Camping in Helvellyn

·

Scaling the 950-metre summit of Helvellyn—the third-highest peak in the Lake District National Park—has long been a popular challenge for hikers and mountaineers. There are several routes to the top, but the most scenic is via Striding Edge. Hike along dramatic mountain ridges, scramble up steep passages, then walk the summit plateau for magnificent views across the lakes and the distant Pennines. Summiting Helvellyn takes about six or seven hours return, depending on the chosen route, and there are five mountain ridges to explore. Campers will find plenty of options in nearby Ullswater and Thirlmere.

95% (627) 418 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Helvellyn

1. Moss Rose Campsite

99%
(61)
28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Pilling, Preston, England
We have a family friendly Quiet campsite in the heart of Lancashire on our family run farm. Our site is situated in a species rich meadow field with large mown Pitches surrounded by wild flowers and meandering pathways linking the site together. We are surrounded by a young trees & woodland with the back drop of the Pennines. We offer both glamping and traditional non EHU camping on our site, with lovely hot showers, clean toilet facilities, fresh water point, pot wash area, phone charger lockers, communal freezers, elsan disposal point, microwave, coffee/hot chocolate machine, and our little honesty shack with all little camping essentials to might need whilst staying with us. We also hire out picnic benches and fire pits to help enhance your camping experience. We have a lovely little woodland walk, with a meandering mown path, that winds through our woodland/conservation area. Perfect to walk your dog, and let your kids explore. Adjoining the campsite, we have a padock with super frindly sheep that love to say hello. We sell little bags of sheep feed, just incase you'd like to give them a little treat. In the middle of the site, we have a little tots play area, perfect for keeping you're small kids entertained. We are a Quiet family site, with a Reduced Noise policy from 9 pm, and Quiet Time from 10 pm to 8.30 am. Latest check in time is 8PM, unless prearranged with the campsite. Our site has close links to the A6 and m6 J33. We are only 13 miles from the Historic city of Lancaster, the Bright lights of Blackpool and the jubilee city of Preston. 4 miles from the first fair trade market town of Garstang and 45 mins into the Lake District. There is also lots of interesting activities to do locally.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night

2. Harebeck Holidays

84%
(22)
8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Wasdale, England
Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£25
 / night

5. King Garth

100%
(9)
1 unit · Glamping · Carlisle, England
Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£80
 / night

11. Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%
(3)
46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
Nestled in the heart of breathtaking countryside, Brayshaw View Campsite offers a peaceful retreat with stunning panoramic views, fresh air, and the perfect spot to unwind. From scenic hiking trails to charming local villages, explore the best spots to visit, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone. Discover Local Places Uncover hidden gems, charming villages, and scenic spots waiting to be explored. Experience the best of the local area, from historic landmarks to breathtaking nature trails. Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Settle Malham Bolton Abbey Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Things to Do Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy outdoor activities, experiences, and family-friendly fun to make the most of your stay. Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Ingleborough Cave Ingleton Falls White Scar Caves Vertical Skills Thornton Hall Farm Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Places To Eat & Drink Enjoy a taste of the local area with welcoming pubs serving hearty meals and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re after a traditional pint or a homemade bite to eat, you’ll find a warm atmosphere and friendly service. Crow Trees Inn The Plough Bike Hire & Training Explore the great outdoors with bike hire and training options for all levels. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous ride or a leisurely cycle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night

14. Church Lane Campsite

93%
(7)
126 units · Tents · England
Time for a slice of the simple life? Grab a peaceful Lake District pitch at Church Lane Campsite and immerse yourselves in proper scenic countryside with few distractions. This back to basics site has life’s essentials in place – in the form of drinking water, toilets and showers – but hasn’t gone overboard with other facilities, so you’ll simply be left to set up your space and soak up the gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Pitches here are on grass with trees around the field to provide a bit of shelter and shade – and the views are pretty much green as far as you can see. This setting gives the place a remote atmosphere that’s well suited to adventurous travellers, nature lovers and serenity-seeking couples or families. That said, it’s not actually all that remote – handily, you’ll be able to drive to Kendal in about 10 minutes for cultural attractions, shops and places to eat, and popular Windermere is about the same distance in the other direction. Closer still are a smart rural restaurant and the little village of Crook, a mile away and the home of the local pub – both excellent options for a good feed.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£24
 / night

