Camping is all about getting closer to nature, so what better place to camp than in a nature reserve? With walks aplenty nearby, Jerusalem Farm — nestled in the picturesque Luddenden Valley, near Halifax - couldn't be better placed.
Luddenden is a steep and narrow valley, an almost-hidden gorge deep in the heart of Pennine Yorkshire. Luddenden Beck, long exploited by local mills for its fast-flowing waters, runs along the valley's base, and it is by the banks of this brook that you'll find Jerusalem Farm.
As a nature reserve, it's a pristine slice of Pennine perfection, with untouched woods on the surrounding slopes and steep valley walls. For maximum peace and tranquillity, no vehicles are allowed; cars are parked up by reception and equipment carried down to the camping fields.
Visitors are also drawn by the exceptional hill-walking to be found in this region, including the Pennine Way and the Calderdale Way, a 50-mile circular walk running through the site.You're likely to spot plenty of wildlife on a stroll, as much of this area is protected countryside and an important breeding and nesting area for distinctive birds including the curvy-beaked curlew and the splendid crested lapwing.You'll also see red grouse hopping around wherever there's an abundance of heather.
Jerusalem Farm may have basic facilities (there's only one shower) and you'll have to fight off the midges down by the gorgeous river pitches, but it's a genuinely lovely place to camp, and gives great access to a wild yet understated landscape.
COOL FACTOR Car-free, tent-only riverside camping, right on the Calderdale Way.
WHO'S IN? Tents, dogs (1 per group) - yes. Croups - by arrangement. Campervans, caravans, motorhomes - no.
ON SITE Thirty tent-only pitches spread across a couple of meadows, many near the river. Facilities stretch to toilets, a shower, kids' playground, and picnic tables. No campfires allowed, but BBQs permitted.
OFF SITE Eureka! (01422 330069; www.eureka.org.uk) in Halifax is a great museum for kids. Or, for something a bit different, hit the slopes at the Halifax Ski & Snowboard Centre (01422 340760). And racing fans can enjoy a flutter, as York Racecourse (01904 620911) is only an hour away by car.
FOOD AND DRINK There's a food shop 2 miles away, between Luddenden and Luddendenfoot, selling basics, and you can find eggs and milk at Dean House Farm, a 10-minute walk away. The closest pub grub is at the great Cat-I'th-Well (01422 244841), a 30-minute walk away. There's a takeaway at Luddendenfoot, and Halifax has a number of restaurants. Moyles (01422 845272) in Hebden Bridge is popular for its fresh, locally sourced meals.
GETTING THERE From the A646 at Luddenden Foot turn up Luddenden Lane at the takeaway shop. After 3Л mile turn right, towards Booth. Go through the village and, after the sharp left-hand bend, turn left into Jerusalem Lane. The campsite is on the right.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT The site is a 10-minute walk from the bus terminus at Booth. No. 574 travels to and from Halifax regularly. Or take a taxi from Sowerby Bridge or Hebden Bridge stations.
OPEN Easter-end September.
THE DAMAGE Adult £5 per night; child £3, under-5s free.
Luddenden is a steep and narrow valley, an almost-hidden gorge deep in the heart of Pennine Yorkshire. Luddenden Beck, long exploited by local mills for its fast-flowing waters, runs along the valley's base, and it is by the banks of this brook that you'll find Jerusalem Farm.
As a nature reserve, it's a pristine slice of Pennine perfection, with untouched woods on the surrounding slopes and steep valley walls. For maximum peace and tranquillity, no vehicles are allowed; cars are parked up by reception and equipment carried down to the camping fields.
Visitors are also drawn by the exceptional hill-walking to be found in this region, including the Pennine Way and the Calderdale Way, a 50-mile circular walk running through the site.You're likely to spot plenty of wildlife on a stroll, as much of this area is protected countryside and an important breeding and nesting area for distinctive birds including the curvy-beaked curlew and the splendid crested lapwing.You'll also see red grouse hopping around wherever there's an abundance of heather.
Jerusalem Farm may have basic facilities (there's only one shower) and you'll have to fight off the midges down by the gorgeous river pitches, but it's a genuinely lovely place to camp, and gives great access to a wild yet understated landscape.
COOL FACTOR Car-free, tent-only riverside camping, right on the Calderdale Way.
WHO'S IN? Tents, dogs (1 per group) - yes. Croups - by arrangement. Campervans, caravans, motorhomes - no.
ON SITE Thirty tent-only pitches spread across a couple of meadows, many near the river. Facilities stretch to toilets, a shower, kids' playground, and picnic tables. No campfires allowed, but BBQs permitted.
OFF SITE Eureka! (01422 330069; www.eureka.org.uk) in Halifax is a great museum for kids. Or, for something a bit different, hit the slopes at the Halifax Ski & Snowboard Centre (01422 340760). And racing fans can enjoy a flutter, as York Racecourse (01904 620911) is only an hour away by car.
FOOD AND DRINK There's a food shop 2 miles away, between Luddenden and Luddendenfoot, selling basics, and you can find eggs and milk at Dean House Farm, a 10-minute walk away. The closest pub grub is at the great Cat-I'th-Well (01422 244841), a 30-minute walk away. There's a takeaway at Luddendenfoot, and Halifax has a number of restaurants. Moyles (01422 845272) in Hebden Bridge is popular for its fresh, locally sourced meals.
GETTING THERE From the A646 at Luddenden Foot turn up Luddenden Lane at the takeaway shop. After 3Л mile turn right, towards Booth. Go through the village and, after the sharp left-hand bend, turn left into Jerusalem Lane. The campsite is on the right.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT The site is a 10-minute walk from the bus terminus at Booth. No. 574 travels to and from Halifax regularly. Or take a taxi from Sowerby Bridge or Hebden Bridge stations.
OPEN Easter-end September.
THE DAMAGE Adult £5 per night; child £3, under-5s free.