Wimbles Farm

If you fancy the freedom of wild camping but the thought of no shower or toilet for a few days makes your blood run cold, then you may find yourself in a camping quandary. However, here at Hipcamp we think we’ve found the solution in the form of the wonderfully secluded pitches at Wimbles Farm. This campsite in the heart of rural Sussex gives you and whoever you want to camp with an experience that’s close to wild camping. We say “close” because true wild campers would be astounded to find the rustic luxuries provided here. Each pitch has its own compost loo, picnic bench, fire pit and grill. And if that still sounds a step too wild, just book yourself into one of Wimble Farm’s shepherd’s huts for a bed, a log burner and a provided barbecue (among other things).

Wherever you stay, there’s no danger of feeling crammed in on this campsite – despite its convenient location between London and the south coast. That’s because the site’s two shepherd’s huts and five camping pitches are spread out between 20 acres of wildflower meadows. Groups of campers should plump for Meadow Sweet or The Spinney, which each have space for several tents. Families or couples should choose streamside Cherry Tree, pretty Buttercup field or the spacious Pear Tree pitch. Whether you come with one significant other or with four families, you’ll barely know you’ve got neighbours as they’ll be at least 60 metres away; each pitch is exclusively booked. Just like when you’re wild camping, you’ll be expected to leave no trace of your stay and take all your rubbish with you as there are no bins on site. But, in a marked contrast to wild camping, you can have a shower. And better still – it'll be hot. Three rustic tin and timber cubicles are shared by all campers, a short walk away from each pitch.

As for things to see and do, you can start right here on the farm. It’s a rural location with countryside walks nearby but the coast is not far away either. Pevensey Bay offers the closest beach but you’re not far from Eastbourne, Bexhill and Hastings. Historic Battle and quirky Lewes are nearby too with plenty to see and do.