Camping in The Forest acquired by Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland

Camping in The Forest has been acquired by Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland from The Camping and Caravanning Club.

The move follows positive discussions between the three parties, which enables Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland to buy the controlling shareholding of 72 per cent from the Club.

It will enable each country to separately manage its future national forest camping offer.

Forestry England chief executive, Mike Seddon said: “Camping experiences bring people closer to nature and heighten their appreciation for the environment and the wildlife these precious habitats support.

“With an increasing awareness of the impact of tourism and travel, individuals and families are considering their carbon footprint and cultural impact, leading to a growth in ‘staycations’.

“We aim to connect everyone with England’s forests by creating and caring for woodlands to help businesses grow, for people to enjoy and for wildlife to flourish.

“This commitment enables us to plan for the future.

“Across the nation’s forests Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland will be better placed to provide overnight stays in beautiful forest locations, helping make memories that enhance health and wellbeing.

Forestry and Land Scotland chief executive, Simon Hodgson, said: “Camping is an important and accessible activity, which is only going to become more popular as more people consider their carbon footprint and opt for ‘staycations’.

“As well as bringing people closer to nature and heightening their appreciation of the environment, holidaying in the fresh air in some of Scotland’s most scenic forest locations is a great way to relax and recharge your batteries.”

Sabina Voysey, director General of The Camping and Caravanning Club, said: “The Club has made significant investment and demonstrated strong commitment to growing the Camping in The Forest business.

“We’re proud of our achievements with Camping in The Forest and have driven consumer awareness resulting in turnover and profitability increasing over the years, which allowed us to develop and open Sherwood Pines as a flagship campsite for Camping in The Forest in 2021.

“We’re pleased to be leaving the business in such a strong position, and the Club will work closely with Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland to ensure the transition period is as seamless as possible for Camping in The Forest’s valued customers.”

Mike Seddon added: “This is an exciting time for Forestry England and Forestry and Land Scotland to develop the future camping provision in the forests we care for.

“We are looking forward to working closely with our partners at The Camping and Caravanning Club while they operate the Camping in The Forest campsites in the year ahead as we welcome back campers to our sites for the start of the camping season.”

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