Welcome to Ditchling Camping

Escape to the South Downs: Camping & Glamping near Brighton

Authentic Outdoor Adventures in the Heart of Sussex

Selection of luxury glamping features at Ditchling Camping including bell tent interiors, rustic decor, and fire pits

Your Gateway for Camping in the South Downs National Park

Located just a 15-minute drive from Brighton and a short 10-minute walk from Hassocks Station (direct from London Victoria), Ditchling Camping is perfectly positioned for your next Sussex staycation for camping south downs

Whether you’re seeking a back-to-basics wild camping pitch or a boutique luxury glamping experience, our site offers a peaceful retreat nestled at the foot of the iconic Ditchling Beacon. We are proud to be a dog-friendly, family-oriented campsite where you can unplug, reconnect, and explore.

Traditional Camping	Luxury Glamping	Exclusive Events
Authentic off-grid pitches for tents and campervans. Bring your fire pit and sleep under the stars.	Stunning 5m Bell Tents—from “The Crash Pad” to “The Deluxe”—fully furnished for a stress-free stay.	The “One-Stop Provider” for weddings, corporate retreats, and large group parties in our private meadow.

“Wild” Traditional Camping

Embrace the magic of the Sussex countryside.

Adults: From £15.00 per night
Children: From £10.00 per night
Under 1s: Stay for FREE
Bell Tents: Packages starting from £150.00

A collage showing various tents, campervans, and cars parked in a wide grassy meadow at Ditchling Camping under a clear blue sky

Campfires & Stargazing

Unlike many modern sites, we encourage the tradition of the campfire.

Fire Pit Hire: Available on-site to keep our grass protected – on a first-come-first-serve basis
Dark Skies: Being away from major light pollution, our meadow is a prime spot for stargazing over the South Downs.

Group of friends sitting on hay bales around a campfire at Ditchling Camping glamping site with bell tents at dusk

Stargazing at Ditchling Camping with people gathered around a campfire near glamping bell tents at night.

Family & Dog-Friendly Features

We are a family-run campsite, and we’ve designed our space to be a playground for all ages (and four-legged friends!).

The Ultimate Sussex Camping Experience

Unrivalled Views: Breathtaking 360° views of the South Downs Way and the famous Jack and Jill Windmills.
Adventure for Kids: A dedicated woodland adventure trail, swing trees, and ample space for den building.
Warm Sussex Hospitality: Simple, clean facilities including warm shepherd-hut style gas showers and composting toilets.
Walk to the Pub: Just a 2-minute stroll to the historic centre of Ditchling village, home to award-winning gastropubs (The Bull & The White Horse) and local artisan tea rooms (The Nutmeg Tree and The Green Welly).

Essential Amenities to enjoy the camping South Downs

We provide everything you need for a comfortable stay while maintaining the charm of wild camping.

Hot Shepherd-Hut Showers: Experience our unique, gas-powered hot showers housed in charming, rustic shepherd hut style enclosures.
Eco-Friendly Toilets: We use clean, well-maintained composting toilets to minimise our environmental footprint.
Fresh Water Points: Multiple drinking water stations are located across the Meadow Field for your convenience.

Explore the Local Area

Don’t just stay at the campsite—experience Sussex! Our site is a “stone’s throw” from:

The South Downs Way: Direct access for hikers and cyclists.
Ditchl ing Museum of Art + Craft: World-class culture in a village setting.
Ridgeview & Court Garden Wineries: Sample the best English Sparkling Wine just down the road.

Easy Access: Just 15 minutes from Brighton and 4 miles from Lewes.
Train Links: A 10-minute walk from Hassocks Station (direct trains to London Victoria in under an hour).
Direct Access: The South Downs Way is right on our doorstep, perfect for hikers and mountain bikers.

We have expanded our facilities to welcome more outdoor enthusiasts:

Groups: We are a proud provider for DofE groups and school trips.
Equine Camping: We now offer facilities for camping with horses.
Camper Vans & Motorhomes: Dedicated pitches for your off-grid van life.

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Camping and Glamping

CAMPING AND LUXURY GLAMPING PRICES IN DITCHLING / SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK

Experience the perfect Sussex staycation. Located just a two-minute stroll from the historic centre of Ditchling, our site offers Camping and Luxury Glamping Prices for the ultimate escape in the heart of the South Downs National Park. Whether you are looking for a back-to-basics wild camping pitch or a boutique luxury glamping experience, we provide a peaceful base with easy access to local pubs, shops, and walking trails.

TRADITIONAL WILD CAMPING PITCHES

The Simple Way to Enjoy the South Downs

Rediscover nature with our traditional camping options. Ideal for hikers, cyclists, and families seeking a quick getaway from London or Brighton..

