Christmas events in Northumberland

When winter wraps Northumberland in its festive embrace, Christmas brings a magical transformation to this wild and wonderful corner of England. Ancient castles sparkle with lights, cosy cottages welcome you with crackling fires, and adventure beckons from every snow-dusted hill and wave-lapped shore.

You'll discover that Northumberland doesn't just celebrate the festive season, it lives and breathes the spirit in ways that'll warm your heart and create memories to treasure forever. From enchanting light trails through historic gardens to thrilling winter activities, Christmas events in Northumberland offer the perfect blend of traditional charm and exciting adventure for your festive getaway.

As a lifelong local, I’m excited to share our guide to the best Christmas events across Northumberland. From festive markets and sparkling light displays to family-friendly celebrations, this blog highlights the top spots and activities to make the season magical for everyone.

Unmissable Christmas events in Northumberland

The festive calendar in Northumberland sparkles with events that'll fill you with Christmas spirit. Traditional Christmas events across Northumberland offer handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and that special atmosphere you can only find in Britain's most beautiful corners.

Christmas light switch-ons

Kick off the festive season in Northumberland with magical Christmas light switch-ons. Enjoy sparkling lights, carols, live music, and festive treats in towns and villages across the county. Perfect for families, these events bring communities together and set a joyful tone for the holidays.

The Alnwick Garden and Lilidorei

The Alnwick Garden becomes a stunning winter wonderland, with dazzling light displays illuminating the Poison Garden and Grand Cascade. Wander through shimmering pathways filled with seasonal magic.

Lilidorei, the elf-inspired village and world's largest play structure, is full of charm and adventure. Perfect for families, it invites playful exploration and creativity. From discovering enchanting huts to enjoying themed play areas, Lilidorei offers a magical experience for all ages.

Kielder Winter Wonderland

Set against the stunning backdrop of Europe's largest man-made lake and England's largest forest, Kielder Winter Wonderland offers a full day of festive fun for the whole family. From helping Mrs Christmas prepare for the big day to crafting in the elves’ workshop and exploring the forest to find Father Christmas, there’s magic around every corner. With Father Christmas and his cheerful friends calling the forest home, you never know who you might meet along the way.

Bamburgh Castle Christmas event

During the festive season, Bamburgh Castle transforms into a spellbinding winter wonderland, enchanting visitors with its charm. Each year, the castle embraces a new theme, brought to life through stunning installations that weave through its historic halls. The grandeur of the castle is illuminated by twinkling lights and adorned with seasonal decorations, while the themed displays create an immersive and imaginative experience.

Christmas at Langley Castle

Langley Castle is a magical destination for celebrating the festive season, offering an array of delightful Christmas events to suit all tastes. From creative wreath-making workshops where you can craft your own seasonal masterpiece to elegant festive dinners in the castle's enchanting setting, there’s something for everyone. Visitors can also enjoy charming festive fairs, brimming with unique gifts and local treats, perfect for adding a touch of Christmas magic to your holiday. Each event at Langley Castle is thoughtfully curated to ensure a memorable and heart-warming experience in this historic venue.

Christmas shopping

Christmas shopping in Northumberland is an enchanting experience, with its charming market towns and unique boutiques. For the best variety, head to Alnwick, Morpeth, or Corbridge, where you’ll find an array of options to suit every taste. Smaller villages, however, are perfect for discovering unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. From handmade knitwear and bespoke jewellery to decadent chocolates, Northumberland offers something special for everyone, making it the ideal destination for festive shopping and holiday memories.

Boxing Day Dip

For those seeking an exhilarating way to end the festive season, every year, dozens of brave dippers take the Boxing Day plunge into the icy waters of the North Sea at Spittal Beach. This spirited tradition is full of camaraderie, laughter, and community cheer. Warm up afterwards with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or mulled cider, and start a new tradition with friends and family.

Winter adventures

Even if the festive season isn’t your thing, winter in Northumberland offers plenty of adventures beyond the holiday cheer. From breathtaking hikes through serene landscapes to cosy evenings spent stargazing, there’s something to captivate all ages.

Water sports in winter

Winter surfing along the Northumberland coast is a thrilling way to embrace the season, offering uncrowded beaches and the striking beauty of dramatic winter light. The waves don’t take a holiday break, and neither should your sense of adventure. Thanks to arctic storms, winter brings more consistent swells, making it an ideal time for surfers seeking a challenge. Top spots like Bamburgh Castle Beach and Beadnell Bay are perfect for catching those winter waves. Be sure to gear up with a wetsuit, boots, gloves, and a hood to stay warm, and always check weather conditions and tide times before heading out.

Stargazing

Northumberland is a stargazer’s paradise, with some of the darkest skies in Europe, making it perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and nature lovers. As a designated Dark Sky Park, it offers incredible opportunities to marvel at the universe. Winter, with its long, clear nights, is ideal for spotting the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, and even the Northern Lights. Visit Kielder Observatory to explore the cosmos with expert-led events and advanced telescopes, or enjoy peaceful stargazing along the scenic coastline. Whether you're an astronomer or a casual observer, Northumberland promises an unforgettable night under the stars.

Brisk walks on the Northumberland coast

Winter walks in Northumberland are a perfect way to enjoy fresh coastal air and breathtaking scenery. Wrap up warm and set out to explore windswept beaches, rugged cliffs, and quaint villages. With quiet, deserted shores, winter is an ideal time to embrace the tranquillity of the coastline. Be sure to dress for the season with a jacket, hat, and gloves, and plan your route to suit your fitness level and available daylight. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack waterproofs and extra layers just in case.

Planning your perfect festive getaway in Northumberland

For a truly magical Christmas, why not gather your loved ones in a large cottage in Northumberland? With ample space for everyone, these charming holiday homes offer the perfect setting for festive feasts, games by the fire, and creating cherished memories together.

Embark on adventures discovering majestic castles and stunning coastlines, or unwind by the fire in one of our luxury cottages. Reserve your stay early and immerse yourself in a festive season brimming with wonder, excitement, and heartfelt hospitality.