The Lakes Hide More than Just Sheep
The Lake District is famous for its views, but the real magic is finding a quiet pitch with a scenic outlook - without the 8 a.m. crowds. These ten sites hit the sweet spot: beautiful settings, practical facilities, and a bit of that Lake District charm without the hassle.
Caravan Sites Worth Booking
- Castlerigg Hall Caravan & Camping Park - Perched above Keswick with stone-built facilities, a campers' kitchen, and sweeping views of Derwentwater.
- Park Cliffe Camping & Caravan Estate - Near Windermere, award-winning for wildlife and conservation, with its own shop and bar.
- Skelwith Fold Caravan Park - A glamping-style site near Ambleside with woodland pitches and red squirrels for company.
- Lowther Holiday Park - Riverside setting near Ullswater and Penrith, with woodland trails and a family-friendly vibe.
- Waterfoot Caravan Park - Ullswater on your doorstep; great for lakeside walks and boat trips.
- Black Beck Holiday Park - A five-star, dog-friendly woodland retreat near Newby Bridge.
- White Cross Bay Holiday Park - Lakeside Windermere with spa, pool, marina, and pub (perfect for rainy days).
- Fell End Holiday Park - Southern Lake District, wooded tranquillity and open fields away from the buzz.
- Harbour Side Caravan Site - In Maryport, next to the marina with town cafes just a stroll away.
- Skyeside Camping Park - Small, scenic, with its own pub and underfloor-heated pods - dark skies and peace included.
What to Plan Before You Go
Some of these places book up fast, even midweek. A few simple steps make life easier:
- Book early - Especially for lakeside or dog-friendly pitches.
- Check hook-ups - Not all pitches include electric or fresh water.
- Pack for weather - The Lakes can shift from sunshine to showers in minutes.
- Bring local maps - Sat-nav might lead you down a single-track lane... and keep you there.
Avoid Common Traps
- Arriving late - Narrow lanes are not fun in the dark.
- Assuming on-site shops stock everything - Some are charmingly small. Cheese and bacon? Yes. Thai green curry paste? Not so much.
- Overlooking access - Some pitches aren't suitable for big caravans - double-check before you tow in.
Quick Word on Caravan Insurance
Lots of these sites are in remote or elevated locations. If you clip a post, damage your awning, or a tree branch tests your roof - make sure your insurance covers site-based mishaps and caravan contents. It's peace of mind when the wind picks up or the awning flies off.
Go, Pitch, Enjoy
Each of these caravan spots offers something a little different - whether it's lakeside calm, woodland quiet, or easy access to hearty pub meals. Pick your vibe, book early, and prepare for evenings spent under the stars - or beside a roaring pub fire. Because the best bits of the Lake District begin where the sat-nav ends.