Well the title reflects what we anticipated. And indeed the A1(M) is visible through the trees in places and the background noise is evident except during the small hours but this site has many attributes. It is within easy distance of many local attractions including the Durham coast. It is very convenient for Durham, helped by the Park and Ride being about 500yds from the site. £2 return. The site is clean and tidy as ever and the wardens have placed planted pots to add colour to the site. We spent a week here and I have booked to come back in November. The site is popular with one night stayers breaking their journeys but I would recommend coming to stay a while. And yes, you can hear the birds singing.  There is a lovely play area for the children and a nice dog walk.