Celebrate Christmas in Northumberland: Bamburgh Castle & Alnwick Garden Magic

As the festive season draws near, Northumberland transforms into a glittering wonderland, and two of the region’s biggest holiday highlights are Bamburgh Castle and The Alnwick Garden. Staying with us at Brunton House & Cottages gives you a warm, cosy home base from which to explore these enchanting Christmas experiences.

Treasured Tales at Bamburgh Castle

This winter, Bamburgh Castle invites visitors into a magical, storybook world with its “Treasured Tales” Christmas installation. Inside the Castle’s historic state rooms, theatrical designer Charlotte Lloyd Webber and her team have recreated beloved childhood classics — think Aladdin, Jack and the Beanstalk, Treasure Island — all bathed in jewel-like colour, sparkle, and theatrical lighting.

From early November through to 4th January, you can wander the trail through these immersive displays, making it a perfect family outing or a magical evening for couples. On selected Thursday evenings, the Castle also hosts Twilight Christmas tours — drifting through the rooms by atmospheric lighting, ideal for that extra-special festive feel.

For little ones, there’s even Father Christmas in his grotto, complete with a gift, and wreath-making workshops for a hands-on, handmade Christmas moment. Advance booking is essential — the Castle can’t always guarantee grotto tickets on the day.

Christmas at The Alnwick Garden

Just a short journey inland brings you to another festive jewel: The Alnwick Garden. Their Winter Lights trail, running from late November through January, brings the Garden alive with immersive light installations and soundscapes.

Head to Lilidorei, the magical village within the garden, for a heartwarming encounter with Father Christmas in his grotto. Your ticket gives you a private visit plus a special gift, so it’s great for families making festive memories.

Why not treat yourself to something extra? The Garden offers a festive afternoon tea in the Potting Shed at The Treehouse — warm sandwiches, seasonal cakes and scones, and views over wintry gardens make it a lovely indulgent pause. Prefer something more creative? Join a wreath-making workshop in the Pavilion, where you can craft your own bespoke decoration in a truly atmospheric setting.

Why Stay at Brunton House & Cottages?

Staying at Brunton House & Cottages places you perfectly near these two magical destinations. After a day of castle wonder or immersive light trails, you’ll come back to a cosy cottage where you can unwind in front of a crackling fire, brew a hot drink, and reflect on the day’s festive magic.

Whether you’re here just for the weekend or planning a longer holiday, you can easily split your time between coastal charm — with Bamburgh Castle perched above the rugged Northumberland shoreline — and the tranquil, enchanting landscapes of Alnwick Garden. And because the cottages are tucked away in peaceful countryside, they offer a calm retreat from the seasonal bustle.

Book your winter break at Brunton House & Cottages and let the magic of Bamburgh and Alnwick at Christmas be the highlight of your holiday.