Hidden Christmas Gems: Little-Known Places to Explore in Northumberland This Festive Season
Northumberland is full of winter magic—glittering frost-covered landscapes, peaceful coastlines, and cosy rural villages that feel like scenes from a Christmas card. While the county’s famous castles and coastlines shine all year round, Christmastime is the perfect opportunity to discover the quieter, lesser-known places that offer something truly special during the festive season.
Here are some of Northumberland’s best hidden gems—and why they’re especially magical at Christmas.
1. Barter Books Murals & Hidden Corners (Alnwick)
One of Britain’s most charming bookshops becomes even more irresistible in winter. Barter Books, built within Alnwick’s old railway station, is warm, atmospheric, and filled with the gentle hum of Christmas shoppers hunting for unique stories.
Wander beneath twinkling lights, see the model trains chugging overhead, and explore quiet nooks like the Poetry Garden—perfect for curling up with a festive read.
Why it’s magical at Christmas:
Crackling fires, cosy armchairs, and shelves filled with vintage books make it feel like stepping into a Dickens novel.
2. St Cuthbert’s Cave (Near Belford)
For a winter walk that feels wonderfully mystical, St Cuthbert’s Cave offers a peaceful escape from the festive rush. The sandstone overhang sits hidden among pine trees, and in December the woodland path is often dusted with frost, giving the whole area a magical, hushed atmosphere.
Climb a little higher and you’ll be treated to sweeping winter views across to Holy Island.
Why it’s magical at Christmas:
The peaceful forests and crisp air create a calming, reflective spot—perfect for a pre-Christmas breather.
3. Hareshaw Linn Waterfall (Bellingham)
The walk to Hareshaw Linn feels like a winter fairytale. Mossy trees, old bridges, and a dramatic gorge lead to a secluded waterfall that looks especially enchanting in December—sometimes even forming elegant icicles in colder spells.
It’s a serene alternative to busy festive hotspots.
Why it’s magical at Christmas:
The woodland feels ancient and untouched, offering a quiet festive escape that’s full of natural beauty.
4. Amble’s Harbour Village Pods
Hidden along Amble’s waterfront are the charming Harbour Village pods—small cabins selling handmade gifts, artwork, jewellery and delicious local produce. In winter, they’re decorated with lights and filled with artisans offering thoughtful Christmas treats you won’t find on the high street.
After browsing, take a wintery wander along the pier with views to Coquet Island.
Why it’s magical at Christmas:
It’s one of the best places in Northumberland for unique, locally made Christmas shopping in a beautiful coastal setting.
5. Ros Castle & The Kyloe Hills
If you’re searching for a quiet winter viewpoint far from the festivities, Ros Castle is perfect. The short walk to the top boasts one of Northumberland’s best panoramas—rolling hills, distant sea, and endless sky. Not to mention that on a clear day, 5 castles can be seen.
On crisp December days, the landscape is transformed by winter light, with long shadows and golden hues.
Why it’s magical at Christmas:
Sunrise and sunset are spectacular at this time of year—ideal for those peaceful Christmas moments before the celebrations begin.
6. Blawearie Stone Circle (Hepburn Moor)
Remote, mysterious, and incredibly atmospheric, Blawearie Stone Circle offers a Christmas adventure with a prehistoric twist. Surrounded by wild moorland, the circle feels even more dramatic under winter skies.
The walk is peaceful, with big open views and a wonderful sense of solitude.
Why it’s magical at Christmas:
Winter sunsets over the moors create an unforgettable, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
7. Warkworth Hermitage (A Hidden Medieval Sanctuary)
Tucked away on the banks of the River Coquet, the Warkworth Hermitage is a medieval chapel carved into the rock and accessible only by boat. Though only open seasonally, visiting in late autumn or early winter offers a rare chance to experience one of Northumberland’s most unusual historic sites without the crowds.
Why it’s magical at Christmas:
Its quiet riverside setting and ancient stonework offer a peaceful, contemplative space—perfect for winter reflection.
8. Roughting Linn Rock Carvings
Deep within woodland near Wooler sits Roughting Linn, home to ancient rock carvings and a small secluded waterfall. The carvings—spirals and mysterious patterns—feel especially atmospheric in the stillness of winter.
The walk is short, quiet, and beautifully wild.
Why it’s magical at Christmas:
The combination of an untouched waterfall, ancient carvings, and winter woodland feels like discovering your own hidden Yuletide story.
Unwrap Something New This Christmas in Northumberland
This festive season, go beyond the well-known landmarks and unwrap Northumberland’s quieter side. From mysterious caves and ancient carvings to frosty viewpoints and cosy bookshop corners, these hidden gems offer magical winter experiences you’ll remember long after Christmas has passed.
Let this be the year you discover something new—and fall in love with Northumberland all over again.
For more ideas on places to visit and What’s On this time of year, please click here
