As summer begins to wind down, there's no better time to explore some of East England’s most tranquil and scenic camping spots. Away from the bustling tourist hubs, these hidden gems offer the perfect setting for a late summer adventure, providing a mix of natural beauty, history, and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a coastal escape, a peaceful countryside retreat, or a wildlife haven, these five destinations are sure to inspire your next LandyCampers journey.
Blakeney's Seal Colony is an unexpected gem of the East! ©Max Isham Photography
1. Southwold: The Quaint Coastal Getaway
Southwold is a quintessential British seaside town that offers a charming and less crowded alternative to the busier beaches. Known for its iconic lighthouse, colourful beach huts, and traditional pier, Southwold combines old-world charm with modern amenities.
Camping Tip: Pitch your tent at one of the local campsites just outside of town, where you can enjoy the peacefulness of the Suffolk countryside while still being within walking distance of the beach.
Things to Do:
Take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy fish and chips on the pier.
Visit the Adnams Brewery for a taste of locally brewed ales.
Breakfast at Nine Deli and dinner at the Sole Bay Fish Company are a must!
Explore the Southwold Museum and learn about the town’s rich maritime history.
Southwold Beach's famous beach hut parade ©Max Isham Photography
2. Blakeney Point: A Haven for Wildlife Lovers
Blakeney Point is a nature lover’s paradise, famous for its seal colonies and diverse birdlife. This four-mile-long spit on the North Norfolk coast is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and offers an unspoiled landscape of salt marshes, dunes, and mudflats.
Camping Tip: Stay at The Norfolk Brickyard, off the Holkham Hall estate, which provides easy access to the Point for early morning or late evening wildlife spotting.
Things to Do:
Take a boat trip from Blakeney to see the seals basking on the sands.
Explore the coastal paths and enjoy birdwatching in the rich marshland habitats.
Visit Blakeney village for its charming cottages, pubs, and galleries.
A boat trip to Blakeney Point to see the wildlife, and if you're lucky the seal colony, is a must! ©Max Isham Photography
3. Bungay & Waveney Valley: The Heart of the Suffolk Countryside
The market town of Bungay, nestled in the Waveney Valley, offers a peaceful retreat in the Suffolk countryside. With its historic architecture, including the ruins of Bungay Castle, and its scenic riverside location, this area is perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Camping Tip: Wardley Hill Campsite is a favourite of our guests - and ours! Award-winning for good reason, the 4x4-only field is perfect for LandyCampers!
Things to Do:
Paddle along the River Waveney by canoe or kayak for a different perspective of the landscape.
Explore Bungay’s historic town centre and visit the medieval castle ruins.
Enjoy walking and cycling trails that wind through the rolling hills and farmlands of the Waveney Valley.
4. Orford Ness: A Remote Wilderness
Orford Ness is a place like no other—a remote shingle spit on the Suffolk coast that feels like stepping into another world. Once a secret military testing site, this area has been reclaimed by nature and is now a National Trust reserve. The eerie remnants of the site's past, including abandoned bunkers and radar stations, are now home to rare and unusual wildlife.
Camping Tip: While you can’t camp directly on Orford Ness, nearby sites like The Orchard Campsite in nearby Wickham Market provide easy access to the boat trips needed to reach the reserve. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to combine history with the wild beauty of the Suffolk coast.
Things to Do:
Explore the unique landscape and its historical remnants on a guided tour.
Watch for rare birds, such as the avocet and marsh harrier, which thrive in this remote habitat.
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the shingle beaches with stunning views of the North Sea.
5. Dedham Vale: Exploring Constable Country
Dedham Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty straddling the Essex-Suffolk border, is famously known as "Constable Country" for its depiction in the paintings of John Constable. This picturesque landscape, with its gentle rivers, lush meadows, and timeless villages, remains much as it was when Constable painted it in the 19th century.
Camping Tip: Rushbanks Farm Campsite is in the heart of the Vale AONB, perfect for walks in all directions.
Things to Do:
Walk the same paths that Constable once did, taking in views of Flatford Mill and the River Stour.
Visit the charming village of Dedham with its period buildings, tea rooms, and artisan shops.
Take a boat trip along the River Stour for a peaceful and picturesque experience.
Flatford Mill, the inspiration for Constable's best known work, The Hay Wain ©Max Isham Photography
These hidden gems of East England offer the perfect escape for a late summer camping trip, combining natural beauty, rich history, and tranquil surroundings. With your LandyCamper as the perfect base, you can explore these lesser-known destinations at your own pace and create unforgettable memories.
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