Country Living Adult Only Campsite
BackSituated on Westfield Lane in the picturesque conservation village of Thorganby, Country Living Adult Only Campsite has carved out a distinct identity for itself. It operates not as a sprawling holiday park, but as a small, quiet retreat primarily for couples and solo travellers seeking respite. With an almost perfect stream of 5-star reviews, it has cultivated a loyal following of returning visitors who value its core offerings: tranquillity, simplicity, and a personal touch. The business is consistently lauded for its peaceful atmosphere, a direct result of its strict adult only campsite policy and its limited number of pitches—around 12 to 15 in total, a mix of gravel and grass.
The Appeal of Peace and Personal Space
The most prominent theme across all customer feedback is the profound sense of calm the site provides. Visitors frequently describe it as a 'perfect little sanctuary' where the primary morning alarm is the sound of birdsong. The owners, Lesley and Dave, are repeatedly praised not just for their warm welcome but for their philosophy of allowing guests their own space. They are described as being on hand if needed but otherwise leaving people to relax and enjoy their break. This hands-off, yet friendly, approach is a significant draw for those wishing to disconnect without feeling entirely isolated. The site enforces a strict no-music rule, ensuring that the natural countryside ambience remains undisturbed.
Pitches and On-Site Facilities
The campsite offers spacious pitches, a feature that prevents the feeling of being overcrowded, which is common on larger sites. Each pitch is thoughtfully equipped with its own water supply, a small but significant convenience. For those requiring electricity, several pitches feature electric hook-ups that are metered. While some campers might prefer an all-inclusive fee, many reviews highlight this as a positive, economical system, as you only pay for the energy you actually use. One visitor noted their metered electricity was 'extremely cheap to run' even with an electric heater on overnight.
The on-site amenities are simple but maintained to an exceptionally high standard. The facilities consist of a single shower and a single toilet, both of which are described by virtually every reviewer as 'spotlessly clean'. One guest amusingly compared the clever, modern toilet to one found on an aeroplane. While the limited number of facilities might be a concern for some, the site's small scale means this rarely, if ever, presents an issue according to the available feedback. There is also a washing-up area and chemical waste disposal point.
Location and Activities
Country Living offers an ideal balance between rural seclusion and convenient access to one of the UK's most historic cities. A key advantage is the bus service that stops at the end of the lane, providing direct transport into the centre of York. This allows visitors to enjoy the city's attractions, such as York Minster and the Jorvik Viking Centre, without the hassle of driving and parking. The bus also provides access to a local pub, perfect for an evening meal. For those who prefer to stay local, the area is a haven for walkers. Being a dog friendly campsite York is a major benefit, and numerous reviews mention the excellent walks through woods and fields directly from the site. The village also has a fishing lake, and there are good cycling routes nearby.
Points to Consider Before Booking
While the praise for Country Living is overwhelming, its specific focus means it is not the right choice for every type of camper. The most obvious point is its adults-only rule; families with children will need to look elsewhere. Furthermore, this is a quiet campsite UK by design. Anyone seeking a lively atmosphere with on-site entertainment, a clubhouse, or social events will be disappointed. The site's appeal is its lack of these things. Its small size, with only around a dozen pitches, means that booking in advance is highly advisable, especially during peak seasons, as availability is naturally limited.
A Different Pace of Camping
The operational style is very relaxed. The 'drive on, choose your pitch' system is appreciated by independent campers but might feel a little unstructured for those accustomed to a formal check-in process and pre-assigned spots. The limited number of facilities—one toilet and one shower—although impeccably clean, could potentially lead to short waits during the busiest morning periods. Finally, the site's rules are clear: no large group bookings, no commercial vehicles, and no tents are permitted, with the focus being solely on caravans and motorhomes.
Final Verdict
Country Living Adult Only Campsite excels at what it sets out to do: provide a peaceful, clean, and welcoming base for adults to enjoy the Yorkshire countryside. It is an ideal choice for couples camping, solo travellers, and dog owners who prioritise quiet relaxation over extensive amenities. The personal touch from the owners, the spacious pitches, and the convenient location for exploring York create a compelling package that explains its stellar reputation and high rate of returning guests. However, its deliberate simplicity and strict rules mean it is a specialist site. Prospective visitors should be clear that they are booking a tranquil retreat, not a bustling holiday park, to ensure their expectations align with the serene reality of the experience offered.