Life at Proctor's Stead – Finding More Than Just a Place to Stay
"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, 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 in future blogs.
The Start of Something New
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.
The plan is simple.
Every Tuesday and Wednesday I'll be working here as a warden, helping to look after this wonderful park and meeting visitors from all over the UK and beyond.
Then, for the remaining five days each week, once my leg has healed enough for me to comfortably drive longer distances again, Nancy, Gracie and Sasha will be heading off to explore.
We'll be visiting caravan parks, campsites, holiday parks, hidden villages, dog-friendly beaches, scenic walks, country pubs and all those wonderful places that don't always make it into the guidebooks.
I'll be sharing honest reviews, practical tips, photographs and plenty of adventures along the way, hoping to inspire others to get out and explore this beautiful country.
Who knows... perhaps one day I'll be reviewing your favourite campsite too!
🌿 Wendy's Wander Rating
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
I feel incredibly lucky that this is where the next chapter of my life is unfolding.
If you're staying here on a Tuesday or Wednesday and happen to spot a lady in a hospital boot being enthusiastically walked by two Cocker Spaniels... that's probably me!
Please do come and say hello. I'd love to meet you.
And if you'd like to find out more about Proctor's Stead Caravan Park, take a look at their website or follow them on Facebook for the latest news, updates and availability.
Thank you for pulling up a chair and spending a little time with me today.
Until next time...
Happy wandering.
❤️ Wendy, Nancy, Gracie & Sasha
