Last Updated: 9 October 2024
Originally Posted: 9 November 2020
Although it seems that summer is winding down, there’s no reason to stop going camping!
Whether you’re heading out in a campervan or pitching a tent, going camping during the autumn and winter can be just as enjoyable as it is in the warmer months. In fact, many of us here at Just Kampers love off-season camping, which also comes with several advantages compared to camping in the height of summer.
Here Are a Few Reasons We Enjoy Off-Season Camping So Much
Peace & Quiet
You can enjoy a much quieter, more relaxing camping experience during the autumn and winter months compared to the busy summer season. With fewer people around, there’s no music blasting, barking dogs or crying children – just peaceful nature and the sound of leaves crunching under your feet. It’s the perfect setting for a tranquil break. Of course, if you want to supply your own music, dogs and children, many campsites tend to be more flexible with noise regulations when they’re less crowded, but it’s always best to check beforehand.
No Early Starts
While some people dread the long nights and short days of autumn and winter, they can actually be great for your body and mind. A week spent in nature can reset your body clock, and without the early morning sun jolting you awake at 5am, you’ll enjoy a much more restful trip away. The birds won’t start singing as early, and you might find yourself naturally heading to bed earlier too, which will likely leave you feeling even more refreshed and ready to take on the outside world when your trip is over.
Even More Affordable
In our experience, many campsites lower their rates for off-season visits, and with fewer guests to manage, you often receive a more personal service. This is great for those who view camping as an affordable, quick and easy way to escape for a while. Plenty of places are still accepting bookings for the autumn bank holiday, so why not explore some sites near you, (or far away!) and sneak in one last camping trip this year?
Fire Good!
There’s something special about a campfire, and as the nights get cooler, a good fire becomes even more enjoyable! Get cosy around the fire with your family or partner, roast some marshmallows until they’re perfectly gooey and drink some hot chocolate. With the sun setting earlier, it’s also the perfect opportunity to gaze at the stars – an experience which is something of a rarity in modern life.
Get Down the Pub!
Is there anything better than a refreshing autumn walk through the countryside, with the leaves turning orange and squirrels darting around like London commuters? Yes – a refreshing walk in the autumn followed by a trip to the pub! Much like gathering around a campfire, a cosy countryside pub becomes even more charming after a brisk walk in the chilly air.
Taking off your hat and scarf and enjoying a well-deserved drink is one of the best parts of going away in the off-season. Grab a seat by the fire and a good book, and you’re set for hours!
Places to Enjoy Off-Season Camping in the UK
Here's a few places around the country that offer off-season camping for campervans and have excellent reviews from past visitors, including some of the JK Team!
Butt Farm
Butt Farm is a working family farm situated 2 miles from the historic market town of Beverley in East Yorkshire. The farm is located on a footpath and cycleway network enabling you to walk and cycle into Beverley and the surrounding areas.
They recently won a RETYA (Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Award) for Best Newcomer.
Butt Farm welcomes caravans, tents and motorhomes. They have 30 pitches including 12 hard standings, and 6 electric hook ups.
Location: Butt Farm, Victoria Road, Beverley, HU17 8PJ
Website: http://www.buttfarm.co.uk/
Woodside Country Park
Woodside is set in a relaxed, rural setting with spaces for campervans as well as luxury Scandinavian Lodges, which offer the peace and quiet of their spacious grounds. There are amazing views across the countryside, with a laidback, friendly atmosphere throughout the site.
With a backcloth of over 100 acres of mixed woodland, care has been taken to preserve and enhance the surrounding environment by providing a wild flower and natural woodland area, encouraging an abundance of wildlife.
Location: Falcon Lane, Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 2JN
Website: www.woodsidelodges.co.uk
Lobb Fields Caravan and Camping Park
Excellent location, close to Braunton and North Devon’s premier surf spots. Really friendly staff and good clean facilities.
Squires Fish Restaurant on Exeter Road in Braunton does awesome fish and chips. Lots of good surf!
Location: Braunton, Devon, EX33 1HG
Website: www.lobbfields.com
The Quiet Site
We really like the pub and shop that are on-site, and the free showers are amazing! There’s also space to do your washing up, which is a nice touch. The whole site is designed around being as sustainable as possible, with the whole site being run on renewable energy whenever possible.
Nearby Grade 1 listed Dalemain House with its museum, gardens and tearoom remains open until the end of October and is definitely worth a look.
Location: Watermillock, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0LS
Website: http://thequietsite.co.uk
If you’ve got any recommendations for camp-sites that are open all year around, please get in touch! We’d love to have some new places to stay and explore.
Take a look at our handy winter guide to help you keep your Volkswagen in great shape and running smoothly throughout the winter months.
