13 best touring caravan sites in the Lake District

Have you ever felt like a lost wanderer with wide eyes, scrolling through endless options, and still unsure where to pitch your beloved caravan in the Lake District? It can be like standing at a crossroads with a dozen signs pointing in different directions.

You’re not alone in this. Imagine this—you’ve got your caravan all packed, the family’s excited, the dog’s wagging its tail, and then that nagging thought hits you.

Where do you park this thing for the best views, the most fun, and without breaking the bank? It’s like choosing the perfect dance partner in a room full of Fred Astaires and Ginger Rogers. You want the one that’ll twirl you just right.

Don’t sweat it. We’ve all been there, and guess what? We’ve got your back. We’ve scoured the Lake District, turned over every stone, and found this year's 13 best touring caravan sites.  

So grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s find that perfect pitch together. Ready to hit the road with confidence? Let’s begin.

 

1. Keswick’s calling: your caravan’s home away from home

Overview of the site:

The Keswick Club Site is a perfect base for exploring the Lake District, situated on the shores of Derwentwater. With stunning views over the lake and surrounding fells, this campsite offers an organised setup, particularly useful for those arriving by foot or bike.

Keswick town centre is within walking distance, and the site offers direct access to numerous lake and hillside trails.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Flushing toilets, showers, dedicated accessible facilities, and washbasins.

● Backpacker facilities, dishwashing facilities, gas cylinders, motorhome service point, parent and baby room, washing machines.

● Children’s play area and pets welcome. Club Site WiFi, shop.

● Various pitch types, including grass-only, grass with electric hook-up, hard-standing with electric hook-up, and super service hard-standing pitches.

● Activities such as boating and a pub and public transport within 1 mile.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Low season: from £12.45 per person per night.

● Mid-season: from £15.20 per person per night.

● High season: from £18.05 per person per night.

Booking can be made online or by calling 024 7647 5426.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Derwentwater: One of the most popular Lake District National Park destinations.

●  Theatre by the Lake: Offers various shows beside the shores of Derwentwater.

● Opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and exploring the beautiful valley of Borrowdale.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Keswick Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Crow Park Road, Cumbria, CA12 5EP.

Tel: 024 7647 5426.

Manager(s): Izzy Taylor & Mike Tennick.

Check-in: 1 p.m., Check-out: 12 p.m.

 

2. Park Cliffe: where nature meets comfort in the heart of the Lake District

Overview of the site:

Park Cliffe Camping and Caravan Park is located 3 miles from Bowness-on-Windermere, offering a peaceful retreat from daily life. The park provides stunning views over Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells and mountains.

Park Cliffe welcomes guests with various accommodation options, including touring and camping pitches, static caravans, luxury cottages, camping pods, and a shepherd’s hut.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Bar and breakfast restaurant (seasonal hours), games room, well-stocked shop, children’s adventure playground, private bathrooms for hire, and free park-wide WiFi.

● Accommodation includes touring and camping pitches, static caravans for hire, a luxury cottage, privately owned holiday home caravans, and lodges.

● Environmental credentials recognised with David Bellamy’s prestigious Gold Conservation Award.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing varies based on accommodation type and season.

● Booking can be made online or by calling 015395 31344.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Proximity to Lake Windermere offers opportunities for water-based activities.

● Abundance of wildlife such as squirrels, roe and red deer, foxes, and birds.

● Park Cliffe’s unique location enables a peaceful and relaxing stay, with opportunities for exploring the natural environment.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Not specified on the website.

Tel: 015395 31344.

Email: info@parkcliffe.co.uk.

 

3. Castlerigg Hall: luxury camping and caravanning in Keswick’s majestic beauty

Overview of the site:

Castlerigg Hall is a high-end caravan, camping, and glamping park in Keswick, the heart of the Lake District.

The park offers a tranquil getaway with stunning views over Derwentwater, perfect for couples and families.

The park’s elevated position provides breathtaking views of the Lake District mountains and Derwentwater.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Three types of pitch available, all on hard-standing, many with views of the fells or lake.

