Just 25 minutes away from the famous Brighton seafront is Blackberry Wood campsite, an incredibly peaceful woodland area in the Sussex countryside, which offers bundles of fun. Guests can enjoy the tranquillity of staying in the heart of the woods with their own cosy private woodland glade and a fire pit. Guests can also choose to stay inside a helicopter, a traditional double decker bus or even a vintage gypsy caravan. All of these alternatives to staying in a tent are a brilliant idea for a special occasion, especially for a children's birthday party. They have all been renovated and have beds, heating and a kitchen for guests to experience a once in a lifetime overnight stay.

The Helicopter

The Campsite
Even though the campsite offers these amazing alternatives to camping, camping in a tent in the heart of Blackberry Wood is an absolute must. Every camping spot is nestled within a clearing of trees with its very own fire pit and seating area. Each spot has its own name and a story which is told as you are welcomed into the woods – making your stay even more magical. As soon as you set up your tent and fire you feel completely one with nature. Rabbits, robins and squirrels live in the woods and can be seen everywhere around you.

The Bus

The Gypsy Caravan
As well as staying in the middle of the woods, the best part about camping at Blackberry Wood is that you get to have your own open fire. The warmth from the fire will keep you warm all night long and cooking over a fire is easy and surprisingly quick. If it is your first time - then creating a fire and cooking over it is an amazing accomplishment. A grill is provided however you must ensure that you bring cooking essentials if you wish to cook over the fire. A great idea is to bring along some marshmallows and sticks to melt over the fire at night. This is the perfect way to end a night camping in the woods.

The Woods
A children's play area made from the trees is situated at the back of the camp which on my visit certainly entertained the adults too. There is a large tire swing and some tight ropes which are perfect for families. You can also take a walk around the outside the woodland following the public footpaths. You will come across some scenic views of the Sussex countryside, and can be back in time to boiling water over the fire and the perfect cup of tea or hot chocolate.

The Playground

The Bridge Leading to the Playground
The campsite also has its very own shop which sells essentials you may have forgotten. They even have their own sweet shop which is perfect for the kids. The shop closes at around 7 - therefore be sure to get all your supplies before night time. Wood logs for the fire are also sold at the shop for £4 a bag.

The Shop
The campsites toilets and showers are very clean and have hot running water. The showers take 20p pieces for hot water, so be sure to bring some with you if you would like a hot shower in the morning. There is also an area to wash up close to the toilets which has hot running water.

The Campsite
The campsite takes bookings online which is quick and easy, however during the summer the campsite is usually fully booked. It is therefore advisable to go online and book well in advance as visitors love to come back time and time again.

The Lake at the Campsite
With its beautiful surroundings, a trip to Blackberry Wood campsite is sure to be an absolute unforgettable and enchanting one, no matter where or when you decide to stay.