London, the bustling capital of England, is known for its vibrant city life, iconic landmarks, and rich history. However, what many people don't know is that the city is also home to some of the best campsites in the country. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking to experience the great outdoors for the first time, London offers a range of campsites that cater to all needs and preferences.
From luxury glamping sites to traditional camping spots, there's something for everyone in London's campsites. So, pack your tent, sleeping bag, and camping stove, and get ready for a unique adventure in the heart of the city. In this article, we'll explore the best campsites in London, so you can plan your next camping trip with ease.
Best Campsites in London
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Crystal Palace Caravan Club Site
Nestled in the heart of South London, Crystal Palace Caravan Club Site offers a peaceful and secluded camping experience. The site is located in the beautiful Crystal Palace Park and is surrounded by stunning gardens and lakes. The campsite offers well-maintained pitches, electric hook-ups, and modern facilities, including showers, laundry facilities, and a playground for children.
Activities to do at Crystal Palace caravan Club Site
Local Area Activities
Crystal Palace Caravan Club Site is located in a prime spot, surrounded by plenty of attractions and things to do. Here are some of the best local area activities to try out:
1. Explore Crystal Palace Park
Crystal Palace Park is a beautiful and expansive green space that's perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The park features a wide range of attractions, including a maze, a lake, and a children's playground. If you're looking for a little more adventure, there's also a dinosaur trail to explore.
2. Visit the Crystal Palace Museum
Located within the park, the Crystal Palace Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum is home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the original Crystal Palace, which was built for the Great Exhibition of 1851.
On-Site Activities
If you're looking to relax and unwind, there are plenty of on-site activities to enjoy at Crystal Palace Caravan Club Site. Here are some of the best:
1. Take a Dip in the Pool
Crystal Palace Caravan Club Site features a heated outdoor pool that's perfect for a refreshing swim. Whether you're looking to cool off on a hot day or just want to relax in the water, the pool is a great place to spend some time.
2. Enjoy a Game of Tennis
If you're feeling active, there's a tennis court on site that's available to guests. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, a game of tennis is a great way to get some exercise and have some fun.
3. Play a Game of Boules
Boules is a classic French game that's easy to learn and fun to play. Crystal Palace Caravan Club Site has its own boules pitch, so you can enjoy a game with family and friends.
Contact Details
Website: Crystal Palace Club Campsite
Tel: 020 8778 7155
2. Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site
If you're looking for a campsite that's close to the city but feels like you're in the countryside, Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site is the perfect choice. The site is located in a peaceful woodland setting and offers spacious pitches, electric hook-ups, and modern facilities, including showers, laundry facilities, and a dog-walking area.
Activities to do at Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site
Nature Walks
One of the best ways to appreciate the natural beauty of Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site is by taking a leisurely walk through its scenic trails. With miles of woodland and fields to explore, nature walks offer a chance to reconnect with nature and escape the stresses of everyday life. Here are some of the best nature walks to try at Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site:
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Bostall Woods Nature Reserve - This nature reserve is a must-visit for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation. The reserve is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including the Dartford warbler and the common lizard. There are also several trails to explore, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
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Lesnes Abbey Woods - This ancient woodland is steeped in history and offers a range of scenic trails to explore. From the tranquil ponds to the towering trees, Lesnes Abbey Woods is a great place to unwind and reconnect with nature.
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Thames Path - The Thames Path is a 184-mile long trail that follows the River Thames from its source in Gloucestershire to the Thames Barrier in London. The section of the trail that runs through Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site offers stunning views of the river and is a great place to spot wildlife.
Family-Friendly Fun
If you're travelling with children, Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. From outdoor adventures to indoor fun, here are some of the best activities to try:
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Go Ape! - Go Ape! is an outdoor adventure park that offers a range of activities, including zip-lining, tree-top courses, and obstacle courses. With challenges suitable for all ages, Go Ape! is a great way to spend a day with the family.
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Danson Park - Danson Park is a large public park located just a short drive from Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site. The park offers a range of activities, including playgrounds, boating lakes, and nature walks. There's also a cafe and plenty of picnic spots, making it the perfect place for a family day out.
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Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park - The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park is a nature reserve located just a short distance from Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site. The reserve offers a range of family-friendly activities, including pond-dipping, bird-watching, and nature walks. There's also a visitor centre and cafe, making it a great place to spend a few hours.
Contact Details
Website: Abbey Wood Club Campsite
Tel: 020 8311 7708
3. Home Farm Camping and Caravan Park
The site offers a range of pitches, including electric hook-ups, and modern facilities, including showers, laundry facilities, and a shop that sells essentials and snacks.
Activities to do at Home Farm Camping and Caravan Park
Visit Daws Hill Vineyard
Daws Hill Vineyard is a vineyard located in the town of Radnage, Buckinghamshire, England. The vineyard is situated on a south-facing slope of the Chiltern Hills, which provides an ideal microclimate for growing grapes. The vineyard was first planted in 2004 and currently has around 15,000 vines spread across 10 acres of land.
