In the heart of the Peak District, a hidden gem awaits families seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Imagine a place where the warm summer breeze whispers through the trees, and the laughter of children echoes across lush green fields. This is Callow Top, an award-winning caravan and camping site that has become a sanctuary for families seeking adventure and tranquility. But what truly sets Callow Top apart is its unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it the perfect destination for those looking to reconnect with nature without compromising on comfort and convenience.
One of the main attractions of Callow Top is its heated outdoor swimming pool, which is open from May to September. This is a rare find in the world of camping, where pools are often a luxury found in resorts. The pool is not just a splash pad; it's a haven for families, offering a refreshing dip on hot summer days. And for the little ones, there's a separate paddling pool, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the water safely. But the fun doesn't stop there; the site also boasts a play area with climbing frames and a slide, providing hours of outdoor fun for the kids.
For those who love to fish, Callow Top has a fishing lake stocked with a variety of fish, from rudd and roach to tench, perch, crucian, and mirror carp. The park provides a wide selection of pegs, including double pegs suitable for parent and child/disabled fishing, making it an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all. And if you're a dog owner, you'll be pleased to know that the park is dog-friendly, with an enclosed field where your furry friends can run free.
But Callow Top is more than just a camping site; it's a destination. The park is listed in Practical Caravan's Top 100 Sites Guide for 2026, and for good reason. It's within walking distance of the market town of Ashbourne and within easy reach of Bakewell, Matlock, and Buxton. Visitors can take a stroll through beautiful gardens or ride the cable cars up to The Heights of Abraham, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. And for thrill seekers, Alton Towers is just a 20-minute drive away, providing an adrenaline-pumping day out.
The park's reception manager, Dan Lee, highlights the appeal of Callow Top for families. "We're a very popular site for families, especially during the summer holidays, and a lot of our guests come from Manchester," he says. "It's an easy drive away, so people can leave the city behind and be in the heart of the Peak District before they know it. I think that's a big part of the appeal – you don't have to travel for hours to enjoy some fantastic countryside and really switch off."
The park has a 4.3 out of 5-star rating on Google, with guests praising the 'beautiful location' and cleanliness of the site. One mum, who gave it a five-star review, said, "I've been here with my young boys a few times and they love it. It's the one place they ask to come back time and time again. It's clean. The staff are friendly. There's a pool, games room, and a pub on site. Plenty of walks you can take into Ashbourne or surrounding areas. Great spot to visit Matlock and other tourist attractions in the area."
Another guest commented, "Fantastic two-night break away from home at this little gem of a site. Really well-maintained pitches, reasonable rates, large spaces for trailer tents, clean and well-kept shower and toilet blocks too. The kids loved the swimming pool, games room, park, and generally being able to just play footy or make friends. I came to visit this site as a child probably about 30 years ago but we won't be leaving it that long to visit again. The staff in the reception and shop were friendly and happy to help, and the shop was reasonably priced too, with a massive variety of items you might need when camping."
Prices start from around £22.50 a night for a tent pitch in low season, for a car with two people, rising to £42.50 in peak season. Self-catering short breaks are from £375, and weekly stays range from £525 to £850. The park also offers a range of self-catering accommodation, including lodges, providing families with the option to stay in comfort while still enjoying the camping experience. For more information, visit the park's website at https://www.callowtop.co.uk/.
In my opinion, Callow Top is more than just a camping site; it's a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for a fun-filled holiday, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a solo adventurer wanting to immerse yourself in nature, Callow Top has something to offer. So, if you're planning your next adventure, consider Callow Top. It might just be the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
