Wildlife-watching campsites in Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve

Nature flourishes amid the marshes and fenlands of the Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, home to more than 9,000 wetland species. Explore the patchwork fens by bike, take a boat cruise along the waterways, or follow the boardwalks through the grassy meadows and reedbeds. Look out for birds, butterflies, and dragonflies around the water’s edge, or admire the reserve’s free-roaming herds of Highland cattle and Konik ponies. There’s no camping in the reserve itself, but campsites dot the surrounding fenlands. There’s also a wild camping site—reachable only on foot or by bike— just south of the reserve.

97% (583)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nature flourishes amid the marshes and fenlands of the Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, home to more than 9,000 wetland species. Explore the patchwork fens by bike, take a boat cruise along the waterways, or follow the boardwalks through the grassy meadows and reedbeds. Look out for birds, butterflies, and dragonflies around the water’s edge, or admire the reserve’s free-roaming herds of Highland cattle and Konik ponies. There’s no camping in the reserve itself, but campsites dot the surrounding fenlands. There’s also a wild camping site—reachable only on foot or by bike— just south of the reserve.

97% (583)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%

(177)

47 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Woodbridge, England

We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE

2. Fire and Feast Suffolk

100%

(34)

11 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Suffolk, East Anglia

Camping in the beautiful country of Suffolk, with a rustic dining experience like no other

3. Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

97%

(143)

20 units · Tents, Glamping · Ely, Cambridgeshire, East Anglia

Cosy year-round glamping and seasonal camping in a fenland meadow with views of Ely cathedral

4. Piggles Retreat

3 units · Glamping · Cambridgeshire, England

Nestled discreetly on the outskirts of the iconic town of Cambridge, UK, a mere 25-minute drive away, lies the exquisite Piggles Retreat. Elevating the glamping experience to unparalleled heights, this enchanting haven caters to both families and couples seeking an unforgettable getaway. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature as you indulge in the comfort of up to three exclusive wooden cabins, thoughtfully designed to accommodate 1-4 persons each. For those seeking extra space to unwind with extended family, children, or friends, an inviting annex cabin awaits your arrival. While preserving the essence of camping, each cabin boasts its own private bathroom, just a leisurely stroll away, ensuring convenience without compromising on authenticity. These authentic cabin are a dream-come-true. Located in a private area, these homes are equipped with everything you'll need for a relaxing time away. In a great position near to Newmarket, a stay in our cosy cabins are sure to be one of the most memorable vacations you'll experience. You can also have a relaxing boat ride on the lake. As a self-catering cabins, you'll find everything you need for a perfect stay. The kitchen areas have a fridge, a kettle, a freezer and a microwave. Cutlery and plates etc are supplied. The cabins are a perfect place to relax and offers a television. There is one bedroom in the cabins which contains a double bed. All bed linen is supplied. Although the cabins are designed for 2 guests it can accommodate up to 4 guests for an additional £ 30.00 per night per guest. There is a sofa bed and we can supply a put up bed if required. The extra guests will have to bring their own bed linen or bring a sleeping bag. There is a private luxury bathroom a short walk away which has a toilet and a walk-in shower. Shampoo and soap is provided but please bring your own towels. There are free parking on premises parking facilities available at the property. Use Code 8SJVPVML for 20% off any unit this summer!

5. Brightwell Country Park

100%

(14)

1 unit · Glamping · Woodbridge, Suffolk, East Anglia

Bell tents and an accessible cabin, with activities right from your door

6. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%

(164)

72 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads

7. Daisy May’s Farm

87%

(178)

10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Bishop's Stortford, England

Our pop up campsite is set in 20 acres on a not for profit community farm. Come and join us in the great outdoors! Help collect the eggs, feed the chickens and milk the goat! There is always lots going on at Daisy May’s Farm! Children’s play areas, paddle stream, woodland walks and lots more! PITCH FEE INCLUDES ENTRY TO THE FARM & ALL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS! Open 7 days a week. Coffee Cabin and Ollie’s Food Hut also serving hot food (Weekends & school holiday 10-3pm) Local pub - 5 mins walk Golf Course (crazy golf, top golf, 9 hole course, bar and food) - 5 mins walk Shop/post office/chip shop - 10 mins walk Toilets & shower ; hot gas shower available but we are a basic wild, mostly off grid site. No concrete heated toilet blocks I’m afraid! (Showers unavailable in Winter months) There will be mud. Bring your wellies! Drinking water and bins available. Bring a torch for walking around the site at night. The site is off grid and the toilet lights are solar operated! CARAVANS - ONLY BOOKABLE MAY - SEPTEMBERTENTS - CAMPER VANS - MOTORHOMES WELCOME ALL YEAR (all pitches are the same. No need to specify which type of unit you are booking) We look forwards to welcoming you soon!

