Campsites with campfires in Grizedale Forest

Grizedale Forest stands tall as one of England’s iconic outdoor destinations. Encircled by the Lake District National Park, this was one of the UK’s first public areas of forestry, and today, campers can take off from the visitor centre to several marked trails and a high-level ropes course. The focus in the forest’s west is fabled Coniston Water with its watersports and cross-lake boat trips, while northern Grizedale hosts a legendary mountain biking route and is bounded by Hawkshead village. Meanwhile, Lake Windermere brushes the eastern limits of the forest. The nearest camping sites can be found just south of Grizedale Forest.

97% (531)

Top-rated campgrounds

Grizedale Forest stands tall as one of England’s iconic outdoor destinations. Encircled by the Lake District National Park, this was one of the UK’s first public areas of forestry, and today, campers can take off from the visitor centre to several marked trails and a high-level ropes course. The focus in the forest’s west is fabled Coniston Water with its watersports and cross-lake boat trips, while northern Grizedale hosts a legendary mountain biking route and is bounded by Hawkshead village. Meanwhile, Lake Windermere brushes the eastern limits of the forest. The nearest camping sites can be found just south of Grizedale Forest.

97% (531)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(149)

47 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Millom, England

Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep

2. Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

96%

(60)

40 units · Glamping · Preston, Lancashire, North West England

Lakeside rural tranquility and the 'kiss-me-quick' fun of the seaside – you can have the best of both worlds at Stanley Villa Farm's cute camping pods

3. Woodman's Huts

99%

(58)

3 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes

4. Masons Campsite

27 units · Motorhomes · Skipton Bd23 6 Dd, England

On the banks of a river, with open views over the Yorkshire Dales and lots of space for games, with a pair of great pubs nearby

5. King Garth

100%

(9)

1 unit · Glamping · Carlisle, England

Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.

6. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Carlisle, England

A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall

7. Social District

92%

(93)

30 units · Tents · Grizedale, Cumbria, North West England

Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.

8. Trawden Forest Glamping

100%

(13)

3 units · Glamping · Trawden, England

Grown-up pod glamping on a woodland site in Lancashire

9. The Old Chapel Campsite

98%

(97)

30 units · Tents · Murton, England

Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines

10. Moss Rose Campsite

99%

(61)

28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Pilling, Preston, England

We have a family friendly Quiet campsite in the heart of Lancashire on our family run farm. Our site is situated in a species rich meadow field with large mown Pitches surrounded by wild flowers and meandering pathways linking the site together. We are surrounded by a young trees & woodland with the back drop of the Pennines. We offer both glamping and traditional non EHU camping on our site, with lovely hot showers, clean toilet facilities, fresh water point, pot wash area, phone charger lockers, communal freezers, elsan disposal point, microwave, coffee/hot chocolate machine, and our little honesty shack with all little camping essentials to might need whilst staying with us. We also hire out picnic benches and fire pits to help enhance your camping experience. We have a lovely little woodland walk, with a meandering mown path, that winds through our woodland/conservation area. Perfect to walk your dog, and let your kids explore. Adjoining the campsite, we have a padock with super frindly sheep that love to say hello. We sell little bags of sheep feed, just incase you'd like to give them a little treat. In the middle of the site, we have a little tots play area, perfect for keeping you're small kids entertained. We are a Quiet family site, with a Reduced Noise policy from 9 pm, and Quiet Time from 10 pm to 8.30 am. Latest check in time is 8PM, unless prearranged with the campsite. Our site has close links to the A6 and m6 J33. We are only 13 miles from the Historic city of Lancaster, the Bright lights of Blackpool and the jubilee city of Preston. 4 miles from the first fair trade market town of Garstang and 45 mins into the Lake District. There is also lots of interesting activities to do locally.

11. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%

(131)

33 units · Tents · Cumbria, North West England

Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views

12. Primrose Cottage Camping

100%

(8)

13 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Chorley, England

A quiet adult-only site (this site does not cater for children), with tents and campervans only, nestled below Healey Nab in the Lancashire Countryside. Rustic and back to basics is what this site is all about. Set amid spectacular countryside, grassy fields, woodland and streams to boot! Well behaved four legged friends are more than welcome. Campfires and good times allowed. *Please note loud music is not allowed.* Flat walks are a plenty along the Leeds and Liverpool canal or maybe a circular walk to white White Coppice might float your boat? For the hill walkers amongst us there is Great Hill and Rivington Pike to climb. Within walking distance or a few minutes drive there is pub at the end of the lane and local shops within the vicinity for those last minute snacks. Chorley town centre is 10 minutes drive away and we are close to the M61 which can take you to the Lake district in less than an hour, Manchester or Blackpool are roughly 30 Minutes away.

13. Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%

(3)

46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England

Nestled in the heart of breathtaking countryside, Brayshaw View Campsite offers a peaceful retreat with stunning panoramic views, fresh air, and the perfect spot to unwind. From scenic hiking trails to charming local villages, explore the best spots to visit, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone. Discover Local Places Uncover hidden gems, charming villages, and scenic spots waiting to be explored. Experience the best of the local area, from historic landmarks to breathtaking nature trails. Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Settle Malham Bolton Abbey Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Things to Do Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy outdoor activities, experiences, and family-friendly fun to make the most of your stay. Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Ingleborough Cave Ingleton Falls White Scar Caves Vertical Skills Thornton Hall Farm Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Places To Eat & Drink Enjoy a taste of the local area with welcoming pubs serving hearty meals and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re after a traditional pint or a homemade bite to eat, you’ll find a warm atmosphere and friendly service. Crow Trees Inn The Plough Bike Hire & Training Explore the great outdoors with bike hire and training options for all levels. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous ride or a leisurely cycle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

14. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(8)

4 units · Glamping · Brampton, England

Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.

15. Grinsdale Campsite

1 unit · Tent, Motorhome · England

Wild camping with water and toilets on site, also the King Charles coastal path, just 2 minutes from Hadrians Wall and next to the River Eden.

16. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

1 unit · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere

17. The Black Swan

100%

(26)

3 units · Glamping · Kirkby Stephen, England

Our three, brand new wood and canvas yurts are nestled in our private, woodland hotel garden beside the beautiful conservation (SSSI) river of Scandal Beck. Just a short drive from The Lake District, The Yorkshire and Durham Dales as well as The Scottish Border, we are perfectly located for you to explore. The yurts themselves are individually decorated with full size furniture, electricity and double beds. The yurts are all located in the garden of The Black Swan Hotel, Ravenstonedale, a multi award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar; recipient of 2 AA Rosettes as well as AA pub of the year for England 2018/19. As part of your stay in our yurts you will receive a full cooked breakfast and buffet option included in the price for 2 people in our hotel restaurant. We like to think of ourselves as a cosy home from home with a relaxed dining atmosphere throughout. We are very dog friendly in the hotel, restaurant, bar and yurts so please bring your furry family members. Our beautiful woodland is also home to red squirrels (which are seen daily), protected, freshwater crayfish in the river, an otter (seen very infrequently but the nemesis of our ducks), 6 Indian runner ducks, free range chickens and our two cockerels! (Dogs are very welcome but are to be kept on a lead whilst in the woodland itself). We are very dog friendly and charge an additional fee of £15 for 1 dog/ £20 for 2 dogs for an additional cleaning fee and for some dog friendly goodies such as poop bags and treats. The price of this yurt is based on an occupancy of 2 people. Any other people who will be staying on the sofa bed will add a charge of £40 per person per night for breakfast and their stay. All yurts come with electrical battery pack, chargeable lanterns, tea/coffee, homemade biscuits, log burning stoves, towels, full breakfast included from the hotel, an outdoor seating area and access to our outdoor toasty warm woodland shower as well as our very cute, wooden toilet cabin. Hairdryers are available in the hotel for your use.

