THERE’S something romantic about a night under canvas in the great outdoors.
And more people than ever seem to agree as 4.5million holiday-makers across the UK tried camping or caravanning for the first time in the last three years.
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So-called Covid campers took to their tents in droves, with 16.4million people enjoying a trip in 2021.
With the cost of living squeeze hitting families in the pocket, the warm summer weather holding up a camping break is an ideal way to enjoy the holidays without busting the bank.
Now new research, from commercial property firm Savoy Stewart, has revealed the most beautiful campsites across the country from Glen Nevis in the Highlands to Calgary Bay on Mull.
Darren Best at Savoy Stewart said: “Though camping has been common practice in the UK for a long time, its popularity is continually growing, and a new generation is exploring camping-based trips. Not only is it an affordable way to enjoy your holidays, but it brings you closer to nature and the environment than any hotel room ever will.
“And there is no need to travel abroad, as the UK is home to some of the world’s most stunning countryside and areas of outstanding beauty. With a diverse range of scenery, from coasts and mountains to fields and forests, you need look no further than a car or train ride to find your next ideal camping spot.”
Here are the top eight most picture perfect places to pitch up.
Glen Nevis – Highlands
SET in stunning surroundings, this award-winning campsite boasts Ben Nevis as its backdrop.
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There are five fields of tent pitches at the site, near Fort William.
But if you don’t fancy roughing it, there’s also glamping pods and caravans for hire.
And the site also has a special offer on for later in the year, offering four nights for the price of from September to the start of November.
Rothiemurchus – The Cairngorms
HIDDEN in the towering Caledonian pines of the forest of Rothiemurchus, campers can get close to nature.
The land is owned, managed and cared for by Johnnie Grant – the 16th Laird of Rothiemurchus – and his family, which has looked after the area for centuries.
The park offers sheltered camping in a wilderness setting as well as sheltered level pitches for touring caravans.
And there’s also loads for visitors to do with activities from pony trekking to axe throwing.
Glenbrittle – Skye
THIS site styles itself as an “antidote to the pressures of modern life”.
Founded in the 1960s, it’s set on the rugged west coast of Skye right at the foot of the Cuillin mountains.
And it offers the back-to-nature highs of wild camping with nearby facilities, for those who need a bit of pampering.
If you’re a fan of rock climbing and hillwalking, this is the perfect base.
Calgary Bay – Isle of Mull
IF you want to get off the beaten track, this is the spot for you.
Apart from some public toilets, there are no facilities here – just a stream to wash in and drink from.
But if you’re willing to go wild, the views are worth it.
Campers can unzip their tents in the morning to the sunrise over the magnificent white sands and turquoise waters of Machair beach.
Fidden Farm – Isle of Mull
ANOTHER spot on Mull, this site has more in the way of amenities – and just as much in the way of breathtaking vistas.
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The family-run spot is set on the shoreline so it feels like you’re camping right on the beach.
It’s also the ideal place to spot Scottish wildlife, like nesting birds and seals.
And it’s only a mile from the ferry port to Iona, so it’s ideal for day trip and island hopping.
Ruberslaw Wild Wood – Borders
THIS unique camping haven is set in 500 acres in the heart of the Teviot Valley,
The site celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and they’re marking the occasion by planting an impressive
There’s lots of quirky spots to pitch up at Ruberslaw, from the walled garden to the wild woods, which guarantee no neighbouring campers.
And if you’re after something more luxurio9us, there are also woodland safari tents on offer with cooking facilities and a compost loo.
Marthrown of Mabie – Galloway
NESTLED down a forest track, this is the perfect woodland hideaway.
You can pitch your own tent at the site, located in the Mabie Forest, in Dumfries and Galloway.
Or for something different, campers can hire a yurt or tipi and enjoy a wood fired sauna or dip in the hot tub under a starry sky.
The site has even styled itself as an alternative wedding venue, with loved-up couples getting hitched under the forest canopy or inside its Celtic Roundhouse.
Kilvercht Campsite – Perthshire
IF you’re looking to get away from it all, this spot offers some serious peace and quiet.
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The camp’s website boasts: “If you are looking for a campsite that offers nightly entertainment, bars and restaurants then this is not the place for you.”
The only sounds you’re likely to hear in the site – located above the picturesque Loch Rannoch in Highland Perthshire – is birds singing.
There is loads of space for pitching up and great facilities on offer.
