Beach camping near Gillingham

·

Set up your tent in Gillingham and wake to the scent of salt air—this spot puts you within reach of over 130 beachside campsites. You’ll find pitches close to sandy stretches and shingle coves, often just a stroll from the water. If you’re after simple comforts, most sites offer toilets, showers, and welcome pets. Horseback rides along the shore, wildlife-watching at dawn, and fishing off the rocks fill your days. Prices start as low as £11 a night, with the average around £120. Check out Chalky Downs (241 reviews), Otter Channel Campsite (83 reviews), or Housedean Farm Campsite (44 reviews) for tried-and-tested favourites. Don’t forget to bring a windbreak—coastal weather can turn quickly, and you’ll want a dry spot for your boots. Rubbish bins aren’t always on hand, so plan to leave no trace. Beach camping here means waking up to gulls and falling asleep to the sound of waves—no fuss, just the essentials and the sea.

97% (483) 63 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Gillingham

Chalky Downs

1. Chalky Downs

96%
(605)
75km from Gillingham · 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
Whitlingham Broad Campsite

2. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%
(164)
148km from Gillingham · 72 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£14
 / night
The Sunnyfield Campsite

3. The Sunnyfield Campsite

94%
(99)
40km from Gillingham · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£38
 / night
Firs Glamping

4. Firs Glamping

132km from Gillingham · 5 units · Glamping
Our small site of 5 spacious bell tents is the perfect spot for a romantic couples retreat, or a relaxed family holiday in this unspoilt village, just 4 miles from the coastal town of Southwold. Nestled between the stunning nature spots of Dunwich, RSPB Minsmere and the Norfolk Broads, you couldn’t be better placed to explore the peaceful Suffolk countryside. Just throw open the doors of your bell tent to enjoy a beautiful view of the rolling fields, right from the comfort of your luxurious double bed and goose down duvet.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£95
 / night
Dogwood Glamping

5. Dogwood Glamping

90%
(42)
48km from Gillingham · 4 units · Glamping
The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£95
 / night
Otter Channel Campsite

6. Otter Channel Campsite

95%
(159)
42km from Gillingham · 18 units · Tents
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Woodfire at Westerlands

7. Woodfire at Westerlands

99%
(51)
97km from Gillingham · 22 units · Tents
A foodie campsite with outdoor feasts, set in the heart of the South Downs
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£22
 / night
Housedean Farm Campsite

8. Housedean Farm Campsite

98%
(100)
71km from Gillingham · 3 units · Tents
Epic views of the South Downs, and a walker’s paradise, hidden sweetly on the South Downs Way
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£16
 / night
Ninham Country Holidays

9. Ninham Country Holidays

100%
(38)
147km from Gillingham · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A stunning, family-friendly campsite on the stunning, family-friendly Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Small Meadow Farm

10. Small Meadow Farm

100%
(18)
55km from Gillingham · 3 units · Tents, Motorhomes
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 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 £25/night per person 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 & info centre) 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.
Campfires
Showers
Picnic table
from 
£50
 / night
Fire and Feast Suffolk

11. Fire and Feast Suffolk

100%
(34)
119km from Gillingham · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Camping in the beautiful country of Suffolk, with a rustic dining experience like no other
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
Fox Wood Campsite - under the oaks

12. Fox Wood Campsite - under the oaks

98%
(48)
94km from Gillingham · 21 units · Tents, Glamping
Woodland camping with campfires in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£50
 / night
The Downs Stables Holidays

13. The Downs Stables Holidays

100%
(2)
88km from Gillingham · 2 units · Glamping
Modern glamping pods on a working racing stables in the South Downs
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£90
 / night
Ham Hideaway

14. Ham Hideaway

100%
(2)
54km from Gillingham · 5 units · Glamping
Glamping in the Kent countryside, close to the coast – with an optional butler catering service
Pets
Showers
Wifi
from 
£235
 / night
Toad Hall Lodges

