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Birds & Bees Campsite

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· Saxmundham, England
10 acres
8 units
8 Tent
Eco-friendly, family-centric, tents-only camping nestled among the long grasses of Suffolk's Alde Valley

Know the difference between a brimstone butterfly and a common holy blue? Recognise a chaffinch from a blue tit? Well, as the name suggests at this wild, car-free campsite in Eastern Suffolk, cohabiting with the birds, butterflies, bugs and bees is what life is all about. You needn’t be able to name all the species – indeed there are probably so many here you never could – but if you want to immerse yourself in the native wildlife of Suffolk’s wild grass meadows, there’s no better place to be.

Conscientiously mown into the long, green-blonde grass, Birds & Bees Campsite is comprised of 15 individual tent pitches, connected via weaving pathways that meander across the field. Abundant hedgerows divide the entire campsite up into three separate meadows, with a facilities block and reception building – affectionately known as ‘The Beehive’ – inside an old dairy barn by the campsite entrance. The result is a perfect choice between convenient proximity to the showers (pluck for Clover’s Corner), the best views (the Meadow Rise field) or complete seclusion in the campsite’s furthest pitches (Nature’s Way meadow). For added convenience, there is also an extra composting toilet and freshwater point where the three meadows converge.

There truly is something to suit campers of all persuasions at Birds & Bees. Children lose themselves among the thick flora, hiding and seeking in the deepest patches of grass, while family groups gather around their evening campfires. Older couples and nature lovers pop out for the day to nearby RSPB Minsmere and Dunwhich Dunes – well-known for the appearances on BBC Springwatch – while cyclists assemble two-man tents as they stop off from the nearby national cycle route. Whatever your tenting tastes, campers here can't fail to appreciate the campsite's thoroughly laid back feel and traditional, back-to-basics ambience. Throw in a collection of East Anglia’s best beaches, less than half an hour away, and it’s easy to see how Birds & Bees Campsite is much more than just a very, very grassy field.

Activities
Biking
Hiking
Swimming
Wildlife watching
Natural features
Beach
Forest
Field
Farm
Available pitches
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Location
Saxmundham, England, United KingdomTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by James & Emma S.Joined in June 2017
100%
5 Ratings · 42 reviews
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Oliver H.recommends
August 9, 2022
Goldfinch - Meadow Rise
A beautiful campsite
A beautiful campsite, Stunning setting, loved that a lot of the field is left to grow wild, gives you privacy to your pitch and can see lots of wildlife, field mice, voles, pheasants and deer. James (Who I only met) and everyone involved there done a beautiful job, very attentive, amazing system in place logistically, everything is very clean at the shower/toilet areas. My only nit-pick and that due to summer holidays loads of damn kids screaming running amok, no idea if there is an area at Birds and Bee's but if there is not perhaps down the road maybe there should be a small section for a few pitches/area no children area for us adults who have not got kids but I also understand post covid world you are trying to recoup losses from the two years! Keep up the amazing work guys! I look forward to revisiting down the road!
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Leah L.recommends
July 24, 2022
Robin - Meadow Rise
Lovely lovely pitches!
Such a great site with great, spotlessly clean facilities. The long grass gives everyone space and privacy and the tree bog is perfectly situated for night time use. The fridge was a real treat for us, as was the kettle.
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Muireann C.recommends
July 24, 2022
Buttercup - Clover's Corner
Really lovely campsite. Facilities are so good, love the kettle, hot showers and phone charging point. Thanks so much for creating such a lovely restful escape
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Terry M.recommends
July 11, 2022
Robin - Meadow Rise
This site is just lovely
This site is beautifully laid out and well organised. Communications from James and Emma were especially notable and they provided reassuring guidance on site rules as well as extras for your stay. Giant Oak was a superb pitch, supplying wonderful birdsong, a wind and noise buffer and lovely imagery. 20mins drive out to most coastal areas east of the site. Highly recommend this site to anyone looking for secluded pitches that doesn't mind not having the car next to the tent. Great modern facilities near reception, plenty of hot water and convenient compost loo near the pitches at the end of the site.
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Jo S.
