Campsites near Swindon

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While the crowds make a beeline for nearby Oxford and Bath, the Wiltshire market town of Swindon makes a strategic basecamp for in-the-know campers wanting to explore the region’s headline acts. Check into a quiet farm campsite or caravan park and enjoy easy access to the surrounding cities and AONBs. Browse the shops and markets in the Old Town, enjoy a picnic by the lakeside in Queens Park, or stroll around the woodlands and landscaped gardens of The Lawns. Swindon also lies along the Great West Way heritage trail, and a highlight is the Great Western Railway at STEAM Museum.

96% (2.1K) 1,262 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Swindon

Radcot Leisure on Thames

1. Radcot Leisure on Thames

89%
(305)
19km from Swindon · 50 units · Tents, Glamping
A Thames’ island campsite in the Oxfordshire countryside – with a lovely pub just over the bridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£30
 / night
Primrose Fields Campsite

2. Primrose Fields Campsite

97%
(204)
102km from Swindon · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Back-to-basics camping in a Dorset hay meadow
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Stockbridge View Campsite

3. Stockbridge View Campsite

93%
(89)
54km from Swindon · 62 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A simple campsite in the Test Valley, just a 15-minute walk from Stockbridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

48km from Swindon · 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
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£150
 / night
Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping

5. Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping

99%
(48)
62km from Swindon · 3 units · Glamping
Laid-back glamping near Evesham, overlooking Bredon Hill and the Malverns.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£65
 / night
Abbey Home Farm

6. Abbey Home Farm

94%
(218)
21km from Swindon · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£9
 / night
The Barn KT9

7. The Barn KT9

97%
(271)
105km from Swindon · 22 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Campsite 360°

8. Campsite 360°

100%
(6)
103km from Swindon · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Campsite 360° – Wild Freedom in the Black Mountains Tucked away in the untamed beauty of the Black Mountains, Campsite 360° is a true off-grid retreat for those seeking peace, space, and adventure. With panoramic views stretching to the horizon, this wild, solar-powered haven offers a rare escape from the noise and rush of modern life. Wake to the sound of birdsong, breathe crisp mountain air, and watch the sun spill across rolling hills and valleys. Whether you pitch a tent under a starlit sky, park up your campervan in a secluded spot, or simply spend your days exploring, Campsite 360° is all about reconnecting with nature – and yourself. Our land is more than a campsite – it’s a living landscape. You’ll find open meadows, sheltered hollows, and vantage points perfect for soaking up 360-degree views. There are no bright city lights here, just a canopy of stars at night and the distant silhouette of mountains by day. We welcome solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups looking for a space to gather, celebrate, or simply unwind. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the surrounding Black Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. If relaxation is your goal, pull up a chair, light a campfire, and let the world drift away. Facilities & Features: Spacious, unmarked pitches for tents and campervans Off-grid, solar-powered amenities Fresh air and no traffic noise – just nature Fire pits available (wood supplied on request) Pet-friendly – dogs welcome on leads Stunning views in every direction Why Choose Campsite 360°? This is camping as it’s meant to be – simple, peaceful, and in harmony with the land. Our focus is on providing space and freedom, not crowded plots and strict schedules. You’re free to choose your spot, wander the land, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of the natural world. If you’re looking for an authentic wild camping experience with the convenience of a welcoming base, you’ve found it. Come with an open mind, leave with a full heart.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
The T Barn

9. The T Barn

99%
(90)
21km from Swindon · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£29
 / night
Lepe Beach Campsite

10. Lepe Beach Campsite

89%
(149)
92km from Swindon · 20 units · Tents
Traditional tent camping with views of the Solent and Isle of Wight. Oh and did we mention it's only 150 yards from the beach!?
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£40
 / night
Digeddi Wildlife Camping

11. Digeddi Wildlife Camping

97%
(129)
110km from Swindon · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Riverside camping and glamping with canoes for hire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Buzzard Holt Hosting

12. Buzzard Holt Hosting

100%
(7)
73km from Swindon · 13 units · Glamping
Glamping with a mini outdoor spa on the edge of Stowe Park in Buckinghamshire
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£59
 / night
Little Eden Riverside Campsite

