Farm glamping near Darlington

·

Surrounded by protected landscapes and boasting a pretty town centre plus plenty of natural reserves of its own, Darlington is a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in northern England. Whether you’re after quiet countryside camping or active adventure in one of England’s most iconic landscapes, you have options, with the Pennine Chain, North York Moors, and Northumberland National Park all within easy reach of the city. The region’s holiday parks are great for kicking back with the kids, while frill-free field camps and luxury glampsites let you soak up the great outdoors in your own way. Stargazers should keep an eye out for the many Dark Sky Sites scattered throughout the region.

99% (90) 138 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Darlington

Hill Top Huts

1. Hill Top Huts

97%
(121)
31km from Darlington · 12 units
Scenic, simple glamping pods set beside a welcoming Pennines pub
Pets
Showers
Wifi
from 
£70
 / night
The Black Swan

2. The Black Swan

100%
(26)
58km from Darlington · 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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£136
 / night
Copy House Hideaway

3. Copy House Hideaway

100%
(67)
80km from Darlington · 2 units
Luxury shepherd's huts with wood-fired hot tubs and an adjoining log cabin for extra space
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£146
 / night
Roe Deer Meadow

4. Roe Deer Meadow

98%
(57)
82km from Darlington · 12 units
A small and super-friendly rural campsite close to Yorkshire’s east coast
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£104
 / night
Humble Bee Farm

5. Humble Bee Farm

100%
(15)
83km from Darlington · 23 units
Camping or ‘wigwaming’ on a pretty and very child-friendly farm among the Yorkshire Wolds
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£110
 / night
The Damson Shepherd's Hut

6. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%
(60)
88km from Darlington · 1 unit
A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£110
 / night
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

7. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%
(13)
90km from Darlington · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£210
 / night
Ewe Love Camping Pods

8. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(108)
93km from Darlington · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£90
 / night
Woodman's Huts

9. Woodman's Huts

99%
(58)
99km from Darlington · 3 units
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£135
 / night
Camping at Cardewlees

10. Camping at Cardewlees

99%
(47)
100km from Darlington · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£16
 / night
Greenoak Hideout

11. Greenoak Hideout

100%
(22)
102km from Darlington · 2 units
A small, yurt glamping site with treasure hunts and alpacas in the Yorkshire countryside
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£125
 / night
Butt Farm, Beverley

12. Butt Farm, Beverley

100%
(189)
107km from Darlington · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A family-friendly campsite on a working East Yorkshire Farm just outside the market town of Beverley
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night
Moss Rose Campsite

13. Moss Rose Campsite

99%
(61)
110km from Darlington · 28 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. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

14. Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

96%
(60)
119km from Darlington · 40 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
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£60
 / night
Secret Wood Glamping

15. Secret Wood Glamping

95%
(21)
139km from Darlington · 10 units · Tents, Glamping
A private woodland and stream all to yourself, with one spacious bell tent and a hot tub beneath the stars
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

16. High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

100%
(1)
19km from Darlington · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
How about a camping break with spectacular Durham Dales views? High Farm Holiday Park might well be the spot for you, a scenic, family- and dog-friendly glamping/ touring site. Restoring and recycling vintage items is a passion of ours and may examples of this can be found throughout the site including our showstopping /repurposed Railway Wagons – each one found around the local area and completely refurbished into cute and cosy mini lodges decked out with stylish wooden interiors. Set in the County Durham countryside on a family-run former dairy farm, the site also features developing woodland and wetlands with loads of amazing wildlife, and mown walkways for you to explore your surroundings. An on-site café, shop and board game library are also all available for your use. Open all year, the site is close to the market town of Bishop Auckland (10 minutes’ drive), with its wide range of shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as the woodland walks and art trails in Hamsterley Forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£30
 / night
Toadlands Shepherd Huts

