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- Ramsgate
The best campsites near Ramsgate with hot tub
97% (48) • 47 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ramsgate
The Nut Plat Retreat
1. The Nut Plat Retreat
93%
(73)
77km from Ramsgate · 3 units · Glamping
Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£88
/ night
Pigs in Blankets
2. Pigs in Blankets
96%
(70)
114km from Ramsgate · 26 units · Tents, Glamping
A campfire-friendly country campsite on a farm in walking distance of seaside Southwold
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£18
/ night
Luna Domes
3. Luna Domes
100%
(9)
92km from Ramsgate · 8 units · Glamping
High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England
Pets
Showers
Wifi
from
£192
/ night
Lee Wick Farm Cottages & Glamping
4. Lee Wick Farm Cottages & Glamping
56km from Ramsgate · 8 units · Glamping
We have a total of 20 cabins, 3 tent pitches and 3 pitches for touring caravans or motorhome.
Lee Wick Lane is a beautiful secluded location near the historic village of St. Osyth, with our nearest city being Colchester, a similarly historic roman city.
We are surrounded by fields and are really near the sea with the Colne Point Nature reserve on our doorstep.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£165
/ night
Dernwood Farm Wild Camping
5. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping
95%
(65)
95km from Ramsgate · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Wonderland Festival Retreat
6. Wonderland Festival Retreat
100%
(6)
128km from Ramsgate · 2 units · Glamping
Glamping by the lake with an optional sauna and hot tub
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£170
/ night
Freedom Farm Camping
7. Freedom Farm Camping
98%
(20)
113km from Ramsgate · 30 units · Tents
Eco permanent pasture farm with 12 mile views across the countryside in West Suffolk near Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds and Cambridge.
Say goodbye to the road whilst camping privately and securely in 70 acres of paddocks edged with post and rail fencing. Footpaths accessed directly from the site to explore further afield.
We produce most of our own food and have a herd of Dexter grass fed beef cows grazing. Beef and vegetables available for sale depending on the season and availability.
Camping hammocks also welcome in the wood.
We also have equestrian facilities including a manege and it is possible to bring a horse by arrangement in summer. We have a guide available for hacking locally and a resident BS qualified instructor. Please contact for details.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£25
/ night
Serenity Lakes
8. Serenity Lakes
100%
(5)
107km from Ramsgate · 3 units · Glamping
Cosy shepherd's huts with hot tubs, set alongside a tranquil fishing lake.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£126
/ night
Thompson Hall Retreat
9. Thompson Hall Retreat
96%
(25)
138km from Ramsgate · 6 units · Glamping
An adult-only shepherds hut retreat in the Norfolk Brecks, with a luxurious outdoor spa area.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£275
/ night
Glamp and Tipple
10. Glamp and Tipple
92%
(13)
138km from Ramsgate · 5 units · Glamping
Hotel-style glamping in Yurts on a Norfolk farm
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£200
/ night
Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs
11. Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs
100%
(15)
97km from Ramsgate · 4 units · Glamping
These super-sized, double-decker yurts on a charming East Sussex farm take glamping to another level.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£249
/ night
Canterbury Lodges and Glamping
12. Canterbury Lodges and Glamping
100%
(2)
19km from Ramsgate · 2 units · Glamping
Glamping with private facilities near Canterbury
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£85
/ night
Swaynes Pods
13. Swaynes Pods
100%
(6)
133km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
A glamping pod with en suite facilities and a hot tub, in the West Sussex countryside just an hour outside London.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£260
/ night
The Flower Belle
14. The Flower Belle
100%
(2)
84km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
Imagine having your very own private baby Lavender field on your doorstep?
Well now you can with our beautiful stargazer glamping accommodation
'The Flower Belle' with wood fired hot tub.
Situated on Benton End Flower farm in historic Hadleigh, The Flower Belle is a cross between a traditional belle tent and yurt, giving you the space you deserve.
The interior is beautiful and most importantly comfortable with a pretty double bed, beautiful linens, soft furnishings, wood burning stove, dressing table and clothes rail.
