August draws beach-goers to Hastings, which is the liveliest time to visit, with festivals and alfresco concerts taking place throughout. Reserve camping sites and holiday parks a few months in advance if visiting at this time. Temperatures are mild along the Channel coast, making it possible to explore by campervan or caravan year-round.

Know before you go

  • Hastings has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up everything you need for your camping trip. 
  • Hastings has excellent public transport links to the surrounding towns and AONBs, making it possible to get around without your own transport.
  • Wild camping is illegal throughout Hastings and the UK, although there are some areas where it is possible with permission from the landowners.