Otter Channel Campsite

Rare, elusive but wonderfully beautiful, there aren’t many otters in the south east of England. But when one was first spotted, for the first time in over 50 years, it was the River Rother that it called home. It’s a prime patch for it to have chosen, the waters glistening, the shaggy grass banks providing hiding nooks and shade. What a joy then, down river, on the quiet banks of that same waterway, to find another rare and beautiful thing: a low-key campsite with nature at it’s heart.

On the edge of the High Weald, three miles from Rye, the Otter Channel is a great escape for those looking to step away from their phone and enjoy the wonder of wildlife. There are less than 20 pitches here in total, but oodles of space, and the site offers splendid views over open farmland and the hills of the old shoreline that was once Romney Marsh before it joined the sea. It’s a great home for local wildlife, with grass left long around the edges, surrounding trees to climb and the flowing Rother alongside. Just sitting by the river is a great way to spend an afternoon, spotting the dragonflies, rising fish and, if you’re lucky, the piercing blue Kingfisher.

The site feels as natural as its setting: Campfires are allowed, there's a shop inside a horsebox and adventurous campers can try the three ‘Hot Bucket’ showers. Bathing under the stars with water you’ve boiled on the campfire is an experience to remember and, if you’re brave enough to rise to the challenge, you get to wear it like a badge of honour for the rest of the trip. There’s a real technique to the process but learning it is just as fun as the shower itself and if you’re feeling, well, a bit boring, then there are normal showers available too.

Kayaks and paddle boards are available to hire to make the most of the river during your stay but, for those looking to explore further afield, Pett Level beach has amazing cliff lines and is a great place to go crabbing. Some of the beach isn’t suitable for small children – it’s very rocky and bruised knees and feet are somewhat unavoidable – but it’s a fun day out for older kids and adults, and historic Hastings, Battle and Bodiam Castle are also within a half-hour drive too.