The best campsites near Borrowdale, Cumbria with horseback riding

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.

98% (178)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

98% (178)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Woodman's Huts

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(58)

31km from Borrowdale · 3 units · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes

2. Ewe Love Camping Pods

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(108)

15km from Borrowdale · 3 units · Glamping · Penrith, Cumbria, North West England

Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra

3. Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

98%

(61)

105km from Borrowdale · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, North East England

Camping in Nidderdale with excellent facilities, dogs and campfires welcome, and views over Thruscross Reservoir.

4. Hedgehope Retreat | Sleeps 6

127km from Borrowdale · 1 unit · Glamping · Swarland, England

Hedgehope gains its namesake from one of the beautiful mountains within the cheviots, just a short journey away from where this luxury caravan is situated. Nestled within woodland that has stood for hundreds of years, this beautiful caravan offers the chance for a Northumbrian escape. We also pride ourselves in being as environmentally-friendly as possible so offset our carbon as a business! Hedgehope is encapsulated by a small area of woodland, allowing for beautiful scenery to be seen through the patio doors to the front of the caravan and running alongside also. Through the trees to the front of the retreat, views of the Cheviots can be seen, alongside the private golf course which can be used at your leisure throughout your stay at no extra cost, the course is 18 hole, par 72 and can be booked through the park reception. Also included within your stay is free access to the sports court, which can be used for tennis, 5-a-side or any other sports you can think of, a fantastic children’s adventure playground, situated next to the park’s reception and picnic tables, and of course the beautiful woods that surrounds Percy Wood holiday park. There is also a launderette on site, allowing for washing to be done easily one your longer stays. This retreat is situated on the edge of the idyllic village of Swarland, which boasts a well-kept sports centre with multiple facilities, a large children’s playground and many walks to chose from, as well as being in an excellent location with the A1 being only a 5-minute drive away, providing easy access to other parts of Northumberland. Within your stay, we will provide advice and guidance for the best places to visit whilst in this stunning part of the UK, but if you’re wondering what there is to do in Northumberland whilst booking your stay, let us boast about our amazing county. Alnwick is a 15-minute journey up the A1 from your stay, which is the traditional county town of Northumberland, it includes the incredible Alnwick castle and gardens; which you may recognise from movies such as Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, one of Europe’s largest second-hand book stores set in a Victorian train station and Alnwick playhouse; an arts centre, theatre and cinema. If you prefer the beach to towns, Northumberland is host to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, from Alnmouth to Amble, there is a variety of beaches to chose from that you can spend all day at. For more inland activities, you have the entirety of the county to chose from for countryside activities. The observatory in our national park, Cragside in Rothbury; which hosts some of the first ever hydraulic powered machinery, Ingram valley; for picnics in the south cheviots, you will never be bored on your trip to Northumberland.

5. Cleghorn Farm

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(10)

137km from Borrowdale · 15 units · Tents, Glamping · Lanark, Scotland

*PLEASE NOTE THE CABIN IS AVAILABLE FOR MIDWEEK AND WEEKEND BOOKINGS. CAMPING WILL RETURN IN SPRING 2026.* Cleghorn Farm is a mixed farm just north east of the market town of Lanark. Comprised of 250 acres of fields and woodland and bounded to the south by Mouse Water, it is a beautiful spot to get away from it all without having to leave it all behind if you don't want to. The fields are grazed and cultivated but the woodlands are much as they were at the end of the last ice age with spectacular walks along Cleghorn Glen with the chance to see badgers, bats, deer and all manner of birds among the towering pine and beech trees. The Mouse Water (pronounced moose) tumbles down along the edge of the farm and has some glorious pools for swimming, shallows for paddling and some spectacular water falls before it joins the River Clyde.

6. Harebeck Holidays

84%

(22)

22km from Borrowdale · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Wasdale, England

Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house), you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.

7. RHC & Glamping

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(7)

106km from Borrowdale · 6 units · Glamping · Lancashire, North West England

Hi Hipcampers, We are a 15 acre site of hillsides and woodlands, with woodland paths a few beautiful ponds and a small river! We have fabulous views to of the hills to be enjoyed. Theres lots of wildlife here from deer to Canadian geese. We have some stone fire pits for our guests to use foc! We have a games room and lots of children swings and activities.

