Six Escapes Within 1 Hour from London to Go Camping

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature at these six camping destinations within an hour’s drive from London. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a quick overnight escape, these picturesque spots offer the perfect opportunity to unwind, relax, and recharge.

1. Epping Forest

Located just 30 minutes from central London, Epping Forest is a sprawling ancient woodland that offers a tranquil setting for camping and outdoor activities. Pitch your tent beneath the towering trees, explore scenic walking trails, and enjoy picnics by the tranquil lakes and streams. Epping Forest covers approximately 2,400 hectares and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With designated camping areas and basic facilities available, Epping Forest offers a convenient and immersive camping experience close to the city.

2. Surrey Hills

Nestled in the heart of the Surrey countryside, the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is an idyllic destination for camping and outdoor adventures. Within an hour’s drive from London, you’ll find picturesque campsites surrounded by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and charming villages. The Surrey Hills cover an area of 422 square kilometers and offer a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Explore scenic trails that wind through ancient woodlands, open heathland, and peaceful meadows, and be sure to visit iconic landmarks such as Box Hill and Leith Hill Tower. With its stunning scenery and tranquil ambiance, Surrey Hills provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable camping getaway.

3. Ashdown Forest

Escape to the enchanting landscapes of Ashdown Forest, located just an hour’s drive south of London. Best known as the setting for A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh stories, this sprawling heathland offers a peaceful retreat for camping, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Ashdown Forest covers an area of 2,500 acres and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and a variety of bird species. Explore scenic walking trails that lead through ancient woodlands, across heathland, and along tranquil streams, and be sure to visit iconic landmarks such as the “Galleon’s Lap” and “Hundred Acre Wood.” With its rich literary heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, Ashdown Forest offers a truly magical camping experience for visitors of all ages.

4. Lee Valley Regional Park

Stretching across the borders of Greater London, Essex, and Hertfordshire, Lee Valley Regional Park is a vast green oasis offering a variety of camping options within an hour’s drive from central London. Camp beside tranquil rivers, cycle along scenic trails, and explore nature reserves teeming with wildlife. Lee Valley Regional Park covers an area of 10,000 acres and offers a wealth of recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, and birdwatching. Explore scenic trails that wind through wetlands, woodlands, and wildflower meadows, and be sure to visit iconic landmarks such as Waltham Abbey and the Olympic Park. With its tranquil riverside setting and abundance of recreational facilities, Lee Valley Regional Park provides the perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

5. Seven Sisters Country Park

Discover the dramatic coastline of the Seven Sisters Country Park, located just 90 minutes from London. Set up camp along the picturesque cliffs overlooking the English Channel, explore scenic walking trails, and enjoy breathtaking views of the iconic chalk cliffs and rolling countryside. Seven Sisters Country Park covers an area of 280 hectares and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and beachcombing. Explore scenic trails that wind through coastal heathland, meander along the banks of the Cuckmere River, and climb to the top of Beachy Head for panoramic views of the coast. With its dramatic landscapes and coastal charm, Seven Sisters Country Park offers a memorable camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

6. Essex Coast

Escape to the pristine beaches and charming seaside towns of the Essex Coast, located within an hour’s drive east of London. Set up camp beside the sand dunes, enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the sandy shores, and explore quaint coastal villages with their traditional pubs and seafood restaurants. The Essex Coast covers a stretch of coastline that extends from the Thames Estuary to the Suffolk border and offers a variety of camping options, from secluded beachside campsites to family-friendly holiday parks. Spend your days exploring the rugged coastline, with its sandy beaches, rocky coves, and hidden tidal pools, or venture inland to explore historic landmarks such as Colchester Castle and the medieval town of Mersea. With its laid-back atmosphere and scenic beauty, the Essex Coast provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing seaside camping getaway.

With these six extensive escapes just a stone’s throw away from London, you can trade the urban jungle for the great outdoors and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the British countryside.