September 2, 2021
No cramped conditions here! You have an amazing mowed spot for your tent, lots of room for tables and chairs, bikes etc, plus fire pit is provided too. The setting for this campsite could not be more idyllic. Pitches are spaced out and well located over the fields. The owners have really thought about the campers experience rather then cramming us in. No hook up is no problem as there is access to fridges, freezers and somewhere to charge electronics. The washing facilities are equally as spacious and we loved the family washing facilities. This is a proper back to nature experience and the owners are super friendly and helpful. It’s a real gem for families where your children can have true free reign to play and explore.
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Na D.
August 4, 2021
Peaceful and quiet, with lots of space between pitches, each one slightly secluded or with its own special prospect. Great facilities include a good shower block, standpipes for water, no cars on site (so much quieter and more attractive and its not far to walk to the car park), a bucket of firewood for the fire burners already located at each pitch if you would like this, the attentions of a hand-reared, friendly magpie (such a joy), great views everywhere and super friendly support from James and his family. Highly recommend.
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Jessica B.
February 1, 2021
James and Emma could not have been more accommodating when we stayed in July 2020 with our two children, one of whom is a wheelchair user. This was our first camping venture with the children, and they were very helpful beforehand, and keen to do whatever they could whilst we were there. We jumped in at the deep end with a beautiful eco-campsite, but it was worth it. Next time, James offered to mow a special pitch nearer to the fabulous bathroom block and facilities (spotless and beautifully constructed), and this would make life much easier - the unpacking and loading from pitch to car was the only difficulty. The wetroom is incredibly spacious, but adults with mobility needs might like to take a second fold-up stool or step to assist with keeping things dry. But for people looking for accessible camping, with owners who will go out of their way to make their site accessible, allowing anyone to enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the Suffolk countryside, we could not recommend Birds and Bees more. Highly recommend the food add on option, and plenty of firewood to enjoy those starry nights. A brilliant first foray into camping as a family, even with a wasp sting next to the eye on departure!
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Richard B.
September 12, 2020
Our second visit here and well worth the long drive from Yorkshire! Peaceful and quiet, you would think you're the only ones there! The most spacious campsite we've ever stayed at. Good clean facilities and very helpful host who can provide firewood for an evening's star gazing. Lovely part of the world with good food, walks, beaches and of course crabbing! Thanks a lot James and Emma.
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Timothy W.
September 10, 2020
A wonderful place to spend a week, with masses of space between pitches and nothing to interfere with the beauty and tranquility of the site. We found ourselves spending every evening just sitting by the fire, chatting and staring at the spectacular night skies. The facilities are superb too. Thank you James and Emma for a delightful week, we are looking forward to another visit, as soon as you open again next season!
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Claire B.
August 29, 2020
Our pitch in nature’s way was very secluded and also very sheltered - this came in handy during storm francis! The peace was heavenly. A reduction in occupancy meant the washrooms were never busy. Just be ready for a long hike to get to them with the tree bog out of action. The firewood service was excellent and James was very welcoming. Definitely hope to return, especially to try the farm’s own ice cream.
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Mark W.
August 11, 2020
We spent a week at Birds and Bees and I would heartily recommend it. James the host was very friendly and the facilities are very modern and clean. The pitches are well spread out in some lovely meadows and the location is ideal for the seaside. A great holiday
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Louise M.
July 26, 2020
Our third visit to Birds and Bees in as many years, and didn’t disappoint. The communal parts of the site had been well adapted to cope with the additional social distancing and sanitising requirements, but because every pitch has so much space it didn’t impact on the experience at all. This is the perfect place for families wanting some peace and quiet, surrounded by beautiful sunset views and wildlife all around- but with convenience of well maintained shower and toilet facilities, fridges to keep the bbq meat and wine chilled for supper and lots of places to visit all within 30mins drive. Nice addition this year of a small bar hut on site open for a few hours at the weekends so anyone arriving and has forgotten to pack a sundowner can pick something up. James and Emma provide a warm welcome and just the right amount of assistance. You will not be disappointed with this beautiful site in Suffolk.
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Katia P.
September 1, 2019
Birds and beas is absolutely perfect... The pitches are spaced perfectly so you feel like you have privacy and can be social if you want. toilets and showers really clean kitchen was clean, had a fridge and kettle and toaster but most of all James was such a gem...he was the kindest, sweetest guy that was so helpful and patient with us first time campers... Gave us great advice and tips and if it wasn't for him we would never had done it.. now we love camping and would go back 100 x times to birds and bees thank you James
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Brett S.
