Devon crowned best location in the UK for campsites
Between 2023 and 2024, the ONS reported a 29% increase in camping trips to sites in the UK, and this number is set to increase again in 2025.
Among all the counties in the UK, our research from Pitchup data has shown that Devon is the best location for camping, glamping, and caravanning, beating Cornwall to the top spot. The data looks at which county in Britain has the highest number of 9/10 rated campsites on the platform.
As you can see from the map, Devon is the clear winner, with 181 different campsites all rated a 9 or 10 out of 10 by their happy campers. Followed by Cornwall, this map shows the South West is the top region in the UK for camping. Its quality sites, stunning coastline, and close proximity to quaint seaside towns (like Woolacombe), have made it the clear winner. There is also a clear trend of sites on the coast having a higher concentration of well reviewed campsites. With the search term ‘campsites by the beach’ increasing 33% in 2023 to 2024, it seems Brits love a stay near a beach. Our holiday parks are also walking distance to the UK’s best beach, perfect for a coastal stay.
Let’s take a closer look at the top 3 UK counties to see their popular features and areas and why they may be attracting such a high volume of great reviews.
1. Devon: 181 top rated campsites
Devon is a popular location among campers because you get the best of both worlds, with both the countryside and the beach nearby. According to Pitchup, Devon has the most top-rated campsites in the UK, with 181. With both the North and South coastlines, many campsites are walking distance away from the beach to do endless activities like walking, bodyboarding, rock-pooling, or lounging around on the beach.
You are spoilt for choice on campsites, so you are bound to find a holiday to suit your needs. There are family-friendly campsites, dog-friendly campsites, seaside pitches, and woodland retreats. Here are some examples of the top campsite areas in Devon:
- Yelland
- Bideford
- Frithelstock
- Woolacombe
2. Cornwall: 179 top rated campsites
With its unique cliffs, golden beaches, and quaint seaside towns, Cornwall ranks second in the research, with 179 top-rated campsites. Whether you’re aiming to be tucked away near St Ives or near a popular area like Newquay, Cornwall has plenty of variety to choose from. Here are some campsite examples within Cornwall:
- Cambrose
- Barripper
- Crankie
- Falmouth
3. North Yorkshire: 129 top rated campsites
North Yorkshire offers interesting scenery from its dramatic cliffs, the rugged North York Moors, and the Yorkshire Dales. It provides a perfect adventure and natural outdoor escape. The local seaside towns like Robin’s Hood Bay offer more adventurous opportunities like watersports for active campers. Here are some top campsite locations in North Yorkshire:
- Coneysthorpe
- Malton
- Nawton
- Welburn
The research shows Devon is the clear winner, with 181 campsites that have been rated either a 9 or 10 out of 10 by past campers.
Expert camping essentials
Kevin Darvill, sales and marketing director at Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks recommends: "When you're heading off on a camping adventure, a little planning goes a long way to make sure you're comfortable, dry, and ready for anything. We always recommend packing a microfibre towel for its space-saving and fast-drying abilities; it’s the Swiss Army knife of camping gear. Electrolyte tablets are a smart addition too, whether you’ve been hiking all day or enjoying one too many marshmallows around the campfire. And don’t underestimate the value of extra socks as dry feet can make or break your trip! These simple additions can turn a good camping holiday into a great one."
ENDS
About Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks
Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks is one of the leading operators of holiday parks within Devon and the UK. A family-run business, they are passionate about reinvesting back into their Parks so that the customer gets the best possible holiday at a reasonable price. They offer caravans, lodges and camping/touring pitches so you can find the right accommodation for your stay. Their wide range of onsite activities, entertainment, bars and restaurants make for popular family breaks.
Contact:
For more information on the story (journalists and media) please contact Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks’ PR representative David Foy.