Tag: camping

There is something quietly magical about a day spent entirely outside.

No alarm for the morning after. No tent pegs to wrestle in the dark. Just you, a blanket, a good flask of something warm, and a long stretch of green ahead of you.

That is day camping, and if you have not tried it yet, this guide is your invitation.

In this guide, you will find:

• What day camping actually is and how it differs from a picnic
• Why more people across the UK are discovering it right now
• Exactly what to bring, from the essentials to the nice-to-haves
• The best places to go, all across the country
• How to actually slow down and enjoy it once you are there

If you are a complete beginner or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, day camping is the easiest and most relaxed way to start building a real relationship with the natural world. The good news? You probably already have most of what you need.

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What Is Day Camping?

Day camping is simply spending a full day in nature without staying overnight. You choose a spot and you stay there, properly, for the day.

Popular day camping locations include:

• A forest clearing with soft lighting and birdsong
• A beach with space to spread out and nowhere else to be
• A quiet riverbank or canal towpath
• A hillside with a view worth sitting with for hours

You arrive, settle in, slow right down, and head home when the light fades.

It is camping as a way of living without the logistics of sleeping outdoors. No tents. No sleeping bags. No lying awake at 3am wondering if it will rain. Just the good parts.

Think of it as the gap between a picnic and a full camping trip and, honestly, for many people, it is the best of both worlds.

If you are curious about taking things further, our guide to what wild camping actually means in the UK is a brilliant next step. And when you are ready for overnight stays, our best UK campsites guide for 2026 has everything you need to plan something wonderful.

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Day Camping vs a Picnic: What Is the Difference?

A picnic is a lovely thing. But a day camping trip is something else entirely.

A picnic typically looks like this:

• A couple of hours outdoors at most
• Centred around eating, then leaving
• A quick stop rather than a destination

Day camping is a different experience altogether:

• It lasts most of the day, from morning to dusk
• It focuses on being outside rather than simply eating there
• It moves at a slower, more intentional pace
• It feels restful and immersive rather than busy and fleeting

Day camping is about staying. Watching the light shift. Finishing your book. Having a second cup of tea. Noticing things you normally rush past.

It is less about what you do and more about how long you give yourself to simply be somewhere beautiful.

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Why Day Camping Is Having a Moment

More people than ever are searching for simple, low-cost ways to slow down and spend meaningful time outside, and day camping sits right at the sweet spot.

The Mental Health Foundation has long championed the link between time in nature and improved wellbeing. Mind describes nature as one of the most accessible tools we have for managing stress and anxiety. Research published via the NHS consistently shows that even short periods outdoors can meaningfully shift your mood.

No wonder people are turning to the simplest version of nature time they can find.

For more on the science behind why the outdoors does us such good, do not miss our deep dive into the top 10 science-backed health benefits of being in nature and our longer read on the top 50 wellbeing benefits of camping.

Day camping is popular because it is:

• Beginner-friendly, with no experience needed whatsoever
• Low cost and easy to organise at short notice
• Spontaneous enough to decide on the morning of
• Flexible enough to work for families, couples, solo adventurers, and groups of friends
• Genuinely restorative in a way that very few other activities are

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What to Bring for a Day Camping Trip

You really do not need much. The whole beauty of day camping is its simplicity. Here is a practical checklist to get you started.

The Essentials

A good camping blanket. This is the most important item on your list. It is your base, your warmth layer, your picnic rug, and your comfort all rolled into one. We think a great deal about blankets at Collette Costello, and if you want to know what makes one worth bringing, our guide to the top 10 camping blanket wraps from UK brands is an excellent place to start. If you care about what yours is made from, we have also explored 10 natural fibres for outdoor blankets, from merino wool to recycled cotton.

Food and drinks. Pack more than you think you will need. You will be surprised how much you eat when you have been outside all day with fresh air and open space around you.

