Okay, first things first. Leekworth accepts motorhomes and touring
caravans. But as you pitch next to the historic River Tees, amidst buttercup
meadows and the remote, unspoilt surroundings of the Pennines, you soon realise
that despite first impressions Leekworth Caravan Park cannot help being a cool
place to camp.
First job, where to pitch? Luckily finding somewhere to camp on this
spacious site is easy. The main field is split by a grassy road, with the top-half
closest to the brand new, and spotlessly clean showers, sinks and
toilets. Through the gate (at the other end of the field) is a smaller,
triangular field specifically designated for campers of the canvas kind. This
field is a real lifesaver when mother nature gets herself in a bad mood,
sheltering visitors from what can be some serious northern winds.
The surrounding area is simply beautiful and deservedly popular with the
walking community. Leekworth is located directly on the Teesdale Way; a stunning
100 mile walk which follows the banks of the meandering River Tees (from its source in
Dufton), passing the remote moorlands of Cumbria and into the industrial
landscapes of Teeside, providing a fascinating insight into the once proud ship
building heritage of the North East.
Leekworth is the sort of site that ticks so many different boxes. It
works for those wanting to get away from it all, those wanting the challenge of
the Teesdale Way, or for those wanting to discover some of England’s finest
castles, villages and museums. You don’t need to be eagle eyed to spot the
charm of County Durham, and Leekworth is the perfect base to go and explore it all.