With camping season now firmly upon us, we round up five of the best campsites within an hour’s drive of London, as recommended by Pitchup.com.

This summer, forget jetting off to a far-flung destination. It’s now all about pitching up on home turf.

Dan Yates, founder of online camping platform Pitchup.com, suggests that the current economic situation is the driving force behind those seeking a vacation searching for low-cost alternatives.

This time of year is always good for our sector but 2017 has been the best year yet," he says.  "Holidays are always the first luxury consumers drop when times are hard but with an ever-increasing choice available, instead of giving up on a holiday, travellers are getting adventurous."

Dan Yates, Pitchup.com

Factors such as concerns over Brexit, the weak pound and rising inflation are all affecting consumer confidence. The weak pound hits those travelling abroad particularly hard in the pocket, tempting people to holiday closer to home.

"The outdoor accommodation sector is undoubtedly the most cost-effective option,” says Yates. “And with sites and styles to suit almost anyone, it’s now an activity that is not solely the reserve of hardy outdoor types.”

Who needs a room with a view when you can be at one with nature? These are the top five ranked campsites on Pitchup.com within 60 miles of London:

1) Broadhembury Caravan and Camping Park, Kent

The award-winning park near Ashford is the ideal setting for either an action-packed family holiday or couple’s break – play area, games room, herb garden and campers’ kitchen are all on-site. What’s more, the peaceful parts of the park provide the ideal spot to relax and admire the famous sunsets or look out for local rabbits, hares and badgers.

2) Frontmills Farm Campsite, East Sussex

Within a couple of miles of the breathtaking South Downs, Frontmills Farm Campsite is just a stone’s throw away from a choice of countryside walking trails, cycling tracks, and local sights including Seven Sisters Country Park and Beachy Head. All that, and it’s still within striking distance of some of the best-known pubs in Sussex.

3) Still Acres Touring and Camping Park, Kent

This warm and friendly family-run campsite ranks highly on its immaculately maintained amenities. So if you're a glamper who likes your warm shower in the morning, Still Acres Touring and Camping Park could be the perfect place to pitch a tent.

4) Little Ropers Woodland Camping, Suffolk

If you're looking for more of a 'wild camping' experience, Little Ropers Woodland Camping site in Suffolk is one to keep on the radar. This small working farm, home to both cattle and llamas, is located in the heart of Suffolk's scenic woodland and is surrounded by stunning views across the Stour Valley.

The Light Box, the home of Pitchup.com, is a fantastic building home to a raft of New and Growing Companies in studios featuring high ceilings, exposed brickwork and wooden flooring – ideal for creative agencies, fashion brands and tech start-ups.

If you’re thinking of setting up a business near Chiswick, email us to arrange a viewing of our available spaces.