The best great views campsites 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.

97% (730)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

97% (730)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Chalky Downs

96%

(605)

10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Brighton, East Sussex, South East England

Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton

2. The Barn KT9

97%

(271)

22 units · Tents, Glamping · Greater London, South East England

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

3. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%

(58)

1 unit · Glamping · Berkshire, South East England

A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.

4. Lovebrook

97%

(38)

8 units · Tents · Lewes, England

We offer peaceful, back to basics camping on 33 acres of land in the beautiful South Downs village of Kingston. Get back to nature and take in the simple pleasures of the wide-open fields and South Downs views. There is a great country pub a few steps down the lane. We have an onsite wood-fired sauna, as well as Direct access to the South Downs Way, for amazing hiking and biking. The 8 grassy tent pitches are spread over a large field with composting loo's, a warm shower and a sink with running water, so there’s a firm back-to-basics vibe. We also offer firepits and wood buddles,( Pre-booking only), Perfect for roasting marshmallows! Things to do... Wood-fired Sauna Join us for a sauna session and enjoy some real TLC with facemasks, salt scrubs and if you are feeling brave cold plunge pool and an outdoor shower that will leave you feeling invigorated. Events Join us for a sauna special or yoga retreat while camping at Lovebrook See our full calendar via the website The local pub The Juggs is our local village pub on The Street, perfect for a bite to eat and a drink in the beer garden – We recommend booking a table, just give them a call 01273 472523 The South Downs Way Keep walking up The Street and the lane turns into a public footpath that steeply ascends to join the stunning South Downs Way. We love the app Komoot for findng the perfect trail. Lewes Lewes is lovely for shopping, cafes and mooching about. Take a scenic walk or call a taxi. The standing stone You may have spotted the standing stone on our top field. Feel free to wander up for a panoramic view, and ask us about its story. Get involved... We run a quarter acres market garden with regular volunteer days and wellbeing activities, so you may well see us out on the land, and are welcome to join us. Kingston is a peaceful village, so it’s well-suited to quiet, family-friendly breaks with plenty of birdsong and wildlife. check out our website or Instagram for more information Lovebrook is an ecological community project, so all profits from camping go towards running activities on the land, for underserved or vulnerable groups.

5. Spring Hill Wild Camping

97%

(86)

15 units · Tents · Andover, England

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.

6. Old Litten

99%

(60)

1 unit · Tent · Steep, Hampshire, South East England

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.

7. Penn Meadow Farm

91%

(233)

50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Beaconsfield, England

Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England) Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies. We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening. The site includes; Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked. Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up Running drinking water Shared open kitchen Fires allowed BBQ's allowed To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules: Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone. Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them. Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space. Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space. Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm. Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached. Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment. Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol. We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.

8. Littleton Farm Campsite

94%

(27)

20 units · Tents · Upwaltham, England

Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive. A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds. There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park. Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away. In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire. Please note, the site is dog free.

Camper favorites in and near Swinley Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lovebrook

97%

(38)

8 units · Tents · Lewes, England

We offer peaceful, back to basics camping on 33 acres of land in the beautiful South Downs village of Kingston. Get back to nature and take in the simple pleasures of the wide-open fields and South Downs views. There is a great country pub a few steps down the lane. We have an onsite wood-fired sauna, as well as Direct access to the South Downs Way, for amazing hiking and biking. The 8 grassy tent pitches are spread over a large field with composting loo's, a warm shower and a sink with running water, so there’s a firm back-to-basics vibe. We also offer firepits and wood buddles,( Pre-booking only), Perfect for roasting marshmallows! Things to do... Wood-fired Sauna Join us for a sauna session and enjoy some real TLC with facemasks, salt scrubs and if you are feeling brave cold plunge pool and an outdoor shower that will leave you feeling invigorated. Events Join us for a sauna special or yoga retreat while camping at Lovebrook See our full calendar via the website The local pub The Juggs is our local village pub on The Street, perfect for a bite to eat and a drink in the beer garden – We recommend booking a table, just give them a call 01273 472523 The South Downs Way Keep walking up The Street and the lane turns into a public footpath that steeply ascends to join the stunning South Downs Way. We love the app Komoot for findng the perfect trail. Lewes Lewes is lovely for shopping, cafes and mooching about. Take a scenic walk or call a taxi. The standing stone You may have spotted the standing stone on our top field. Feel free to wander up for a panoramic view, and ask us about its story. Get involved... We run a quarter acres market garden with regular volunteer days and wellbeing activities, so you may well see us out on the land, and are welcome to join us. Kingston is a peaceful village, so it’s well-suited to quiet, family-friendly breaks with plenty of birdsong and wildlife. check out our website or Instagram for more information Lovebrook is an ecological community project, so all profits from camping go towards running activities on the land, for underserved or vulnerable groups.

Spring Hill Wild Camping

97%

(86)

15 units · Tents · Andover, England

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.

Old Litten

99%

(60)

1 unit · Tent · Steep, Hampshire, South East England

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.

Penn Meadow Farm

91%

(233)

50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Beaconsfield, England

Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England) Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies. We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening. The site includes; Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked. Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up Running drinking water Shared open kitchen Fires allowed BBQ's allowed To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules: Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone. Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them. Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space. Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space. Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm. Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached. Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment. Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol. We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.

