Bell tent camping near Doncaster, South Yorkshire

Nestled in North East England, Doncaster was technically ceded to Scotland thousands of years ago—and never officially returned to England. Besides its captivating history, Doncaster's other claim to fame is the Doncaster Cup—one of the oldest continuing horse races. Nature abounds near Doncasters, as well, for campers who want to get up close and personal with local plants and wildlife. View lions in Yorkshire Wildlife Park, explore caves at Peak District National Park, and watch starlings dip and dive in Potteric Carr Nature Reserve—all under an hour drive from Doncaster. Camping accommodations range from cosy bell tents, holiday parks with full hookups, and dog-friendly wooden pod cabins near each attraction—allowing a comfortable stay for any type of camper.

98% (72)

Top-rated campgrounds

Nestled in North East England, Doncaster was technically ceded to Scotland thousands of years ago—and never officially returned to England. Besides its captivating history, Doncaster's other claim to fame is the Doncaster Cup—one of the oldest continuing horse races. Nature abounds near Doncasters, as well, for campers who want to get up close and personal with local plants and wildlife. View lions in Yorkshire Wildlife Park, explore caves at Peak District National Park, and watch starlings dip and dive in Potteric Carr Nature Reserve—all under an hour drive from Doncaster. Camping accommodations range from cosy bell tents, holiday parks with full hookups, and dog-friendly wooden pod cabins near each attraction—allowing a comfortable stay for any type of camper.

98% (72)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Secret Wood Glamping

95%

(19)

39km from Doncaster · 10 units · Tents, Glamping · Derbyshire S18 7 Wf, England

A private woodland and stream all to yourself, with one spacious bell tent and a hot tub beneath the stars

2. Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

96%

(60)

123km from Doncaster · 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. Purple Badger Camping&Fishing Lakes

97%

(66)

95km from Doncaster · 12 units · Tents, Glamping · Beeby, England

Glamping and campfire-friendly camping by a pair of fishing lakes in the Leicestershire countryside

4. Aldwark Bridge Glamping

61km from Doncaster · 3 units · Glamping · England

A unique and cosy pop-up glamping site Located on the banks of the River Ure next to a quaint and historical wooden toll bridge, Aldwark Bridge Glamping offers a unique and personal camping experience. Nestled between York and Harrogate, the site boasts a fantastic pit stop on the Coast to Coast cycling route, free landing access to the River Ure to enjoy kayaking and stand up paddle boarding and a beautiful river side walk to the local pub. Matt and Joanna invite you to glamp in style here at our cosy garden site with luxury shower room, extensive outdoor kitchen and welcoming communal fire pit seating area.

5. Cross Farm Retreat

100%

(4)

66km from Doncaster · 4 units · Glamping · England

Cross Farm Retreat, is a glamping site set within lush, wild fields and picturesque gardens across 5 acres, offering beautiful views of the Pennine Hills and the iconic Stoodley Pike. Located 2 miles from Todmorden and just 4 miles from Hebden Bridge, both easily accessible via an idyllic stroll along the nearby Rochdale canal. Our glamping site offers a tranquil escape where you can re- connect with nature and embark on adventures along abundant walking and cycling trails, including the renowned Pennine Way and Gaddings Dam. Cross Farm invites you to Retreat, Restore and Revive.

6. Peak Glamping Hideaway

100%

(12)

64km from Doncaster · 3 units · Glamping · Staffordshire, West Midlands

Glamping literally reaches new heights in the Peak District National Park

7. Rural Relaxing

93%

(14)

111km from Doncaster · 22 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Market Harborough, Leicestershire, East Midlands

Family-friendly camping and glamping on the edge of Medbourne – a charming Leicestershire village with a pub, tea rooms and post office

8. Big Sky Hideaway Camping Farm

100%

(30)

86km from Doncaster · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lincolnshire, East Midlands

Camping and glamping in the Lincolnshire Fenland with campfires, alpacas and a positive vibe

9. Cuckoo Farm Campsite

99%

(202)

107km from Doncaster · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Rutland, East Midlands

Family camping with campfires on an organic farm, set alongside the beautiful River Chater