18. Peaks and Pods

100%

(25)

5 units · Glamping · North Yorkshire, North East England

Luxury pods with extra special touches, sandwiched between the Forest of Bowland and the Yorkshire Dales National Park

19. Hazel Mount Fellside

98%

(49)

5 units · Tents · Eskdale, Cumbria, North West England

Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary

20. Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

1 unit · Glamping · Lambrigg, England

An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales

Camper favorites in and near Grizedale Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%

(3)

46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England

Nestled in the heart of breathtaking countryside, Brayshaw View Campsite offers a peaceful retreat with stunning panoramic views, fresh air, and the perfect spot to unwind. From scenic hiking trails to charming local villages, explore the best spots to visit, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone. Discover Local Places Uncover hidden gems, charming villages, and scenic spots waiting to be explored. Experience the best of the local area, from historic landmarks to breathtaking nature trails. Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Settle Malham Bolton Abbey Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Things to Do Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy outdoor activities, experiences, and family-friendly fun to make the most of your stay. Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Ingleborough Cave Ingleton Falls White Scar Caves Vertical Skills Thornton Hall Farm Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Places To Eat & Drink Enjoy a taste of the local area with welcoming pubs serving hearty meals and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re after a traditional pint or a homemade bite to eat, you’ll find a warm atmosphere and friendly service. Crow Trees Inn The Plough Bike Hire & Training Explore the great outdoors with bike hire and training options for all levels. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous ride or a leisurely cycle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(8)

4 units · Glamping · Brampton, England

Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.

Grinsdale Campsite

1 unit · Tent, Motorhome · England

Wild camping with water and toilets on site, also the King Charles coastal path, just 2 minutes from Hadrians Wall and next to the River Eden.

The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

1 unit · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere

The Black Swan

100%

(26)

3 units · Glamping · Kirkby Stephen, England

Our three, brand new wood and canvas yurts are nestled in our private, woodland hotel garden beside the beautiful conservation (SSSI) river of Scandal Beck. Just a short drive from The Lake District, The Yorkshire and Durham Dales as well as The Scottish Border, we are perfectly located for you to explore. The yurts themselves are individually decorated with full size furniture, electricity and double beds. The yurts are all located in the garden of The Black Swan Hotel, Ravenstonedale, a multi award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar; recipient of 2 AA Rosettes as well as AA pub of the year for England 2018/19. As part of your stay in our yurts you will receive a full cooked breakfast and buffet option included in the price for 2 people in our hotel restaurant. We like to think of ourselves as a cosy home from home with a relaxed dining atmosphere throughout. We are very dog friendly in the hotel, restaurant, bar and yurts so please bring your furry family members. Our beautiful woodland is also home to red squirrels (which are seen daily), protected, freshwater crayfish in the river, an otter (seen very infrequently but the nemesis of our ducks), 6 Indian runner ducks, free range chickens and our two cockerels! (Dogs are very welcome but are to be kept on a lead whilst in the woodland itself). We are very dog friendly and charge an additional fee of £15 for 1 dog/ £20 for 2 dogs for an additional cleaning fee and for some dog friendly goodies such as poop bags and treats. The price of this yurt is based on an occupancy of 2 people. Any other people who will be staying on the sofa bed will add a charge of £40 per person per night for breakfast and their stay. All yurts come with electrical battery pack, chargeable lanterns, tea/coffee, homemade biscuits, log burning stoves, towels, full breakfast included from the hotel, an outdoor seating area and access to our outdoor toasty warm woodland shower as well as our very cute, wooden toilet cabin. Hairdryers are available in the hotel for your use.

Peaks and Pods

100%

(25)

5 units · Glamping · North Yorkshire, North East England

Luxury pods with extra special touches, sandwiched between the Forest of Bowland and the Yorkshire Dales National Park

Hazel Mount Fellside

98%

(49)

5 units · Tents · Eskdale, Cumbria, North West England

Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary

Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

1 unit · Glamping · Lambrigg, England

An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales

Stories from the community

E

Ellen

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to King Garth

We absolutely loved our stay at King Garth! It is located in such a tranquil location beside the river and away from other houses, but with alpacas for company! The hot tub was perfect to relax in and we enjoyed a cosy, candlelit evening inside by the fire afterwards! It was fascinating to read about the history of the building too! Will definitely be back :)

Tom

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Lovely spot to camp. The little creek made for some tranquil background noise to fall asleep & the local hiking was very picturesque. Thanks!

