Camping in Helvellyn

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Scaling the 950-metre summit of Helvellyn—the third-highest peak in the Lake District National Park—has long been a popular challenge for hikers and mountaineers. There are several routes to the top, but the most scenic is via Striding Edge. Hike along dramatic mountain ridges, scramble up steep passages, then walk the summit plateau for magnificent views across the lakes and the distant Pennines. Summiting Helvellyn takes about six or seven hours return, depending on the chosen route, and there are five mountain ridges to explore. Campers will find plenty of options in nearby Ullswater and Thirlmere.

96% (623) 831 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Helvellyn

Peacock Farm Lake District Camping

1. Peacock Farm Lake District Camping

94%
(8)
Kendal, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Wake up to peaceful countryside, fresh Cumbrian air and stunning views at Peacock Farm Camping. Tucked away just minutes from Staveley and perfectly placed between Windermere and Kendal, our campsite offers the ideal base for exploring everything the Lake District has to offer—without the crowds of larger holiday parks. Whether you're pitching a tent, arriving in a campervan or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind, you'll enjoy spacious pitches with plenty of room to spread out and relax. We believe camping should feel like camping, so you'll have the freedom to choose your own spot and enjoy the open surroundings at your own pace. Our location makes it easy to explore the very best of the National Park. Within a short drive you'll find world-famous walking routes, spectacular mountain scenery, peaceful lakes, traditional villages, cycling trails and cosy country pubs. If you're looking for adventure, you're in the right place. What makes Peacock Farm different is that your adventure doesn't have to stop when you arrive. Through our sister company, Genuine Adventures, you can book unforgettable outdoor activities including: Ghyll Scrambling Paddleboarding Rock Climbing Guided Mountain Walks Archery Axe Throwing Archery Tag Whether you're a family wanting to create lasting memories, a couple looking for a weekend escape or friends planning an active break, there's something for everyone. After a day exploring the Lakes, return to a peaceful campsite where you can relax, watch the sunset and enjoy a slower pace of life. With dark skies, quiet surroundings and plenty of space, it's the perfect place to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with nature. Why campers choose Peacock Farm Fantastic location near Staveley, Windermere and Kendal Spacious camping with freedom to choose your own pitch Peaceful countryside setting away from busy holiday parks Perfect base for walking, cycling and exploring the Lake District Exclusive outdoor activities available on and off site Friendly, family-run campsite with a personal welcome Whether you're planning a one-night stopover, a weekend adventure or a longer Lake District holiday, we'd love to welcome you to Peacock Farm Camping.
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Potable water
Howbeck Lodge

2. Howbeck Lodge

95%
(30)
Hesket Newmarket, England · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
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Water hookup
Moss Rose Campsite

3. Moss Rose Campsite

99%
(86)
Pilling, Preston, England · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
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. The member of you're family who book the pitch must be 21 or over. 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.
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Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

4. Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

94%
(63)
Preston, England · 22 units
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
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Campfires
Lea field shap

5. Lea field shap

93%
(7)
Penrith , England · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
LEA FIELD CAMPSITE – SHAP, PENRITH New Caravan, Motorhome, Campervan Stopover Site Please Note There are No Toilets On Site But we Do Have a Chemical Waste Point & Waste water Point Just 2 minutes from Junction 39, M6 Perfect for an overnight stop or countryside break! Enjoy stunning open views, fresh air rural setting at Lea Field Campsite in the beautiful village of Shap near Penrith. Occasional traffic and train noise due to nearby road and railway.” ✅ What We Offer ✅ Electric hook-up points ✅ Fresh water access ✅Waste disposal point ✅Spacious grass pitches ✅Easy access from the M6 ✅countryside location ✅Beautiful panoramic views Only £20 Per Night inc Electric Ideal for: ✔ Motorhomes ✔ Campervans ✔ Caravans ✔️ Tents ✔ Stopovers on your journey north or south Relax, unwind and enjoy the countryside in a simple, peaceful setting. Lea Field Campsite – Shap, Penrith📍 2 mins from M6 J39 Message now to book or enquire! ☎️01931716351 📲07908276048
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Harebeck Holidays @ Thornbank Farm

6. Harebeck Holidays @ Thornbank Farm

89%
(33)
Wasdale, England · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for extra Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire There is a communal fridge freezer. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass, a Roman port.  You can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway. Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. There are cafes at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

7. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%
(163)
Millom, England · 34 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Hazel Mount Fellside

8. Hazel Mount Fellside

97%
(53)
Eskdale, England · 5 units
Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Moss Side Farm Campsite

9. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%
(138)
Broughton In Furness, England · 25 units
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
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Showers
Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

10. Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%
(6)
England · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
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.
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Puddlemire

11. Puddlemire

98%
(63)
Kirkby Lonsdale, England · 21 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping in countryside between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Church Lane Campsite

