Christmas Magic in Northumberland: Markets, Castles & Festive Fun
Northumberland becomes truly magical at Christmas. With historic castles, charming villages, winter light displays, and cosy pubs, the county turns into a festive wonderland. From candlelit parades to bustling markets, there’s something for everyone.
Bamburgh Castle – “Treasured Tales”
- Dates: 8 November 2025 – 4 January 2026 (bamburghcastle.com)
- Theme: Treasured Tales transforms the castle into immersive storybook-inspired rooms.
- Father Christmas Grotto: 27 November – 23 December 2025.
- Twilight Christmas Nights: Selected evenings with magical lighting and decorations.
Belford & Sunnyhills: Festive Food, Gifts & Take‑Away Cheer
Sunnyhills, just outside Belford, is a perfect festive pit stop. It’s more than a farm shop — it’s a destination for Christmas food, gifts, and cheer:
- Deli & Local Produce: Artisan cheeses, fresh and cooked meats, pastries, quiches, Scotch eggs, seasonal salads, and more. (sunnyhills.co.uk)
- Christmas Dinner Take‑Away: Order a traditional turkey dinner or festive specials for stress-free feasting. (Sunnyhills/Facebook)
- Gift Shop: Local produce, artisan foods, and Christmas-worthy items, ideal for stocking fillers or thoughtful gifts. (northumberlandgazette.co.uk)
- Bistro: Open daily from 10-4pm – cosy and welcoming for a festive bite. (sunnyhills.co.uk)
Sunnyhills is perfect for visitors who want to combine festive shopping, food, and a coffee. Dog friendly area inside but best to call to book as it is very popular – tel:01668219662
Lucker: The Apple Inn Christmas Events
Lucker is small but packed with festive charm, centred around The Apple Inn, an award-winning gastropub:
- Wreath-Making Workshop — Saturday 29 November
Craft your own wreath with festive drinks. - Christmas Party Night — Friday 5 December, 7pm–11:30pm
Enjoy a festive menu, music, and dancing — perfect for friends, couples, or families.
The Apple Inn also offers cosy rooms and shepherd’s huts, making it a perfect winter getaway. (theappleinnlucker.com)
The Alnwick Gardens
The Alnwick Garden & Lilidorei:
- Winter Lights Trail: 20 November 2025 – 4 January 2026 (alnwickgarden.com)
- Father Christmas at Lilidorei: Weekends Nov–Dec, magical grotto visits.
- Festive Afternoon Tea: Sandwiches, cakes, and scones in a themed setting.
- Party Night: Friday 12th December – festive food , music, and dancing.
- Noon Year’s Eve Kids Party: Dancing, party games and a buffet lunch with your friends.
Seahouses
Coastal walks, harbour views, and independent shops make Seahouses perfect for a festive day out. Stop for gifts or enjoy fresh local seafood in a cosy winter setting.
⛰️ Wooler & Ad Gefrin – Ancient Yule Traditions
Ad Gefrin celebrates Christmas with:
- Candlelit Parade & Yule Goat — 28 November 2025 at 4pm
- Yule Artisan Market & Food Festival — 29–30 November from 10am – 10pm
- Yule Cocktail Workshop & Christmas Parties — 11 & 12 December
Hands-on experiences, music, and storytelling make Wooler a uniquely festive destination. (adgefrin.co.uk)
Paxton House – Christmas Cracker
6–7 December 2025 (paxtonhouse.co.uk)
- 50+ artisan stalls
- Georgian house decorated for Christmas
- Seasonal food & hot turkey rolls
- Children’s craft activities and wreath-making workshops
Ford & Etal: Storybook Christmas & Local Festivities
Cosy cafés, local markets, and festive village charm make Ford & Etal a perfect Christmas stroll destination. Highlights include:
- Ford & Etal Christmas Market – Browse local crafts, artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and festive decorations.
- Cheviot Tap – A place not to be missed when you visit the area. Great ales and a great atmosphere.
This combination of markets, local pubs, and traditional village atmosphere makes Ford & Etal a must-visit destination during the festive season.
For more ideas on what’s going on in and around Northumberland this Christmas, visit our website here
