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Glamping in Kent is one of the easiest ways to get a taste of the outdoors without giving up comfort. The county is close enough to London and Sussex for a short break, and it offers a mix of woodland, farmland, hills and coast. Typical options include bell tents, shepherd huts, treehouses, pods and yurts, and many sites offer private hot tubs, though you should always confirm facilities directly with the site before you book.
This guide explains what to look for, which parts of Kent suit different trips, when to go and how to keep costs sensible. We have not stayed at every site, so we do not rank individual properties. Instead we show you how to choose one that fits your plans, then check reviews and the official booking page for current details.
Which Kent glamping sites are best?
There is no single best site, because the right choice depends on who you are travelling with and what you want from the stay. Rather than rely on a list that may date quickly, compare sites against a few practical points:
- Type of accommodation: bell tents feel traditional, while shepherd huts, cabins and treehouses often suit couples who want more insulation and privacy.
- Facilities: check whether you have a private bathroom, a kitchen or only a shared block, and whether bedding and towels are provided.
- Setting: some sites sit on working farms, others in woodland or close to the sea.
- Recent reviews: read several from the last year, and look for comments on cleanliness, noise and how well the host communicates.
- Cancellation terms: weather can change plans, so flexible terms give peace of mind.
You can search the main booking platforms and compare, or contact a site directly. Our UK holidays guide has more general tips for comparing options.
Is Kent close enough for a short break?
For many people the answer is yes. Kent is often described as the garden of England, and parts of it can be reached from London and Sussex in a journey that is manageable for a weekend. Driving times vary a lot with traffic and the exact location, so check a route planner for your date and departure time. If you are coming from Brighton, some of the western and central areas of Kent are likely to be within a reasonable drive, while the far east coast takes longer.
A few tips for short breaks:
- Travel outside the Friday evening rush if you can.
- Choose a site close to the amenities you want, such as a pub, a beach or a walking route.
- Check the arrival and departure times so you can plan the day around them.
- Bring a printed or offline map, because mobile signal can be patchy in rural areas.
If you are based in Sussex and want other short trips, see our guides to weekend breaks from Brighton and Sussex breaks.
Where in Kent should you stay?
Kent is varied, so it helps to think about the type of scenery you enjoy.
The Kent Downs
The Kent Downs are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with rolling hills, woodland and long distance walking routes. They suit walkers, cyclists and anyone who wants quiet views.
The High Weald
The southern part of the county shares the High Weald landscape with Sussex, with small fields, ancient woods and pretty villages. It is a good choice if you want to combine a glamping stay with village pubs and gardens.
The coast
Kent has a long coastline with sandy beaches, harbour towns and wide skies. Staying near the sea can be a good match for families and for travellers who like seaside walks. You can read more in our UK coastal holidays guide.
Marshland and countryside in the south east
The flatter marshland areas have a very different feel, with big skies and plenty of birdlife. If you enjoy wildlife watching, it can be a rewarding place to base yourself.
Are there glamping sites with hot tubs in Kent?
Yes, many glamping sites in Kent advertise hot tubs, whether private to your pod or shared. Because a hot tub is a big part of the appeal for many guests, double check the details before you pay:
- Is the hot tub private or shared, and is it wood fired or electric?
- Is it included in the price or an extra charge?
- What are the rules on use, such as quiet hours and age limits?
- Is the hot tub available all year, and how is it heated and cleaned between guests?
A hot tub can make a cool evening more enjoyable, but it should not be the only reason you pick a site. Make sure the rest of the stay, from the bed to the bathroom, suits you.
What is the best time of year for glamping in Kent?
Late spring through to early autumn is the most popular period, because the weather is generally warmer and the evenings are longer. That said, many sites are open outside those months, and some guests prefer a quieter stay with a woodburner and cosy bedding. Here is a rough guide:
- Spring: blossom, lambs on farms and fresher air. Pack for changeable weather.
- Summer: long days and the best chance of outdoor evenings, but also the highest prices and busiest weekends.
- Autumn: colour in the woods and fewer crowds. Evenings can be cool, so bring warm layers.
- Winter: quiet and atmospheric if the site is insulated and heated. Always check heating before you book.
School holidays and bank holiday weekends are usually the most expensive and booked up first, so reserve early if you plan to travel then.
What should you pack for a glamping break?
- Warm layers and a waterproof jacket, whatever the forecast.
- Sturdy shoes or boots for muddy paths.
- A torch or head torch, since lighting can be limited on site.
- Insect repellent and sun cream in the warmer months.
- A portable phone charger, as power sockets may be limited.
- Food and drink, if the site has a kitchen but no nearby shop.
- Games, books or a pack of cards for the evenings.
Check what the site supplies. Some provide bedding, firewood and cooking equipment, while others expect you to bring your own.
How much does glamping in Kent cost?
Prices vary widely depending on the type of accommodation, the season, the day of the week and the facilities. A simple tent in term time will usually cost less than a lodge with a private hot tub in the summer holidays. We do not quote specific prices because they change often, so use the booking pages to compare current rates for your dates.
To keep the cost down:
- Travel midweek or in the shoulder seasons.
- Share with friends or family to split the bill.
- Look for minimum stay rules, since a two night minimum at a weekend is common.
- Ask whether there are extra charges for extra guests, pets, firewood or hot tubs.
- Compare cancellation policies as well as price.
If you are stretching your budget on several trips, our cheap holidays guide has useful tips.
Things to do near your site
One of the pleasures of a Kent glamping break is the range of things to do within a short drive. Depending on where you stay, you might enjoy:
- Walking and cycling routes through the Downs or along the coast.
- Village pubs, farm shops and local food producers.
- Historic houses, castles and gardens. Opening times vary, so check the official websites.
- Beaches and harbour towns for a day out by the sea.
- Stargazing on clear nights, which can be much easier away from town lights.
If you want a day out from Sussex without an overnight stay, see our day trips from Brighton guide.
Tips for a smooth glamping trip
- Read the arrival instructions in advance and save them offline.
- Ask about parking and how far you will carry your luggage.
- Check the rules on fires, barbecues and noise.
- Respect the countryside code and take litter home or use the bins provided.
- Consider travel insurance or home cover that includes cancellation, if you are paying a large deposit.
Frequently asked questions
Is glamping in Kent suitable for families?
Many sites welcome families, but policies differ. Check age limits, the number of guests allowed and whether cots or extra beds are available.
Can you take a dog glamping in Kent?
Some sites allow dogs, often for an extra fee and sometimes only in certain units. Always confirm before you book.
Do you need a car to get to a Kent glamping site?
A car is usually the easiest way, because many sites are rural. Some are near train stations or bus routes, so check the location carefully if you plan to travel without one. Our car hire guide may help if you do not own a car.
Is glamping warm enough in winter?
It depends on the accommodation. Insulated cabins and huts with heating are far more comfortable than a canvas tent. Read the description and recent reviews carefully.
Are toilets and showers private?
Some units have en suite facilities, while others rely on shared blocks nearby. The listing should say, so read it closely.
How far ahead should you book?
For summer and bank holidays, many people book several months ahead. Quieter dates can often be booked closer to the time.
Can you glamp in Kent at the last minute?
Sometimes, especially midweek or outside peak season. See our last minute holidays guide for ideas.