13. Little Eden Riverside Campsite

98%
(60)
87km from Swindon · 27 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A very warm welcome to our guests at Little Eden, a restful and relaxing, riverside campsite for tents and campervans with grass pitches. We’re in a great spot if you love fishing, kayaking, gorge walking, cycling, seasides, fossil hunting, wild swimming, fell running, bird watching, archaeology or even Viking history! We are 9 miles from the mystical Glastonbury Abbey and Tor and directly on a Sustrans 33 cycle path route. The River Brue runs alongside the campsite with damsel flies fluttering by and kingfishers darting back and forth. We are on the Somerset levels so the sunsets are amazing as well as night time stargazing. We have a private, wooden jetty where you can launch your own paddle board. It’s a perfect get away for campers and nature lovers. Bring your own raised BBQs and logs or buy firewood on site. A family run campsite around 30 miles south of Bristol on the banks of the River Brue, it has a relaxed vibe and we try to keep things simple and straight forward. It’s ideal for doing some day trips nearby, then lighting the BBQ and playing Frisbee (games box you are most welcome to use). Shower and toilet, drinking water, washing-up sink in garden kitchenette. Our big sister site is just 4 miles away, and the café bar at 'Wall Eden Farm' serves fantastic coffee, cake, and family-made Somerset cider. If looking for classic countryside pub meal The Duck at Burtle and The Bird at Westhay are local favourites, be sure to book! Burnham on Sea close by has great fish and chips, a sandy beach, a pier and promenade if you like salty fingers and sandy toes. *DIRECTIONS* Little Eden Adventures is on Goole Maps Postcode takes you within 200 meters of campsite, look for white house with flagpole on stone bridge over river. What3words master.musical.titles. Our grandmother and her 5 sisters grew up milking cattle on the land. It’s steeped in history and archaeology. Bring your fishing rod as there are bream and roach in the River Brue. The site is a dream for cyclists. Electric vehicle charging at Wall Eden Farm with a Farmshop stocked with essential supplies, Moonshine and sweet treats. Sorry no pets as livestock in neighbouring fields. Big Adventures and Little Moments Warmest Wishes, Team Little Eden
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£15
 / night
Hollington Park Glamping

14. Hollington Park Glamping

95%
(11)
37km from Swindon · 6 units · Glamping
Pod and bell tent glamping in woodland on the edge of the North Wessex Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£105
 / night
Frome Meadow Campsite

15. Frome Meadow Campsite

93%
(167)
102km from Swindon · 114 units · Tents
A magical riverside retreat near Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Walltree House Camping

16. Walltree House Camping

98%
(29)
64km from Swindon · 34 units · Tents, Glamping
Simple camping in the grounds of a farmhouse, with thrill-seeking activities in arm's reach
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Old Litten

17. Old Litten

99%
(60)
83km from Swindon · 1 unit · Tent
Nestled atop a serene hill, this idyllic field offers a perfect escape for campers. Blanketed in lush, green grass, the field stretches out under a vast, clear sky, providing panoramic views of the South Downs National Park. Wildflowers in vibrant hues dot the landscape. As the sun goes down, the sky transforms into a canvas of twinkling stars, untouched by city lights. This remote haven, far from the hustle and bustle, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£40
 / night
Cotswolds Glamping

18. Cotswolds Glamping

100%
(6)
54km from Swindon · 4 units · Glamping
Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£96
 / night
Penylan Cider Farm

19. Penylan Cider Farm

96%
(24)
86km from Swindon · 3 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pitches and tiny home glamping on a cider farm in Herefordshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Spring Hill Wild Camping

20. Spring Hill Wild Camping

97%
(86)
44km from Swindon · 15 units · Tents
Spring Hill Wild Camping is a camping site set in the beautiful Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne. Within easy walking distance of the two local pubs, the well stocked village shop and a pick-your-own fruit farm with cafe and play areas. The campsite aims to be a low impact, environmentally friendly site, providing only the basic necessities for camping; well maintained toilets and clean water. If you are looking for hot showers and a pool, this is not the campsite for you. If you are looking for beautiful views, countryside walks and open fires Spring Hill Wild Camping is the campsite for you.
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£10
 / night

While the crowds make a beeline for nearby Oxford and Bath, the Wiltshire market town of Swindon makes a strategic basecamp for in-the-know campers wanting to explore the region’s headline acts. Check into a quiet farm campsite or caravan park and enjoy easy access to the surrounding cities and AONBs. Browse the shops and markets in the Old Town, enjoy a picnic by the lakeside in Queens Park, or stroll around the woodlands and landscaped gardens of The Lawns. Swindon also lies along the Great West Way heritage trail, and a highlight is the Great Western Railway at STEAM Museum.

