Where to Stay and What to do in Northumberland this Christmas
March 21, 2026
Your complete guide to a magical North East escape. Northumberland is one of the UK’s most enchanting destinations at Christmas.
As the winter chill sets in, the countryside becomes dusted in frost, coastal towns glow with festive lights, and the region’s famously dark skies sparkle brighter than ever. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic hideaway, a dog-friendly family adventure, or a festive group getaway, Northumberland delivers magic at every turn.
And this year, your festive break just got even better. Enjoy 10% OFF any stay checking in between 18th – 31st December, with code SANTA10, when booking with North East Escapes.
Let’s unwrap the very best of what to do, and where to stay, this Christmas.
Why Visit Northumberland in Winter?
There is something indescribably special about Christmas in the North East. Think frosty beach walks, roaring pub fires, quiet, crowd-free castles, charming Christmas markets, star-filled skies over remote moorland, and cosy cottages with festive touches.
It’s the perfect recipe for slowing down, reconnecting, and making memories.
Top Things To Do in Northumberland This Christmas
Alnwick Garden Winter Light Trail
A must-see Christmas experience. Wander through illuminated forests, glowing sculptures, and magical installations in one of the North East’s most iconic attractions.
Just a short hop from Northumberland, the Newcastle markets fill the city centre with festive food stalls, mulled wine, handmade gifts, and Christmas cheer. Pair the buzz of the city with the calm of a Northumberland stay for the perfect festive getaway.
Stargazing in Northumberland’s Dark Sky Park
Northumberland is home to one of Europe’s largest dark sky zones, and winter offers the clearest skies of the year. Visit Kielder Observatory or simply step outside your holiday cottage and look up to experience dazzling constellations, shooting stars, and the Milky Way. It’s pure Christmas magic.
Scenic Winter Walks
Northumberland offers some of the UK’s most atmospheric winter trails:
Bamburgh Beach (quiet, dramatic & dog-friendly)
Dunstanburgh Castle coastal walk
Cragside winter woodland trails
Druridge Bay for peaceful seaside paths
Rothbury riverside & moorland walks
Wrap up warm and enjoy winter at its most beautiful.
Cosy Pubs & Winter Dining
A few of our festive favourites:
The Treehouse Restaurant in Alnwick, magical, fairy-lit, unforgettable
The Potted Lobster in Bamburgh, perfect for seafood lovers
The Fish Shack in Amble, rustic, warm & right by the harbour
The Joiners Arms in Newton-by-the-Sea, roaring fires & hearty food
Where to Stay This Christmas: North East Escapes Holiday Homes
All holiday homes below are pet-friendly, beautifully presented, and perfect for festive breaks, from romantic retreats to big family gatherings.
Martineau House, Sleeps 8 across 4 Bedrooms
A luxurious for-storey townhouse on Tynemouth’s Front Street. Perfect for groups and families wanting restaurants, coastal walks & festive markets on your doorstep.
Learchild House, Sleeps 4 across 2 Bedrooms
A stylish, warm and welcoming Alnwick home, ideal for accessing the Alnwick Garden Light Trail and local pubs.
Eddie’s Escape, Sleeps 6 across 3 Bedrooms
A bright and cosy bolthole in Amble, just moments from the harbour and Christmas markets.
Dairy Cottage @ Budle Barns, Sleeps 4 across 2 Bedrooms
A peaceful rural cottage close to Bamburgh, ideal for winter walks, beach days, and starry night skies.
The Retreat at Glenridge House, Sleeps 2 across 1 Bedroom
A modern, romantic hideaway surrounded by nature. Perfect for couples.
Babbling Burn Cottage, Sleeps 4 across 2 Bedrooms
Located in tranquil Spindlestone, just minutes from Bamburgh. A brilliant choice for families and dog-friendly breaks.
Keepers Cottage, Sleeps 4 across 2 Bedrooms
Keepers Lodge is a stone built former gamekeepers lodge set within the grounds of Hindley House in the hamlet of Hindley, close to Hexham, Corbridge and Stocksfield.
Hill House Hideaway, Sleeps 2 across 1 Bedroom
Hill House Hideaway is a charming countryside retreat offering an idyllic escape for two guests. Nestled just outside Bardon Mill, with a cosy wood stove, and a tranquil outdoor space, Hill House Hideaway is the ideal choice for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Cherry Tree House, Sleeps 4 across 2 Bedrooms
Cherry Tree House is a delightful coastal cottage set on a peaceful street in the lively harbour town of Amble. Thoughtfully styled and full of character, it offers comfortable accommodation for up to four guests, making it an ideal choice for families, friends, or couples looking for a relaxing break by the sea.
The Duke, Sleeps 8 across 4 Bedrooms
The Duke is a dog-friendly holiday cottage with a private hot tub, nestled in the serene hamlet of Dukesfield, just 5 minutes from Bamburgh. This beautiful holiday cottage was purposely built and stylishly designed with extremely high-quality finishes throughout to ensure guests enjoy a luxury escape.
Spindlestone House, Sleeps 10 across 5 Bedrooms
Spindlestone House is a dog-friendly holiday cottage with a private hot tub nestled in the serene hamlet of Spindlestone, just 5 minutes from Bamburgh.
Budle Newton Cottage, Sleeps 8 across 4 Bedrooms
Budle Newton is a dog-friendly holiday cottage complete with a private hot tub, from which you can enjoy breathtaking views across the stunning Budle Bay.
The Best Northumberland Towns to Visit This Christmas
Alnwick
A picturesque market town filled with festive charm, Alnwick is home to the famous castle, cobbled streets, quaint shops, and the unmissable Alnwick Garden Christmas Light Trail.
Amble
Known as the “Friendliest Port,” Amble is full of warmth and character at Christmas. Enjoy seafood cabins, harbour walks, artisan markets, and cosy coastal cafés.
Bamburgh
With its dramatic castle overlooking the North Sea, Bamburgh is breathtaking in winter. The wide sandy beach is perfect for brisk festive walks, and the village pubs are ideal for warming up afterward.
Tynemouth
A vibrant seaside town with independent shops, Christmas markets, excellent food, and a stunning priory overlooking the coast. Perfect for weekend winter breaks.
Rothbury
Nestled by the River Coquet, Rothbury is peaceful, scenic, and ideal for countryside lovers. Explore Cragside’s wintry woodland and charming village pubs.
A Christmas Escape For Every Type of Guest
Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat for two, a family getaway full of festive memories, a group break with friends and furry companions, North East Escapes has a property to suit every style of traveller.
Let this Christmas be one filled with charm, tranquillity, and unforgettable memories made in Northumberland. To discover your next North East getaway, visit our holiday homes.
