The best farm stays near London

·

Beyond London, it actually takes a surprisingly short amount of time before you can stumble across some of the UK's best campsites, hidden among woodland on the city’s edge or tucked in the rolling hills of the green belt. Take advantage of London’s transport network to discover outdoor opportunities both inside and outside the M25. Time-limited campers can jump on the tube in central London and be in Abbey Wood or Epping Forest within the hour, while hikers, bikers, and sightseers can take their time to discover the hills, farmland, and forests of London’s Green Belt. There’s plenty of camping accommodation to choose from too, from bring-your-own tent pitches in popular parks to private huts in hidden glens, and pet lovers are widely catered for with dog-friendly campsites commonly found across the area. Whether it's hopping on a train or getting in the car, you can still escape the city for a few days for a camping holiday to enjoy the best of the fresh air.

When it comes to camping near London, there's nothing we love more than a traditional night under canvas. Around London are loads of fantastic campsites where the focus is not on commercial caravanning and tarmac pitches but on the humble tent camper. Whether it's driving to the likes of Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, or Buckinghamshire, or getting a train out to the South Downs, Surrey, Sussex, or Kent, we're sure we'll have a campsite near London that's right for you.

A big part of the allure of camping near London is the convenience of being able to get in and out of the city easily while still feeling remote and cut off from the urban world. Whether it's a campsite in East Sussex or a caravan site in Berkshire, we’ve got plenty of spots with good train links to and from the city. If you really want to treat yourself, you could even hire a campervan from the city and take a roadtrip from the capital out to your chosen destination.

95% (1.6K) 559 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near London

Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%
(178)
122km from London · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£16
 / night
The Barn KT9

2. The Barn KT9

97%
(271)
23km from London · 22 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
The T Barn

3. The T Barn

99%
(90)
125km from London · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£29
 / night
Freshwinds Camping

4. Freshwinds Camping

86km from London · 15 units · Tents
Think this 'great outdoors' lark is all tangled-up tent and midge-repellant? Then Freshwinds is the spot for you.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£12
 / night
Chalky Downs

5. Chalky Downs

96%
(605)
73km from London · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£16
 / night
Cotswolds Glamping

6. Cotswolds Glamping

100%
(6)
111km from London · 4 units · Glamping
Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£96
 / night
Sleep Wild

7. Sleep Wild

100%
(20)
108km from London · 2 units · Glamping
Curvy cabins with hot tubs on an expansive farm in the Oxfordshire countryside
Pets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
£151
 / night
Abbey Home Farm

8. Abbey Home Farm

94%
(218)
127km from London · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£9
 / night
Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

9. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%
(1)
69km from London · 1 unit · Glamping
Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£102
 / night
Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

10. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%
(13)
66km from London · 3 units · Glamping
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
Jubilee Camping

11. Jubilee Camping

96%
(98)
136km from London · 51 units · Tents
Simple tent camping in the farming village of Damerham with fine views and easy access to the New Forest National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£24
 / night
Quaint Farm in a National Park

12. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%
(26)
70km from London · 2 units · Glamping
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
The Pig Place Campsite

13. The Pig Place Campsite

92%
(93)
98km from London · 45 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Canal-side camping for adults on a rustic Oxfordshire pig farm
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£10
 / night
Little Fleece at Folly Farm

14. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%
(59)
82km from London · 1 unit · Glamping
A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£152
 / night
Hook Farm Campsite

15. Hook Farm Campsite

98%
(203)
48km from London · 18 units · Tents
Blissfully back-to-basics camping in the heart of the West Sussex High Weald
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Wild Camping in the Cotswolds

16. Wild Camping in the Cotswolds

100%
(57)
118km from London · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping with acres of space hired on an exclusive basis
Pets
Campfires
from 
£40
 / night
Teddy's Farm

17. Teddy's Farm

99%
(154)
128km from London · 95 units · Tents, Glamping
Family-friendly pop-up camping in the heart of the New Forest.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Woodlands Camping