20. Toadlands Shepherd Huts

100%
(4)
2 units · Glamping · Barnard Castle, England
Welcome to Toadlands Established in 2021 on repurposed farmland, our charming Shepherd’s Huts Roudabout and Bill Lunes offers glamping for two in style. Nestled into the Teesdale countryside, get back to nature in the luxury of a cosy Shepherd’s Hut. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or both, Toadlands is a special place to do it. So, relax in the wood-fired hot tub, stargaze by the firepit, and discover what the local area has to offer. The space We have two Shepherd Huts totally private from each other with separate access .The huts are supplied with Luxury linens, cotton towels and bathrobes. Fully equipped bijou kitchen, induction hob, ceramic sink, microwave, fridge with ice compartment. Generous bathroom with spacious electric shower & heated towel rail. Luxurious Hypnos bed and mattress with plenty of storage. The hut offers a cosy interior with walls finished in dark blue tongue and groove paneling, an oak floor and contrasting white ceiling. Sumptuous Linwood fabrics have been used throughout on the windows and furniture. Double glazed hardwood doors and windows combined with electric thermostatically controlled heating ensure consistent comfort throughout the changing seasons. Outdoors, relax in the wood fired hot tub or sit around the fire pit sipping wine or enjoying mugs of hot chocolate whilst enjoying the wonderful views of the Teesdale countryside. we are a stone throw away from the railway walk that can take you to the neighbouring villages of Romaldkirk, or Middleton- in-Teesdale, or hop in the car and take a short drive to the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle. Guest access Cars can be parked approx 100 metres from the hut, access is from the B6277 along a private grass lane, waterproof footwear is recommended for pedestrian access during wet weather.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£163
 / night

Scaling the 950-metre summit of Helvellyn—the third-highest peak in the Lake District National Park—has long been a popular challenge for hikers and mountaineers. There are several routes to the top, but the most scenic is via Striding Edge. Hike along dramatic mountain ridges, scramble up steep passages, then walk the summit plateau for magnificent views across the lakes and the distant Pennines. Summiting Helvellyn takes about six or seven hours return, depending on the chosen route, and there are five mountain ridges to explore. Campers will find plenty of options in nearby Ullswater and Thirlmere.

95% (627) 418 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Helvellyn

1. Moss Rose Campsite

99%
(61)
28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Pilling, Preston, England
We have a family friendly Quiet campsite in the heart of Lancashire on our family run farm. Our site is situated in a species rich meadow field with large mown Pitches surrounded by wild flowers and meandering pathways linking the site together. We are surrounded by a young trees & woodland with the back drop of the Pennines. We offer both glamping and traditional non EHU camping on our site, with lovely hot showers, clean toilet facilities, fresh water point, pot wash area, phone charger lockers, communal freezers, elsan disposal point, microwave, coffee/hot chocolate machine, and our little honesty shack with all little camping essentials to might need whilst staying with us. We also hire out picnic benches and fire pits to help enhance your camping experience. We have a lovely little woodland walk, with a meandering mown path, that winds through our woodland/conservation area. Perfect to walk your dog, and let your kids explore. Adjoining the campsite, we have a padock with super frindly sheep that love to say hello. We sell little bags of sheep feed, just incase you'd like to give them a little treat. In the middle of the site, we have a little tots play area, perfect for keeping you're small kids entertained. We are a Quiet family site, with a Reduced Noise policy from 9 pm, and Quiet Time from 10 pm to 8.30 am. Latest check in time is 8PM, unless prearranged with the campsite. Our site has close links to the A6 and m6 J33. We are only 13 miles from the Historic city of Lancaster, the Bright lights of Blackpool and the jubilee city of Preston. 4 miles from the first fair trade market town of Garstang and 45 mins into the Lake District. There is also lots of interesting activities to do locally.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night

2. Harebeck Holidays

84%
(22)
8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Wasdale, England
Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
from 
£25
 / night

5. King Garth

100%
(9)
1 unit · Glamping · Carlisle, England
Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£80
 / night

11. Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%
(3)
46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
Nestled in the heart of breathtaking countryside, Brayshaw View Campsite offers a peaceful retreat with stunning panoramic views, fresh air, and the perfect spot to unwind. From scenic hiking trails to charming local villages, explore the best spots to visit, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone. Discover Local Places Uncover hidden gems, charming villages, and scenic spots waiting to be explored. Experience the best of the local area, from historic landmarks to breathtaking nature trails. Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Settle Malham Bolton Abbey Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Things to Do Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy outdoor activities, experiences, and family-friendly fun to make the most of your stay. Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Ingleborough Cave Ingleton Falls White Scar Caves Vertical Skills Thornton Hall Farm Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Places To Eat & Drink Enjoy a taste of the local area with welcoming pubs serving hearty meals and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re after a traditional pint or a homemade bite to eat, you’ll find a warm atmosphere and friendly service. Crow Trees Inn The Plough Bike Hire & Training Explore the great outdoors with bike hire and training options for all levels. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous ride or a leisurely cycle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night

