Wrap up warm: 3 local walks to try before Christmas

With our beautiful crackling fires, indulgent dining and warming Spa, Matfen Hall offers the perfect place for a luxurious winter break to remember. And our wonderful location in the heart of the region means guests can also venture out on foot during their stay and discover the beauty of our local Northumberland countryside as it steps into the festive season. Here’s 3 of our favourite local winter walks guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit this year…

Take in the first scenes of winter from the edge of the Roman Empire on Hadrian’s Wall. With its striking landscapes and beautiful countryside exposed, the Wall takes on a special seasonal beauty during the quieter winter months, making it the perfect time to immerse yourself in its fascinating 2000-year history. Due to the altitude of the site, the cold season is usually accompanied by snow, cloaking the scenery with a beautiful crisp, white blanket.

What could be lovelier in the build-up to Christmas than to wrap up in cosy knits and enjoy a magical lakeside walk with all the family? Many of the Northumberland’s most picturesque sites truly come into their own over winter, but none more so than Bolam Lake. Located just a short drive from Walwick, the scenery and wildlife at this time of year are truly exceptional. Bolam’s large freshwater lake is surrounded by beautiful woodland and grassland, and is home to wildlife such as red squirrels, roe deer, great spotted woodpeckers and a good selection of wildfowl, especially during the winter months, to create a picture-perfect festive scene.

If you’re searching for fresh air and space, our local countryside and villages have both to spare. Breathe in the crisp, clear air and enjoy a brisk walk with a backdrop of breathtaking scenery through Chesters and Humshaugh. Starting from our Estate at the hotel or Chester Stables, you can enjoy a relaxing short stroll to the quaint village of Humshaugh, passing English Heritage site Chesters Roman Fort along the way, the best preserved Roman Cavalry Fort in England. Be sure to stop off at Humshaugh War Memorial to enjoy rolling wintry views of the North Tyne Valley.

Have you booked your festive visit to Matfen Hall yet? Celebrate Christmas with a range of fun and festive activities, all of which can be found here.