18. Woodlands Camping

97%
(104)
84km from London · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£27
 / night
Dogwood Cottage Campsite

19. Dogwood Cottage Campsite

81%
(24)
80km from London · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Come and meet the chickens and ducks, friendly pygmy goats and miniature shetland pony Dino at Dogwood Camping, a gem in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. We are a small, friendly, family-run campsite set in the High Weald area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a perfect base from which to explore the beaches, castles, ancient woodlands and towns like Rye, Battle and Hastings. Dogwood is in the pretty village of Brede, and is walking distance from two fine country pubs. We are surrounded by stunning countryside where you can take your dog for a short stroll across the fields or go for a long romp through the woods and valleys. Or just sit and relax, listen to the birds and soak up the peace and quiet. We are fortunate to be in a 'dark sky' area, perfect for long, relaxing summer nights around the campfie, sipping hot chocolate, toasting marshmallows and spotting shooting stars! During the summer our site is a popular spot for families and campers visiting nearby Camber Sands sandy beach and year round we welcome all different types of campervan, motorhome and caravan. We look forward to welcome you to our little slice of paradise. Please note our strict 'no group' policy - we only accept single families, single couple and single campers. No more than 2 adults in any group, even on separate pitches. Please bring your acoustic guitar or similar but, as this is a quiet site, please no radios, stereos or videos unless you're using headphones. The birdsong here is incredible by the way! Very wet weather and winter – please note in the off-season, and if very wet, the camping field is closed to vehicles, replaced instead by semi-hardstanding areas or our summer car-park area. Facilities are open but please be prepared for the vagaries of the weather, leaves, puddles and mud. To change pitch please let us know asap so that we can try if possible to find you another. Apart from the car-park, pitches can get very muddy in prolonged, heavy rain. If you are not prepared for these eventualities please do not book.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Bellatent

20. Bellatent

100%
(3)
50km from London · 1 unit · Glamping
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night

Beyond London, it actually takes a surprisingly short amount of time before you can stumble across some of the UK's best campsites, hidden among woodland on the city’s edge or tucked in the rolling hills of the green belt. Take advantage of London’s transport network to discover outdoor opportunities both inside and outside the M25. Time-limited campers can jump on the tube in central London and be in Abbey Wood or Epping Forest within the hour, while hikers, bikers, and sightseers can take their time to discover the hills, farmland, and forests of London’s Green Belt. There’s plenty of camping accommodation to choose from too, from bring-your-own tent pitches in popular parks to private huts in hidden glens, and pet lovers are widely catered for with dog-friendly campsites commonly found across the area. Whether it's hopping on a train or getting in the car, you can still escape the city for a few days for a camping holiday to enjoy the best of the fresh air.

When it comes to camping near London, there's nothing we love more than a traditional night under canvas. Around London are loads of fantastic campsites where the focus is not on commercial caravanning and tarmac pitches but on the humble tent camper. Whether it's driving to the likes of Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, or Buckinghamshire, or getting a train out to the South Downs, Surrey, Sussex, or Kent, we're sure we'll have a campsite near London that's right for you.

A big part of the allure of camping near London is the convenience of being able to get in and out of the city easily while still feeling remote and cut off from the urban world. Whether it's a campsite in East Sussex or a caravan site in Berkshire, we’ve got plenty of spots with good train links to and from the city. If you really want to treat yourself, you could even hire a campervan from the city and take a roadtrip from the capital out to your chosen destination.