Stay Type	Adults (per night)	Children (per night) under 15
Weekdays & Weekends	£15.00	£10.00
Bank Holidays	£18.00	£13.00

Under 1s: Stay Free!
Minimum Stay: 2 nights (Weekends) / 3 nights (Bank Holidays).

Grassy wild camping pitches looking towards the village of Ditchling

Ready to escape to the South Downs?

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LUXURY BELL TENT HIRE PACKAGES

Boutique Accommodation Near Brighton

Skip the tent poles and the stress. Our hand-picked camping and luxury glamping packages in Ditchling range from minimalist “Crash Pads” to “The Deluxe” — a true hotel-style experience under the stars.

Luxury bell tent glamping at the dead of night

The packages range from a basic, empty bell tent to complete Glamping packages, which include everything you need for a luxurious stay – all set up and ready for your arrival.

THE CRASH PAD (THE ESSENTIALS)

The Cost-Effective Glamping Alternative

Ideal for those who want the canvas experience without the heavy lifting.

Best for: Up to 4-5 adults.
Included: Pre-pitched 5m empty bell tent. Just bring your own bedding!
Price: From £150 ( + Cost per person) – based on a 2 or 3-night stay.
Damage Deposit: A refundable £50 is required upon arrival.

Start your nature adventure with us today.

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5m pre-pitched empty bell tent for budget glamping stays in the South Downs

THE CLASSIC (COMFORT AND STYLE)

Relaxing Family Glamping Made Easy

The perfect middle ground for a cozy Sussex weekend.

Best for: Families of four.
Included: Real mattresses, toppers, pillows, and fresh linen.
Price: From £250 (+ cost per person).- based on a 2 or 3-night stay.
Damage Deposit: A refundable £100 is required upon arrival.

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Boutique glamping interior with double bed, premium linens, and fairy lights in a South Downs bell tent

THE DELUXE (FULL BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCE)

The ultimate South Downs retreat.

Our top-tier offering for a romantic getaway or a special family treat.

Best for: Couples or families seeking a premium experience.
Included: Full boutique furnishings, premium bedding, and luxury touches.
Price: From £400 (+ cost per person) – based on a 2 or 3-night stay.
Damage Deposit: A refundable £100 is required upon arrival.

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Boutique glamping interior with double bed, premium linens, and bunting for that reasonable luxury glamping price

‘CIRCLE OF FRIENDS’ GROUP GLAMPING

Private Group Bookings for Celebrations & Retreats

Planning a group getaway? Our “Circle of Friends” setup provides an exclusive village-style layout for 16 to 20 people, perfect for birthdays or family reunions.

The Setup: 4 x 5m Sleeping Tents + 1 x 6m “Chill-out” central tent.
Amenities: Private toilet and shower facilities, central fire pit with hay bale seating and logs as required
Atmosphere: Fully furnished with rugs, lanterns, and faux fur.
Total Price: £2,000 inclusive (2 or 3-night stays).
Beds can be configured to suit your group – doubles, singles, or a combination.

Group glamping circle of friends setup with bell tents arranged around a central fire pit with the South Downs in the distance

Group glamping circle of friends setup with four bell tents arranged around a central fire pit looking towards the far end of the site

Price: £2,000 inclusive

PLAN YOUR STAY IN DITCHLING

We are perfectly positioned for exploring the South Downs Way and the Seven Sisters. We offer specialized services for larger groups. Furthermore, if you have a custom request for three or more bell tents, we can create a bespoke package including private facilities and fire pits

Check Availability & Book Your Pitch: Email: ditchlingcamping@gmail.com

Location: Ditchling, East Sussex (2 minutes from village centre)

Looking for a bespoke group package or luxury bell tent?

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Features

Where Nature Meets the Campfire

Nestled in the heart of the Sussex countryside, Ditchling Camping offers a front-row seat to the breathtaking beauty of the South Downs Way. Our site is defined by the iconic rolling green hills and patchwork fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, providing the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor escape. Step directly from the campsite onto the winding paths of the South Downs, where vibrant meadows and panoramic valley views await every hiker and dreamer.

Rustic Luxury Facilities

Outdoor Gas Showers: Enjoy an invigorating experience in our Shepherd’s Hut style warm/hot showers after a day of exploring, wash away the trail dust in our charming wood and corrugated metal huts for a true “glamping” feel.

