Pigs. Perceived wisdom hasn't been kind to our porky pals. Lazy? Idle? Gluttonous? How about leisurely; meditative; even gourmand? Like its swinish namesake, the philosophy of this lovely Lancashire campsite is one of unbridled relaxation. So do as the pigs do and get yourself to Anderton Fold Farm's unashamedly easy-going new site, The Piggeries.
Set in the sleepy village of Barton within the grounds of a 120 acre sheep farm (contrary to its name), The Piggeries is run by none-more-affable hostess Caroline. This is very much a back-to-basics farm site, oozing traditional English charm. There's boundless fields to explore, grassy hills to roll down, a brook to splash in, and eggs to collect courtesy of the resident chickens.
With half the site given over for tent campers on well-kempt but informally-arranged grass pitches, the other section is set aside for caravans (though this shouldn't put the canvas contingent off, as the two areas are suitably segregated). In addition, there's the Mega Pod. While this may sound like a Bond villain’s secret lair, it is in fact a luxury wooden cabin, kitted out with a double bed, plasma TV, and L-shaped sofa. Sharks and laser beams not included.
Beyond the farm, there's a wealth of places to explore. Just across the road from the long entrance drive, the Lancaster Canal walk is a great way to explore this often overlooked part of the north-west. To the north, the Forest of Bowland – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Heading east, the affluent Ribble Valley has many charming villages and a few Michelin-starred restaurants. This vast green expanse, scarred by meandering rivers, also served as the inspiration for Tolkein's Middle Earth. While to the west lie the bright lights and seaside kitsch of Blackpool – "the Vegas of the North".
So, as you can see there really is something for everyone at The Piggeries. Staying here, you'll be happy as a pig in... well... you get the idea.
