Bay Ness Farm Campsite

Bay Ness Farm sits on open ground above Robin Hood's Bay, with panoramic views across the bay and out to the sea horizon. The camping field lies to the left of the farm buildings on a working farm, so expect pasture, dry stone walls and a plain, rustic feel rather than manicured pitches. Visitors consistently mention the outlook, the large pitches and how quiet it is at night.

This is a small site that must be booked in advance. Booking is handled by email with payment in advance, and casual drop-in arrivals are not taken. A two night minimum normally applies, with an exception for guests arriving on foot or by bike. Group bookings are not accepted; dogs can be added to a booking and must be kept on a lead, and babies and toddlers are welcome.

Once payment is confirmed, the owners send the directions you should actually use. On arrival, follow the signs to Campsite Reception, register and get your pitch allocation before setting anything up.

The farm is reached from the B1447 via High Lane, off the A171 between Scarborough and Whitby. Phone mapping can be unreliable for the final mile and sometimes routes arrivals to the neighbouring farm to the south or up a very narrow lane. Use the directions supplied with your booking, take the approach slowly, and allow extra time if you are towing.

• Robin Hood's Bay is roughly 25 to 30 minutes on foot, partly along the old railway line known as the Cinder Track
• The coastline is a short walk out through the farm
• Whitby is about four miles away, walkable or cyclable along the same former railway route
• Long distance walking routes along the coast can be picked up down in the bay

• Bring food and essentials, since there is nothing to buy on site
• Pack a windbreak and warm layers; this is an exposed coastal hillside and the wind comes off the sea
• Contained fires in raised fire pits and disposable barbecues are allowed, but fires directly on the ground are not, and you need to bring your own wood
• The site is honest about being rustic and a little rough around the edges in places, which suits campers who want the view and the quiet more than polished amenities