19-07-2025
Kent's best campsite has its own private beach and 3,000 acres that feels like the savannah
PEACEFUL countryside, a private beach and glam shepherd huts - you'll find it all at the now award-winning Elmley Nature Reserve.
The campsite on the Isle of Sheppey has scooped up a Muddy Stilettos Award for Boutique Stay in Kent for 2025.
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Elmley Nature Reserve is just an hour from London, found in North Kent on the Isle of Sheppey.
The site is so vast, set across 3,300 acres, that it felt less like Kent, and more like being in the middle of the African savannah.
There are waterways and grasslands, but the real gem is the private beach.
Called Cockleshell Beach, it's a small shell-covered beach at the eastern tip of the island.
During the summer months, you can go there and take a dip in the water.
At other times of the year, it's used for migratory birds, and there's even a viewing screen for guests to watch and get a closer look.
For anyone wanting to stop and stay, there are lots of choices including a large campsite.
On-site are four shepherd huts called Little Owl and Samphire sleeping two while The Saltbox, The Damson and The Ferryman's sleep four.
The cabins are a great option for families as they sleep two adults and two children under the age of 10.
These are called The Roost, Martha's Hut, James' Hide and The Isle. Other amenities include a wood burning stove and an outdoor bath.
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For anyone wanting to get even closer to nature, you can camp out in one of the four bell tents.
Or for larger groups there's Elmley Cottage which sleeps 10, or the Kingshill Farmhouse for up to 12 guests.
As for food and drink, there's no on-site restaurant, but there are provided hampers and delicious meals.
During the summer, the reserve supplies wood-fired pizzas with a drink or your choice.
You can take it back to your accommodation, or enjoy it outside in the courtyard.
There are breakfast hampers that will be delivered to your door, from bacon sandwiches to pastries and porridge.
For anyone going exploring, you can pre-book picnics to take along with you.
Or use the honest bar filled with snacks, drinks and complimentary tea and coffee.
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If you're not completely relaxed already, there is even a spa where you can get treatments from messages to hydrating facials.
Other activities include a Land Rover safari, it's an off-road adventure to see the wider reserve and spot rare wildlife.
There's also a two hour walking tour at dusk where a guide will give you the best chance of spotting the local owls.
You don't have to stay overnight, although, why wouldn't you? But you can book day tickets to the nature reserve too.
For any camping fans, here are the UK's best that have perfect reviews and honesty shops.
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