Camping in the Peak District is an ideal place to start if you’ve never camped before. The region’s varied terrain offers something for every camper, and there are some excellent campsites dotted around the area. But what do you need to consider when planning your trip? We’ve put together this guide to help make sure your experience is as enjoyable as possible.
A Guide to Camping in the Peak District
The Peak District is an ideal place to start if you’ve never camped before. The region’s varied terrain offers something for every camper, and some excellent campsites are dotted around the area. But what do you need to consider when planning your trip? We’ve put together this guide to help make sure your experience is as enjoyable as possible.
Camping in the Peak District
Why should you go camping in the Peak District?
Camping is a brilliant way to spend time with loved ones or friends while enjoying the outdoors. Therefore, camping in the Peak District should be at the top of your bucket list if you’re seeking a quiet weekend away from it all or an exciting outdoor experience with your loved ones.
Why visit the Peak District?
The Peak District is among the most popular national parks in the UK, with a great range of activities available from walking, cycling and horse riding to coasteering and climbing. In addition, it has an amazing variety of wildlife, including red squirrels, wildflowers, and butterflies.
To preserve the beautiful landscapes of Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Yorkshire and Cheshire, the Peak District National Park was created in 1951. With more than 13 million visitors yearly, it is one of England’s most visited national parks.
Why camp in the Peak District?
Camping in the Peak District is a wonderful experience. There’s lots of wildlife, scenery and history to enjoy. Many people do like camping in the Peak District because it’s a great way to experience all this. Camping is also much cheaper than staying in hotels or B&Bs and more environmentally friendly. It might be perfect for you if you’re looking for an activity that gets you close to nature.
Before you drive to the Peak District
Before you go, ensure your car is in good condition and has a full petrol tank. It’s also a good plan to check that you have all the camping gear you need. Make sure there’s enough food, water, and fuel for your trip; if you’re travelling with children or pets, make sure they have their provisions too. You should also clear out any car clutter and unnecessary items. Finally, don’t forget to pack warm clothes and waterproof jackets.
Make sure that you take enough cash with you so that no one gets stranded without money. Also, remember that some places may not accept debit cards, so having some cash on hand could be handy just in case.
Car checks before camping in the Peak District
You will require adequate fuel to get where you’re going.
Ensure all lights are working correctly and your wipers are in good order.
Check your car for leaks and damage and ensure the spare tyre is inflated and in good condition.
It is also important that you check tyre pressure, not only for safety but for fuel efficiency. As caruno advises, “make sure that you check your tyre pressure every few weeks in order to maximise your fuel efficiency.”
What to pack for camping in the Peak District
Sleeping bag
Tent (the Peak District is very popular, so you may need to book in advance)
Sleeping mat/bag
Cooking equipment (stove or camping gas stove), fuel, and any food and drink you want to take with you. Bring cooking utensils such as spatulas and tongs if using a grill or barbecue. You might also like to consider bringing a tablecloth for your picnic area.
Food supplies
Enough water bottles for every member of your group. Remember that water from streams and rivers should never be drunk – even when boiled – so always stick with bottled water instead of risking contamination by drinking from the source itself.
While you’re there
While you’re camping in the Peak District, there are plenty of things to do:
Take a walk through one of the many forests and national parks surrounding your campsite.
Enjoy a hike up one of the hills or mountains.
Or visit some of the local pubs and restaurants for a meal or drink.
If you have time, ride a bike through some trails!
The Peak District has plenty of tourist attractions, museums, shops, churches and more for visitors to enjoy during their stay.
Where (not) to park
Don’t park in the middle of a field.
Don’t park in a place you don’t have permission to park.
Don’t park in a dangerous place, like a blind corner or near traffic lights.
Don’t park in an illegal place—for example, on public roads or private land without permission from the owner, who might be happy to see you, but not thrilled with your car taking up space.
Consider your surroundings and act accordingly.
Where to eat
You’ll be camping in the Peak District, so you’ll need to eatsomething. Luckily, this is easy to do! Options for eating out in the area include:
There are also food festivals throughout the year, so if you want a more central experience, there should be something available.
Things to do in the Peak District
So, you’ve found a great campsite and travelled to the Peak District. Now what?
There are plenty of things to do in this National Park:
Explore. Get out there and see the area for yourself! You don’t have to take a guided tour—you can drive around or walk through some of the more popular areas like Chatsworth House or Haddon Hall. There’s enough space here that you won’t feel cramped at all.
Visit local towns and villages. There are many places outside Darley Dale where you can buy food or get supplies if needed. It’s also worth stopping in Peak Village Makers Market or Bakewell Market on Saturday mornings and visiting other small communities along your route.
Eat out at one of our many pubs scattered throughout Derbyshire County.
Leave the campsite as you found it, or better!
The Peak District is a scenic national park, so you must leave the campsite as you found it or better. Pack out all your rubbish and don’t leave any food out for animals to get into; this is crucial if you’ve been camping near water. And, of course, ensure your campfire is completely extinguished before leaving.
Consider visiting the Peak District if you’re seeking a fantastic camping location. It’s a beautiful area with many different types of campsites to choose from. You can enjoy some quiet or have fun with other campers at one of the many sites. The Peak District is perfect for tourists and locals because it has many attractions!
‘Camping in the Peak District – A Guide’ – Written and kindly shared by Millie Fuller of the thewritersdiary.co.uk