Daws Hill Vineyard produces a range of award-winning still and sparkling wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The grapes are hand-picked and carefully selected before being fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels.
Visitors are welcome to tour the vineyard, learn about the wine-making process, and taste the wines
Visit West Wycombe Village
West Wycombe Village is a charming and historic village located in the county of Buckinghamshire, England with cottages and inns dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. There are many reasons why you should consider visiting this village, including:
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Historic Buildings: West Wycombe Village is home to a number of historic buildings, including the stunning St. Lawrence Church, the West Wycombe Park and the Hellfire Caves. These buildings offer visitors a glimpse into the village's rich history and architecture.
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Natural Beauty: The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with rolling hills and scenic views. It's a perfect place to take a leisurely walk or hike, and there are plenty of trails to explore.
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Cultural Events: The village hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances. These events are a great way to experience the local culture and community.
Contact Details
Website: www.homefarmradnage.co.uk
Tel: 01494 484136
4. Theobalds Park Camping and Caravanning Club Site
Situated on the grounds of the historic Theobalds Park estate, this campsite offers a unique camping experience with a touch of luxury. The site offers spacious pitches, electric hook-ups, and modern facilities, including showers, laundry facilities, and a playground for children. There's also an on-site restaurant that serves delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
Activities to do at Theobalds Park Camping and Caravanning Club Site
1. Hiking and Biking
If you're an avid hiker or biker, you'll love exploring the beautiful trails and paths around Theobalds Park Camping and Caravanning Club Site. The area boasts a range of routes suitable for all levels of ability, from gentle strolls to challenging hill climbs. Some of the most popular trails include:
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The New River Path: This picturesque route follows the path of the New River, a man-made waterway that was built in the early 17th century to supply water to London. The path is relatively flat and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
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The Lea Valley Walk: This 50-mile trail follows the River Lea from its source in Luton to its confluence with the Thames at East India Dock Basin. The route passes through a range of landscapes, from rural countryside to bustling towns and cities.
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The Hertfordshire Way: This 195-mile circular route takes in some of the most beautiful countryside in the county, including rolling hills, meandering rivers, and picturesque villages.
2. Fishing
Theobalds Park Camping and Caravanning Club Site is a great destination for anglers looking to cast a line and catch some fish. The site boasts two well-stocked fishing lakes, which are home to a range of species including carp, roach, bream, and tench.
The lakes are open to both members and non-members, although anglers must hold a valid Environment Agency Rod License. Fishing permits can be purchased from the site's reception.
Contact Details
Website: Theobalds Park Camping Site
Tel: 01992 620604
5. The Camping and Caravanning Club, Chertsey
Located in the serene town of Chertsey, The Camping and Caravanning Club offers a peaceful camping experience. The site is located on the banks of the River Thames and offers several water-based activities, including fishing and boating. The campsite offers all modern amenities, including electric hook-ups, shower facilities, and laundry services. The site is also an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Activities to do The Camping and Caravanning Club
Exploring the Surrounding Countryside
One of the best things about The Camping and Caravanning Club, Chertsey is its proximity to some of the most beautiful countryside in Surrey. There are plenty of walking and cycling routes to explore, with something to suit all abilities.
If you're looking for something more challenging, why not take on the Thames Path National Trail, which runs right through the site? This 184-mile route takes you through some of the most stunning countryside in the UK and is a must for anyone who loves to hike.
Taking a Dip in the Site's Outdoor Pool
The Camping and Caravanning Club, Chertsey boasts an outdoor swimming pool, which is open from May to September. This is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer's day or to relax by the water's edge and soak up the sun.
Enjoying a Game of Tennis or Badminton
If you're feeling active, there are plenty of opportunities to get some exercise at The Camping and Caravanning Club, Chertsey. The site has tennis and badminton courts, which are free for guests to use. So, why not challenge your friends or family to a game and see who comes out on top?
Contact Details
Website: Chertsey Camping and Caravanning Club
Tel: 01932 562405
FAQs about Camping in London
Q: Is it safe to camp in London?
A: Yes, it's generally safe to camp in London. Most campsites have security measures in place to ensure the safety of campers and their belongings. However, it's always a good idea to take precautions and keep valuables locked away.
Q: What should I pack for a camping trip in London?
A: You should pack the usual camping essentials, including a tent, sleeping bag, camping stove, and cooking utensils. You should also bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop at night, and waterproof gear, as it can rain unexpectedly in London.
Q: Can I go camping in London all year round?
A: Most campsites in London are open all year round, but it's always best to check with the campsite beforehand to confirm their opening hours.
Q: Are there any restrictions on campfires at the campsites in London?
A: Yes, most campsites in London have restrictions on campfires. It's best to check with the campsite beforehand to confirm their policy on campfires.
Conclusion
London is not just a city of concrete jungles and towering buildings. It offers several campsites that provide an opportunity to experience nature and city life simultaneously. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, London has campsites that cater to all your needs. From basic tent pitches to luxurious glamping tents, London's campsites offer something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your tent, and head out to explore the best campsites in London for an unforgettable camping experience.