Winter days out in the North East

Whether you’re looking for a new place to explore or want to blow away the cobwebs on a winter walk, we've plenty of places open this winter for you to enjoy. Head for the unspoilt Northumberland coast, visit a hardy winter garden to see what's in bloom or find an outdoor adventure to stretch your legs.

Family walking at Cragside

Cragside 

Grab your wellies and avoid the winter blues with a walk in the fresh air at Cragside. Theres 14 routes to choose from taking you up hills, around lakes and through woods. Explore the formal gardens, get lost in the Labyrinth and let off some steam at the adventure play area. With the visitor centre, tea rooms and café all open, you can enjoy a full day out this winter.

Visit Cragside this winter
Visitors enjoying hot drinks at the Stables at Gibside

Gibside 

Open throughout the winter, Gibside's 600 acres of woodland and parkland offer a perfect spot for a winter adventure. Kick start the New Year with a 5km parkrun, feed the birds in the wildlife hide or join fascinating tour. Little ones can burn off some energy at Strawberry Castle play area. Afterwards you can warm up in the cafe with hot drinks and seasonal treats.

Have a winter adventure at Gibside
Cycling at Wallington, Northumberland

Wallington 

Blow away the cobwebs and head out on the Dragon Cycle trail at Wallington. Put the Christmas presents to good use and bring your own bike or hire your wheels from the cycle hire hut. If you prefer two feet to two wheels, take a stroll along the River Wansbeck on the river walk. Keep your eyes peeled for the estate's otters and red squirrels and round off your day with a visit to the cosy Clocktower café.

Stretch your legs at Wallington
Visitors walking with their dog at Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland
Embleton and Newton Links   Northumberland

Winter on the Northumberland Coast

Find a moment of peace and breathe in the sea air on the Northumberland Coast's empty stretches of silver sands in winter. Take a walk alongside the wildlife-rich dunes at Embleton and Newton links.

Enjoy a refreshing day on the Northumberland Coast
A view from Housesteads Fort

Hadrian's Wall 

Winter is the best time to visit Hadrian's Wall to enjoy Northumberland's Dark Sky park for a spot of stargazing. Or set out on a more challenging walk, visiting the iconic Sycamore Gap along the way.

Try a new adventure at Hadrian's Wall
A family runs towards the red and white striped tower of Souter Lighthouse in wintry sunshine

Souter Lighthouse and the Leas  

Set off on a winter wander and explore the Leas, two and a half miles of magnesian limestone cliffs overlooking the dramatic North Sea. Hear seabirds chattering on the rocks and sea stacks that line the England Coast path or stop by the bird observatory at Whitburn Coastal Park and watch the wildlife stock up for winter. With the Lighthouse café open every day throughout winter, you can pop in for a warm and a refuel on your adventures.

Plan a visit