96% (2.1K) 1,262 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Swindon

Radcot Leisure on Thames

1. Radcot Leisure on Thames

89%
(305)
19km from Swindon · 50 units · Tents, Glamping
A Thames’ island campsite in the Oxfordshire countryside – with a lovely pub just over the bridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£30
 / night
Primrose Fields Campsite

2. Primrose Fields Campsite

97%
(204)
102km from Swindon · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Back-to-basics camping in a Dorset hay meadow
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Stockbridge View Campsite

3. Stockbridge View Campsite

93%
(89)
54km from Swindon · 62 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A simple campsite in the Test Valley, just a 15-minute walk from Stockbridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

48km from Swindon · 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
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£150
 / night
Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping

5. Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping

99%
(48)
62km from Swindon · 3 units · Glamping
Laid-back glamping near Evesham, overlooking Bredon Hill and the Malverns.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£65
 / night
Abbey Home Farm

6. Abbey Home Farm

94%
(218)
21km from Swindon · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£9
 / night
The Barn KT9

7. The Barn KT9

97%
(271)
105km from Swindon · 22 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Campsite 360°

8. Campsite 360°

100%
(6)
103km from Swindon · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Campsite 360° – Wild Freedom in the Black Mountains Tucked away in the untamed beauty of the Black Mountains, Campsite 360° is a true off-grid retreat for those seeking peace, space, and adventure. With panoramic views stretching to the horizon, this wild, solar-powered haven offers a rare escape from the noise and rush of modern life. Wake to the sound of birdsong, breathe crisp mountain air, and watch the sun spill across rolling hills and valleys. Whether you pitch a tent under a starlit sky, park up your campervan in a secluded spot, or simply spend your days exploring, Campsite 360° is all about reconnecting with nature – and yourself. Our land is more than a campsite – it’s a living landscape. You’ll find open meadows, sheltered hollows, and vantage points perfect for soaking up 360-degree views. There are no bright city lights here, just a canopy of stars at night and the distant silhouette of mountains by day. We welcome solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups looking for a space to gather, celebrate, or simply unwind. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the surrounding Black Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. If relaxation is your goal, pull up a chair, light a campfire, and let the world drift away. Facilities & Features: Spacious, unmarked pitches for tents and campervans Off-grid, solar-powered amenities Fresh air and no traffic noise – just nature Fire pits available (wood supplied on request) Pet-friendly – dogs welcome on leads Stunning views in every direction Why Choose Campsite 360°? This is camping as it’s meant to be – simple, peaceful, and in harmony with the land. Our focus is on providing space and freedom, not crowded plots and strict schedules. You’re free to choose your spot, wander the land, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of the natural world. If you’re looking for an authentic wild camping experience with the convenience of a welcoming base, you’ve found it. Come with an open mind, leave with a full heart.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£20
 / night
The T Barn

9. The T Barn

99%
(90)
21km from Swindon · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£29
 / night
Lepe Beach Campsite

10. Lepe Beach Campsite

89%
(149)
92km from Swindon · 20 units · Tents
Traditional tent camping with views of the Solent and Isle of Wight. Oh and did we mention it's only 150 yards from the beach!?
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£40
 / night
Digeddi Wildlife Camping

11. Digeddi Wildlife Camping

97%
(129)
110km from Swindon · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Riverside camping and glamping with canoes for hire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Buzzard Holt Hosting

12. Buzzard Holt Hosting

100%
(7)
73km from Swindon · 13 units · Glamping
Glamping with a mini outdoor spa on the edge of Stowe Park in Buckinghamshire
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£59
 / night
Little Eden Riverside Campsite

13. Little Eden Riverside Campsite

98%
(60)
87km from Swindon · 27 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A very warm welcome to our guests at Little Eden, a restful and relaxing, riverside campsite for tents and campervans with grass pitches. We’re in a great spot if you love fishing, kayaking, gorge walking, cycling, seasides, fossil hunting, wild swimming, fell running, bird watching, archaeology or even Viking history! We are 9 miles from the mystical Glastonbury Abbey and Tor and directly on a Sustrans 33 cycle path route. The River Brue runs alongside the campsite with damsel flies fluttering by and kingfishers darting back and forth. We are on the Somerset levels so the sunsets are amazing as well as night time stargazing. We have a private, wooden jetty where you can launch your own paddle board. It’s a perfect get away for campers and nature lovers. Bring your own raised BBQs and logs or buy firewood on site. A family run campsite around 30 miles south of Bristol on the banks of the River Brue, it has a relaxed vibe and we try to keep things simple and straight forward. It’s ideal for doing some day trips nearby, then lighting the BBQ and playing Frisbee (games box you are most welcome to use). Shower and toilet, drinking water, washing-up sink in garden kitchenette. Our big sister site is just 4 miles away, and the café bar at 'Wall Eden Farm' serves fantastic coffee, cake, and family-made Somerset cider. If looking for classic countryside pub meal The Duck at Burtle and The Bird at Westhay are local favourites, be sure to book! Burnham on Sea close by has great fish and chips, a sandy beach, a pier and promenade if you like salty fingers and sandy toes. *DIRECTIONS* Little Eden Adventures is on Goole Maps Postcode takes you within 200 meters of campsite, look for white house with flagpole on stone bridge over river. What3words master.musical.titles. Our grandmother and her 5 sisters grew up milking cattle on the land. It’s steeped in history and archaeology. Bring your fishing rod as there are bream and roach in the River Brue. The site is a dream for cyclists. Electric vehicle charging at Wall Eden Farm with a Farmshop stocked with essential supplies, Moonshine and sweet treats. Sorry no pets as livestock in neighbouring fields. Big Adventures and Little Moments Warmest Wishes, Team Little Eden
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£15
 / night
Hollington Park Glamping

