Carrsides Farm

The gentle bleat of sheep drifts across wildflower meadows where swallows swoop low in the evening light, and the North Pennines stretch their green-gold shoulders toward distant horizons. This is County Durham at its most pastoral, where working farmland meets proper back-to-basics camping.

Carrsides Farm suits those seeking simplicity and space in one of England's least-crowded corners. Tent campers, caravanners and campervan tourers will find genuine rural tranquillity here, far from manicured touring parks and their regimented rows. The North East's heritage coast, historic Durham City and the wild beauty of the North Pennines AONB all lie within striking distance for day trips.

Facilities keep things refreshingly straightforward with clean toilets and showers serving the pitches. Campfires may be permitted, though you'll need to check the current situation when you arrive. The vibe here is authentically agricultural — expect farmyard sounds, genuine countryside silence after dark, and that particular peace that only comes from sleeping under canvas where land is still worked as it has been for generations.