Here at Hipcamp, it’s fair to say we’re not exactly inundated with superb campsites close to London. Generally the more remote and distant from the large cities, the better the campsite. Hawthbush however, is the camping equivalent of a breath of fresh air and an unexpected slap around the face.
Cruising past the ancient shapes & shadows of Ashdown Forest on a road where all the trees look deliberately sculpted into leafy tunnels, certainly makes the site look promising. But it’s as you’re crawling down the gravelly, archetypal country track and towards the camping field when you start to truly love Hawthbush.
Surrounded by a panorama of wild flower meadows, golden hay bales and hand drawn chalk ‘camping here’ signs, it’s easy to become somewhat envious of owner Toby and his family. They left London several years ago to run the 140 acre organic working farm – which isn’t just about cruising on quad bikes and collecting fresh eggs each morning, contrary to some belief. Instead, the site works closely with Natural England to help preserve the meadows and wildlife of East Sussex. So look out for the occasional (and often massive) butterflies whilst en route to the nearby field where the resident brigade of Romney sheep live.
The sizeable shepherd hut field provides plenty of space for daytime activities like cartwheels and badminton – if that’s your bag. Where as the adjacent woodland with its huge fire pit makes the ultimate family evening hangout. The huts are beautifully decorated and come complete with wood burning stove, fresh bed linen and an outdoor kitchen area – making al fresco feasts a great deal easier to knock up.
It’s almost too easy to get snagged by the beguiling comforts of the camping field. But if you do decide to venture out, you will be gobsmacked by the amount of activities East Sussex has to offer. Not only is there the home of Winnie himself: Ashdown Forest, but there’s also a massive assortment of family run farms, local cider tasting breweries for the grown ups and more country pubs than you can shake a poohstick at.
So if you’re looking for effortless but still back to basics camping in stunning rural setting for all the family, Hawthbush is your answer.