12. Church Lane Campsite

97%
(19)
England · 36 units
Time for a slice of the simple life? Grab a peaceful Lake District pitch at Church Lane Campsite and immerse yourselves in proper scenic countryside with few distractions. This back to basics site has life’s essentials in place – in the form of drinking water, toilets and showers – but hasn’t gone overboard with other facilities, so you’ll simply be left to set up your space and soak up the gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Pitches here are on grass with trees around the field to provide a bit of shelter and shade – and the views are pretty much green as far as you can see. This setting gives the place a remote atmosphere that’s well suited to adventurous travellers, nature lovers and serenity-seeking couples or families. That said, it’s not actually all that remote – handily, you’ll be able to drive to Kendal in about 10 minutes for cultural attractions, shops and places to eat, and popular Windermere is about the same distance in the other direction. Closer still are a smart rural restaurant and the little village of Crook, a mile away and the home of the local pub – both excellent options for a good feed.
Showers
Potable water
Picnic table
Grinsdale Campsite

13. Grinsdale Campsite

90%
(5)
England · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
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 open from Easter until end of September 2026 glamping tents available
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Ewe Love Camping Pods

14. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(117)
Penrith, England · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
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Stock Park Lakeside Camping

15. Stock Park Lakeside Camping

93%
(100)
Grizedale, England · 15 units
Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.
Pets
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Showers
Cairn Meadow Pods

16. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%
(45)
Cumwhitton, England · 3 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
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Potable water
Otter Moss Accommodation

17. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%
(17)
Brampton, England · 4 units
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.
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King Garth

18. King Garth

97%
(15)
Carlisle, England · 1 unit
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.
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Hot Tub
Northcote Pods - Yorkshire Dales

19. Northcote Pods - Yorkshire Dales

100%
(12)
Grassington, England · 2 units
We are ideally located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park, with our stunning Northcote Pods situated near Kilnsey Crag. Here, you’ll find spectacular views across Upper Wharfedale. Couples and families alike love to escape to our spacious, comfortable pods; there’s no better place for a holiday getaway. Parking outside the pod leads to a paved patio area with a private wood fired hot tub (Pheasant Pod ONLY), seating, BBQ. Inside offers double bed and sofa bed to accommodate up to 2 children and a hanging rail for clothes. Smart TV with a Netflix account connected, wifi and bluetooth ceiling speakers. Shower room with sink, toilet, shavers socket and heated towel rail. Fully fitted kitchen with sink, fridge, microwave, 2 ring induction hob, toaster and kettle. Dining table and chairs. Electric heating, USB sockets.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
The Black Swan

20. The Black Swan

100%
(27)
Kirkby Stephen, England · 3 units
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.
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Helvellyn camping guide

When to go

The most popular time to climb Helvellyn is from June through September, when the weather is most favourable for hiking, and the terrain is typically dry and easily accessible. Choose a clear, dry day for the best views. The summit is still accessible throughout winter, although it’s a much more technical climb, and shorter daylight hours mean you might find yourself descending in the dark.

Know before you go

  • Helvellyn is located just north of Ambleside in the Lake District National Park. There are several routes up the mountain, but the most popular are via Striding Edge (for the most impressive views) or Swirral Edge (for the shortest and easiest way to the top). Paid parking is available in Glenridding, the starting point for both routes. 
  • Hiking Helvellyn is a moderately challenging route and best suited to intermediate hikers. Depending on the route, there are some steep sections and scrambles. Hiking outside of the main season is best left to experienced hikers. 
  • The weather on Helvellyn is notoriously changeable, and it’s essential to check conditions before setting out. Follow the Lake District Weatherline for daily updates and prepare for all seasons, even in summer.
  • Proper hiking gear and boots are essential for summiting Helvellyn. Bring an OS map and compass, plenty of food and water, sunscreen, a raincoat, and warm clothes for the summit. 
  • Wild camping is not permitted anywhere in the Lake District. However, some hikers do wild camp around Red Tarn lake on the mountain’s eastern slopes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most popular time to climb Helvellyn is from June through September, when the weather is most favourable for hiking, and the terrain is typically dry and easily accessible. The summit is still accessible throughout winter, although it’s a much more technical climb, and shorter daylight hours mean you might find yourself descending in the dark. Helvellyn is located just north of Ambleside in the Lake District National Park.

There are several routes up the mountain, but the most popular are via Striding Edge (for the most impressive views) or Swirral Edge (for the shortest and easiest way to the top). Paid parking is available in Glenridding, the starting point for both routes. Helvellyn is located just north of Ambleside in the Lake District National Park.

Wild camping is not permitted anywhere in the Lake District. However, some hikers do wild camp around Red Tarn lake on the mountain’s eastern slopes. Helvellyn is located just north of Ambleside in the Lake District National Park. You can also explore different options for camping near Helvellyn on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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