- Bournemouth
Dog-friendly glamping near Bournemouth
91% (518) • 340 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Bournemouth
The T Barn
1. The T Barn
99%
(90)
111km from Bournemouth · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£29
/ night
The Barn KT9
2. The Barn KT9
97%
(271)
127km from Bournemouth · 22 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£12
/ night
Cotswolds Glamping
3. Cotswolds Glamping
100%
(6)
145km from Bournemouth · 4 units · Glamping
Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£96
/ night
Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts
4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts
126km from Bournemouth · 2 units · Glamping
Our shepherd huts are designed with indulgent luxury in mind, you will sleep well, in a king size bed with high thread count cotton sheets covering goose down filled pillows and duvet. “Freddie" hut will enhance your connection with the great outdoors with a gorgeous skylight above your bed. By day a cascade of natural light, by evening framing a view of the stars. For those wintery nights snuggle in and de-stress in front of the wood burning stove with a brew or glass of Prosecco on us.
When you choose to rise listen to your Roberts radio in your fully equipped kitchen with premium appliances, enjoying breakfast on us with fresh milk, orange juice, cereals & a small loaf of local sourdough, fresh jams and of course a coffee made from your Nespresso.
Located down an old Roman road in an ancient village you will have far reaching views of the Oxfordshire countryside, a few minutes stroll away a fantastic community owned pub awaits, local pint or well earned GnT? Let us host you here at Restandretreats for that romantic break or just to escape, unwind and clear your mind.
Our location has the best of both worlds, your shepherd hut is located in an ancient Roman village in the Oxfordshire countryside, yet just 5 miles from the centre of Oxford with all its history and university colleges. If you choose you can compliment your stay with an indulgent shopping trip to Bicester Village premium outlet (11m) or Blenheim Palace (8m) with all its history and events on offer. Jeremy Clarksons Diddly squat farm (21m) and his new public house have also become popular with our guests. If walking or running is more your focus then why not explore the beautiful RSPB Otmoor bird reserve, a haven for wildlife with many visitor trials to enjoy, it’s merely a short walk away. Whatever your visit has in store our cosy pub, The Abingdon Arms, is waiting only 100metres walk away, offering fine ales and fine dining or perhaps just a take away pizza.
We do welcome our furry 🐕 friends, but NOT in our “Freddy” hut, please check out our other listing for our dog friendly “Edie” shepherd hut listed on Airbnb.
We can offer single nights Sunday through Thursday in the quieter months - please message us here or reach out to us at RestandRetreats and we will always see what we can do
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£150
/ night
Hollington Park Glamping
5. Hollington Park Glamping
95%
(11)
75km from Bournemouth · 6 units · Glamping
Pod and bell tent glamping in woodland on the edge of the North Wessex Downs
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£105
/ night
Glamping and Camping near Bath
6. Glamping and Camping near Bath
100%
(3)
77km from Bournemouth · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
Piccadilly Caravan and Camping Park is nestled in the countryside, just a ten minute walk from the historic National Trust village of Lacock. The site offers beautifully maintained grounds and welcomes tents and tourers with both non electric and electric grass and hardstanding pitches, along with a bell tent for glamping. Enjoy a taste of rural life, surrounded by country pubs, independent shops, walking routes and only five minutes from Lacock Abbey!
Showers
Potable water
Wifi
from
£26
/ night
Deer Barn Retreats
7. Deer Barn Retreats
94%
(33)
109km from Bournemouth · 3 units · Glamping
Dog-friendly glamping on the Somerset-Devon border
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£81
/ night
Pittaford Farm
8. Pittaford Farm
99%
(67)
137km from Bournemouth · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A campfire-friendly site in South Devon, with a beach, a nature reserve and a pub all less than 45 minutes' walk away
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£26
/ night
Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin
9. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin
100%
(1)
144km from Bournemouth · 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
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£102
/ night
Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
10. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
100%
(33)
78km from Bournemouth · 1 unit · Glamping
The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer.