14. Hollington Park Glamping

95%
(11)
37km from Swindon · 6 units · Glamping
Pod and bell tent glamping in woodland on the edge of the North Wessex Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£105
 / night
Frome Meadow Campsite

15. Frome Meadow Campsite

93%
(167)
102km from Swindon · 114 units · Tents
A magical riverside retreat near Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£14
 / night
Walltree House Camping

16. Walltree House Camping

98%
(29)
64km from Swindon · 34 units · Tents, Glamping
Simple camping in the grounds of a farmhouse, with thrill-seeking activities in arm's reach
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Old Litten

17. Old Litten

99%
(60)
83km from Swindon · 1 unit · Tent
Nestled atop a serene hill, this idyllic field offers a perfect escape for campers. Blanketed in lush, green grass, the field stretches out under a vast, clear sky, providing panoramic views of the South Downs National Park. Wildflowers in vibrant hues dot the landscape. As the sun goes down, the sky transforms into a canvas of twinkling stars, untouched by city lights. This remote haven, far from the hustle and bustle, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£40
 / night
Cotswolds Glamping

18. Cotswolds Glamping

100%
(6)
54km from Swindon · 4 units · Glamping
Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£96
 / night
Penylan Cider Farm

19. Penylan Cider Farm

96%
(24)
86km from Swindon · 3 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pitches and tiny home glamping on a cider farm in Herefordshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£20
 / night
Spring Hill Wild Camping

20. Spring Hill Wild Camping

97%
(86)
44km from Swindon · 15 units · Tents
Spring Hill Wild Camping is a camping site set in the beautiful Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne. Within easy walking distance of the two local pubs, the well stocked village shop and a pick-your-own fruit farm with cafe and play areas. The campsite aims to be a low impact, environmentally friendly site, providing only the basic necessities for camping; well maintained toilets and clean water. If you are looking for hot showers and a pool, this is not the campsite for you. If you are looking for beautiful views, countryside walks and open fires Spring Hill Wild Camping is the campsite for you.
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£10
 / night

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Campsites near Swindon guide

Where to go

North Wessex Downs

South of Swindon, the verdant hills of the North Wessex Downs AONB have miles of trails for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. Marvel at the Wiltshire White Horses, giant chalk drawings etched onto the hillsides; explore the ancient stone circle at Avebury; or cruise along the Kent & Avon Canal. Stop by the market towns of Marlborough, Hungerford, and Pewsey, where you’ll find traditional pubs and local artisan shops.

The Cotswolds

England’s most idyllic slice of residential countryside is the Cotswolds AONB. Hire a campervan for a road trip along the winding country lanes, stopping to explore the pretty stone villages, walk or cycle through rolling farmlands, or spot celebrity residents in villages like Castle Combe, Broadway, and Bourton on the Water. The Cotswolds adds a touch of glamor to camping, too—there are some great glamping options, and you’re never far from a gastro-pub.

Salisbury Plains

An hour’s drive south of Swindon, the enigmatic ruins of Stonehenge lie high on the Salisbury Plains. Visit the UNESCO site at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic views, take a hike through the hills, then head to nearby Salisbury to admire the mediaeval cathedral. To the south, quiet hiking trails and backcountry campsites await in the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB.

When to go

If you’re visiting in peak season between July and August, Swindon makes a smart choice to dodge the crowds, and there’s also a busy calendar of summer events and festivals. Wiltshire weather is best from May through September—plan a hiking trip in late spring to see the countryside blossoming with wildflowers, or in fall for autumnal walks through the Cotswolds.

Know before you go

  • Swindon has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip. 
  • Swindon 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 Wiltshire.