Well baby no. 3 due next month and already I am thinking about camping this summer!
We went camping for the first time ever when DD2 was only 13 weeks old which worked out OK, and with the introduction of these fines for taking the kids out of school for holidays now, we have to plan something in the main holidays which leaves only camping as an option really without paying hundreds.
We live in Chesterfield and although we looooooooove Cornwall, I was thinking of going for just 4 nights and can't justify going all that way for less than a week, plus although I know I will miss it, I'd like to go somewhere new for a change.
So here are our requirements-
Somewhere 'Down South' or Norfolk, but not the South-East coast. We are doing Filey in a static at Easter and don't fancy going up that way twice in a year, and done Skegness etc lots before. Have thought New Forest area but not researched it yet. Also considered Dorset? Be nice to not have to travel for more than 4 hours.
Child friendly area- lots of kiddy things to do nearby for what will be a 5 and 8 year old (girls). Baby I suspect won't be that bothered :)
Doesn't have to be Coastal although if it's a nice coast it's a bonus. By nice, I mean I like coves and golden sand, not loads of amusements and litter all over the beach. But even though I love the sea, it's NOT a must this time around.
Campsite itself-
Flat pitches for a tent with EHU.
Nice onsite/ nice scenery nearby- woodland/surroundings/beach (if coastal- not necessary as above).
Free showers/toilets
Decent play area
Bar/pub
Shop
Somewhere to eat
Entertainment always a bonus but I know not all sites offer this so not a must-have.
Hope you can help us! Have also considered those 'pod' things or ready erected tents to save that part of it but I know that limits us a lot so we are happy to take the tent x
Don't forget to leave a review of the campsites you have visited this year or last!
I think Clippesby in Norfolk ticks your boxes for the site. Woodland setting with small camping areas.The beaches north of Great Yarmouth are nice - not coves though, but sandy and you can go seal spotting. You could also hire a day boat to go on a stretch of the broads. Site has plenty to keep kids busy and there is kids entertainment. It's not a massive holiday park in your face busy type. Only touring pitches and many tenters go there. East anglia tends to be dryer than south west too! It is a bit pricey though. Clippesby
We live in Dorset; beautiful part of the country. Bournemouth beaches rival any of Europe's, as lovely and sandy. Anywhere in east Dorset, you're not far from the new forest as well as the sea. beaches near the new forest are pebbly, so not as nice as Bournemouth. Moors valley country park near ringwood is a fab day out too. Plus Paultons Park near Romsey, great day out for the kids too.
Swanage and Weymouth are lovely areas. Lots to do: Tank Museum and Monkey World that way and nice beaches.
Lots of sites to check out in the area with good reviews.
If you like quiet, traditional seaside resorts like Filey, maybe you should have a look at Cromer. It's only a small resort but with other places close by (Upper Sherringham, Wells etc) We go every year, it's very child friendly - it's famous for crabs and young children spend hours on the pier trying to catch them.
Don't forget to leave a review of the campsites you have visited this year or last!
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Thank you for your suggestions everyone :) We have done Devon a few times and Wales a couple times (not always camping) so would probably lean more towards Dorset, New Forest or Norfolk. We did actually provisionally book Norfolk for the summer just passed but went to Devon instead.
I'm going to have a look at some of those suggestions now :)
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Suggestions needed for this year please!
