Bell tents in Wye National Nature Reserve

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At the heart of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this small nature reserve encompasses one of the area’s most visited viewpoints. Make a beeline for the Devil’s Kneading Trough, where the steep coombes afford views across the Romney Marshes and along the Channel coast. Once you’ve admired the views, stop for a picnic on the hillside or follow the hour-long Wye NNR nature trail to spot rare orchids, butterflies, and wildflowers. Hikers can also set out along the long-distance North Downs Way, which passes through the reserve.

98% (614)

Top-rated campgrounds

Sunset

1. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
£18
 / night
The Deer Park Glamping,

4. The Deer Park Glamping,

1 unit · Glamping · Tenterden, England
How does Glamping with a herd of privately owned deer sound to you? Deer Park Glamping is on our private 15-acre deer park, nestled within an "area of outstanding beauty", located in a village called Benenden, Kent You will be camping amongst our own herd of Fallow Deer 🦌 *** Before we go any further, I need to let you know that, unfortunately, we do not allow children, groups aged under 21 and pets, due to the deer and lake *** Although just a 90-minute drive from South East London or a 45-minute drive to the Eurotunnel terminal, it's a wonderful natural space to unwind and watch the shy herd of deer pass by your Bell Tent! If you want to explore the area, there is plenty to do; 🛍 The thriving town of Tenterden is a 7-minute drive, with small boutiques, pubs and a supermarket. 🏖 Camber Sands our local beach is just a 25-minute drive ⚓️ The beautiful harbour town of Rye and all its beautiful antique shops and boutiques is a 25-minute drive 🏰 Leeds Castle, Bodiam Castle and Scotney Castle are all within a 20-minute drive 🍾 We are surrounded by an abundance of incredible wineries including Chapel Down, Gusbourne and Tillingham What you will find at "Deerpark Glamping"; 🦌 Fully Set Up Bell Tents 🦌 15 Acres of land 🦌 3 acres of woodland 🦌 1 Acre lake 🦌 A privately owned herd of Fallow Deer 🦌 6 Sassy Geece 🦌 2 Compost Toilets 🦌 2 Cubicle Showers 🦌 3 Fire Pits for cooking (shared between tents) 🦌 Parking is within the deer park (we don't recommend bringing your Ferrari or Porches 🤪) 🦌 Deck Chairs As we want to keep the tranquil and calm feel to the space, therefore, we have limited the total occupancy to 10 Bell Tents (20 guests in total), if you are looking for an exclusive hire option, please let us know in advance and we can potentially increase the numbers. Accommodation comprises 5m Bell Tents, you can choose between double or single beds, occupancy is set at 2, however, we can go to 3 on request. There is a minimum 2-night booking. The inside interior has a "Boho" feel to it, with sheepskin rugs, throws and Moroccan neutral pouffes, chandelier lighting and outside festoons and bunting. All comes fully set up, equipped with Beds, Linen, Lighting, Soft Furnishing. The lake is fresh water and is stocked with trout, if cold water lake swimming is your thing, head in or why not bring your own paddle board? We supply 3 Firepits to be shared with 3-4 other tents, where you can cook your food or keep warm. This is completely off grid.. and your time to get closer to nature.
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
£145
 / night
Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

15. Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

100%
(3)
15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
We look forward to welcoming you to Setts Wood Farm and will provide you with all you need for a relaxing and rewarding visit to Tenterden and The Weald. We offer a selection of bell tents or you can bring your own tent. The camping is set across 2 fields and extends to 12 acres. We have a maximum of 30 tents so it is never crowded. Come and meet the alpacas, sheep, pigs, goats and horses! We also have a small fishing lake which guests are welcome to use for a small donation. We restocked last year and there are carp and several species of smaller silver fish. It is ideal for beginners and children. Any children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Setts Wood Farm is perfectly positioned to explore Tenterden and the surrounding villages, and is less than a 20 minute drive to the historic town of Rye, with the beaches of Camber, Dymchurch and Littlestone just a few minutes further.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
£28
 / night
Earth Camp

16. Earth Camp

90%
(34)
33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England
We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
£15
 / night
Caracol Camping

19. Caracol Camping

100%
(5)
8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England
Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.
Potable water
Campfires
Showers
from 
£113
 / night

At the heart of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this small nature reserve encompasses one of the area’s most visited viewpoints. Make a beeline for the Devil’s Kneading Trough, where the steep coombes afford views across the Romney Marshes and along the Channel coast. Once you’ve admired the views, stop for a picnic on the hillside or follow the hour-long Wye NNR nature trail to spot rare orchids, butterflies, and wildflowers. Hikers can also set out along the long-distance North Downs Way, which passes through the reserve.

