First time camping with DCs....

[lamandler]

We are just going to have one or two nights away in early Sept (when schools are back) with DS 4yo and DD 2 yo. DH and I had a few camping trips before having DC but this will be our first en famille

We are in London so would ideally not travel too far in case it all kicks off. I'd be really grateful for some recommendations for newbie family friendly, not more than about two hours from London and preferably near the seaside as it will be the only beach time we will get this year.

Ooh, I am setting off in less than two hours on my first camping trip with the kids, a two nighter and they are four and two too!

We're going to Suffolk but it is not near the sea - well, nearish by car but not that near. I will let you know how family friendly it is when we get back! It's called The Orchard www.orchardcampsite.co.uk/

Thanks Stella, I'll await a full debrief! Have a great time

Well, we had a good time but I wouldn't recommend it for a two and four year old because of the pond/ lake and river; also the play area was broken when we were there. Nice shop though.

So that's one down for you, thousands to go! Sorry not to be more helpful. Nice area though.

There is a good site at Colchester, there is so much to there with young kids and you can get to the sea on a day trip easily, but go to the town/zoo etc if it is raining.

www.colchestercamping.co.uk/info.htm

Have a look at the Campsite Uk site - you can search by area or category such as by the beach. You have to scroll right down as they put French sites before South East as it is alphabetical.

IME many coastal sites are the big holiday park kind of sites which may or may not be what you want. Look at the 'beach' category sites, or search again by map.

Just got back from an amazing stay here

That site looks lovely catinboots, but they really need someone to sort out their web site, don't they?

"its also a great thing to do with all the family it provides somthing for everyone wether you are a knew camper or a grizzled veterran ,if you want the full immersion into nature camping is often the closest that you will get."