British attitudes towards holidaying closer to home are changing – whilst a summer getaway in a hot country was once at the top of people’s holiday wish lists, more and more of us are choosing to holiday in the UK. According to data, Brits spend over £13 billion each year on staycations. In addition, figures show that 93 percent of us go on at least one staycation break per year.
As we opt to spend more of our time holidaying at home, it becomes clear how popular camping breaks are for our spring and summer holidays. But with so many beautiful locations on offer, how do you decide where to spend your break? To help you make up your mind, we’ve taken a look at some of the best campsites on offer in the UK:
Baysbrown Farm, Great Langdale, Lake District
This peaceful site lies below the rocks of Crinkle Crags, Bowfell and the Langdale pikes – a site that boasts some of the stunning views that the Lake District is known for. Visit the lake-free valley of Great Langdale for some escapism away from the mayhem of everyday life.
Whatever your agenda, you’ll always find something to do. The bridle pathways through the valley part the way for some fabulous bike rides that showcase the views of the famous peaks.
This site is open March through til October. From £6 per adult and £3.50 per child.
Bay View Farm, Cornwall
The panoramic view says it all with this site – it’s about as good as the view gets on the south coast of Cornwall.
Close-by you can visit the picturesque fishing village of Polperro, which boasts a selection of tea rooms, fudge shops and galleries. You can even go shopping for a fresh catch of the day to cook on your BBQ that evening.
This site is open all year round. £20 per pitch, per night for two adults and two children.
Caolasnacon, Kinlochleven, Argyll
Unlike other Scottish campsites which are shielded by mountains, Caolasnacon is located on the edge of Loch Leven, and is one of Scotland’s most idyllic campsites in the Highlands. Offering the opportunity to pitch your tent right by the water makes it a perfect spot for water activities, such as canoeing and kayaking, and of course, provides a constant soundtrack of lapping waves.
The site is home to stacks of wildlife for everyone to enjoy. Otters find habitat in the Loch, whilst golden eagles fly above. The site provides a unique opportunity for campers to get away from bustling life and enjoy the natural scenery that the Highlands offer.
This site is open from Easter until October every year. From £10 per tent for two people.
Hooks House Farm, Robin Hoods Bay, North Yorkshire
A campsite with an outstanding view. Hooks House Farm boasts a high hill location looking over sloping grassy fields that lead to a breath-taking sea view. Located in the beautiful county of North Yorkshire, this campsite is the perfect starting point for those looking to take on the coast-to-coast walk across the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and the Lake District before finishing on the Cumbrian coast.
If you’re looking to stay close-by, then head to the gentle slope towards the rocky beach which is great for rock pooling and fossil hunting. Of course, you can also enjoy the sea waves in the summer months by taking a swim, or a little paddle.
This site is open March through til October. From £7 for adults and £3 for children.
Which car is best for camping?
Once you arrive at the campsite, your car could be parked up for the duration of your trip whilst you dive into an array of outdoor activities. However, you’ll want to make sure that you arrive safely – and with all your kit intact.
SUVs and family estate cars, such as the Ford Focus ST Estate, are ideal for camping – providing plenty of room for all your equipment. You’ll require quite a lot of equipment when you go on a camping vacation, especially if you plan for outdoor activities whilst you are there, such as canoeing, mountain biking and hiking. You’ll need plenty of space to pack everything you need into your car. We therefore recommend adding a bike rack onto your vehicle for safe transportation of your bikes, or any other outdoor equipment.
