Campsite overview
Tent only camping set in the middle of 70 acres of ancient woodland. Dernwood is a family run farm and eco campsite where campfires are allowed and our home produced beef and pork is available to buy.
We aim to provide a low impact, sustainable and eco-friendly campsite; it's a field in the woods, with lots of of peace & quiet, for people who are looking for a real back to nature camping experience.
The opportunities for WILDLIFE ‘SAFARIS’ are endless, from your run of the mill rabbits and normal woodland birds to badgers roaming at night from the large sett in the woods to the south of the field, to sitings of our resident herd of fallow deer and huge buzzards flying over head.
Camp building is clearly a very popular pastime and some are really very impressive - not sure how many are the kids' work and how much the dads' couldn't help themselves!
This year we have started running falconry experiences right here on the farm too.
We allow camp fires and there is wood for sale in the field. The best thing is we sell our home produced meat to cook on it. I know this was a highlight for many people last year, being able to see the cows and pigs out in the field and then cook steak and sausages from the farm, the ultimate in food traceability and provenance.
There are two toilets and a covered washing up area (cold water), stand pipe and log store, and solar showers are available to borrow.
The field is a car free site, which is perfect for families, it’s a 7-10 minute walk from the car park through the woods to the field. We have a fleet of wheelbarrows and trolleys for you to ferry your gear.
Great activities / places of interest within walking distance
On site there is so much to do just in the beautiful and exciting natural environment we have.
Great activities / places of interest a little further afield
Driving, we're 40 minutes away from Brighton, and 25 minutes from both Eastbourne and Tunbridge Wells.
SO SUSSEX: takes adults and children on activities in the Sussex countryside for the purposes of pleasure and learning and to explore the county. www.sosussex.co.uk
CUCKOO TRAIL: built on a disused railway line between Heathfield and Eastbourne Park, The Cuckoo Trail offers a safe route for walkers, horse riders and cyclists of all ages. Links to excellent cycling for all abilities. www.eastsussex.gov.uk
Herstmonceux Castle and Observatory Science Centre Magnificent moated castle, parkland and Elizabethan gardens. www.herstmonceux-castle.com
The Observatory Science Centre: Hands on science and discovery.(approx 7 miles)
www.the-observatory.org
Jacobean house, home of Rudyard Kipling, ‘Just as he left it’, reflecting the authors exotic oriental tastes. (approx 8 miles). www.nationaltrust.org.uk/batemans
Travel to our campsite using public transport
By train: London Victoria to Lewes; or London Bridge to Uckfield or Berwick.
Local Taxis:
Heathfield Cars 01435 867222
Jayline 01323 442233
To & Fro 01435 866668
Reliable Taxis 01825 764 546
Types of pitch available at this campsite
Grass, Tipi
Types of accomodation accepted at this campsite
Tents, Tipis