IF you’re an avid camper looking for the next big thing, you’re in luck as the AA has found the best campsites in the country.
Castlerigg Hall in the Lake District has bagged the top spot – and it has everything from basic tent pitches to luxurious glamping pods, a log fire lounge and beautiful lake views.
The results come from The AA which has released the winners of its 2026–27 Caravan & Camping Awards.
Castlerigg Hall near Keswick in the Lake District won the best in England and was declared the overall winner.
Castlerigg Hall was praised by the AA inspector mostly for its “breathtaking” view, great facilities, walking and cycling routes as well as its glamping pods.
The site has 118 pitches in total for tents, caravans, motorhomes and roof tents which start from £12.40 per night.
For those who want to hunker down with a more comfort, there are some lovely glamping pods on-site too.
The Hex Pod is the most luxurious option and looks more like a studio apartment.
It sleeps up to four people and comes with its own living area, kitchenette and balcony along with a private toilet and shower.
Prices for a Hex Pod start from £125.50 per night.
There’s also an Inspire Pod, Castle Pod, Family Pod and Standard Pod which start from £61 per night.
Campers can take advantage of the beautiful surroundings on its walking and hiking trails, there’s also a play field for running about or playing sports.
Around Castlerigg Hall there are lots of animals and although visitors can’t get up close and personal, they will be able to see them around the park.
Castlerigg Hall has its own Campers’ Kitchen available for its guests where guests can prepare meals – it has twin hobs, a microwave, a kettle and toasters.
Meanwhile, the Campers’ Lounge is a cosy barn and social area which has underfloor heating, a log fire, sofas as well as books and board games – Wi-Fi is available at no charge too.
Also on-site is the Gallery Café which has a outdoor terrace overlooking the Western Fells which are a group of mountains.
One of these are the Ouessant sheep, which is one of the smallest sheep breeds in the world.
It’s also home to two Mediterranean donkeys called Rusty and Dusty as well as pigs, Shetland ponies, Indian Runner ducks and a cat which is likely to be lazing about in reception.
Castlerigg Hall has closed for the season, but will reopen on March 10, 2027 – bookings are available to make now.
Here’s the full list of the AA’s top caravan and camping spots for 2026…
AA Campsites of the Year:
- England and Overall Winner: Castlerigg Hall Caravan & Camping Park, Keswick, Cumbria
- Scotland: Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site, Musselburgh, East Lothian
- Wales: Red Kite Touring and Lodge Park, Llanidloes, Powys
AA Campsites of the Year – Regional Winners for England:
- Heart of England: Waleswood Caravan and Camping Park, Wales Bar, South Yorkshire
- North East England: Ladycross Plantation Caravan Park, Whitby, North Yorkshire
- North West England: Riverside Caravan Park, High Bentham, North Yorkshire
- South East England: Sumners Ponds Fishery & Campsite, Barns Green, West Sussex
- South West England: Back of Beyond Touring Park, St Leonards, Dorset
AA Glamping Site of the Year:
- Bredon View Glamping Retreats, Pershore, Worcestershire
AA Sustainable Park of the Year:
- Waterrow Touring Park, Wiveliscombe, Somerset
AA Most Improved Campsite of the Year:
- The Green Caravan Park, Wentnor, Shropshire
AA Small Campsite of the Year:
- Llys Derwen Caravan & Camping Site, Caernarfon, Gwynedd
AA Holiday Park of the Year:
- Wooda Farm Holiday Park, Bude, Cornwall