Campsites with campfires near Borrowdale

Borrowdale is a valley in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, running between Derwent Water and Honister Pass, beneath Scafell Pike, England’s tallest mountain. The landscape here is typical of the region: craggy peaks, wooded valleys, clear rivers, and the remnants of industry. There are plenty of campsites across the Lake District, whether you’re looking for a place to pitch a tent or park a campervan, or fancy giving glamping a try. This valley specifically offers a few places to camp, especially in the village of Keswick at the northern end of Derwent Water. Elsewhere campers should expect mostly simple sites with limited facilities but fantastic views. 

Borrowdale sits within the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO-listed park that’s home to deep glacial lakes and tall mountains—in fact, the deepest and highest, respectively, in England. Look for camping in the Borrowdale Valley and throughout the Lake District, where campers can choose between simple campsites, well-equipped holiday parks, log cabins, and cosy cottages. Hikers on long-distance walks should plan their routes carefully to camp at permitted sites, as wild camping isn’t generally allowed in the park.

The Lake District is a year-round destination, but summer is the best time for camping. This is when the weather is warmest and driest, with very long days at this northern latitude. If visiting Borrowdale outside of summer, opt for a cabin or cottage rather than tent camping for peak comfort.