I went camping for the first time last year (since a child). Was great fun.
I got most of my advice and information on this site:
http://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/
I personally wouldn't go Quiet Man's way - when we go, we go with lots of luxuries - loo, fridge, sometimes even laptop! Don't get me wrong, we still enjoy walking and reading, but I also like to have a nice sleep on a decent air mattress etc.
If you go to the above site, you will get plenty of good advice and details of campsites.