When it comes to finding the perfect family-friendly break, few places offer the mix of scenery, adventure and comfort quite like Thorpe Farm. Situated just outside the historic town of Barnard Castle on the border of County Durham and North Yorkshire, our beautiful caravan park is the ideal base for exploring the best of Teesdale and beyond. If you’re looking for the best campsites in Barnard Castle, you’ve come to the right place.
Whether you’re pitching up for a summer holiday or a cosy countryside weekend, Thorpe Farm has everything you need for a memorable escape.
Why Barnard Castle is a Great Family Destination
Barnard Castle is packed with charm, character and family-friendly attractions. The town itself is home to the impressive castle ruins that share its name, perched above the River Tees with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s the kind of place where kids can let their imaginations run wild, stepping into a storybook past while parents take in the peaceful scenery.
Nearby attractions include walking trails through ancient woodland, riverside strolls, and hidden waterfalls. Bowes Museum is another local gem, offering hands-on exhibits and beautiful grounds for a relaxed afternoon.
And when your day of exploring winds down, there’s no better place to return to than Thorpe Farm.
Your Home from Home at Thorpe Farm Caravan Park
Since opening in 2008 with just five pitches, we’ve developed Thorpe Farm into one of the most welcoming campsites in Barnard Castle. Today, we offer a mix of grass and hard standing pitches with electric hook-up, all set within easy reach of essential facilities.
This year we’ve added a fantastic new amenity block to the park, designed with families in mind. You’ll find spacious family rooms, modern showers, disabled facilities and plenty of space to get everyone ready for the day ahead.
All of our camping and caravan pitches are conveniently located within 20 to 50 metres of the A66. It’s worth noting this is a busy road, so if you have any concerns about potential noise, we encourage you to speak to our friendly team before booking.
Fun for the Whole Family
There’s so much to enjoy at Thorpe Farm, whether you prefer to explore the outdoors or relax with a good coffee. We’re a dog-friendly site, and there’s acres of open space to roam, with walking routes winding through grassy fields, peaceful woodland and along the River Greta. It’s the perfect chance to stretch your legs, spot some wildlife or enjoy a family picnic surrounded by natural beauty.
For animal lovers, our on-site Wetheriggs Animal Rescue Centre is always a hit. Families can get up close to a wide variety of animals and even help with feeding. If you choose one of our seasonal pitches, you’ll benefit from discounted entry, making it a great way to keep little ones entertained without travelling far.
Shopping, Eating and Relaxing On-Site
At the heart of Thorpe Farm is our delightful Farm Shop, stocked with all the essentials you might need for your stay — and plenty of treats you didn’t know you wanted. You can even use our pre-order service to collect your shopping when you arrive, saving you time and effort.
If you fancy a bit of retail therapy, our Gift Shop and Reclamation Centre are a treasure trove of trinkets, keepsakes, home accessories and unique finds. It’s a great way to spend a leisurely afternoon and pick up something special to remember your stay.
And when you don’t feel like cooking, you don’t have to. Our Courtyard Café and Restaurant is open seven days a week, serving hearty breakfasts, tasty lunches and tempting snacks throughout the day. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge after a day of exploring.
Stay a Little Longer
Thorpe Farm is not just a place for weekend breaks. Our seasonal pitches mean you can enjoy the beauty of Teesdale all year round. Whether you’re returning each school holiday or popping up for a quiet winter escape, having a pitch here gives you the flexibility to make the most of every season.
With so much on offer both on-site and nearby, families often find themselves returning again and again. And with our team always on hand to help with advice or recommendations, you’ll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
A Classic Camping Experience with Modern Comforts
Camping should be fun, simple and stress-free. At Thorpe Farm, we’ve taken everything people love about traditional camping — fresh air, space, freedom — and combined it with modern conveniences that make your stay comfortable and easy. From our new amenity block to on-site dining and shopping, we’ve created a place where families can focus on what matters: time together.
Ready to experience one of the most family-friendly campsites in Barnard Castle? Book your stay at Thorpe Farm today and start planning your next countryside getaway.