Reluctant Camper, please reassure me.

[NachoAddict]

I have never camped before but dp being made redundant means that the beach/hotel abroad will have to be cancelled.

We still want to get away so are going to embrace camping and hopefully do two or three long weekends during the summer.

So what do you do whilst camping? How do you keep the kids entertained?
Where do you go?

Dc are 9, 6, 6 and 2.

YY to crocs and wellies.
Waterproofs are a must!
Make sure to rehearse getting the tent up before you go so you don't break it like we did!
Ensure you can sleep (good mats or beds and decent sleeping bags!)
Take layers of clothes. (You can always sleep in a jumper!)
Blankets.
Get ready for bed early then put trackies on top so you are not cold.
Take frozen spag Bol or similar in cool box. It'll defrost on the way and keep your milk cool!
Get a bigger tent than you think you need. A 4 berth will be snug for 4!
Check websites for reviews of sites.
Remember lighting. (A decent torch for night time trips to the loo!)
Swingball etc fun. Top trumps for wet days!!
Enjoy!

I'd recommend looking on ebay for a tent. Mine was from ebay and will be doing it's fourth year this year. If it hadn't of suited me I could have sold it on.

Until you've camped (and had a good gawp at other people's tents on the site) you won't really know what sort of tent is going to suit you best, so it's best not to spend too much up front.

Another site we really liked and also on Norfolk coast, was Breck farm. I think it has mixed reviews but you are allowed fires and there is a great big field next to it which was great for kiting. Good woodland for the kids to play in and close to the coast.

Thanks for all the great recommendations. We have got tons to be going on with now.

Nooooo Thumbcat you don't want to go to Rowlestone ;)

No seriously, it's very very lovely if you have children who want to roam a bit. Ours love it :) I've reviewed it a couple of times on UKcamping :)

Sorry Fourarms, did I recommend your secret favourite?

In penance I'll offer up this place. We haven't been yet but are booked for the summer. I can't find mention of it on any MN threads.

That's too far for us :(

Any suggestions of good places between Cheltenham & Leicester very welcome!

Sorry for hijack OP!