This site is delightful in its simplicity: a working farm that breeds pedigree Swaledale sheep in a particularly isolated area of the Yorkshire Dales.

While the farm and house sit atop a steep hill, the campsite is nestled down by the River Swale. There's a large field set aside for tents, ringed by a protective stone wall, and another area right next to the river. There are no ablutions facilities, but water comes from the farm's own natural spring supply. You can buy free-range eggs when the farm's hens are laying and - the best bit - campfires are allowed.

Not only is the setting lovely, but the drive to get here, along narrow country lanes lined with old drystone walls and punctuated with placid farms and remote villages, is highly scenic too. In fact, the whole area is gorgeous. From nearby Keld you can access walks aplenty, including the 192-mile Coast to Coast hike that passes through three contrasting national parks. Or just relax near the river and enjoy the peace and quiet.You'll likely see more wildlife than people, and the glorious lack of phone reception means you won't be tempted to make any calls or download your emails.

COOL FACTOR Wild camping in the Yorkshire Dales.

WHO'S IN? Tents, campervans, caravans, well-behaved dogs - yes. Groups - by arrangement.



ON SITE Not much! Just the opportunity to buy eggs from the farm, a tap for drinking water, and a lovely river to sit by and light up your very own campfire (a limited supply of logs can be bought from the farmhouse).

OFF SITE Low Mill Outdoor Centre (01969 650432) offers adventurous outdoor activities to people of all ages. Aysgarth Falls (see www.thefalls-aysgarthfalls.com) is a spectacular triple-drop waterfall situated in a lovely wooded gorge on the River Ure - lots of well-marked walks around here, too.

FOOD AND DRINK There are no shops in Keld, but it does have a lovely lodge (01748 886259), which has a friendly bar, great views, and serves quality food made from local produce. Kirkby Stephen has the characterful Acoustic Tearoom (01768 372123) - offering live music and dinner before the show (you can bring your own wine).

GETTING THERE Like Park House (see p255), Swaledale Camping is off the B6270. Head towards Kirkby Stephen, past the turn-off for Tan Hill pub, and the site is 1 mile further.

OPEN March-October.

THE DAMAGE Small tent £3 per night; large tent £5.