When you think of camping, you might envision serene nights under a starlit sky, marshmallows roasting over an open fire, and the comforting camaraderie of family and friends. But what if you could pair these traditional camping experiences with the vibrant local art and craft festivals the UK is renowned for? The answer lies in a range of campsites across the country, which not only offer a hearty dose of nature but also the opportunity to immerse yourselves in local culture and creativity.
East UK: Serenity and Art in Harmony
In the east of the UK, there’s a seamless blend of nature and artistry that transforms camping into a culturally rich experience.
Deepdale Backpackers and Camping is located on a farm in Burnham Deepdale, a small village in the east of England. Known for its friendly atmosphere and eco-friendly ethos, it is a paradise for campers looking for a unique experience. Along with your own tents, glamping options are available, offering a luxurious twist to your camping adventure.
The campsite’s location is its real charm, with the North Norfolk Coast at its doorstep, serving as a haven for wildlife and a scenic backdrop for your stay. But what makes it truly special is its close proximity to the annual Deepdale Festival. This festival celebrates local musicians and artists, allowing you to get a taste of the vibrant local culture.
Another place to consider is Deers’ Glade Caravan and Camping Park. Located in Norfolk, it provides an exciting blend of both worlds. It is an animal-friendly site, with a fantastic array of wildlife surrounding the park. Its address is well known among festival-goers as it is situated near the Norfolk Makers’ Festival, a must-attend event for craft enthusiasts.
South UK: A Fusion of Craft and Camping
In the south of the UK, the options abound for those who are equally enthusiastic about camping and local festivals.
Eweleaze Farm in Dorset is one such location. This farm turned campsite is renowned for its stunning cliff-top views and direct access to its private beach. You can opt for tent camping or invest in a bit more comfort with their onsite yurts and bell tents. This campsite becomes an art enthusiast’s dream destination in August when it hosts the annual Art in the Barn Festival.
For the food-loving campers, The Garlic Farm in the Isle of Wight is an unmissable destination. This working garlic farm offers a range of camping options, from simple tent sites to glamping in a collection of yurts and even holiday cottages. But this site really comes alive during the Garlic Festival, an extraordinary gathering of food and music with a unique twist.
UK Parks: Family-Friendly Camping with a Cultural Twist
When it comes to family-friendly camping combined with art and craft fairs, UK parks are a superb option.
Cotswold Farm Park in Gloucestershire is a family-friendly campsite offering a splendid holiday experience. With the promise of meeting farm animals and a superb array of camping options, including tents, caravans, and glamping pods, it is a paradise for children. The park itself is home to the Cotswold Craft Market, where local artisans showcase their wares.
Another family-friendly location is Park Cliffe Camping & Caravan Estate in the beautiful Lake District. The campsite offers a range of accommodation options from traditional tents to caravans and luxury holiday homes. The park is a stone’s throw away from the Holker Festival, a popular local event featuring arts, crafts, and food.
Art and Craft Festivals: The Ultimate Camping Companion
There’s something incredibly fulfilling about combining a passion for camping with a love for local arts and crafts. The opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, meet artisans, and perhaps even take home a piece of art is exciting and rewarding.
You’ll surely enjoy your stay at The Pop-Up Hotel during the Glastonbury Festival. This isn’t your typical campsite. It’s a pop-up luxury camp that appears during the world-renowned Glastonbury Festival. You can expect plush tents, quality food, and a high-end camping experience while you enjoy the festival’s lineup of music, dance, comedy, theatre, and, of course, crafts.
Another noteworthy mention is the Green Man Festival in Wales, where the camping experience is intertwined with the festival itself. This music and arts festival offers a camping site for families and groups, where meeting and interacting with artists is a part of the camping experience.
Each of these campsites offers a unique blend of culture and camping, providing you with a holiday experience like no other. So pack your tents, prepare your caravans, and get ready for a camping adventure that will not only nourish your love for nature but also satisfy your cultural curiosities.
North UK: The Junction of Nature, Art, and Craft
Moving towards the north of the UK, the bonding between camping and festivals gets even stronger.
Hillside Caravan Park located in North Yorkshire is ideal for a tranquil getaway. The award-winning, family-friendly holiday park is situated within the boundaries of the North York Moors National Park, presenting stunning views and numerous walking trails. The park is open year-round and provides an array of accommodations, from motorhome campervan spots to luxury holiday homes.
What sets Hillside Caravan Park apart is its accessibility to the annual Malton Food and Drink Festival held during the last weekend of May. With its Friday and Saturday celebration, you can savor and enjoy the best food and drink offerings from Yorkshire and beyond.
Wasdale National Trust Campsite is another gem in the Lake District. Nestled in a stunning valley, the campsite is open to tents, motorhomes, and campervans. Dog-friendly accommodations are also available, making it a favorite among pet-owners. The campsite is known for the annual Wasdale Art Crafts and Music Festival, which takes place every July. The festival showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople, turning the campsite into a hub of creativity.
Scotland: Blend Tradition, Culture, and Camping
Scotland, with its rugged landscape and rich history, provides a unique camping experience.
Port Ban Holiday Park in Argyll, West Scotland, is a seaside haven with breath-taking views of the Isles of Jura, Scarba, and Mull. Famous for its serene atmosphere, this holiday park is open from spring to autumn and accepts tents, caravans, and motorhomes. The on-site facilities include a clubhouse, playground, and a beachfront café.
The real allure of Port Ban lies in the Tarbert Traditional Boat Festival that takes place every July nearby. The festival is a celebration of Scotland’s maritime heritage, filled with boat races, seafood, traditional music, and local arts and crafts. It’s a fantastic experience for all ages.
Whether it’s the serene environment of the Hillside Caravan Park in North Yorkshire, the stunning valley views of Wasdale National Trust Campsite in the Lake District, or the seaside haven of Port Ban Holiday Park in Scotland, the UK offers an abundance of campsites that blend nature, camping, and local art and craft festivals.
No matter where you choose to pitch your tent or park your caravan, you’ll find a festival close by to indulge your passion for local arts, crafts, food, and drink. Remember to book tickets in advance for these popular events and stay informed by checking the festival dates on their respective websites or via telephone info provided by your chosen campsite.
So why not pack your bags and embark on a cultural journey? Experience the tranquil beauty of the UK’s countryside, enjoy the warm camaraderie of fellow campers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and arts scene. It’s more than just a camping trip – it’s a unique cultural experience that will leave you with lasting memories.