Island-hopping dinosaurs were part of the scenery in these parts some 190 million years ago. Many lost their footing and fell into the sea, leaving their mark on what became known as the Jurassic Coast. Hunting down their fossils is a popular sport in the quaint harbour resort of Lyme Regis. A couple of miles inland is Hook Farm, where a few steps is all it takes to be warmly welcomed at reception, whisked past a section for caravans, and ushered into a beautiful, terraced garden valley.

Spacious pitches allow room to spread out with gazebos and blankets. A dozen are tucked beside various bushy nooks and crannies, offering a little more privacy.You could select your patch according to your sleeping habits: early risers should head west to enjoy the morning sun, and night owls looking for a lie in can camp east, where the last of the day's rays fall. Sunsets look best from the top of the lull, while the lower area is better shielded from the elements.

To lift the spirits of any young fossil-hunters who return empty-handed from a day's beachcombing, plastic-dinosaur eggs are sold in the campsite shop.



COOL FACTOR Terraced site in a prime fossil-hunting spot.

WHO'S IN? Tents, campervans, caravans, dogs (certain breeds only) - yes. Groups - no.

ON SITE A total of 100 pitches including 17 for caravans; 56 hook-ups (£3).Two clean modern blocks of 5W, 5M loos and showers (20p for 4 minutes; 3 are solar-powered). Washing machine and tumble-dryer. Freezers are free; an onsite shop; a small play area. Arrive before 8pm and leave by 11am. No campfires; off-ground BBQs allowed (blocks available).

OFF SITE Guided 3-hour fossil walks along the coast, Sat-Tues (www.lymeregisfossilwalks.com). Visit the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum (01297 443541) in town, open daily.

FOOD AND DRINK Visit Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall's own deli, cookery school, and canteen at River Cottage (www.rivercottage.net; booking advised) near Axminster.

GETTING THERE Head south on the A35 then right on to the B3165 (Lyme Road). In Uplyme, turn right opposite the Talbot Arms pub into Gore Lane; the campsite's on the right.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Train to Axminster, Dorchester, or Weymouth, then bus no. 31 (www.firstgroup.com) to the Talbot Arms stop, then walk up the steep hill to the site.

OPEN March-October.

THE DAMAGE Tent plus 2 adults £ 15-£ 26; child £ 2.50.