The shores of Loch Ness, Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire, and the foot of Ben Nevis, are among the UK’s top 20 idyllic camping destinations, a study has found.

A poll, of 750 regular campers, revealed where they would most like to go to reconnect with nature – with the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales ranking highly. And the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, as well as the Peak District, also made the top 20. It also emerged eight in 10 (79 per cent) enjoy a camping holiday up to four times per year, with 91 per cent “eager” to explore more of the UK.

Darren Whittington, deputy director general of The Camping and Caravanning Club, which commissioned the research, said: “The UK is home to thousands of beautiful camping locations, and watching the sun set and rise in these areas of natural beauty is a joy to behold. Camping provides an opportunity to become immersed in the incredible outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

“It’s also proven to have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing. Being closer to nature, observing wildlife, and enjoying scenic landscapes, can be incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating.”

And three in 10 would choose to camp by the coast - although exactly a third said they would prefer to set up camp in the countryside
And three in 10 would choose to camp by the coast - although exactly a third said they would prefer to set up camp in the countryside

The study also revealed that enjoying the fresh air, spending quality time with loved ones, and disconnecting from usual routines, are among the favourite things about escaping to the outdoors – along with walking in the woods, stargazing, and going to the pub.

According to 35 per cent, the ideal camping party number is made up of two to three campers – although two per cent prefer to go it alone. And the outdoor pursuit proves to be a popular family getaway, as 34 per cent enjoy the camping experience with their partner and children.

It also found 31 per cent found their love of camping from going with their family when they were a child, while 46 per cent do it because they love the great outdoors. And three in 10 (29 per cent) simply consider camping to be more cost-effective than other forms of accommodation, according to the research, carried out via OnePoll.com.

The average camper will set up camp for four nights at a time, but one in 10 opt for a much longer break – lasting between seven and 10 nights. Unsurprisingly, the weather seems to be the main deciding factor when choosing to go camping, as 68 per cent enjoy it the most during the summer months. When quizzed on coastal versus countryside, it was a close contest – but the peaceful green space just took the win, with 33 per cent of the vote (vs 31 per cent).

Darren Whittington, from The Camping and Caravanning Club, which has launched a search for the best camping and outdoor photography spot, with prizes worth more than £5,000, added: “Whether it's watching a breath-taking sunset, hearing the sound of rain on the tent, or sharing stories and laughter with friends, camping creates lasting memories that enrich the soul. Overall, camping offers a unique opportunity to escape the demands of modern life, reconnect with nature, and create cherished memories that can last a lifetime.”

THE UK’S TOP 20 CAMPING LOCATIONS:

  1. Lake District
  2. Cornwall
  3. Scottish Highlands
  4. Peak District
  5. Devon
  6. Loch Ness shores
  7. Yorkshire Dales
  8. Lake Windermere
  9. Jurassic Coast, Dorset
  10. The Cotswolds
  11. Snowdon
  12. Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire
  13. Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
  14. Pembrokeshire
  15. Ben Nevis
  16. Norfolk Coast
  17. Three Cliffs Bay, The Gower
  18. North York Moors
  19. Scottish Lowlands
  20. Dartmoor National Park