Outside are comfy seating areas, full size BBQ and tools, fire pit for your marshmallows, and a tantalising full size wood fired hot tub to soak away the evening sun!
The pretty solar lights light up the outside areas at night and there is also the clean and private eco loo just behind the accommodation.
Along with a lovingly converted pony trailer you step up into a full size kitchen with sink and mixer tap, double gas hob and small fridge perfect for your morning coffee and breakfasts.
At the rear of the pony box is a full size hot shower too! private and yours to use during your stay.
As The Flower Belle is situated on its very own field with baby lavender, you'll probably love flowers, which is good because we are an actual cut flower farm and in late August/September, the field in front of the lavender field is jam packed with dahlias and sunflowers!
Whilst you are here, why not join in one of our floral workshops?
Whether its a romantic break for two or two besties getting a well deserved trip away, you'll love The Flower Belle's relaxed atmosphere.
Situated in the town of historic Hadleigh, Suffolk, where there is endless things to do and see. Just 1.5 hours from London, 30 mins to the beach. 5 mins to a luxury spa, restaurants, pubs and independent shops galore.
We are very proud to be CERTIFIED by The Greener camping club. A compulsory membership of £12 is included in your booking rate.
Important: (As part of your booking you must pay a Greener Camping Club (GCC) annual membership fee of £12 per pitch which is included in your booking cost.
If your booking consists of more than one pitch please add another GCC membership as an extra to avoid a separate charge.)
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£154
/ night
Piggles Retreat
15. Piggles Retreat
140km from Ramsgate · 3 units · Glamping
Nestled discreetly on the outskirts of the iconic town of Cambridge, UK, a mere 25-minute drive away, lies the exquisite Piggles Retreat. Elevating the glamping experience to unparalleled heights, this enchanting haven caters to both families and couples seeking an unforgettable getaway.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature as you indulge in the comfort of up to three exclusive wooden cabins, thoughtfully designed to accommodate 1-4 persons each. For those seeking extra space to unwind with extended family, children, or friends, an inviting annex cabin awaits your arrival.
While preserving the essence of camping, each cabin boasts its own private bathroom, just a leisurely stroll away, ensuring convenience without compromising on authenticity.
These authentic cabin are a dream-come-true. Located in a private area, these homes are equipped with everything you'll need for a relaxing time away. In a great position near to Newmarket, a stay in our cosy cabins are sure to be one of the most memorable vacations you'll experience.
You can also have a relaxing boat ride on the lake.
As a self-catering cabins, you'll find everything you need for a perfect stay.
The kitchen areas have a fridge, a kettle, a freezer and a microwave.
Cutlery and plates etc are supplied.
The cabins are a perfect place to relax and offers a television.
There is one bedroom in the cabins which contains a double bed.
All bed linen is supplied.
Although the cabins are designed for 2 guests it can accommodate up to 4 guests for an additional £ 30.00 per night per guest.
There is a sofa bed and we can supply a put up bed if required.
The extra guests will have to bring their own bed linen or bring a sleeping bag.
There is a private luxury bathroom a short walk away which has a toilet and a walk-in shower.
Shampoo and soap is provided but please bring your own towels.
There are free parking on premises parking facilities available at the property.
Use Code 8SJVPVML for 20% off any unit this summer!
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from
£135
/ night
The Hut @ Bride Farm
16. The Hut @ Bride Farm
100%
(9)
8.2km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
A luxury octagonal hut with a wood-fired hot tub, close to Sandwich and the Kent coast
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£275
/ night
Wyldewood Retreat
17. Wyldewood Retreat
100%
(9)
90km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
An exclusive-hire glamping site for six people in a Sussex woodland
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£650
/ night
Jungle Cabin
18. Jungle Cabin
18km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
A high-end cabin with a hot tub in an exotic garden near the Kent coast
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£325
/ night
97% (48) • 47 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ramsgate
The Nut Plat Retreat
1. The Nut Plat Retreat
93%
(73)
77km from Ramsgate · 3 units · Glamping
Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£88
/ night
Pigs in Blankets
2. Pigs in Blankets
96%
(70)
114km from Ramsgate · 26 units · Tents, Glamping
A campfire-friendly country campsite on a farm in walking distance of seaside Southwold
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£18
/ night
Luna Domes
3. Luna Domes
100%
(9)
92km from Ramsgate · 8 units · Glamping
High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England
Pets
Showers
Wifi
from
£192
/ night
Lee Wick Farm Cottages & Glamping
4. Lee Wick Farm Cottages & Glamping
56km from Ramsgate · 8 units · Glamping
We have a total of 20 cabins, 3 tent pitches and 3 pitches for touring caravans or motorhome.
