Deers Glade

The first thing you might notice at Deer's Glade is the dramatic picnic area with its sail like coverings that could almost be inspired by the Sydney Opera House. It's not often campsites bring to mind architectural icons, but it's credit to the family who run the place, who haven't rested on the laurels of a beautiful setting but designed facilities to match it. Set within a large, flat woodland clearing, Deer's Glade is perfect for first time campers who want something that isn't brash and commercial but still has plenty of home comforts, including wifi, spotless facilities and a well stocked shop. There are a variety of beautiful spots to pitch, including some overlooking a fishing pond, and if you fancy ditching the tent there are several camping pods set into the woodland, along with luxury glamping units that come with their own hot tubs. At weekends food trucks often roll in of an evening to save you cooking, which adds to the sociable feel around the picnic benches and play area.

Ten minutes' walk from the main site is Muntjac Meadow, which opens during August and offers back to basics camping. With its simpler feel and own wooded borders, Muntjac Meadow feels like an entirely separate site yet has the Deers Glade touch in a good toilet block and gives you access to the main site's facilities.

There are several National Trust buildings close by, including Felbrigg Hall, Blickling Hall and Sheringham Park. Just to the north lies Cromer, home of the famous Cromer crab, and to the south the bright lights of Norwich. It is a genuinely rewarding base for exploring the North Norfolk coast, from Blakeney Point to Holkham Bay.