- Farm Stay Camping
The best farm stays near Portsmouth
97% (1.3K) • 583 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Portsmouth
Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping
1. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping
100%
(14)
13km from Portsmouth · 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
Glamping Retreat & Campsite
2. Glamping Retreat & Campsite
95%
(10)
14km from Portsmouth · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Retro Staycations near Ryde on the Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
£19
/ night
Lordington Park Camping
3. Lordington Park Camping
100%
(45)
15km from Portsmouth · 19 units
Set on glorious parkland in the middle of the South Downs National Park, Lordington Park really is a wonderful countryside escape. A 15 minutes’ drive from Chichester, our rustic camping field has views over rolling countryside. Spectacular sunsets and sunrises can be expected on cloudless days.
Escape the hustle and bustle of every day life in our peaceful rural campsite, with spacious grass pitches big enough for you to have lots of private space. Each pitch has a firepit for barbecues, and there is access to composting toilets, a shower block with warm water, and fresh drinking water. Please note there is no electricity on this simple site.
Vehicles are not allowed to park on the camping field, but parking is provided a stone’s throw away. Wheelbarrows are provided to help you get your kit from car to tent.
Countryside walks and cycle paths lead directly from your pitch. There are several pubs in the local area – the nearest being 10 minutes’ stroll away. We have a tea room on site, open Thursday - Sunday 10am-3pm.
Near by local attractions:
Goodwood
Weald and downland museum
West wittering beach
Hayling island
Portsmouth historic dockyard
Chichester festival theatre
Arundel castle
Cowdray park
Various national trust property’s
And many more…
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£30
/ night
Ninham Country Holidays
4. Ninham Country Holidays
100%
(38)
21km from Portsmouth · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A stunning, family-friendly campsite on the stunning, family-friendly Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from
£14
/ night
Woodlands Camping
5. Woodlands Camping
97%
(104)
26km from Portsmouth · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£27
/ night
Quaint Farm in a National Park
6. Quaint Farm in a National Park
100%
(26)
30km from Portsmouth · 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
Littleton Farm Campsite
7. Littleton Farm Campsite
94%
(27)
32km from Portsmouth · 20 units
Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive.
A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds.
There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park.
Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away.
In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire.
Please note, the site is dog free.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£17
/ night
Woodfire at Westerlands
8. Woodfire at Westerlands
99%
(51)
34km from Portsmouth · 22 units
A foodie campsite with outdoor feasts, set in the heart of the South Downs
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£22
/ night
Teddy's Farm
9. Teddy's Farm
99%
(154)
34km from Portsmouth · 95 units · Tents, Glamping
Family-friendly pop-up camping in the heart of the New Forest.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
ShelleyOaks Farm Camping New Forest
10. ShelleyOaks Farm Camping New Forest
100%
(42)
36km from Portsmouth · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Family-friendly camping on a Hampshire farm, edging the New Forest National Park.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£20
/ night
Muddycreek Farm (New Forest)
11. Muddycreek Farm (New Forest)
95%
(151)
37km from Portsmouth · 40 units
A 28 day August pop-up, offering traditional Hampshire camping on a New Forest Pony farm
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£15
/ night
Small Trees Campsite
12. Small Trees Campsite
97%
(38)
38km from Portsmouth · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, campfire-friendly and dog-friendly campsite with approachable hosts
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Little Thakeham Farm
13. Little Thakeham Farm
97%
(57)
47km from Portsmouth · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Almost wild camping in rural Sussex, with campfires, good footpaths and a pub within 15 minutes' walk
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£30
/ night
Cattlestone Farm Adult Only
14. Cattlestone Farm Adult Only
97%
(122)
48km from Portsmouth · 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
Harry's Field New Forest
15. Harry's Field New Forest
92%
(60)
49km from Portsmouth · 63 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family-friendly, traditional New Forest camping with a pub next door and footpaths leading directly from the gateway
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£32
/ night
Foot of the Downs
16. Foot of the Downs
100%
(25)
57km from Portsmouth · 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
Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge
17. Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge
90%
(20)
57km from Portsmouth · 3 units
Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£128
/ night
The Oaks Poultry Farm
18. The Oaks Poultry Farm
100%
(10)
70km from Portsmouth · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Family-friendly summer camping on an East Sussex farm
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£45
/ night
Chalky Downs
19. Chalky Downs
96%
(605)
70km from Portsmouth · 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
Marshwood Farm Camping
20. Marshwood Farm Camping
100%
(53)
71km from Portsmouth · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
Quiet, family-friendly camping and glamping on a farm in rolling Wiltshire countryside
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£12
/ night
97% (1.3K) • 583 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Portsmouth
Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping
1. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping
100%
(14)
13km from Portsmouth · 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
Glamping Retreat & Campsite
2. Glamping Retreat & Campsite
95%
(10)
14km from Portsmouth · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Retro Staycations near Ryde on the Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from
£19
/ night
Lordington Park Camping
3. Lordington Park Camping
100%
(45)
15km from Portsmouth · 19 units
Set on glorious parkland in the middle of the South Downs National Park, Lordington Park really is a wonderful countryside escape. A 15 minutes’ drive from Chichester, our rustic camping field has views over rolling countryside. Spectacular sunsets and sunrises can be expected on cloudless days.
