With its vast expanses of countryside and picturesque towns, Sussex is a popular destination for campers.

East Sussex has even been named the top place for camping in the South East of England, beating the competition of Kent, Hampshire and Surrey to secure the spot.

It was given the crown by Campsites.co.uk, a website where campers can search through its more than 3,000 sites listed with full descriptions.

Five campsites across Sussex have won or came second in different categories of awards.

Beech Estate Campsite in Battle won best campsite in the South East overall.

A spokesman for Campsites.co.uk said: “This enchanting woodland campsite is completely off-grid, surrounded by wildlife with bucket showers for a truly unique experience.”

The runner up for the same category was Hale Farm Campsite in Chiddingly.

Wheatfields Luxury Glamping in Rye was also named runner up for Best Glamping Site in the South East.

Bucket and Spade Holidays, near Chichester, was named the second best caravan park in the South East.

And Woodfire Camping, near Petworth, was named the second most unique campsite in the country.

The Campsites.co.uk spokesman added: “You can truly escape at Woodfire Camping in the heart of the South Downs.

"Enjoy spa-like hot showers or take in the spectacular views whilst hosts Stella and Griff cook up delicious locally sourced evening meals and breakfast."

The site also ranks their top ten campsites in Sussex, which are:

1. Wheatfields Luxury Glamping near Rye

The Argus: Wheatfields

Wheatfields has been rated five out of five by Campsites.co.uk, making it the top-rated campsites in Sussex. The campsite is set on a 500 acre farm and is secluded but offers views of the Rother Valley and easy access to Rye and Camber Sands. It received its top rating in particular for its luxury safari tents which can sleep eight to ten people with their own toilet, bathroom and kitchen.

2. Campfire Weekends near Crowborough

The Argus: Campfire Weekends

This peaceful adult-only campsite is in the heart of the High Weald. It offers weekend camping against the backdrop of breathtaking countryside. The site is made up of grass pitches for tents only and campfires are welcome.

3. Bluecaps Farm Glamping near Wadhurst

The Argus: Bluecaps FarmBluecaps Farm Glamping is set on a family-run working farm in Cousely Wood, near Wadhurst. The site has around 400 acres, breeding a range of animals, making hay and running a successful llama trekking business. Guests can stay in the shepherd huts packed with comforts, in a quiet and secluded field surrounded by woodland.

4. Seven Acre Woods near Battle

Seven Acre Woods, at Battle, is a family friendly campsite on the edge of ancient woodland. It has a no music policy to respect nature and guests can stay in cabins, bell tents or their own tents.

5. Beech Estate Campsite near Battle

The Argus: Beech Estate

Set in private woodland, the Beech Estate campsite offers an authentic experience with bucket showers and campfires. 

6. Scallow Glamping near Lewes

The Argus: Scallow Glamping

Near Lewes, Scallow Glamping is a members only campsite. There are grass pitches for hardy campers or fully-equipped glamping pods for those who prefer home comforts.

7. The Secret Campsite near Lewes

The Argus: The Secret Campsite

The Secret Campsite is focused on nature, peace and space. Surrounded by ancient woodland, campers can enjoy the natural world, campfires and the dawn chorus from their tents. The site provides facilities including electric vehicle charging and plenty of solar powered hot water for showers.

8. Heronsdale Manor Farm Campsite near Heathfield

The Argus: Heronsdale Manor Farm

This simple farm campsite is near the village of Waldron and not far from Lewes. Camping is on a three-acre field with a small area of woodland and guests can choose an open pitch with countryside views or a more secluded spot.

The farm is happy to have tents, campervans and caravans and can also arrange to hire bell tents for glampers if requested.

9. Hook Farm Campsite, near East Grinstead

The Argus: Hook Farm

This family-run campsite is in a beautiful valley near the Bluebell Railway. It is perfect for families as it has its own woodland in the centre of the campsite for children to explore and play.

10. Wild Boar Wood Campsite, near Haywards Heath

The Argus: Wild Boar Wood

Wild Boar Wood Campsite offers a magical woodland glamping experience. Tucked amongst the trees, the furnished pre-erected bell tents are complete with beds, cooking equipment and their own firepit. Visit in April to see the site transformed by a carpet of bluebells. You can relax by the campfire, explore the woods and wave at the passing vintage steam trains of the Bluebell Railway.