What Makes a Good Peak District Campsite?

Every visitor is looking for something slightly different, but the best campsites usually have a few things in common: an excellent location, quality facilities, easy access to the National Park and a welcoming atmosphere.

Location

Location should always be one of the first things you consider.

A centrally located campsite allows you to spend more time exploring and less time driving between attractions. Staying close to walking routes, cycling trails and traditional Peak District villages also makes it easier to enjoy the area without constantly relying on your car.

Hartington Hills enjoys a peaceful rural setting between the villages of Hartington and Hulme End, making it an ideal base for discovering both the White Peak and many of the National Park's most popular attractions.

Facilities

Facilities can have a huge impact on your overall experience.

Modern shower blocks, clean washrooms, electric hook-up, laundry facilities and an on-site shop all add convenience, particularly if you're staying for several nights.

If you're travelling in a motorhome or caravan, you'll also want practical features such as serviced pitches, fresh water points and waste disposal facilities.

Our Facilities page provides a full overview of everything available during your stay at Hartington Hills.

Access to Walks and Attractions

Many visitors choose the Peak District because they want to leave the car behind.

A campsite with walking routes and cycle trails nearby means you can head straight into the countryside from your pitch.

Popular attractions including Dovedale, the Manifold Valley, Chatsworth House, Bakewell and Buxton are all within easy reach of Hartington.

Site Atmosphere

Some people enjoy lively holiday parks with entertainment and activities, while others are looking for somewhere quiet to relax after a day outdoors.

Smaller countryside campsites often provide a more peaceful atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy the natural surroundings and slower pace of life that makes the Peak District so special.

Best for Touring Caravans and Motorhomes

Touring visitors often spend several days exploring different parts of the National Park, making comfort and convenience especially important.

Fully Serviced Pitches

Fully serviced pitches make touring holidays much easier by providing electric hook-up, fresh water and waste drainage directly on your pitch.

This allows you to spend less time moving around site and more time enjoying your holiday.

Hartington Hills offers spacious touring pitches designed for comfort, convenience and easy access.

Explore our Touring accommodation to find the right pitch for your caravan, campervan or motorhome.

Washrooms and Practical Facilities

After a long day's walking or driving, modern facilities make a real difference.

Look for campsites with:

• Heated shower blocks
• Family and accessible bathrooms
• Laundry facilities
• Washing-up areas
• Chemical disposal points
• EV charging
• Wi-Fi

Clean, well-maintained facilities are often one of the biggest factors guests remember when reviewing a campsite.

Access for Larger Vehicles

The Peak District's beautiful country lanes can sometimes be narrow, so easy site access is important.

Choosing a campsite that's well signposted and accessible for larger vehicles helps make arrival much less stressful.

Best for Walking and Outdoor Holidays

For many visitors, the Peak District is all about getting outdoors.

Walks from the Campsite

The best walking holidays start right outside your accommodation.

Staying near the Manifold Valley, Beresford Dale, Wolfscote Dale and Dovedale means you can enjoy spectacular scenery without lengthy journeys.

Hartington Hills is perfectly positioned for walkers wanting to explore some of Derbyshire's finest limestone landscapes.

Nearby Cycle Trails

Cyclists are equally well served.

Traffic-free routes including the Tissington Trail and Manifold Way are ideal for families and experienced riders alike.

Bringing your bike allows you to explore quiet villages and countryside at your own pace.

Facilities for Active Holidays

Outdoor enthusiasts often appreciate practical extras such as:

• Washing up areas
• Laundry facilities
• Spacious pitches
• Hot showers
• Nearby pubs and cafés

Returning to a comfortable campsite after a day in the hills is one of the highlights of any walking holiday.

Best for Families, Couples and Dog Owners

Different holidays call for different types of campsite.

Family-Friendly Sites

Families often look for spacious pitches, safe surroundings, modern facilities and attractions nearby.

Hartington Hills provides plenty of open space while remaining close to family favourites including Chatsworth House, Dovedale, Heights of Abraham and the Peak Wildlife Park. See our Things to do page for more ideas.

Peaceful Breaks for Couples

Couples usually value peace, scenery and opportunities to unwind.

A quiet rural setting with beautiful views, excellent walking and cosy local pubs offers the perfect recipe for a relaxing break.

For those wanting extra comfort, our luxury Glamping accommodation and welcoming Holiday Cottages provide an ideal countryside retreat.

Dog-Friendly Facilities

The Peak District is one of the UK's favourite destinations for dog owners.

With miles of public footpaths, open countryside and dog-friendly pubs, it's easy to include your four-legged companion in your holiday.

When choosing a campsite, look for:

• Dog-friendly pitches
• Nearby walking routes
• Water points
• Space for exercise
• Clear site guidelines

Responsible dog ownership helps ensure everyone enjoys their stay.

How to Choose the Right Peak District Campsite

With so many excellent options available, asking a few simple questions before booking can help narrow your search.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

Consider:

• What type of accommodation do you want?
• Will you be walking or driving each day?
• Do you need electric hook-up?
• Are modern facilities important?
• Are you travelling with children or dogs?
• How close do you want to be to local attractions?

Thinking about these details in advance makes choosing the right campsite much easier.

Matching the Campsite to Your Holiday

Every holiday is different.

If you're planning long walks, choose somewhere close to the trails.

If you're bringing a motorhome, look for spacious serviced pitches.

If relaxation is your priority, a peaceful countryside location may be more important than entertainment facilities.

And if you'd like the experience of being surrounded by nature with a few extra comforts, glamping or a holiday cottage could be the perfect choice.

Why Hartington Hills Suits So Many Types of Stay

One of the advantages of Hartington Hills is its flexibility.

Whether you're camping in a tent, touring with a caravan or motorhome, escaping for a luxury glamping break or staying in one of our holiday cottages, you'll enjoy the same welcoming atmosphere, beautiful countryside and excellent facilities.

Our central location makes it easy to explore the White Peak, while modern amenities, spacious pitches and carefully maintained grounds help create a relaxing environment for couples, families, walkers, cyclists and dog owners alike.

Rather than catering to just one type of holiday, Hartington Hills has been designed to offer something for everyone—whether you're visiting for a weekend escape or a longer Peak District adventure.

If you're ready to start planning your stay, explore our Touring, Glamping, Holiday Cottages, Facilities, About Us and Book Now pages to discover everything Hartington Hills has to offer.