The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay.
The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries.
Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos.
Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable.
Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink.
The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£108
/ night
Flowerdew Farm
11. Flowerdew Farm
100%
(18)
56km from Bournemouth · 23 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and camping with alpacas near Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£27
/ night
Luna Domes
12. Luna Domes
100%
(9)
148km from Bournemouth · 8 units · Glamping
High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England
Showers
Hot Tub
Wifi
from
£192
/ night
The Sunset Tree
13. The Sunset Tree
96%
(34)
122km from Bournemouth · 30 units · Tents, Glamping
A sociable, tents-only, pop-up campsite, with a good village pub and playground on the doorstep
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
from
£17
/ night
Teddy's Farm
14. Teddy's Farm
99%
(154)
22km from Bournemouth · 95 units · Tents, Glamping
Family-friendly pop-up camping in the heart of the New Forest.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£12
/ night
Tom's Field (New Forest)
15. Tom's Field (New Forest)
99%
(44)
24km from Bournemouth · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Small, family-run camping in the New Forest National Park, brought about by popular demand
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£35
/ night
Dernwood Farm Wild Camping
16. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping
95%
(65)
147km from Bournemouth · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£12
/ night
Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.
17. Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.
99%
(85)
123km from Bournemouth · 4 units · Glamping
Magical, secluded glamping in the Wye Valley, yards from the Offas Dyke trail
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£137
/ night
Berrends Farm
18. Berrends Farm
96%
(38)
143km from Bournemouth · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are in the 3 counties area, a short distance from the Malvern Hills. We have pitches for tents and caravans, and also a Shepherds Hut and an Annex.
We are a small working farm. We welcome our guests to enjoy our home. There are lots of local pubs and towns to visit and local attractions located nearby.
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Showers
from
£32
/ night
White House Glamping in Wye Valley
19. White House Glamping in Wye Valley
100%
(6)
145km from Bournemouth · 7 units · Glamping
Secluded tipi glamping in the Wye Valley set on a working, riverside, dairy farm
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£139
/ night
Tomkins Farm
20. Tomkins Farm
96%
(164)
133km from Bournemouth · 42 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Relaxed camping beside a lake on an East Sussex farm, with alpacas, llamas, and camels
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£18
/ night
91% (518) • 340 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Bournemouth
The T Barn
1. The T Barn
99%
(90)
111km from Bournemouth · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£29
/ night
The Barn KT9
2. The Barn KT9
97%
(271)
127km from Bournemouth · 22 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£12
/ night
Cotswolds Glamping
3. Cotswolds Glamping
100%
(6)
145km from Bournemouth · 4 units · Glamping
Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£96
/ night
Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts
4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts
126km from Bournemouth · 2 units · Glamping
Our shepherd huts are designed with indulgent luxury in mind, you will sleep well, in a king size bed with high thread count cotton sheets covering goose down filled pillows and duvet. “Freddie" hut will enhance your connection with the great outdoors with a gorgeous skylight above your bed. By day a cascade of natural light, by evening framing a view of the stars. For those wintery nights snuggle in and de-stress in front of the wood burning stove with a brew or glass of Prosecco on us.
When you choose to rise listen to your Roberts radio in your fully equipped kitchen with premium appliances, enjoying breakfast on us with fresh milk, orange juice, cereals & a small loaf of local sourdough, fresh jams and of course a coffee made from your Nespresso.
Located down an old Roman road in an ancient village you will have far reaching views of the Oxfordshire countryside, a few minutes stroll away a fantastic community owned pub awaits, local pint or well earned GnT? Let us host you here at Restandretreats for that romantic break or just to escape, unwind and clear your mind.