A quality thermos. Brands such as Hydro Flask and Stanley make brilliant options for keeping drinks hot for many hours. A warm drink mid-afternoon can completely transform how a day feels.

Layers. UK weather is famously changeable. What begins as a sunny morning can feel quite cool by late afternoon, so pack a fleece or mid-layer even in summer.

A waterproof jacket. Non-negotiable in Britain. For festival and outdoor recommendations, see our guide to the top 10 festival raincoats for camping.

A comfortable rucksack. A good bag makes all the difference when you are carrying everything for the day. Osprey and Deuter are reliable UK-stocked options worth considering.

For a full beginner-friendly kit list, our guide to top 10 camping essentials for beginners covers everything you would want to know. Our guide on 10 easy ways to stay cosy when camping also has some lovely practical ideas.

Nice-to-Haves

These are not essential, but they can make a good day a genuinely great one:

• A cushion or seating pad for real comfort over several hours
• A good book or journal for a quiet, luxurious afternoon
• A small portable speaker, kept at a considerate volume in shared spaces
• Sunscreen and insect repellent, essential from late spring through summer
• A reusable cup and cutlery, far more pleasant than disposables and much kinder to the environment

If you are heading somewhere with a fire or BBQ area, our guide to creating the perfect cosy campfire setup is full of ideas for making the very most of it.

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The Best Places to Go Day Camping in the UK

You do not need to travel far or go remote. Some of the best day camping spots are far closer than you think.

Forests and Woodlands

Forestry England manages hundreds of forests across England with designated picnic areas and, in some locations, permitted BBQ zones. Many are free to access and reachable by car or public transport.

The Woodland Trust offers access to thousands of free woodland spaces across the UK, making it brilliant for a quiet, leafy day out. Their site includes a searchable map of woods near you.

Rivers and Canals

The Canal and River Trust looks after 2,000 miles of waterways in England and Wales, many of which have riverside picnic spots and walking paths worth exploring. National Trails routes such as the Thames Path are particularly lovely for a slow day out.

Beaches and Coastlines

Visit Britain and Visit England both have excellent resources for planning coastal day trips. The variety of coastline across the UK is genuinely extraordinary:

• The dramatic sea stacks and cliffs of Cornwall and Pembrokeshire
• The wide, quiet sandy beaches of Northumberland
• The rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands coast
• The sheltered bays and coves of Devon and Dorset

The National Trust protects significant stretches of coastline and offers a searchable finder for outdoor spots worth visiting.

Local Parks and Countryside

Ordnance Survey maps are the gold standard for finding public footpaths and access land. AllTrails UK and Komoot are both brilliant apps for discovering easy walks and picnic-friendly spots near you.

For rules around public land access and rights of way, GOV.UK’s countryside access guidance is worth a quick read before you head somewhere new.

Using a Campsite as a Day Base

This is an underrated option that more people should consider. Booking a pitch at a campsite and using it as a full-day base gives you access to:

• Clean toilet and washing facilities throughout the day
• Running water for cooking and cleaning up
• Sometimes a café, farm shop, or on-site facilities
• A beautiful, well-chosen setting you can truly relax in

Sites on Pitchup, Cool Camping, and Campsites.co.uk often have settings that make for a genuinely wonderful full-day experience.

Our guide to the best camping staycations in the UK for 2026 and our best sustainable campsites guide are full of brilliant ideas, especially if you want somewhere that treads lightly on the landscape.

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BBQ Day Camping: What You Need to Know

If a barbecue is part of your day, there are a few things worth knowing before you light up.

BBQ rules in the UK vary enormously by location, landowner, season, and current wildfire risk. Always check signage on arrival and never assume it is permitted.

Places where BBQs are sometimes allowed, with restrictions:

• Forestry England designated BBQ areas in selected forests
• National Trust sites, in specific permitted zones only
• Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, subject to strict fire rules and seasonal restrictions
• Some city parks with controlled grill zones (check your local council website)
• Some Canal and River Trust riverside spots, though rules vary by site

Before any outdoor fire or BBQ, it is worth checking the Met Office Fire Severity Index, especially during dry summers. If you are in Scotland, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code covers responsible fire use in detail and is essential reading.