15. Toad Hall Lodges

100%
(2)
130km from Gillingham · 5 units · Glamping
Chic timber lodges for cosy couples near Southwold, handy for exploring East Suffolk's quiet coast and heathland
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£100
 / night
Greenhill Glamping

16. Greenhill Glamping

100%
(31)
52km from Gillingham · 2 units · Glamping
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
The Orchard Wagon

17. The Orchard Wagon

100%
(2)
122km from Gillingham · 1 unit · Glamping
A true escape in the wild, our secluded Orchard Wagon is nestled in the corner of the apple orchard. Close to delightful beaches at Dunwich, Walberswick and Southwold, and a walk to the local pub. Perfect for those that want to get back to basics in nature, the wagon comfortably sleeps 2 people and includes a private bathroom, washing and kitchen cabin. The Orchard Wagon has a double bed (1.5m x 2m) with a smart little wood-burning stove to keep you toasty as you watch the stunning Suffolk sunsets. White Egyptian cotton sheets and towels provided. Cooking couldn’t be easier with the well-equipped cooking cabin next door or the barbeque on the stone terrace in front. Fire up the Chiminea to keep you warm as you eat al fresco. Take the stepping stone path up behind the wagon to find the washing shed with three separate rooms for washing up, showering, and the composting loo. Plenty of hot water and for those who like communing with nature try showering with the door open - it’s a lovely experience and what a view. This is camping in style!
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£113
 / night
Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

18. Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

100%
(21)
60km from Gillingham · 2 units · Glamping
Luxury shepherds huts near the Essex coast, with beautiful, watery surroundings and a wonderfully private setting
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£130
 / night
Skoolie Stays

19. Skoolie Stays

100%
(5)
85km from Gillingham · 1 unit · Glamping
A converted, characterful and cool all-American yellow school bus parked up near the South Downs
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£236
 / night
Hill Farm Suffolk

20. Hill Farm Suffolk

100%
(1)
109km from Gillingham · 6 units · Glamping
Bell tent glamping in the trees on a rural Suffolk farm
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£104
 / night

Set up your tent in Gillingham and wake to the scent of salt air—this spot puts you within reach of over 130 beachside campsites. You’ll find pitches close to sandy stretches and shingle coves, often just a stroll from the water. If you’re after simple comforts, most sites offer toilets, showers, and welcome pets. Horseback rides along the shore, wildlife-watching at dawn, and fishing off the rocks fill your days. Prices start as low as £11 a night, with the average around £120. Check out Chalky Downs (241 reviews), Otter Channel Campsite (83 reviews), or Housedean Farm Campsite (44 reviews) for tried-and-tested favourites. Don’t forget to bring a windbreak—coastal weather can turn quickly, and you’ll want a dry spot for your boots. Rubbish bins aren’t always on hand, so plan to leave no trace. Beach camping here means waking up to gulls and falling asleep to the sound of waves—no fuss, just the essentials and the sea.

97% (483) 63 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Gillingham

Chalky Downs

1. Chalky Downs

96%
(605)
75km from Gillingham · 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
Whitlingham Broad Campsite

2. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%
(164)
148km from Gillingham · 72 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£14
 / night
The Sunnyfield Campsite

3. The Sunnyfield Campsite

94%
(99)
40km from Gillingham · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£38
 / night
Firs Glamping

4. Firs Glamping

132km from Gillingham · 5 units · Glamping
Our small site of 5 spacious bell tents is the perfect spot for a romantic couples retreat, or a relaxed family holiday in this unspoilt village, just 4 miles from the coastal town of Southwold. Nestled between the stunning nature spots of Dunwich, RSPB Minsmere and the Norfolk Broads, you couldn’t be better placed to explore the peaceful Suffolk countryside. Just throw open the doors of your bell tent to enjoy a beautiful view of the rolling fields, right from the comfort of your luxurious double bed and goose down duvet.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£95
 / night
Dogwood Glamping

5. Dogwood Glamping

90%
(42)
48km from Gillingham · 4 units · Glamping
The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£95
 / night
Otter Channel Campsite