Outdoor hot shower block at a campsite. The structure includes a wooden changing hut with a curved corrugated metal roof and steps, connected to an open-air shower area shielded by tall woven willow privacy screens. A red gas canister and potted plants sit in a neat flower bed in front of the facility

Eco-Friendly Toilets: Our unique Shepherd’s Hut composting/long-drop toilets use sustainable urine-separation technology to protect the local environment. We provide toilet paper, air fresheners, candles and lighting in every cubicle for your comfort.

The Ultimate Campfire Experience

Log & Fire Supplies: Cosy up to a warm fire under the stars. We supply seasoned logs, kindling, and firelighters for £15 per bag. To protect our local ecosystem, we ask that only wood purchased on-site is burned.

No camping trip is complete without a fire. Gather around one of our metal fire pits to share stories, toast marshmallows, and enjoy the simple magic of a roaring fire under a star-filled sky.

A collage highlighting the campfire experience at Ditchling Camping. It features a close-up of vibrant orange flames, marshmallows being toasted over a deep metal fire pit, and a child and adult around a large metal fire bowl at the campsite

Fire Pit Loans: Traveling light? If you are walking or cycling the South Downs Way, we have a limited number of fire pits and sustainable Gas BBQs available to loan on a first-come, first-served basis. (Note: No disposable BBQs allowed to protect our grass and the environment).

Must-Visit Landmarks & Activities

Ditchling Village offers a blend of breathtaking natural views and rich local culture, with amazing local pubs, cafes, and shops are just around the corner.
The South Downs Way: Located just a “stone’s throw” from the trail—ideal for hikers and mountain bikers.

Scenic landscape of the South Downs Way featuring vibrant green meadows and hills. A grassy path in the foreground is lined by a simple wooden post-and-wire fence, leading the eye toward the distant valleys and hills of the English countryside as a route to Eco Friendly Camping in the South Downs

Ditchling Beacon: One of the highest points in East Sussex. Perfect for a family hike or kite flying with panoramic views of the Weald and the English Channel.
Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft: A world-class museum that celebrates the village’s artistic heritage. It is incredibly family-friendly, offering activity trails and workshops for children.
St Margaret’s Church: Explore the heart of the village with a visit to this historic 13th-century church, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Best Family-Friendly Pubs & Cafés

After a day of exploring the South Downs, refuel at one of these local favourites:

Name	Why Families Love It
The Bull Pub	Award-winning food and a fantastic garden for kids to enjoy.
The White Horse	A classic village pub with a warm atmosphere and hearty meals.
The Ginger Fox	Located just outside the village, offering high-end food in a beautiful rural setting.
The Nutmeg Tree	A quintessential 1930s-style tea room—perfect for afternoon cake!
The Green Welly	A rustic, cozy café ideal for a quick brunch or a coffee before a hike.

Award-Winning Local Wineries

Sussex is famous for its English Sparkling Wine. These estates are just minutes away and offer stunning views:

Ridgeview Wine Estate: A world-renowned vineyard offering tours and a beautiful tasting room overlooking the vines.
Court Garden Vineyard: A family-run, single-estate vineyard known for its handcrafted sparkling wines and friendly atmosphere.

Convenient Shopping & Essentials

Stocking up the campervan? You’ll find everything you need within a short drive:

Hassocks (2-3 miles away): * Budgens and Sainsbury’s Local for your daily essentials.
Burgess Hill (4-5 miles away): * Waitrose and a large Tesco Superstore for a full weekly shop.
Pyecombe (on the A23): * Marks & Spencer (BP)—perfect for grabbing high-quality BBQ food on your way into the campsite.

Essential Guest Guidelines (The Respectful Camper)

We operate a relaxed, common-sense campsite. To ensure everyone enjoys the 360° views and tranquility, we ask all guests to follow our simple site code:

Leave No Trace: We are a zero-waste site. There are no rubbish bins, so please take all waste home with you to keep Sussex beautiful.
Quiet Hours: Strictly no music after 10pm to respect our fellow campers and local wildlife.
Pet & Child Safety: Please keep dogs on leads and supervise children at all times.
Site Safety: A strict 5mph speed limit applies to all vehicles on the access track.

If for some reason you require the Camp Site rules, Health and Safety and/or Terms and Conditions please either click on the links, ask the manager or email ditchlingcamping@gmail.com and we will be happy to provide them in pdf format.

Likewise in the unlikely event that you have a complaint please contact ditchlingcamping@gmail.com or talk to the manager directly

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D of E and Local Walks

DUKE OF EDINBURGH (D of E) & SCHOOL GROUP CAMPING | Ditchling, South Downs

We welcome school groups and Duke of Edinburgh (Award) participants to our campsite all year round. As a premier D of E campsite South Downs explorers can rely on, we are located at the foot of the National Park, offering a strategic base for expeditions even outside the standard camping season.

