Demesne Farm's patch of flat green sits on the outskirts of the sleepy, blink-and-you'll-miss-it village of Bellingham. In fact, it's the location of this rural retreat coupled with having the Pennine Way right on the doorstep that make it so popular. Demesne Farm is first and foremost a haven for walkers and cyclists who, after a long day spent tackling the Pennines, need a pastoral pillow on which to rest their weary heads. The campsite isn't large — just one field given over to campers — but it feels bigger as it looks out over a wide expanse of rural England that glows golden as the sun falls. And to those weary walkers, it's heaven. Over the busy summer months an overflow field is opened to maintain the harmonious balance at Demesne Farm. And what a farm it is; real rustic characteristics and smells alongside the resident animals.You'll notice that they're completely unperturbed by the presence of campers - especially the inquisitive brood of chickens. They'll scrabble around your guy ropes and take a peck out of everything in reach, but it's these feathered touches that make Demesne Farm such a firm favourite of all who visit there.

COOL FACTOR Comfort on the Pennine Way's doorstep.

WHO'S IN? Tents, campervans, caravans, motorhomes, dogs (on leads) - yes. Single-sex/multiple family groups - no.

ON SITE Approx. 30 pitches; 2 blocks (1W, 1M) with hot showers (50p for 6 minutes). Washing-up facilities and CDP. Quiet time 1O.30pm-7.3Oam. BBQs allowed off the ground if cleared immediately afterwards. No campfires.

OFF SITE The closest and main attraction is Kielder Water & Forest Park (01434 220616) - the largest man-made lake and planted forest in Northern Europe. Wander the historic streets of Hexham and Bellingham.



FOOD AND DRINK The picks of the pub crop are the Black Bull (01434 220226) and the Rose & Crown (01434 220202). Nearby Hexham's farmers' market has a BBQ-tastic selection of fresh organic meat and veg.

GETTING THERE Take the A6079 to Chollerford and join the B6320 to Bellingham. In Bellingham, turn right at Lloyds TSB bank and the campsite is 100 metres down, on the right.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT From Hexham train station jump on bus no. 880 to Bellingham.

OPEN May-October/November.

THE DAMAGE Tent plus 1 or 2 people and a car £8/£12 per night. Extra adult £5; child (4 to 15 years) £3, under-3s free.