Some say that Britain's decline as a world power is directly attributable to the dearth of campsites offering facilities for campers who want to bring their horse along. If that's so, no one can blame the owners of Monstay Farm, whose stables are ready and waiting (though will need to be pre-booked). Opened in 2009, the 100-acrc sheep-and-catde farm's campsite sports two slightly sloping fields, one with a gorgeous view west to the Cambrian Mountains, while the other looks south over a Hock of sheep and Mortimer Forest.

The nearby facilities are basic but clean. And the whole shebang is up a very long track and thus away from traffic noise. Kids intent on hiding-and-seeking, den-building, or just getting away from their fuddy-duddy parents for a while will delight in the woods adjacent to the site. Off-road cyclists of all ages, meanwhile, can take off on the trail that runs through the farm or head for the paths that cross Mortimer Forest.The River Teme, which flows a few miles to the north, is a hit with wild swimmers, while those who prefer the dryness of footpaths can enjoy a pleasant circular walk down to the church at Burrington.

COOL FACTOR Want to take your horse camping? Trot right up.

WHO'S IN? Tents, campervans, caravans, dogs, big groups - yes. Motorhomes, young groups - no.

ON SITE Communal fire circle and fire bowls for hire (£5), and kindling and firewood for sale. Pitches: 20 for tents, 5 for caravans; 6 electric hook-ups. Three somewhat rustic loos and 2 showers. The owners will freeze ice packs and groceries can be ordered in advance. Downside: an area next to the site strewn with farm equipment isn't all that visually appealing.

OFF SITE A mountain bike trail runs across the farm and there are more in Mortimer Forest, which is also home to bridleways and, for walkers, both the Herefordshire Trail and the new Mortimer Trail (see www.ldwa.org.uk).



FOOD AND DRINK Two really good pubs in the area: the Riverside (01568 708440) at Aymestry with posh nosh and beer garden, and the Royal George (01544 267322) at Lingen.

GETTING THERE Follow directions to Whitcliffe (see p205) and Monstay Farm is 2 miles further up the road.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Train to Ludlow, then taxi (£6).

OPEN Easter-late October (weather dependent).

THE DAMAGE Tent: adult £5.50 per night; child (5 to 16 years) £1.50, under-5s free. Caravan: £10; hook-up £3.