Bank House Farm Caravan and Camping Park

As you near Bank House Farm, humming Heartbeat, each passing village becomes more idyllic than the last and you'll wish the site to rear into view so you can stop here. Don't worry, when it does arrive it's perfect. Bank House Farm is divided into two gently undulating fields with the River Manifold lazily meandering around their outskirts. The river makes the two sides feel part of one site, offers fishing and that wonderful feeling of sleeping near water, but even better is the pub that shares its name.

Sitting between the two fields, the Manifold Inn is a beauty. With good food and ales a stone's throw and an idyllic location, there is plenty to say for just staying on site. The friendly welcome, the clean and spacious hot showers, and a little shop for essentials all keep things easy once you're pitched. From your tent you might spot birds including sparrow hawks, owls and kingfishers, and keep an eye on the river for trout flashing by.

But what makes Bank House Farm a must see is that the local area offers even more. Set in the beautiful hamlet of Hulme End, an afternoon can be spent meandering around local lanes. If you're feeling more energetic, the Manifold Valley cycle and walking trail starts right by the site and follows an old railway nine miles to the village of Waterhouses. Head up to Thor's (don't tell the kids but it's not the Avenger's) cave at Manifold Valley for amazing views across the hills before heading back to the Manifold Inn for a well earned ale.