Jordans Close Scout Activity Centre

The familiar canvas-and-guy-rope bustle of a Scout centre feels different when you're the one pitching up — less institutional, more shared adventure, with that particular energy of a place built for outdoor learning.

This is a working activity centre first, so expect the rhythms of group life alongside your own pitch — tents, campervans and caravans all welcome, which means families planning a base for exploring the surrounding area will find plenty of like-minded company. It's the sort of site where you might chat to other campers over breakfast about the day's plans, where kids feel instantly at home, and where the infrastructure is practical rather than polished.

Facilities aren't detailed in advance, so it's worth ringing ahead to check what's available when you arrive — including whether campfires are on for your dates. The vibe is unpretentious and outdoorsy, geared around getting out and doing rather than lounging about, which suits active families and anyone who remembers Scout camps fondly and fancies recapturing a bit of that spirit under their own steam.