Do you ever feel like heading off into the middle of nowhere and losing yourself to the wonder of nature? I am sure all of you guys out there have had this feeling at least once in your life but haven’t got the time to travel to unravel the secrets of nature.
Well, it is never too late. Pack your bag, ditch the city for a few days, and go wild camping near London. Whether you want to escape the chaos of the city life or indulge in some glamping, we have selected the best campsites for you, all within a few hours or less of London.
Wild Camping in The South Downs
The South Down Way, 100 miles in length, runs from Winchester in the West to Eastbourne in the East, and is one of the best campsites for wild camping based in nearby London. If you are looking for a way to enjoy the countryside, then it’s worth camping out under the canvas.
The area offers an abundance of things to do and sights to see with a no-frills hassle-free campsite for the night. If you are planning on doing the South Downs Way, then you will need a bivvy bag for the journey as the area is not that remote. Do not forget to take plenty of water with you as water stops are few and far between.
Wild Camping in The High Weald
For those looking for breathtaking camping experience near London, you have no idea of what the High Weald has to offer. It is the fourth largest Area of Outstanding natural beauty in all of England and Wales.
The pleasant woodlands of the High Weald surround you with ancient history and beauty. The famous Ashdown Forest in the High Weald happens to be the South East’s largest area of heathland. It is also the place that inspired AA Milne to write “Winnie the Pooh”. Beech Estate and Wild Boar Wood are one of the largest campsites in the High Weald.
Wild Camping in The Chiltern Hills
For camping in the hills that make your feet itch velvety green landscapes, the Chiltern is unbeatable. From equestrian camping, quiet reclusive areas of woodland, to fields ideal for cycling and chilling with a group of friends, the place has a lot to offer.
The Chiltern Hills or “the Chilterns,” is a range of hills northwest of London. Officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is famous for incredibly picturesque views. Chiltern Forest and Ivinghoe Beacon, are the potential places to go wild camping in the Chilterns. The lovely countryside overlooks the stunning Chess Valley and has all you need for a memorable break.
Wild Camping in Surrey Hills
If you love the sounds of thousands of leaves rustling, and the last yawn of sunshine that glitters through the trees, then Surrey Hills is the place to be.
Camping and being in the Surrey Hills will give you the perspective and time to refocus your energy and introspect about life. The beautiful snow, the clear air, give you an opportunity to be clicked in the realm of nature. Leith Hill near Dorking has a lot of excellent wild camping spots. It is a pretty place that will not leave you disappointed if you decide on an evening of wild camping.
The key to wild camping is to set up your tent just before the sun goes down, and then to roll out as soon as the sun goes up. While packing for your wild camping trip make sure that you carry a pocket knife with you. It might come in handy during your expedition. There is another thing you should keep in mind – Do not litter! Make sure that whatever you take to wild camping spot should come back to civilization with you.