If you’re looking to embark on a memorable camping adventure with your loved ones, the United Kingdom offers an array of breathtaking sites that are perfect for families. From the stunning coastlines of Cornwall to the lush landscapes of the Lake District, there is no shortage of picturesque locations to set up camp. In this article, we will explore the top 10 camping sites in the UK that cater specifically to families, ensuring an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and quality time spent together in the great outdoors. So grab your tents, pack your essentials, and get ready for an extraordinary family getaway amidst nature’s finest offerings.
1. New Forest National Park
1.1 Location
Located in the southern part of England, New Forest National Park is situated in Hampshire, approximately 90 miles southwest of London. The park covers an area of 566 square kilometers and is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, ancient woodlands, and diverse wildlife.
1.2 Activities
New Forest National Park offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy. You can explore the park’s many walking and cycling trails, where you’ll have the chance to spot wild ponies, deer, and other fascinating wildlife. Families can also indulge in horse riding, canoeing, kayaking, or even take a relaxing boat trip along the Beaulieu River.
1.3 Facilities
The park provides excellent facilities to cater to the needs of families. There are several visitor centers where you can obtain maps, guidebooks, and information about the park. You’ll also find picnic areas, toilets, and parking facilities conveniently located throughout the park.
1.4 Accommodation Options
New Forest National Park offers various accommodation options for families looking to spend a night or more in the area. You can choose from family-friendly campsites that provide all the necessary amenities, including shower and toilet facilities. There are also charming holiday cottages and bed and breakfast establishments available for those seeking a more traditional and comfortable stay.
2. Lake District National Park
2.1 Location
Nestled in the northwest corner of England, the Lake District National Park is a stunning destination for camping enthusiasts. It covers an expanse of approximately 2,362 square kilometers and is home to the highest mountain in England, Scafell Pike.
2.2 Activities
Families visiting the Lake District National Park can look forward to an array of exciting activities. The park offers many hiking trails suitable for all ages and abilities, with picturesque routes showcasing beautiful lakes, lush green valleys, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Families can also enjoy canoeing, sailing, or even a leisurely boat trip on one of the many lakes in the area.
2.3 Facilities
The Lake District National Park provides excellent facilities for families, including visitor centers where you can obtain maps, guides, and local information. There are also picnic spots, cafes, and toilets located throughout the park.
2.4 Accommodation Options
For families looking to stay overnight in the Lake District National Park, there are various accommodation options to suit every preference. From family-friendly campsites offering stunning views, to cozy holiday cottages nestled in the heart of the countryside, you’ll find the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate after a day of exploring.
3. Cairngorms National Park
3.1 Location
Situated in the eastern part of the Scottish Highlands, Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK. Spanning over 4,528 square kilometers, the park is a wonderful destination for families seeking outdoor adventures amidst stunning mountain landscapes.
3.2 Activities
Cairngorms National Park offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy. With its rugged terrain and numerous hiking trails, families can embark on exciting walks or challenging climbs to witness breathtaking views from the mountain peaks. The park is also home to several ski resorts, where families can engage in winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
3.3 Facilities
The park provides excellent facilities for families, including visitor centers where you can obtain maps, trail guides, and expert advice. There are also picnic areas and cafes where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the scenic surroundings. Toilet facilities and parking areas are conveniently located throughout the park.
3.4 Accommodation Options
Cairngorms National Park offers various accommodation options for families wishing to stay overnight. From family-friendly campsites equipped with modern facilities, to cozy lodges and hotels, there are plenty of choices to suit every budget and preference.
4. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
4.1 Location
Located in southwest Wales, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park boasts stunning coastal scenery with its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque harbors. The park covers approximately 620 square kilometers and offers families a chance to explore its unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife.
4.2 Activities
Families visiting Pembrokeshire Coast National Park can partake in numerous activities suitable for all ages. The park offers excellent opportunities for coastal walks, where you can admire the dramatic cliffs, spot marine life, and discover hidden coves. Families can also enjoy water activities such as surfing, kayaking, and boat trips to the nearby islands.
4.3 Facilities
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park provides a range of facilities for families to enjoy their visit. There are visitor centers where you can obtain information and guidance on exploring the park, as well as picnic areas and cafes for a refreshing break. Conveniently located toilets and parking facilities are available throughout the park.
4.4 Accommodation Options
There are various accommodation options available within and around Pembrokeshire Coast National Park to cater to the needs of families. Families can choose from family-friendly campsites offering stunning coastal views, or opt for cozy cottages and bed and breakfast establishments for a more comfortable stay.
5. Snowdonia National Park
5.1 Location
Situated in northwest Wales, Snowdonia National Park is renowned for its majestic mountains, stunning lakes, and diverse landscapes. Covering an area of 2,142 square kilometers, the park offers families a wealth of outdoor activities and natural beauty to explore.
5.2 Activities
Families visiting Snowdonia National Park can engage in a wide range of activities suitable for all ages and abilities. The park offers numerous hiking trails with varying degrees of difficulty, allowing families to enjoy scenic walks amidst breathtaking mountain views. Families can also enjoy pony trekking, mountain biking, or even embark on a thrilling zip-line adventure.
5.3 Facilities
Snowdonia National Park provides excellent facilities to ensure families have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. There are visitor centers where you can obtain maps, guides, and information about the park’s attractions and activities. The park also offers picnic areas, cafes, and toilet facilities conveniently located throughout the area.
5.4 Accommodation Options
When it comes to accommodation, Snowdonia National Park has a range of options to suit every family’s needs. You can choose from family-friendly campsites nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, or opt for cozy cottages and guesthouses for a more luxurious stay.
