Sitting atop the North Pennine's, Highside Farm's smallholding has only five pitches, so its miniature size almost guarantees you'll have plenty of peace and quiet. And if that isn't enough to whet your appetite, the extensive views from your tent across the valley to Lunedale andTeesdale surely will.

Talking of appetite, the site's owners, Richard and Stephanie, also run a working farm specialising in raisingTeeswater sheep and Shorthorn cattle. And what the farm sows, you can reap. All the farm-produced meat is available for your campsite stove and dining pleasure. And, when the chickens aren't on strike, there are fresh eggs to be had, too. But if cooking sounds like far too much effort, you can place an order for breakfast the next day — anything from bacon sandwiches to a Full English can be rustled up.

Richard and Stephanie have succeeded in creating a campsite true to what they love about camping. No security barriers, packed-out camping fields, or rules and regulations; just good views, a rural setting, nice walks, and that back-to-nature feeling. With a sprinkling of good local food on top.

COOL FACTOR Miniature rural site with tasty farm treats.

WHO'S IN? Campervans, caravans, dogs - yes. Groups, no.

ON SITE A maximum of 10 allowed on site. The single hot shower and solitary WC sit inside a traditional farm building along with a washing-up sink; an additional loo is on the site. There are 2 hook-ups (£2.50). No campfires, but BBQs okay.



OFF SITE The Pennine Way is a short stroll away, or you can head to High Force, Britain's largest waterfall. Staindrop's Raby Castle (01833 660202; www.rabycastle.com) has a fantastic art collection and lavish grounds.

FOOD AND DRINK In addition to the seasonal offerings at Highside Farm, grab yourself some local Cotherstone cheese, named after a village in Teesdale. It's available from the Middleton-in-Teesdale farmers' market (the first Sunday of the month) or from Armitages (01833 640226) in Middleton-in-Teesdaie.The Rose and Crown (01833 650213) in Romaldkirk is only a 10-minute drive from the campsite, boasting high-quality service and meals you wish you had at home.

GETTING THERE Take the A685 towards Brough, then the B6276.The site is 2 miles away from Middleton-in-Teesdale, on your right.

OPEN May-September.

THE DAMAGE £8 per person, per night; under-4s half price.