THE Penrith-based Farmer Network held a meeting focusing on pop-up campsites.

The network organised a meeting with the Yorkshire Dales National Park to discuss what is involved after interest was shown by farmers who regard pop-up campsites as a way of ‘dipping their toe in the water’ of a farm tourism enterprise without significant investment.

National parks are also keen to accommodate increasing numbers of visitors when Covid restrictions are lifted and to manage problems such as rough camping.

At the meeting, marketing agents Pitch Up, made presentations alongside local farmers who shared their experience in running pop-up campsites.

Pitch-Up, reported that its bookings increased by 11 per cent last year with growing interest for spring and summer 2021, once lockdown restrictions are eased. The 56-day rule does not include caravans or campervans. Only tents are allowed including bell tents and tepees.

Toilet and washing facilities must be provided and these can be hired if there are no facilities on the farm. One farmer recommended shopping around for quotes and hiring for a full season rather than by the week. Another farmer had invested in compostable toilets.