Whilst proper wild camping isn’t legal in England as it is above the border in Scotland, there are some places you can camp that are a bit wilder and are closer to wild camping. Following on from the popularity of my wild camping North East post, this post is specifically about nearly wild camping in Northumberland. If you want to read more of my camping posts don’t forget to come back to my ultimate guide to family camping that contains all of my best camping posts in one place, including my free family camping packing checklist printable.
If you want to see more places to camp in Northumberland then check out my Camping Northumberland – the best Northumberland campsites and tips from a local blog post and for glamping see Glamping Northumberland – 5 top spots.
Nearly wild camping in Northumberland
Wild Camping Northumberland, Hedley, West Riding
Over the summer this working farm opens up an area for VERY BASIC camping. There is a toilet and water tap and that’s pretty much it. Wild Camping Northumberland has stunning views across the Tyne Valley, woodland walks next to the campsite, excellent gastro pubs within walking distance, sunsets to die for and absolute peace and quiet.
The Boe Rigg, Bellingham
Remote, wild, spacious and scenic are all terms rightly fitting The Boe Rigg, in Northumberland National Park a few miles from the market town of Bellingham. The Boe Rigg camp is a little wilder and rustic compared to other sites but they do have a cafe, restaurant and bar.
On the doorstep is Kielder Forest and Water and the renowned darkest skies in the UK.
Bellingham is just two miles away where you will find a well-stocked Co-op, country store, newsagents, butchers & selection of pubs and cafes.
You can read our full review of the Boe Rigg campsite from our stay in Summer 2020 here. We’ve stayed here twice and do love it however the site isn’t policed on a night and both times loud campers have kept us awake until the early hours. Also bear in mind it’s quite an exposed site so maybe one to avoid in very high winds.
Hemscott Hill Farm, Druridge Bay
This is one I’m desperate to do – wild-ish camping on the Druridge Bay dunes. They have closed for 2021 due to the pandemic sadly but I’m hoping they re-open again. Just imagine going to sleep to the sounds of the waves and waking up to the view of the beach from your camping chairs.
Christmas Farm, Longframlington
Christmas Farm, is a small organically certified family farm in the heart of Northumberland. They produce rare breed organically reared meat and eggs together with a range of fruit and vegetables.
Christmas Farm offers a field with glorious views of the countryside for a wild camping experience. For many people the view, fresh water, a compost toilet and unlimited firewood are all they need to get back to basics, unwind and recharge.
Wild camping on Christmas Farm costs just £15.00 a night based on two adults camping. Children under 12 stay for free.
Ravenscleugh Farm, Elsdon
Ravenscleugh Farm in Northumberland has a farmhouse that offers bed and breakfast and you can also book to private camp there. With private camping you will have private access to the bathroom and shower downstairs in the house and access to the wild swimming pond as part of your stay.
They also have a wild camping valley – 200 yards from the house so you will need to carry everything you need. There is a beautiful burn running through the valley and you will feel totally at ease and relaxed here with the only disturbances being the otters travelling up and down the burn and curlews overhead.
This one is definitely on my hit list to try sometime, it looks idilic.
Budle Hall Field, Bamburgh
Exclusive wild camping in a beautiful field behind Budle Hall with sea views and a short walk to the beach. Each pitch has its own private shower and toilet and there is also an outside shower to wash off the sand. Sinks (cold water) to wash dishes. Two pitches only. Car parking separate from pitches – wheelbarrows supplied to transport your tent & bags!
£40 for a tent (one per pitch) and up to 6 people per pitch.
If Budle Hall Field is fully booked? You could also try wild camping on a beautiful farm with view of the Cheviot Hills or the Bamburgh coastline. Pitches offer total seclusion with options to buy local produce, breakfast hampers, or rent a fire bowl. £20 per pitch per night. Contact Lucy on 07597 420228 or email [email protected]
Doxford Farm Camping, Bamburgh
Set amidst 500 acres of working farmland – Doxford Farm Camping ensures that campers and glampers have the opportunity to relax, enjoy and explore all Northumberland has to offer.
As the campsite is at the heart of the farm there is always something going on to watch – from lambs in the fields to harvest! Gaze up at the stars above, light a campfire or enjoy the seaside nearby.
With over 5 miles of farm walks which include woodland, field and lakeside – there is plenty to do and see without even needing to step foot in a car.
Only 4 miles from the nearest beach and 6 miles from Alnwick, you’re in pole position here. Bamburgh Castle and Seahouses are a 15 minute drive.
Solar powered panels can be hired to provide a little electricity to charge items such as phones, small speakers etc. Batteries, ice, logs and overnight briquettes can also be purchased along with marshmallow toasting kits.
This site has fresh cold running water and loos but DOES NOT have electric or shower facilities.
If you are interested in camping Northumberland coast then I have a whole blog post on the best campsites near the beach in Northumberland.
Want to know more about wild camping in the UK then check out my Free camping in the UK blog post.
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You can read our review of our OLPRO tent that we love and you can buy the OLPRO Home tent here (ad/affiliate link) with 10% off with the code NYOMI10.
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Some great options! We stayed at Ruberslaw and Budle Hall last summer, both were excellent! Christmas Farm don’t allow kids anymore, I looked at booking this year, shame!
Oh that’s such a shame. Kids are what camping is all about.