Splatt Farm Gardens

For many, Splatt Farm Gardens represents camping as it’s supposed to be—low on price and big on spending quality time with your loved ones. Located in Somerset, just east of the Quantock Hills, Splatt is laid-back place where kids can run free, while adults sit around the campfire. Nearby days out range from sunny beach trips (15 minutes by car) to exploring bustling Bridgewater (10 minutes) or Taunton (20 minutes), while days staying put on the campsite, kicking a ball about or clambering on the climbing frame are just as fun.

There's a solid five acres of space for campers. It's flat, has good views, and enjoys a part of Somerset with wonderfully dark skies. The facilities are eco-friendly, including compost toilets and an outdoor solar shower that lets you bathe with a view. There's also a clutch of fun things for kids, like the giant trampoline, climbing frame, and slide. Ultimately, though, what you see is what you get at Splatt Farm. There's nothing too high tech or fancy. And there are also no additional charges—if you want to bring your dog, have a campfire, or set up a gazebo, go ahead (there is an on-site farm shop, though, for proper extras, including "fairy dust" that can be sprinkled on your fire for some multi-coloured magic).

You'll have fantastic views towards the Quantock Hills from your pitch. Take your wellies for an adventure through its wooded combes or hiking boots for the Macmillan Way. If you want to know more about why this is such a beloved part of the world, there's the Museum of Somerset in Taunton, located within the town's 12th-century castle. The place is full of history and the little village the campsite edges, Spaxton, dates back to the Doomsday book. The pub there, the Lamb Inn, is around a 20-minute walk from your pitch and does a good range in classic pies.