Crisp, bright skies, fiery seasonal shades and cosy fireside evenings make autumn the ideal time for a relaxing retreat to Northumberland.
Home to a unique history, rich culture and breathtaking landscapes – there’s so much to see, do and discover in our region. And our three-day itinerary pairs must-see attractions with local hidden gems to create a truly unforgettable break.
Enjoy it all with a Countryside Escape to Matfen Hall – staying 3 nights for the price of 2 at our peaceful country estate, set in the heart of the Northumbrian countryside.
Day 1
Arrive to a warming rum cocktail and time to relax in our Great Hall, softly illuminated by glowing stained glass and enveloped in fireside splendour. Make your way up the sweeping oak staircase to make yourself at home in your spacious and luxuriously appointed room.
During your Countryside Escape stay, you’ll receive complimentary access to The Retreat – our sanctuary of peace and harmony. Cosy up in a robe and slippers to enjoy time unwinding poolside, and why not prepare for the evening ahead with a blissful spa treatment using Natura Bisse, Derma and Germaine de Capuccini products?
Refreshed, suited and booted – it’s time to sweep into our decadent Emerald Restaurant to sit down to an eight-course Tasting Menu with expertly paired wines, highlighting seasonal flavours and the best local produce to create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Day 2
Start your second day illuminated by the morning sun, with an a la carte breakfast beneath the luminous glass ceiling of Cloisters Restaurant.
Adventure awaits, and Northumberland has a piece of magic to offer every type of traveller.
For hikers and nature lovers, Cheviot offers a satisfying challenge. The highest peak in Northumberland, your climb will be rewarded with views stretching to Edinburgh and the Lake District and time to drink in a birds-eye-view of the autumn landscape, a tumbling patchwork of purple heather, creamy cropped meadows and burnished woodland.
September is a particularly perfect time to explore Northumberland’s unique history. The Heritage Open Days event runs from the 6th to the 15th of September, and with events and celebrations across the county, it’s your opportunity to explore gems such as George Stephenson’s Birthplace in nearby Wylam and historic Hexham Gaol for free.
And for history aficionados, no trip to our region could be complete without an expedition to Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just minutes from Matfen Hall, step back in time to follow in the footsteps of the Romans and capture spectacular sunset views from its walking trails.
Return to our welcoming country house hotel for a well-earned sundowner in the wood-panelled 1832 Bar before dining in Cloisters Restaurant and Bar, surrounded by the original architecture of our beautiful courtyard.
Day 3
Take time to relax and unwind on the estate, retreat to the The Snug for a peaceful morning curled up in an armchair with a book by local author LJ Ross.
Or step outside to stroll the mature woodland and peaceful gardens of our estate. Follow our self-guided walk to scan QR code panels and learn more about the plants, trees, botanic life and history of the grounds.
If you’re visiting with the family, a trip to Alnwick Castle is a must. The home of Harry Potter, the castle itself is a magical experience (complete with broomstick flying lessons!) And Lilidorei, the world’s largest play structure, is a world of imagination with towering treehouses, tiny elf houses and true enchantment.
Staying on the estate, our new purpose-built clubhouse, The Keepers is your space to drink in the natural beauty of our parkland estate in style. Step into The Golf Lab to play true-to-life virtual games on famous courses from around the world, or challenge the family to a fun penalty shoot out in our world-class simulator studio. Reward yourselves with a relaxed lunch of small plates and wood fired pizza overlooking the grounds in The Keepers Restaurant and Bar.
Autumn is a perfect time for stargazing, as the nights begin to draw in the pristine dark skies of Northumberland truly shine. Head to Kielder Observatory, part of the region’s Dark Sky park to explore the heavens in Europe’s largest area of protected night sky.
Day 4
Your final day in Northumberland and time to say goodbye. End your stay in style with an a la carte breakfast before heading home with memories to last a lifetime.
To begin planning your three night escape to our magnificent country estate, click here.