ROWTER FARM, PEAK DISTRICT CAMPSITE REVIEW

Rowter Farm is just outside of Castleton and  off Winnats Pass. Meaning it's in a prime location for walks around Mam Tor, Blue John Cavern and Peveril Castle - yet we have never been turned away due to it being too full.

PRICE AND BOOKING:  

We usually phone up a couple of days before - just to guarantee there is space for us - and it costs us £7.50 per person per night, so £30 for a 2 nights stay.

DIRECTIONS

Dependant on which direction you come, you may have to drive up Winnats Pass which is very steep and windy! So do check the route before hand if this isn't for you as you can come in from the top way instead...  HOWEVER keep those eagle eyes peeled as the site entrance sneaks up on you and has a gate - so you may need to drive past it if it's not safe to stop and get out to open the gate. Also please ensure you shut it again behind you as there are farm animals around.

THE SITE

Upon arrival, you can either head to the reception farm house or go find a pitch on the field as they will come to you for payment later. They do have a sign outside saying that ice creams and eggs are for sale - but I have never purchased anything.

The site is made up of two large, relatively flat fields separated by a wall in the middle, but both fields aren't always open. The facilities are up by the farm house, but not that far of a walk from anywhere on site truth be told - however I still take my porta-loo for those late night/early morning pee's! You do have to pay to use the showers, this is a coin timer box on the wall, and it's £1 for 3mins. This is enough for a quick wash after a walk, but not for a good soak. Also, be warned - if you are the first to use the shower - it will be baltic for the first two minuets while the water warms up!

The sun sets along the back wall behind the tree line so if you like sun - camp away from here as it will start to shade before the rest of the field. It's also approx a 15-20 min walk to the top of Winnats pass. I would highly recommend taking an evening stroll across the top, with a tin of cider and taking in the gorgeous views.