Camping in Caldbeck

Caldbeck sits right at the foot of some of the least-visited fells in the Lake District, which makes it an appealing base for campers who want quiet, open country rather than crowded lakeside sites. As in the rest of England, wild camping on open fell or common land here is not legally permitted without the landowner's permission, in contrast to Scotland's more permissive access rights, so pitching up on the open tops around High Pike or Carrock Fell without asking first is technically trespass, even though enforcement in these remote spots is rare. The safer, and more comfortable, route is one of the small farm-based campsites and caravan parks scattered through the parish and neighbouring villages, several of which make a point of their dark skies and fellside views.

This is proper northern fell terrain: exposed, steep in places, and capable of turning wet and windy even in midsummer, so anyone tempted to camp wild on the higher ground should be properly equipped, experienced with navigation, and prepared to move on quickly if challenged or if the weather closes in. Given the terrain, the best camping season runs from late spring to early autumn, when the ground is drier underfoot and the long evenings make the most of the fellside views; winter camping here is a serious undertaking best left to hardened campers. For those who want the scenery without the exposure, a small but growing number of glamping options in the area, from shepherd's huts to safari tents, offer a warmer alternative with the same big-sky views over the northern fells, without needing a tent, sleeping mat or stove of your own.