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How to Actually Enjoy a Day Camping Trip

Here is a secret: the best day camping trips do not have an itinerary.

The rhythm of a good day tends to look something like this:

1. Arrive without a fixed plan. Pick your spot and settle in before you do anything else.
2. Get comfortable first. Blanket down, drinks out, layers sorted.
3. Resist the urge to fill the time. Let the day unfold at its own pace.
4. Eat slowly. This is not a lunchbreak. It is a meal worth sitting with.
5. Notice things. The light changing, the sounds shifting, how you feel after an hour without your phone.
6. Leave only when it naturally feels right, not because of a schedule.

If you are going with family, this unhurried approach works beautifully with children. Unstructured outdoor time is genuinely beneficial for children’s development, and they tend to find their own way into it without much encouragement.

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Day Camping and Wellbeing: Why It Actually Works

This is not just about having a nice day out, though it absolutely is that. Spending extended, unhurried time in nature has real, measurable benefits backed by decades of research.

The NHS notes that time outdoors is linked to reduced anxiety, better sleep, and improved mood. Calm has written thoughtfully about the restorative effect of natural environments on a stressed mind. The Mental Health Foundation found that 45% of people reported that visiting green spaces helped them cope during times of stress.

Day camping is particularly effective at:

• Reducing stress by stepping away from screens and schedules
• Strengthening relationships through shared and unhurried time together
• Improving focus, because nature restores the kind of soft, open attention that modern life steadily depletes
• Building a sustainable habit, because the barrier to entry is genuinely so low

That last point matters more than it might seem. A one-off camping holiday is wonderful, but a regular day camping practice, once a month or once a season, can genuinely shift how you relate to the outdoors and to the people you bring with you.

For more on the connection between camping and relationships, explore the Collette Costello journal. It is something we return to often and write about with real conviction.

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Eco-Conscious Day Camping: Leaving No Trace

If you want your time outdoors to leave as little trace as possible, there are some simple and meaningful things you can do.

A few easy habits that make a real difference:

• Pack a reusable bag for rubbish and leave your spot cleaner than you found it
• Choose natural fibre blankets and accessories where you can. Our natural fibres guide is a good starting point
• Use solid sunscreen and plastic-free toiletries when you are near water
• Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics entirely
• Follow the countryside code and stay on designated paths where required

Our guide to 50 ways to make your camping more sustainable is full of practical, achievable ideas for anyone who wants to enjoy nature responsibly. And if solar charging for your devices appeals, our solar panels for camping guide covers everything from small portable panels to full off-grid setups.

The Leave No Trace Centre for Outdoor Ethics and Keep Britain Tidy are also excellent external resources for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of responsible outdoor access.

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Day Camping Is for Everyone

You do not need experience. You do not need expensive kit. You do not need a whole weekend free.

You just need three things:

• Somewhere beautiful to go
• Something warm and comfortable to sit on
• A willingness to let the day take its time

A good camping blanket, a quiet spot, and a few unhurried hours can truly be enough.

If you want to keep exploring from here, the Collette Costello blog has everything from beginner guides to deeper reads on camping culture, wellbeing, and the kind of kit that genuinely lasts. We also write about bell tents and their pros and cons and have a full round-up of the top 10 camping shops in the UK if you are ready to invest in your kit.

If you are thinking about a full overnight trip, our guide to glamping in the UK is a lovely place to start dreaming. And for families with dogs, our guide to the top 10 dog-friendly family festivals in the UK might spark some ideas too.

For now, find your spot, take your blanket, and go spend a day outside.

You will be glad you did.

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Want more like this? Browse the full blog or read our story to find out what Collette Costello is all about.

