Staycation: A ‘hidden gem’ campsite in Yorkshire named best in the UK




The UK’s best campsites and glamping stays have been revealed, with a back-to-basics site in East Yorkshire taking the top spot.New data, based on nearly 200,000 verified customer reviews in 2025, has crowned The Spinney Wild Camping as the UK’s best campsite. The site – described as a “hidden gem” – achieved a perfect 10/10 rating from Pitchup.com, with guests praising its peaceful setting and no-frills approach to outdoor stays. The results reflect a wider trend among British holidaymakers, who are increasingly opting for quiet, back-to-nature breaks over more traditional, facility-heavy holiday parks. Despite its relatively low profile compared to major tourist destinations, East Yorkshire has one of the top recommendations.The Spinney Wild Camping has the most positive reviews | PITCHUP.COMOwner Neil Marwood said: “I’m ecstatic to have won this award – thrilled to bits. I can’t quite believe it. We’re a site without any bells and whistles, so it is a bit of a surprise. “I think what makes our place special is that we greet everyone personally. We’re close to York, in a little town famous for its gardens and lakes, and there’s also a local pub within walking distance along a canal, making it the perfect location.“We don’t pack people in and allow them to pitch where they want. Quality of sleep is also valued with quiet hours after 10pm, which I think parents especially appreciate. I’d like to thank my wife, Cherie, for all her support – this site is our pride and joy. And a massive thank you to everyone who took the time to give us such wonderful reviews.”Close behind in second place is Owl Valley Glamping in Devon, which also secured a flawless 10/10 rating. Set within a private nature reserve near the coast, it offers a more luxurious outdoor experience, with features such as wood-fired hot tubs and fully equipped accommodation.Camping & Glamping Golds 2025The Spinney Wild Camping – North East EnglandOwl Valley Glamping – South West EnglandThe Wee Caravan Park – ScotlandCosmos Camping – West WalesLittle Nash Woods Camping – South East EnglandWimbleball Holidays – South West EnglandLittle Thornham Holidays – South West EnglandSouth Ford Farm Camping – South West EnglandTydd Gote Caravan Site – East AngliaRounding out the top three is The Wee Caravan Park in Scotland, meaning there is plenty of choice for Britons booking their next overnight stay. The Owl Valley Glamping took the second place spot | PITCHUP.COMThe South West was the strongest-performing region overall, home to the highest number of Gold-rated sites in this year’s awards.To qualify for the awards, campsites and glamping locations needed to achieve an average rating of at least 8/10 from a minimum of 20 verified reviews in 2025 — with only those scoring a perfect 10 making the final list.While high-end glamping continues to perform strongly, many of the top-rated sites focus on space, tranquillity and a more personal, stripped-back experience — proving that when it comes to UK getaways, less can often mean more.