Wiston Ponds, a campsite on the Wiston Estate near Steyning, has been recognized as one of the top locations for off-grid camping in Britain.
Ranked sixth in a study conducted by Camplify UK, the site outperformed locations in Devon, East Sussex, Kent, Northumberland, Oxfordshire, and Essex.
The study analyzed various factors, including the proximity of campsites to beaches, national parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and other top attractions.
Additionally, available on-site facilities played a role in determining rankings. Wiston Ponds earned its position due to its secluded setting and accessibility to a range of nearby activities.
Ann Jarvis, head of community and owners at Camplify UK, noted the increasing demand for off-grid camping experiences.
“With the exception of Scotland and parts of Dartmoor National Park, you need to plan ahead if you’d like to get off-grid in the UK – so we created this index to help adventure-seekers find the best spots that offer a peaceful and quiet place to pitch that will fully immerse you in nature, located on bookable private land with welcoming hosts,” she said in a report by Sussex World.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the growing popularity of off-grid camping highlights an evolving trend in traveler preferences.
More guests are actively seeking locations that offer immersion in nature while still providing essential amenities. Business owners looking to attract this audience may consider adapting their offerings to emphasize seclusion, sustainability, and unique outdoor experiences.
Crowan Beacon in Cornwall topped the study’s rankings, followed by Skerraton Farm in Devon, Challacombe Meadows on Dartmoor, Atlantic View in Cornwall, and White Sheet in Wiltshire.
Wiston Ponds’ strong placement reinforces the value of remote yet well-connected sites in meeting the expectations of today’s adventure-seeking campers.
Jarvis emphasized Wiston Ponds’ appeal, stating, “With so many things to do nearby, it’s no surprise that Wiston Ponds scored so highly.”
The recognition presents an opportunity for site operators to align their marketing and service offerings with the demand for nature-driven stays, potentially boosting occupancy rates in an increasingly competitive market.