That’s it! Summers over! Time to pack away the tent, stow away the sleeping bags and bin the camping mat that provided as much comfort as a sandpaper duvet.
But is it?
Many amazing campsites are open all year round and winter or off season camping can provide a unique camping experience, that with a little planning is as rewarding as any summer trip. Most campsites are quiet at this time of year, so any unseasonably warm weekend is an opportunity to try some late season camping. For hardcore winter camping advice see this article from the Guardian.
We’ve put together a list of beautiful campsites that are open throughout the winter months. It may be cold and sometimes bleak, but imagine the amazing solitude as the heaving masses huddle indoors contently adding a layer of winter fat.
Hooks House Farm
- The view from Hooks Farm
Based within the North Yorks Moors National Park, Hooks House Farm is situated on a working farm half a mile from Robin Hoods Bay and five miles from Whitby. With panoramic sea views you may need to huddle up but as consolation you can bring your own horse with DIY livery and stables.
Site info:
www.hookshousefarm.co.uk
01947 880283
Photo courtesy chris_barker
Thornton’s Holt
- Vale of Belvoir near Thorton’s Holt
Based in the pleasingly named hamlet of Stragglethorpe, Thorntons Holt is a few miles south east of Nottingham. With a friendly ‘farm atmosphere’ you may find a free range chicken pecking at your tent. Note: From 1st November to Easter the shop and swimming pool are closed.
Site info:
www.thorntons-holt.co.uk
camping@thorntons-holt.co.uk
0115 9332125
Photo courtesy: minimilkus
Ayr Holiday Park
- St. Ives near Ayr Holiday Park
Ayr Holiday Park is the only campsite in St. Ives itself and less than half a mile from the town centre. With award winning facilities Ayr Holiday Park will make winter camping a little easier and if it all gets a little too much head to the Tate.
Site info:
www.ayrholidaypark.co.uk
01736 795855
Photo courtesy: rumpleproofskin
Troytown Farm
- Troytown Farm
Perched on the western age of St. Agnes, Troytown Farm runs right down to the foreshore. The remote island boasts panoramic views of the Atlantic and is only a mile across, so winter camping is probably the best chance you’ll get to pretend you’re a mad hermit surviving on your own (served by a handy shop selling seasonal produce).
Site info:
www.troytown.co.uk
enquiries@troytown.co.uk
01720 422360
Photo courtesy: jeremy73
Syke Farm
- Syke Farm
Situated near Buttermere village in the Lake District, Syke Farm is surrounded by mountains and a lake. Although the location looks remote the site is only a three minute walk from the Bridge Inn and Fish Hotel. With a tea shop for winter scones in the local village. Be warned! No advanced bookings (But probably most applicable if you fancy the site in summer)
Site info:
www.lakedistrictcamping.co.uk/campsites/northwest/syke_farm.htm
017687 70222
Photo courtesy: gethiroshima
Gwern Gôf Isaf Farm
- Gwern Gôf Isaf Farm
Another farm based site, Gwern Gôf Isaf Farm nestles between Capel Curig and Llyn Ogwen, close to the base of Tryfan. If the location appeals but the temperature doesn’t there are two bunk houses sleeping six or sixteen people.
Site info:
www.gwerngofisaf.co.uk
01690 720276
Photo courtesy: dumbledad
Vale of Pickering Caravan Park
- Vale of Pickering
Close to the famous Yorkshire Moors the Vale of Pickering Caravan Park boasts nearby attractions ranging from Dalby Forest to Flamingo Land. The site is more focused on caravaners but if you don’t mind sleeping next to some middle lane hoggers the site is a great winter destination.
Site info:
www.valeofpickering.co.uk
01723 859280
Photo courtesy: gavwgb