Lee Wick Lane is a beautiful secluded location near the historic village of St. Osyth, with our nearest city being Colchester, a similarly historic roman city.
We are surrounded by fields and are really near the sea with the Colne Point Nature reserve on our doorstep.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£165
/ night
Dernwood Farm Wild Camping
5. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping
95%
(65)
95km from Ramsgate · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
Wonderland Festival Retreat
6. Wonderland Festival Retreat
100%
(6)
128km from Ramsgate · 2 units · Glamping
Glamping by the lake with an optional sauna and hot tub
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£170
/ night
Freedom Farm Camping
7. Freedom Farm Camping
98%
(20)
113km from Ramsgate · 30 units · Tents
Eco permanent pasture farm with 12 mile views across the countryside in West Suffolk near Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds and Cambridge.
Say goodbye to the road whilst camping privately and securely in 70 acres of paddocks edged with post and rail fencing. Footpaths accessed directly from the site to explore further afield.
We produce most of our own food and have a herd of Dexter grass fed beef cows grazing. Beef and vegetables available for sale depending on the season and availability.
Camping hammocks also welcome in the wood.
We also have equestrian facilities including a manege and it is possible to bring a horse by arrangement in summer. We have a guide available for hacking locally and a resident BS qualified instructor. Please contact for details.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£25
/ night
Serenity Lakes
8. Serenity Lakes
100%
(5)
107km from Ramsgate · 3 units · Glamping
Cosy shepherd's huts with hot tubs, set alongside a tranquil fishing lake.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£126
/ night
Thompson Hall Retreat
9. Thompson Hall Retreat
96%
(25)
138km from Ramsgate · 6 units · Glamping
An adult-only shepherds hut retreat in the Norfolk Brecks, with a luxurious outdoor spa area.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£275
/ night
Glamp and Tipple
10. Glamp and Tipple
92%
(13)
138km from Ramsgate · 5 units · Glamping
Hotel-style glamping in Yurts on a Norfolk farm
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£200
/ night
Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs
11. Graywood Canvas Cottages & Hot Tubs
100%
(15)
97km from Ramsgate · 4 units · Glamping
These super-sized, double-decker yurts on a charming East Sussex farm take glamping to another level.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£249
/ night
Canterbury Lodges and Glamping
12. Canterbury Lodges and Glamping
100%
(2)
19km from Ramsgate · 2 units · Glamping
Glamping with private facilities near Canterbury
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£85
/ night
Swaynes Pods
13. Swaynes Pods
100%
(6)
133km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
A glamping pod with en suite facilities and a hot tub, in the West Sussex countryside just an hour outside London.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£260
/ night
The Flower Belle
14. The Flower Belle
100%
(2)
84km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
Imagine having your very own private baby Lavender field on your doorstep?
Well now you can with our beautiful stargazer glamping accommodation
'The Flower Belle' with wood fired hot tub.
Situated on Benton End Flower farm in historic Hadleigh, The Flower Belle is a cross between a traditional belle tent and yurt, giving you the space you deserve.
The interior is beautiful and most importantly comfortable with a pretty double bed, beautiful linens, soft furnishings, wood burning stove, dressing table and clothes rail.
Outside are comfy seating areas, full size BBQ and tools, fire pit for your marshmallows, and a tantalising full size wood fired hot tub to soak away the evening sun!
The pretty solar lights light up the outside areas at night and there is also the clean and private eco loo just behind the accommodation.
Along with a lovingly converted pony trailer you step up into a full size kitchen with sink and mixer tap, double gas hob and small fridge perfect for your morning coffee and breakfasts.
