Cool Place of the Day: The Quiet Site, Cumbria

This hideaway camspite above Ullswater is a real family favourite, set amid the fells on an old Cumbrian farmstead, with dramatic views to all sides. It has pitches for caravans and campervans, grassy pitches for tents, and a number of timber-built pods, which offer more comfort and weather protection than mere canvas – all you need to bring is your camping gear, minus the tent.

Their eco-hearts are in the right place too, manifest in their unique "Hobbit Holes", large underground living spaces with awesome views that are insulated and energy-efficient, and virtually invisible unless you know where to look; they can accommodate up to six people and some also take dogs, plus they have their own separate WCs and basins.

The site's water is solar-heated and they have a specially created wildflower meadow. while also boasting what they describe as "the best campsite bar in Britain". Quite a claim, but we like what they've done with the converted 18th-century Cumbrian long barn, from the toasty wood-burning fireplace to local ales on offer at the bar.

There's a shop on site too, while children get the run of an adventure playground, playroom and games room – or you can wear them out on local walks right from the campsite, including the one to Aira Force waterfall. Ullswater itself is a mile and a half down the hill, with the nearest pub the Brackenrigg Inn (at the turn-off for the campsite) – a good bet for bar meals.

Cool Places is a new website from the creators of Rough Guides and Cool Camping, suggesting the best places to stay, eat, drink and shop in Britain (coolplaces.co.uk).