UK campsite listings use specific terminology that is worth understanding before booking.
Pitch types
- Grass pitch: standard unmarked grass area. Can become muddy in wet weather.
- Hardstanding: gravel or concrete surface — stays usable in rain.
- Electric hook-up: 230V connection for campervans, caravans and electric airbeds.
- Non-electric: tent pitches without power.
Facilities ratings
The Camping and Caravanning Club and AA both rate campsites on facilities. A 5-star campsite has hot showers, flushing loos, a shop and additional amenities. A certificated location (CL) is a small private site with basic facilities — often quieter and more scenic.
Useful terms
- Glamping: glamorous camping — pre-pitched tents, yurts, pods with beds and often heating.
- Wild camping: camping outside designated sites — legal in Scotland, generally not in England.
- Certificated site (CL): small private site, maximum 5 caravans — often beautiful and quiet.