Pindale Farm

As you travel to Pindale Farm you'll swing around corners and be presented with views that'll move you to turn the air blue with wonder. As you get a little closer your spirits may be dampened by a large cement works that sits near the site, but once there you'll barely know it exists. Ironically, despite this nearby blot, Peak District building regulations mean all structures on site are restricted to the original farm buildings, meaning you could shower in a barn and bunk in a powder house dating back from the site's days as a lead mine. Thanks to this thoughtful renovation it's easy to wander the site and look across the hills and picture, somewhat accurately, what this was all like five hundred years ago. Completing this bucolic ideal is the site's location at the end of a winding lane looking out towards the awesome Mam Tor. Unzipping the tent and drinking in that view is more than enough to give you that extra push each morning to break camp and head for the hills.

Indeed the focus is very much on getting out amongst it, with Pindale a popular base for climbing, caving, biking and other outdoor excursions; owner Alan is a genuine expert on the area and a friendly, helpful host. For a more leisurely day, Castleton with its nickname of the 'Gem of the Peaks' is worth visiting and just two miles down the road. The site is popular with groups and DofE expeditions, but its three fields mean disturbance is kept to a minimum. The main camping meadow is perfectly level and bordered by some cleverly planted trees. One honest note: the site runs large groups, so at the busiest times the modest toilet and shower blocks can feel stretched, though they're kept clean and the showers are free and hot.