8. Cuckoo Farm Campsite

99%

(202)

13 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Rutland, East Midlands

Family camping with campfires on an organic farm, set alongside the beautiful River Chater

9. Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

90%

(20)

39 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Sudbury, Suffolk, East Anglia

Update we allow cars ad camper and this land has a special energy. Set in the valley with the hillside gives 360 degrees view of natural landscape. Wethersfield Eco Project is the historic parkland of Wethersfield Manor. Veteren Oaks and Sequoia Grace the woodland hillside with badgers and foxes in the sandy hills, buzzards and kites soaring the ponds full of dragonfly. Great space for a family or romantic getaway or larger group party. If you are a group under 10 people please expect to share the space with others but we'll ensure you have your own private area! Bring your sound system and have your own party or event. Music must be off after 11pm as houses are 500metres away. Price is per adult 16 or over per night 11am to 11am checkout. Late checkout or day rate til 5pm is 10 per adult. Kids free. Dogs are 5 pounds.

10. Constable Park

100%

(20)

17 units · Tents, Glamping · Suffolk, East Anglia

A holiday and leisure park ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, with premium glamping options

11. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%

(29)

108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · King's Lynn, England

🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.

12. Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

100%

(6)

5 units · Motorhomes · Diss, England

A year-round lakeside site for motorhomes and caravans in Suffolk

13. Finchingfield Lavender & Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Finchingfield, England

Luxury camping and glamping pitches within a wildflower meadow. Private loo per pitch, fire pit with BBQ Grill & a picnic bench. Our North Essex hideaway is perfect for a country retreat under the stars. Just over an hour away from London, located in a rural setting outside the chocolate box village of Finchingfield with tea rooms and three great independent pubs. We are a micro Lavender farm home to 3.5 kms of hand planted Lavandula × intermedia 'Lavender Grosso'. Our campers and glampers have unlimited access to our lavender field which overlooks rolling fields and sunset views, perfect for a relaxing evening amongst the purple blooms

14. Serenity Lakes

100%

(5)

3 units · Glamping · Duxford, England

Cosy shepherd's huts with hot tubs, set alongside a tranquil fishing lake.

15. Ling's Meadow

100%

(25)

10 units · Tents · Suffolk, East Anglia

Spacious tent pitches and glamping set within a lush, four-acre meadow, abuzz with Suffolk wildlife

16. Stamford Meadows Glamping

100%

(12)

6 units · Glamping · Stamford, Lincolnshire, East Midlands

Peaceful, private yurt glamping in the heart of the Stamford Meadows

17. The Little Stable

100%

(3)

1 unit · Glamping · Northamptonshire, East Midlands

The Little Stable is situated in a meadow, which is part of a 63 acre arable field adjacent to Laundimer Woods and Fermyn Woods. The land has been farmed by my father and grandfather for the last 60 years going back to a time of horse drawn ploughs and open top tractors. The stable was built 25 years ago for a horse called Whisper and over the years it was left to deteriorate. I have been gradually restoring the building since 2019 and decided it would be ideal as a luxury tiny home. I have put my heart and soul into build a unique, comfortable and private space for people seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. On the doorstep are some fantastic walks and rides through the woods. They were one of the original re-release sites for Red Kites in the UK and the breeding programme has been incredibly successful. It's a hidden gem, off the beaten track and a great place to reconnect with nature and the countryside. We can give you a map of the many trails through the woodland and other places of interest. We would advise bringing a pair of wellies or sturdy walking boots. A short car journey away you will find Deene House & Park (3 miles), Kirby Hall (4 miles), Rockingham Castle (4 miles), Boughton House (5 miles), Lyveden New Bield (6 miles) and the pretty and historic market town of Oundle (7 miles), A little further afield there is the beautiful town of Stamford and magnificent Burghley House (19 miles).

