Shepherd's huts near Newhaven

·

Perched at the mouth of the River Ouse and the English Channel, most visitors come to Newhaven to catch the ferry to Normandy in France. The port town is worth more than stopover, though. It’s strategically located for exploring the coast and the surrounding AONBs, has plenty of options for campers and caravanners, plus far fewer crowds than nearby Brighton. Start your explorations at Newhaven Fort, then follow the heritage trail around Paradise Park, take a scenic cruise along the river, or cool off with a swim at the sandy beach.

99% (297) 47 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Newhaven

Hale Farm

1. Hale Farm

100%
(152)
17km from Newhaven · 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

2. Dernwood Farm Camping & Glamping

95%
(65)
19km from Newhaven · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Foot of the Downs

3. Foot of the Downs

100%
(25)
25km from Newhaven · 3 units
Glamping on a family farm in Sussex, just off the South Downs Way and not far from Brighton
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£117
 / night
Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

4. Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

97%
(122)
39km from Newhaven · 36 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Friendly camping and glamping on a Sussex farm, with animals to meet, a pond to swim in, and the South Downs nearby.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

5. Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

100%
(20)
47km from Newhaven · 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
Quaint Farm in a National Park

6. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%
(26)
65km from Newhaven · 2 units
Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way.​ Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£125
 / night
Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

7. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%
(14)
69km from Newhaven · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are a small, friendly site on a working farm in the beautiful South Downs National Park. We have shepherds huts, bell tents and a land pod in an old sheep paddock, all with private fire pits. We’re surrounded by footpaths and bridleways that can be explored all day, and 10 minutes drive from the sea. We also have a small grass-pitch campsite that opens in the summer for tents and camper vans.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£32
 / night
Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

8. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

100%
(34)
70km from Newhaven · 1 unit
The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer. The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay. The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries. Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos. Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable. Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink. The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£108
 / night
Greenhill Glamping

9. Greenhill Glamping

100%
(31)
90km from Newhaven · 2 units
Impeccably restored huts from the late 19th-century, kitted out for couples with king-sized beds, wood-burning stoves and views over the Kent Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£160
 / night
Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

10. Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

95%
(104)
91km from Newhaven · 41 units · Tents, Glamping
Pitches, bell tents and a gypsy caravan on the outskirts of Canterbury
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£11
 / night
Rolling Fields Glamping

11. Rolling Fields Glamping

100%
(35)
119km from Newhaven · 6 units
Luxury farm glamping with epic views, a 10-minute walk from the Thames
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£100
 / night
Little Fleece at Folly Farm

12. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%
(60)
127km from Newhaven · 1 unit
A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£152
 / night
Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

13. Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

100%
(21)
127km from Newhaven · 2 units
Secluded, peaceful glamping on the edge of the New Forest
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£80
 / night
Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

14. Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

90%
(20)
128km from Newhaven · 3 units
Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£128
 / night
Hendred Farm Huts

15. Hendred Farm Huts

99%
(37)
132km from Newhaven · 4 units
Shepherd’s huts in pretty parkland in the Oxfordshire countryside
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£96
 / night
Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

16. Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

100%
(21)
134km from Newhaven · 2 units
Luxury shepherds huts near the Essex coast, with beautiful, watery surroundings and a wonderfully private setting
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£130
 / night
Farrs Meadow

17. Farrs Meadow

96%
(141)
145km from Newhaven · 31 units · Tents, Glamping
A charming Dorset campsite overlooking the Stour Valley and a short walk from both the river and the market town of Wimborne Minster
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Marshwood Farm Camping

18. Marshwood Farm Camping

100%
(53)
147km from Newhaven · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
Quiet, family-friendly camping and glamping on a farm in rolling Wiltshire countryside
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£12
 / night
Andrea's Farm Breaks Keepers Hut

