So what makes England’s finest back-to-basics campsite? Quiet farmland location? A nearby wandering river? Friendly owners who like campfires, children and dogs? Well, Swaledale has all of the above and a lot more to boot. Nestled right next to the River Swale (and only half a mile from it’s source), you’ll find nothing fancy here, nothing flash, and nothing gimmicky – just a simple, rural campsite in a lovely location. With little campfires dotting the riverside, the hustle and bustle of urban life seems a long way away; so much so that it’d be all too easy to spend several days here without feeling the need to leave.
But that might be a shame, as there’s a torrent of things to do. We all know the Dales is a paradise for walkers and cyclists, but there's plenty for non-walkers too, from exploring the legacy of literary veterinarian James Herriot (of All Creatures Great and Small fame), to sampling the favourite teatime snack of Wallace and Gromit at the Wensleydale Creamery. Richmond is also a tasty destination (sorry!), largely thanks to its imposing castle, whose walls and colossal keep cling to a precipice above the River Swale. Indeed, the entire town is a delight to discover, centred on a large cobbled market square backed by Georgian buildings, gardens and hidden alleys.
Swaledale Camping can be found at Hoggarths; a working Yorkshire farm, which breed’s pedigree Swaledale sheep. April and May are special months to visit, as this is when the lambs are born. A springtime visit will see the fields and buildings bursting with new-borns and their mothers – ask and you may get the chance to bottle feed a few! In July and August the sheep are gathered for shearing. The fleeces are sheared off in one piece, then expertly folded and packed ready to be sent to the Wool Board. Some finds its way to the Swaledale Woollen Shop in Muker, but the majority is made into carpets.
It's worth mentioning that facilities at Swaledale are extremely basic as Raymond and Alison (who own the place) are firm believers that less is, in fact, more. For example, rather than building a view-obscuring shower block, campers are encouraged to take a morning dip in the refreshing River Swale. Of course, such a stimulating shampoo won’t suit all Cool Campers, but for those who enjoy camping on the wild side, long walks and river side campfires, Swaledale is simply a must visit.
Fresh free-range eggs are available for sale when the site's resident hens are laying. Keld Lodge Hotel & Restaurant (01748 886259) boasts lovely views across Swaledale and is open to both residents and non-residents. Head Chef Tom Carlisle we have gained a reputation for high quality dishes using the best seasonal and local produce. At lunchtime they serve a range of tasty hot or cold dishes such as beef and ale pie, bangers and mash or fisherman's pie. Or, if you are looking for something lighter, they also provide a range of sandwiches and homemade soup. At the bottom of the village, Muker Tearoom (01748 886409) welcomes walkers with homemade cakes, cream teas and light lunches. The china cups are a nice touch, and the sandwiches are always beautifully prepared; the gammon and Wenslydale cheese sandwich is especially popular with walkers.