18. Birds & Bees Campsite

100%

(20)

21 units · Tents · Saxmundham, England

Eco-friendly, family-centric, tents-only camping nestled among the long grasses of Suffolk's Alde Valley

19. Wild Meadow at Raynham Estate

100%

(12)

9 units · Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

Luxury yurt glamping in a quiet meadow on a Norfolk estate

20. Driftways Glamping and Camping

100%

(12)

14 units · Tents, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

Camping and glamping in a spacious meadow on a South Norfolk smallholding

Camper favorites in and near Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Finchingfield Lavender & Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Finchingfield, England

Luxury camping and glamping pitches within a wildflower meadow. Private loo per pitch, fire pit with BBQ Grill & a picnic bench. Our North Essex hideaway is perfect for a country retreat under the stars. Just over an hour away from London, located in a rural setting outside the chocolate box village of Finchingfield with tea rooms and three great independent pubs. We are a micro Lavender farm home to 3.5 kms of hand planted Lavandula × intermedia 'Lavender Grosso'. Our campers and glampers have unlimited access to our lavender field which overlooks rolling fields and sunset views, perfect for a relaxing evening amongst the purple blooms

Serenity Lakes

100%

(5)

3 units · Glamping · Duxford, England

Cosy shepherd's huts with hot tubs, set alongside a tranquil fishing lake.

Ling's Meadow

100%

(25)

10 units · Tents · Suffolk, East Anglia

Spacious tent pitches and glamping set within a lush, four-acre meadow, abuzz with Suffolk wildlife

Stamford Meadows Glamping

100%

(12)

6 units · Glamping · Stamford, Lincolnshire, East Midlands

Peaceful, private yurt glamping in the heart of the Stamford Meadows

The Little Stable

100%

(3)

1 unit · Glamping · Northamptonshire, East Midlands

The Little Stable is situated in a meadow, which is part of a 63 acre arable field adjacent to Laundimer Woods and Fermyn Woods. The land has been farmed by my father and grandfather for the last 60 years going back to a time of horse drawn ploughs and open top tractors. The stable was built 25 years ago for a horse called Whisper and over the years it was left to deteriorate. I have been gradually restoring the building since 2019 and decided it would be ideal as a luxury tiny home. I have put my heart and soul into build a unique, comfortable and private space for people seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. On the doorstep are some fantastic walks and rides through the woods. They were one of the original re-release sites for Red Kites in the UK and the breeding programme has been incredibly successful. It's a hidden gem, off the beaten track and a great place to reconnect with nature and the countryside. We can give you a map of the many trails through the woodland and other places of interest. We would advise bringing a pair of wellies or sturdy walking boots. A short car journey away you will find Deene House & Park (3 miles), Kirby Hall (4 miles), Rockingham Castle (4 miles), Boughton House (5 miles), Lyveden New Bield (6 miles) and the pretty and historic market town of Oundle (7 miles), A little further afield there is the beautiful town of Stamford and magnificent Burghley House (19 miles).

Birds & Bees Campsite

100%

(20)

21 units · Tents · Saxmundham, England

Eco-friendly, family-centric, tents-only camping nestled among the long grasses of Suffolk's Alde Valley

Wild Meadow at Raynham Estate

100%

(12)

9 units · Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

Luxury yurt glamping in a quiet meadow on a Norfolk estate

Driftways Glamping and Camping

100%

(12)

14 units · Tents, Glamping · Norfolk, East Anglia

Camping and glamping in a spacious meadow on a South Norfolk smallholding

Stories from the community

T

Toyah

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

We had such a fun time. Claire (our host) was lovely and made us feel incredibly welcome. We didn't bring anything to sit on (as we had taken public transport) and she was kind enough to lend us some benches for us to use on our patch. She ensured that our wood was kept dry for our campfire and that she was within reach should we need anything. We would definitely return again. Thank you for a lovely evening.

Carl

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

Just the one solo night at Hatters testing out some new equipment. Beautiful and well maintained campsite with a friendly owner Claire, who left me to myself. Non electric pitch.

E

Elisa

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

LOVED this stay. If your little one has sensitive ears you may need ear plugs/defenders as the aircrafts are rather loud. But over all, I loved this trip. Maybe need to take your own headlamp/torch as bathroom lamps were temperamental. Staff were amazing, everything well equipped. Would definitely recommend.

B

Ben

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serenity Lakes

The shepherd hut was clean and very comfortable. The location was peaceful and we had some amazing sunsets and rises. The wood fired hot tub was great as was the wood fire BBQ which was super easy to use and made the food taste great. We had a fantastic 2 nights and can’t wait to go back.

O

Olly

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

Had a lovely, welcoming and friendly, and really enjoyed the farm, getting to hold 2 day old ducks and bottle feed baby goats. We'll be back

Q

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

Great spot! The field was clean, the views were awesome, and the host was friendly. I’d come back!

