- Darlington
Mountain campsites near Darlington
100% (35) • 99 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Darlington
Chapel View Wild Campsite
1. Chapel View Wild Campsite
97%
(31)
133km from Darlington · 3 units · Tents
A remote campsite for Hikers and Wild Campers
Sittng on the Penine Bridleway on the foothills of Kinder above Chapel-en-le-Frith, offering beautiful views across the valley and being within immediate reach of some of the most popular walking trails in the UK.
The campsite is in shadow of South Head and is directly on the Penine Bridleway less than 2 miles from Jacobs Ladder, the Penine Way and Kinder Low.
You can break camp in the morning already in the heart of hiking country and return to your camp in the evening without ever leaving the remote wilderness of the national park.
Pets
Campfires
from
£5
/ night
Moss Side Farm Campsite
2. Moss Side Farm Campsite
94%
(131)
109km from Darlington · 33 units · Tents
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite
3. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite
96%
(149)
115km from Darlington · 47 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
from
£25
/ night
Broom Fisheries Campsite
4. Broom Fisheries Campsite
123km from Darlington · 4 units · Glamping
Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes
Pets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
£167
/ night
Ewe Love Camping Pods
5. Ewe Love Camping Pods
98%
(108)
93km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from
£90
/ night
Camping at Cardewlees
6. 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
Woodman's Huts
7. Woodman's Huts
99%
(58)
99km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£115
/ night
The Black Swan
8. The Black Swan
100%
(26)
58km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
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
Primrose Cottage Camping
9. Primrose Cottage Camping
100%
(8)
118km from Darlington · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£25
/ night
Copy House Hideaway
10. Copy House Hideaway
100%
(67)
80km from Darlington · 2 units · Glamping
Luxury shepherd's huts with wood-fired hot tubs and an adjoining log cabin for extra space
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£146
/ night
Fairy Bell Wood
11. Fairy Bell Wood
100%
(10)
73km from Darlington · 1 unit · Glamping
An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£119
/ night
Coxons Farm Luxury Glamping Pods
12. Coxons Farm Luxury Glamping Pods
100%
(7)
63km from Darlington · 2 units · Glamping
Luxury pod glamping in the Yorkshire Dales, set on a working farm with a pub across the road
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£117
/ night
Lake District Herdwick Huts
13. Lake District Herdwick Huts
100%
(1)
93km from Darlington · 5 units · Glamping
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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£110
/ night
Damson View Glamping
14. Damson View Glamping
100%
(55)
88km from Darlington · 5 units · Glamping
Self-contained glamping pods in the Lake District's beautiful Lyth Valley
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£119
/ night
Quarry Hill Campsite
15. Quarry Hill Campsite
100%
(2)
84km from Darlington · 25 units · Tents
Quarry Hill Campsite is set on nine acres of open grassland and hillside, and with many more acres on hand for you to explore.
Games Marquee
Undercover Picnic Benches
Off Grid Camping
Showers
Pot Wash Up Area
Toilets in wooden amenities (there are emergency sockets in there for charging devices),
Snack bar (typically open Saturday and Sunday between 8am and 2pm subject to change and weather conditions) and alfresco bench seating (both weather dependent)
Perfect for Families and Couples seeking a relaxing break away!
Spectacular views of the North Yorkshire coastline.
Cyclists Welcome!
Barbecues / Fire Pits are allowed as long as the weather conditions are not too windy or dry. These must be off the ground (Flags can be provided)
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts
16. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts
100%
(13)
90km from Darlington · 2 units · Glamping
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£210
/ night
Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping
17. Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping
100%
(2)
95km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Carrock glamping pods is a brand new, luxury Glamping Pod for couples. It is located on a traditional working farm nestled at the foot of Carrock Fell, with stunning views and direct access to the Northern fells of the Lake District. No driving is required to get to the start of your walks, thus reducing your carbon footprint. Only leaving footprints in the ground.
