Camping in the New Forest: Good food, great company and a new way of doing things.

There's something special about escaping to the New Forest for a few days. A couple of times a year, my friend and I pack up the kids, head to Burley, and enjoy a few days of fresh air, good food, and a slower pace of life.

This trip felt a little different though. It was my first camping adventure since selling my campervan. While I absolutely loved van life, it was time for a change, so this weekend was all about embracing a more traditional safari-style camping setup. I'll admit, I was a little nervous beforehand, wondering if I'd miss the comfort and convenience of the camper. But with beautiful weather, great company, and plenty of delicious food, it didn't take long to settle into the rhythm of campsite life.

The sunshine stayed with us all weekend, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor cooking and relaxed evenings around camp. One of my favourite parts of any camping trip is planning the food, and this weekend's menu certainly didn't disappoint.

We cooked vibrant shish kebabs over the grill, marinated until beautifully charred and full of flavour. Alongside them, I made a cooling pomegranate and mango yoghurt, packed with fresh herbs and a hint of sweetness that worked perfectly with the smoky kebabs.

A colourful tomato salad brought freshness to the table, finished with dukkah for a lovely crunch and nutty flavour. Add some warm flatbreads, crisp lettuce leaves, and a generous helping of crispy onions, and we had a feast that felt far more luxurious than campsite cooking should.

Watching everyone build their own wraps loaded with juicy kebab pieces, fresh salad, and creamy yoghurt was one of those simple moments that makes camping so enjoyable. No rushing, no schedules, just good food shared outdoors.

I found myself appreciating this new chapter. While I may no longer have my campervan, this trip reminded me that it's not really about the setup. It's about the people you're with, the memories you create, and the meals that bring everyone together.

Burley was as charming as ever, the weather was kind, and the children had the freedom to run, play, and enjoy being outdoors. I'd call that a successful camping trip.

Here's to many more New Forest adventures — whether they're in a campervan or under canvas.