Escape the hustle and bustle of every day life in our peaceful rural campsite, with spacious grass pitches big enough for you to have lots of private space. Each pitch has a firepit for barbecues, and there is access to composting toilets, a shower block with warm water, and fresh drinking water. Please note there is no electricity on this simple site.
Vehicles are not allowed to park on the camping field, but parking is provided a stone’s throw away. Wheelbarrows are provided to help you get your kit from car to tent.
Countryside walks and cycle paths lead directly from your pitch. There are several pubs in the local area – the nearest being 10 minutes’ stroll away. We have a tea room on site, open Thursday - Sunday 10am-3pm.
Near by local attractions:
Goodwood
Weald and downland museum
West wittering beach
Hayling island
Portsmouth historic dockyard
Chichester festival theatre
Arundel castle
Cowdray park
Various national trust property’s
And many more…
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£30
/ night
Ninham Country Holidays
4. Ninham Country Holidays
100%
(38)
21km from Portsmouth · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A stunning, family-friendly campsite on the stunning, family-friendly Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from
£14
/ night
Woodlands Camping
5. Woodlands Camping
97%
(104)
26km from Portsmouth · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£27
/ night
Quaint Farm in a National Park
6. Quaint Farm in a National Park
100%
(26)
30km from Portsmouth · 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
Littleton Farm Campsite
7. Littleton Farm Campsite
94%
(27)
32km from Portsmouth · 20 units
Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive.
A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds.
There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park.
Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away.
In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire.
Please note, the site is dog free.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£17
/ night
Woodfire at Westerlands
8. Woodfire at Westerlands
99%
(51)
34km from Portsmouth · 22 units
A foodie campsite with outdoor feasts, set in the heart of the South Downs
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£22
/ night
Teddy's Farm
9. Teddy's Farm
99%
(154)
34km from Portsmouth · 95 units · Tents, Glamping
Family-friendly pop-up camping in the heart of the New Forest.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
ShelleyOaks Farm Camping New Forest
10. ShelleyOaks Farm Camping New Forest
100%
(42)
36km from Portsmouth · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Family-friendly camping on a Hampshire farm, edging the New Forest National Park.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£20
/ night
Muddycreek Farm (New Forest)
11. Muddycreek Farm (New Forest)
95%
(151)
37km from Portsmouth · 40 units
A 28 day August pop-up, offering traditional Hampshire camping on a New Forest Pony farm
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£15
/ night
Small Trees Campsite
12. Small Trees Campsite
97%
(38)
38km from Portsmouth · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, campfire-friendly and dog-friendly campsite with approachable hosts
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Little Thakeham Farm
13. Little Thakeham Farm
97%
(57)
47km from Portsmouth · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Almost wild camping in rural Sussex, with campfires, good footpaths and a pub within 15 minutes' walk
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£30
/ night
Cattlestone Farm Adult Only
14. Cattlestone Farm Adult Only
97%
(122)
48km from Portsmouth · 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
Harry's Field New Forest
15. Harry's Field New Forest
92%
(60)
49km from Portsmouth · 63 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family-friendly, traditional New Forest camping with a pub next door and footpaths leading directly from the gateway
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£32
/ night
Foot of the Downs
16. Foot of the Downs
100%
(25)
57km from Portsmouth · 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
Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge
17. Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge
90%
(20)
57km from Portsmouth · 3 units
Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£128
/ night
The Oaks Poultry Farm
18. The Oaks Poultry Farm
100%
(10)
70km from Portsmouth · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Family-friendly summer camping on an East Sussex farm
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£45
/ night
Chalky Downs
19. Chalky Downs
96%
(605)
70km from Portsmouth · 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
Marshwood Farm Camping
20. Marshwood Farm Camping
100%
(53)
71km from Portsmouth · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
Quiet, family-friendly camping and glamping on a farm in rolling Wiltshire countryside
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£12
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
B
Batman
December 2025
Weekend Trip to Foot of the Downs
Me and my partner stayed at Skylark pod and it was very nice, lovely scenic getaway for our anniversary. The bed was comfy and the shower was very good. The only issue was there was quite a lot of dust cobwebs around so it wasn’t as clean as we expected. The sofa is also very uncomfortable. Would recommend though.
