Now that spring has sprung, where better to make the most of longer, warmer days than beautiful Northumberland? While glorious weeks of sunshine at your disposal may sound like you have enough time on your hands to discover every landmark and landscape you can find, Northumberland is home to an endless list of must-see attractions, from the world-famous to those known only to local residents.
Here, we plan out the perfect itinerary that helps you explore the best of Northumberland this Easter, while our Spring into Summer package is the ideal way to stay, as it offers 3 nights at our magnificent country estate for the price of 2.
Day 1
After arriving at the jewel in Northumberland’s crown, make yourself at home in our beautiful suites before venturing to our stunning coastline.
While Holy Island and Lindisfarne often take the headlines and Bamburgh, along with its castle, has made its mark on celluloid over the years, would also strongly recommend beaches such as Alnmouth, Cresswell and Cambois.
Whether your vision of a day at the beach means playing in the dunes and building sand castles or taking peaceful strolls parallel with the waves, these lesser-known spots are no less picturesque.
Offering days out to remember, they also lie significantly closer to Matfen Hall than their world-famous counterparts and are conveniently placed to explore the historic market towns of Morpeth, either of which can be the another place during your first day in Northumberland.
Alnwick is the home of magic. Not only is it the setting of many scenes from the Harry Potter movie franchise, it’s also where children of all ages can explore Lilidorei, a play park set in Alnwick Gardens. Imaginations run wild in this mystical village, where elves live and guests can create their own adventures amongst the world’s largest play structure.
Morpeth lies closer to Cresswell and Cambois, making it a wonderful place to stop off at on your way back to our country house hotel.
This bustling market town houses an embarrassment of bars and restaurants to visit, as well as luxury shops, creating the ultimate high street experience.
The colourful Carlisle Park is a wonderful location for an idyllic walk amongst beautiful gardens and, should you visit on the first Saturday of the month, you’ll be able to take part in a traditional shopping experience with Morpeth’s Farmers’ Market.
Returning to Matfen Hall, an evening of exquisite dining awaits in Cloisters Restaurant and Bar.
Day 2
Begin your day with a delicious à la carte breakfast amongst the original architecture of our stunning courtyard and beneath our beautiful glass ceiling. What better way to start your day?
If you haven’t yet scratched your retail therapy itch or desire to explore more market towns, award-winning Hexham lies close to our estate. Full of boutique shops, gorgeous parks and stunning architecture – not to mention an historical landmark or two – Hexham and nearby Corbridge offer unique days out.
For those looking for something a little more adventurous, Hadrian’s Wall stretches from one side of Northumberland to the other, carving a path through idyllic countryside. Offering endless opportunities for capturing moments with your camera, this UNESCO world heritage site also offers a unique historic insight into what life was like in Roman Britain.
On your return to our estate, take the time to unwind in The Retreat, our harmonious spa, and discover new levels of tranquillity with our range of treatments and rituals.
From Pollution Defence Face Therapy, which restores luminosity and hydration to your skin, to Mediterranean Candle Massages, which will melt away tension and awaken your senses, our treatments are designed to help you relax and recharge.
During your Spring into Summer stay, you can enjoy complimentary access to The Retreat’s luxury pool and thermal suites, allowing you to unwind at your leisure.
That evening, sweep into Emerald Restaurant for our exquisite Tasting Menu. This five-star dining experience boasts up to 8 delicious courses for you to savour as our team of chefs demonstrate their skills and expertise.
Intricately decorated, our premier dining destination is the ideal location for an evening of elegance, while views of our unique parkland and Northumberland beyond provide a truly unforgettable backdrop.
Day 3
Why not take the time to soak up the sun during your stay by exploring our beautiful gardens and discovering the blossoming Le Jardin Hollandais or relaxing on our Terrace?
Or why not visit The Orangery for an indulgent Afternoon Tea? Our selection of delicate finger sandwiches, handmade scones and decadent sweet treats are the ideal way to relax on a spring day. Views of our superb parkland, accompanied by your choice of Newby Teas and Cafe Du Monde Coffee make this a true highlight of your stay, while the option of Laurent-Perrier Champagne adds extra elegance to your experience.
Spring is the ideal time of year to enjoy a stargazing experience at Kielder Observatory. Home to Northumberland Internal Dark Sky Park, this observatory is world-renowned and recognised as Europe’s largest area of protected night sky. A beautiful place for the whole family to explore the night sky, Kielder Observatory is ideal to visit at any time of the year, but especially during the 2nd and 8th of April, when International Dark Sky Week is celebrated.
Day 4
While we cannot make your time in Northumberland last forever, our delicious à la carte breakfast ensures that it ends in style.
Your time in Northumberland can be something truly special and it will be sad to bring your stay to a close, but with this itinerary, you’ll be leaving Matfen Hall with a host of memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
To begin planning your three night escape to our magnificent country estate, click here.