This is a lovely site that is kept in top condition by the two wardens. The toilet block is modern and clean and the whole site is kept in good condition. The dog walk/nature walk that leads down by the river is perfect for dog owners, but if you turn right out of the site you come to Branton Lakes where you can walk further. Its a bit overgrown, but quieter during busy times. For shopping, theres a garage and shop on the main road that is ok for essentials, but Alnwick is only 10 miles away where you have Sainsburys, Aldi and Lidl. Try to avoid the town centre at busy times though...nightmare! The coastline is fantastic, and a 45 minute drive gets you to Seahouses and Bambrough. The castle is certainly worth visiting, and not stupidly expensive either. 20 minutes back towards Newcastle you get National Trust Cragside which is simply stunning. Theres a 6 mile drive around the gardens with car parks if you want to get out into the park The weather hasn't been as kind to us here, but it hasn't dampened our enthusiasm for the site