They say good things come in small packages
and, with just six grassy pitches, there are few sites more intimate than Orchard Camping. That’s not to say you’ll find yourself squeezed. There is ample room
around each tent and, despite being an orchard, you’re not exactly tucked amid
rows of apple trees. Instead, this feels more like a cosy, ‘in your garden’
camping experience, an atmosphere aided by the house next-door which hosts many of the facilities.
From the undesignated spot you chose in the
camping field, it’s just a couple of steps into the main courtyard where you’ll
find showers, toilets and shelter if it rains. These outhouse buildings are
also home to a small kitchen area with a sink, microwave, hobs and a kettle
with complimentary tea and coffee. With such a small number of pitches onsite, you can happily stash food away in the fridge without worrying about losing it
later in the week. A drying area next to the kitchen is just the ticket for those who’ve
had a hard day out on the hills. And for those truly cream-crackered ramblers, home-cooked food can also be ordered from the house. Simple, comfort farmhouse fare, but excellently
cooked and well priced, rest those weary bones with dinner in the warmth of the inviting dining room.
The family-run rusticity of Orchard Camping makes
it popular with small groups, particularly hikers and cyclists taking on the
surrounding hills. Parties in need of slightly more than the six pitches
provided can extend into another small field which is similarly well-catered for by the
relaxed and welcoming hosts. Equally, singletons seeking peace and quiet in the countryside needn’t worry about gaggles of noisy ramblers next door,
the site is only big enough for a group to hire the whole place out exclusively, so there’s
either one group taking the site or no groups at all.
Beyond the campsite, a 15 minute walk takes
you into the pleasant old market town of Penistone, its name deriving from the
areas location in the foothills of the Pennines. Unsurprisingly then, the surrounding
landscape is criss-crossed by good footpaths and long distance walks, as well
as windy country roads that will suit cyclists looking for a challenge. The Tour De France flashed here in 2014, a doth of the cap to Yorkshire’s
top cycling reputation. Those who battle to the hilltops are rewarded with
truly spectacular views. That said, when you land yourself back in the grassy
garden of Orchard Camping you’ll still be able to boast a beautiful backdrop
and all with the warm friendly feel of this tiny farmhouse campsite.