10. Moss Rose Campsite

99%

(61)

122km from Doncaster · 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. The Hide At Manton Bay

100%

(3)

102km from Doncaster · 18 units · Tents, Glamping · England

A unique hideaway surrounded by trees, apple orchards and vineyard. Sit out on your own private deck and enjoy truly magnificent views over Rutland Water. Spend your evenings star gazing, grilling on the BBQ or visiting one of our fabulous local pubs. Each of our Lotus Belle tents has it’s own private garden with fire-pit, hammock and swing chair. Serene festoon lighting creates a magical feel. Spend the colder evenings sipping cocktails in our wood-fired hot tubs when staying in one of our stunning Shepherd Huts.

12. Bain View Glamping

97%

(18)

76km from Doncaster · 4 units · Tents, Glamping · Horncastle, Lincolnshire, East Midlands

A canal-side shepherd's hut near the Lincolnshire Wolds, with an outdoor bathtub, a mini vineyard, and total privacy.

13. Lincolnshire Lanes

93%

(15)

45km from Doncaster · 31 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Market Rasen, England

Old-fashioned family fun on a child-friendly campsite in rural Lincolnshire

14. Springfield Farm Campsite

100%

(1)

117km from Doncaster · 28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Gedney Hill, England

A family-friendly site with farm animals in the Lincolnshire Fens

15. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%

(29)

126km from Doncaster · 108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · King's Lynn, England

🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.

16. Hob Hey Hideaways

100%

(3)

56km from Doncaster · 9 units · Glamping · Halifax, England

A relaxing West Yorkshire getaway with bell tents on sprawling moorland

17. Country bumpkins

100%

(9)

63km from Doncaster · 6 units · Glamping · Lincoln, Lincolnshire, East Midlands

Glamping with a hot tub and an outdoor cinema in the Lincolnshire countryside

18. Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%

(3)

98km from Doncaster · 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.

19. Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

100%

(32)

112km from Doncaster · 8 units · Glamping · Cheshire, North West England

Lakeside glamping on the edge of Delemere Forest and a 10-minute train ride from Chester

20. Bell Tent Village Parks

100%

(11)

64km from Doncaster · 12 units · Glamping · Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, East Midlands

Glamping on an established campsite next door to the National Watersports Centre in Nottingham

Camper favorites near Doncaster

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lincolnshire Lanes

93%

(15)

45km from Doncaster · 31 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Market Rasen, England

Old-fashioned family fun on a child-friendly campsite in rural Lincolnshire

Springfield Farm Campsite

100%

(1)

117km from Doncaster · 28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Gedney Hill, England

A family-friendly site with farm animals in the Lincolnshire Fens

Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%

(29)

126km from Doncaster · 108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · King's Lynn, England

🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.

Hob Hey Hideaways

100%

(3)

56km from Doncaster · 9 units · Glamping · Halifax, England

A relaxing West Yorkshire getaway with bell tents on sprawling moorland

Country bumpkins

100%

(9)

63km from Doncaster · 6 units · Glamping · Lincoln, Lincolnshire, East Midlands

Glamping with a hot tub and an outdoor cinema in the Lincolnshire countryside

Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%

(3)

98km from Doncaster · 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.

Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

100%

(32)

112km from Doncaster · 8 units · Glamping · Cheshire, North West England

Lakeside glamping on the edge of Delemere Forest and a 10-minute train ride from Chester

Bell Tent Village Parks

100%

(11)

64km from Doncaster · 12 units · Glamping · Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, East Midlands

Glamping on an established campsite next door to the National Watersports Centre in Nottingham

Stories from the community

A

Anna

August 2025

2 nights at Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

Amazing scenery and lovely owners! The tipis were big and spacious and decorated beautifully with fairy lights. The atmosphere and experience was perfect!

K

Kathryn

August 2025

2 nights at Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Had an incredible few days at lloyds meadow, my husband did some fishing while I relaxed and crocheted, the campsite was clean and quiet, we even caught the meteor shower on Tuesday evening along with the northern lights. Sarah was an incredible host, always checking we had everything we needed, and very friendly.

b

birnambeekeeper

July 2025

With kids

1 night at Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

Friendly welcome and the bell tent was really nice. Good to be able to have a fire too. We did a little fishing on the stock pond and caught a few.