8. Logfire Holidays

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(2)

144km from Borrowdale · 3 units · Glamping · Afonwen, Mold, Wales

Emily Rose and Finch are set in our field garden, surrounded by farm land, high in the Clwydian range. Our hilltop setting affords far-reaching valley views and access to fabulous walks along Offa's Dyke from the doorstep. This is a perfect spot for nature lovers, star gazers and those wanting peace. The North Wales countryside and coastlines are waiting to be explored - think castles and beaches. Snowdonia and Liverpool can be reached in under an hour so why not add city sights and adrenaline fuelled mountain adventures to your holiday activity list, then return to laze in a hammock, picnic under the apple trees, and enjoy evenings around the fire-pit.

9. Otter Moss Accommodation

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(8)

47km from Borrowdale · 4 units · Glamping · Brampton, England

Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.

10. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

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(60)

26km from Borrowdale · 1 unit · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere

11. The Black Swan

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(26)

47km from Borrowdale · 3 units · Glamping · Kirkby Stephen, England

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.

12. Hazel Mount Fellside

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(49)

28km from Borrowdale · 5 units · Tents · Eskdale, Cumbria, North West England

Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary

13. Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

100%

(32)

146km from Borrowdale · 8 units · Glamping · Cheshire, North West England

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

14. Crowdy Hall

100%

(2)

110km from Borrowdale · 1 unit · Glamping · Stockton On Tees, England

Crowdy Hall is an off-grid retreat featuring several bespoke-built, timber-framed eco-cabins. Set in 200 acres of picturesque farmland, guests are encouraged to unplug, unwind and relax, enjoying a break away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Expect wood burning stoves for heat, fire pits on the decking and solar panels for power.

15. Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

145km from Borrowdale · 1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.

Camper favorites near Borrowdale

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

26km from Borrowdale · 1 unit · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere

The Black Swan

100%

(26)

47km from Borrowdale · 3 units · Glamping · Kirkby Stephen, England

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.

Hazel Mount Fellside

98%

(49)

28km from Borrowdale · 5 units · Tents · Eskdale, Cumbria, North West England

Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary

Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

100%

(32)

146km from Borrowdale · 8 units · Glamping · Cheshire, North West England

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

Crowdy Hall

100%

(2)

110km from Borrowdale · 1 unit · Glamping · Stockton On Tees, England

Crowdy Hall is an off-grid retreat featuring several bespoke-built, timber-framed eco-cabins. Set in 200 acres of picturesque farmland, guests are encouraged to unplug, unwind and relax, enjoying a break away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Expect wood burning stoves for heat, fire pits on the decking and solar panels for power.

Ayrshire Airstream

100%

(2)

145km from Borrowdale · 1 unit · Glamping · Irvine, Scotland

A seriously comfortable 1978 Airstream, complete with a hot tub, fire pit and its own bar.

Stories from the community

D

Duco

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We loved camping at Hazel Mount Fellside. The view was stunning and it felt more like a piece of nature with some scattered campsites than the opposite, which you most often find. Ruth was a very nice and welcoming host.

I

Ian

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

Really well laid out site. Quite steep in places with rough ground but fine if you are mobile. Toilet and shower facilities are excellent, as is the wash up area with phone charging facilities and shared fridges. Fantastic base to explore the area, right next to the Thurscross reservoir.

K

Kerry

September 2025

3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut

I absolutely loved it here . It was my own piece of heaven ❤️

P

Paul

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cleghorn Farm

The beautiful cabin is in a lovely quiet private space. There are nice views across to the hills particularly when sat by the firepit. Alex and Lauren made us feel very welcome.

Nova

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We were lucky enough to get the site for ourselves for this trip and it was absolutely magical. the land and its views are so beautiful, it’s the first campsite i’ve been to that felt connected to the land it was on :’) ruth’s passion for the place shone, and all of the animals are so cute and special and it was so peaceful being there

E

Elma

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Black Swan

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!