● Glamping options with insulated small timber huts, electric sockets, and lighting.

● Sheltered campground with ‌indoor heated “Campers Kitchen.”

● Gallery open, selling gifts and serving teas, coffee, and homemade cake.

● Exclusive for couples and families.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing varies based on accommodation type and season.

● Booking can be made online or by calling 017687 74499.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Perfect stop-off when walking up Walla Crag.

● Close to lakes, mountains, and Lakeland towns and villages for exploration.

● Various events and festivals around Keswick and the Lake District.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Castlerigg Hall Lake District Caravan & Camping Park, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4TE.

Tel: 017687 74499.

Email: info@castlerigg.co.uk.

 

4. Skelwith Fold: a caravanner’s dream nestled in Ambleside’s tranquillity

Overview of the site:

Skelwith Fold Caravan Park is a luxury 5-star holiday park set in 130 acres of ancient woodland in the Lake District.

Located just 1.5 miles from Ambleside, the park offers a variety of accommodation options, including touring caravans, motorhomes, holiday homes, cottages, and glamping holidays.

The park’s idyllic setting and proximity to popular places like Windermere, Coniston, and Grizedale Forest make it a perfect destination for a tranquil holiday.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Spacious pitches for caravans, motorhomes, and campervans, with standard and premium options.

● First-class facilities, including a play area with a 30-metre long zip wire.

● Advantage Club membership offering discounts and special offers.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing varies based on accommodation type and season.

● Booking can be made online or by calling 015394 32277.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Proximity to Windermere, Coniston, and Grizedale Forest for outdoor activities.

● Abundance of events happening in and around the Lake District.

● Opportunities to explore the magical woodland and catch glimpses of roe deer, woodpeckers, and red squirrels.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Skelwith Fold Caravan Park, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0HY.

Tel: 015394 32277.

Email: info@skelwith.com.

 

5. Gill Head Farm: Penrith’s hidden caravan gem waiting to be discovered

Overview of the site:

Gill Head Farm is a family-run working hill farm situated in the northern fells of the Lake District National Park.

Far removed from the tourist crowds, this lovely little farm offers space for tents and caravans, as well as farmhouse accommodation, a log cabin, and six timber camping pods.

The main camping meadow is wide and flat, providing grand westerly views of Blencathra and the Northern Fells. The farm’s beautiful rural setting provides a peaceful holiday experience.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Space for around 50 pitches, including 21 hard-standing caravan pitches.

● Modern and spacious shower, toilet, and laundry block.

● Log cabin with a television lounge and undercover barbecue area.

● Organised play area for children, fields, and streams to paddle in.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing information not specified on the website.

● Booking is through Pitchup.

● Nearby attractions and activities:

● Excellent walking country with superb fell and lakeshore walks.

● Ullswater is less than a 10-minute drive away, offering sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, open-water swimming, and fishing trips.

● Rookin House Equestrian Centre for adventure activities.

● Keswick, a beautiful market town, is only a 10-minute drive away.

 

Contact details and location:

Location: Penrith, England, United Kingdom.

Hosted by Amanda Steele.

Tel: +44 (0)1768 779953

 

6. Moss Side Farm: Broughton’s caravan haven for nature lovers

Overview of the site:

Moss Side Farm Campsite is a small, family-run campsite situated in the beautiful southern fells of the Lake District National Park.

Quietly nestled in scenic Woodland Valley, close to Coniston, the views here are second to none. The farm hosts various animals, including sheep, cows, horses, ducks, pigs, and hens, and offers a traditional Lakeland Hill farm experience.

The site suits older families (children aged 13 and over) and couples.

 

Key facilities and features:

● 25 grass pitches without electricity, suitable for tents, trailer tents, and VW-type campervans.

● Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead while on the farm.

● Plenty of space to explore, hills, woodlands, and streams all on-site.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing from £25 per night.

● Booking can be done online.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Ideally located near Coniston Lake and 40 minutes to Windermere.

● Plenty of footpaths and cycle routes filled with local wildlife.