Showers
Hot Tub
Potable water
from
£165
/ night
100% (35) • 99 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Darlington
Chapel View Wild Campsite
1. Chapel View Wild Campsite
97%
(31)
133km from Darlington · 3 units · Tents
A remote campsite for Hikers and Wild Campers
Sittng on the Penine Bridleway on the foothills of Kinder above Chapel-en-le-Frith, offering beautiful views across the valley and being within immediate reach of some of the most popular walking trails in the UK.
The campsite is in shadow of South Head and is directly on the Penine Bridleway less than 2 miles from Jacobs Ladder, the Penine Way and Kinder Low.
You can break camp in the morning already in the heart of hiking country and return to your camp in the evening without ever leaving the remote wilderness of the national park.
Pets
Campfires
from
£5
/ night
Moss Side Farm Campsite
2. Moss Side Farm Campsite
94%
(131)
109km from Darlington · 33 units · Tents
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite
3. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite
96%
(149)
115km from Darlington · 47 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
from
£25
/ night
Broom Fisheries Campsite
4. Broom Fisheries Campsite
123km from Darlington · 4 units · Glamping
Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes
Pets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
£167
/ night
Ewe Love Camping Pods
5. Ewe Love Camping Pods
98%
(108)
93km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from
£90
/ night
Camping at Cardewlees
6. 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
Woodman's Huts
7. Woodman's Huts
99%
(58)
99km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£115
/ night
The Black Swan
8. The Black Swan
100%
(26)
58km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
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
Primrose Cottage Camping
9. Primrose Cottage Camping
100%
(8)
118km from Darlington · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
£25
/ night
Copy House Hideaway
10. Copy House Hideaway
100%
(67)
80km from Darlington · 2 units · Glamping
Luxury shepherd's huts with wood-fired hot tubs and an adjoining log cabin for extra space
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£146
/ night
Fairy Bell Wood
11. Fairy Bell Wood
100%
(10)
73km from Darlington · 1 unit · Glamping
An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from
£119
/ night
Coxons Farm Luxury Glamping Pods
12. Coxons Farm Luxury Glamping Pods
100%
(7)
63km from Darlington · 2 units · Glamping
Luxury pod glamping in the Yorkshire Dales, set on a working farm with a pub across the road
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£117
/ night
Lake District Herdwick Huts
13. Lake District Herdwick Huts
100%
(1)
93km from Darlington · 5 units · Glamping
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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£110
/ night
Damson View Glamping
14. Damson View Glamping
100%
(55)
88km from Darlington · 5 units · Glamping
Self-contained glamping pods in the Lake District's beautiful Lyth Valley
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£119
/ night
Quarry Hill Campsite
15. Quarry Hill Campsite
100%
(2)
84km from Darlington · 25 units · Tents
Quarry Hill Campsite is set on nine acres of open grassland and hillside, and with many more acres on hand for you to explore.
Games Marquee
Undercover Picnic Benches
Off Grid Camping
Showers
Pot Wash Up Area
Toilets in wooden amenities (there are emergency sockets in there for charging devices),
Snack bar (typically open Saturday and Sunday between 8am and 2pm subject to change and weather conditions) and alfresco bench seating (both weather dependent)
Perfect for Families and Couples seeking a relaxing break away!
Spectacular views of the North Yorkshire coastline.
Cyclists Welcome!
Barbecues / Fire Pits are allowed as long as the weather conditions are not too windy or dry. These must be off the ground (Flags can be provided)
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£25
/ night
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts
16. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts
100%
(13)
90km from Darlington · 2 units · Glamping
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£210
/ night
Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping
17. Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping
100%
(2)
95km from Darlington · 3 units · Glamping
Carrock glamping pods is a brand new, luxury Glamping Pod for couples. It is located on a traditional working farm nestled at the foot of Carrock Fell, with stunning views and direct access to the Northern fells of the Lake District. No driving is required to get to the start of your walks, thus reducing your carbon footprint. Only leaving footprints in the ground.
