Here in our border home, summer is still in play. The fields are golden with first harvests, and each day is a dance of sunlight, warm shadow and colour. Immersed in summer’s endless warmth, Christmas feels like a lifetime away. But, as our Stable Suites begin to fill up, now is the moment to wrap up the perfect festive escape.
With the arrival of the frost, snow and enticing darkness of winter, we also welcome a season of twinkling, timeless magic. From classic Christmas markets and crisp pine forest walks to traditional festive fun, Northumberland sets the scene for a winter getaway like no other.
Look beyond the big day itself to plan a pre-Christmas gathering of family or friends, or book a relaxed getaway to make the most of the peaceful period between Christmas and New Year.
Whichever you choose, Chesters Stables will be your winter hideaway; a cosy bolthole of crackling fires and 5 star comforts, ready with a warm welcome after each day. Read our guide to winter in Northumberland to start planning your festive escape today.
Christmas Shopping
Hexham Christmas Market: Sheltered in the shadow of its ancient tower, Hexham Abbey Christmas Fair brings atmosphere by the stocking-load. Warm your hands with a mulled wine and stroll the cobbles of the marketplace and the swaying lights of the park before browsing stalls inside and outside the abbey to pick up handmade gifts, local product and seasonal treats. With carol singing and children’s activities, it’s a classic Christmas market that starts the season with plenty of spirit.
Date: Saturday, 12th December, 9am – 3pm
Corbridge Christmas Tree Festival: Just a sledge ride or short car journey down the valley from your Stable Suite, the village of Corbridge awaits. Strung with fairy lights and lined with country cottages, its streets are also home to independent jewellers, chocolatiers, bookshops, gift shops and more. And, every December, a Christmas Tree Festival takes root. Step into the 14th century church of St Andrews to be greeted by over 100 trees, each decorated in support of local organisations and charities.
Date: 4th – 8th December
Festive Fun
Kielder Winter Wonderland: In winter, the deep dark woods of Kielder Forest are lit with Christmas light, its hush and quiet replaced with joyful laughter and music as Kielder Winter Wonderland arrives. Perfect for little ones, this annual event includes the chance to meet reindeer, help the elves in Santa’s workshop and sit down to some classic Christmas theatre.
Dates: From November
Christmas Carousel: In summer, Northumberland’s beaches are alive with activity. As winter rolls round, the sea quietens, but a different kind of fun arrives on shore. This year, 2000-year-old Bamburgh Castle transforms into a Christmas Carousel, an immersive experience celebrating timeless carols as you journey through each of the castle’s historic state rooms. With wreath-making workshops, a bauble emporium and a chance to meet Father Christmas himself, it’s a merry and bright day out for young and old.
Dates: 14th November – 3rd January
Winter Walks
Lambley Viaduct: A flexible and fascinating walk for young and old, this trail follows the line of the old South Tyne Valley railway, taking you through countryside and onto the magnificent Lambley Viaduct, which offers spectacular views up and down the South Tyne river as it rolls through snow-capped woodland. For smaller legs and relaxed walkers, you can simply turn around the way you came. But if you’ve worked up an appetite for a longer walk, following the steps down and follow the trail along the riverbank to discover 11th century Featherstone Castle before returning to your starting point.
Parking: South Tyne Trail Car Park
Penny Pie: The best winter walks end by the fire, and Penny Pie in Blanchland does not disappoint. Head to the picture perfect village of Blanchland and walk by the rushing waters of the River Derwent before following the path up and onto open heather moorland. Blow the cobwebs away as you make your way to Penny Pie House, which used to sell pies by the penny for drovers taking their wares to Hexham market. Head back down to the village via the welcome shelter of woodland to end your walk by warming up in the Lord Crewe Arms.
Parking: Blanchland village car park.
Your Christmas Home From Home
Gold Star Luxury: Tucked away in the heart of Northumberland, each of our eight self-catering Stable Suites are AA 5 Gold Star rated. Original, heritage features and country kitchens are paired with modern comforts to create the warmest welcome. Arrive to crackling fires and the space to unwind and celebrate together.
Celebrate Your Way: With pet-friendly options and suites sized to sleep between 2 and 8, whether you’re looking forward to a big pre-Christmas celebration or a relaxing getaway just for two, we have the perfect fit. Hang stockings by the fire and gather around the table for big dinners, or enjoy the simple magic of a peaceful winter getaway – however you like to celebrate, enjoy the freedom to spend time your time, your way.
Ready to start planning your festive escape to Northumberland? Browse our Stable Suites to find your Christmas home from home today.