Our location has the best of both worlds, your shepherd hut is located in an ancient Roman village in the Oxfordshire countryside, yet just 5 miles from the centre of Oxford with all its history and university colleges. If you choose you can compliment your stay with an indulgent shopping trip to Bicester Village premium outlet (11m) or Blenheim Palace (8m) with all its history and events on offer. Jeremy Clarksons Diddly squat farm (21m) and his new public house have also become popular with our guests. If walking or running is more your focus then why not explore the beautiful RSPB Otmoor bird reserve, a haven for wildlife with many visitor trials to enjoy, it’s merely a short walk away. Whatever your visit has in store our cosy pub, The Abingdon Arms, is waiting only 100metres walk away, offering fine ales and fine dining or perhaps just a take away pizza.
We do welcome our furry 🐕 friends, but NOT in our “Freddy” hut, please check out our other listing for our dog friendly “Edie” shepherd hut listed on Airbnb.
We can offer single nights Sunday through Thursday in the quieter months - please message us here or reach out to us at RestandRetreats and we will always see what we can do
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£150
/ night
Hollington Park Glamping
5. Hollington Park Glamping
95%
(11)
75km from Bournemouth · 6 units · Glamping
Pod and bell tent glamping in woodland on the edge of the North Wessex Downs
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£105
/ night
Glamping and Camping near Bath
6. Glamping and Camping near Bath
100%
(3)
77km from Bournemouth · 15 units · Tents, Glamping
Piccadilly Caravan and Camping Park is nestled in the countryside, just a ten minute walk from the historic National Trust village of Lacock. The site offers beautifully maintained grounds and welcomes tents and tourers with both non electric and electric grass and hardstanding pitches, along with a bell tent for glamping. Enjoy a taste of rural life, surrounded by country pubs, independent shops, walking routes and only five minutes from Lacock Abbey!
Showers
Potable water
Wifi
from
£26
/ night
Deer Barn Retreats
7. Deer Barn Retreats
94%
(33)
109km from Bournemouth · 3 units · Glamping
Dog-friendly glamping on the Somerset-Devon border
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£81
/ night
Pittaford Farm
8. Pittaford Farm
99%
(67)
137km from Bournemouth · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A campfire-friendly site in South Devon, with a beach, a nature reserve and a pub all less than 45 minutes' walk away
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£26
/ night
Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin
9. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin
100%
(1)
144km from Bournemouth · 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
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£102
/ night
Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
10. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
100%
(33)
78km from Bournemouth · 1 unit · Glamping
The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer.
The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay.
The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries.
Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos.
Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable.
Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink.
The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£108
/ night
Flowerdew Farm
11. Flowerdew Farm
100%
(18)
56km from Bournemouth · 23 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and camping with alpacas near Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£27
/ night
Luna Domes
12. Luna Domes
100%
(9)
148km from Bournemouth · 8 units · Glamping
High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England
Showers
Hot Tub
Wifi
from
£192
/ night
The Sunset Tree
13. The Sunset Tree
96%
(34)
122km from Bournemouth · 30 units · Tents, Glamping
A sociable, tents-only, pop-up campsite, with a good village pub and playground on the doorstep
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
from
£17
/ night
Teddy's Farm
14. Teddy's Farm
99%
(154)
22km from Bournemouth · 95 units · Tents, Glamping
Family-friendly pop-up camping in the heart of the New Forest.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£12
/ night
Tom's Field (New Forest)
15. Tom's Field (New Forest)
99%
(44)
24km from Bournemouth · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Small, family-run camping in the New Forest National Park, brought about by popular demand
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£35
/ night
Dernwood Farm Wild Camping
16. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping
95%
(65)
147km from Bournemouth · 17 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£12
/ night
Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.
17. Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.
99%
(85)
123km from Bournemouth · 4 units · Glamping
Magical, secluded glamping in the Wye Valley, yards from the Offas Dyke trail
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£137
/ night
Berrends Farm
18. Berrends Farm
96%
(38)
143km from Bournemouth · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are in the 3 counties area, a short distance from the Malvern Hills. We have pitches for tents and caravans, and also a Shepherds Hut and an Annex.
We are a small working farm. We welcome our guests to enjoy our home. There are lots of local pubs and towns to visit and local attractions located nearby.