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Best Camping Staycations in the UK for 2026

There is a particular kind of happiness that only comes from waking up outside. The smell of damp grass, a mug of something hot, and nothing on the agenda except deciding which direction to walk. No airport queues, no overpriced hotel breakfasts, no suitcase to drag across a terminal. Just fresh air, open space, and the very best version of Britain right outside your tent.

2026 is shaping up to be the biggest year for UK camping in living memory. Here is why:

• Overseas travel costs have pushed more families toward brilliant, affordable staycations
• Nature based wellness is now one of the fastest growing travel motivations in the UK
• Eco-conscious travellers are choosing low impact holidays closer to home
• The Camping and Caravanning Club is reporting record membership numbers
• Digital detox holidays are among the most searched travel categories of the year
• And quite simply, people are remembering how good it feels to be outside

The science backs it up too. Research consistently shows the top 10 science-backed health benefits of being in nature, from lower cortisol levels to better sleep and sharper focus. And once you start digging into the full list of wellbeing benefits of camping, it is hard to argue with a weekend under canvas.

So. Where to go? These are the best camping staycations in the UK for 2026, chosen for scenery, atmosphere, accessibility, and that hard-to-define quality of making you feel properly alive.

Before you start planning, it is worth bookmarking the top 10 camping essentials for beginners and the best UK campsites 2026 ultimate guide to help narrow down your perfect pitch.

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1. Cornwall: The Classic Beach Camping Staycation

Cornwall has been pulling people toward its coastline for generations, and in 2026 it shows absolutely no sign of slowing down. It consistently tops UK camping searches, and for good reason. The combination of surf beaches, dramatic clifftop paths, friendly campsites, and genuinely spectacular light makes it one of those places that feels like a holiday the moment you arrive.

Visit Cornwall reports that camping is now one of the top accommodation choices for first-time visitors to the county, and coastal bookings have surged as more travellers discover that a well-chosen campsite beats a bland hotel hands down.

Why Cornwall tops the list:

• World class surfing at Newquay and Fistral Beach
• Breathtaking clifftop hiking along the South West Coast Path
• Direct beach access at dozens of campsites
• A growing number of sustainable campsites leading the way on eco travel
• Family friendly holiday parks with excellent modern facilities
• Luxury glamping options with genuine sea views

The beaches around Newquay suit surfers and families perfectly. St Ives offers a more relaxed, creative atmosphere with extraordinary light that has attracted artists for over a century. Padstow suits food lovers, and the walk between Padstow and Rock is one of the finest coastal stretches in England. For something quieter and more remote, Porthcurno sits at the very tip of the peninsula with a beach that looks more Mediterranean than Cornish.

Where to stay:

• Trevella Park — multi award winning family park near Crantock Beach
• Mother Ivey’s Bay Holiday Park — clifftop views near Padstow that genuinely take the breath away
• Mount Pleasant Eco Park — Cornwall’s leading eco campsite, sitting beautifully among the best sustainable sites in Britain

For more inspiration, the Hipcamp Cornwall guide and The Guardian’s best Cornwall campsites are excellent starting points.

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2. The Lake District: Camping for Hikers, Swimmers, and Slow Travellers

There are places in Britain that earn the word breathtaking, and the Lake District is one of them. Fells that seem to go on forever, lakes so still they mirror the sky, villages built from the same grey stone as the mountains above them. It is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and stay longer than you planned.

Wellness travel and slow tourism are driving huge growth in the region right now. The Lake District National Park attracts over 19 million visitors a year, and camping remains one of the most rewarding and affordable ways to experience it. The wild swimming culture, championed by Outdoor Swimmer magazine, has introduced a whole new generation to the joy of cold water in beautiful places.

