On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, discover the UK’s top camping destinations, from York’s historic charm to Newquay’s vibrant surf scene, offering affordable, scenic, and unforgettable outdoor adventures for 2025!
A recent study by Casino experts Gamblorium has crowned York as the UK’s premier camping destination, scoring an impressive 63.40 out of 100. The study evaluated 144 UK locations based on ten key factors, including campsite availability, weather conditions, visitor ratings, pricing, and Google search popularity. From historic cities to coastal gems, here’s a deep dive into the top 10 camping spots in the UK and why they’re perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
The UK’s Top 10 Best Camping Destinations
1. York, North Yorkshire (Score: 63.40/100)
York tops the list as the UK’s camping capital, and it’s easy to see why. With 53 campsites to choose from, campers are spoiled for choice, whether seeking a riverside retreat or a site near the city’s historic walls. The median price of £30 per night makes it reasonably affordable, while an average of 856.35 minutes of daylight ensures long days to explore attractions like York Minster or the Shambles. The city’s blend of urban charm and proximity to the Yorkshire Dales appeals to campers who want cultural experiences alongside nature. Its high campsite density and favorable daylight hours make York a versatile and accessible choice for all types of campers.
2. Weymouth, Dorset (Score: 61.83/100)
Weymouth, a vibrant seaside town in Dorset, secures second place with a score of 61.83. Its popularity stems from excellent weather conditions, boasting 5.65 miles of visibility and low precipitation at 0.85 mm, ideal for beachside camping. With 20 campsites and a median price of £22.50 per night, it’s a cost-effective coastal escape. Weymouth’s high search interest (8,833 monthly Google searches) reflects its allure as a family-friendly destination, with sandy beaches, water sports, and attractions like the Sea Life Centre. Campers flock here for sunny days and the chance to enjoy Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.
3. Skegness, Lincolnshire (Score: 61.55/100)
Skegness, a classic seaside resort, claims third place with a score of 61.55. Known for its lively promenade and amusement arcades, it’s a hit with families. The town offers the lowest precipitation among the top 10 at just 0.66 mm, ensuring dry camping conditions. With 28 campsites and a budget-friendly median price of £20 per night, Skegness is a wallet-friendly option. Its flat coastal landscape and attractions like Fantasy Island and Skegness Pier make it a fun, accessible spot for campers seeking a traditional British seaside holiday.
4. Shrewsbury, Shropshire (Score: 60.47/100)
Shrewsbury, a charming market town in Shropshire, ranks fourth with a score of 60.47. Its appeal lies in its serene camping conditions, with low wind speeds of 17.15 km/h and a median campsite price of £24 per night. The town offers 24 campsites, many nestled along the River Severn, providing picturesque settings. Shrewsbury’s historic streets, medieval architecture, and proximity to the Shropshire Hills attract campers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and cultural exploration. Its calm weather and reasonable costs make it a hidden gem for a peaceful retreat.
5. Norwich, Norfolk (Score: 59.86/100)
Norwich, a historic city in Norfolk, takes fifth place with a score of 59.86. With 27 campsites and excellent visibility of 5.59 miles, it’s a reliable choice for campers. The median price of £25 per night is reasonable, and the city’s flat terrain is ideal for cycling or exploring nearby Norfolk Broads. Despite lower search popularity (974 monthly Google searches), Norwich’s blend of urban attractions—like Norwich Cathedral and its vibrant market—and access to rural landscapes makes it a versatile camping destination for those seeking history and nature.
6. King’s Lynn, Norfolk (Score: 59.76/100)
Another Norfolk gem, King’s Lynn, ranks sixth with a score of 59.76. This historic port town shines with a high average visitor rating of 4.72 out of five, reflecting the quality of its 23 campsites. At a median price of £21 per night, it’s an affordable option. King’s Lynn is popular for its proximity to the Norfolk coast and attractions like Sandringham Estate, offering campers a mix of coastal walks and historical sites. Its favorable ratings and budget-friendly pricing make it a top pick for a relaxed camping experience.
7. Lincoln, Lincolnshire (Score: 59.21/100)
Lincoln, a cathedral city in Lincolnshire, secures seventh place with a score of 59.21. Its 20 campsites come with a median price of £20 per night, making it one of the most affordable options in the top 10. With an average of 852.34 minutes of daylight, campers have ample time to explore Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle, and the city’s cobbled streets. The surrounding Lincolnshire Wolds offer scenic hiking opportunities, making Lincoln a draw for campers who want a blend of urban heritage and rural beauty.
8. Newquay, Cornwall (Score: 58.95/100)
Newquay, Cornwall’s surfing mecca, ranks eighth with a score of 58.95. It boasts the highest search volume in the top 10 (10,992 monthly Google searches), reflecting its popularity among adventure-seekers. With 40 campsites and 4,208 photos shared online, Newquay’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning beaches like Fistral draw crowds. Despite a higher median price of £43 per night, its coastal cliffs, surf schools, and lively nightlife make it a top choice for campers seeking an action-packed holiday in a picturesque setting.
9. Helston, Cornwall (Score: 58.61/100)
Helston, another Cornish gem, takes ninth place with a score of 58.61. With 47 campsites, it offers the second-highest campsite availability in the top 10, alongside excellent visibility of 5.77 miles. The median price of £20 per night is budget-friendly, and its location near the Lizard Peninsula and Porthleven’s beaches appeals to nature lovers. Helston’s annual Flora Day and proximity to coastal paths make it a cultural and scenic camping destination, perfect for those seeking Cornwall’s rugged charm.
10. Exeter, Devon (Score: 57.84/100)
Rounding out the top 10 is Exeter in Devon, scoring 57.84. It offers the most affordable camping in the top 10, with a median price of £16 per night, and the highest average visitor rating of 4.75 out of five. With 21 campsites, Exeter is a gateway to Dartmoor National Park and Devon’s coastline. The city’s Roman history, vibrant quayside, and access to outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking make it a favorite for campers seeking affordability and variety.
The Least Suitable Camping Spots
At the opposite end, Ambleside in Cumbria ranks as the least suitable camping destination, scoring just 26.30 out of 100. Despite its Lake District appeal, high costs (£330 per night) deter budget-conscious campers. Llandeilo in Wales (27.78) suffers from high prices (£147 per night) and heavy rainfall (2.26 mm). Bridlington in East Yorkshire (31.69) faces challenges with high wind speeds (25.94 km/h) and costly sites (£115 per night). Barnard Castle and Beaworthy complete the bottom five, hampered by poor weather and limited camping infrastructure.
Why These Destinations Stand Out
The top 10 camping spots offer a mix of affordability, favorable weather, and diverse attractions. From York’s historic charm to Newquay’s surf culture, these locations cater to varied preferences, whether you’re after coastal adventures, rural tranquility, or cultural exploration. With median prices ranging from £16 to £43 per night and ample campsites, these destinations make pitching a tent both accessible and enjoyable. Plan your 2025 camping trip to one of these top spots for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
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