Combine city sightseeing with countryside adventure in the Gateway to the Fens.
Known as the Gateway to the Fens, this cathedral city on the border to Cambridgeshire boasts easy access to many attractions in the east of England, plus plenty of draws of its own. The city’s reserves, parks, river, and lakes are ideal for hikers, bikers, anglers, and boaters, while a short journey into the countryside can open up opportunities for coastal and woodland exploration. Outdoor accommodation ranges from no-frills field camping to luxury glamping, with options available year round.
Right on the River Nene and home to several lakes, Peterborough is a destination for water lovers and anglers. Sailing, windsurfing, and open water swimming are popular activities at Nene Country Park, which also houses a campsite and caravan park. Other family-friendly options include working farms, such as Sacrewell, while glampers can choose from a range of exclusive lodges and tent sites.
Traditional Fenland towns Whittlesey, March, Chatteris, and Wisbech are within easy reach of Peterborough, each offering unique rambling and riding opportunities. The Greenwich Meridian Trail, Fen Rivers Way, and Hereward Way all pass through the area, while adult-only campsites, touring parks, and luxury lodges offer accommodation options for all manner of Hipcampers—including fish farms and lakeside sites for keen anglers.
East of Cambridgeshire on the Suffolk-Norfolk border, this lowland forest is best known for its balmy microclimate and rich variety of flora and fauna. The region’s long distance trails, such as the Peddars Way and Norfolk Coast Path Trail, are lined by rural campsites, while outdoor attractions such as Brandon Country Park and Knettishall Heath offer relaxed rambles and wildlife watching.
Get a glimpse of England’s dramatic and varied coastline just 90 minutes northeast of Peterborough. Made up of salt marshes and mud flats, the Wash estuary is a haven for birdwatching, while sprawling beaches and small villages along the Norfolk coastline reveal a far more traditional seaside view. Coastal camping options include back-to-basics sites, glamping pods, and family-friendly holiday parks.
Camping in the east of England is most popular during the summer, though adventurers that brave the short days and cold climes of autumn and winter are rewarded with golden-hued views and far quieter campsites, though be aware that many close for the off season.