The best camping spots in Surrey
“The Surrey Hills, Hankley Common, near Elstead, and Big Hat Bushcamp, near Chertsey,” James recommends.
Perhaps it brings back memories of wet feet, cold mornings and undercooked pasta but, for James Warner Smith, editor of online camping resource coolcamping.com, sleeping under the stars offers an excellent break from the everyday routine. “Pitching a tent, cooking on a camp stove, and having no distractions from gadgets really help you slow down, take in your surroundings and appreciate nature,” he says.
And it’s not only James who feels that way. Numerous studies identify the wellness benefits of spending time outdoors. Research from the University of East Anglia, for example, connects it to a reduction in stress, lower blood pressure, improved sleep and a longer life expectancy. “Wild camping is a great way of relaxing, losing inhibitions and, for families, having more together-time – that you might not have realised was being lost day-to-day.”
Indeed, with the average person spending more than one day a week immersed in tech, isn’t it time you took a screen break to revisit more traditional and creative activities such as a seasonal scavenger hunt, wild swimming, or a toasted marshmallow-fuelled session of campfire storytelling or wink murder?
GIVE IT A GO!
Inspired to go camping but not sure wild camping is quite for you? Then try the National Trust organised Big Camp at Runnymede (Aug 3), Winkworth (Aug 10) and Claremont (Aug 17). Camp out with others in a historic setting and join in with activities led by the on-site wildlife expert. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk to book.
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