Campsites near Winchester

Explore dramatic coastlines and meet wild ponies on a Winchester camping excursion.

94% (1521 reviews)
94% (1521 reviews)

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12 top campsites near Winchester

98%
(31)

The Meadow @ Waples Mill

12 units · Tents8 acres · Dunmow, England
Spacious grass pitches in the green Essex countryside A 15-minute drive to Chelmsford; 40 minutes to Audley End Tractor rides on site; firepits provided for campfires. Rural walks, How about proper farm activities like tractor rides (ask site staff for details)? The place to find all this is The Meadow at Waples Mill, an Essex farm site between Chelmsford and Dunmow (and about 15 minutes’ drive from both). This family-friendly site is handy for walks on the Essex Way and other local footpaths, and tractor and trailer rides around the farm are organised on alternate days to give guests a glimpse into agricultural life. Activities complete for the day, it's time to chill out, and that should be easy here – all pitches have access to toilets and hot showers in a trailer close by, and firepits are provided so you can have a safe campfire (with wood available to buy on site and a great farm shop 10 minutes’ drive away for fireside snacks). Pitches themselves are large, well kept and well spaced within a meadow that backs onto the River Roding. Dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of places to take them for a walk nearby. London folk looking for a quick escape to the countryside, this is a place to bear in mind – it’s only about an hour and quarter by road from the city.
Campfires
Showers
from 
£24
 / night

Under £50

Dog-friendly getaways

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites near Winchester guide

Overview

Near the historic cathedral city of Winchester in South East England, discover a treasure trove of natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and overnight options for tent campers, caravan campers, and glampers. From the historically significant chalk valleys to the expansive South Downs National Park, explore sweeping landscapes in the quintessential British countryside. A short journey across the water reveals the Isle of Wight’s coastal magnificence, including some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. Back on the mainland, New Forest National Park offers a mosaic of ancient woodlands and heathlands, teeming with free-roaming ponies and dramatic hiking trails. Each attraction offers on-site accommodations from rustic tent pitches, Mongolian yurt rentals, or holiday parks with full hookups for caravans so campers can spend days immersed in Winchester’s natural splendour.

Where to go

South Downs National Park

A significant natural area near Winchester, South Downs National Park boasts diverse outdoor activities that immerse campers in England’s pristine countryside. Tread the 100-mile South Downs Way by foot or mountain bike, or marvel at the majestic white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Ascend to the summit of Ditchling Beacon for panoramic views at sunrise or sunset, or head to River Itchen for tranquil trout fishing. Whether campers are looking for rustic tent pitches, well-appointed caravan sites, or luxurious glamping yurts, South Downs delivers.

The Isle of Wight

For an island camping adventure, head to the Isle of Wight. Relish in country campsites nestled amid pastoral farms, enjoy peaceful strolls on serene footpaths, and look out for red squirrels, peregrine falcons, and Glanville fritillary butterflies. Newtown National Nature Reserve is a noteworthy tidal estuary and wetland for spotting wading birds and wildfowl. Nearby holiday parks with fully serviced caravan pitches or safari tent rentals offer easy access to Shanklin Beach or Hale Manor Lakes so campers can beat the crowds.

New Forest National Park

Thousands of New Forest ponies freely roam throughout New Forest National Park, about 20 minutes west of Winchester. The semi-feral ponies are owned by members of the common community, and their presence creates one of the most unique camping experiences in England. Enjoy a more rustic forest camping trip at one of the park’s tent pitches, or have a more comfortable holiday at glamping pods and shepherd’s huts. Remember to watch for vulnerable wading birds like stonechats and Dartford warblers that may be nesting in the heathlands.

When to go

The area around Winchester is generally driest and warmest from May to September. Summer months average temperatures around 22°C and are especially popular due to school holidays, so be sure to book pitches at camping parks well in advance. For cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, April and October offer a serene setting. Spring and fall also delight campers with blooming flowers, fall foliage, migratory birds, and excellent fishing opportunities.

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