Your Winter Itinerary – 3 Days In Northumberland
Mornings newly minted by frost, dusk walks with the crisp scent of woodsmoke in the air and starlit evenings spent by the fire, dreaming of Christmas to come – winter in Northumberland is an enchantment.
Tucked away in a peaceful valley and offering 5 star comfort, our country estate is the perfect location to enjoy the very best of the season.
With so much to see, do, explore and enjoy in Northumberland this winter – we’ve compiled a 3-day guide to unforgettable events, activities and hidden gems.
And with our Fall Into Winter break at a Matfen Hall you can enjoy it all. Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 to escape to the country and relax into an extended pre-Christmas getaway.
Day 1
Come in from the cold to the very warmest welcome and time to relax by the roaring fire of our historic Great Hall. Sweep up the grand staircase to discover your winter hideaway – spacious snug and individually decorated, each of our luxuriously appointed rooms provides a personal sanctuary.
Rested and ready for an evening of indulgence, head down to the oak-panelled 1832 bar for a fireside aperitif. From a smoky and perfectly blended Old Fashioned to a classic Champagne Cocktail, spiced with rich cognac – let the everyday melt away with each sip.
Step into our premier dining destination, Emerald Restaurant – a true jewel, its picture windows frame breathtaking views of our 300-acre parkland estate. Ornate original Victorian features provide an opulent backdrop for an 8-course Tasting Menu, blending timeless flavours with rich, winter produce to create a seasonal, contemporary and unforgettable experience.
Winter in our part of the world is truly magical – the icy temperatures and dark nights make the stars above clearer and brighter than ever. And, nestled at the gateway of Northumberland’s Dark Sky Park our hotel is the perfect location for a spot of stargazing. Use our in-suite telescopes and night sky guides, or visit nearby Kielder Observatory to embrace the twinkling magic of deep, dark winter nights.
Day 2
Set yourselves up for a day of adventure with a delicious a la carte breakfast, lit by the winter sun beneath the glass ceiling of Cloisters Restaurant.
Time to wrap up warm and head out into the day. Northumberland in winter is spectacular, and with bespoke chauffeured tours available- it couldn’t be easier to enjoy the best of the region in absolute comfort.
Lace up your walking boots and get out into nature with a frosty walk along Hadrian’s Wall. Take in panoramic views of the snowy Northumbrian hilltops and moorland as you stride alongside this 1,902-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Or for a hidden gem, head west to the pretty village of Bellingham for an enchanted walk in the woods. Follow the forest trail, criss-crossing Hareshaw Burn and uncovering remnants of historic ironworks, now reclaimed by this ancient woodland. Venture on to discover Hareshaw Linn waterfall, cascading into a pool at the very heart of the forest gorge – a truly spectacular sight.
Return, red-cheeked and exhilarated to rest your feet and warm your toes by the fire. Your getaway includes complimentary access to The Retreat – our peaceful spa. Cosy up in luxurious robes for some true you-time, unwinding by out sunlit pool and thermal suites. Or treat yourselves to a Cinnamon Warming Body Massage to melt away winter’s chill.
Day 3
If you’re starting to feel festive, Northumberland has a full stocking of pre-Christmas activities and winter events just waiting to be unwrapped. Pick up thoughtful handmade, Northumbrian gifts at a selection of Christmas fairs and markets across November and December.
From historic Alnwick Castle and charming Hexham Christmas Market to the Forage Market at coastal Acklington – enjoy a day of mulled wine, mince pies and unique artisan goodies.
Head to the coast to discover A Christmas Through Time at Bamburgh Castle. From the 9th November to the 24th December, embark on a magical journey through its 14 state rooms to discover Christmases past, present and future. And bring magic and sparkle to your winter break with a trip to the Alnwick Garden Winter Light Trail. Perfect for families and available on dates throughout November and December, this immersive experiences pairs light and sound to bring the castle’s historic gardens glitteringly to life.
End your festive family day with a visit from the big man himself. Return to the estate to meet Santa Claus in his winter workshop, enjoy a delicious hot chocolate and brownie and take home a special gift.
If you’re enjoying a grown-up getaway, retreat to our elegant Drawing Room for Festive Afternoon Tea. Savour homemade gingerbread scones, classic Christmas finger sandwiches and delicate patisserie spiced with winter’s rich flavours. Or, gather in Cloisters Restaurant for a relaxed evening of table d’hote dining – local Northumbrian produce paired with contemporary flavours to craft a seasonal menu to delight.
Day 4
The end of your 3 night winter break in Northumberland, but time to squeeze in a session in our state-of-the-art golf simulator studio after breakfast.
Head down to The Keepers, our new parkland clubhouse to play a virtual round on international championship courses and enjoy a peaceful lunch overlooking the estate before you hit the road and head for home.
To begin planning your three night winter escape to our magnificent country estate, click here.