- Carlisle/
- Camping
Best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays in Carlisle
94% (640) • 586 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carlisle
King Garth
1. King Garth
100%
(10)
6km from Carlisle · 1 unit
Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon
I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position.
In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you.
The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river.
My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay.
You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk!
Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there.
This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host.
The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Cairn Meadow Pods
2. Cairn Meadow Pods
99%
(43)
12km from Carlisle · 3 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Howbeck Lodge
3. Howbeck Lodge
94%
(27)
18km from Carlisle · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts
4. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts
100%
(13)
18km from Carlisle · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Ewe Love Camping Pods
5. Ewe Love Camping Pods
98%
(109)
30km from Carlisle · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
The Old Chapel Campsite
6. The Old Chapel Campsite
97%
(99)
48km from Carlisle · 30 units
Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
The Black Swan
7. The Black Swan
100%
(26)
61km from Carlisle · 3 units
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
The Damson Shepherd's Hut
8. The Damson Shepherd's Hut
98%
(60)
62km from Carlisle · 1 unit
A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Fairy Bell Wood
9. Fairy Bell Wood
100%
(11)
63km from Carlisle · 1 unit
An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Hill Top Huts
10. Hill Top Huts
97%
(121)
67km from Carlisle · 12 units
Scenic, simple glamping pods set beside a welcoming Pennines pub
Pets
Showers
Wifi
Stock Park Lakeside Camping
11. Stock Park Lakeside Camping
92%
(93)
68km from Carlisle · 15 units
Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Moss Side Farm Campsite
12. Moss Side Farm Campsite
94%
(133)
69km from Carlisle · 25 units
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Tyne View Camping
13. Tyne View Camping
100%
(18)
70km from Carlisle · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Tyne View Camping is a peaceful spot in Tyne and Wear, not far from Hedley on the Hill village. It's on a farm run by David and his family, who welcome guests to enjoy the beautiful countryside views.
You can see the Tyne Valley from the camping pitches, which is great for stargazing at night. The site is basic with just water taps and toilets, no showers, but there's lots of space for kids and dogs to play.
You're allowed to bring a barbecue or firepit for cooking, and you can buy supplies in Prudhoe nearby. Or, you can walk to Hedley on the Hill for a meal at a top-notch pub.
There are plenty of things to do nearby, like walking in the woods, playing golf, or trying gliding. You can also visit Hadrian’s Wall, Newcastle upon Tyne, or explore the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a varied and enjoyable break.Also this June we will be open for the Sam Fender weekend ie June 12 til the 16th if anyone wants to camp £20 a night plus a taxi for £20
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Woodman's Huts
14. Woodman's Huts
99%
(58)
72km from Carlisle · 3 units
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Hazel Mount Fellside
15. Hazel Mount Fellside
98%
(49)
72km from Carlisle · 5 units
Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Beirhope Alpacas
16. Beirhope Alpacas
98%
(137)
73km from Carlisle · 9 units
A small, off-grid campsite with alpacas in the historically rich southern Scottish borders
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite
17. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite
96%
(150)
74km from Carlisle · 37 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
Troquhain Woods
18. Troquhain Woods
93%
(34)
75km from Carlisle · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping for tents and campervans in a Scottish woodland
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Walkmill Campsite
19. Walkmill Campsite
98%
(122)
96km from Carlisle · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Refreshingly understated private camping in the unspoiled Northumberland countryside
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Cleghorn Farm
20. Cleghorn Farm
100%
(11)
103km from Carlisle · 1 unit
*PLEASE NOTE THE CABIN IS AVAILABLE FOR WEEKEND BOOKINGS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
94% (640) • 586 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Carlisle
King Garth
1. King Garth
100%
(10)
6km from Carlisle · 1 unit
Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon
I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position.
In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you.
The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river.
My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay.
You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk!
Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there.
This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host.
