Several contenders are jostling for the position of top UK camp site, but with the AA holding on to its offline-only listings, competition is not fierce. Be especially wary of sites that claim to be comprehensive but actually charge owners to list their pitch; you'd be much better off calling the local tourist board.
Closely resembles the McCoy Internet Guide, but produces slightly better results in a similarly dispassionate fashion.
Only 15 of the farms here offer camping pitches, but it might be worthwhile contacting others who offer bed and breakfast accommodation to see if they would accept a tent.
Don't forget that 36 YHA hostels will let you camp in their grounds, although you can't borrow the cooking equipment in the kitchens.
Camping and Tramping... in England and Wales
An excellent and well-written guide to camping in the Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia, the Dales and the Peak and Lake Districts. The grid references and pub recommendations are especially useful, and the walking routes are pretty invaluable too. This was also the only site to list both campsites in Beddgelert, at the foot of Snowdon.
British Holiday and Home Parks Association
All the sites listed here are members of the BH&HPA, which means they receive a star rating and "Bellamy" ratings - the latter for parks that practise good environmental management.
A reliable and detailed search that gives well-illustrated results for north of the border. You can stipulate, for example, that you want particular facilities or a site next to a loch.
A searchable directory of the larger and better equipped British campsites. To find more details of sites in Devon and Cornwall, try www.westcountrynow.com (Netscape users may have problems).
Advice on all aspects of setting up and sleeping in tents - although it's written from a North American perspective, so topics such as fending off bears and chipmunks crop up.
UK-oriented guidance on the various types of tent, roofrack, stove and sundry other kinds of camping equipment which are available.
Valuable pointers on how to look after your tent, build a safe campfire and treat burns - all explained in breathless style.