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Showers
from
£32
/ night
White House Glamping in Wye Valley
19. White House Glamping in Wye Valley
100%
(6)
145km from Bournemouth · 7 units · Glamping
Secluded tipi glamping in the Wye Valley set on a working, riverside, dairy farm
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£139
/ night
Tomkins Farm
20. Tomkins Farm
96%
(164)
133km from Bournemouth · 42 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Relaxed camping beside a lake on an East Sussex farm, with alpacas, llamas, and camels
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£18
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
c
charley
3 weeks ago
With pets
wow don't know where to start Sammy was so amazing it felt like home. gorgeous pwople. made us feel very welcome outstanding. wish didn't have to leave. hot tub was so amazing even in the cold Xmas nights. gorgeous. Sammy and Joanna have got everything to a t. just out standing and his brother was so great too.
See more
A
Alex
November 2025
2 nights at Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
We had a great stay! Would highly recommend.
Everything you need is there and the hut is so cosy and the beds super comfy. The views around are beautiful and it feels very secluded. Amazing walks straight from the hut! Thank you
See more
C
Chat
October 2025
2 nights at Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin
Went as a solo traveller, the location was quiet enough to feel secluded enough, the cabin was clean warm with modern comforts, nice local pubs and excellent walks would recommend
See more
R
Richard
October 2025
2 nights at Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
Off grid, basic and rustic shepards hut. Very relaxing, and comfortable,
Excellent communication from Alice on finding the feild and lots of good information about the local area.
Really enjoyed my time here.
See more
C
Carmen
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Berrends Farm
Just a wonderful place to stay!!! Stayed all over England and Scotland and this was my very favourite!!
See more
C
Christine
September 2025
With kids
My recent glamping trip in a bell tent was absolutely great, perfectly blending tranquil nature with a comfortable double bed; soft blankets and pillows and the spacious and thoughtfully decorated bell tent ready and waiting for us. We were able to immediately relax and enjoy our surroundings. It was the perfect escape for anyone who has had a long week at work and loves camping with a touch of luxury.
The sun was shinning and it was wonderful to lie hammock! I'm already looking forward to my next visit!
See more
J
Julian
September 2025
With pets
This was a super last-minute booking, despite knowing that it was going to be pretty wet all weekend. Despite the rain, this was a magical place and my son and I had a special time together. The rain maybe made it even more special.
Anna is lovely and very helpful and their dog spent quite a lot of time with us because he realised we would continue to throw a stick for it until we went to sleep. Which was bliss!
See more
Philippa
August 2025
With kids
Beautiful spot! I love that each plot has it's own BBQ and fire pit, this really made a difference to our stay. The games are a great touch and being able to walk to the cafe for a coffee and sausage roll in the morning was the icing on the cake. Honesty box for wood and coal, drinking water, clean (flushing!) toilets and showers, everything you could need. Can't wait to come back.
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P
Paul
August 2025
With pets
Would highly recommend , we stopped in the safari lodge and had the whole site to our selves kids and dog loved it . lodge was very clean and so was the shower and toilet facilities also has a kitchen what has everything you need if you do forget anything with an honesty box to leave the money in . We was lucky to have a clear night so seeing all the stars at night was amazing also spotted deers in the morning. Very pleased with our stay
See more
K
Kimberley
August 2025
With kids
Absolutely loved our time, both sally and Paul were lovely and super friendly. The spot was so peaceful and had a homely atmosphere, everyone we meet was very friendly. 100% going back!
See moreJ
Jon
August 2025
2 nights at Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views
The location felt magical, secluded and tranquil. The cabin and amenities were done really thoughtfully and the surrounding countryside is beautiful. I’ll be back for sure.
See moreA
Alexandra
August 2025
With pets
This place is fantastic. Beautiful location. Super, well designed glamping accommodation. Sam couldn't have been more helpful and friendly. Felt very well taken care of. We were upgraded to the Hayloft which was like being in Little House on the Prairie! Awesome.
