Autumn: a magical time where the light changes, the air feels fresh and crisp, and the landscape is transformed with autumn’s gold, amber and crimson spell.
While the days of al fresco dining and basking in summer’s glorious sunshine may be behind us, the dawn of a new season brings new beauty and wonders, just waiting to be explored. From frosty rambles through fallen leaves to spectacular sunsets and opportunities to gaze at the galaxy, here are six ways you can experience the very best this season has to offer, and all from within reach of Matfen Hall.
Immerse yourself in nature
Home to a staggeringly beautiful countryside, stretches of dramatic coastline and world-famous historic monuments, Northumberland boasts a treasure trove of tourist attractions just waiting to be explored. While these sites are stunning all year round, they offer something particularly magical during the autumn months.
For those keen to step off the beaten track, this season presents the perfect opportunity to dust off your walking boots and explore the great outdoors.
While the heather has long past its purple, honey-scented best, and the curlew (the emblem of Northumberland National Park) have long begun their winter voyage, the Cheviot Hills remains a spectacular spot to visit throughout October.
The air is clear, and the landscape is alight with warm hues of orange and copper brown. Buzzards circle overhead and roe deer can be seen bounding across the still, frosty skyline.
Whether you opt for life in the fast lane and embark on a challenging hiking, or prefer a quieter pace of adventure; roaming the lakesides and crashing waterfalls, or watching as the otters play from the riverbank; the Cheviot Hills are brimming with seasonal experiences for the whole family to enjoy.
Experience a sunset like no other
Northumberland’s sunrises and sunsets are always a spectacular sight, but in autumn, they become truly magical. When the sun is low and the air is clear, sweeping shades of pink, orange and yellow illuminate the sky like never before.
So, during your stay with us, why not wake up early, wrap up warm and journey to our beautiful coastline and begin your day with an awe-inspiring sunrise, then join us back at the Emerald Restaurant to settle your appetite with a delicious lunch.
Or, if early mornings aren’t your forte, spend the day relaxing with a spa treatment in The Retreat, before heading inland to enjoy Northumberland’s endless adventures and watch as the evening sun dips, and the horizon begins to glow.
Catch a glimpse of Northumberland’s wildlife
You would be forgiven to think that observing wildlife was best left to the spring and summer months, however, Northumberland’s wild side continues to surprise during the autumn months too.
With birds passing through our region during the autumnal migration, places like Lindisfarne Nature Reserve, Newton by the Sea and Coquet Estuary become a bird watcher’s paradise.
Catch a glimpse of vivacious red squirrels scurrying as they gather nuts ahead of the North East’s cold winter or take a boat trip from Sea Houses to see the first fuzzy-haired seal pups arrive on The Farne Islands – you may even be one of the lucky few to spot our resident pool of dolphins!
Explore a rich and colourful history
Home to more castles than any other English county, Northumberland is truly a historian’s dream.
With over 70 castles in the area – from famous fortresses like Bamburgh, to Chillingham’s ghostly grounds, opulent state rooms and romantic ruins such as Dunstanburgh and Warkworth Castle – our region’s past presents a wealth of history, just waiting to be discovered.
When the weather is less than kind, spend the morning visiting one of our regions many indoor historical attractions, from spell-binding Alnwick Castle to the beautiful Belsay Hall and enchanting Cragside House. As afternoon arrives, we invite you to sit back and relax with a wonderful selection of sweet and savoury bites as you indulge in a classic British Afternoon Tea in our stunning surroundings.
Witness a stunning light display
Northumberland is a place of rare beauty, day and night.
Forget Iceland and Norway – with the second largest area of protected night sky in Europe, Northumberland is the perfect place to experience a spectacular natural light display.
Enjoy gazing the cosmos at Kielder Observatory or watching the Aurora Borealis dance over Hadrian’s Wall, painting the inky-black skies with shades of green, purple and blue, before retiring to one of our luxury bar areas – 1832 or Needham – for a nightcap.
Indulge in a touch of luxury
Positioned between the rush of the summer holidays and the beginning of Christmas shopping, Autumn brings with it a welcome period of rest and calm – a time to escape the crowds, pack your bags and indulge in a peaceful, luxurious getaway.
To secure your October stay, book your Northumberland break at Matfen Hall, today.