Beach campsites in Wye National Nature Reserve with horseback riding

At the heart of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this small nature reserve encompasses one of the area’s most visited viewpoints. Make a beeline for the Devil’s Kneading Trough, where the steep coombes afford views across the Romney Marshes and along the Channel coast. Once you’ve admired the views, stop for a picnic on the hillside or follow the hour-long Wye NNR nature trail to spot rare orchids, butterflies, and wildflowers. Hikers can also set out along the long-distance North Downs Way, which passes through the reserve.

• Best for country views: The Sunny Field has off-grid tent pitches, campervan sites, and glamping in bell tents, amid miles of open countryside. It’s a 10-minute drive from the reserve.
• Best for budget campers: Flying Horse Inn is a country pub just west of the reserve and offers free overnight campervan parking for evening diners.
• Best for escaping the crowds: Sunnyside Farm has plenty of grass and hardstanding pitches, optional electric hook-ups, and tranquil surroundings. It’s a 20-min drive away.

1. Kent Downs campsites and caravan sites can book up quickly, especially in July and August, and during school holidays. Plan up to six months in advance for popular sites or those with limited pitching. 
2. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation; some sites ask for the full payment in advance. 
3. Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates. Many campsites open from March through October, while others stay open year-round.

The most pleasant weather for camping is from April through September, and this is the main hiking season in the Kent Downs. Wildflowers bloom throughout this period, but come in late spring to admire them at their most colourful. Sites like the Devil’s Kneading Trough fill up with day-trippers throughout July and August, so make an early start to get a jump on the crowds or opt for a weekday visit in the off-season to enjoy the view to yourself.

• Wye National Nature Reserve is located in the Kent Downs AONB, about a 20-minute drive from Ashford. Trains from London take about an hour to reach Wye train station, just 2 miles from the reserve. 
• Free parking is available at the Wye Nature Reserve car park along Coldharbour Lane.
• Camping is not possible in the reserve itself, and wild camping is not permitted throughout the Kent Downs AONB.
• The reserve has a restaurant, but for public restrooms or to purchase picnic supplies, head to Wye village.