Experience Christmas in Northumberland with Hemera Holidays
Northumberland is one of the most enchanting places to visit during the festive season. Twinkling market towns, historic castles dressed in Christmas décor, family activities and crisp winter landscapes set the perfect scene for a December getaway. If you’re looking for a cosy, convenient and magical base, Felmoor Park and Percy Wood Country Park are two of the best places to stay.
Both parks offer comfortable lodge holidays, peaceful surroundings and easy access to the county’s biggest Christmas events, making them ideal for couples, families and friends searching for a festive break that balances excitement with relaxation.
Browse available lodges: https://www.hemeraholidays.com
1. Christmas Markets and Festive Light Switch-Ons
Northumberland’s December calendar is filled with Christmas markets, each offering handmade crafts, festive baking, mulled wine and warm winter atmosphere.
You can explore the region’s official list of festive events on the Visit Northumberland Christmas guide
One of the highlights is the Hexham Christmas Market, expected on Saturday 13 December, featuring artisan stalls, festive music and a charming market-town backdrop. Felmoor Park is only a short drive away, making it the perfect base for a festive shopping trip.
Several towns across the county also host their own Christmas light switch-ons, creating a magical atmosphere for an evening stroll before heading back to your warm lodge for hot chocolate or a relaxing night in the hot tub.
2. Christmas at Bamburgh Castle and Other Historic Attractions
Northumberland’s landmarks transform spectacularly for Christmas, and none more so than Bamburgh Castle, which is set to host a festive experience inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas. Expect stunning displays, seasonal music and beautifully decorated state rooms.
Staying at Felmoor Park or Percy Wood puts you within easy travelling distance, allowing you to enjoy Bamburgh’s coastal charm and festive magic in the same day.
Other historic sites such as Cragside House and Gardens also hold winter light trails and family activities throughout December. This is a cosy, atmospheric day out perfect for those who love heritage and Christmas combined.
3. Family-Friendly Festive Experiences
If you’re visiting with children, both parks offer an excellent location close to Northumberland’s most popular festive attractions.
A favourite is the Whitehouse Farm Centre Christmas Experience, around 15 minutes drive from Felmoor Park! Where children can meet Santa, join the elves for craft sessions and enjoy hands-on fun with the animals.
Another option is The Sill, which hosts winter nature trails, workshops and indoor activities suitable for families looking for an educational but fun Christmas outing.. The Sill is around an hours drive from both Felmoor Park and Percy Wood Country Park, making it still doable as a day trip during your Christmas break.
4. Cosy Lodge Stays, Winter Walks and Seasonal Comforts
Your festive escape shouldn’t end once you leave the event. One of the biggest advantages of staying with Hemera Holidays at Felmoor Park or Percy Wood Country Park is the peaceful, cosy retreat waiting for you at the end of each day.
Felmoor Park is open all year round, offering scenic lakeside walks, wildlife and a quiet setting perfect for unwinding after a busy day Christmas shopping or sightseeing. All of the Hemera Holidays lodges come with private hot tubs, a real treat on cold December evenings.
Percy Wood Country Park offers woodland trails and tranquil natural surroundings, ideal for a crisp winter walk before heading out to your chosen event. Please note Percy Wood is closed in February, but it’s fully open throughout December and perfect for Christmas breaks.
Both parks provide the perfect blend of comfort, serenity and convenience, making them standout locations for festive getaways.
Both Felmoor Park and Percy Wood Country Park are fully pet-friendly, and every one of our lodges welcomes dogs too. With both parks designated as protected firework-free zones, they offer a calm and peaceful environment — ideal for pets who may feel nervous during the festive season.
5. Festive Dining and Local Treats
Whether you’re planning a Christmas lunch, a festive afternoon tea or a cosy pub meal, Northumberland has plenty of seasonal food experiences nearby.
From traditional country pubs serving hearty winter menus to restaurants offering festive specials, there is something for every palate. And staying at Felmoor Park or Percy Wood means you’re never too far from great dining options, with the added benefit of being able to return to your lodge for a relaxed evening.
You can dine in the on-site pub or explore local food and drink ideas here:
https://www.visitnorthumberland.com/food-and-drink
6. Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Festive Stay
To make sure your Christmas escape runs smoothly:
Book early – Christmas events fill up quickly, especially Santa experiences.
Plan your itinerary – Group attractions by area to reduce driving time.
Dress for winter weather – December can be very cold, so pack layers.
Schedule downtime – Enjoy your lodge’s comforts between festive outings.
Choose your ideal base – Felmoor Park for lakeside relaxation, Percy Wood for woodland tranquillity — or try both throughout the season.
Make Your Christmas in Northumberland Truly Magical
With its festive markets, illuminated stately homes, family activities and winter scenery, Northumberland is the perfect destination for a Christmas getaway. Staying at Felmoor Park or Percy Wood Country Park with Hemera Holidays places you right at the heart of the county’s seasonal celebrations, while also giving you a peaceful, comfortable retreat to return to each evening.
Whether you’re planning a romantic week away, a festive break with the family or a quiet escape with friends, these two locations offer everything you need for a December filled with magic, memories and seasonal joy.