Autumn has arrived in our part of the world and Northumberland is transformed, its moorlands, hilltops and forests now a jewel-box of rich and lustrous colour, sparkling in the pale copper light. This sunset season is the perfect time to visit Northumberland, and with October Half Term little over a month away – what better time to plan your next family holiday?
Crisp woodland walks, high-ropes challenges, coastal castle adventures and spooky Halloween fun – there’s so much to see and do in Northumberland, we’ve compiled a guide to your October Half Term break. And, nestled in the heart of the region, our country house hotel is the perfect base for the whole family to explore and enjoy the best of our historic border county. Return from each wild day out to relax in 5 star splendour and let us cater to your every need, with young hotel guests dining for free during half term.
Family Fun On The Estate
You don’t have to go far to find something for the whole family to enjoy at Matfen Hall. Head to The Keepers in our parkland grounds to battle it out over a fun penalty shoot-out in our multi-sport simulator studio. Once the winner has been crowned, reward yourselves with a well-earned lunch at The Keepers Restaurant & Bar. With a children’s menu, small plates, wood-fired pizza and a truly tempting dessert selection, there’s something for everyone, including activity packs to keep little ones entertained while grown-ups take in spectacular views of the estate
Still feeling energetic? Take time out to stroll our beautiful grounds, following our Halloween Trail to explore different areas of our historic gardens and woodland, learn fun facts and have some spooky fun together! And walking distance from Matfen Hall is Go Ape, the multi-award winning and original forest adventure. Daredevils will love a session on the zip wires, tarzan swings, rope ladders and more during this high-octane tree tops challenge.
If you’re ready to relax, our harmonious spa is the perfect place. With family friendly times between 8am -10am and 5pm – 7pm, everyone can cosy up in robes and enjoy some time poolside. Or take time to unwind in true luxury in your family suite. Choose from one large room or interconnecting rooms – with a separate room for up to two children, offering them a little independence and you the peace of mind to completely relax. And, in-suite gaming options means everyone can switch off and battle it out using an X Box Games Pass.
Time for dinner, and from the 18th of October to the 4th of November, children staying overnight at the hotel and aged under 12 dine for free at The Keepers and Cloisters Restaurant. Gather together in the historic original courtyard of Cloisters to dine beneath the stars under its luminous glass ceiling.
The Great Outdoors
When it comes to spending time in the great outdoors, Northumberland is a true playground. Fun and welcoming walking trails will captivate little explorers and wild adventures alike – scale the Cheviot hills to blow away the cobwebs, discover the native wildlife of our beautiful moorlands and meet red squirrels (and The Gruffalo!) at nearby Kielder Forest and Water Park.
Step back in time to explore ancient castles such as Dunstanburgh and Bamburgh, dotted along our unspoilt and wild coastline. Or put on your marching boots to walk in the footsteps of Roman Soldiers at Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 122AD.
Stargazing Season
As the temperatures drop and the nights draw in, the stars shine ever brighter, making autumn the perfect stargazing season. And, at the gateway to Northumberland’s Dark Sky Park, our historic hall offers some of the most pristine night skies in the country. Wrap up warm and step into the night on our terrace to look up and lose yourselves in distant constellations and galaxies before relaxing with a hot chocolate by the fire. Or book a private chauffeur to Kielder Observatory for a magical stargazing session.
Pumpkin Picking
Autumn simply isn’t autumn without a pumpkin. Take a trip to Brocksbushes Farm for a fun family afternoon of pumpkin picking. Choose your own to take home and transform into glowing jack o’lanterns. With a play barn, artisan farm shop and kitchen, this is a great trip for social media-loving teens and little ones alike.
Halloween Fun
This year, the October Half Term holiday includes Halloween, and if you’re feeling ghoulish there’s plenty of spooky family fun in Northumberland. Follow a Halloween hunt to solve creepy clues at historic Belsay Hall before gathering for some spellbinding storytelling. And travel to the beautiful Ford and Etal Estates to take part in their famous Scarycrow Trail remember to pick up a map and score sheet to mark your favourite spooky and silly scarecrows!
However you spend your October Half Term holiday, our 5 star estate provides a luxury experience for every member of the family. Plan your next getaway here.