● Lovely beaches of Haverigg and Silecroft are a 20-minute drive away.

● Great base for walkers to explore lower footpaths or challenge higher peaks like Coniston Old Man, Blackcombe, or Scafell.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Moss Side Farm Campsite, Woodland, Broughton-in-Furness, Cumbria, LA20 6DJ.

Tel: 07812 591151

Open all year round.

 

7. Black Beck Farm: Ulverston’s caravan retreat with a touch of tradition

Overview of the site:

Black Beck Farm Holiday Caravans is a family-run farm in the quiet village of Bouth, south of Grizedale Forest in the heart of the Lake District.

The farm is nestled between Lake Windermere and Coniston Water and offers stunning views of wildlife and scenery.

Open from March to November, the farm provides various accommodation options, including caravans, glamping lodges, a shepherd’s hut, pitches for tents, touring caravans, motorhomes, and trailer tents.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Electric hook-ups on hard standing for touring caravans and motorhomes.

● Toilet and shower facilities available.

● Within easy walking distance (1/4 mile) to the White Hart Inn, serving excellent meals and real ales.

● Pet-friendly accommodations available.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Available to hire from 12 p.m. for 24 hours, £25.00 per pitch.

● Bookings for electric pitches require a minimum 3-night stay over bank holiday weekends.

● Booking must be made in advance, and payment is required at the time of booking.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Close to world-famous Lake District Fells, Lake Windermere, Coniston Water, Ullswater, and other breathtaking surroundings.

● The market town of Ulverston is only 5 miles away, with bars, restaurants, takeaways, a cinema, and supermarkets.

● Larger towns like Barrow In Furness, Kendal, and Lancaster are within easy reach.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Black Beck Farm, Bouth, Nr Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 8JJ.

 

8. Ravenglass Club Site: where caravans meet the sea in perfect harmony

Overview of the site:

Ravenglass Camping and Caravanning Club Site is a walker’s paradise on 6 acres of woodland, just 500 metres from the seafront.

Located on the outskirts of Ravenglass, a picturesque Roman fishing village, this site is ideal for exploring the coastal areas of the Lake District National Park.

The campsite accommodates up to 70 caravans, motorhomes, trailer tents, and tents and offers three wooden camping pods.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Various pitch types, including grass with/without electric hook-up, hard-standing with electric hook-up, jumbo grass pitches, and super service hard-standing pitches.

● Modern toilet and shower facilities, large parent/child shower room.

● Three camping pods available to hire, sleeping 2 adults and 2 children or 3 adults.

● Playground and ball game field down the lane opposite the site.

● The village of Ravenglass (with its three pubs) is within walking distance.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Prices start from £11.00 per night.

● Booking can be made online or by calling 024 7647 5426.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Coastal, woodland, and fell walks accessible from the site.

● The famous Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, known as La’al Ratty.

● Muncaster Castle offers stunning views, fascinating history, and spooky mythology.

● The Scafell Mountain Range, featuring the tallest mountain in England, Scafell Pike.

 

Contact details and location:

 

Address: Ravenglass Camping and Caravanning Club, Cumbria, CA18 1SR.

Tel: 01229 717250.

Manager(s): Cindy Hughes & Tony Hughes.

Open: 31/03/23 - 29/09/23.

 

9. Lowther Holiday Park: Eamont Bridge’s caravan paradise for the whole family

Overview of the site:

Lowther Holiday Park is situated on the historic Lowther Estate, set in 50 acres of picturesque natural woodland on the stunning banks of the River Lowther at Eamont Bridge.

Open for 11 months of the year, this park offers a lifetime of holidays with friends and family or as a personal sanctuary.

Lowther Holiday Park provides various accommodation options, from camping and glamping to caravan holidays, including holiday home hire, touring, glamping pods, and camping.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Accommodations include holiday home hire, touring pitches, glamping pods, and camping.

● Activities and entertainment facilities available at the park.

● Pet-friendly.

● Located in the beautiful Penrith countryside in the heart of the Lake District.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing varies throughout the seasons.