6. Peak District National Park
6.1 Location
Located in central England, the Peak District National Park offers families a diverse range of landscapes and outdoor activities to enjoy. Spanning over 1,400 square kilometers, the park is known for its rolling hills, limestone valleys, and charming towns and villages.
6.2 Activities
Families visiting the Peak District National Park can partake in a variety of activities suitable for all ages. The park offers numerous walking and cycling trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, allowing families to explore the stunning countryside at their own pace. Families can also enjoy rock climbing, caving, and even try their hand at watersports on one of the park’s reservoirs.
6.3 Facilities
The Peak District National Park provides excellent facilities for families to enjoy their visit. There are visitor centers where you can obtain maps, guidebooks, and information about the park’s attractions and activities. The park also offers picnic spots, cafes, and toilet facilities conveniently located throughout the area.
6.4 Accommodation Options
For families looking to stay overnight in the Peak District National Park, there are various accommodation options available. From family-friendly campsites equipped with modern facilities, to charming cottages and farmhouse stays, there is something to suit every family’s preferences.
7. Brecon Beacons National Park
7.1 Location
Situated in South Wales, the Brecon Beacons National Park offers families a captivating blend of stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Covering an area of 1,344 square kilometers, the park is known for its vast expanses of moorland, cascading waterfalls, and ancient castles.
7.2 Activities
The Brecon Beacons National Park offers families a wide range of activities to enjoy. Families can explore the park’s many walking trails, which cater to all abilities, and discover magnificent waterfalls, tranquil reservoirs, and mountain peaks. The park also provides opportunities for horse riding, canoeing, and even stargazing, thanks to its designation as an International Dark Sky Reserve.
7.3 Facilities
The park provides excellent facilities for families, including visitor centers where you can obtain maps, guides, and expert advice on exploring the area. The park also offers picnic spots, cafes, and toilet facilities conveniently located throughout.
7.4 Accommodation Options
There are various accommodation options available within and around Brecon Beacons National Park. Families can choose from family-friendly campsites offering breathtaking views, or opt for cozy cottages and charming inns for a more comfortable stay.
8. Yorkshire Dales National Park
8.1 Location
Located in northern England, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a haven for families seeking to explore the beauty of the countryside. Spanning over 2,178 square kilometers, the park offers a combination of rolling hills, limestone caves, and picturesque villages.
8.2 Activities
Families visiting the Yorkshire Dales National Park can embark on a variety of activities suitable for all ages. The park offers numerous walking trails, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes, providing families with the opportunity to enjoy stunning landscapes, vibrant wildflowers, and fascinating wildlife. Families can also explore underground caves, go cycling, or even take a steam train ride through the picturesque countryside.
8.3 Facilities
The Yorkshire Dales National Park provides excellent facilities for families to enjoy their visit. There are visitor centers where you can obtain maps, guidebooks, and information about the park’s attractions and activities. The park also offers picnic areas, cafes, and toilet facilities conveniently located throughout.
8.4 Accommodation Options
For families looking to stay overnight in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, there are various accommodation options available. From family-friendly campsites surrounded by stunning landscapes, to charming guesthouses and traditional farm stays, there is something to suit every family’s preferences.
9. Dartmoor National Park
9.1 Location
Located in Devon, Southwest England, Dartmoor National Park is a captivating destination for families seeking outdoor adventures amidst vast moorlands and ancient woodlands. The park covers an area of 954 square kilometers and is known for its granite tors, wild ponies, and historical landmarks.
9.2 Activities
Dartmoor National Park offers families a wide range of activities to enjoy. Families can explore the park’s many walking and cycling trails, which range from easy routes suitable for young children to more challenging hikes for older family members. Families can also enjoy horse riding, granite climbing, letterboxing (a type of treasure hunt), and even go wild swimming in the park’s rivers and reservoirs.
9.3 Facilities
The park provides excellent facilities for families, including visitor centers where you can obtain maps, guidebooks, and information about the park’s attractions and activities. The park also offers picnic spots, cafes, and toilet facilities conveniently located throughout.
9.4 Accommodation Options
Dartmoor National Park offers various accommodation options for families wishing to stay overnight. Families can choose from family-friendly campsites equipped with modern facilities, or opt for cozy bed and breakfast establishments and self-catering cottages for a more comfortable stay.
10. Norfolk Broads National Park
10.1 Location
Situated in Norfolk and Suffolk, East Anglia, the Norfolk Broads National Park is renowned for its stunning wetland landscapes and tranquil waterways. Covering an area of 303 square kilometers, the park is home to the largest protected wetland in Britain and offers families a chance to indulge in boating, wildlife spotting, and exploration.
10.2 Activities
Families visiting the Norfolk Broads National Park can enjoy a variety of activities on and off the water. Families can hire a boat and cruise along the serene waterways, spotting birds, and taking in the beautiful scenery. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, cycling along the picturesque countryside, and enjoying charming riverside walks.
10.3 Facilities
The Norfolk Broads National Park provides excellent facilities for families to enjoy their visit. There are visitor centers where you can obtain maps, guides, and information about the park’s attractions and activities. The park also offers picnic spots, cafes, and toilet facilities conveniently located throughout the area.
10.4 Accommodation Options
There are various accommodation options available within and around the Norfolk Broads National Park. Families can choose from family-friendly campsites offering waterside pitches, or opt for self-catering cottages and charming B&Bs for a more comfortable stay.
In conclusion, the United Kingdom is home to a diverse range of national parks that offer an abundance of activities and breathtaking landscapes for families to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventures in the mountains, coastal explorations, or tranquil countryside retreats, these top 10 camping sites in the UK provide the perfect opportunities for families to create unforgettable memories together. So pack your camping gear, gather your loved ones, and embark on a memorable outdoor adventure in one of these magnificent national parks in the UK!
