Campsites near Leicester
Camp amid woodlands and hilly countryside right in the middle of England.
- Leicester
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12 top campsites near Leicester
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Campsites near Leicester guide
Overview
The inland city of Leicester, in the East Midlands, has an important place in British royal history and is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the country. Travellers can enjoy a range of artistic, historic, and culinary adventures in Leicester, which is one of the largest cities in the UK. Once you’re ready to escape the city, campers have plenty of options into broader Leicestershire county, as the more dense, urban parts of the city give way to parklands that were once home to kings and queens. Glamping, cabin and safari-tent style camping are a particular feature around Leicester and especially well-suited to camping in the Midlands’ climate.
Where to go
Charnwood Forest
This hilly area to the northwest of Leicester city contains several smaller parks, woodlands, and outdoor attractions that are of interest to lovers of the outdoors, including Bradgate Park, Swithland Wood, Bardon Hill, and Beacon Hill. Campers can stay at caravan parks, campsites, and glamping retreats in the small villages around Charnwood Forest and enjoy a rural atmosphere while still being just a short drive away from central Leicester.
Rutland Water
Once part of Leicestershire, Rutland is now a proudly independent county and is home to the peaceful Rutland Water. About 45 minutes’ drive east of central Leicester, Rutland Water is a popular spot for watersports, fishing, cycling, and wildlife watching. There’s a seasonal campsite (March–October) that offers easy access to Rutland Water’s many activities, and is suitable for caravans and campervans, as well as tents.
Loughborough
A small university town located just north of central Leicester, Loughborough is a good destination if you’d like to stay close to Leicester city without being right in it, or if you’re travelling north to Nottingham. A number of caravan parks and farm parks cater to all types of campers, including those without their own tents or vehicles.
When to go
The East Midlands experiences cold winters with occasional snow, and mild summers with long days. The best time to camp in the Leicester region are the warmer months, between May and September, when camping in a tent or unheated vehicle would not be uncomfortable. Many caravan parks close for the winter season, while those with cabin-style accommodation sometimes operate year-round.
