Dog-friendly glamping in Swinley Forest

·

Known for 15 miles of varied-level mountain bike trails and its adrenalin-addled zipline courses just south of Bracknell in Berkshire, Swinley Forest is packed with outdoor fun for adventurers of all ages. Dog-friendly walks weave through the trees (pick up maps at the Look Out reception centre), and shaded forest tracks attract cycling. This area also makes an ideal base for trips to Legoland, Ascot, Windsor, and Thorpe Park, all within 30 minutes’ drive. Campers will delight in retreating to lakeside pitches, local working farms and secluded forest grounds nearby.

91% (912) 355 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Swinley Forest

4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

2 units · Glamping · England
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

5. Secluded Woodland Camp

95%
(10)
27 units · Tents, Glamping · Ware, England
Glamp or pitch up here in our secluded and peaceful mini off-grid site combining both field and forest. We have a shared under cover space and also an outdoor fire-pit to gather more than 20 people comfortably. There is a simple compost loo for your use with hand-washing and dish washing area outside. And the rest is all Mother nature! There is no running water or drinking water. You will need to bring your own. No electricity points or WIFI are in the campsite and no masts nearby so enjoy the EMF cleanse. Whether you chose to stay in the ancient woodland or the herbal pasture, you will feel the benefits of reconnecting with yourself in nature, breathing the clean air and hearing the birds singing. The parking is 800m away and there is minimal tractor use so you can imagine yourself roaming the fields and forest of England in days gone by. Fitness required. It's a long walk from the car park to the campsite. Trolleys provided.
Campfires
Picnic table
Cooking equipment
from 
£12
 / night

8. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
43 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£68
 / night

9. Bellatent

100%
(3)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night

13. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%
(8)
4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England
Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£99
 / night

Known for 15 miles of varied-level mountain bike trails and its adrenalin-addled zipline courses just south of Bracknell in Berkshire, Swinley Forest is packed with outdoor fun for adventurers of all ages. Dog-friendly walks weave through the trees (pick up maps at the Look Out reception centre), and shaded forest tracks attract cycling. This area also makes an ideal base for trips to Legoland, Ascot, Windsor, and Thorpe Park, all within 30 minutes’ drive. Campers will delight in retreating to lakeside pitches, local working farms and secluded forest grounds nearby.

91% (912) 355 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Swinley Forest

4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

2 units · Glamping · England
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

5. Secluded Woodland Camp

95%
(10)
27 units · Tents, Glamping · Ware, England
Glamp or pitch up here in our secluded and peaceful mini off-grid site combining both field and forest. We have a shared under cover space and also an outdoor fire-pit to gather more than 20 people comfortably. There is a simple compost loo for your use with hand-washing and dish washing area outside. And the rest is all Mother nature! There is no running water or drinking water. You will need to bring your own. No electricity points or WIFI are in the campsite and no masts nearby so enjoy the EMF cleanse. Whether you chose to stay in the ancient woodland or the herbal pasture, you will feel the benefits of reconnecting with yourself in nature, breathing the clean air and hearing the birds singing. The parking is 800m away and there is minimal tractor use so you can imagine yourself roaming the fields and forest of England in days gone by. Fitness required. It's a long walk from the car park to the campsite. Trolleys provided.
Campfires
Picnic table
Cooking equipment
from 
£12
 / night

8. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
43 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£68
 / night

9. Bellatent

100%
(3)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night

13. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%
(8)
4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England
Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£99
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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Dog-friendly glamping in Swinley Forest guide

Where to go

Windsor & Eton

Queen Elizabeth’s beloved weekend escape, millenium-old Windsor Castle lords it over the twin Thames-hugging towns of Windsor and Eton, a half-hour drive northwest of Swinley Forest. Wander the swish galleries and boutiques, jump aboard a boat trip along the Thames, then explore Windsor Great Park, filled with footpaths, gardens, and a much-loved deer park.

Chiltern Hills AONB

Northwest from London (and just an hour’s drive north of Swinley Forest), the Chiltern Hills AONB rolls across 320 square miles of beautiful Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Hertfordshire countryside. Sprawling farmland, secluded beechwoods, brick-built villages, and chalk hillsides characterise the area, which is also famous for its rare red kites. There are miles of bucolic walking paths, while cyclists can tackle the 167-mile Chilterns Cycleway. 

Along the Thames

From Windsor, the River Thames flows southwest to Tudor-tastic Hampton Court and Kingston, then onward into London, sweeping past the tiny village of Bray. Go kayaking, rowing, boating, and more before settling in at a riverside campsite.

South Downs

The chalk hills rippling between Winchester in Hampshire and Eastbourne on the East Sussex coast make up one of southern England’s most beautiful natural spaces, protected as a 628-square-mile national park. Venture here for hikes along the South Downs Way and the impossibly scenic Seven Sisters cliffs; visits to delightful country pubs and on-the-up vineyards; strolls around buzzy market towns such as Lewes; and oodles of other adventure activities. Sea-view campsites and caravan parks, along with glamping pods, bell tents, and lodges, cater to outdoors lovers in every budget.