6. Otter Channel Campsite

95%
(159)
42km from Gillingham · 18 units · Tents
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night
Woodfire at Westerlands

7. Woodfire at Westerlands

99%
(51)
97km from Gillingham · 22 units · Tents
A foodie campsite with outdoor feasts, set in the heart of the South Downs
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£22
 / night
Housedean Farm Campsite

8. Housedean Farm Campsite

98%
(100)
71km from Gillingham · 3 units · Tents
Epic views of the South Downs, and a walker’s paradise, hidden sweetly on the South Downs Way
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£16
 / night
Ninham Country Holidays

9. Ninham Country Holidays

100%
(38)
147km from Gillingham · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A stunning, family-friendly campsite on the stunning, family-friendly Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Small Meadow Farm

10. Small Meadow Farm

100%
(18)
55km from Gillingham · 3 units · Tents, Motorhomes
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 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 £25/night per person 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 & info centre) 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.
Campfires
Showers
Picnic table
from 
£50
 / night
Fire and Feast Suffolk

11. Fire and Feast Suffolk

100%
(34)
119km from Gillingham · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Camping in the beautiful country of Suffolk, with a rustic dining experience like no other
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
Fox Wood Campsite - under the oaks

12. Fox Wood Campsite - under the oaks

98%
(48)
94km from Gillingham · 21 units · Tents, Glamping
Woodland camping with campfires in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£50
 / night
The Downs Stables Holidays

13. The Downs Stables Holidays

100%
(2)
88km from Gillingham · 2 units · Glamping
Modern glamping pods on a working racing stables in the South Downs
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£90
 / night
Ham Hideaway

14. Ham Hideaway

100%
(2)
54km from Gillingham · 5 units · Glamping
Glamping in the Kent countryside, close to the coast – with an optional butler catering service
Pets
Showers
Wifi
from 
£235
 / night
Toad Hall Lodges

15. Toad Hall Lodges

100%
(2)
130km from Gillingham · 5 units · Glamping
Chic timber lodges for cosy couples near Southwold, handy for exploring East Suffolk's quiet coast and heathland
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£100
 / night
Greenhill Glamping

16. Greenhill Glamping

100%
(31)
52km from Gillingham · 2 units · Glamping
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
The Orchard Wagon

17. The Orchard Wagon

100%
(2)
122km from Gillingham · 1 unit · Glamping
A true escape in the wild, our secluded Orchard Wagon is nestled in the corner of the apple orchard. Close to delightful beaches at Dunwich, Walberswick and Southwold, and a walk to the local pub. Perfect for those that want to get back to basics in nature, the wagon comfortably sleeps 2 people and includes a private bathroom, washing and kitchen cabin. The Orchard Wagon has a double bed (1.5m x 2m) with a smart little wood-burning stove to keep you toasty as you watch the stunning Suffolk sunsets. White Egyptian cotton sheets and towels provided. Cooking couldn’t be easier with the well-equipped cooking cabin next door or the barbeque on the stone terrace in front. Fire up the Chiminea to keep you warm as you eat al fresco. Take the stepping stone path up behind the wagon to find the washing shed with three separate rooms for washing up, showering, and the composting loo. Plenty of hot water and for those who like communing with nature try showering with the door open - it’s a lovely experience and what a view. This is camping in style!
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£113
 / night
Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

18. Unique Shepherds Huts on a Vineyard

100%
(21)
60km from Gillingham · 2 units · Glamping
Luxury shepherds huts near the Essex coast, with beautiful, watery surroundings and a wonderfully private setting
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from 
£130
 / night
Skoolie Stays

19. Skoolie Stays

100%
(5)
85km from Gillingham · 1 unit · Glamping
A converted, characterful and cool all-American yellow school bus parked up near the South Downs
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£236
 / night
Hill Farm Suffolk

20. Hill Farm Suffolk

100%
(1)
109km from Gillingham · 6 units · Glamping
Bell tent glamping in the trees on a rural Suffolk farm
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£104
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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