Escape the busy city with your friends

Thinking about camping this summer? There are plenty of places for you and your mates to escape to that don't involve a big commute!

Camping is a great way to bond with friends and reconnect with nature, so if you're looking to get out your old walking boots and tent, these places are for you:

1. Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park, Edmonton

Travel Time: 45 minutes

Lee Valley Edmonton is a lovely place to go camping. It's convenient, well-equipped and great for enjoying the outdoors with friends. It sits along the River Lee, making it highly accessible by bike.

If you're bringing a big group of friends, why don't you try booking pitches next to each other?

Directions: Take the Central Line from Mile End to Stratford, then the Overground to Meridian Water Station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to the site.

2. Lee Valley Campsite, Sewardstone

Travel Time: 1 hour

For a blend of country escape and city break, Sewardstone is up your street. This site features tent pitches, camping pods and electric hook-ups, perfect if you've got a big tent.

Directions: Take the Central Line to Liverpool Street, then transfer to the Overground to Chingford. Take the 215 or 397 bus right to the site entrance.

3. Lee Valley, Almost Wild Campsite

Travel Time: 1 hour & 15 minutes

If you're looking for a truly rustic, back-to-basics 'wild' feel, then look no further. Campfires are permitted here and there's plenty to do nearby like the River Lee Country Park and Wildlife Discovery Centre. 

Directions: Take the train from Liverpool Street directly to Broxbourne Station, followed by a 10-minute walk to the site.

4. Abbey Wood Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite

Travel Time: 45 minutes

For a more chilled-out and peaceful experience, Abbey Wood is a quiet, wooded ground that is very secluded despite being well within London.

Directions: Take the Elizabeth line directly from Whitechapel to Abbey Wood, then walk 10 minutes to the campsite.

The great thing about these particular sites is that they're all within a 10-minute walk from a station, making it easier when carrying your tent and belongings 🏕️ 

For more things to do in the city, check out our top spots in London this summer.