See more
A
Andy
October 2025
With kids
Really nice unit, cosy, but with all mod cons for a couple of nights.
Get the hot tub option, you will regret it otherwise!
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V
Victoria
October 2025
5 m Class B
What an amazing spot in nature! This was an incredible getaway, such a quiet and natural space with birds, surrounded by trees and the very nearby woodlands which are covered in mushrooms, more than we could count! It was so peaceful, we loved the natural space and eco-friendly touches. We definitely want to return again! It was magical!
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A
Abi
October 2025
5 m car
Really great site. Managed really well. Amazing spot in the woods and plenty of space between yourself and other campers.
Firepits are provided and you can buy wood for fires if you need.
There are some great walks nearby and plenty of stargazing!
Would really recommend this site. Had a really wonderful weekend here.
(There is a closing time of 7pm which is to be aware of and not being able to enter after that point so just something to be aware if traffic or travelling far after work.)
The toilets, eco and flushing, were really good. Didn't use the showers so cant say!
See moreC
Crystal
October 2025
With pets
We had a really lovely stay in the Bustard Hut. It was peaceful, quaint, and beautifully designed. The interior was unique and thoughtfully put together, and the hut had great facilities considering its limited kitchen space.
The little touches like the marshmallows, bread, and condiments were very much appreciated.
The only downsides were that the hut wasn’t quite as private as it appeared in the pictures, as we could see and be seen by the neighbouring hut from the hot tub, which wasn’t quite what we imagined. Also, there weren’t any trolleys available on arrival, so there was a lot of back and forth with bags since you can’t park next to the hut.
A few things that would be useful to have are some barbecue tools and maybe a fire mitt, as we had to use kitchen utensils to manage the fire. Overall, we had a lovely stay and really enjoyed the thoughtful touches throughout.
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S
Sabine
October 2025
With pets
We had the most amazing overnight stay at the Shepherd’s Hut with our three young children and our dog. Laura gave us the warmest welcome - she was so friendly, helpful, and made us feel completely at home right away. The hut itself was spotless, beautifully presented, and thoughtfully equipped with everything we could possibly need.
The kids absolutely loved exploring the surroundings, and it was such a safe, peaceful space for them to run around and enjoy the fresh air. Our dog was just as happy - plenty of room for walks and a truly pet-friendly atmosphere.
Evening by the firepit under the stars was magical, and waking up to the sound of birds and stunning countryside views was the perfect escape from everyday life.
Laura went above and beyond to make our stay special. We honestly didn’t want to leave!
See moreK
Katie
October 2025
Tent
With pets
We very much enjoyed the peace and quiet of the location. Rustic and basic, very much as advertised.
See more
P
Paul
September 2025
4 m Class B
With pets
Our host was very friendly and helpful. Facilities were fine, clean and tidy. You will probably need some ramps if you want to be completely level but wasn’t a problem for us.
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E
Emily
September 2025
1 night at Quaint Farm in a National Park
Matt met us on arrival and helped carry our bags to the The Shepherds Hut which is well fitted out , nicely decorated , lovely and clean, and well equipped. Nice hot shower and towel rail. Electric fire and also a log burner should you need it for the cold weather,The bed was so so comfy and the oat biscuits and eggs were delicious !!
All windows had lovely views.
Ivan & Sylvia S xxx
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E
Emily
September 2025
Tent
I loved the location and that their is loads of space to pitch your tent. It is really emmersed in nature, you wake up to the birds chirping and pheasants. I love that you can have a campfire and that they even supply the wood logs to you att a cost!
The evening sky was beautiful and the grass is lushes and green.
There are porta loos and sinks spaced out around the camping area with drinkable water but the showers are right near the car park, which is a bit of walk.
It rained when I was there but it didn't ruin my experience, it was quite nice being in my tent hearing the rain outside.
The cars are parked in the car park, once you have unloaded and set up.
I would definitely recommend Tania's place to stay.
