10 things to put on your summer to-do list

  • By Walwick Hall
  • June 20, 2019
  • Uncategorised

It’s that time of year again – when we can finally start thinking about summer and all the wonderful ways we want to spend those upcoming balmy days. To help you on your way to summer perfection, we’ve unveiled a list of the best things to do during a sun-soaked stay at Chesters Stables, from exploring new spaces to inspirational days out for families.

1. Go castle spotting
There are enough castles in Northumberland to entertain even the most dedicated history buff. In fact, thanks to the battles that raged between England and Scotland for centuries, the region has more than 70 castle sites to offer! This summer, put Aydon Castle, Belsay Castle, Alnwick Castle and Prudhoe Castle at the top of your list, each located just a quick drive away from our Estate.

2. Take a photo of the Sycamore Gap
No Northumbrian trip is complete without a visit to Hadrian’s Wall and there’s no better time to visit than through the balmy summer months offering beautiful blue sky backdrops. The Sycamore Gap tree is one of most photographed in the country so, if you haven’t already, then head down this summer and get your own snap next to it.

3. Treat yourself to a Spa Day with a view
Prepare yourself for a summer of relaxation in the peace and tranquility The Spa at Matfen Hall. Indulge in one of our luxury Germaine de Capuccini treatments or therapies before soaking up the beautiful Tyne Valley views that surround our unique pavilion pool.

4. Go shopping on Corbridge’s pretty high street
Filled with history and charm, Corbridge offers one of the prettiest high streets to visit in the county. Head down this summer and wander along the quaint streets as you explore the village’s artisan bookshops, art galleries, family-run bakeries and boutiques that boast beautifully decorated fronts.

5. Stargaze at the International Dark Sky Park
At an impressive 572 square miles, Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is officially England’s best spot to enjoy stargazing. On a clear night you can see millions of stars, the Milky Way and even the Andromeda Galaxy with the naked eye. We recommend venturing out in August to witness the Perseid meteor shower, one of the year’s most spectacular.

6. Take in the peaceful atmosphere of Hexham Abbey
Hexham Abbey has been a place of Christian worship since AD674 and today presents 1,300 years of its history as a priory and parish church in the very centre of the thriving market town of Hexham. This summer, soak up some culture and take the time to experience the Abbey’s beautiful architecture and unique atmosphere, which many say reflects all the prayers that have been offered here for over 1,000 years.

7. Enjoy a relaxing dog walk around Bolam Lake
Situated in the heart of the countryside, Bolam Lake is surrounded by historic landscapes and dramatic views. With lakeside, woodland and open grassed areas, head over this summer to enjoy a sunny lakeside walk that both you and your four-legged friend will love.

8. Celebrate Afternoon Tea Week
Celebrate the great British tradition of Afternoon Tea at nearby Matfen Hall. So, take the opportunity to bring a little indulgence to your week with a Traditional or Northumbrian Afternoon Tea in The Orangery, the dedicated tea lounge, where you’ll enjoy a decadent selection of homemade sweet and savoury treats as you take in our beautiful countryside views.

9. Lose yourself in the beauty of Alnwick Garden
Alnwick Garden is one of the world’s most extraordinary contemporary gardens. With a collection of over 4,000 plant varieties to discover, thousands of seasonal blooms, spell-binding water sculptures and one of the world’s largest tree houses, there’s plenty to surprise and delight visitors over the summer months, when the gardens are open until 7pm every day.

10. Watch a real excavation at Vindolanda
Or why not watch history be uncovered at Europe’s most exciting archaeological site. Formerly a key military post on the northern frontier of Britain, Vindolanda is the home of Britain’s ‘Top Treasure’ – the Vindolanda Writing Tablets – and is one of Europe’s most important Roman archaeological sites, with live excavations taking place every year.

Ready to experience all this and more this summer? Book your luxury break at Matfen Hall here.

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