V

Virginia

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Lovely location, beautiful views. Comfortable pod and great with enclosed garden for the dog. Good facilities too.

M

Michael

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Great spot to camp. Ted is very friendly and accomodating!

D

Duco

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We loved camping at Hazel Mount Fellside. The view was stunning and it felt more like a piece of nature with some scattered campsites than the opposite, which you most often find. Ruth was a very nice and welcoming host.

n

natasha

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood

We stayed in the yurt at Fairy Glen Wood and it was just perfect. It had everything we needed for a relaxing little retreat peaceful, comfortable, and surrounded by nature. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely love to come back!

K

Kerry

September 2025

3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut

I absolutely loved it here . It was my own piece of heaven ❤️

S

Sean

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to King Garth

We stayed as a birthday treat for my 12 year old. 2 adults, 4 children and our dog. It was a truly fantastic stay from start to finish. Such a unique house and experience. The kids absolutely loved swimming in the river, looking after the alpacas, the hot tub and going back to basics. It was lovely seeing them enjoying themselves with no distractions of the modern world. Games by candle light and food over the bbq, what more could you ask for. Jane was fantastic and made sure we knew everything that was needed before we arrived. Can’t wait to come back.

S

Suzy

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Otter Moss Accommodation

What a beautiful place! Everything we could possibly need was there for us on arrival; the pod was lovely and cozy and it was great to be able to sit out around the firepit in the evening. Birdsong everywhere and plenty of wildlife to see around the place. Sadly it was a bit wet to try the boat out but will have to come back on a sunnier day!

Nova

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We were lucky enough to get the site for ourselves for this trip and it was absolutely magical. the land and its views are so beautiful, it’s the first campsite i’ve been to that felt connected to the land it was on :’) ruth’s passion for the place shone, and all of the animals are so cute and special and it was so peaceful being there

Richard

August 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Moss Rose Campsite

Absolutely tranquil and family friendly site, second only to the amazing family run operation, which was so welcoming. Both John and Joe were interested in making our stay as comfortable as possible without being overbearing. They care for their site and their customers. We will definitely return like the many repeat customers they entertain, proving that they have got their product just right. Thanks again

E

Emma

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Moss Rose Campsite

Our second time here. Absolutely wonderful hosts, John would’ve put our tent up for us just to stop us arguing!! They’re always around, cleaning, helping and chatting. Never known hosts like that before, it’s so nice. Loved all the baby birds!! Will definitely be back, thanks for a wonderful stay. Love Emma, Matt, Chloe and Alyssa xxx

M

Maria

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Social District

The views were beautiful!! We camped next to the lake so my husband and boys spent most of the time fishing. Will definitely go again next year and bring the paddling board with us

R

Rimas

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Old Chapel Campsite

I had the most wonderful stay at this campsite over the weekend. It’s such a lovely spot, set on a farmyard where chickens, ducks, and geese wander around freely, which gives it a really peaceful and charming atmosphere. Each pitch comes with its own firepit, and wood is thoughtfully provided – such a nice touch that made the evenings really special. The host, Ted, is absolutely brilliant. He’s a genuinely lovely, well-spoken gentleman who takes the time to come around the site to check that everyone is happy and comfortable. You really feel looked after here. It’s rare to find a campsite that feels this welcoming and relaxed. Honestly, I can’t say a bad word about it – it’s perfect. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a cosy, friendly getaway.

H

Heather

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Old Chapel Campsite

Ted was so friendly and made sure we were as comfortable possible during our stay. He went above and beyond to help with anything we needed. We will definitely come back, thank you 😊

L

Laura

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

I loved staying at the old chapel! It was lovely with amazing views and not far from more amazing spots! Ted was a lovely host and made the stay even better, would 100% recommend.

E

Eva

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

We had a fantastic stay! Ted was an incredible host - welcoming, helpful, and made sure everything ran smoothly. The land itself is absolutely beautiful, well-maintained, clean and views are stunning. Even during a busy bank holiday weekend, there was plenty of space for everyone, so it didn’t felt crowded. A lovely bonus was the presence of ducks and chickens on the property, which meant we had access to delicious fresh eggs in the morning..such a treat! We thoroughly enjoyed our time here and will definitely be returning. Highly recommended!