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N
Nina
September 2025
Tent
Me and my partner stayed at Chalky downs for 2 nights for a little get away ✨. Sharen’s land is beautiful, everyone is so friendly and we even got to order a sausage bacon and egg bap with tea and coffee in the morning! ☀️. We went into Brighton town for a bit of shopping and to see the sea, only a 14 minute drive and we parked in the station car park 👏🏼. Would 100% recommend and will definitely be going back! Thank you so much. 🫶🏼
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L
Lewis
September 2025
Tent
The campsite/farm is beautiful, peaceful.
We even asked Catherine to stay longer.
Excellent facilities and a wonderful experience
Would recommend to all my friends and family
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R
Rosemarie
September 2025
Tent
We loved the setting, the camping field is surrounded by trees. We heard owls hooting at night. There is a small herd of fab Highland Cattle, a piggy wig and two cute goats.
Donna & Allen are very hospitable and the farm has been in Allen's family since the early 1800's.
We spent three days there in September...it was quiet and the perfect setting to relax and reset.
See moreS
Sally
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Quiet, sheltered and peaceful spot. Great location for using as a base to explore North Hampshire villages and walking trails. Was lovely in The Clearing - so much so we stayed on for an extra night! Facilities are rustic/simple (head torch needed to use the toilets day and night!) but they do the job as long as you’re prepared to get back to basics!
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D
Daniel
September 2025
4 m Class B
What a lovely campsite! Very peaceful and great facilities.
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N
Nuala
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Friendly and free tea in the morning! Very laid back atmosphere. Great for families.
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A
Andrew
August 2025
Tent
We stayed 2 nights over the Bank Holiday weekend. Great site. Local to the south coast with lots of places to visit.
Will definitely return.
Thank you
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C
Connie
August 2025
Tent
Lovely site. Lots of space between tents. Showers and loos are clean. Josie was very responsive and helpful. We missed their sun downers sadly. Next time.
We stayed an extra night we liked it so much.
You can hear the road sometimes, but we got used to that.
We’ll be back!
See moreJ
Jenny
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Camping feels less crowded and it was very peaceful. The compost toilets and showers were OK too. I like the tearoom which was a few minutes walk from the campsite which served very delicious food.
See moreH
Helen
August 2025
Tent
With pets
A beautiful and peaceful campsite. We loved the South Downs setting and appreciated the off lead dog paddock on site as well. It was also really nice to visit the nearby tearooms and enjoy wine and a cheeseboard in the evening. A super dog friendly site and well maintained facilities. We look forward visiting again in the future!
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The best farm stays near Portsmouth guide
Where to go
West Hampshire
The neighbouring port of Southampton is the gateway to the New Forest National Park. With its ancient forests, wildlife reserves, and wooded glades, it’s a paradise for campers. Choose from 5-star holiday parks with all the mod-cons, peaceful tent-only campsites surrounded by nature, or quirky glampsites hidden among the trees. All with access to the park’s network of walking, cycling, and horseback riding trails.
English Channel Coast
South coast beach resorts Brighton and Worthing are within day-trip distance of Portsmouth, but there are beach breaks right on the city’s doorstep too. Neighbouring Hayling Island is a family favourite windsurfing hotspot, with blue flag beaches and sandy shores. Bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts can also explore the Chichester Harbour AONB—take a boat cruise or bike tour for the best views.
South Downs
With more than 600 square miles of open countryside, the South Downs AONB provides plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds. Hike through rolling hills and river valleys along the South Downs Way, camp out at secluded backcountry campsites, and enjoy stargazing around a campfire. Don’t miss the twisted yew forest at Kingley Vale and the soaring white sea cliffs at the Seven Sisters.
Isle of Wight
Ferries from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight take less than 30 minutes, and England’s largest island has historic towns, beaches, and countryside all in easy reach. Explore nearly 500 miles of hiking and cycling trails, try windsurfing or parasailing along blue flag beaches, or visit the medieval Carisbrooke Castle. Camping on the island is just as fun—camp by the beachside, spend a night in a houseboat or vintage caravan, or time your visit for the annual Isle of Wight music festival.
When to go
Portsmouth is a year-round destination, whether attending a summer festival or browsing the Christmas markets in winter. July and August are busiest, with a steady flow of travellers arriving at the port, and it’s best to book ahead if visiting at this time. Each season has its highlight. Go hiking and wildlife-watching in the South Downs in spring, admire the fall foliage in the New Forest, or head to the beach in summer.
Know before you go
- Portsmouth has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip.
- Portsmouth has public transport links to many of the surrounding towns and attractions, 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 upfront. Be sure to check opening dates, as some campsites close in the winter months.
- Wild camping is illegal throughout Hampshire.