The coastline around Devon and Cornwall offer some of the best coast
campsites in the UK. With generally dry and sunny summer weather and an
ever-changing landscape, there is something to please every camper and
caravanner.
North Coast Campsites
The north coast of Devon is well known for its beaches and coves. The landscape
becomes more rugged towards the toe of Cornwall. The slate cliffs have been worn
by the stormy Atlantic for centuries and can now be explored via the coastal
path. Tintagel is known as King Arthur’s country with its ruined castle and
legends of the Knights of the Round Table. The area between Tintagel and
Boscastle is delightful walking country, but quite hilly. Many campsites abound
in this area, overlooking the sea and almost every village seems to begin with
‘Tre…’
Camping on the South Coast of Cornwall
The South coast of Cornwall has many tiny coves and harbours in its more
sheltered setting. Part of the charm of staying in the area is the steep-sided
narrow, winding Cornish lanes which necessitate much reversing to accommodate
traffic coming in the opposite direction – not easy if both are towing caravans!
There are many coast campsites in this pretty area.
The distance between the north and south coasts of Cornwall tapers from 58 miles
between Plymouth and Bideford, down to nothing at Land’s End. For those who
relish the thought of treading on the furthermost point of the British Isles, a
trip to Land’s End is fun. There are several camping and caravan sites in the
area and there is a fun park and plenty of walks in the area. Just off the south
coast at Marazion is St Michael’s Mount. This dramatic castle and gardens is
reached by a causeway at low tide and by a boat at high tide. For those who
enjoy stately homes and gardens, Cornwall has a whole collection of National
Trust properties.
The offshore Scilly Isles offer a great day out from Penzance by boat or by
helicopter. Take your tent and camp there for a few days.
Coast Campsites in South Devon
It is no accident that there are so many camp sites along the coast of South
Devon. The coastal beaches, pleasant towns and well-kept walking paths make this
a great place for an outdoor holiday. Most campsites on the coast are clustered
around the resorts of Paignton, Torquay and Brixham. These areas offer plenty
for families to do including the ‘Go Ape’ treetop experience, a children’s
assault course at Canonteign Falls which is incidentally England’s highest
waterfall, cinemas, caves, railways, boat trips and the House of Marbles, a fine
collection of historic glass marbles and toys.