19. Andrea's Farm Breaks Keepers Hut

100%
(12)
148km from Newhaven · 1 unit
Andrea's Farm Breaks is Keepers Hut glamping accommodation run alongside a working farm campsite in the heart of Purbeck. Andrea is pleased to offer a little luxury for those who want to camp at Downshay Farm in a comfortable bed. Farm is a working farm in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, ideally located for exploring the stunning World Heritage Site coastline. The Pike family has farmed here since 1956. The farmhouse is largely Victorian although parts of the house and some farm buildings are much older. The accommodation looks out over the lovely views of Corfe Castle and the Purbeck Hills. The seaside town of Swanage is just over 4 miles away as are the sandy beaches of Studland Bay. Local footpaths and Swanage Steam Railway also make exploring Purbeck easy, and we are a few minutes’ walk from Harmans Cross Station. Enjoy the sandy beaches of Shell Bay, Studland and Swanage or go rock pooling or fossil hunting at Kimmeridge Bay. The Coastal Path will take you along the coast to Durlston Country Park, Dancing Ledge and Winspit. The deserted village of Tyneham and its own bay is a short drive away, then follow the scenic road over the Ranges to Lulworth and Durdle Door. Local attractions include Monkey World and Bovington Tank Museum, and a walk through the RSPB bird sanctuary at Arne to Poole Harbour is recommended.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£100
 / night
Hastingford Fishery Glamping

20. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%
(8)
26km from Newhaven · 4 units
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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£99
 / night

Perched at the mouth of the River Ouse and the English Channel, most visitors come to Newhaven to catch the ferry to Normandy in France. The port town is worth more than stopover, though. It’s strategically located for exploring the coast and the surrounding AONBs, has plenty of options for campers and caravanners, plus far fewer crowds than nearby Brighton. Start your explorations at Newhaven Fort, then follow the heritage trail around Paradise Park, take a scenic cruise along the river, or cool off with a swim at the sandy beach.

99% (297) 47 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Newhaven

Hale Farm

1. Hale Farm

100%
(152)
17km from Newhaven · 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

2. Dernwood Farm Camping & Glamping

95%
(65)
19km from Newhaven · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Foot of the Downs

3. Foot of the Downs

100%
(25)
25km from Newhaven · 3 units
Glamping on a family farm in Sussex, just off the South Downs Way and not far from Brighton
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£117
 / night
Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

4. Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

97%
(122)
39km from Newhaven · 36 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Friendly camping and glamping on a Sussex farm, with animals to meet, a pond to swim in, and the South Downs nearby.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

5. Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

100%
(20)
47km from Newhaven · 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
Quaint Farm in a National Park

6. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%
(26)
65km from Newhaven · 2 units
Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way.​ Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£125
 / night
Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

7. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%
(14)
69km from Newhaven · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are a small, friendly site on a working farm in the beautiful South Downs National Park. We have shepherds huts, bell tents and a land pod in an old sheep paddock, all with private fire pits. We’re surrounded by footpaths and bridleways that can be explored all day, and 10 minutes drive from the sea. We also have a small grass-pitch campsite that opens in the summer for tents and camper vans.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£32
 / night
Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

8. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

100%
(34)
70km from Newhaven · 1 unit
The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer. The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay. The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries. Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos. Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable. Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink. The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£108
 / night
Greenhill Glamping

9. Greenhill Glamping

100%
(31)
90km from Newhaven · 2 units
Impeccably restored huts from the late 19th-century, kitted out for couples with king-sized beds, wood-burning stoves and views over the Kent Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£160
 / night
Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

10. Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

95%
(104)
91km from Newhaven · 41 units · Tents, Glamping
Pitches, bell tents and a gypsy caravan on the outskirts of Canterbury
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£11
 / night
Rolling Fields Glamping

11. Rolling Fields Glamping

100%
(35)
119km from Newhaven · 6 units
Luxury farm glamping with epic views, a 10-minute walk from the Thames
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£100
 / night
Little Fleece at Folly Farm

12. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%
(60)
127km from Newhaven · 1 unit
A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£152
 / night
Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

13. Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

100%
(21)
127km from Newhaven · 2 units
Secluded, peaceful glamping on the edge of the New Forest
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£80
 / night
Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

14. Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

90%
(20)
128km from Newhaven · 3 units
Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£128
 / night
Hendred Farm Huts

15. Hendred Farm Huts

99%
(37)
132km from Newhaven · 4 units
Shepherd’s huts in pretty parkland in the Oxfordshire countryside
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£96
 / night
Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

16. Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

100%
(21)
134km from Newhaven · 2 units
Luxury shepherds huts near the Essex coast, with beautiful, watery surroundings and a wonderfully private setting
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£130
 / night
Farrs Meadow

17. Farrs Meadow

96%
(141)
145km from Newhaven · 31 units · Tents, Glamping
A charming Dorset campsite overlooking the Stour Valley and a short walk from both the river and the market town of Wimborne Minster
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Marshwood Farm Camping

18. Marshwood Farm Camping

100%
(53)
147km from Newhaven · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
Quiet, family-friendly camping and glamping on a farm in rolling Wiltshire countryside
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£12
 / night
Andrea's Farm Breaks Keepers Hut

19. Andrea's Farm Breaks Keepers Hut

100%
(12)
148km from Newhaven · 1 unit
Andrea's Farm Breaks is Keepers Hut glamping accommodation run alongside a working farm campsite in the heart of Purbeck. Andrea is pleased to offer a little luxury for those who want to camp at Downshay Farm in a comfortable bed. Farm is a working farm in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, ideally located for exploring the stunning World Heritage Site coastline. The Pike family has farmed here since 1956. The farmhouse is largely Victorian although parts of the house and some farm buildings are much older. The accommodation looks out over the lovely views of Corfe Castle and the Purbeck Hills. The seaside town of Swanage is just over 4 miles away as are the sandy beaches of Studland Bay. Local footpaths and Swanage Steam Railway also make exploring Purbeck easy, and we are a few minutes’ walk from Harmans Cross Station. Enjoy the sandy beaches of Shell Bay, Studland and Swanage or go rock pooling or fossil hunting at Kimmeridge Bay. The Coastal Path will take you along the coast to Durlston Country Park, Dancing Ledge and Winspit. The deserted village of Tyneham and its own bay is a short drive away, then follow the scenic road over the Ranges to Lulworth and Durdle Door. Local attractions include Monkey World and Bovington Tank Museum, and a walk through the RSPB bird sanctuary at Arne to Poole Harbour is recommended.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£100
 / night
Hastingford Fishery Glamping

20. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%
(8)
26km from Newhaven · 4 units
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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£99
 / night

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Shepherd's huts near Newhaven guide

Where to go

Sussex Coast

Neighboring Brighton is just a 30-minute drive, famous for its street art, shopping boutiques, and LGBTQ community—sampling the nightlife is a must. East of Newhaven, head to Eastbourne to swim, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard along the long sandy beach, or visit Hastings to explore the medieval castle ruins right by the seafront. Summer is the most popular time for seaside camping, or visit out of season to enjoy scenic strolls with the beach all to yourself. 

High Weald

Less than an hour’s drive north, the High Weald AONB is home to some of Kent’s most magnificent landscapes. Stroll through bluebell woods and wildflower valleys, picnic in National Trust gardens, or sample Kent wine at local vineyards. For a change of pace, time your visit to Royal Tunbridge Wells for market day, then hop aboard for a ride on the Spa Valley steam railway.

South Downs

The vast chalklands of the South Downs AONB encircle Newhaven, providing access to miles of hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails. Hike part of the 101-mile South Downs Way national trail, pitch your tent at backcountry campsites, or paddle along the Cuckmere river in a kayak. Along the coast, head to Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, where the towering white chalk sea cliffs are a jaw-dropping sight.

When to go

Passenger ferries run from Newhaven to Dieppe in France from May-September, and the busiest months are July and August, when the port fills up with ferry passengers. To avoid the crowds, come in spring or autumn—the perfect time for hiking among the wildflowers or admiring the fall foliage in the South Downs. 

Know before you go

  • Newhaven has a couple of shops where you can pick up camping supplies, but nearby Brighton (a 20-minute drive) has a larger choice. 
  • Newhaven has public transport links to many of the surrounding towns and AONBs, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
  • Most campsites require advance booking, and many ask for the full payment up-front. Be sure to check opening dates, as some campsites close in the winter months.
  • Wild camping is illegal throughout Sussex.

Popular Newhaven glamping styles