The 10 best campsites in the North East according to TripAdvisor including one renowned for luxury glamping
While many people will be heading away on exotic holidays this summer, others will be headed to their favourite campsite for a couple of nights under the stars
by Aaron Morris · ChronicleLiveSpring has sprung and we're slowly but surely waving goodbye to a ruthless winter across the North East of England.
Many people will be ready to get out and about when the sun starts to shine, visiting their favourite parks and beaches to catch a t-shirt tan and have fun with friends.
And while many will have no doubt booked their summer holidays and are set to spend a week or two away on golden beaches, the cost of living crisis means that many people won't have the same luxury this year. But don't fret, as there are a number of cheap and cheerful staycations to make the most of with family and friends if you can't quite afford that ticket to Marbella.
And who knows, you might even have more fun on home soil!
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Many people still opt for camping holidays when the spring and summer roll around. Not only are they cost-effective, but they offer people a couple of nights under the stars, an abundance of greenery, and a sense of comradery and closeness you simply won't find on a two-week all inclusive deal.
And North East residents won't even have to travel too far to find a campsite either, with a number of fan favourites right on our very doorstep. Here, ChronicleLive breaks down the ten best campsites across the region according to TripAdvisor reviews.
10) Riverside Leisure Park
South Road, Wooler, NE71 6NJ - 4/5 based on 695 reviews
Deep into the Northumberland countryside lays the Riverside Leisure Park, which offers vast views of the famous Wooler Water. Combining a woodland setting with an abundance of wildlife, the grounds provide a prime place for people looking for an authentic trip in nature. Make the most of a caravan or lodge, or even book a pitching spot.
One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: "Really nice and welcoming Scott, Cameron, Anya and the rest of the team was really welcoming. Martin and the new man was nice with a range of food options. Lots of entertainment for the younger kids throughout the day and live acts later on at night."
9) Heather View
Stanhope, Bishop Auckland, DL13 2PS - 4.5/5 based on 84 reviews
Sitting just a few miles from Stanhope, Heather View is a rural retreat in the heart of the Durham Dales which offers self-catering accommodation - as well as a range of affordable holiday homes. Make the most of a pet-friendly caravan or hot tub lodge, dine down at the Riverview Bar and Grill, and get lost in the woodland walks that the park has to offer.
One recent reviewer wrote: "This was our 3rd stay at Heather View and it was another fab little break away! We stayed in a pet friendly caravan at The Acorns and it was spotless had everything we needed and the little welcome pack was a lovely touch.
"The kids loved being outdoors near the river and the also spending time in the park, bit disappointed the bar/restaurant wasn't open this year through the week though but didn't spoil our stay. Will definitely be back again in the future."
8) Parkdean resorts - Cresswell Towers
Cresswell Road, Cresswell, NE61 5JT - 4/5 based on 1,478 reviews
Sitting by Druridge Bay is the Cresswell Towers holiday park, which offers 'wandering walks, shimmering sands and easy on-site entertainment'. The bay is a stone's throw away, allowing visitors to explore exciting rock pools and golden sands, while the Northumberland countryside offers fantastic walks through nature. There's a Boathouse Bar on site, as well as an indoor heated pool, so plenty to see and do.
One reviewer said: "Great place for a family holiday, we had a great time, the staff were great and helpful. Our caravan was lovely too, it's got great entertainment for kids during the day and night Ryan and Louise were the kids favourites and we would go back definitely."
7) Sycamore Cottage
1 Front Street, Barrasford, NE48 4AG - 5/5 based on 117 reviews
From a stunning secluded retreat to luxurious glamping cabins, you'll find it all at Sycamore Cottage in Barrasford. You'll see wildlife like barn owls, deer, hares and swallows - as the 'forever changing seasons bring new delights'. Set in the heart of Northumberland, you'll be able to roam the rolling countryside, capture dramatic coastlines and even see wondrous waterfalls during your stay.
One reviewer wrote: "Lovely clean pod with everything you will need and also Easter eggs and activities pack for my girls. Outdoor bath was amazing even in the rain lovely and hot. My girls enjoy meeting all the new lambs we also saw an owl which they enjoyed we will definitely be back."
6) Haven - Berwick
Magdalene Fields, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 1NE - 4/5 based on 1,749 reviews
Berwick's Haven holiday park is one of the best that the North East has to offer in terms of breath-taking views and rural Northumberland nature. While the star of the show is the surrounding greenery and coastline, there's plenty to do and see on site two - including two heated pools, an array of activities, and a number of fantastic on-park restaurants.
