Barns in North Pennines AONB with wildlife watching
Discover heathlands, cascades, and rock formations in the northern reaches of the Pennines.
- North Pennines AONB
Popular camping styles for North Pennines AONB
Barns in North Pennines AONB with wildlife watching guide
Overview
Not only a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the North Pennines are also an UNESCO-listed Global Geopark, making this vast region of moorland, meadow, woods, and waterways a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast. Home to one of England’s largest waterfalls, High Force, plus an array of native fauna, including black grouse, red squirrels, and short-eared owls, there’s plenty here for hikers, bikers, and wildlife watchers—especially during the bird breeding season of March to August. From wild-style sleeping beneath the stars to convenient caravan parks, here are our top camping spots for the region.
Where to go
Consett and the Derwent Reservoir
On the eastern edge of the North Pennines, this rural region is a convenient launch point for wider Pennine exploration, with spacious, frill-free campgrounds and family-friendly holiday parks aplenty. Watersports enthusiasts can find plenty to do on the enormous reservoir, while Derwent Gorge and Muggleswick Grange are popular stops on the region’s rambling and riding trails.
Carlisle
Just beyond the western border of the North Pennines, the county town of Carlisle is an important railway hub, offering direct connection to London, Edinburgh, and beyond. The surrounding countryside is home to caravan parks, glamp sites, and working farms aplenty, ensuring easy access to the city, as well as AONB attractions such as the RSPB Geltsdale Nature Reserve and Cold Fell Mountain.
Haltwhistle
Nestled between the North Pennines and Northumberland National Park, and within a stone’s throw of Hadrian’s Wall, this rural parish is an ideal camping location for any outdoor enthusiast. A walking festival takes place bi-annually, ensuring an intimate glimpse of the historic region. Caravan parks, no-frills farmland, and exclusive glampsites provide plenty of accommodation options.
Barnard Castle and the Tees Valley
Overlooking the River Tees, this castle town just outside the Pennines is a popular destination for canoeists and anglers, as well as history lovers. From here, riverside rambles and waterside bike rides can take adventurers deep into the heart of the AONB via its intense waterfalls, while touring parks and farm sites provide plenty of overnight options. The area is also home to several adults-only sites.