Why the Lake District deserves its reputation:

• Unrivalled national park scenery and mountain landscapes
• Outstanding hiking on Wainwright trails for every level of walker
• A thriving wild swimming culture at Ullswater, Windermere, and beyond
• Luxury shepherd huts and pods for those who want comfort alongside the outdoors
• Easy access from Manchester, Leeds, and Liverpool
• Deep alignment with the real wellbeing benefits of camping

Windermere and Keswick are the most accessible bases, both offering excellent walking, independent cafés, and easy access to the fells. Ullswater is arguably the most beautiful of the lakes, particularly in the early morning before the crowds arrive. Borrowdale is wilder and quieter, the kind of valley that feels genuinely remote even on a busy August weekend.

Where to stay:

• Great Langdale Campsite — National Trust site in one of the most spectacular valleys in England, winner of Campsite of the Year 2026
• Park Cliffe Camping and Caravan Estate — beautifully positioned above Windermere with views that justify every penny
• Castlerigg Hall — panoramic mountain views near Keswick with an atmosphere that is genuinely hard to beat

The Hipcamp Lake District guide and Visit Lake District official site cover everything from walking routes to wild swimming spots.

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3. The Scottish Highlands: Adventure, Wilderness, and Wild Camping at Its Best

If the Lake District is breathtaking, the Scottish Highlands are something else entirely. This is landscape on a different scale. Mountains that disappear into cloud, lochs that stretch to the horizon, glens so quiet you can hear your own heartbeat. It has become one of Europe’s most talked-about camping destinations, and adventure travellers are arriving in record numbers for 2026.

Scotland has something no other part of the UK can offer: a legal right to camp. The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 gives responsible campers access to most land, which is why this is the natural home of wild camping in the UK. Pair that with the legendary North Coast 500 road trip and you have one of the great road trip and camping combinations in the world.

What makes the Highlands unmissable:

• Legal right to camp on most land under the Land Reform Act
• Epic mountain scenery including Ben Nevis and the Cairngorms
• Outstanding stargazing in designated dark sky areas
• A genuine wild camping culture with deep outdoor tradition
• Campervan road trips along the NC500 and beyond
• Perfect for longer off grid adventures with solar power
• Deep connection with the science backed health benefits of being outdoors

The Isle of Skye draws the biggest crowds, and for good reason. The Cuillin ridge is dramatic in every weather condition, and the combination of mountains, sea, and constantly shifting light is extraordinary. Glencoe has a darker, more brooding atmosphere that many campers prefer. The Cairngorms National Park is vast and genuinely remote, ideal for multi-day hiking and the kind of stargazing that recalibrates your sense of scale. Torridon, in the far northwest, is among the most ancient landscapes in Europe.

Where to stay:

• Glenbrittle Campsite — voted the number one UK campsite by The Daily Telegraph, at the foot of the Cuillin on Skye
• Red Squirrel Campsite — riverside camping in the heart of Glencoe, the closest thing to wild camping with proper facilities
• Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan — tucked inside the Cairngorms in ancient Caledonian woodland

For deeper planning, the Visit Scotland camping guide and Lonely Planet Scottish Highlands are both superb resources.

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4. Eryri (Snowdonia): The Welsh Mountain Camping Experience

Wales does not get the same global attention as Scotland or the Lake District, and that is precisely what makes it such a rewarding camping destination. The mountains are serious, the scenery is genuinely stunning, and the prices are notably kinder on the wallet. Eryri National Park, known until recently as Snowdonia, is at the heart of it.

Visit Wales reports consistent growth in camping enquiries, with the Welsh national parks seeing strong demand for summer 2026.

Why Eryri is worth the journey:

• World class hiking from Snowdon to the quieter Glyderau and Carneddau ranges
• Thrilling adventure at Zip World for families and adrenaline seekers
• Beautiful lakeside camping at Llyn Gwynant and Bala
• Notably lower costs than many English national park destinations
• Excellent base for exploring the best sustainable campsites in the UK
• Easy drive from the Midlands and northwest England

Llyn Gwynant Campsite is one of the most photographed campsites in Wales, sitting right on the edge of the lake with Snowdon looming behind. Shell Island near Barmouth is one of Europe’s largest campsites, set on a tidal island with a completely unique atmosphere. Graig Wen is an eco award winning farm campsite with spectacular estuary views.

