Campers have chosen their favourite five sites in the country.
From breathtaking scenery and spectacular surroundings to fun-filled family activities and back-to-nature charm, the diversity of the UK’s campsites is encapsulated by the locations named as the Cotswold Outdoor Britain’s Best Campsites.
Cotswold Outdoor has been working with VisitEngland and Scotland Outdoors to identify the best sites.
Campers from across the UK were asked to put forward their favourite sites with the judging panel selecting the five best based on location, facilities, customer service, entertainment and their beautiful outdoor settings.
The top five campsites will feature on a Britain’s Best Campsites map on cotswoldoutdoor.com, and have also received a certificate and a digital badge for their own website.
Dave Housley, senior camping equipment buyer at Cotswold Outdoor, said; “Camping is the perfect way to get out and explore everything our country has to offer.
"With such an eclectic array of accommodation, from eco-pods and yurts to native American style tipis, we’re thrilled to showcase the amazing variety of campsites enjoyed by families across the UK."
The five winners of the Cotswold Outdoor Britain’s Best Campsite are as follows:
Marthrown of Mabie, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
Set in the middle of Mabie Forest near Dumfries, this quirky site offers a variety of unusual accommodation options, including a replica Iron Age Roundhouse, native American style Tipis and a Mongolian Yurt.
For the active family this is perfect as a base for 7stanes famous mountain bike trails, or for something a little more relaxed, enjoy the luxury of an onsite hot tub and sauna under the stars.
Open all year round, check website for latest prices: marthrownofmabie.com
Nantcol Waterfalls, Llanbedr, North Wales
Nestled in a valley beside the Rhinog Mountains, this level campsite is a stone’s throw away from the river and waterfalls and only two miles from Shell Island and its golden sandy beaches.
All pitches have their own campfire pits, meaning campers can enjoy an evening, relaxing by the river with a glass of wine and maybe toasting a marshmallow or two!
In 2009 the site was developed to include new bathroom facilities for the disabled. During high season they even sell Welsh ice cream and a small selection of camping equipment in case you’ve forgotten anything!
Open all year round, check website for latest prices: nantcolwaterfalls.co.uk
Great Langdale, Near Ambleside, Lake District
Run by the National Trust this is a superb location for rock climbing and hill walking, and is a great site for groups as well as having a separate field for family camping.
For something a little different, try one of their camping pods suitable for two adults and one child.
Locally built from wood, double glazed and insulated with sheep wool these cosy pods will keep you warm even in the winter months.
Be sure to check out the Old Dungeon Ghyll and the Stickle Barn for a well deserved drink after a long day on the fells.
Open all year round, check website for latest prices: nationaltrust.org.uk
Applecross Campsite, Ross-Shire, Scotland
Situated in the Highlands of Scotland near the small village of Ross-Shire, this remote site offers spectacular views of the Outer Hebrides and the Kintali mountains.
With no mobile phone reception the emphasis here in on tranquillity and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Their heated camping huts are suitable for up to four adults and are fully insulated and double glazed for a refreshing alternative to camping. Campers can wind down from an adventurous day at the Applecross Inn with excellent food and quality beers.
Open April until November. applecross.uk.com/campsite
Billycan Camping, Arundel, West Sussex
Situated in 650 acres of farmland, Billycan Camping is a campsite with a difference. This eco-friendly site has no electricity and eco friendly bathroom facilities.
Use Victorian wash bowls and jugs to wash up and stay in one of the unique fully-fitted canvas bell tents, lit by a pathway of illuminated tea lights.
A camp stew is cooked up on Friday nights, followed by toasted marshmallows over the campfire.
A Saturday breakfast hamper is also provided which includes fresh coffee, local organic eggs, bacon from the butchers and bread from the local baker.
The Sussex coastline provides many beaches and nearby Climping and Littlehampton are only a five-minute drive from the campsite.
Open May to September. billycancamping.co.uk
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