August 20, 2019
Delighted that I chose to stay at Birds and Bees campsite as my first camping trip in over 30 years. I visited with my 11 yr old son and the owners made us feel very welcome and at ease knowing we were complete novices... the site was very spacious, the showers and toilets were super clean and the kitchen facilities were excellent. My son and I are now camping converts and are already talking about our next stay at Birds and Bees!
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Richard P.
August 12, 2019
One of the best campsites I have experienced and I have been camping for over 45 years! Spacious pitches with plenty of space between campers. On our first morning I spotted a barn owl emerging from a nearby tree and was captivated by the other bird life that goes to make this such a wonderful site. The owners were welcoming and clearly work hard to ensure that your stay is a happy one; for once I did not have reservations about using the showers, they are spotless and there is even shower gel if you need it. Come here with your family and know that your kids will have a great time and create memories of this rural haven for their future.
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Jane ?.
August 2, 2019
We’ve just returned from three nights at Birds and Bees. It was our first stay. We are seasoned campers and I can honestly say it was one of the most peaceful and relaxing trips we’ve had. The pitches are well spaced out and a good size. The location is beautiful. The owners were friendly and helpful. There is a gear drop off point near the pitches so it’s not too far to lug your stuff - there are wheel arrows available - and it’s lovely not having cars on the camping field. We would definitely go back.
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Simon K ?.
July 27, 2019
My 8 yr old daughter and I visited Birds & Bees for her first camping trip. She had a clear vision of camping wanting a somewhat ‘wild’ experience where we could cook over an open fire, feel secluded and eat s’mores without being cramped by other campers. I of course also wanted the practicalities as well - good showers, clean toilets and a well kept site. Bird and Bees met all our needs perfectly. James and Emma run the place and couldn’t have been more welcoming. They can provide wood for fires, grills to cook on, sausages and burgers, matches, bug repellant etc. In the kitchen area they even provide washing up liquid, tea, coffee, a kettle and a fridge freezer for shared use. The main building has male and female toilets / showers plus a large family bathroom. All were spotlessly clean every time we used them. We were on Hedgehog pitch - one of four secluded pitches surrounded by trees and hedges known as ‘Nature’s Way’. To my mind this is by far the nicest part of the site. The pitch was beautiful getting evening sun right on the fire pit. Despite a massive thunderstorm on our first night, both my daughter and I loved our visit. She can’t wait to go back and neither can I. Particular thanks to James for making us so welcome.
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Jannegron ?.
July 11, 2019
We had a wonderful 4 days at this magical campsite! The site is big and spacious so you don't feel on top of each other, love the fact that there is only a limited amount of spots so the site would never feel that busy. The owners are truly amazing and could not do enough to make you feel more welcoming. The area around the site is great with plenty of farm shops and lovely independent shops and sites to visits. We are defiantly not done exploring this spot and hope to return soon. Thanks for looking after us so well, Janne & Conrad
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Nicola W.recommends
May 30, 2019
Goldfinch
We loved this site for so many reasons....waking up to hear the birdsong every morning, so much space, no cars driving around so safe for the children to run around, clean shower facilities with hot water, a campfire on all pitches for marshmallows in the evening...... a real gem of a campsite. We will be back.
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Lucy M.
August 28, 2018
This place is a dream. The owners are delightful, each pitch is secluded and surrounded by nature. The loudest thing at night was the sound of owls. The hub of hot showers and kitchen was really well organised and welcome. Fire pits and firewood made glowing evenings possible while star gazing. The whole place was ideal for children, and close to the sea. We’ll be going again next year.
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Alexis H.
August 26, 2018
Our little family of four stayed at Birds & Bees this summer for five nights. We had a wonderful, relaxed stay - lovely pitches, which I'm sure are even nicer when the grass has had a bit more rain and been able to grow taller; really friendly hosts and fellow campers; nice touches like the family bathroom, fridge/freezer and kids' chairs at the Beehive; close to lots of fun day trips to Framlingham Castle, Thorpeness, Southwold/Walberswick beaches; helpful communication from James and Emma before our trip. We were lucky enough to have had some amazing star-gazing opportunities while we were there, and a "blood moon" which our boys are still talking about! We will definitely be back.
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Louise M.