For the best site-finding resource, the Hipcamp Wales guide is comprehensive, and the Eryri National Park official site covers trail maps and responsible camping guidance.

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5. Northumberland: Britain’s Best Kept Camping Secret

Ask most people outside the north of England where to go for a quiet, atmospheric, genuinely special camping holiday and very few will say Northumberland. That is their loss and your gain. This is one of Britain’s most underrated landscapes: empty beaches, ancient castles, vast forest, and some of the darkest skies in the entire northern hemisphere.

The Northumberland International Dark Sky Park at Kielder covers over 1,500 square kilometres, making it the largest protected dark sky area in Europe. On a clear night, the Milky Way is visible with the naked eye. The Kielder Observatory runs public events throughout the year that are well worth booking alongside your campsite.

What makes Northumberland so special:

• Europe’s largest dark sky park for unforgettable stargazing
• Bamburgh Castle sitting directly above wide, empty golden beaches
• Holy Island (Lindisfarne) accessible only at low tide across a causeway — one of the most atmospheric places in Britain
• Virtually no crowds compared to southern coastal destinations
• Outstanding bird watching at the Farne Islands and coastal reserves
• Perfect alignment with the mental health benefits of time in nature

Where to stay:

• Budle Bay Campsite — near Bamburgh with stunning coastal views and dark sky access
• Tranwell Farm — double award winner for Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year 2025 and 2026, peaceful and eco-friendly near Morpeth
• Kielder Campsite — inside the dark sky park itself for the full stargazing experience

The Visit Northumberland site and Northumberland National Park are the best resources for planning a trip that goes beyond the obvious.

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The Trends Shaping UK Camping in 2026

It is worth understanding what is driving the camping boom, because it helps explain why these holidays feel so different to a package trip. This is not just people trying to save money. It is a genuine shift in what people want from their time off.

The biggest forces reshaping UK camping right now:

• Eco-conscious travel at the heart of every booking decision — the full guide to 50 ways to make your camping trip more sustainable is essential reading
• Glamping making camping accessible to people who previously ruled it out — browse the top 10 glamping campsites UK 2026 to see how far the offer has evolved
• Bell tents as a popular first step into comfortable outdoor living — the bell tents pros and cons guide is a genuinely useful read
• Dog friendly travel driving huge demand — the top 10 dog friendly family festivals UK 2026 reflects just how much appetite there is
• Dark sky tourism drawing visitors to Northumberland, Dartmoor, and the Scottish Highlands
• Wellness focused nature breaks backed by decades of research

Natural England and The Wildlife Trusts both highlight the growing importance of accessible outdoor spaces for national wellbeing, a trend that maps directly onto the rise of camping across every age group.

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How to Book Your 2026 Camping Staycation

A little forward planning makes an enormous difference. These are the things worth knowing before you commit.

Book early and be specific. Premium UK campsites are filling fast for summer 2026, particularly school holiday weekends at coastal and national park destinations. Platforms like Pitchup and Hipcamp UK make it easy to compare locations, read reviews, and secure the right pitch.

Travel in the shoulder season. May, June, and September consistently offer the best balance of good weather, lower prices, and quieter sites. These months also align perfectly with the day camping guide for the UK for anyone wanting to try a shorter outdoor experience first.

Check what the site actually offers. The best modern campsites now go well beyond a field and a standpipe:

• Hot showers and well-maintained facilities
• Fire pits and communal cooking areas
• Farm shops, cafés, and locally sourced produce
• EV charging for electric vehicles
• Wi-Fi where you want it, wilderness where you do not

Pack thoughtfully for British weather:

• Start with the top 10 camping essentials for beginners checklist
• Add a quality camping blanket wrap for cool evenings around the fire
• Pack one of the top 10 festival raincoats for camping regardless of the forecast
• Find the best gear at the top 10 camping shops in the UK
• Read 10 easy ways to stay cosy when camping before you leave

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Get Outside This Summer

Camping staycations in the UK have become something genuinely special. Not a compromise on a foreign holiday. Not a budget option. A brilliant, nourishing, memorable way to experience a country that has more to offer than most people living here have ever discovered.