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K
Kelvin
August 2025
With kids
Teddy was an amazing host, and was so helpful on every occasion. I thouroughly enjoyed cooking the lamb sausages made at the farm. Well deserving of any campsite awards they earn.
See moreB
Benjamin
August 2025
With kids
Great spot. Teddy and Mrs Teddy (sorry!) were incredibly welcoming and helpful.
Massive fields. Load of space. Good showers and toilets.
👍
See moreS
Simon
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Cotswolds Glamping
We had a fantastic weekend stay at the Glamping site. We stayed in The Hayloft which was a truly unique experience and one we absolutely loved! The views across the countryside were awesome and the hot tub to end the night in made it truly special aswell. The host made us both feel very welcome. Would highly recommend!
See more
K
Kamlesh
August 2025
Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9
Second time here. Fantastic place. Must try. Ever so helpful. Great access to Ashford Common.
See more
Hayley
August 2025
With pets
We absolutly would recommend a stay in the Yurt, it had everything we needed for the perfect stay. The location is ideal for a quiet, reflective break in nature. Listening to the owls and nightjars calls from the woods of an evening was a particular highlight. If you need a detox from the hectic world to relax and restore its the perfect space to do so.
The salad, steak and cheese hamper was amazing value, and the coffee and pancake stuff provided made us feel so welcome.
Thanks Anna, i am sure we will be back again, Hayley, Andy & Greta doggo 🐶
See moreV
Victoria
July 2025
1 night at The Barn KT9
We absolutely loved our stay at the Barn KT9. It really is a little slice of camping heaven. The bell tent was beautiful and very comfortable for our family. The shower and bathroom facilities were clean and the on site cafe is a lovely bonus with great coffee!
See moreA
Adrian
June 2025
With kids
This is an idyllic spot - the camp itself is well equipped, well run and private with stunning views. The surrounding area is beautiful and we even made a short hop to the beach at West Wittering.
See more
J
JJ
June 2025
With pets
Great place to get away from it all - just me and my dog. He loved exploring the land and was very excited. Really impressed that so much had been thought about - you literally only need to bring food and clothes (and a dog).
See more
Dog-friendly glamping near Bournemouth guide
Where to go
Isle of Purbeck
The rocky peninsula known as the Isle of Purbeck juts out south of Poole Harbour and is part of Dorset’s UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast. A hike along part of the South West Coast Path is the best way to discover the coast, passing landmarks such as the Durdle Door, Old Harry’s Rocks, and Kimmeridge Bay. Afterwards, ride the Swanage steam railway to Corfe Castle, stop at a country pub to sample Dorset’s local ale, or spot wildlife on a cruise to Brownsea Island.
East Dorset
Dorset’s rural landscapes are dotted with ancient woodlands, magnificent castles, and Victorian gardens. Picnic on the grounds of Highcliffe Castle, explore miles of hiking and cycling trails in the Cranborne Chase AONB, and camp on rural farms far from the crowds. Further north, the verdant Salisbury Plains are home to one of the UK’s most famous landmarks—the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge.
Hampshire
East of Bournemouth, the pretty coastal towns of Barton on Sea and Milford on Sea are popular destinations for summer campers, and lie on the southern edge of the New Forest National Park. Head into the park to enjoy woodland walks and scenic bike rides, stopping to explore traditional villages and dine at country pubs along the way. For a change of pace, ferries set sail to the Isle of Wight, where you can enjoy sea-cliff walks, blue flag beaches, and ocean-view camping.
When to go
Bournemouth’s coastal micro-climate has long been its unique selling point—the city has one of the warmest and driest climates in the UK. Beachgoers arrive en masse in peak season (July-August), but waters are often warm enough to swim in spring and autumn, which is the best time to avoid the crowds. Temperatures rarely drop below freezing even in winter and the city’s holiday festivities are worth a winter caravan trip.
Know before you go
- Bournemouth has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip.
- Bournemouth 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 in advance. Be sure to check opening dates, as some campsites close in the winter months.
- Wild camping is illegal throughout Dorset.