August 26, 2018
This site truly is a wildlife haven, all the privacy and beauty of wild camping but with the benefit of excellent and spotlessly clean facilities. We stayed on Robin pitch and loved it - it's set down in it's own little glade at the bottom of the main meadow where there are about another 6 or 7 pitches, but each very much in it's own space so you feel very secluded. James was there when we arrived and showed us where everything was, including firewood for our fire pit and a breakfast hamper which we had pre ordered. The wood lasted us all 3 nights we stayed, we only had to buy a little extra kindling locally. There are plenty of toilets and showers for the size of the site and we never had to queue for anything, the kitchen it well appointed with a communal fridge and even a kettle, microwave and toaster, just adding that extra convenience if you want a quick cuppa! Everything is modern and clean and our kids even loved going in the compost toilet aptly named the 'tree bog'! If peace and tranquillity is what you are after, a great spot for children to run free and get close to nature with beautiful views of the Suffolk countryside this is an absolute gem. There is so much to do around about and great places to eat, we didn't even scratch the surface - we can't wait to return to Birds & Bees.
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Debbie M.
August 23, 2018
Before we arrived on our bikes .Emma sent me a nice text message to say what time we would be there so they could meet us and to show us around ' very friendly & helpful management Emma & James ' Toilet / shower blocks were so nice ' very clean ' warm ' always hot water ' ampel space to get changed and do your hair 'makeup ect. Mens toilet block was also as clean and warm ' There's a nice kitchen area hot water toaster'fridge for all to use . Campsite has little mown paths to each pitch ' plenty of space between pitche's .camp fire's can be lit near your pitch ampel wood to use .organised rubbish area . Very quiet ' family friendly. Only 20 minutes stroll to the white horse pub ' lovely local food ' lovely old pub ' nice selection of drinks ' 10 miles from the coast of Alburgh ' lovely seaside town to visit ' many footpaths to explore near birds & bees ' would recommend to anyone . For a nice break away for couples and families.
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Montynowad ?.
August 22, 2018
Although you are in a field with just a few people, approx 4 per field you still have some fabulous toilets, washing and shower facilities just a 100 yards away. These are spotless and because so few can be on the site then you never wait. Owners were helpful and their if needed but also non fussy. Area is Lovely, pub 0.8 miles away with great food. Only 10 miles out to the coast and I say the nicest part of Suffolk rather than the same old in southwold. This does get booked up with a lot of people returning so don't think you can book last minute and get in. The site is also very respectful of families etc so drunk and rowdy with loud music will not be allowed so if this is you then book elsewhere. Incredibly safe environment for children with lots to do around the site, all areas are accessible away from any cars. All in all a great visit and thanks to the owners for hanging onto that off grid feel, environmentally friendly as it can be but also offering the option of warm showers and a kitchen if you just can't manage the hole wild thing!
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Jessica ?.
August 20, 2018
We had a lovely stay a few weekends ago with a group of families, with assorted kids ranging in age from 2 to 8. The campsite is spacious and has some lovely secluded spots. The facilities were clean and well thought through - they even have a microwave and toaster. James and his team were welcoming and friendly and even posted us the water bottles that we mistakenly left at reception on our last day. The site is in the heart of gorgeous Suffolk countryside, with loads of great family day trips e.g. we visited Framlingham Castle and Dunwich beach. Couldn't ask for more.
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Stu ?.
August 18, 2018
We loved our stay from start to finish - from the warm, friendly welcome to the excellent facilities, everything was absolutely spot on. We very much enjoyed the large pitches and long grasses between them, so much nicer than the crammed-in sites at other locations. Each pitch had its own merits, from quiet secluded pitches to ones nearer the amazing facilities, there really is something for everyone.
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Helen ?.
August 7, 2018
This was our first time at Birds & Bees Campsite (Aug 2018). We were attracted by the emphasis on nature and peace and quiet and the site did not disappoint. We stayed on the pitch called Squirrel along Natures Way which is perfect if you want a secluded spot as it is right at the end of the mown track so people do not walk by your site. Note, however, that it is a 5 to 7 minute walk to the showers and main toilets so it may not suit everyone and there are plenty of other pitches that are closer to the facilities. The facilities themselves were excellent and clean with good showers, a fridge, kettle and large washing up area. James and Emma were there to meet us on arrival and were very friendly and helpful. We would definately go again though might try to time it better so we are not there for the wasp invasion. The wasps were quite a nuisance and we had to make a trap but that is not the fault of the campsite - just nature doing its thing!