At the rear of the pony box is a full size hot shower too! private and yours to use during your stay.
As The Flower Belle is situated on its very own field with baby lavender, you'll probably love flowers, which is good because we are an actual cut flower farm and in late August/September, the field in front of the lavender field is jam packed with dahlias and sunflowers!
Whilst you are here, why not join in one of our floral workshops?
Whether its a romantic break for two or two besties getting a well deserved trip away, you'll love The Flower Belle's relaxed atmosphere.
Situated in the town of historic Hadleigh, Suffolk, where there is endless things to do and see. Just 1.5 hours from London, 30 mins to the beach. 5 mins to a luxury spa, restaurants, pubs and independent shops galore.
We are very proud to be CERTIFIED by The Greener camping club. A compulsory membership of £12 is included in your booking rate.
Important: (As part of your booking you must pay a Greener Camping Club (GCC) annual membership fee of £12 per pitch which is included in your booking cost.
If your booking consists of more than one pitch please add another GCC membership as an extra to avoid a separate charge.)
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£154
/ night
Piggles Retreat
15. Piggles Retreat
140km from Ramsgate · 3 units · Glamping
Nestled discreetly on the outskirts of the iconic town of Cambridge, UK, a mere 25-minute drive away, lies the exquisite Piggles Retreat. Elevating the glamping experience to unparalleled heights, this enchanting haven caters to both families and couples seeking an unforgettable getaway.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature as you indulge in the comfort of up to three exclusive wooden cabins, thoughtfully designed to accommodate 1-4 persons each. For those seeking extra space to unwind with extended family, children, or friends, an inviting annex cabin awaits your arrival.
While preserving the essence of camping, each cabin boasts its own private bathroom, just a leisurely stroll away, ensuring convenience without compromising on authenticity.
These authentic cabin are a dream-come-true. Located in a private area, these homes are equipped with everything you'll need for a relaxing time away. In a great position near to Newmarket, a stay in our cosy cabins are sure to be one of the most memorable vacations you'll experience.
You can also have a relaxing boat ride on the lake.
As a self-catering cabins, you'll find everything you need for a perfect stay.
The kitchen areas have a fridge, a kettle, a freezer and a microwave.
Cutlery and plates etc are supplied.
The cabins are a perfect place to relax and offers a television.
There is one bedroom in the cabins which contains a double bed.
All bed linen is supplied.
Although the cabins are designed for 2 guests it can accommodate up to 4 guests for an additional £ 30.00 per night per guest.
There is a sofa bed and we can supply a put up bed if required.
The extra guests will have to bring their own bed linen or bring a sleeping bag.
There is a private luxury bathroom a short walk away which has a toilet and a walk-in shower.
Shampoo and soap is provided but please bring your own towels.
There are free parking on premises parking facilities available at the property.
Use Code 8SJVPVML for 20% off any unit this summer!
Showers
Potable water
Cooking equipment
from
£135
/ night
The Hut @ Bride Farm
16. The Hut @ Bride Farm
100%
(9)
8.2km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
A luxury octagonal hut with a wood-fired hot tub, close to Sandwich and the Kent coast
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£275
/ night
Wyldewood Retreat
17. Wyldewood Retreat
100%
(9)
90km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
An exclusive-hire glamping site for six people in a Sussex woodland
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£650
/ night
Jungle Cabin
18. Jungle Cabin
18km from Ramsgate · 1 unit · Glamping
A high-end cabin with a hot tub in an exotic garden near the Kent coast
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£325
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Matt
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
The cabin was homely, warm and comfy. Plenty of logs provided for the burner. The hot tub is surrounded by trees and when the stars come out a lovely place to wallow. Nice country pub on doorstep. Would recommend.