S

Stryczek

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Loved camping at snowdrop. Easy to park up and the pitch was ready for us on arrival. Very quiet and peaceful. Would highly recommend!

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.

J

Jessica

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Lovely campsite! The pitches are extremely spacious - it felt like we were wild camping. Ruth is extremely welcoming. She’s built something special. Would definitely recommend!

T

Ted

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

Camping was beautiful here lovely walks with dogs very clean showers. Host were great.very friendly. And informative

K

Keerti

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

Ruth was a wonderful, kind and fascinating host. Her land is stunning and with an ecologist background Ruth is determined to ensure and enable that her land thrives with life diversity as nature intended. It’s a really beautiful natural space and well connected to Millom, Lake Conniston, the stone circle and many other beautiful places to visit and for convenience. Thank you Ruth for accommodating us and for all your tips!

F

Fil

August 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

Excellent facilities. Very welcoming, helpful owners. Very quiet site which suited us. Lots of space even for our large bell tent.

N

Nidal

August 2025

Weekend Trip to RHC & Glamping

We stayed in the Cygnet pod, it was clean, warm and well stocked with cups and coffee/tea. We enjoyed the onsite sauna and complimentary alkaline water then had dinner from the cafe. The pizzas were delicious. Excellent customer service and a lovely bit of the north west to enjoy. 10/10

a

amy

August 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

A lovely place to stay for camping with the kids, even with the midges :). The toilets were immaculate and plenty of shower rooms. We had a mix up with our pitch (i thought i had booked an electric pitch but it hadn't went through on hipcamp), the owner was brilliant and very accommodating. I wouldn't hesitate to book again if we are down that way.

M

Miley

July 2025

2 nights at RHC & Glamping

I love Glamping’s in Rachel’s land there is a great view and loved how there’s horses just up from the cabins and a walk to get to the top of the mountain would definitely go again but no shops near by but got an uber witch was quite cheap

R

Rachel

July 2025

1 night at RHC & Glamping

The site was easy to find and in a beautiful and peaceful setting. Gaining access to the pod was easy and even though not on site when I arrived, the owner left her number and answered my calls straight away. The pod had good amenities and was very cosy, the shower block and toilet area were extremely clean. It was a relaxing and stress free stay

L

Lynn

July 2025

Tent

3 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

The site was really peaceful with amazing views of the fells and estuary. Ruth showed me around and explained the little extras like the lending library and tiny snack shop. It was so nice to get away from it all and relax in the serene surroundings. Bluebell pitch was exactly as described with some amazing trees. The wildlife (including a tawny owl, woodpecker and a frog) were an unexpected bonus. I would definitely recommend the site to everyone. Thank you Ruth for a lovely stay.

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!

T

Tim

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Damson Shepherd's Hut

It was an outstanding stay at Jo's place. It was everything we wanted - quiet, peaceful, and very pretty. This was the ideal Lakes location.

C

Craig

June 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We loved our stay on primrose pitch. Listening to Osprey, looking onto beautiful views and we were lucky to have a clear night to see the stars. Ruth was so welcoming and has created a haven to restore nature and allow space for the mini beasts as well as sheep, chickens, geese and a horse. We were lucky to stay on the summer Solstice weekend and visit the amazing stone circle close by. We will definitely be back.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best campsites near Borrowdale with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Lake District National Park

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.

Scafell Pike

The Borrowdale Valley sits at the bottom of England’s tallest mountain, the 3,209-foot Scafell Pike. Climbers and hikers are drawn to the peak and usually base themselves in nearby towns and valleys like Borrowdale and Eskdale. It’s also possible to wild camp on Scafell Pike, which offers great views across the rugged landscape. Be prepared with proper cold- and wet-weather gear, as conditions can be harsh at these higher altitudes.

Solway Coast AONB

Separated from Scotland by the Solway Firth and Channel of the River Esk, the expansive coastal area of the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is known for its cliffs, dunes, coastline, and wildlife. North of Borrowdale and the national park, there are several campsites and caravan parks along the coast and in the villages of the AONB, many of which offer great views of the firth and across to Scotland.

When to go

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.