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Luke ?.
July 23, 2018
Our family returned for a second visit to this wonderful campsite in the beautiful Suffolk countryside. The lovely owners have kept to their vision of a tranquil and natural site. The common spaces have been well maintained. There are plenty of showers. Kids love the space with the freedom to run around. The fire pits offer a lesson in campsite cooking. During the day this area of Suffolk offers so much with stunning beaches and great seaside towns. We will be back for a third time.
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Tania A.
June 25, 2018
A lovely first stay at Birds & Bees camp site. A very uncommercialised site which is what we were after. Saying that plentiful showers and toilets which were clean. Only queued once for the compost toilet which was fine. James & Emma (& 2 lovely children) gave us a warm welcome & we have already booked for the school holidays as there is a lot to see locally. It really is a lovely place and it would be a shame if lots more pitches were added as they are spaced out so you are quite private. Speaking to James we dont believe he has expansion in mind which is great news! Just be advised to book early!
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Neha ?.
June 25, 2018
We stayed for 3 nights. The campsite is really well laid out, no cars, easy to unload and set up. The facilities are clean. There is even a fridge if you need to store food. Kids were running all over the campsite. Felt very safe and relaxed. There are lots of new and interesting insects to discover! The hosts James and Emma are very open and friendly and recommended some great places. The beach is 20 mins away and great fun for crabbing! Definitely going back!
From the host
We are a family run Eco Campsite in the heart of Suffolk’s Alde Valley. We pride ourselves in offering spacious pitches with real campfires on secluded ancient pastures, you’ll be surrounded by giant hedges, mature trees and an abundance of wildlife.  You can stay at the campsite all day and night or set off on an adventure of Suffolk's gorgeous Heritage Coast and surrounding attractions, we're just 20 minutes from some of the finest beaches Wind turbines help to generate electricity and solar panels help to heat the water. We work in partnership with Natural England and the Forestry Commission planting wild flower and nectar plots, encouraging a wide variety of Birds and Bees! Experience real camping with the luxury of plush showers, toilets and kitchen facilities in our converted dairy buildings (known as the Beehive). Feel free to contact one of the family with any questions, we look forward to welcoming you at Birds and Bees Campsite.
Nearby attractions
The ancient market town of Framlingham (15-minute drive) was noted as far back as the Domesday Book and, today, along with the market every Tuesday and Saturday (which first began back in 1285) its history lives on in the magnificent 12th-century fortress (01728 724189), which makes a fascinating family day out. You can walk the wall and enjoy a picnic, play and shop. Your kids might already recognise it from Ed Sheeran’s, Castle on the Hill music video. Nature lovers, meanwhile, should head to the RSPB's Minsmere Nature Reserve (01728 648281; 20-minute drive) or on to Dunwich Heath and Beach (20 minutes), which is looked after by the National Trust and houses a myriad of species among the dunes. Other coastal treasures include the artsy seaside town of Aldeburgh, famous for its fish and chips, vibrant art and music scene and its range of boutique shops; and bustling Southwold, with its beach huts, lighthouse (01502 724729) and renowned pier. Both are around 25-minutes by car. Thorpeness Meare and Boating Lake (01728 832523; 20-minute drive) offers the best inland spot to lay in the sun with a picnic. The island-dotted lake and parkland covers some 60 acres – kayaks, rowing boats, canoes and sailing boats are all available to hire.
Food and drink
James and Emma provide a selection of delicious meat in the campsite's reception freezer at The Beehive. Remember to get it out in the morning so it’s ready for your campfire feast that evening. They also grow a selection of fresh herbs for you to pick and season your supper with. It's a 1-mile walk (or drive) to the Juniper Barn, Village Shop and Café (01728 663773). It's just down the road from Birds & Bees, so you can stroll down for your morning coffee or indulge in one of their delicious homemade treats, while gathering goodies for a picnic. Juniper Barn is family friendly, offers bike storage for cyclists and is wheelchair accessible. The White Horse (01728 663497), meanwhile, is the local pub in Rendham – a traditional spot serving pub grub in substantial portions – or it's a 10-minute drive to Saxmundham, the nearest town with a selection of mainstream shops and further dining options.
Video
https://www.youtube.com/embed/exHn1amz0vg

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