14. Church Lane Campsite

93%
(7)
126 units · Tents · England
Time for a slice of the simple life? Grab a peaceful Lake District pitch at Church Lane Campsite and immerse yourselves in proper scenic countryside with few distractions. This back to basics site has life’s essentials in place – in the form of drinking water, toilets and showers – but hasn’t gone overboard with other facilities, so you’ll simply be left to set up your space and soak up the gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Pitches here are on grass with trees around the field to provide a bit of shelter and shade – and the views are pretty much green as far as you can see. This setting gives the place a remote atmosphere that’s well suited to adventurous travellers, nature lovers and serenity-seeking couples or families. That said, it’s not actually all that remote – handily, you’ll be able to drive to Kendal in about 10 minutes for cultural attractions, shops and places to eat, and popular Windermere is about the same distance in the other direction. Closer still are a smart rural restaurant and the little village of Crook, a mile away and the home of the local pub – both excellent options for a good feed.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£24
 / night

20. Toadlands Shepherd Huts

100%
(4)
2 units · Glamping · Barnard Castle, England
Welcome to Toadlands Established in 2021 on repurposed farmland, our charming Shepherd’s Huts Roudabout and Bill Lunes offers glamping for two in style. Nestled into the Teesdale countryside, get back to nature in the luxury of a cosy Shepherd’s Hut. Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore, or both, Toadlands is a special place to do it. So, relax in the wood-fired hot tub, stargaze by the firepit, and discover what the local area has to offer. The space We have two Shepherd Huts totally private from each other with separate access .The huts are supplied with Luxury linens, cotton towels and bathrobes. Fully equipped bijou kitchen, induction hob, ceramic sink, microwave, fridge with ice compartment. Generous bathroom with spacious electric shower & heated towel rail. Luxurious Hypnos bed and mattress with plenty of storage. The hut offers a cosy interior with walls finished in dark blue tongue and groove paneling, an oak floor and contrasting white ceiling. Sumptuous Linwood fabrics have been used throughout on the windows and furniture. Double glazed hardwood doors and windows combined with electric thermostatically controlled heating ensure consistent comfort throughout the changing seasons. Outdoors, relax in the wood fired hot tub or sit around the fire pit sipping wine or enjoying mugs of hot chocolate whilst enjoying the wonderful views of the Teesdale countryside. we are a stone throw away from the railway walk that can take you to the neighbouring villages of Romaldkirk, or Middleton- in-Teesdale, or hop in the car and take a short drive to the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle. Guest access Cars can be parked approx 100 metres from the hut, access is from the B6277 along a private grass lane, waterproof footwear is recommended for pedestrian access during wet weather.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from 
£163
 / night

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Camping in Helvellyn guide

When to go

The most popular time to climb Helvellyn is from June through September, when the weather is most favourable for hiking, and the terrain is typically dry and easily accessible. Choose a clear, dry day for the best views. The summit is still accessible throughout winter, although it’s a much more technical climb, and shorter daylight hours mean you might find yourself descending in the dark.

Know before you go

  • Helvellyn is located just north of Ambleside in the Lake District National Park. There are several routes up the mountain, but the most popular are via Striding Edge (for the most impressive views) or Swirral Edge (for the shortest and easiest way to the top). Paid parking is available in Glenridding, the starting point for both routes. 
  • Hiking Helvellyn is a moderately challenging route and best suited to intermediate hikers. Depending on the route, there are some steep sections and scrambles. Hiking outside of the main season is best left to experienced hikers. 
  • The weather on Helvellyn is notoriously changeable, and it’s essential to check conditions before setting out. Follow the Lake District Weatherline for daily updates and prepare for all seasons, even in summer.
  • Proper hiking gear and boots are essential for summiting Helvellyn. Bring an OS map and compass, plenty of food and water, sunscreen, a raincoat, and warm clothes for the summit. 
  • Wild camping is not permitted anywhere in the Lake District. However, some hikers do wild camp around Red Tarn lake on the mountain’s eastern slopes.

Top counties in and near Helvellyn