98% (614)

Top-rated campgrounds

Sunset

1. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
£18
 / night
The Deer Park Glamping,

4. The Deer Park Glamping,

1 unit · Glamping · Tenterden, England
How does Glamping with a herd of privately owned deer sound to you? Deer Park Glamping is on our private 15-acre deer park, nestled within an "area of outstanding beauty", located in a village called Benenden, Kent You will be camping amongst our own herd of Fallow Deer 🦌 *** Before we go any further, I need to let you know that, unfortunately, we do not allow children, groups aged under 21 and pets, due to the deer and lake *** Although just a 90-minute drive from South East London or a 45-minute drive to the Eurotunnel terminal, it's a wonderful natural space to unwind and watch the shy herd of deer pass by your Bell Tent! If you want to explore the area, there is plenty to do; 🛍 The thriving town of Tenterden is a 7-minute drive, with small boutiques, pubs and a supermarket. 🏖 Camber Sands our local beach is just a 25-minute drive ⚓️ The beautiful harbour town of Rye and all its beautiful antique shops and boutiques is a 25-minute drive 🏰 Leeds Castle, Bodiam Castle and Scotney Castle are all within a 20-minute drive 🍾 We are surrounded by an abundance of incredible wineries including Chapel Down, Gusbourne and Tillingham What you will find at "Deerpark Glamping"; 🦌 Fully Set Up Bell Tents 🦌 15 Acres of land 🦌 3 acres of woodland 🦌 1 Acre lake 🦌 A privately owned herd of Fallow Deer 🦌 6 Sassy Geece 🦌 2 Compost Toilets 🦌 2 Cubicle Showers 🦌 3 Fire Pits for cooking (shared between tents) 🦌 Parking is within the deer park (we don't recommend bringing your Ferrari or Porches 🤪) 🦌 Deck Chairs As we want to keep the tranquil and calm feel to the space, therefore, we have limited the total occupancy to 10 Bell Tents (20 guests in total), if you are looking for an exclusive hire option, please let us know in advance and we can potentially increase the numbers. Accommodation comprises 5m Bell Tents, you can choose between double or single beds, occupancy is set at 2, however, we can go to 3 on request. There is a minimum 2-night booking. The inside interior has a "Boho" feel to it, with sheepskin rugs, throws and Moroccan neutral pouffes, chandelier lighting and outside festoons and bunting. All comes fully set up, equipped with Beds, Linen, Lighting, Soft Furnishing. The lake is fresh water and is stocked with trout, if cold water lake swimming is your thing, head in or why not bring your own paddle board? We supply 3 Firepits to be shared with 3-4 other tents, where you can cook your food or keep warm. This is completely off grid.. and your time to get closer to nature.
Campfires
Showers
Trash
from 
£145
 / night
Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

15. Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

100%
(3)
15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
We look forward to welcoming you to Setts Wood Farm and will provide you with all you need for a relaxing and rewarding visit to Tenterden and The Weald. We offer a selection of bell tents or you can bring your own tent. The camping is set across 2 fields and extends to 12 acres. We have a maximum of 30 tents so it is never crowded. Come and meet the alpacas, sheep, pigs, goats and horses! We also have a small fishing lake which guests are welcome to use for a small donation. We restocked last year and there are carp and several species of smaller silver fish. It is ideal for beginners and children. Any children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Setts Wood Farm is perfectly positioned to explore Tenterden and the surrounding villages, and is less than a 20 minute drive to the historic town of Rye, with the beaches of Camber, Dymchurch and Littlestone just a few minutes further.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
£28
 / night
Earth Camp

16. Earth Camp

90%
(34)
33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England
We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
£15
 / night
Caracol Camping

19. Caracol Camping

100%
(5)
8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England
Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.
Potable water
Campfires
Showers
from 
£113
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Wye National Nature Reserve

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Bell tents in Wye National Nature Reserve guide

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for country views: The Sunny Field has off-grid tent pitches, campervan sites, and glamping in bell tents, amid miles of open countryside. It’s a 10-minute drive from the reserve.
  • Best for budget campers: Flying Horse Inn is a country pub just west of the reserve and offers free overnight campervan parking for evening diners.
  • Best for escaping the crowds: Sunnyside Farm has plenty of grass and hardstanding pitches, optional electric hook-ups, and tranquil surroundings. It’s a 20-min drive away.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Kent Downs campsites and caravan sites can book up quickly, especially in July and August, and during school holidays. Plan up to six months in advance for popular sites or those with limited pitching. 
  2. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation; some sites ask for the full payment in advance. 
  3. Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates. Many campsites open from March through October, while others stay open year-round.

When to go

The most pleasant weather for camping is from April through September, and this is the main hiking season in the Kent Downs. Wildflowers bloom throughout this period, but come in late spring to admire them at their most colourful. Sites like the Devil’s Kneading Trough fill up with day-trippers throughout July and August, so make an early start to get a jump on the crowds or opt for a weekday visit in the off-season to enjoy the view to yourself.

Know before you go

  • Wye National Nature Reserve is located in the Kent Downs AONB, about a 20-minute drive from Ashford. Trains from London take about an hour to reach Wye train station, just 2 miles from the reserve. 
  • Free parking is available at the Wye Nature Reserve car park along Coldharbour Lane.
  • Camping is not possible in the reserve itself, and wild camping is not permitted throughout the Kent Downs AONB.
  • The reserve has a restaurant, but for public restrooms or to purchase picnic supplies, head to Wye village.

Popular Wye National Nature Reserve glamping styles