Strawberry Fields Adults Only Campsite

In the 10 mile divide between the ancient trees of the New Forest and rolling hills of the South Downs, the pristine River Test weaves through the countryside towards Southampton. On its banks, the Queen and Prince Philip once picnicked as they honeymooned in the Palladian mansion of Broadlands, its groomed gardens extending down to the waterside. The crystal chandeliers and long mahogany tables of this stately home may be perfect for love-locked monarchs, but crossing the bridge and heading a few miles further inland leads you to the more modest sort of accommodation that Cool Camping lives for; a secluded little site in equally picturesque surroundings.

Down a leafy lane bound for the charming farmstead of Sue and Brian Hatch, a wooden gate opens into Strawberry Fields Campsite, a grassy meadow with views across the surrounding tree tops. Facilities here are certainly a little more stripped back than Her Majesty's marble-chiseled toilets. But there's a rustic simplicity about the shower, four toilets and a washing up point sheltered beneath the roof of a lean-to barn that gives the site such character. A maximum of 14 tents means there’s acres of space to roam.

This simple site is an off-shoot from Sue and Brian’s B&B business and, just a short walk from their home, campers can take advantage of the fact by ordering a cooked breakfast delivered to your tent. Munch through the farm’s own free-range eggs, before hopping in the car for a short drive to the unspoilt townscape of Romsey, best known for its Norman Abbey dating back to 1120. The historic market town is a pleasant place to browse the shops or enjoy a meal while deciding between the Solent Coast, South Downs or New Forest National Park, all of which are just a few miles away. Such a prime location makes it ideal for those who want to make the most of the outdoors: A web of footpaths and cycle trails spread into the countryside, while the Test Way follows the length of the river, famous for its excellent fishing.

Though the royals know how to pick a winning destination, it seems they arrived a few decades too early. Surely today they'd bypass the grandeur of an ageing manor house for the romantic simplicity of Strawberry Fields, a peaceful hideaway in a beautiful farm meadow. Bliss.