G

Google2

August 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Moss Rose Campsite

Such a great place to go camping, the owners are amazing people and are always more then happy to help with anything, they have good facilities with hot water, showers, pot washing station, cold drinking water. They also have a small nature walk on site and long meadow grass and wild flower between plots. The plots are nicely spread out with lots of room between other campers and the pots are a good size. 10/10 would highly recommend

E

Elma

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Black Swan

Initially I wasn’t sure taking the lantern to do your (compost) toilet trip of 1.5 minutes but it worked as long as your mind doesn’t run wild in the dark when you’re on your own! But it all adds up to the whole experience of glamping without running water and electricity in the yurt. I loved the hot shower outside (I also used it to wash my hands after using the toilet), the sound of the stream, the hares who were very elusive, the log burner and the pub breakfast (included in the booking) and the pub food. I had to leave very early, it was still pitch black and I looked at the sky, it was magical with the stars and I even thought I could see 1-2 galaxies; I’m probably exaggerating but it was that clear without the light pollution. I loved the whole experience! Thank you!

A

Ally

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Just returning from our first visit to Cardewlees and we could not of asked for a better stay. Cardewlees is an absolute little gem of a campsite and Johnny could not have been a better host if he tried. Toilet and showering facilities were more than adequate and the water was always nice and warm. Thank you for a perfect stay and we look forward to coming back soon. Ally and Lee x

Dog-friendly getaways

Copy House Hideaway

100%

(67)

2 units · Glamping · Lancashire, North West England

Luxury shepherd's huts with wood-fired hot tubs and an adjoining log cabin for extra space

Lake District Herdwick Huts

100%

(1)

5 units · Glamping · Rydal, England

You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat! You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by. Each with fresh linen, wood burning stove and cast iron gas hob, you are sure to be comfortable even in the thick of winter.

Stone Raise Bells

92%

(6)

3 units · Glamping · Carlisle, England

Off-grid bell tents on a working farm in Cumbria’s Eden Valley

Damson View Glamping

100%

(55)

5 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Self-contained glamping pods in the Lake District's beautiful Lyth Valley

Renison's Farm

100%

(1)

1 unit · Glamping · Penrith, Cumbria, North West England

Off-grid wagon glamping on a farm with views of Lake District fells

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites with campfires in Grizedale Forest guide

Where to go

Central Grizedale

Halfway along the road running north-to-south through the forest is the visitor centre and its Go Ape high-level ropes course, featuring one of Britain’s longest series of ziplines. Here you can also find Segway hires and several walking and cycling trails. The best waymarked walk is the 10-mile, artwork-dotted Silurian Way. Nearby, Carron Crag offers excellent views and access to camping and caravan parks on the forest’s southern edge and to the northeast around Hawkshead.

Southern Grizedale

From the parking areas arranged around the southern end of the forest, hook up with the way-marked Silurian Way, tackle a forest biking trail, visit the churning rapids of Force Falls, or take advantage of the Grizedale Forest’s most conveniently located campsite, south of Satterthwaite village. Further east toward Windermere are the magical Graythwaite Hall Gardens, open in spring and summer only.

Coniston Water

One of the Lake District’s most celebrated lakes, Coniston Water frames Grizedale Forest’s western end. The Brantwood country estate, former residence of the Victorian writer and arts patron John Ruskin, sits caught between forest and lakeshore along eastern Coniston Water. Cross-lake summertime ferries connect to Coniston village and the western shore, where you can walk the Cumbria Way along the lake’s only road-free stretch. Pitch in southern Grizedale or along Coniston Water’s west shore.

Hawkshead & Northern Grizedale

The winsome village of Hawkshead, much of which is owned by the National Trust, is a fine base for adventures into the forest’s northern reaches. Hawkshead heads up Esthwaite Water and houses the Beatrix Potter Museum, displaying the writer and illustrator’s original artworks. The forest’s best mountain-biking is also in the north, on trails like the challenging, red-graded singletrack North Face Trail. Hawkshead offers the handiest pitching.