‘This campsite feels like paradise’: readers’ favourite places to pitch in the UK

28.05.2024 - 11:27 / theguardian.com

At the foot of Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, and at the northern end of one of the Lake District’s most dramatic valleys is the National Trust campsite at Wasdale Head (basic grass pitch from £38 for two nights). As well as standard pitches there are heated camping pods, three tipis, a bell tent and campervan pitches. Great Gable and Pillar, two other famous fells, are a walk away. The location, at the foot of the mountains, with Lingmell Beck flowing past, is brilliant and there are enough facilities to make life easy but not detract from the camping feel. We haven’t climbed Scafell Pike yet, but even without doing that there was still enough for a good active trip.
Emma

Porth Iago Campsite is unusual in having a beautiful sunrise and a spectacular sunset. Pitch your tent on the cliffside for stunning views of the secluded beach. When the sun is shining in north Wales there’s no need to go abroad – we’d been in Portugal a few months before and the beach of Porth Iago was as good as the hidden spots we found along the Algarve. The place is dog-friendly, there are modern coin-operated showers, and a food truck visits selling breakfast butties and evening pizzas. Day visitors are welcome, but booking essential (email [email protected]) for overnight stays.
Lorna Rose Gill

At Delamont Country Park campsite (pitch from £10.95) on Strangford Lough I’ve saluted the sun coming up over the lough from the big hill a short walk away; quietly watched the lambs and birds from hides among the trees; had a hoot with my small children in the big playpark, pasting Galium aparine (sticky grass also called cleavers) to each other’s backs on the short walk to the site; and visited a serene area of the woods where the park owners let me and friends plant memorial oak saplings after the death of my mum. In the tent I listen intently to the amazing surround-sound dawn chorus in early summer.
AnnaJenny

Three miles from Gairloch, Sands Caravan and Camping (£27 for car, tent and two adults) is a must-visit in north-west Scotland. With views out to the northern tip of the Isle of Skye, the Big Sands area consists of a series of sand dunes and, with luck, beautiful sunsets. The Torridon mountains are just to the south and Inverewe gardens to the north. This spot held a special place in my childhood and remains perfect for families. From Gairloch there are whale-watching boat trips. The site offers camping pods and blends comfort (including a covered eating area with shared fridge and freezer) with the thrill of the great outdoors.
Anna

Guardian Travel readers' tips

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