FOR A holiday that will create amazing memories – while still being kind to your bank balance – you can’t go wrong with camping.
While the thought of snoozing in a tent may conjure up memories of soggy, nondescript fields, it’s all about location.
Around the UK – from Wales to Cornwall – there are some truly stunning camping spots with breathtaking views.
Set up at one of these and you’ll be grateful you never bothered stepping on a plane…
Porth Iago Campsite, Wales
This idyllic ocean-front camping spot nestled in north Wales is the dream.
The site overlooks Port Iago’s white sand beach and blue seas, which sits on the Llŷn Peninsula.
Further still, this has been declared Wales’ ‘best wild camping beach’ by Lonely Planet.
Guests can either pre-book their spot at the campsite in advance, or you can pay on arrival with cash or card.
However, be warned that numbers are capped in order to prevent it becoming too overcrowded.
From its clifftop position, you can enjoy an evening picnic with a front row view of dramatic west-facing sunsets.
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For an active holiday, there’s plenty of opportunity to swim and paddleboard down by the sea.
The beach then makes the perfect place to relax, with its cove-like shape providing shelter from the wind.
Better still? It’s sometimes possible to see dolphins swimming in the sea surrounding the bay.
It also isn’t far from the popular seaside village of Abersoch, which is on hand for shops, restaurants and watersports.
Pitches start from £20 a night, with day passes for £5.
Delamont Country Park Campsite, Belfast
This campsite is in Northern Ireland‘s County Down, within an hour’s drive of Belfast.
It is located in a beautiful country park, covering 200 acres, with stunning views from Strangford Lough to the Mourne Mountains.
The campsite has an electricity supply to pitches, on-site showers and wifi access.
It is possible to pay for your spot with card, and it’s best to try book in advance if you can.
Its USP is the incredible country walks that begin just metres away from the doors of your tent.
Ranging from 1km to 7km in distance, you can stroll along the shores of Strangford Lough and take in the nearby woodland’s wildlife.
Tired of walking? It is also possible to go horse riding through the country park or cycle around on two wheels.
You can bring your dogs with you into the country park, but they’ll need to stay on the lead.
Don’t miss the Strangford Stone, which is the tallest megalith in Northern Ireland.
Pitches start from £11 per night.
Higher Pentreath Campsite, Cornwall
The family-run Cornish camping spot has been happily hosting visitors since the 1950s.
It is located slightly inland, on a farm in the south of Cornwall, but is very close to the south coast.
Indeed, the site is a short walk from Praa Sands, a popular surfing beach in the county.
It is a spot with some of the longest hours of sunshine to be found in the UK.
What’s more, is all well positioned for exploring the likes of Helston, the Lizard Peninsula, Porthleven, Marazion and Penzance.
The price of an electric pitch – for up to four people – is £35.99, while it’s £25.99 for a non-electric pitch.
They welcome families, couples and groups for the same cost all year round, with no hikes during peak season.
From the campsite, it is possible to access the coastal footpath and enjoy the picturesque rugged scenery.
Additionally, you’ll find an abundance of wildflowers and birds as you wander.
Pitches start from £25.99 per night.
Top of the Woods Campsite, Pembrokeshire
For a more luxurious camping experience with a view, head to this eco-camping spot by the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Its 27 acres are surrounded by ancient Welsh woodlands, cascading waterfalls and wild beaches.
You can stay in spacious meadow pitches, or if you’d rather upgrade your experience then there are several more homely options.
These include ‘Safari Lodges’, ‘Nature Domes’ or ‘Pioneer Camps’ for star-gazing with a difference.
The ‘glamping‘ options come with self-catering amenities, cosy wood burners, BBQ as well as fire pits and comfy bedding.
The all-inclusive isn’t just for Spain – the campsite’s ‘holiday packages’ include river treks or electric bike explorations with delicious food too.
You can also order wood-fired pizza and on-site activities, including watching a film in the ‘Barn Cinema’.
However, further afield, it’s within the vicinity of Newgale Beach – offering easy access to stunning coastlines and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
You can also drive to St Davids Cathedral, situated in Britain’s smallest city near the most westerly point of Wales.
It is likwise close to the charming village of Solva, which has a wide selection of cafes, restaurants and pubs.
Pitches start from £36 per night.
Fidden Farm Campsite, Scotland
This rural spot, on the Isle of Mull – which lies off the west coast of Scotland – offers breathtaking views of the Inner Hebrides.
It’s just a short walk from Fidden Bay, a beautiful sandy beach ideal for swimming and relaxing.
The area is packed with wildlife – including eagles, otters, seals and dolphins – making it perfect for nature lovers.
Need to unwind? The campsite provides a peaceful, secluded atmosphere that’s perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape.
It’s also a great base for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking and cycling – with many scenic trails nearby.
The waters around Mull are also great for kayaking or paddleboarding if you’re into watersports.
Similarly, it’s an excellent spot for stargazing due to its clear skies and lack of light pollution.
In fact, you can even see the Milky Way from your tent on a clear night.
You can likewise easily explore other parts of Mull – including Duart Castle and Tobermory – or take ferry trips to nearby islands.
The site, of course, offers essential amenities like toilets, showers and a small shop for necessities.
Pitches start from £12pp a night.