95% (1.6K) 559 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near London

Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%
(178)
122km from London · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£16
 / night
The Barn KT9

2. The Barn KT9

97%
(271)
23km from London · 22 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
The T Barn

3. The T Barn

99%
(90)
125km from London · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£29
 / night
Freshwinds Camping

4. Freshwinds Camping

86km from London · 15 units · Tents
Think this 'great outdoors' lark is all tangled-up tent and midge-repellant? Then Freshwinds is the spot for you.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£12
 / night
Chalky Downs

5. Chalky Downs

96%
(605)
73km from London · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£16
 / night
Cotswolds Glamping

6. Cotswolds Glamping

100%
(6)
111km from London · 4 units · Glamping
Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£96
 / night
Sleep Wild

7. Sleep Wild

100%
(20)
108km from London · 2 units · Glamping
Curvy cabins with hot tubs on an expansive farm in the Oxfordshire countryside
Pets
Showers
Hot Tub
from 
£151
 / night
Abbey Home Farm

8. Abbey Home Farm

94%
(218)
127km from London · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£9
 / night
Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

9. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%
(1)
69km from London · 1 unit · Glamping
Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£102
 / night
Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

10. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%
(13)
66km from London · 3 units · Glamping
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
Jubilee Camping

11. Jubilee Camping

96%
(98)
136km from London · 51 units · Tents
Simple tent camping in the farming village of Damerham with fine views and easy access to the New Forest National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£24
 / night
Quaint Farm in a National Park

12. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%
(26)
70km from London · 2 units · Glamping
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
The Pig Place Campsite

13. The Pig Place Campsite

92%
(93)
98km from London · 45 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Canal-side camping for adults on a rustic Oxfordshire pig farm
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£10
 / night
Little Fleece at Folly Farm

14. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%
(59)
82km from London · 1 unit · Glamping
A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£152
 / night
Hook Farm Campsite

15. Hook Farm Campsite

98%
(203)
48km from London · 18 units · Tents
Blissfully back-to-basics camping in the heart of the West Sussex High Weald
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Wild Camping in the Cotswolds

16. Wild Camping in the Cotswolds

100%
(57)
118km from London · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping with acres of space hired on an exclusive basis
Pets
Campfires
from 
£40
 / night
Teddy's Farm

17. Teddy's Farm

99%
(154)
128km from London · 95 units · Tents, Glamping
Family-friendly pop-up camping in the heart of the New Forest.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Woodlands Camping

18. Woodlands Camping

97%
(104)
84km from London · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£27
 / night
Dogwood Cottage Campsite

19. Dogwood Cottage Campsite

81%
(24)
80km from London · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Come and meet the chickens and ducks, friendly pygmy goats and miniature shetland pony Dino at Dogwood Camping, a gem in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. We are a small, friendly, family-run campsite set in the High Weald area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a perfect base from which to explore the beaches, castles, ancient woodlands and towns like Rye, Battle and Hastings. Dogwood is in the pretty village of Brede, and is walking distance from two fine country pubs. We are surrounded by stunning countryside where you can take your dog for a short stroll across the fields or go for a long romp through the woods and valleys. Or just sit and relax, listen to the birds and soak up the peace and quiet. We are fortunate to be in a 'dark sky' area, perfect for long, relaxing summer nights around the campfie, sipping hot chocolate, toasting marshmallows and spotting shooting stars! During the summer our site is a popular spot for families and campers visiting nearby Camber Sands sandy beach and year round we welcome all different types of campervan, motorhome and caravan. We look forward to welcome you to our little slice of paradise. Please note our strict 'no group' policy - we only accept single families, single couple and single campers. No more than 2 adults in any group, even on separate pitches. Please bring your acoustic guitar or similar but, as this is a quiet site, please no radios, stereos or videos unless you're using headphones. The birdsong here is incredible by the way! Very wet weather and winter – please note in the off-season, and if very wet, the camping field is closed to vehicles, replaced instead by semi-hardstanding areas or our summer car-park area. Facilities are open but please be prepared for the vagaries of the weather, leaves, puddles and mud. To change pitch please let us know asap so that we can try if possible to find you another. Apart from the car-park, pitches can get very muddy in prolonged, heavy rain. If you are not prepared for these eventualities please do not book.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Bellatent

20. Bellatent

100%
(3)
50km from London · 1 unit · Glamping
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night

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

The best farm stays 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.