Unleash Your Adventure: The Definitive Camping Guide to Exploring UK Breweries and Distilleries
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors and have a passion for craft beer and fine spirits, then this guide is tailor-made for you. Combining camping with visits to UK breweries and distilleries offers an unparalleled adventure that blends natural beauty, local culture, and exceptional food and drink.
Planning Your Trip: Choosing the Perfect Campsite
Before you embark on your journey, selecting the right campsite is crucial. Here are a few top recommendations across the UK that offer a blend of scenic beauty and proximity to renowned breweries and distilleries.
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Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland
For those looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Northern Ireland, campsites like Castlewellan Caravan Park and Kilbroney Caravan Park are ideal. Castlewellan Caravan Park, located in Castlewellan Forest Park, offers 53 hard-standing pitches and 40 tent pitches, along with access to a multi-activity centre, nature play areas, and scenic walking trails. Kilbroney Caravan Park, set on the banks of Carlingford Lough, provides 50 pitches and is perfect for families and adventurers alike, with nearby attractions like the Narnia Trail[1].
Lincoln, England
In Lincoln, Hartsholme Country Park Campsite is a great choice. This three-star rated touring park and campsite offers heated camping pods, touring pitches with electric facilities, and free hot showers. It’s nestled within the beautiful Hartsholme Country Park, making it perfect for a weekend break or an extended stay[3].
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Sussex, England
For a more southern adventure, consider Hawthorn Farm Caravan and Camping Park in Sussex. Situated within 28 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens, this park is close to several vineyards and distilleries, such as the award-winning Bolney Wine Estate and the Goldstone Rum distillery[4].
Exploring Breweries: A Taste of Local Craft
The UK is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings.
Lincolnshire Breweries
In Lincoln, you can visit the Branston Moor Campsite and explore local breweries such as the ones in the nearby city. The Engine Yard Glamping Site, while primarily a glamping destination, is close to several rural walking and cycling trails that lead to local pubs serving a variety of craft beers[3].
Sussex Breweries
Sussex is renowned for its breweries, with notable mentions including Harvey’s in Lewes and UnBarred in Brighton. These breweries offer tours and tastings, allowing you to sample some of the best local ales. For example, UnBarred’s taproom in central Brighton always has a wide range of beers available, including some exclusive brews[5].
Discovering Distilleries: The Art of Whisky and Spirits
From single malt scotch whisky to artisanal gin, the UK’s distilleries are a treasure trove for spirits enthusiasts.
Scotch Whisky Distilleries in Scotland
Scotland is the heartland of whisky production, with numerous distilleries offering tours. For a camping trip combined with whisky tasting, consider the Cairngorms National Park or the Isle of Skye. The Talisker Distillery on the Isle of Skye is a must-visit, offering self-guided tours and tastings of their iconic single malt whisky.
English Distilleries
In England, Sussex is home to several distilleries. The Brighton Gin distillery offers behind-the-scenes tours, while Slake Spirits in Worthing provides a glimpse into the meticulous process of crafting premium spirits. These distilleries are easily accessible from campsites like Hawthorn Farm Caravan and Camping Park[5].
Combining Camping and Brewery/Distillery Tours
Here’s how you can seamlessly combine your camping trip with visits to breweries and distilleries:
Self-Guided Tours
Many breweries and distilleries offer self-guided tours, allowing you to explore at your own pace. For example, the Talisker Distillery on the Isle of Skye provides a self-guided tour that includes a tasting session.
Guided Tours
Guided tours can offer a more in-depth experience. In Sussex, you can join a guided tour of the local vineyards and distilleries, such as the Great British Wine Tours that take you through the vineyards in an iconic vintage bus[5].
Booking in Advance
To ensure availability, especially during peak season, it’s advisable to book your tours and campsites well in advance. For instance, booking the Castlewellan Caravan Park or Kilbroney Caravan Park in Northern Ireland should be done online, with bookings reopening periodically[1].
Activities and Attractions Near Your Campsite
Your camping trip shouldn’t be just about the campsite; it’s also about the activities and attractions nearby.
Outdoor Activities
The Mourne Mountains offer a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and nature play areas. In Lincoln, the Hartsholme Country Park provides walking trails and access to the Water Rail cycle path[1][3].
Local Festivals
Many areas host local festivals that celebrate food, drink, and culture. For example, the Robin Hood Beer and Cider Festival in Nottinghamshire is a great event to combine with a camping trip in the nearby Peak District National Park.
Family-Friendly Activities
For family-friendly activities, Delamont Caravan Park in Northern Ireland is a great choice. It features an outdoor adventure playground, a miniature railway, and the Strangford Lough Canoe Trail during the summer months[1].
Practical Insights and Actionable Advice
Here are some practical tips to make your camping and brewery/distillery tour a success:
Packing Essentials
- Tent and Camping Gear: Ensure you have a sturdy tent and all necessary camping gear.
- Comfortable Clothing: Pack comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for outdoor activities.
- Water and Snacks: Keep hydrated and bring snacks to keep your energy levels up during tours.
Local Knowledge
- Talk to Locals: Engage with local campsite staff and brewery/distillery tour guides to get insider tips on the best places to visit.
- Check Opening Hours: Always check the opening hours of breweries and distilleries in advance to plan your day effectively.
Safety First
- Responsible Drinking: Always drink responsibly and plan for a designated driver or use public transport.
- Weather Preparation: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in outdoor settings.
A Detailed Itinerary Example
Here’s an example itinerary for a 5-day camping trip to explore breweries and distilleries in Sussex:
Day | Activity | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Arrive and set up camp at Hawthorn Farm Caravan and Camping Park | Near Lewes, Sussex |
2 | Visit Harvey’s Brewery in Lewes | Lewes |
3 | Tour the Bolney Wine Estate and taste local wines | Haywards Heath |
4 | Explore the Brighton Gin distillery and take a behind-the-scenes tour | Brighton |
5 | Visit the Slake Spirits distillery in Worthing | Worthing |
Quotes from Enthusiasts
- “The combination of camping in the beautiful Sussex countryside and visiting local breweries and distilleries was the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a must-do for any spirits enthusiast!” – Sarah, Camping Enthusiast
- “The Talisker Distillery on the Isle of Skye was a highlight of our camping trip. The self-guided tour and tasting session were incredibly informative and enjoyable.” – John, Whisky Enthusiast
Combining a camping trip with visits to UK breweries and distilleries is an adventure that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the scenic Mourne Mountains, the historic city of Lincoln, or the picturesque countryside of Sussex, there’s a wealth of natural beauty, local culture, and exceptional food and drink to discover. So pack your tent, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to unleash your adventure in the heart of the UK’s brewing and distilling scene.