The Benefits of Winter Camping

Why Winter Camping is the Ultimate Escape (and Why Herding Hill Farm is perfect for it) 

When most people think of camping, they picture sunny skies, summer BBQs, and packed campsites. But for those in the know, winter camping offers something truly special — reduced crowds, off peak prices, peaceful landscapes, star-filled skies, and a deeper connection with nature. At Herding Hill Farm, we’re proud to be one of the best winter camping sites in Northumberland and the UK. 

Camping at Christmas

Herding Hill Farm is an open all year campsite, perfect for camping at Christmas, as are our sister campsites near Edinburgh at Drummohr, perfect for Edinburgh Christmas markets and Hogmanay celebrations and our 5-star site in the Peak District, Longnor Wood Holiday Park, also famous for its dark skies and perfect for visiting Chatsworth House and Haddon Hall, both of which are decorated beautifully for Christmas. So why not start a new tradition with camping at Christmas? Imagine spending Christmas Eve beside a firepit under the milky way, waking up in your glamping pod to fresh country air, taking an early morning hot tub and watching the sunrise and then going for a bracing walk along Hadrian’s Wall before settling down for your Christmas feast. It’s a truly memorable way to spend the holidays — simple, soulful, and stress-free. Many guests bring fairy lights, festive decorations, and even a mini tree for a magical Christmas camping vibe.

Whether you’re looking for a cosy Christmas glamping experience or traditional cold weather camping, here’s why pitching up in the colder months could be your most memorable adventure yet.

1. Escape the crowds

Spend less time waiting in queues and more time exploring scenic Northumberland. One of the biggest perks of winter camping is the serenity. No busy pitches, no queues for showers, no noisy neighbours — just wide-open skies, frosty fields, and the sound of nature. At our Hadrian's Wall campsite, our peaceful location is perfect for those looking to unplug and unwind, especially in the off-season. Whether you’re exploring Roman ruins or walking the snow-dusted moorlands, you’ll feel like you have Northumberland all to yourself.

2. Enjoy reduced entry fees

During off-peak season, many campsites offer discounted prices and you will also find various attractions offer lower entry costs when visiting during the Winter months. Herding Hill Farm typically run a promotion during the Winter period so keep your eye out on our website or Facebook page for special offers for Christmas camping and Christmas glamping.

3. Stargazing skies

Thanks to our location in the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, winter nights here are truly spectacular. The colder the weather, the clearer the skies – making stargazing from your tent or glamping pod a magical part of your stay. Plus the nights draw in early so you don't have to stay up too late! Want to take it up a notch? Book one of our glamping pods with hot tub or our lodge with hot tub and enjoy a glass of something warm under a blanket of stars. Wrap up warm and watch the sky come to life with a twinkling display. 

4. Bug free Winter camping 

Bugs like midges and mosquitos can be a nuisance when camping during the Summer but luckily as they can't stand the cold, you can enjoy bug free Winter camping.

5. Wildlife spotting in Northumberland

See Northumberland at its wildest. Northumberland in winter is raw, wild, and breathtakingly beautiful and the cold days of Winter can be the perfect time to see more wildlife. Wondering what species of animals can be seen and heard during this season? You may spot red squirrels and owls in Northumberland. Experience wonderful wildlife on a Winter walk and even practice your photography skills. Find out more about our recommended photography hot spots. And why not finish your winter walk by a roaring fire in one of Northumberland's real ale pubs?

6. There's a chance you'll see snow

There's nothing more magical than being cosy inside your tent or motorhome and seeing the snow fall down and settle on the ground when you are staying at a winter camping site. All our Wigwam cabins and Castle Pod accommodation offer insulated glamping pods. Our Castle Pods also have a wood-burning stove. You'll also be able to capture some great photos. The Hadrian’s Wall Path is quieter, the Cheviot Hills are crisp with frost, and historic sites like Vindolanda and Housesteads Roman Fort feel even more atmospheric in the cold.

Campsites Open All Year – Like Us!