• Beach sunsets in Cornwall
• Mountain mornings in Snowdonia
• Starlit nights in Northumberland
• Lochside evenings in the Highlands

The UK holds all of this, and most of it is only a few hours from your front door.

If you are new to camping life, the wild camping guide for beginners opens up a whole new level of adventure.

Book early, pack your blanket, light the fire, and get outside. The best summer you have had in years might be waiting in a field somewhere just down the road.

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Bell tents have surged in popularity in recent years, especially with the rise of glamping, an outdoor experience that blends nature with comfort. Recognisable by their circular footprint, central pole, and sloping canvas sides, bell tents offer a unique alternative to traditional camping.

This guide brings everything together: what bell tents are, their advantages and disadvantages, where you can try them in the UK, and expert resources to learn more.

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What Is a Bell Tent?

A bell tent is a spacious, single-pole tent—traditionally made from breathable cotton canvas—supported by a central mast and tensioned with guy ropes. The design creates a roomy, airy interior, often tall enough to stand in, making it ideal for both casual camping and luxury glamping setups.

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Pros of Bell Tents

1. Spacious and Comfortable

Bell tents offer significantly more headroom and floor space than standard tents. You can stand upright, add furniture, and comfortably accommodate multiple people.

2. Ideal for Glamping

Their aesthetic appeal and size make them perfect for “glamorous camping.” Many people furnish them with rugs, beds, and lighting for a cosy, boutique feel.

3. Durable and Breathable Materials

Canvas construction is tough and long-lasting. It also allows airflow, reducing condensation compared to synthetic tents.

4. Good Temperature Regulation

Bell tents stay cooler in summer and warmer in colder weather. Some even support wood-burning stoves, extending their use into winter.

5. Simple Structure

Despite their size, they are relatively straightforward to pitch thanks to a central pole design.

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Cons of Bell Tents

1. Heavy and Bulky

Canvas tents are much heavier than modern lightweight tents, making them unsuitable for backpacking.

2. Slow to Dry

If packed away wet, they can develop mould or mildew, so drying is essential.

3. Higher Cost

Bell tents are generally more expensive due to their size and materials.

4. Requires Space

They need a large, flat area for setup, including space for guy lines.

5. Maintenance Required

Canvas needs care—cleaning, drying, and occasional waterproofing.

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Where to Stay in a Bell Tent (UK Glamping Sites)

If you’d like to try a bell tent before investing in one, these UK glamping sites offer ready-made experiences:

• Bell Tent Glamping – Woodland and coastal setting with furnished tents.
• Big Skies Cotswold Glamping – Scenic countryside views and peaceful surroundings.
• Cuddfan Glamping – A “wild glamping” experience in the Brecon Beacons.
• Big Sky Hideaway – Highly rated farm-based retreat with tranquil surroundings.
• Hammonds Glamping – Boutique-style glamping close to London.
• Caracol Glamping – Stylish bell tents with thoughtful interior design.
• Plum Tree Glamping – Bell tents plus quirky stays like yurts and railway wagons.
• Camp De Lank Cornwall – A mix of traditional camping and bell tent glamping near Bodmin Moor.
• Bell Tent Village Parks – Multiple UK locations with fully equipped bell tents.

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Further Reading: Top Articles on Bell Tent Glamping

For deeper insight, these expert resources explore trends, buying advice, and real-world use:

• Bell Tent UK – Advantages and Disadvantages of a Bell Tent
• The Bell Tent Shop – Glamping Trends
• CamperNation – Ultimate Guide to Bell Tents
• Bell Tent Village Parks – Glamping Experience Guide
• Hipcamp – Bell Tent Glamping UK
• Outdoors Magic – Best Bell Tents Guide

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Who Should Consider a Bell Tent?

