The camping season is fast approaching and finding the perfect campsite is becoming a priority for many holidaymakers
As warmer weather and lighter nights draw near many people are beginning to think of getting outside. Camping is one of the popular ways of enjoying a cheaper break.
Whether it is for a weekend away slotted between work and school or a full on trip for a week or longer it can work out less costly than hotels or other holiday accommodation. And it can also be great fun relaxing around campfires or chilling with a drink and good company.
But finding the right site is essential as they come in all shapes and sizes. You can find everything from a tranquil child-free haven to a family-filled location where the kids can make new friends and have fun.
“Every year we see more people discovering the joy of camping across the UK’s beautiful countryside,” comments Andy Halliday, Founder of Lexrope , a UK-based company specialising in outdoor camping gear and accessories. “With so many wonderful options available, we wanted to help campers discover the very best sites the country has to offer.”
Andy and his team at Lexrope have put hundreds of UK campsites under the microscope to pin down the hotspots for camping enthusiasts. They’ve looked at monthly search volumes, the number of reviews on Campsites.co.uk, star-ratings, and even the popularity on Instagram to arrive at their unique “Camping Popularity Score”.
Each aspect was given an even 25% split in their formula to spot the true gems of the UK camping scene. Andy added: “These top camping spots are incredibly popular for good reason, but this means they book up lightning-fast.
“I always recommend securing your pitch at least three months ahead, especially for summer weekends and bank holidays. If you’re set on experiencing these camping gems but can’t get a booking, consider visiting during shoulder seasons – May, early June or September offer gorgeous weather with half the crowds. School term-time weekdays are like hitting the camping jackpot for those without kids.
“Don’t despair if these sites are full – most have equally brilliant alternatives nearby. For example, if Highlands End is booked, try Golden Cap Holiday Park just down the coast, or swap Barn Farm for Middlehills Farm in the same stunning part of the Peak District. And remember, sometimes the lesser-known sites offer those magical, crowd-free experiences that make for the most memorable camping adventures.”
Here are the 10 most popular sites found in the study. And below more details about the top five.
Rank
Campsite Name
Location
Camping Popularity Score
1
Highlands End Holiday Park
Bridport, Dorset
57.63
2
Barn Farm Campsite
Matlock, Derbyshire
55.92
3
Riverside Caravan Park
Bentham, North Yorkshire
45.91
4
Shottisham Campsite
Shottisham, Woodbridge, Suffolk
44.50
5
Dale Farm Rural Campsite
Great Longstone, Bakewell, Derbyshire
43.61
6
Wooda Farm Holiday Park
Bude, Cornwall
43.48
7
Plassey Holiday Park
Wrexham, Wrexham
41.89
8
Balloch O Dee
Newton Stewart, Dumfries and Galloway
39.90
9
The Hideaway at Baxby Manor
Amplecarr, York, North Yorkshire
39.17
10
Hurley Riverside Park
Hurley, Berkshire
36.66
1: Highlands End Holiday Park – Bridport, Dorset
Perched on the stunning Jurassic Coast, Highlands End Holiday Park takes the crown with an impressive score of 57.63. This Dorset gem draws in 18,100 monthly searches online, reflecting its massive popularity among UK campers.
With 153 reviews and a near-perfect rating of 4.84 on Campsites.co.uk, it’s clear that visitors are consistently delighted with their experiences here. “Highlands End offers that perfect combination of breathtaking sea views and excellent facilities,” explains Andy.
“Its location on the Jurassic Coast gives campers direct access to some of Britain’s most spectacular coastal walks, while still being close enough to charming local towns.”
2: Barn Farm Campsite – Matlock, Derbyshire
Coming in a close second with a score of 55.92, Barn Farm Campsite in the heart of the Peak District proves that inland camping can be just as appealing as coastal sites. With 1300 monthly searches and 989 glowing reviews averaging 4.86, this Derbyshire destination is clearly a hit with outdoor enthusiasts.
“The Peak District holds a special place in many campers’ hearts, and Barn Farm makes the most of its stunning location,” says Halliday. “What makes this site special is the balance between feeling remote and peaceful while still offering all the amenities families need for a comfortable stay.”
3. Riverside Caravan Park – Bentham, North Yorkshire
Securing the third spot with a score of 45.91, Riverside Caravan Park demonstrates why Yorkshire continues to be a camping favourite. The site pulls in 12,100 monthly searches and boasts 72 reviews with the highest average rating on their list at 4.91.
“Yorkshire’s dramatic landscapes are a huge draw, and Riverside Caravan Park puts you right in the middle of it all,” notes Halliday. “The mix of riverside pitches and proximity to both the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District makes it an ideal base for exploring multiple beauty spots in one trip.”
4. Shottisham Campsite – Shottisham, Woodbridge, Suffolk
Suffolk might not always get the attention of more famous camping regions, but Shottisham Campsite proves it shouldn’t be overlooked, scoring 44.50. Despite having fewer monthly searches (590) than some competitors, its 37 reviews and solid 4.78 rating show that those who discover it tend to love it.
“Suffolk offers a more tranquil camping experience compared to some of the busier destinations,” Halliday explains. “Shottisham’s popularity comes from offering that quintessential English countryside experience, with easy access to pretty coastal towns and peaceful beaches.”
5. Dale Farm Rural Campsite – Great Longstone, Bakewell, Derbyshire
Rounding out the top five with a score of 43.61, Dale Farm benefits from its prime location near Bakewell in the Peak District. With 2,400 monthly searches and 238 reviews scoring 4.5, it’s clearly beloved by many regular campers.
“The second Derbyshire site in our top five shows just how popular the Peak District is for camping,” says Halliday. “Dale Farm offers that perfect mix of rural charm and practical amenities. Its proximity to Bakewell means campers can easily pop into town for the famous Bakewell pudding after a day of hiking.”
