Beechfield Park

Beechfield Park is a proper working football ground in County Durham, home to a Wearside Football League side. It's not Stamford Bridge - think grassroots football done seriously, with proper stands and a clubhouse where locals gather on match days. The pitch itself is well-maintained, and there's a genuine community feel that you won't find at bigger stadiums.

This is squarely for football enthusiasts rather than casual day-trippers. If you're into non-league football or want to catch a genuine local match without the corporate madness, it's worth the visit. Families with young footballers often enjoy it too - there's something honest about watching proper football at this level. Allow an hour or so for a match, maybe grab a drink in the clubhouse before or after.

Details on admission and opening hours aren't consistently listed online, so ring ahead or check the Wearside Football League website before heading out. It's only five miles from Durham, making it convenient if you're staying at Donnewell Farm Caravan and Motorhome Club or Castledene Holiday Park nearby.

Timing-wise, you'll want a match day for the full experience. Going on a non-match day feels a bit pointless - it's just an empty ground. Part of the appeal here is the atmosphere and the people, not the stadium itself.