The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Cairn Meadow Pods
2. Cairn Meadow Pods
99%
(43)
12km from Carlisle · 3 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Howbeck Lodge
3. Howbeck Lodge
94%
(27)
18km from Carlisle · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts
4. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts
100%
(13)
18km from Carlisle · 2 units
Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Ewe Love Camping Pods
5. Ewe Love Camping Pods
98%
(109)
30km from Carlisle · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
The Old Chapel Campsite
6. The Old Chapel Campsite
97%
(99)
48km from Carlisle · 30 units
Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
The Black Swan
7. The Black Swan
100%
(26)
61km from Carlisle · 3 units
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
The Damson Shepherd's Hut
8. The Damson Shepherd's Hut
98%
(60)
62km from Carlisle · 1 unit
A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Fairy Bell Wood
9. Fairy Bell Wood
100%
(11)
63km from Carlisle · 1 unit
An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Hill Top Huts
10. Hill Top Huts
97%
(121)
67km from Carlisle · 12 units
Scenic, simple glamping pods set beside a welcoming Pennines pub
Pets
Showers
Wifi
Stock Park Lakeside Camping
11. Stock Park Lakeside Camping
92%
(93)
68km from Carlisle · 15 units
Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Moss Side Farm Campsite
12. Moss Side Farm Campsite
94%
(133)
69km from Carlisle · 25 units
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Tyne View Camping
13. Tyne View Camping
100%
(18)
70km from Carlisle · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Tyne View Camping is a peaceful spot in Tyne and Wear, not far from Hedley on the Hill village. It's on a farm run by David and his family, who welcome guests to enjoy the beautiful countryside views.
You can see the Tyne Valley from the camping pitches, which is great for stargazing at night. The site is basic with just water taps and toilets, no showers, but there's lots of space for kids and dogs to play.
You're allowed to bring a barbecue or firepit for cooking, and you can buy supplies in Prudhoe nearby. Or, you can walk to Hedley on the Hill for a meal at a top-notch pub.
There are plenty of things to do nearby, like walking in the woods, playing golf, or trying gliding. You can also visit Hadrian’s Wall, Newcastle upon Tyne, or explore the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a varied and enjoyable break.Also this June we will be open for the Sam Fender weekend ie June 12 til the 16th if anyone wants to camp £20 a night plus a taxi for £20
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Woodman's Huts
14. Woodman's Huts
99%
(58)
72km from Carlisle · 3 units
Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Hazel Mount Fellside
15. Hazel Mount Fellside
98%
(49)
72km from Carlisle · 5 units
Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Beirhope Alpacas
16. Beirhope Alpacas
98%
(137)
73km from Carlisle · 9 units
A small, off-grid campsite with alpacas in the historically rich southern Scottish borders
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite
17. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite
96%
(150)
74km from Carlisle · 37 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
Troquhain Woods
18. Troquhain Woods
93%
(34)
75km from Carlisle · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping for tents and campervans in a Scottish woodland
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Walkmill Campsite
19. Walkmill Campsite
98%
(122)
96km from Carlisle · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Refreshingly understated private camping in the unspoiled Northumberland countryside
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Cleghorn Farm
20. Cleghorn Farm
100%
(11)
103km from Carlisle · 1 unit
*PLEASE NOTE THE CABIN IS AVAILABLE FOR WEEKEND BOOKINGS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
L
Lauren
2 weeks ago
Tent
Lovely camp site with great views, Louise was very responsive and informative during our stay and even posted a coat that we accidently left back to us. Thank you so much, we will be back!
See more
M
Mandi
3 weeks ago
With pets
The place is exactly as described. Has everything that you need and host is very friendly, helpful and supportive. Views are amazing. Alpacas are lush was great getting to feed them.
Has everything you die your four legged friends.
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Brendan
March 2026
Tent
With kids
Malcolm was awesome hosting us - left wood and fuel. Great spot to land!
See more
J
Joanna
February 2026
With kids
We (2 adults and a 13 and 10 year old) enjoyed a two night stay in the pod. Lots provided with towels, bath mat, fridge and tea towels, washing up liquid. We asked for a pack for the fire pit which was waiting for us on the decking (I did however forget to pack matches so remember those!)
The sofa bed was quite small so I think it is better suited to three people at most depending on the age of the children.
We had a walk to the local pub but other than that spent time at the pod with the fire pit!
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Emily
February 2026
Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood
Ste and Emily's yurt was so relaxing for our winter getaway. We absolutely loved the wood burning stove and the hob was just enough for us to cook inside. We also loved that the yurt was located in between the Lakes and the Dales! We were able to get in a hike in on both days we were there! Would highly recommend! Thank you Ste and Emily for a lovely stay!
See more
T
Tommy
January 2026
Tent
2nd camp here lovely place and views
Showers, toilets are clean
Lovely little shop and cafe onsite
Beautiful horses
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A
Andrew
November 2025
2 nights at Cleghorn Farm
Friendly and welcoming environment! Nice place if you’re needing to get off the grid a bit.
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J
Jane
October 2025
Tent
With kids
Awesome pitch. Fantastic views. David was really friendly and welcoming. We will definitely be back. Relaxed atmosphere. Loads of space.
