1. Long Meg and Her Daughters
When? Saturday, December 11
Where? Hunsonby, Penrith
The Bronze Age stone circle, dating from approximately 1500 BC, was cited by William Wordsworth as “the most notable relic that this or any other country contains” next to Stonehenge. Long Meg was likely to have been a meeting place for some kind of religious ritual. Legend says that Long Meg was a witch who was turned to stone along with her daughters, and it is rumoured if anyone counts the same number of stones twice, they will break the spell on the stones.
2. Hareshaw Linn
When? Saturday, December 11
Where? Bellingham
The stunning scenery of Hareshaw Linn, a nine-metre high waterfall set within ancient woodland, inspires imaginations with fantasies of magic and adventure. The area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) designated for the rarity of its ferns and lichen. Wildlife includes red squirrels, wood warblers, bats, and badgers.
3. Chesters Roman Fort and Museum
When? Saturday, December 11
Where? Chollerford, Hexham
Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most in-tact Roman fort in Britain, where the well-preserved baths and steam room give a glimpse into what life was like, along with the officers’ quarters. Their new exhibition, Wood of the Well, displays artifacts discovered in a well in the 19th century, at the Clayton Museum.
4. Chesters Stables, Walwick Hall
When? Saturday, December 11
Where? Walwick, Hexham
These luxury self-catering suites are cushioned by the landscaped Walwick Hall Country Estate, in the heart of Northumberland. A spa, afternoon tea, pool, and fitness suite are all on hand to give you a relaxing weekend away. The stables are also pet-friendly, which means no one gets left behind.
5. Aydon Castle
When? Saturday, December 11
Where? Just outside of Corbridge
This castle is one of the finest and best preserved manor houses from the 13th century. Located in a secluded area, it combines scenic woodland and extensive history.
6. Christmas at Carntyne
When? Saturday, December 11
Where? Carntyne Care Home, Hencotes, Hexham
Christmas has arrived at Carntyne Care Home, where they have Santa’s Grotto, local craft stalls, and mulled wine. They are open from 2pm till 5pm, and tickets to see Santa includes a present, a hot chocolate cone, and reindeer food for £3. All profits made from the event will go towards the residents’ fund.
7. Centre For Life
When? Saturday, December 11
Where? Central Newcastle Upon Tyne
There’s so much to see and do at the Centre for Life this Christmas, including the Lumiere Live Science Show, the Lantern Trail, Space Zone, and ice-skating to top it all off. There are activities and exhibitions for every age and interest.
8. The Rat Inn
When? Sunday, December 12
Where? Anick, Hexham
This gastropub has beautiful views and a quaint, rustic bar serving an a la carte menu for Sunday lunch. It’s currently ranked number 14 in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs 2021, so why not try it and find out why?
9. Christmas at Beamish
When? Sunday, December 12
Where? Beamish Museum, Stanley
Open 10am till 4pm, explore exciting festivities at Beamish this weekend, admiring traditional Christmas decorations, eating Yuletide treats, and shopping for gifts at the market stalls. There’s plenty of history to learn along the way, including what foods were eaten to celebrate in the 1820’s, or how miners and their families enjoyed Christmas in the 1900’s.
10. Discovery Museum
When? Saturday, December 11 and Sunday, December 12
Where? Central Newcastle
There are various activities at the Discovery Museum this weekend, including; the Festival of Sound, a fun flight simulator ride with the RAF Red Arrows, and the exhibition In Times of Emergency, which explores how Northern Cavalry The Light Dragoons support the civil authorities.
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