The campsite's two glamping abodes are a perfect place to return to after a hard day's yomping across the hills: each tent has two bedrooms furnished with proper beds and a kitchenette with hob, microwave and fridge and all the pots, crockery and cutlery you need. There's also a comfy living area with sofas and an outdoor terrace to enjoy while you contemplate the heroic exploits of your day, as well as planning the next one.
It’s an easy stroll to Barnard Castle – or 'Barney' as it's known locally – where you can visit the fabulous castle (yes, it has one!), amble about its ancient streets and visit the unusually rich collection of the local Bowes Museum, which is housed in a preposterous French-style chateau that is an attraction in itself.
Beyond the town, there are walking and cycling routes galore, either heading south into the Yorkshire Dales National Park or in the other direction, into Teesdale, Durham and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you will find High Force, one of England's largest waterfalls.
A fish and chip van visits the site, but in any case it's just a short walk into town where you'll find plenty of pubs and restaurants to choose from. We like the Old Well Inn (01833 690130), which always has a great selection of ales, does good food and has a beer garden backing onto the castle's walls. Blagraves House (01833 637668) is perhaps the town's best restaurant, with a comfy dining room and a lounge bar with log fire.
