As the summer holidays approach, many families are eagerly planning their next camping trips. The UK is teeming with family-friendly campsites, each offering its unique blend of features and amenities. Whether your family enjoys frolicking on the beach, exploring nature parks, or staying on a farm, there is a perfect campsite for you. However, if you are keen to incorporate educational children’s activities into your family camping holiday, you need to select a site that meets these specific needs.
Here, we will guide you on how to find the best campsites near educational children’s activities in the UK. We will consider the type of educational activities available, the facilities and pitches on the campsite, as well as the broader surroundings and amenities of the site. Read on to discover how to make your next family camping holiday both fun and educational for your kids.
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Campsites near Nature Parks
Introducing your children to the wonders of nature can be a very enriching experience. Nature parks provide an engaging platform for kids to learn about different species of plants, animals, and birds as well as ecological conservation.
When scouting for campsites near nature parks, consider the available facilities and the pitches. You will want a campsite that offers clean, well-maintained pitches, ideally with access to water and electricity, especially if you’re planning a longer stay. Moreover, check if the campsite provides educational activities such as guided nature walks, bird watching sessions, or workshops on local flora and fauna.
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One of the best campsites near a nature park in the UK is the Birchwood Tourist Park in Dorset. It’s nestled in eight acres of undisturbed natural woodland, making it perfect for families looking to explore the great outdoors. They also provide facilities like a children’s play area, a dog exercise area, and free Wi-Fi.
Beachside Campsites
Learning comes in many forms and a beach holiday can offer several educational opportunities for children. Marine biology, physical geography, and even history can come alive when camping near a beach.
When choosing a beachside campsite, it’s important to look for those that provide access to educational activities. The beach itself is a great resource, with opportunities for children to learn about marine life, tides, and coastal erosion. Additionally, some campsites may organize beach clean-ups or offer workshops on marine conservation.
One such campsite is the Beachside Holiday Park in Hayle, Cornwall. Along with its beachfront location, it also offers easy access to St. Ives and the surrounding areas, known for their art and cultural significance.
Farmland Campsites
Farm stays offer children a hands-on educational experience where they can learn about farming processes, animal care, and the importance of sustainable agriculture.
When considering a farm campsite, look for those that offer opportunities for children to engage in farm activities such as feeding animals, collecting eggs, or even milking cows. It’s important to ensure the farm adheres to safety standards and has appropriate facilities for camping, such as pitches, toilets, and shower blocks.
A perfect example of a farm-based campsite is the Feather Down Farm in Hampshire. They offer an authentic farm stay experience with kids allowed to help out in the farm chores and learn about life on a working farm.
Glamping Sites
Glamping, or glamorous camping, is a great option for families who want the experience of camping with a few added comforts. Glamping sites often offer a range of educational activities for kids, like foraging workshops, craft sessions, and treasure hunts.
When choosing a glamping site, you should look for those that offer comfortable facilities, such as pre-pitched tents or yurts, and amenities like private bathrooms and kitchenettes. The location of the site is also crucial, so consider sites near areas of interest or educational attractions.
A great glamping site is the Secret Meadows in Suffolk. The site offers a variety of wildlife discovery activities for children, including a ‘Wildlife Spotting’ guide and a ‘Nature Detective’ kit, adding an educational twist to the glamorous camping experience.
Campsites with Onsite Educational Activities
Finally, some campsites offer educational activities right onsite. These can range from wildlife spotting sessions and nature walks, to art and craft workshops, and even science experiment sessions.
When choosing such a campsite, consider the range and quality of the educational activities on offer. You should also consider the facilities and amenities of the campsite, ensuring they meet your family’s needs.
An excellent example is the Skelwith Fold Caravan Park in the Lake District, which regularly organizes wildlife spotting sessions, nature-themed arts and crafts workshops, and other educational activities for children. Plus, its well-equipped pitches, modern facilities, and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal family camping destination.
Campsites near Historical Sites
With a rich history dating back thousands of years, the UK is dotted with historical sites, perfect for families looking to infuse their camping holiday with a generous dose of knowledge. Exploring such sites can provide children with a tangible history lesson, bringing to life eras they learn about in school.
While searching for campsites near historical sites, take into account the distance between the campsite and the site of interest. A campsite that offers transport services to the historical site or is within a short walking distance would be ideal. Furthermore, campsites that provide guided tours or workshops that delve into the history of the area can make your family camping holiday more educational.
A prime example of a campsite near a historical site is the York Rowntree Park Caravan Club Site. Located near the ancient city of York, it offers easy access to historical sites such as York Castle and York Minster. The campsite itself is well-structured with modern facilities, including electric hook-ups, a play area for children, and a dedicated motorhomes tents area.
Campsites within National Parks
The UK boasts 15 stunning national parks, from the rugged beauty of the Peak District to the tranquil waters of the Lake District. Camping within national parks not only offers breathtaking views and adventurous activities but also an opportunity for children to learn about geology, geography, and the importance of preserving natural spaces.
When looking for campsites within national parks, consider the range of outdoor activities available. Many national parks offer guided walks, wildlife spotting, and even orienteering sessions which can be very educational for children.
The Sykeside Camping Park, nestled in the heart of the Lake District, is a standout choice. In addition to its stunning location, the park organises educational activities like guided nature walks and star gazing sessions. Moreover, it caters to every type of camper with options for tents, motorhomes, and glamping.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are numerous campsites in the UK that cater to families seeking an educational holiday. Whether you prefer to stay by the beach, on a farm, near a nature or national park, or close to historical sites, there are plenty of options to choose from. Consider the type of educational activities available at the campsite and in the surrounding area when making your decision.
Remember, the best family camping holidays are those that strike a balance between fun and learning. So, whether you’re trekking through the South Downs, exploring the Isle of Wight, or camping in the Peak District, be sure to take advantage of the educational opportunities these incredible locations have to offer.
By picking the right campsite, your next family camping holiday can be more than just a break from the norm – it can be a chance for your children to learn, explore, and grow. So why wait? Start planning your next educational camping adventure today and create unforgettable memories with your family.
