COASTAL CAMPING
Why we love to be beside the seaside
There’s something about breathing in coastal air and getting sand between your toes that just makes you feel so much better. It is said that no one lives more than 80 miles from the coast in the UK; that means we’re all less than two hours from the sea. So it’s not surprising that thousands of us make an escape to the coast every weekend.
As a country we are blessed with magnificent beaches, from the far north of Scotland to the most southerly tip of Cornwall. Some are quiet, isolated coves, some are in the heart of bustling seaside resorts. Some boast vast expanses of golden sand, while others are made up of smooth pebbles and shells.
Whether you’re looking for a massive family holiday park with all mod cons or a quiet corner on a tiny site with the bare minimum of facilities you’ll find it by the sea. Britain’s coastline is dotted with wonderful camping locations – some perched at the top of towering cliffs with spectacular sea views, others just a couple of minutes’ walk from glorious sandy beaches. Either way, you simply can’t beat dropping off to sleep with the sound of the sea in the background.
WATCH THE SUN SET
For a more genteel way to pass the time, cast your eyes eastwards. If you’re lucky enough to find a pitch with a sea view, chances are you’ll spend many an evening sitting outside your tent, gazing in awe as the sun sinks slowly into the sea.
TRY OUT A SEASIDE SPORT
Excuse the pun but surfing is making waves this year. Everyone’s at it on all kinds of surf craft, from traditional belly boards to Malibu boards. Cornwall, Devon and Wales are top locations, but wherever you find waves will do for starters. Before you dive in, think about taking some lessons with a Surfing GBapproved surf school.
In places where there are no waves try kite surfing or paddling a stand-up paddleboard (SUP). The experts make it look easy but once you get the buzz you will definitely get the hang of it. Eventually.
Nooks and crannies around the coast can be explored from a kayak. Bring a waterproof bag for your sarnies and phone. Get info on where to hire or get tuition from the British Canoe Union.
EAT ‘JUNK’ FOOD
Healthy eating enthusiasts and dentists will no doubt have a fit, but no trip to the coast is complete without generous helpings of fish and chips, ice cream and a traditional stick of rock. Some of our seaside towns will try to tempt you with exotic stuff like kebabs and burgers, but don’t succumb. Cod and chips is the only acceptable fast food to eat when you’re strolling along the prom. But watch out for the seagulls.
SWIM IN THE OCEAN
It seems everyone is “wild swimming” these days, but we’ve been doing it since it was just, well, swimming. And where better to go for a dip outdoors than the seaside? OK, so the English Channel’s not exactly the Med and the North Sea can be just a bit chilly, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take the plunge off Britain’s coastline. What could be better on a sunny summer’s morning than an early morning swim in the briny before rushing back up to your tent for bacon and eggs and a mug of tea? Be safe, though. Check out
wildswimming.co.uk for advice on how to stay out of trouble.
TAKE A HIKE
There’s nothing quite like coastal walking; slipping out of your tent on a bright morning and donning boots and rucksack before setting off along a clifftop path. Our coastal cliffs
THINKING OF GOING? INSURE WITH SHIELD FOR TOTAL PEACE OF MIND