17. Toadlands Shepherd Huts

100%
(4)
33km from Darlington · 2 units
Welcome to Toadlands Established in 2021 on repurposed farmland, our charming Shepherd’s Huts Roudabout and Bill Lunes offers glamping for two in style. Nestled into the Teesdale countryside, get back to nature in the luxury of a cosy Shepherd’s Hut. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or both, Toadlands is a special place to do it. So, relax in the wood-fired hot tub, stargaze by the firepit, and discover what the local area has to offer. The space We have two Shepherd Huts totally private from each other with separate access .The huts are supplied with Luxury linens, cotton towels and bathrobes. Fully equipped bijou kitchen, induction hob, ceramic sink, microwave, fridge with ice compartment. Generous bathroom with spacious electric shower & heated towel rail. Luxurious Hypnos bed and mattress with plenty of storage. The hut offers a cosy interior with walls finished in dark blue tongue and groove paneling, an oak floor and contrasting white ceiling. Sumptuous Linwood fabrics have been used throughout on the windows and furniture. Double glazed hardwood doors and windows combined with electric thermostatically controlled heating ensure consistent comfort throughout the changing seasons. Outdoors, relax in the wood fired hot tub or sit around the fire pit sipping wine or enjoying mugs of hot chocolate whilst enjoying the wonderful views of the Teesdale countryside. we are a stone throw away from the railway walk that can take you to the neighbouring villages of Romaldkirk, or Middleton- in-Teesdale, or hop in the car and take a short drive to the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle. Guest access Cars can be parked approx 100 metres from the hut, access is from the B6277 along a private grass lane, waterproof footwear is recommended for pedestrian access during wet weather.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£163
 / night
Cliff Stud Retreat - Ski Lodge

18. Cliff Stud Retreat - Ski Lodge

44km from Darlington · 3 units
A 220 acre estate set within the traditional market town of Helmsley in. The North Yorkshire Moores. Two cosy cottages which sleep five people and three luxury lodges that sleep two each, set in a private forest. The cottages are ideal for families and we accept your four legged family members. The lodges are ideal for adult only escapes to the country.
Showers
Wifi
Potable water
from 
£158
 / night
Cherish Glamping

19. Cherish Glamping

100%
(5)
45km from Darlington · 7 units
Yurts with private bathrooms, hot tubs, and breakfast included, set in beautiful Wensleydale
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£245
 / night
Freespirit Glamping

20. Freespirit Glamping

90%
(5)
50km from Darlington · 5 units
We are located at Cliff Stud Retreat, a 220 acre former stud farm, just outside Helmsley on the foot of the North Yorkshire Moors. We are a top-rated luxury glamping site and we can't wait to welcome you! With amazing views and off a very quiet country lane that leads directly into the Moors, you'll be able to arrive, kick off your shoes and start relaxing, enjoying a beer and roasting marshmellows over the BBQ, whilst watching the sun go down. Our ethos is all about family, fun and living simply among nature. Our off-grid glamping site has just five, well spaced, luxury bell tents, each with their own allocated private compost toilet and shower. your own garden area with firepit, BBQ and seating area.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£115
 / night

Surrounded by protected landscapes and boasting a pretty town centre plus plenty of natural reserves of its own, Darlington is a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in northern England. Whether you’re after quiet countryside camping or active adventure in one of England’s most iconic landscapes, you have options, with the Pennine Chain, North York Moors, and Northumberland National Park all within easy reach of the city. The region’s holiday parks are great for kicking back with the kids, while frill-free field camps and luxury glampsites let you soak up the great outdoors in your own way. Stargazers should keep an eye out for the many Dark Sky Sites scattered throughout the region.

99% (90) 138 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Darlington

Hill Top Huts

1. Hill Top Huts

97%
(121)
31km from Darlington · 12 units
Scenic, simple glamping pods set beside a welcoming Pennines pub
Pets
Showers
Wifi
from 
£70
 / night
The Black Swan

2. The Black Swan

100%
(26)
58km from Darlington · 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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£136
 / night
Copy House Hideaway

3. Copy House Hideaway

100%
(67)
80km from Darlington · 2 units
Luxury shepherd's huts with wood-fired hot tubs and an adjoining log cabin for extra space
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£146
 / night
Roe Deer Meadow

4. Roe Deer Meadow

98%
(57)
82km from Darlington · 12 units
A small and super-friendly rural campsite close to Yorkshire’s east coast
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£104
 / night
Humble Bee Farm

5. Humble Bee Farm

100%
(15)
83km from Darlington · 23 units
Camping or ‘wigwaming’ on a pretty and very child-friendly farm among the Yorkshire Wolds
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£110
 / night
The Damson Shepherd's Hut

6. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%
(60)
88km from Darlington · 1 unit
A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£110
 / night
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

7. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%
(13)
90km from Darlington · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£210
 / night
Ewe Love Camping Pods

8. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(108)
93km from Darlington · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£90
 / night
Woodman's Huts

9. Woodman's Huts

99%
(58)
99km from Darlington · 3 units
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£135
 / night
Camping at Cardewlees

10. Camping at Cardewlees

99%
(47)
100km from Darlington · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£16
 / night
Greenoak Hideout

11. Greenoak Hideout

100%
(22)
102km from Darlington · 2 units
A small, yurt glamping site with treasure hunts and alpacas in the Yorkshire countryside
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£125
 / night
Butt Farm, Beverley

