A number of Gloucestershire campsites have been commended by The Times newspaper in a feature on Best Campsites in the Cotswolds.

Notgrove Holidays, near Bourton-on-the-Water, was said to be the 'Best for glamping' in the Cotswolds.

The Times said: "As scenic Cotswold villages off the tourist trail go, Notgrove is one to savour. It's also a place where you can rest your head on the 1,500-acre family run Notgrove Estate."

Guests staying in the fully equipped camping pods or luxurious safari tents are actively encouraged to explore the estate, meet the farm animals (including alpacas and Highland cattle) and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding countryside. There are also foraging courses, photography and creative workshops, and even dry stone walling courses for beginners.

The Cotswold Farm Park at Guiting Power, home to celebrity farmer Adam Henson, was named 'Best for farm visits', with its campsite sitting right alongside the farm park.

The Times said: "The bonus of staying here is day-rate entry to the farm park for as many visits as you like during your stay on site. Bring your own tent, caravan or motorhome and enjoy views across the Windrush Valley; alternatively hire a fully equipped safari tent or camping pod."

Also featured in the article is Abbey Home Farm, Cirencester, which The Times has declared 'Best for back-to-basics camping'. One of the nearest sites to the Cotswold Water Park, the field includes a section where vehicles, even to unload, are forbidden. Plus there's a secret woodland glade for private camping up to eight people.

The Times said: "Don't expect showers, hot water or electric hook-ups, only basic compost loos in the woods. Treat yourself to something tasty from the organic farm shop and café."

Hayles Fruit Farm, Winchcombe, was chosen as the 'Best for pick-your-own fruit'. With Hailes Abbey only yards away and sublime views, there are pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, and bell tents for hire.

The Times commented: "It's one for gastronomes and those looking to get their five-a-day — visitors staying at Hayles Fruit Farm can pick their own fruit (choose from soft fruits, apples, pears, or plums in season) or create supper with produce from the on-site farm shop."

Cirencester Park got the nod for 'Best for novice campers' in the Cotswolds. The newspaper said: "On the opposite side of Cirencester and in contrast to Abbey Home Farm, you'll find ultra-clean, extensive amenities at Cirencester Park Caravan & Motorhome Club Site. It is ideal for novice campers and caravanners who may need handholding, as it's managed by one of the largest camping organisations in the UK."

The campsite is set in grade I listed dog-friendly parkland on the vast Bathurst Estate.

Thistledown at Nympsfield was declared 'Best for green credentials'. One of the most popular tent-only campsites in the Cotswolds, it is based on a small, organic, family-run farm west of Nailsworth.

The Times said: "You'll need to be speedy to book a pitch as, in particular, summer weekends can become fully booked quite quickly. Green values are emphasised on this environmental and ethical campsite, with much of the site vehicle-free; expect to wheelbarrow your gear to the tent pitches. Campfires are allowed and home-cooked pizzas served in the café.

Field Barn Park, Bourton-on-the-Water, won the accolade for 'Best for adult-only'. With 600 or so trees on site, the overriding feel is that of peace and serenity. This is an adult-only site, exclusively for over-30s, without the frills of leisure centres or reception areas. Charming Bourton-on-the-Water, with its many cafés and riverside tea rooms, is less than two miles away.

Star Glamping, Ullenwood, with just four camping pods for between two and four people and a two-person yurt, was given the honour of 'Best for social enterprise'.

Campers can reserve a table at StarBistro, within the grounds or order a gourmet breakfast or barbecue food hamper, with fresh, local produce.

The Times said: "This is social enterprise camping at its best. All profits go towards National Star, a college assisting young people with disabilities, while StarBistro provides those youngsters with valuable work experience."