Showers
Hot Tub
Potable water
from
£165
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
V
Virginia
October 2025
With pets
Lovely location, beautiful views. Comfortable pod and great with enclosed garden for the dog. Good facilities too.
See more
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!
See more
E
Elma
August 2025
With kids
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!
See more
A
Ally
August 2025
Tent
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
See moreE
Eleanor
August 2025
Tent
A simple but friendly camping experience. A very attentive host!
See more
M
Mark
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
Stayed for a couple of nights and had a great time, good facilities and one of the few campsites open to letting people enjoy a sensible camp fire.
Staff were all friendly and helpful too
See moreL
Lisa
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood
This is a truly beautiful space. We've stayed in lots of yurts and this is the nicest by far. It's fab to have somewhere to sit inside if you need. But lovely spots outside too. The kitchen area is really useful and has everything you'd need. We followed the instructions for the shower and it worked perfectly. I loved the full length window to lay in bed and watch the sunset. Best of all if you're as anti social as me..... It's totally on it own! We re already planning our next visit.
See more
C
Carwell
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Great location, peaceful campsite away from the crowds and many a walk to be had.
See more
L
Louise
August 2025
With kids
Absolutely everything about the site was immaculate and so carefully thought out. Beautiful yurts, beautiful surroundings and the most amazing glamping trip.
See more
S
Suzanne
August 2025
Tent
Lovely campsite with nice clean toilets! Would definitely recommend.
See more
J
Jennifer
August 2025
5 m Class B
Really nice campsite with good facilities. It was quite busy but it wasn't too noisy. Staff were friendly. I was on a hardstanding pitch and my only gripe was, the grass that we had allocated for the pitch wasn't really quite wide enough to secure my awning as well as I would have liked. The awning just about fit on.
We had some sandwiches made by the guy in the cafe to take on our walk which were good. Lacking veggie options though.
See more
Natalie
August 2025
Tent
With pets
I can not recommend Baystone enough. THE VIEWS ARE AMAZING! I was not expecting them from the pictures shown by stunning the wash facilties are clean and maintained access to onsite fridge and freezer. Good pitch sizes with fire pit.
I will be back as soon as possible. Camp warden was lovely super friendly. I explained my dog prefers space and she was more willing to accommodate.
The on lead rule is followed by all guests which was a reason I picked the sight. There is alot of live stock so your dog does need to be okay with horses and sheep around.
Noise levels were quiet by 10pm every night. Cafe on site was lovely and have a small shop with some goodies avaliable (tecos 8 min drive away) beautiful beaches, peaks near by. I loved it
See more
L
Leann
August 2025
Tent
With kids
A well-kept campground with responsive and friendly staff.
No frills but well-kept shower block with small communal fridge and washing up sinks. Kids will love seeing animals on the farm, too.
See moreM
Megan
August 2025
Tent
With pets
The campsite had lovely views and the facilities were very accessible.
See moreE
Ellen
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Really lovely place! Very peaceful vibe and the babbling brook was a calming companion. Enjoyed the fires and the hot showers too 💚
See more
E
Erin
July 2025
Tent
Fantastic site, it's quiet, there are a variety of animals milling around, and the host is friendly and approachable.
See moreA
Andy
July 2025
Tent
Great stay at primrose cottage camp site, We will definitely be back.
See more
G
George
July 2025
4 m Class B
One of the best campsites we've been to! Was our first time using a campervan and it was perfect here - everything dead easy. Lovely clean showers and toilets, amazing views, beautiful stream running through it, chilled vibes and top staff - big shout to Emma & Danny who were great hosts :)
See more
S
Saskia
July 2025
3 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods
We had a wonderful little getaway here, exactly what we needed nice and quiet and surrounded by nature, the pod was clean and cosy and provided everything you need for a stay. The bbq was really nice and worked well. Can was really wonderful and helpful especially with a little mishap we had. 10/10 I would recommend going here and we will definitely be back!
See more
Nicholas
July 2025
4 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods
Another brilliant stay. Can't fault it. Will be returning.
See more
Mountain campsites 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.