Bell tents are ideal for:

• Family camping trips
• Festivals and events
• Glamping businesses
• Longer stays in one location

They’re best suited to campers who prioritise comfort, space, and atmosphere over portability.

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Final Thoughts

Bell tents strike a balance between traditional camping and modern comfort. While they require more effort in transport and maintenance, they excel in creating a spacious, stylish, and memorable outdoor experience.

Bottom line: If you value comfort, aesthetics, and a more relaxed camping setup, a bell tent—or a stay in one—can be a worthwhile investment.

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If you are searching for the best UK campsites 2026, you are in the right place. Camping in the UK continues to grow in popularity as more people look for affordable, nature-focused holidays close to home. From coastal escapes to peaceful woodland retreats, the UK offers some of the most diverse camping experiences in Europe.

This guide explores where to go, how to choose the best campsites in the UK, and trusted platforms to help you plan your next outdoor adventure.

Why Camping in the UK is One of the Top Holiday Trends in 2026

Camping in the UK has become one of the most searched travel trends for 2026 thanks to its flexibility, affordability, and access to stunning natural landscapes.

People are increasingly choosing camping holidays because:

• It is budget-friendly compared to hotels
• It offers direct access to nature and outdoor activities
• There are thousands of campsites across the UK
• It is suitable for families, couples, and solo travellers
• Glamping options make it more comfortable than ever

Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a longer summer holiday, UK camping sites offer something for everyone.

Best UK Campsites 2026: Where to Find Top Rated Locations

When searching for the best UK campsites 2026, it helps to use trusted booking platforms that list verified reviews and high-quality locations.

Pitch-up UK Campsites

Pitch-up is one of the leading platforms for finding and booking campsites across the UK. It features thousands of options, including countryside parks, coastal sites, and luxury glamping stays. It is ideal for comparing prices, availability, and reviews in one place.

Camping and Caravanning Club Sites

Camping and Caravanning Club offers some of the most well maintained and highly rated campsites in the UK. With over a century of experience, it remains one of the most trusted organisations for camping holidays and touring stays.

Hipcamp Unique Stays

Hip-camp specialises in unique camping experiences across the UK. From boutique campsites to eco retreats and hidden countryside gems, it is perfect for travellers looking for something different from traditional campsites.

Forestry England Campsites

Forestry England operates woodland campsites in some of the most beautiful forest locations in England. These sites are ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and peaceful nature escapes.

Top Types of Camping Experiences in the UK 2026

Coastal Campsites UK

Coastal camping remains one of the most searched camping experiences in 2026. Popular destinations include Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and North Wales, offering sea views, beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

Woodland Camping UK

Forest and woodland campsites provide a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. These sites are perfect for walking holidays, wildlife spotting, and relaxing weekends.

National Park Camping UK

Some of the best UK campsites 2026 are located in national parks such as:

• Lake District
• Peak District
• Snowdonia
• Yorkshire Dales

These areas offer some of the most iconic landscapes in the UK.

Glamping UK 2026

Glamping continues to trend in 2026, combining nature with comfort. Expect luxury pods, safari tents, and cabins with real beds, heating, and private facilities.

What to Pack for UK Camping Trips

To get the most out of your camping experience in the UK, make sure you are prepared for changing weather conditions.

Essential items include:

• Waterproof jacket and warm clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camping blanket for cold evenings
• Portable cooking equipment
• Torch or headlamp
• Power bank for devices
• Reusable water bottle

Planning the Best UK Camping Trip in 2026

Finding the best UK campsites 2026 is easier than ever, thanks to trusted platforms and a wide variety of locations across the country. Whether you prefer wild coastal views, peaceful forests, or luxury glamping, the UK has a campsite for every type of traveller.

Camping remains one of the best ways to experience the outdoors, disconnect from everyday stress, and explore the natural beauty of the UK.

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