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Top camping destinations
Campsites near London guide
Where to go
Lea Valley
Home to the enormous Lee Valley Park, this urban-to-rural floodplain is popular among thrill seekers, thanks in part to its White Water Centre, built especially for the London 2012 Olympics. Several campsites dot the region, with accommodation options including (almost) wild camping, fully furnished cabins, and safari tents, plus motorhome and caravan parks. Most train stations connect to London’s Liverpool Street directly, offering countryside escape within 30 minutes.
Epping Forest
Just east of the River Lea, Epping Forest marks the spot that London blends into the home county of Essex. The forest’s paths are popular with ramblers and riders, while its wildlife-rich ponds are great for nature photographers. Camping is prohibited within the forest itself, but there are plenty of pitches nearby in spots like the Lee Valley Park. The forest is on the outer reaches of London’s Central Line, making it a destination for city dwellers as well as holidaymakers.
South London
If you’re keen to stay within the confines of the capital, the leafy suburbs of Abbey Wood and Crystal Palace both boast campsites with a London postcode. Whether you’re after a break from the city or a city break, conveniently located campsites offer caravan parking, tent pitches, and—in the case of Abbey Wood—some luxury pods with private bathroom facilities.
Surrey Hills
With Area of Natural Beauty status under an hour’s train ride from the capital, Surrey Hills and its many campsites serve as an ideal springboard for areas like Box Hill, Devil’s Punch Bowl, and Newlands Corner. Accommodation options range from simple tent pitches to exclusive glamping experiences.
Sussex
The home county of Sussex is a great spot within two hours’ reach of the capital. From the coastal towns of Worthing, Littlehampton, and the LGBTQ+ capital of Brighton to the ancient landscapes of the South Downs Way, this rural county is a great choice for campers in search of authentic British culture, with several farms providing back-to-basics tent camping.
When to go
The best time to explore London area camping spots is undoubtedly during spring and summer, when the grass is green and the days are long. Autumn brings its own charms too, as well as smaller crowds, while those who brave December’s chillier climes are rewarded with arguably one of the most beautiful city winters in the world. Not all campsites remain open year-round, so check ahead. If travelling with all your gear, avoid public transport during rush hour.
Know before you go
- When travelling beyond city limits, it’s worth booking your train ticket in advance for the best deals. Trains are spacious, so it’s generally no problem to travel with your camping gear (outside of rush hour).
- Some campsites offer on-site gear rentals or can point you in the right direction. Otherwise, you’ll need to bring your own or visit a camping shop such as Blacks, Millets, or Cotswold Outdoor.
- City explorers need an Oyster card, which provides access to all inner-city transport services. Purchase one at any tube station or newsagents displaying the Oyster sign, but know you won’t need this out in rural areas.