Tomkins Farm

The smell of cut grass and chalky downland carries across this working farm site tucked into the Sussex countryside, where the pace slows right down and the nights feel properly dark.

This is a good shout for campers who want a proper escape without fuss — space for tents, campervans and caravans, but no bells and whistles beyond the basics. East Sussex walkers use it as a base for the South Downs Way, and families after a quieter alternative to the coast find it suits well. The farm setting means kids get a bit of freedom to roam, though it's very much about pitching up and enjoying the simplicity.

Facilities are straightforward — toilets and showers onsite — and you'll need to check about campfires when you arrive, as policies can vary depending on conditions. It's a working farm, so expect some agricultural character and a genuinely unplugged vibe rather than anything polished or manicured.