Planning a D of E expedition? We offer competitive group discounts and specialised support for student groups.

A Duke of Edinburgh (D of E) student group hiking CampSite at the foot of the South Downs adjacent to Ditchling.

Enquire Now: ditchlingcamping@gmail.com
Group Bookings: Use our [Contact Form] for a personalised quote.

D of E	Adults (per night)	Students (per night)
Weekdays & Weekends	£8.00	£8.00

EXPLORING THE SOUTH DOWNS: LOCAL WALKS AND TRAILS

Our D of E campsite South Downs is perfectly positioned for hikers, with several national and local trails passing within a “stone’s throw” of the site..

Major Strategic Hiking Trails

South Downs Way (SDW): This 100-mile National Trail runs East-West along the ridge just south of the site. Access the SDW via a 25-minute walk uphill from the campsite.
Sussex Border Path: Intersecting the SDW near Keymer Post, this trail offers a scenic contrast of woodland and agricultural landscapes. Access this via The Drove, located immediately east of the campsite.

Key Local Footpath Clusters

To the South: The Scarp Slope & Ditchling Beacon: The most popular paths lead south toward the “Beacon.” Start at The Drove to head directly to the Scarp Slope.
Ditchling Bostal: A traditional steep chalk path leading from the village up the scarp..
Westmeston Bostal: Located just east of the campsite near Westmeston Church, offering a quieter ascent to the ridge.
Ridge Trails: From the ridge, follow paths East toward Lewes and Eastbourne, or West toward the iconic Jack and Jill Windmills.

To the North: Ditchling Common & Lowlands For flatter terrain through meadows and woodland, head north along Lodge Hill Lane to Boddingtons Lane.

The Old Roman Road: Running East-West approx. 100m north of the site, this route passes through East End Lane and the Recreation Ground toward Streat.

Ditchling Common Country Park: Located 1.5 miles north, featuring circular paths and a central pond.
St. George’s Retreat Paths: A series of parish walks connect the common to the neighbouring village of Wivelsfield.

To the West: Keymer, Hassocks and The Chattri

Village Link Paths: A 20-minute walk through fields parallel to Keymer Road connects Ditchling to Hassocks.
The Chattri Loop: A 5-mile radius hike leading to the poignant Chattri War Memorial on the downs.

Essential Navigation Resources

Mobile signal can be unreliable on the Downs. We recommend:

OS Explorer Map OL11: (1:25,000) Covers Brighton, Lewes, and Ditchling.
East Sussex Rights of Way Map: An interactive map for the latest footpath status and the circular walks in East Sussex

How to Find Us

How To Find Us/Directions to Ditchling Camping

Address of Camp Site near Hassocks Station – Land to the West of The Drove, The Drove, Keymer Rd, Ditchling, BN6 8TR

https://what3words.com/alone.smoker.worlds What 3 Words

Find Your Way to the Meadow

We are located at the foot of the South Downs, making us one of the most accessible “wild” campsites in East Sussex. Whether you are arriving by train, car, or bicycle, use the guide below to ensure a smooth journey as a Campsite near Hassocks Station.

By Train (The Eco-Friendly Way)

We are incredibly proud to be a car-free friendly campsite near Hassocks Station

Hassocks Station is our nearest stop
Route: Direct trains run frequently from London Victoria (approx. 55 mins) and Brighton (approx. 10 mins).
The Walk: From the station, it is a scenic 20-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride to the campsite. Exit Hassocks Station and head east on Keymer Road (B2116) towards Ditchling. Our site is located on the right just before the main village centre, making it an easy stroll even with camping gear.

Arriving by Car or Camper Van

From Brighton (15 mins): Head north via Ditchling Road or the A23, following signs for Ditchling/Hassocks.
From London/M23: Follow the A23 south, taking the exit toward Hurstpierpoint/Hassocks. Follow the B2116 through Hassocks and into Ditchling.
Parking: On-site parking is available for cars and dedicated pitches for camper vans and motorhomes.

Arriving via the South Downs Way

If you are hiking or cycling the South Downs Way, we are located just north of the trail.

Descent: Descend from the ridge near the Jack and Jill Windmills or Ditchling Beacon.
Access: We are a short 20-25 minute walk down into the village, providing a perfect overnight stop for hikers and DofE groups.

Frequently Asked Questions (Location)

Is there parking on-site? Yes, we believe that a parking area clutters the scenic beauty and encourage parking next to your tent.

Can I buy supplies nearby? Absolutely! Ditchling village (2-3-minute walk) has a local larder and post office, while Hassocks has larger supermarkets like Sainsbury’s and Budgens.