F

Frankie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

Great campsite. Lovely site wardens, site and facilities were all very clean and wrll thought out. Friday night pizza was a lovely treat and very tasty. Would deffinetly stay again.

Paul

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

Plenty of space where you’re pretty much left to your own devices. Portaloo in close proximity which was immaculate. You can pick your own pitch either in the wood, the field or next to the lake. We absolutely loved it. A great place to sit round the fire pit, listen to music, sink a beer and reminisce the good times. I found it the perfect place to decompress and forget the outside world! Took paddle boards and a kayak for a day down at Paper Mill Lock and it was perfect. Well worth a visit. £5 for all day parking, tea room and ice cream stall. The place was buzzing!! Tim’s land was the perfect base camp. Bravo Tim!!

Grass Pitch with access to Electric Hook Up

S

Sandra

August 2025

5 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cuckoo Farm Campsite

Great one night stop over with my grandson. Great showers and we were there on a Sunday morning so went on the farm tour which was brilliant

T

Teddy

August 2025

With kids

1 night at Brightwell Country Park

Great place to glamp, would love to go back and would certainly recommend.

N

NA

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Daisy May’s Farm

Campsite has lots of space. Farm animals are lovely.

B

Brian

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

Love Daisy Mays. The staff are polite and helpful. The vibe is relaxed and the site is generally clean and well maintained. The only thing that could do with attention are the toilets. They are basic (which is ok, no-one is expecting luxury) but they could do with being checked by staff more regularly. The bins were always full and the locks on the doors were a nightmare.

S

Sal

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Daisy May’s Farm

Good site decent facilities and lots of animals around the camp.

F

Felipe

August 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

An amazing place to camp all facilities were clean and well maintained staff was helpful and friendly

d

dan

August 2025

5 m Class A

Weekend Trip to Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

Awesome to be able to forage your own wood and have a fire pretty much anywhere you like. Tim was very friendly and laid back. A few decent options to pitchup in a field or woods. Heads up no wild swimming there any more as stream has silted up but is still a natural spring there though and some incredbile old oak trees. Tim recommend the River Stour as a paddleboarding spot which was great and 30mins ish drive away. Subbury, henny or Bures all good for getting on the river if you that way inclined

G

Gareth

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

Really nice site. Really accommodating when we were having problems getting there. Overall fantastic we will stay again when we’re in the are.

M

Mandy

August 2025

5 m Class B

3 nights at Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

The setting was prefect it was quiet adult only with great space and a beautiful lake lots of walks around .Great for biking around as well! Hollie was very friendly, we would definitely recommend it! and will be going back.

S

Sarah

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

Lovely campsite, clean tidy, fantastic shower facilities cleaniest bathrooms very well maintained. We will be back for the next year

L

Lisa

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire

This was a fantastic campsite. I loved that it was a small site (not far to trek to the loo) but the tall grass between each pitch made you feel like you had some privacy. The toilets/showers were some of the best I've used on a campsite. Lesley and Bob were super helpful, we appreciated the tour when we arrived and knowing there was a reception hut if we needed anything. The pizzas were also a nice treat. Thanks so much for a terrific stay!

G

Greg & Nimisha

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fire and Feast Suffolk

I don't normally post a review online but Fire and feast was exceptional, I'm even hesitant to share this review because I want to keep it to myself but that would be unfair to Judith, Fran, and Co. What an amazing camping experience from start to finish. Loads of room for each pitch, very laid back atmosphere, food is amazing, facilities are better than some hotels, there's even some lesser known activities a short drive a way. You will not be upset after a weekend here. I will be booking again!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Wildlife-watching campsites in Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve guide

When to go

Summer is peak season at Wicken Fen, and the boardwalks can get crowded, especially on weekends and school holidays. Some of the best wildlife-watching opportunities are in springtime, while increased rainfall through autumn and winter makes the wild landscapes appear even more dramatic. The reserve is open year-round, but boat tours and bike rentals are only available from Easter through October.

Know before you go

Wicken Fen is located in Cambridgeshire, about a 40-minute drive from Cambridge.
There’s no public transport to the park, but trains run to Ely, a 20-minute taxi ride away.
The reserve has restrooms, a café, and a visitor centre. Bike rental is available, but advance booking is recommended.
There is an entrance fee to visit the reserve, as well as a parking fee.
The boardwalks are accessible for wheelchairs, but advance booking is recommended as access can be tricky at busy times.