● Booking can be made online or by contacting 01524 917311 for holiday inquiries.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Situated near Lake Windermere, Coniston Water, Ullswater, and other breathtaking surroundings.

● Proximity to the market town of Ulverston, with bars, restaurants, cinema, and supermarkets.

● Easy reach to larger towns like Barrow In Furness, Kendal, and Lancaster.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Lowther Holiday Park, Eamont Bridge, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2JB.

Tel: 01524 917311.

 

10. The Old Post Office: Santon Bridge’s historic caravan getaway

Overview of the site:

The Old Post Office Campsite is a small family-run campsite situated on the western edge of the Lake District National Park.

Established in 1951, it’s located in the quiet village of Santon Bridge, bordered by the River Irt, known for its salmon, sea, and brown trout.

The site offers camping, caravanning, and cottages, making it a perfect place for a holiday.

Nearby attractions include the Bridge Inn, Woodlands Tea Room, Santon Bridge gift shop, and Seascale’s sandy beaches.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Accommodations include camping, touring and motorhome pitches, and cottages.

● Free WiFi is available throughout the campsite.

● Short walk to the Bridge Inn, serving bar meals and real ale.

● Fishing opportunities in the River Irt (fishing equipment not provided).

● Located 6 miles from Seascale, with access to sandy beaches, shops, and a children’s play area.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing from £35 per night.

● Booking can be made online or by contacting 019467 26286 or 07968 425604.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Fishing in the River Irt.

● Short walk to local amenities like the Bridge Inn, Woodlands Tea Room, and Santon Bridge gift shop.

● Proximity to Seascale’s sandy beaches and coastal towns in Cumbria.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: The Old Post Office, Santon Bridge, Holmrook, Cumbria, CA19 1UY.

Tel: 019467 26286, 07968 425 604.

Email: enquiries@theoldpostofficecampsite.co.uk.

 

11. Solway Holiday Park: Wigton’s Coastal Caravan Oasis

Overview of the site:

Solway Holiday Park, formerly known as Solway Holiday Village, is situated on the coastline of the Solway Firth and is set in 130 acres of beautiful parkland.

It serves as a gateway to the Lake District, Cumbria, and offers self-catering holidays to suit every budget.

The park is under new ownership and has undergone an £8 million development, making it a top destination for families and holidaymakers on the Cumbrian coast.

It offers various accommodations, including chalets, hot tub lodges, caravans, and touring pitches.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Open year-round with a shop, restaurants, pet-friendly areas, outdoor play area, swimming pool, bar, lounge, laundrette, gym, fun house, arcade, and WiFi.

● Award-winning entertainment and outdoor activities.

● A short drive from beach views and a gateway to the Lake District.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing varies but starts at around £32 per night.

● Booking can be made online or by calling 01697 331236 for sales or 01697 331236 for reception.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Proximity to the Lake District National Park, offering opportunities for outdoor exploration.

● Close to the Cumbrian coast, with beach views and coastal activities.

● Various entertainment and outdoor activities are available within the park.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Solway, Skinburness Drive, Silloth-on-Solway, Wigton, Cumbria, CA7 4QQ.

Tel: 01697 331236 (Sales & Reception).

 

12. Whinfell Hall Farm: Lorton’s Caravan Sanctuary Amidst Rolling Hills

Overview of the site:

Whinfell Hall Farm Camp Site is a small, secluded campsite catering to various types of campers, including couples, families, groups, singles, and even Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) participants.

Located in the stunning western lakes of the Lake District, the site accepts tents, trailer tents, caravans, and campervans (under 6 metres in length).

It’s a pet-friendly and peaceful place to stay, offering a scenic retreat for all visitors.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Various pitch options, including non-electric and electric pitches for tents, trailer tents, campervans, and touring caravans.

● Amenities include BBQs, parking, toilets, and a washing-up area.

● Suitable for a wide range of guests, including families, groups, motorcycle-friendly, sports enthusiasts, retirees, solo travellers, students, and more.

● Located in Lorton, Cockermouth, providing a secluded and tranquil setting.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Non-Electric Tent, Trailer Tent, or Campervan Pitch: from £17.50.

