I don’t think I’ve ever seen the night sky so beautifully clear as during my time camping in Kielder Forest.
Tucked far away from modern luxuries and bustling city life, it was awe-inspiring to see first-hand just what the stars truly look like when they’ve been unshrouded by the usual veneer of light pollution we’re so accustomed to.
Officially the fourth largest location in the world with ‘Dark Sky Status’, stargazing was just one of many terrific activities we got stuck into during our time at Kielder Campsite.
Home to Northern Europe’s largest man-made lake and England’s biggest walking forest – it’s the ultimate outdoors escape for walking aficionados like ourselves!
A rustic, back-to-basics campsite with no phone signal in sight, perhaps my favourite thing of all when camping in Kielder is how it really gives you the chance to recharge those batteries and get back in touch with your wild side.
Where is Kielder Campsite
Address: Kielder, Hexham NE48 1EJ
Website: https://kieldercampsite.co.uk/
Our Stay
Arriving early afternoon, checking in was a quick and simple affair.
Situated in the remote countryside of Northumberland – we simply parked up, clocked in at reception and were free to pitch anywhere on the spacious and scenic plot of land.
Conveniently nestled beside Kielder Castle Visitor Centre and connected to a whole array of trails to adventure on, you really do feel you’re in the heart of the forest.
Each morning as we emerged from our tent to rustle up breakfast as the sun rose, we were spoilt for choice with the variety of routes on offer.
Host to an abundance of plantlife and wildlife, during the night we could hear all sorts of movement and animal noises. With so animals calling the forest their home, don’t be surprised to spot badgers, deer, otters, red squirrels, shrews, bats and a whole range of woodland birds during your stay.
I’m almost positive I heard badgers sniffing around our tent one night – so be sure to pack all your food and belongings away at the end of the day!
UPDATE – I recently got in touch with campsite manager Steve, who confirmed that there are indeed badgers who regularly snuffle around the spot we pitched! Supposedly their set is only around 200 metres away, just across from the nearby river.
He was also kind enough to send me a clip he caught of one of the little rascals 👇👇
Walking/Biking Trails
Spanning over 600 kilometres of enchanted forest and 27 miles of glimmering shoreline, safe to say hikers and bikers are in shortage of trails to explore here!
Home to a large selection of long-distance rambles that’ll challenge even the best of walkers, plus plenty of shorter strolls suitable for the whole family – there’s something on offer for everyone and anyone.
The Lakeside Way is one of the most renowned trails in the area, which is a 27-mile loop around Kielder Water and guides you through some of the most picturesque segments of the forest.
Keep your eyes peeled for the 20+ public art sculptures dotted around the Lakeside Way – perhaps the most well-known being the spooky ‘Giant Forest Head’.
If you’d like more information on arrival, just around the corner from the campsite you can head to Kielder Castle Visitor Centre, which contains visitor guides and general tourist info.
With nine official walks available on the ViewRanger app, you’re equally able to adventure however you wish with the plethora of intertwining trails weaving all around the forest.
For more information, be sure to check out the official Visit Kielder website.
Observatory
A public astronomical observatory just next to the campsite, Kielder Observatory offers visitors some of the darkest and clearest skies in the whole of Europe.
The skies can be so dark that observers have been known to see the Milky Way and even the Northern Lights on occasion!
With access available to ticket holders only, Kielder Observatory holds a variety of events which are catered to all ages and abilities.
Taken straight from the official website:
“We run about 700 public events at the observatory each year which means we are open for our visitors almost every night of the year. Our observatory events cater for all levels of knowledge and for all ages from 6 to 106.”
Impressive stuff!
FAQs
Are dogs allowed on Kielder Campsite?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Kielder Campsite as long as they’re on a lead. We saw quite a few furry companions during our stay.
It should be noted that no pets are allowed in the static caravans however, although they are allowed in the pods provided you bring a blanket/bed for your dog.
What else can I do around Kielder Forest?
From walking, biking, bird watching, stargazing or simply kicking back and lazing around the campsite – you’ll certainly have plenty to keep yourself occupied during your stay!
If you’re fancying something a little different in the nearby area however, why not check out some of the below?
- Anglers Arms Pub and Restaurant
- Harmony The Holistic Mobile Spa
- Alnwick Castle
- Northern Wilds Foraging Co
- Hermitage Castle
Happy camping! ⛺