From the wild, untamed peaks to the rugged moorlands and expansive views, the Peak District is one of the most striking areas of natural beauty in the country.
There’s no better way to enjoy the Peak District’s stunning natural beauty than from a campsite. Sleeping under the stars and waking up to a sunrise over a hilly horizon is the stuff of dreams. And the great thing about camping is that you’re undisturbed by urban chaos and often just a stone’s throw from the best hiking trails and natural landmarks. We’ve put together this list of the best campsites in the Peak District so you can plan the perfect camping holiday without the fuss.
North Lees
Sheltered in a valley just north of Hathersage, North Lees is a natural oasis of peace and quiet. Expect to wake up to the sound of birdsong and 360 views of nature before setting off for one of the many activities that can be found nearby.
The standout has to be Stanage Edge, with its popular walking routes, picnic sites and rock climbing spots. It’s so charming it’s been featured in several TV and film productions, including the 2005 adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Once you’ve explored Stanage Edge, you can wander around the woodlands, farmland and moorland and look out for local wildlife and birds.
Where is it? North Lees Campsite, Birley Lane, Hathersage, Hope Valley, S32 1DY.
How much? Camping pitches start at £12.50 per person per night.
Middleton Top
Credit: Middleton Top Campsite
Middleton Top is a quaint little campsite near the historic Derbyshire town of Matlock. It has all the necessary facilities and is family-friendly, with the owners on-site to give you a hand with anything you might need during your stay. From the comfort of your tent, you’ll have views of the Black Rocks and the Heights of Abraham, both of which are easily accessible by bike or foot if you fancy a hike.
The site sits at the start of the Great North Cycleway and the Pennine Bridleway so there are plenty of other walking and cycle options at your disposal, as well as water sports and fishing on the River Derwent and Carsington water. If relaxation is more your thing, you can explore any of the handful of historic market towns in the vicinity, or pop down the road to The Rising Sun, a lovely pub with good food and drink.
Where is it? Middleton Top Campsite, Rise End, Middleton, Matlock, DE4 4LS.
How much? Camping pitches start at £10 per person per night.
New House Farm
Credit: Johnathan Newman
Surrender to the truest form of country living at New House Organic Farm. It’s right on the edge of the Peak District National Park, where the rich history of the land is engraved in the scenery. The working farm guarantees an authentically rustic camping experience and they pride themselves in being entirely organic, allowing flora and fauna to flourish undisturbed. There are no fixed pitches and campers work around the grazing livestock and haymaking, setting down on whichever fields are free.
As well as the wonderful biodiversity on the farm (from buzzards and stoats to butterflies and rare flowers), you’ll be within hiking and driving distance of many beautiful local attractions. Spend a day traipsing along Tissington Trail, discover fossils at the National Stone Centre or enjoy a spot of independent shopping in the historic town of Ashbourne – whatever you decide to do, New House Farm will make a brilliant base for it.
Where is it? New House Organic Farm, Kniveton, Ashbourne, DE6 1JL.
How much? Camping starts at £12 per person per night.
Lathkill Wild Campsite
Credit: Lathkill Wild Campsite
If you fancy a laidback wild camping break, Lathkill Wild Campsite might be just the place for you. You can pitch up anywhere on the site and enjoy fantastic views of Lathkill Dale hilltops. The site is pretty stripped back with just the basics, but you’re more than welcome to bring your pup and friendly staff are on hand to assist if need be.
On a clear night, you can relax under a blanket of stars, unobstructed by the pollution of glaring artificial light. You’re also welcome to hire a firepit or some firewood to make your evening that bit more cosy. By day, you can head out to Lathkill Dale Nature Reserve and walk along the crystal clear water, picnic amongst the wildflowers or wander through the woodland. You’ll also be a short drive from the charming town of Bakewell – with its mellow stone buildings, medieval architecture and quaint courtyards, it makes for the perfect countryside photo-ops.
Where is it? Lathkill Wild Camping Site, Overhaddon, Barkwell, DE45 1JF.
How much? Camping starts at £15 per night for up to two people.
Middlehills Farm
Credit: Samantha Lewis
Middlehills is a family-run campsite sitting on 40 acres of land in the heart of the Peak District. The well-tended site has everything you’d expect and more, including an on-site shop stocked with camping essentials and fresh produce from nearby vendors (and eggs from the farm’s hens), plus a play area that’s perfect for energetic little ones.
For day trips, you can head out on one of the many nearby walking routes, like the Tissington Trails, or uncover the rich history and breathtaking views at Harboro’ Rocks (on a clear day, you can see as far as Shropshire). You’ll also be able to soak in some culture at nearby landmarks such as Haddon Hall and Chatsworth House, which has been voted Britain’s favourite country house more than a few times.
Where is it? Middlehills Farm, Grangemill, Matlock, DE4 4HY.
How much? Camping pitches start at £12 per person per night.
Newfold Farm
Credit: Sam Harker
Another working farm-campsite combo, Newfold Farm is tucked away in the heart of the High Peak near the Peak District capital, Chapel-en-le-Frith. It’s a peaceful, scenic site surrounded by hilltop views, with three fields for camping and a store and café serving delicious plates made from locally-sourced produce and ingredients fresh off the farm.
It’s perfectly located for sightseeing and hiking to astounding natural areas like Fairbrook Naze and the Jacob’s Ladder Footpath. History buffs can take a short trip down to the ruins of Peveril Castle in Castleton. The fortress is thought to have been built in the 11th century and was one of the first Norman fortresses in the country – from its hilltop, you can enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful Hope Valley.
Where is it? Newfold Farm, Grindbrook Booth, Edale, Hope Valley, S33 7ZD.
How much? Camping pitches start at £15 per person per night.
Beltonville Farm
Escape to Beltonville farm and enjoy uninterrupted views over the Derbyshire Dales. With nothing more than the basic amenities, the campsite is the perfect place to reacquaint yourself with nature’s wonders. Dogs are welcome, as are firepits and BBQs, providing the weather isn’t too hot and dry. If you don’t fancy cooking yourself, you can pop to the on-site café and enjoy a lovely fry-up in the morning.
It’s located right in the popular beauty spot of Millers Dale, which is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, meaning much of the natural beauty is perfectly preserved. You can explore the sprawling woodland along the banks of the River Wye, go climbing at Ravenstor or Cheedale and enjoy views from the twin viaducts along the Monsal Trail.
Where is it? Beltonville Farm, Millers Dale, SK17 8SS.
How much? Camping pitches start at £25 per night for up to four people.
Laneside Caravan Park
Credit: Millie Eke
Just five minutes outside the picturesque village of Hope, Laneside Caravan Park is a family-run holiday park that’s been going since the 1950s. They pride themselves on the stunning scenery, warm service and peaceful atmosphere. With tent pitches right on the bank of the river Noe, you’ll be able to enjoy the unique experience of being lulled to sleep by the soothing sounds of the water.
Their brilliant location means you’ll be well-placed to explore the best of the Hope Valley, with enough walking trails nearby to keep you occupied for a month. Adventure seekers can go climbing at Stanage or Froggatt Edge or caving at Bagshawe or Blue John Caverns. If you’re looking for something more leisurely, head to one of the nearby golf courses, take a dip in Hathersage’s outdoor pool or explore the many heritage sites at the surrounding towns and villages.
Where is it? Laneside Caravan Park, Station Road, Hope, S33 6RR.
How much? Camping pitches start at £22.60 for up to two people per night.