See moree
erin
November 2025
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
Highly recommend, my partner and I had a great time at Finlay’s cabin. It was exactly what we were looking for in terms of: how remote & private it was, outdoor and indoor fire & the hot tub! We also loved the unique structure and authentic feel… however a few things to note, for the cost per night(£180) I would expect: body wash & shampoo / hairdryer, better kitchen essentials, the coffee left was almost empty for example and old stuff was left in the fridge& top shelf was left completely wet.. I know it’s ‘small’ things but for the price you’d expect these things to be attended to.. for us we didn’t mind too much, but would have made the experience a lot nicer to have these things to improve the overall feel and experience. Also I felt that in terms of cleanliness, it could have been cleaner, many cobwebs & spiders, hair and dirt in the bath tub, messy outdoor porch area; we wanted to use the outdoor bbq and had to clean it very well ourselves.. for the price you would expect it to be clean and ready to use with coals etc however we had to make do with the indoor logs with no fire starter as only option was the chemical indoor one which we didn’t want to use to cook food on.. making it difficult. The hotub area is lovely, however we wanted to use it at night which proved difficult as no outdoor lightning, and indoor torch didn’t work.. some lanterns outside would be a great addition. Duncan was a kind host and has a very special plot!
See more
D
David
November 2025
3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat
Such a beautiful spot, we took Ransoms for 3 nights. Everything we needed was ready for us, nice kitchen and a lovely hot tub. The host is very friendly and helpful. Don’t miss out on The Kentish Rifleman’s Pie and a Pint on Tuesdays and walks through Plaxtol, Igtham moat, and the green fields.
See more
C
Claire
October 2025
With kids
My son and I had an amazing time at Angela's Shepherds hut. It was so cosy and a lovely adventure for us. Having the hot tub made it even better. There was a heater, thank goodness 😁 and all the amenities we needed. Angela was so welcoming too. We will be going back.
See more
N
Niall
September 2025
Tent
With kids
We had an amazing stay at the wonderful Freedom Eco Farm. The location is really lovely, with distant views of rolling hills and mature trees - all to ourselves. What is especially great was Helena and Duncan’s relaxed and warm welcome and the ability to roam the tracks around their farm. The grass fed beef burgers were delicious and we’ll be back to try the swimming pond and sauna. Thanks, we loved our stay.
See more
B
Ben
September 2025
With kids
The shepherd hut was clean and very comfortable. The location was peaceful and we had some amazing sunsets and rises.
The wood fired hot tub was great as was the wood fire BBQ which was super easy to use and made the food taste great.
We had a fantastic 2 nights and can’t wait to go back.
See more
S
Simon
September 2025
Weekend Trip to The Flower Belle
Everything about our experience was great!
Jo is extremely friendly, welcoming and helpful and has created a relaxing retreat with superb facilities, location and views.
The Yurt is spacious, comfortable and stocked with everything you need to relax, The horse Box that has been converted into a shower and kitchen is top notch and well stocked!
The outdoor area with hot hub is bliss and we made full use of the BBQ as well.
Overall a fantastic experience and we will return.
See moreM
MARTYN
September 2025
Tent
Excellent private location. Very relaxing with good facilities.
See more
Claire
September 2025
Weekend Trip to The Flower Belle
We had a lovely stay. It was a beautiful spot and the hosts had provided many thoughtful touches. The hot tub was great. A very relaxing retreat - thank you!
See more
M
Matt
August 2025
With pets
Excellent weekend stay. Fantastic location for stunning walks around the area. Vineyards, pubs etc all within walking distance.
See more
A
Alicja
August 2025
2 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat
The Nut Plat retreat is great. We had a lovely time at the Bomford. Perfect relaxing break. Duncan is very nice and helpful. Bed is comfortable, shower is hot, there is everything you need. The Rifleman pub is a stones throw from the nuthatch, but unfortunately it was fully booked on Thursday, so it is worth to book a table in advance . Wood fired hot tub is a nice touch. Just have to be patient with it. Follow Duncan's instructions and you will get it very hot in less than two hours. Fire pit and all the trees around are lush. Even though you have neighbours around 100 meters away, it feels very private. Would definitely go back.
See moreC
Christopher
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
The farm is a great spot for camping. The facilities are very nice and the hosts are lovely. Would highly recommend.
See moreC
Claire
August 2025
Tent
Lovely big field, very flat, peaceful spot.
A bit of a long way to the bathrooms from the field but they were brand new and spotless.
See moreR
Ruaidhri
August 2025
3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat
We had a lovely time at the Bomford.