Littleton Farm Campsite

94%

(27)

20 units · Tents · Upwaltham, England

Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive. A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds. There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park. Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away. In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire. Please note, the site is dog free.

Stories from the community

S

Siubhan

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Penn Meadow Farm

Amazing views over the hills with red kites, gorgeous horses in the next door field and really friendly sheep dogs. Gorgeous shower block which make you feel like you’re in a boutique hotel! 200m walk to fantastic pub with great food and fires. Can’t wait to go back

O

Oscar

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Old Litten

Charlotte’s land was a brilliant spot perfectly located with a beautiful view. Had everything we needed for our one night stay and we had a great time thanks to it.

I

Ian

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Old Litten

What an incredible find! Lovely views, lovely people nearby and the host was so friendly and welcoming. We will absolutely be back!

H

Harry

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Hill Wild Camping

A great camp and we would definitely stay here again!

G

Geert

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Litten

A truly beautiful place to stay – so charming and full of character. And then there’s Charlotte, the hostess: such a warm and welcoming person, with a genuine passion that shines through in her wonderful camper spot. The surrounding region is perfect for both walking and gravel riding. For food and drinks, head to the pub just around the corner (“The Pub with No Name” aka The White Horse). It’s incredibly authentic and serves excellent cuisine.

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Hill Wild Camping

Excellent spot. Big field with individual plots, most had benches. Excellent pub a short walk down the hill.

T

Ty

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Hill Wild Camping

Great views, simple back to basic's camping. Friendly host, would highly recommend

R

Rachel

October 2025

2 nights at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

We had the most wonderful stay at this little countryside getaway! From the moment we arrived, Jane was absolutely incredible - so kind, welcoming, and full of helpful information about the lodge and surrounding area. She’d thought of everything, leaving clear instructions for how everything worked, which made our stay effortless and relaxing. The thoughtful touches really made it special - from the freshly baked bread to the delicious shortbread cookies, everything felt homely and made with love. The setting itself was pure peace and quiet, surrounded by nothing but cows, trees, and the soft sounds of nature. It was the perfect place to switch off, breathe deeply, and just enjoy the calm of the countryside. We honestly didn’t want to leave - a hidden gem that we’d return to in a heartbeat!

E

Eren

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

My girlfriend and I had a lovely stay at Little Fleece to celebrate her birthday. The hot tub was lovely and we made some great pizzas using the pizza oven. Jane and Dave were brilliant hosts - it was lovey to meet you both! The homemade bread and biscuits were a lovely touch. Thank you!

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Spring Hill Wild Camping

The space is really beautiful and the views are great. It has very basic amenities but it’s the kind of place I like. Being next door to the animals was also a great and entertaining bonus. It’s a short walk to the local village entirely down forest paths if you wish, with a fantastic pub. It’s a particularly nice place to stay out of season when the autumn colours settle in.

R

Ross

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Old Litten

Lovely site for nearly wild camping, had the place all to ourselves, and the view was incredible. Charlotte was a lovely and helpful host, would definitely recommend. If it helps anyone find the site in future, the what3words is ///deeper.perfumes.hiked

C

Charlie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Excellent site, so relaxing and beautiful: just as described. Cannot recommend highly enough, will definitely return and highly recommend

M

Mark

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lovebrook

Beautiful, landscape and views. In a very friendly rural farm environment. One gets a great feeling of back to nature. I shall be a regular visitor there, when I need to escape. Each pitch is well spaced out, so very private.

R

Ryan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

It is well organised, easy to access and you really do feel you are in the countryside/out in the wide open spaces. I highly recommend this site and aim to be back very soon!

P

Paul

September 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

2 nights at Chalky Downs

Our host was very friendly and helpful. Facilities were fine, clean and tidy. You will probably need some ramps if you want to be completely level but wasn’t a problem for us.

T

Tim

September 2025

1 night at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

What a beautiful spot. Lovely little cabin. Everything worked as expected. Hot tub was AMAZING! Pizza oven worked a treat. Loads of wood supplied. Jane and Dave were so kind and accommodating. Just wish we had more time there!

S

Suzie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lovebrook

We had an amazing weekend at lovebrook, everything was super easy and the views were amazing! We loved the sauna session too and would highly recommend! Would love to come back

L

Liam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Had such a great stay at The Barn!! Such a lovely campsite and it has everything you need for a relaxing stay! There are great walks in the local area and the on site cafe had amazing pastries! Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful break!

M

Millie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Great campsite, really peaceful, beautiful views and great amenities.

My 4 man tent with plenty of space to pitch!

E

Emily

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Littleton Farm Campsite

I loved the location and that their is loads of space to pitch your tent. It is really emmersed in nature, you wake up to the birds chirping and pheasants. I love that you can have a campfire and that they even supply the wood logs to you att a cost! The evening sky was beautiful and the grass is lushes and green. There are porta loos and sinks spaced out around the camping area with drinkable water but the showers are right near the car park, which is a bit of walk. It rained when I was there but it didn't ruin my experience, it was quite nice being in my tent hearing the rain outside. The cars are parked in the car park, once you have unloaded and set up. I would definitely recommend Tania's place to stay.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views campsites 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.