Camping in Little Budworth

Little Budworth sits on a rare pocket of Cheshire heathland, and that sandy, free-draining sandstone terrain makes the surrounding countryside a pleasant, if compact, base for a camping trip. As with anywhere in England, wild camping without the landowner's express permission is illegal, so pitching up on Little Budworth Common or in Delamere Forest without prior arrangement is not an option; instead, look to the licensed campsites and glamping sites scattered across this part of Cheshire, many making the most of the same heath and forest scenery that draws walkers to the area. The heathland setting means well-drained pitches even after rain, though the mix of open heath and dense woodland close by can mean sheltered and exposed spots sit only a short walk apart, so it's worth checking a site's specific setting before booking.

Late spring through summer is the best season to camp here, when the heather and gorse on Little Budworth Common are at their most colourful, evenings are long enough for a walk into Delamere Forest after pitching up, and the ponds on the common come alive with dragonflies. Race weekends at Oulton Park can bring a surge of demand for nearby camping and caravan pitches, so campers wanting a quieter stay may prefer to check the circuit's calendar before choosing dates. Autumn offers rich colour in the forest and cooler, quieter nights for those who prefer their camping without a crowd.

For those who'd rather skip the tent, glamping options in the wider area range from bell tents and shepherd's huts to fully equipped pods, giving easier access to this stretch of Cheshire's sandstone country without sacrificing home comforts. Whatever the choice, the combination of heathland, forest and a couple of proper village pubs within walking or short driving distance makes this a rewarding, low-key corner of Cheshire to pitch up in.