The gentle walk down to Addingham is one of our favourite local outings. We’re lucky enough to sit on Addingham Moorside — right on the edge of the village — which means the centre of Addingham is just a short walk downhill from the campsite. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes on foot, through lovely moorland paths with the valley opening up below you, and it’s well worth the trip even on an ordinary day.
But in summer, there are a few events in the village that make it especially worth timing your stay around.
The Addingham Gala
The big one is the Addingham Gala, which takes place every year on the second weekend of July — a Friday and Saturday of live music, food stalls, fairground rides, and general village celebration. It’s been running for years and it’s the kind of community event that reminds you why village life in Yorkshire is so good.
In recent years there’s been a proper stage with live bands, a range of street food (everything from wood-fired pizza to Ghanaian street food, which was a highlight), and plenty for children throughout both days. Friday evening entry is free, and children are free all weekend. It’s a genuinely enjoyable event for all ages — we usually wander down ourselves once things are settled on the farm.
The Gala also includes a fell race, which follows a route up and around the moor. If you happen to be staying that weekend and fancy a challenge, it’s worth looking up.
It’s A Knockout
One of the more memorable events on the Addingham calendar is the annual It’s A Knockout day, organised by the Friends of Addingham Primary School. It’s exactly what it sounds like — foam pits, assault courses, general chaos — and it raises money for the school. Open to anyone aged 14 and over, and very much the most chaotic afternoon the village will have all year.
The walk down to Addingham
From the campsite, the walk down to Addingham takes you down from the moorside with views across the valley the whole way. It’s an easy walk, suitable for most fitness levels, and the village itself is well worth a look — there are good pubs, a local shop, and the kind of village centre that Yorkshire does so well.
If you’re planning a stay and want to catch the Gala, keep an eye on addingham-gala.co.uk for the confirmed dates each year. It usually sells out of wristbands in advance, so it’s worth booking early.
However you time it, our glamping teepees make a comfy base for exploring the area — book your stay.
— Chrissy & Mike