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Through the Kissing Gate

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· North Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, England
1 acre hosted by Becky L.
20 RV/tent sites
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Best in North East England: Finalist
Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2023.
Back-to-basics camping with campfires close to World Heritage-listed Studley Park near Ripon

The Taj Mahal, The Great Wall of China, the Acropolis… all are World Heritage Sites — just like Studley Park and the Ruins of Fountains Abbey near Ripon in North Yorkshire. It may not conjure up the romance of the Taj or the might of the Great Wall but, trust us, this is an inspiring place. They say the devout monks who founded the now-ruined abbey were looking for a more simple existence here. Whether you’re seeking that, too, or just want to peek at the place they left behind, you’ll do well to make the most of a visit by slipping through the kissing gate into the campsite that's just next door.

Through the Kissing Gate is a 28-day campsite operating on selected spring and summer weekends: exactly the kind of lazy days that are set aside for visiting National Trust properties out in the countryside. As such, its location so close to Fountains Abbey makes it perfect for a weekend away – as long as you are keen on proper back-to-basics camping that is. This is a farm campsite that pops up with the simplest of facilities for campers with tents and campervans only.

The campsite occupies two fields in amongst miles of North Yorkshire farmland. One is set aside for camping with 20 pitches for tents and three for campervans, the other is where you’ll find the facilities. Campfires are allowed, dogs are welcome and you can park up next to your pitch. There’s a cold-water, under-cover washing-up sink in an open sided barn, a Porta-style loo or two (depending on how many are staying) and the simplest open-air shower cubicle we’ve seen. Yes, you have to warm your own water in a bucket over the campfire to use it. It’s refreshingly rustic and may not be for everyone — but outdoor enthusiasts will be keen and your kids will never forget it.

There are lovely walks in the surrounding countryside and Ripon, with its cathedral, museums, shops and cafes, is a short drive away. But the most obvious attraction is worth another mention: You won’t want to miss slipping through the kissing gate and along the public footpath to Studley Park and the Ruins of Fountains Abbey. You’ll find deer-filled parkland and elegant 18th-century riverside gardens which incorporate the ruined abbey — along with the all-important visitor highlights of a tearoom and restaurant. There are plenty of simple farm campsites out there, but not many this close to a World Heritage Site.

Included on site - Small open plan Barn with cold water sink and washing area, and seating area. Open plan shower for the brave bring your own water. Open fields for easy use, parking available next to your pitch. Portaloo toilet. Please note if an early check in is required please request.
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2 ratings · 1 review
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Donna ?.recommends
August 24, 2023
Grass Pitch
Beautiful countryside Campsite
Absolutely loved our Roof tent Camping at Becky's "The Kissing Gate" fields. Fabulous countryside surrounds you on all sides. You have two generously sized fields to choose from, the first field which has the Kissing Gate sign (all surrounded by hedgerows & trees. The second field which has two very clean portaloo toilets, open barn and the open shower. The barn is beautifully lit up at night with soft led lights. It also has straw bale seating inside. This is where you will find a huge stainless steel sink, drinking water, and rubbish/recycling bins. Lots of wildlife spotted in and above the fields, owls, buzzards, rabbits, and pheasants. We were treated to a very pretty night sky, sadly I didn't have good enough equipment to take a good shot. Lots of walks in the area, leading from the field. One which will take you direct to The National Trust Fountains Abbey Estate. Stunning area, which includes extensive grounds, deer park, St Mary's Church, Abbey ruins, Fountains and lakes. It cost £18:95 (we didn't go in but next we will). to get into Fountains Abbey, however we wandered around the deer park and grounds for free (easily spend the day watching the deer and exploring the gardens). Personally, I love back to basics (nature) campsites. You don't need much for a camping trip. Somewhere to sleep, eat, friends & family, Nature, water, and a toilet. Thank you for the great memories 🏕
Location
North Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, England, United KingdomTraditional, ancestral territory of various First Nations according to To respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking
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Hosted by Becky L.Joined in September 2021
From the host
Bijou and rustic campsite. Set just on the edge of the beautiful National trust Fountains Abbey estate. Fabulous views open fields. Portaloo toilet and outdoor open shower provided for the brave. Its quiet, peaceful and has all the best that nature has to offer. Set just outside the sleepy hamlet of Aldfield village. Should you want to go and explore you can walk, take the local village bus or drive to the historic town of Ripon. There you will find bars, restaurants, the famous Ripon Cathedral. Police and Workhouse museum and if your more of a thrill seeker the theme park light water valley is literally a 10 minute drive away. You will be spoilt for choice of things to do and all surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Nearby attractions

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens (01765 608888) are about a mile from site, walkable in about 15 minutes for most people. It's a National Trust site with World Heritage-listed gardens, picnic areas, deer and the ruins of an impressive abbey. Ripon is about four miles away and the pretty market town of Patley Bridge, within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is about eight miles away. Newby Hall (01423 322 583), a stately home with boat rides, a miniature railway and lovely gardens is also eight miles away. It's the same distance to Lightwater Valley Theme Park.

Food and drink

The closest place for a bite to eat is the café at Fountain's Abbey. Beyond that, The Royal Oak (01765 602 284) and Storehouse Kitchen bar and restaurant (01765 600088) are recommended options in Ripon, along with Olivers Pantry ( 01765 600548) and Claro Lounge. For campsite and picnic supplies try Farmison or Appleton's Butchers and Vanora's Bakery and Deli, all in Ripon too.

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