- Darlington
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Bell tent camping near Darlington guide
Where to go
Around Darlington
On the eastern leg of the Teesdale Way, Darlington is a convenient stop off for hikers and bikers, with country parks, nature reserves, and a community woodland providing plenty for outdoor enthusiasts within the city’s reaches. Campgrounds and caravan parks can be found in the Darlington countryside, along with working farms providing back-to-basics experiences.
North York Moors National Park
Just under an hour’s drive from Darlington, the North York Moors boast dramatic coastline and vast moorland, plus family-friendly holiday parks and farm sites aplenty. The Cleveland Way National Trail cuts a scenic route through the park’s diverse landscapes, making it a destination for ramblers and riders.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Only 15 miles (25 kilometres) from Darlington, the market town of Richmond offers a gateway into one of England’s most famous landscapes. No-frill farm sites, hilltop campgrounds, and glamping pods provide accommodation options for all types of adventurer, while the region’s caves, cascades, and gorges—including Cautley Spout, England's highest above-ground waterfall—are a playground for watersports enthusiasts.
North Pennines AONB
Also on the Pennine Way, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just north of the Yorkshire Dales draws adventurers with its day-time and night-time offerings, including the impressive High Force waterfall and several Dark Sky Sites. Wild-style camping is popular here, while Eden Valley to the west hosts several working farm campgrounds.
Northumberland National Park
At the northern border of England, around 40 miles (65 kilometres) from Darlington, this vast landscape is best known for its secluded campgrounds, low crowds, and abundance of flora and fauna. Adventurers can follow Hadrian’s Wall, hike the remote Otterburn Ranges, or ride across the rolling Cheviot Hills, looking out for native wild goats, red squirrels, and all manner of birdlife along the way.
When to go
Not all campgrounds remain open during the winter season and the relative seclusion of the region means off-season scheduling isn’t necessary to beat the crowds. Plus, off-road trails are generally more accessible from spring to early autumn, before the icy northern frost settles.
Know before you go
- Darlington is two hours from Edinburgh and two-and-a-half hours from London via train.
- Several towns around the national parks or AONBs are connected to Darlington via bus or train, though it can be more convenient and quicker to bring your own vehicle.
- Some sites hire out camping gear. Otherwise, branches of camping specialists Trespass and Millets can be found in Darlington’s city centre.
- Not all sites allow walk-ins, so check or book ahead of time.