A bit of history
Breaks Fold Farm was originally compulsorily purchased by Leeds Corporation (now Yorkshire Water). In 1966, the village of West End was flooded to make way for Thruscross Reservoir. Once a valley buzzing with life and a busy flax industry, it's hard to believe as you stroll along the paths. Some remains of the village can be seen, such as the communal sheep dip, and during times of drought, some of the buildings and walls begin to emerge from the water! The area is steeped in interesting local history.
The farm sits within walking distance of the walks around the reservoir. The footpaths throughout the valley neatly link Thruscross, Fewston and Swinsty Reservoirs together, making for miles of walking in beautiful surroundings. The area has also been awarded Dark Sky Status, due to the outstanding night skies on offer, great for keen star spotters.
Richard and Louise are now the 4th generation to take on the farm, primarily focused on breeding traditional Swaledale, Herdwick and Mule lambs. Louise also competed on Masterchef in 2017, where she reached the quarter finals – using some lovely Dexter Beef that went down a storm with all the judges. The farm has most recently featured on Channel 4's Carry on Glamping, Field Of Dreams. Although the buses are no longer hosted here, you can book our glamping (Shepherd's Huts) to stay on the field.
Breaks Fold Farm won the Tye Trophy at the Great Yorkshire Show 2022, North Yorkshire Area, for its contribution to the environment and conservation. Also, more recently, I was a finalist in the new Curlew Award 2023 for efforts in wading bird conservation practices. The family are proud to farm in an environmentally friendly way, enhancing the biodiversity of the farm and area.
The farm is CEVAS accredited for hosting educational visits. Please click on the separate tab for more information about this.
The family are proud to uphold and is fighting for reform in the tenant farming sector through their own experiences, by sharing their story and doing media and press releases.
If you have any questions about the farm or the area, please do ask during your stay.
Our Campsite and Accommodation
Breaks Fold Farm is a quiet, traditional Yorkshire hill farm tucked away in the beautiful Washburn Valley, part of the Nidderdale AONB and on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. We overlook the beautiful Thruscross reservoir and have access to excellent walking, cycling, and fishing throughout the Washburn Valley. The site is perfect if you wish to enjoy a peaceful, non-commercial experience.
If you want to explore The Yorkshire Dales, Harrogate or Skipton, we are a perfect base - fabulous views are guaranteed around and about! Our site is basic, clean and traditional. With twenty pitches in 1 large field and 5 separate electric pitches, there is loads of space for everyone. We never overbook the site and are constantly looking for ways to improve the facilities for camping and our other accommodations.
We have since opening developed and modernised the toilets and showers. The site is affiliated with The Freedom Camping Club and is open to both members and non-members.
Our season for camping is weather-dependent but usually runs from the 1st May bank holiday until the end of September/October. If the weather permits, we do try to get open for Easter, but sometimes this isn't possible. Our Shepherd's Huts are available to book all year round and are fully insulated with central heating, to keep you snug and warm even through the winter months.
We are a small family-run site and extremely proud of our little site. There is always somebody close to hand if you need anything via our 24-hour contact point.
Over the last 10 years, we have gone from 5 basic grass pitches to 20 grass tent pitches, 5 electric pitches and glamping. Over winter 2022, we have invested significantly in the site by installing a more modern toilet/shower facility to modernise our camping offering. We hope that we can continue to develop what we offer to suit our guests' requirements, but still prove to be one of the best value for money sites in the area.