● Electric Touring Caravan Pitch: from £22.50.

● Electric Tent, Trailer Tent, Campervan, or Touring Caravan Pitch: from £22.50.

● Minimum 1-night stay, maximum 5 people per pitch.

● Booking can be done online.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Explore the Lake District’s stunning western lakes.

● Activities nearby include Jordan's Jungle Fun House and Wordsworth House and Garden.

● Beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and proximity to local attractions.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Whinfell Campsite, Lorton, Cockermouth, Allerdale, CA13 0RQ, England.

Phone: +447706976907.

 

13. Howbeck Lodge: Hesket’s caravan hideaway for the adventurous soul

Overview of the site:

Howbeck Lodge is a friendly family-run site on a working farm in the Northern Lakes, providing easy access to the Lake District National Park, Solway Coast, Hadrian’s Wall, and southern Scotland.

The site offers touring caravan and glamping options from 1 April to 29 September.

Situated just outside the quaint village of Hesket Newmarket, it’s an ideal stopover for cyclists and walkers on the popular C2C route.

 

Key facilities and features:

● Fully serviced, hard-standing pitches for caravans, with a short walk to the shower and toilet block.

● Free WiFi, beautiful views, easy access, and chemical disposal facilities.

● Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead, as it’s a working farm.

● Moments away from the Lake District, with stunning natural beauty and breathtaking views.

 

Pricing and booking information:

● Pricing information isn’t specified on the website.

● Booking can be made by contacting 016974 78206 or emailing christine@howbecklodge.com.

 

Nearby attractions and activities:

● Proximity to Windermere, Lake District, and other stunning locations.

● Keswick is only a 40-minute drive, offering interesting shops, restaurants, and bars.

● Carlisle, with its famous castle and historical sites, is approximately a 30-minute drive away.

● Penrith offers good transport links, supermarkets, shops, pubs, and restaurants.

 

Contact details and location:

Address: Howbeck Lodge, Hesket Newmarket, Wigton, Cumbria, CA7 8JN.

Telephone: 016974 78206.

Mobile: 07887 804851.

Email: christine@howbecklodge.com.

 

Special mention: dog-friendly sites

Love your furry friend as much as your touring caravan?

These sites in the Lake District understand. Places like Keswick Club Site and Park Foot Holiday Park roll out the red carpet for your four-legged pals. Dog parks, special trails, and even doggy treats at the reception. Now, that’s what we call dog friendly!

 

Special mention: budget-friendly options

Who says fun has to burn a hole in your pocket? Sites like Skelwith Fold and Hillcroft Park offer top-notch facilities without the hefty price tag. It’s like finding a designer dress at a thrift store. Score!

 

Seasonal considerations

The Lake District's always in season in spring, summer, autumn, or winter. But want to know a secret? Visit during the off-peak months, and you might get a discount. It’s like having the cake and eating it too!

 

Sustainability practises & eco-friendly options

Love nature? So do these caravan parks. Solar panels, recycling bins, and even electric vehicle charging stations. It’s not just about enjoying nature but also preserving it.

 

Your next adventure awaits

Ever stood at the edge of a cliff, the wind in your hair, the world at your feet, and thought, “What’s next?” That’s probably how you felt before reading this guide, staring at your touring caravan and wondering where to take it next.

Now, you’ve got the keys to the kingdom. You’ve discovered the hidden gems of caravan sites in the Lake District, learned the secret dance of off-peak discounts, and even learned how to make your furry friend feel like royalty. 

So grab that map, pack your bags, and hit the road! The Lake District is waiting, and so is the best caravan holiday of your life.

 

Specialist touring caravan insurance through Ripe Caravans

Once you've found your ideal touring caravan site in the Lake District, you may want to consider specialist insurance to give you complete peace of mind during your trip. 

Through Ripe, you can get Public Liability cover to protect you if you accidentally injure someone or damage third-party property while using your caravan.

Find out more about the ins and outs of touring caravan insurance through Ripe, and get an online quote today.