One reviewer raved: "Just returned from a great weekend at Haven Berwick. The site itself is small but has everything you need to keep the kids entertained all weekend even with the rainy weather we had. Some activities are at an extra charge but well worth the money. The magic makers and build a bear were a big hit.
"The animation staff are amazing, from morning till night they put on really good shows and go out of their way to chat and have fun with all the kids. Caravan was basic but very clean and had everything we needed and was in a great location close to the club house."
5) Parkdean Resorts - Sandy Bay
North Seaton, Ashington, NE63 9YD - 4/5 based on 2,018 reviews
The TripAdvisor description reads: "Soak up the sun, sea or the scenery from the clifftops at Sandy Bay Holiday Park in Ashington. Morning walks couldn’t be easier with access straight from the park. Kids big or small can take full advantage of exploring the rock pools or building sandcastles.
"Better yet, with the sun, sea and sands of Blyth and Whitley Bay a Beach ball throw away – you’ll never be bored!"
Sandy Bay offers a taste of true Northern culture, coupled with everything you could ever want from a happy holiday park. Make the most of a plethora of on-site entertainment including a heated pool, adventure playground, bar, restaurant and amusement arcade.
One reviewer said: "Absolutely amazing holiday with family. Lovely staff! Especially Mandy in the boat house! She’s absolutely great and an asset to Parkdean. Food was absolutely gorgeous and served quickly and hot. Mandy’s mocha she made was the best my niece has ever had."
4) Springhill Farm
Springhill Farm, Seahouses, NE68 7UR - 4.5/5 based on 1,431 reviews
Pet-friendly accommodation seated on the lush Northumberland coastline, Springhill Farm offers easy access to both Seahouses and Bamburgh. Take in the sweep of incredible sea views out to the Farne Islands, picture Bamburgh Castle in all its glory, and peer out onto the Cheviot Hills in this stunning holiday accommodation. Choose from Wigwams, lodges, cottages and even a touring site to make the most of your trip.
One reviewer wrote: "Just returned from a two night stay in one of the lovely en-suite glamping pods at Springhill Farm (Pod 11). Lovely pod which is not overlooked at the front with great views out to sea. Clean pod with everything you need for a comfortable stay."
3) Pot a Doodle Doo
Borewell Farm Scremerston, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 2RJ - 4.5/5 based on 577 reviews
Seated on a working farm just two miles from Berwick, the Pot a Doodle Doo wigwam village is ideal for couples, families and groups. Walk the stunning Northumberland countryside, see some of the most picture perfect beaches available, and make the most of countless amenities on site including a cafe/bistro, country shop, interactive art centre, and children's play area among more.
One happy customer exclaimed: "We have just returned from Pot a Doodle as a family of 4 with our family dog. There is a Pot a Doodle app to download which was extremely helpful and made the check in and check out process so smooth. We stayed in Apache pod and it was extremely clean!
"The kitchen facilities were on point. Microwaves, toasters, kettles, cookers, iron, washing facilities. Everything for a camping holiday you would need."
2) Parkdean Resorts - Whitley Bay
Blyth Road The Links, Whitley Bay NE26 4RR - 4/5 based on 1,991 reviews
The third and final Parkdean Resort on this list, the firm's Whitley Bay park definitely does not disappoint. Dubbed 'the perfect destination for family and friends alike', the views from Saint Mary's Lighthouse will guide you along shimmering sands and gentle seas. Make the most of an indoor heated pool, outdoor play area, never-ending nature reserve and fantastic coastal walks, as well as much, much more.
One punter said: "Just got back from a lovely weekend from the Park Dean Whitley Bay site. Entertainment was really good and AJ was amazing with our young ones. Accommodation was great and very clean. We had a great meal and want to give a shout out to George who helped with our fussy children. Nothing was too much trouble for him."
1) Herding Hill Farm
Shield Hill, Haltwhistle, NE49 9NW - 4.5/5 based on 617 reviews
Taking the number one spot on TripAdvisor's list is none other than the Herding Hill Farm - a dog-friendly AA Platinum rated touring, camping and glamping site in Haltwhistle. Open year-round in an idyllic spot, Hadrian's Wall is just a mile away, light work for hiking fans and those who love a stroll in the country. There's also a Dark Sky Friendly Park which is perfect for stargazers camping in rural Northumberland.
Day trips to the Lake District, Scottish Borders, Kielder, North Pennines and the Northumberland coast aren't too far away either, and that's not to mention the abundance of activity to be had in the nearby towns of Haltwhistle, Corbridge and Hexham.
What's your favourite camping spot across the North East? Let us know in the comments.
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