Allensford Country Park

The River Derwent cuts through this stretch of woodland just outside Consett, and Allensford Country Park gives you proper access to it - the kind of place where you can actually get down to the water rather than just peer at it from a distance. It's a nature reserve that works hard without showing off: wooded riverbanks, open grassland, footpaths that meander without demanding too much effort. The river itself is the real draw here, especially if you're into spotting wildlife or just need somewhere quiet to think.

Walkers will find it worthwhile. The paths are easy going, well-maintained, and the woodland offers decent shelter if the weather turns typical for the North East. You're looking at an hour or so for a proper wander if you don't rush. Families with younger kids won't get bored provided the children are keen on mucking about near water - but this isn't a destination with facilities or activities laid on. It's honest-to-goodness countryside.

With Allensford Holiday Park sitting practically on the doorstep, it's an obvious choice if you're camping in the area. The other parks - Hidden Retreat Glamping, Haystax, Manor Park - are all within a few miles, making this a natural bolt-on to a week's base camp around Consett. Come when it's not raining and the paths aren't saturated; spring and early autumn work best. Free to wander, no nonsense about it.