See more
E
Ellen
October 2025
Group trip
We absolutely loved our stay at King Garth! It is located in such a tranquil location beside the river and away from other houses, but with alpacas for company! The hot tub was perfect to relax in and we enjoyed a cosy, candlelit evening inside by the fire afterwards! It was fascinating to read about the history of the building too! Will definitely be back :)
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Tom
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Lovely spot to camp. The little creek made for some tranquil background noise to fall asleep & the local hiking was very picturesque. Thanks!
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M
Mandy
September 2025
With pets
Loved our first pod experience. Very warm and cozy. Facilities were great! Directions were a little confusing at the start as the sat-nav took us to the house a little distance up the road but once we knew our place it was absolutely fine.
Would stay again and will be recommending to family & friends.
See moreM
Michael
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Great spot to camp. Ted is very friendly and accomodating!
See more
D
Duco
September 2025
Tent
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.
See moren
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!
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Brian
September 2025
6 m Class B
With pets
Spacious clean campsite. Now our best one yet!
We chose the upper circle which gave us a lot more space and better views.
Clean toilets. Nice little shop with extras for guests.
Will certainly recommend and return.
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K
Kinga
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Absolutely amazing stay at Beirhope Alpacas. You can tell that Lynne has set everything up with love and care. Alpacas are a cherry on top of everything else. My 4 year old twins cried when leaving because they wanted to live there. We definitely found a new yearly visit place ❤️
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J
Jennifer
September 2025
Tent
With kids
This Alpaca farm is an absolute must visit. Unfortunately we were only here for 1 night but what a visit! This specific pitch is the middle one 1 of 3 that are in front of the Alpaca/Sheep fields and we couldn't have asked for better neighbours.
Lynne was extremely helpful upon our arrival and offered help with anything if it was needed...which it was when I realised I had the mattress but not the stopper to keep it inflated! She came to my rescue with cushions to sleep on which was over and above as far as I'm concerned.
We were provided carrots to feed the animals that evening and my son (4yo) loved feeding Harry the goat and between him and his friends it was a game to see who could feed Houdini before Harry got in the way 🤣
This morning my son was scheduled to feed the alpacas and whilst he was initially nervous he warmed up on the walk and confidently clapped Deeno.
This site is a bit off the road but take it easy and enjoy the scenery. Beirhope Farm is in a pretty stunning part of the country and I would 100% recommend a visit to anyone looking for everything you need on a camping trip.
If you forget anything she has everything covered, including an honesty 'larder' for the snacks or bits and pieces that you've forgotten.
Stunning! We will be back.
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K
Kerry
September 2025
3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut
I absolutely loved it here . It was my own piece of heaven ❤️
See more
K
Kathy
August 2025
Tent
We stayed in Phil’s Patch for just one night on our way north. Lynne offered us a warm welcome. We had our own private enclave in the trees. Posh composting toilets and everything well thought out. Wish we’d used the unique shower!
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P
Paulette
August 2025
Tent
The surroundings are truly beautiful, scenic, calm and peaceful. Lynne has ensured that everything a camper needs is close at hand. The pitches are well spaced out and on good solid terrain. Clean, accessible facilities, well maintained. Adorable alpaca herds literally over the fence. A wonderful retreat, we will definitely return. Lynne is simply lovely and has hit the nail on the head with this site.
See moreCarlisle camping guide
Where to go
Lake District National Park
Spread out over 912 square miles, the Lake District National Park is characterized by low-lying mountains and soaring mountains that are ideal for challenging treks and climbs. Along with 16 large lakes—including the deepest lake in England (Wastwater) and the country's longest (Windermere)—the park features a handful of tarns, a type of small mountain pool. Popular activities include cycling, stargazing, boating, and swimming.
North Pennines AONB
East of Carlisle, the North Pennies AONB is a UNESCO Global Geopark characterized by moors, dales, rivers, and forests, with plenty to explore on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback. The park is home to 16 Dark Sky Discovery Sites, ideal for nighttime stargazing, along with dozens of hiking and biking trails. You can get all the information you need to start your adventure at the Bowlees Visitor Centre, just over an hour’s drive from Carlisle.
Northumberland National Park
The most remote (and least-visited) national park in England and Wales, Northumberland National Park is the place to go if you've had it with people and want a bit of peace and solitude. It's a great place for hikes and cycling trips, and there are loads of caravan sites and campsites throughout the park, a few of which are right by Hadrian's Wall.
When to go
Carlisle gets rain throughout the year, though autumn and winter tend to get more days of rainfall than spring and summer. The climate is cool, but mild, and while temperatures rarely drop below freezing, Carlisle rarely sees temperatures higher than 20 degrees, even in the peak of summer. If you're a fan of the performing arts, consider visiting in March to attend the Carlisle and District Music and Drama Festival, a festival of music, speech, and drama founded in 1896.