C

Claire

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

Friendly host and staff, bell tents lovely. Area well kept all the group had a great time.

D

Declan

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Lloyds meadow what a beautiful place! As soon as we got here Sarah made us feel very welcomed showing us around and explaining everything that we needed, the bell tents were so clean and cozy. I can now see why the bed is award winning as I had the best sleep ever it was so comfortable! Little touches as ringing the bell for any help and bringing us fire wood whenever we needed it made us feel at home and welcomed. Lloyds meadow is the perfect get away and I would definitely highly recommend to anyone, it’s close to Chester town and has lovely bars and cafes nearby! Cannot fault in any way! Thankyou for having us, will definitely be coming back again! P.S we also made friends with the neighbours they were very welcoming also!!! ( the ducks & goats) xxx Beth and Dec

J

Jane

June 2025

2 nights at Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

The comfiest bed in this beautiful secluded site. The hostess Sarah takes the extra step to make sure your holiday runs smoothly. Ideal for couples or the solo traveller seeking a bit of luxury

F

Farida

May 2025

With kids

2 nights at Country bumpkins

We enjoyed our stay at Laura's glampsite even though the weather was wet and windy. The hot tub was a treat as was the 'cinema under the stars'! Laura was very friendly and helpful which made our stay comfortable. Nice quiet site, good facilities and thoroughly enjoyed by me and my two children! Thank you!!

J

Jonny

May 2025

With kids

1 night at Cross Farm Retreat

We had a wonderful stay in the bell tent. The bed was comfy and the tent is very warm and inviting. Kirsty is very kind and considerate and we had everything we needed to give my daughter her first introduction to camping.

T

Tessa

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Secret Wood Glamping

Beautiful secluded woodland site with great facilities. We all loved the hot tub.

The famous goats! Be sure to take them for a walk.

J

Joseph

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Cannot fault our stay with Lloyds Meadow. 1st time we have glamped after years of camping and I don’t think I could go back to normal camping after such a wonderful experience here. Sarah was the best host we’ve ever had. Attentive, knowledgeable and nothing was too much to ask to ensure our stay was the best. We added the fire pit package and breakfast hamper which did not disappoint. Sitting out by the fire into the night, secluded and surrounded by nature & all of the wonderful sounds made for an unforgettable and addicting experience. (We will be back 100%)! We had a fishing peg on the stunning small lake just outside the tent entrance which also didn’t disappoint. Packed with Roach, Bream and some specimen Carp. All really good fun on light tackle. Let’s not forget the goats, who you can let out of the pen if you wish and they follow you around! What a great additional experience. There is also a pub which serves excellent food within a very short walking distance. The showers and toilets onsite were very clean & the best I’ve found on any site. Hats off to Sarah and Dan, who have created the perfect combination of real connection to nature, combined with the luxuries camping lacks sometimes. The beds in the tents are extremely comfy too. Thank you both & see you again soon. Emily and Joe.

J

Joe

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Would highly recommend staying here. The site was perfect, and Sarah couldn’t have been friendlier or more helpful. Bbq, stove cooking breakfast, taking goats for a stroll, exploring the local walking routes, and setting up a wood fire at night - everything you could need.

Clarice

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Absolutely wonderful experience! Gorgeous glampsite, great cooking facilities. Wonderful views and walks! Sarah is a really lovely host, I would highly recommend this beautiful spot to anyone thinking of booking, we'd love to come back!

A

Aaron

April 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

The whole stay was fantastic. Staff were fantastic. Not far from things to do. Nice and chilled.

Dog-friendly getaways

Freespirit Glamping

90%

(5)

75km from Doncaster · 5 units · Glamping · Pickering, England

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.