12. Butt Farm, Beverley

100%
(189)
107km from Darlington · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
A family-friendly campsite on a working East Yorkshire Farm just outside the market town of Beverley
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night
Moss Rose Campsite

13. Moss Rose Campsite

99%
(61)
110km from Darlington · 28 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. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

14. Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

96%
(60)
119km from Darlington · 40 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
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£60
 / night
Secret Wood Glamping

15. Secret Wood Glamping

95%
(21)
139km from Darlington · 10 units · Tents, Glamping
A private woodland and stream all to yourself, with one spacious bell tent and a hot tub beneath the stars
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night
High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

16. High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

100%
(1)
19km from Darlington · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
How about a camping break with spectacular Durham Dales views? High Farm Holiday Park might well be the spot for you, a scenic, family- and dog-friendly glamping/ touring site. Restoring and recycling vintage items is a passion of ours and may examples of this can be found throughout the site including our showstopping /repurposed Railway Wagons – each one found around the local area and completely refurbished into cute and cosy mini lodges decked out with stylish wooden interiors. Set in the County Durham countryside on a family-run former dairy farm, the site also features developing woodland and wetlands with loads of amazing wildlife, and mown walkways for you to explore your surroundings. An on-site café, shop and board game library are also all available for your use. Open all year, the site is close to the market town of Bishop Auckland (10 minutes’ drive), with its wide range of shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as the woodland walks and art trails in Hamsterley Forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£30
 / night
Toadlands Shepherd Huts

17. Toadlands Shepherd Huts

100%
(4)
33km from Darlington · 2 units
Welcome to Toadlands Established in 2021 on repurposed farmland, our charming Shepherd’s Huts Roudabout and Bill Lunes offers glamping for two in style. Nestled into the Teesdale countryside, get back to nature in the luxury of a cosy Shepherd’s Hut. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or both, Toadlands is a special place to do it. So, relax in the wood-fired hot tub, stargaze by the firepit, and discover what the local area has to offer. The space We have two Shepherd Huts totally private from each other with separate access .The huts are supplied with Luxury linens, cotton towels and bathrobes. Fully equipped bijou kitchen, induction hob, ceramic sink, microwave, fridge with ice compartment. Generous bathroom with spacious electric shower & heated towel rail. Luxurious Hypnos bed and mattress with plenty of storage. The hut offers a cosy interior with walls finished in dark blue tongue and groove paneling, an oak floor and contrasting white ceiling. Sumptuous Linwood fabrics have been used throughout on the windows and furniture. Double glazed hardwood doors and windows combined with electric thermostatically controlled heating ensure consistent comfort throughout the changing seasons. Outdoors, relax in the wood fired hot tub or sit around the fire pit sipping wine or enjoying mugs of hot chocolate whilst enjoying the wonderful views of the Teesdale countryside. we are a stone throw away from the railway walk that can take you to the neighbouring villages of Romaldkirk, or Middleton- in-Teesdale, or hop in the car and take a short drive to the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle. Guest access Cars can be parked approx 100 metres from the hut, access is from the B6277 along a private grass lane, waterproof footwear is recommended for pedestrian access during wet weather.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£163
 / night
Cliff Stud Retreat - Ski Lodge

18. Cliff Stud Retreat - Ski Lodge

44km from Darlington · 3 units
A 220 acre estate set within the traditional market town of Helmsley in. The North Yorkshire Moores. Two cosy cottages which sleep five people and three luxury lodges that sleep two each, set in a private forest. The cottages are ideal for families and we accept your four legged family members. The lodges are ideal for adult only escapes to the country.
Showers
Wifi
Potable water
from 
£158
 / night
Cherish Glamping

19. Cherish Glamping

100%
(5)
45km from Darlington · 7 units
Yurts with private bathrooms, hot tubs, and breakfast included, set in beautiful Wensleydale
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£245
 / night
Freespirit Glamping

20. Freespirit Glamping

90%
(5)
50km from Darlington · 5 units
We are located at Cliff Stud Retreat, a 220 acre former stud farm, just outside Helmsley on the foot of the North Yorkshire Moors. We are a top-rated luxury glamping site and we can't wait to welcome you! With amazing views and off a very quiet country lane that leads directly into the Moors, you'll be able to arrive, kick off your shoes and start relaxing, enjoying a beer and roasting marshmellows over the BBQ, whilst watching the sun go down. Our ethos is all about family, fun and living simply among nature. Our off-grid glamping site has just five, well spaced, luxury bell tents, each with their own allocated private compost toilet and shower. your own garden area with firepit, BBQ and seating area.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£115
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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

Farm glamping 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.