Perfect for anyone who wants a relaxing break.
See moreA
Anita
August 2025
With kids
Absolutely amazing retreat! We stayed at Finlays cabin, sadly for only couple of nights. Really lovely, peaceful, private wooden cabin. The owner just let us be! Reccomend to anybody who wants to get escape from daily life.
See more
Z
Zeeshan
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Beautiful land and sky.
Owners were really helpful and accommodating with the firewood and etc. Even gave some of younger ones a fun trip in their truck which they loved. Highly recommend.
See moreS
Silka
July 2025
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
We loved our stay at Nut Plat Retreat. Duncan was a lovely, welcoming host. We enjoyed watching the bats and listening to the owls from the hot tub in the evenings. Variety of walks nearby, and the river to dip your feet in.
See moreM
Miriam
July 2025
Tent
With kids
We absolutely loved camping here - beautiful farm setting, very peaceful at night. Our toddler enjoyed saying hello to the calves & horses, spotting dragonflies, and pottering in the wooded area! Helena and Duncan were very welcoming and helpful. The swimming pond is stunning - clear and very deep - and the sauna warmed us up before bed! Thank you for a lovely stay - hope to return for longer :)
See moreJ
Joel
July 2025
Tent
Group trip
Lovely campsite. Really peaceful, lots of space -- and a friendly dog!
See moreK
Katie
July 2025
Tent
Was lovely camp site with friendly staff. We used the sauna and pool which was so great as well
See more
The best campsites near Ramsgate with hot tub guide
Where to go
Kent Downs
With woodland campsites, glamping huts, view-laden caravan parks, and seasonal pop-up camps, the Kent Downs AONB makes a spectacular inland escape from Ramsgate (it’s under an hour away). The tranquil landscape flows from chalk ridges to ancient forests and Dover’s White Cliffs, covering 880 square kilometres. Walk some of the 250-km North Downs Way (once a pilgrimage route), go biking and horse riding, and pop into farm shops for Kentish goodies.
Along the Kent Coast
Spreading north and south from Ramsgate, the Kent coast is packed with beautifully positioned campsites, glamping spots, and holiday parks overlooking chalk cliffs and the English Channel. Explore bohemian Margate, buzzy Deal, arty Folkestone, wild Botany Bay, or weekend favourite Whitstable, then dive into the coastal walks and water sports.
High Weald AONB
An hour’s drive southwest of Ramsgate you’ll reach the High Weald AONB, a jewel among southern England’s protected natural spaces. Cobbled villages and chalk-dusted cliffs give way to 1,500 square km of undulating heathland, streams, and wildlife-rich forests, making it an idyllic area for camping and outdoor adventure. Kayaking, horse riding, hiking, cycling, and rock-climbing are big draws here, as is the literary heritage of Ashdown Forest.
South Downs
Sprawling between Winchester and Eastbourne (and about two hours’ drive from Ramsgate), the South Downs National Park rolls over 1,500 square km of classic southeastern countryside. Wonderful hikes run along the well-marked, long-distance South Downs Way, with views disappearing out to sea. You can pitch up everywhere from bell tents on working farms to beachside caravan parks.
When to go
Spring (March to May) is the best time to hike, camp and explore with trees in bloom and warmer weather, though there are no sunshine guarantees. Summer brings (generally) the warmest weather and beachy fun (with water sports and more), but also high-season crowds, especially on the coast. September and October can be a lovely time for quieter outdoor adventuring as the countryside shows off its autumn colours. Sidestep the crowds by avoiding bank holidays (especially in May and August) and travelling during the week.
Know before you go
- Ramsgate has excellent rail links with London (one to two hours), as well as buses and trains to/from Margate, Folkestone, Deal and other coastal towns. For the surrounding parks and forests, you’ll need your own wheels.
- There are plenty of supermarkets, specialised delis, and shops selling outdoors gear in Ramsgate, as well as cafes, pubs, and restaurants near the parks.
- Book all campsite slots and other accommodation well in advance, especially from May to September.
- Some protected nature reserves don’t permit camping, but often have reliable campsites nearby.