Broadleaves Glamping

100%

(2)

83km from Doncaster · 3 units · Glamping · England

Rupert and Kerry welcome you to our Derbyshire family farm nestled in the heart of the National Forest adjacent to Foremark Water. Our countryside location offers far reaching views and is surrounded by our own, and Foremark Water’s woodlands offering many miles of enriching walks, rides or runs directly from your own sustainable luxury accommodation. Our beautiful bell tents are appointed with high quality beds and linens and fluffy towels. Our bathrooms are designed to feel like home from home. Three family bathrooms (plus additional toilets) all housed in their own bespoke building service just 6 tents.

Belvoir Holidays

88%

(17)

73km from Doncaster · 13 units · Glamping · Leicestershire, East Midlands

Luxury bell tent glamping in the grounds of Netflix's most famous castle

Coast and Camplight Whitby Glamping

100%

(2)

109km from Doncaster · 1 unit · Glamping · England

Our camps are spread out across our site, each one secluded from the others with nothing to see but the meadows, woods, views and at night the starry skies. The site is truly wild, with ancient woodland to one side with a beck running through it, and fields which we are rewilding full of wildflowers, bees and butterflies. The wildlife runs riot, with deer, owls, badgers, bats and all kinds of wild birds regular visitors. To preserve our wilderness and peace no cars are allowed on site; our visitors walk down the fields to their camps, leaving the real world with their cars at the gate (if you have mobility problems please contact us directly). Our camps are completely off-grid making it perfect for those looking for a digital detox and to get away from the stresses and strains of modern life. We try hard to be gentle on this beautiful place we call home, and the site is designed to be low impact on the environment with it’s own spring water, composting toilets and willow banks. All lighting is solar or via rechargeable batteries and eco-friendly washing products are provided. All the camps have a luxurious feeling despite feeling completely cut off from the outside world, with proper beds with comfy mattresses and their own hot showers; luxury bedding and fluffy towels are provided. Each camp has been handbuilt entirely by us from scratch from things that are recycled, found, car booted, made, upcycled, saved or rescued. Some things are on their third or even fourth life on the farm. Look out for the details, expect the unexpected, this is not glamping by numbers. Nothing says glamping to us like a real fire at the end of the day, toasting marshmallows, sharing stories and putting the day to rest. Each camp has a firepit for you to do just this. There is very little mobile reception in many places on the farm and we wholeheartedly recommend you take this as an opportunity to leave your phone with the rest of the modern world behind for your stay and remember what it is to live a little bit wild.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Bell tent camping near Doncaster guide

Where to go

Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Enjoy a safari experience without stepping foot outside of England at family-friendly Yorkshire Wildlife Park, only 15 minutes south of Doncaster. Check out 60 different species of animals, including zebras, tigers, wallabies, and “The Boys”—eight residential polar bears. Book a behind-the-scenes tour or walk through the grounds at your own pace. Stay at a campsite near the entrance offering washrooms, shower facilities, fresh water taps, and pitches for tents and caravans. Or rent a classic bell tent that comes fully furnished with fresh linens.

Peak District National Park

Situated 50 minutes west of Doncaster, Peak District National Park offers dozens of natural caves, making it a popular spot for potholing. Above ground, enjoy 56 kilometres of traffic-free trails for walking and horseback riding, paved roads for cycling, and areas for rock climbing. Although wild camping is not allowed on park-owned land, it is in privately-owned areas with permission. Designated campervan and tent pitches are available within the park in addition to pet-friendly wooden pods equipped with heat, electricity, and covered verandas.

Potteric Carr Nature Reserve

This grassy wetland oasis offers excellent wildlife viewing and nature walking trails. The area stretches over 580 acres and is a haven for migrating birds in spring and autumn. The meadow areas come to life in summer, as well, with insects and butterflies, while dynamic aerial displays from thousands of starlings are viewable in winter. While there are no campgrounds within the reserve, there are private fully-serviced holiday parks, roomy canvas yurts, and rustic tent pitches on wide-open fields available nearby.

When to go

June to late August promises the best weather in Doncaster for outdoor activities like rock climbing and cycling. Summer temperatures range from 20–22°C. Campers can expect cold, wet, and windy weather in winter from November until early March. Birdwatching is available year-round; however campers may want to bring waterproof jackets and warm clothing during the off-season. If horse racing is at the top of the list, plan to visit in September to watch the Doncaster Cup.