Blackberry Wood (Meadow Campsite)

It wasn't long ago that the idea of spending a night in a Mongolian yurt or a teepee was seen as niche, outlandish even, but at Blackberry Wood you can bed down in a double decker bus, a fire engine or a treehouse, and for the more conservative there's a Gypsy caravan and a set of cabins and shepherd's huts. For the kids this is a dream come true, but if it all sounds a little Wacky Warehouse, don't be deterred. The 'wood' in the name isn't an affectation; the bulk of the site's pitches are found amongst the trees and there's truly something for everyone. The eclectic feel makes the site fascinating to explore, with even the shop painted in vivid blues and greens. Campfires are positively encouraged, with fire pits and grills available to make cooking a cinch, which all adds up to a positively festive feel as the night is lit by the glow from your fellow campers' fires.

During peak season the site opens 'Blackberry Wood on the Wildside', an adults only meadow with stunning views of the South Downs. For total privacy you could choose the pitches that sit hidden in their own clearings, but you may need to take some breadcrumbs to help you find your way back. The seclusion is the whole point: guests talk about waking to the dawn chorus and falling asleep to owls, with the quirky glamping units clean and thoughtfully kitted out. The one practical note is that the office can be tricky to reach by phone, so persist when booking.

The site is ideally placed for exploring the South Downs National Park, with route maps available from the office. For well earned drinks The Jolly Sportsman in East Chillington is walking distance, and the site is a short drive from the delights of Brighton and the more sedate Lewes.