Spotlight on: Hillcroft Park

“It is so peaceful here,” remarked a fellow camper as we walked through Hillcroft Park on our way down to Pooley Bridge for a swift half, and we had to agree.

Just a short stroll down the hill you are among Lake District tourist bustle on the shores of Ullswater, but Hillcroft Park remains one step removed from that. The site manages to be green without being shady and it is evident that the family owners take pride in running a top-notch site.

We have stayed at this campsite many times as it gives us easy access to some of the Lake District’s finest fells and it is near to public transport. The facilities are exceptional and our small campervan is lost on the generous-sized pitches. I heard barking while I was in one of the roomy showers and I was slightly alarmed until I realised it was part of the soundscape that plays in the modern sanitary block. You might hear a buzzard calling, or sheep, and occasionally you might hear dogs!

The online booking system allows you to choose your pitch and our favourite is on the edge of the campsite where we enjoy the view across the fields.

Ullswater is arguably the Lake District’s most beautiful lake and a fabulous day out from Hillcroft is to take the Ullswater Steamer to Howtown and walk back, either over the fells or along the Ullswater Way. Turn left out of the campsite and spectacular views over Ullswater open out as you follow tracks over Askham Moor. Find the small stone circle and walk to the picture-perfect village of Askham and its hall and gardens. A short distance further takes you to the impressive ruin of Lowther Castle. These moorland tracks are excellent for cycling - if you don’t have a bike, you can rent one to be delivered to your campervan.

Along with pubs, Pooley Bridge has cafés and gift shops and the site has a shop for essentials.

Hillcroft Park
Pooley Bridge, Cumbria CA10 2LT
01768 486363

This site review first appeared in MMM magazine, January 2022 issue, submitted by Carol Kubicki