Sometimes Home Isn't a Place… It's the People Who Make You Feel Welcome
Sometimes life takes you somewhere you never expected to be.
A year ago, I certainly didn't imagine I'd be living on a beautiful caravan park in Northumberland, working as a warden two days each week while rebuilding my life and planning new adventures in Nancy, my motorhome.
Yet here I am at Proctor's Stead Caravan Park, and I genuinely couldn't have wished for a better place to begin this exciting new chapter.
From the moment I arrived, one thing stood out above everything else – how incredibly well maintained the park is. The grounds are immaculate, the facilities are spotless, and it's obvious that an enormous amount of pride goes into keeping everything looking its very best.
Working here every Tuesday and Wednesday has given me the chance to chat to so many guests, and one comment comes up time and time again:
"We love it here. We'll definitely be back!"
After spending time here, I completely understand why.
Some families have been coming to Proctor's Stead for many years, returning season after season because they simply wouldn't stay anywhere else. In fact, seasonal pitches are always in high demand, which says everything about the reputation the park has built over the years.
My Warden Journey… With a Twist!
My first two days as a warden went exactly as planned…
…and then I broke my leg!
So instead of confidently striding around the park, I've spent the last few weeks hobbling about in a rather glamorous hospital boot.
Thankfully, everyone has been incredibly kind and understanding, especially the owners, Derek and Viv, who have been wonderfully supportive while I've found my feet… or perhaps I should say, my foot!
The funniest part of my day is taking Gracie and Sasha for their walks. With two enthusiastic Cocker Spaniels leading the way, I'm often laughing as they happily pull me along. I like to think they're helping me recover rather than trying to set a new speed record on one leg!
One thing I really appreciate is that dogs are exercised off the park. It helps keep the grounds beautifully clean and enjoyable for everyone, while there are plenty of lovely walks just outside the entrance for our four-legged companions.
A Warm Welcome Every Time
One thing I've noticed is how friendly everyone is.
Whether it's the owners, fellow wardens or guests, there's a genuine sense of community here.
I work alongside Graham on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, while Helen and Mark look after the park for the remaining five days of the week. Together they make a fantastic team, and it's easy to see why guests receive such a warm welcome from the moment they arrive.
It's peaceful, welcoming and exactly the sort of place where you can leave the stresses of everyday life behind.
You can tell that people enjoy staying here, not just because they tell me, but because so many of them return year after year.
Everything You Need on Your Doorstep
Another feature I really appreciate is the park shop.
It's one of those little extras that makes a big difference when you're away from home.
Whether you've forgotten the batteries, run out of milk, fancy a sweet treat or need bacon and eggs for breakfast, you'll probably find what you're looking for.
The shop is well stocked with everyday essentials and little treats, meaning you don't always have to jump in the car if you've forgotten something.
It's just another example of the thought that's gone into making guests' stays as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.
Just One Mile from Beautiful Craster
One of the biggest attractions has to be the location.
The picturesque fishing village of Craster is just one mile away and has quickly become one of my favourite places to visit.
Whether you fancy a stroll around the harbour, watching the fishing boats come and go or simply breathing in the fresh sea air, it's a wonderful place to spend a few hours.
And then there's The Jolly Fisherman.
Its huge terrace overlooks the North Sea and is the perfect place to enjoy lunch or simply sit with a drink while taking in the spectacular views.
If you're lucky, you may even spot dolphins or seals playing offshore.
It's one of those magical moments that reminds you just how special the Northumberland coastline really is.
The Perfect Base for Exploring Northumberland
Proctor's Stead is perfectly placed for discovering some of Northumberland's most beautiful places.
Within easy reach are magnificent castles, endless sandy beaches, dramatic coastal walks, charming villages and an abundance of wildlife.
As you'll soon discover, Gracie and Sasha come everywhere with me, so you'll be seeing plenty of dog-friendly walks, beaches, cafés and hidden gems featured throughout Wendy Wanders.
The Start of Many Adventures
For me, Proctor's Stead has become so much more than a caravan park.
It's become my home while I begin an exciting new adventure.
Every Tuesday and Wednesday you'll find me here, helping to look after this wonderful park and meeting visitors from all over the UK.
Then, for the rest of the week, Nancy, Sasha and I will be heading off to discover Britain's hidden gems.
We'll be exploring caravan parks, campsites, coastal villages, dog-friendly beaches, scenic walks, country pubs and those wonderful places that don't always make it into the guidebooks.
Along the way I'll be sharing honest reviews, practical tips, photography and plenty of stories here on Wendy Wanders.
As those adventures grow, so will Woodfin Travel, where I'll be bringing together a carefully chosen collection of places to stay that I'd genuinely recommend. If somewhere appears on Woodfin Travel, it's because I believe it offers a wonderful base from which to explore.
Every journey starts somewhere.
I'm delighted mine begins here.
⭐ Wendy's Wander Score
Overall Experience
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
🐾 Dog Friendly
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dogs are exercised off the park, keeping the site beautifully clean while providing plenty of nearby walks.
😴 Peace & Quiet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A wonderfully peaceful park where guests respect each other and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
🚿 Facilities & Cleanliness
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Immaculate. Everything is exceptionally well maintained and cared for.
📍 Location
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just one mile from Craster and perfectly positioned for exploring the stunning Northumberland coastline.
🛒 On-site Shop
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Brilliant for everyday essentials, from milk and bacon to batteries, snacks, eggs and those little things you didn't realise you'd forgotten.
❤️ Would I Return?
Without hesitation.
☕ My Favourite Moment
Watching guests relax into their holiday while enjoying the sea views from The Jolly Fisherman… and laughing as Gracie and Sasha enthusiastically tow me around the park in my hospital boot!
💚 Best For
Couples, families, dog owners, walkers, nature lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful, beautifully maintained base from which to explore Northumberland.
Final Thoughts
If you're planning a visit to Northumberland, I can genuinely recommend adding Proctor's Stead to your shortlist.
Whether you're looking for peace and quiet, beautiful surroundings or the perfect base from which to explore the coastline, it really is a special place.
In time, you'll also be able to discover parks and places like this through Woodfin Travel, where I'll be sharing accommodation that I've personally visited, experienced or wholeheartedly recommend.
If you're staying here on a Tuesday or Wednesday and happen to spot a lady in a hospital boot (hopefully not for much longer!) being enthusiastically walked by two Cocker Spaniels… that's probably me!
Please do come and say hello.
I'd love to meet you.
Thank you for pulling up a chair and spending a little time with me today.
Until next time…
Happy wandering.
❤️ Wendy, Nancy, Gracie & Sasha