By Lewis Mottram 

Let’s be honest — when you find a cracking campsite, it’s only fair to pass it on, right? I’m not about to throw around the term “hidden gem” but what I will say is these are campsites we’ve actually stayed at, and each one has earned a place on the list for its own little reasons.

So, what makes a campsite great? That really depends on what you’re after. Personally, I love sites that feel open and spacious — give me big pitches and even bigger views any day. I’m usually off exploring, whether it’s a coastal hike or a cold plunge in the sea, so having a decent shower to come back to is always a win. And if the place is a bit rustic or rough around the edges? Even better. It’s all part of the adventure.

Being based in Doncaster, our go-to coastline is over on the East — from wild old Spurn Point right up through Scarborough and Whitby. There’s loads to discover along that stretch, but for now, here are my Top 3 favourite spots so far, and why I think they’re worth a visit…

---

Hollym Airfield 📍 

Pulling into the site, the first thing that hits you is the open space. It’s flat, well-kept, and beautifully rural. There’s something very calming about being surrounded by big skies, big seas and the occasional light aircraft gently buzzing overhead. It’s quirky in the best way.

Hollym Airfield was one of the very first places I pitched up in The Green Goblin — and I’ve found myself coming back time and time again. What I love most is that every visit brings something new; there’s always been a little upgrade or improvement since the last time. You can tell the owners really care about what they’re building here. They’re clearly investing time, effort, and love into making the site better with each season — and it shows.

One of those rare finds that feels both off-grid and welcoming. Whether you’re touring in a campervan or pitching a tent, this site offers a peaceful escape with a unique backdrop. The camping field is an open pitch where you park set up which I love, you really can’t camp much closer to the beach without being on it. Endless sea views out of the van make this one of my favorite places for a wind down and some peace and quiet.

The facilities here are spot on — always clean, well looked after, and easy to access. There’s fresh water, electric hook-up, waste disposal, and a couple of decent showers and toilets. Nothing fancy, just everything you actually need for a comfortable stay.

The vibe is really chilled. The owners are friendly and always up for a chat, and the site tends to attract a nice mix of vanlifers, campers, and the occasional aviation buff. If you’re in the mood to socialise, it’s easy to strike up a conversation — but if you’re after peace and quiet, there’s more than enough space to just park up and switch off.

Fancy a walk? The main attraction for me is the walk down to Spurn Point. Stretching some 3–3½ miles from the Spurn Discovery Centre, the first mile or so is on soft beach sand.followed by firmer terrain—sand blending into pebbles, dunes and occasional concrete paths.

Along the way you will come across an iconic Victorian lighthouse at the tip, old military structures and plenty of wildlife with the potential for a seal sighting or two, birds, deer and the odd local.

---

The Hulleys📍

Tucked away just outside the quiet village of Cloughton, Hulley’s Campsite is one of those spots that instantly makes you slow down and breathe a little deeper. If you’re heading up the Yorkshire coast in your van or with a tent in tow, this place is well worth a stop.

I stayed here recently in the Boxer, probably mine and Si’s first outing in the new vans together and honestly, it ticked all the right boxes for me. It’s a no-fuss, easy-going site with everything you need — generous pitches, basic but clean facilities, and a peaceful setting that feels properly rural while still being within easy reach of the coastline.

What I loved most was the space. Set pitches here but you’re not crammed in or penned between hedges — there’s room to breathe, take in the views, and actually relax. The vibe is chilled, and the owner was happy to have a chat as he passed by on his ride on the mower, keeping the great shape without overdoing it.

From the site, you’re a short stroll from the Cinder Track (the old railway line turned walking/cycling path), which can take you straight into Scarborough or up towards Robin Hood’s Bay. You’re also just a quick drive or walk down to the beach at Hayburn Wyke — a rugged little cove with waterfalls, woodland, and plenty of spots to sit with a brew and take it all in.

If something more than a brew is required I would recommend Bryherstones Country Inn. Friendly atmosphere, solid pub grub, relaxed vibe—ideal for families and campers seeking a pleasant evening pint or meal within an easy, 10 minute walking distance.

There’s something refreshingly simple about Hulley’s. No playgrounds, no clubhouse, no noisy groups — just a quiet, well-kept site with sea air and starlit skies. It’s the kind of place you almost don’t want to tell too many people about… but it deserves the praise.

---

Hooks House Farm📍

Hooks House Farm is one of those places that stays with you. It’s simple, friendly, and set in one of the most stunning spots on the Yorkshire coast. Ideal for anyone looking to wind down, reconnect with nature, and wake up to the sound of the sea.

Pulling in you’re immediately hit by the view. It’s the kind of sweeping coastal panorama that makes you want to just stop the van, grab a brew, and soak it all in. Perched high above Robin Hood’s Bay, the site has a gentle slope and a feeling of wide open space – sea to the front, moorland rolling behind. It’s peaceful, simple, and feels like a proper escape.

The facilities here are everything you would need. Showers are always clean, water’s hot, toilets are spotless, and there’s a small wash-up area with a kettle, microwave and freezer for ice packs. No flashy extras, just well-thought-out basics done properly.

The vibe here is proper laid-back, you’ll often find someone happy to talk walks, waves or where to get a decent pint. But if you’d rather just switch off and listen to the wind coming off the North Sea, there’s plenty of space to do just that.

Let's face it though, the main attraction is Robin Hood’s Bay. The trail down into Robin Hood’s Bay. It’s about a ten-minute wander down the hill and takes you straight into cobbled lanes, fossil-hunting beaches, and a village full of smuggler’s tales. Coming back up is a bit more of a challenge (especially if you’ve had a couple in the pubs down in the bay) but it’s nothing too serious, and it’s absolutely worth it for the sunset view from the top.

Share & follow

For any inquiries, please contact:

Lewis Mottram

Email lew@vanthology.co.uk

Website vanthology.co.uk