Matfen Hall Hotel Golf & Spa

Rich in heritage, atmosphere and space, the Matfen Hall estate provides an unequalled paradise to stay, spa and golf in, nestled away in the heart of historic Northumberland. Set in over 300 acres of unique parkland, this is a place for couples to relax, families to explore and friends to enjoy.

Boasting an impressive history dating back to the 17th century, today, we look forward to sharing the unmistakable Matfen Hall experience with guests near and far.

With 53 bedrooms, five dining areas to eat and drink in, The Retreat at Matfen Hall to relax in, and a championship golf course to enjoy, we’ll provide you with the opportunity to indulge each one of your senses during your stay with us.

ESCAPE TO MATFEN HALL
A place to rest, unwind, dine and explore, a stay at the Matfen Hall estate isn’t just another event in your calendar, it’s an experience you’ll cherish and speak of long after you leave.

As beautiful as the breathtaking Northumberland landscape that surrounds us, each of our 53 bedrooms have been carefully designed and decorated to reflect the elegance and natural allure of the grand Matfen Hall.

From intimate bedrooms that encapsulate a warm and wonderful home-from-home atmosphere, to impressive stately-sized rooms that invite you to experience luxury like never before, join us and indulge in magnificence.

ROOMS
Each of our rooms provides an up-to-date take on traditional elegance and refinement. From grand furniture to exceptional decor, realise the true meaning of escapism as you overlook the sweeping views of idyll Northumberland waiting beyond the window.

LUXURY ROOMS
Luxury, elegance and exceptional attention to detail lie at the heart of these nine stately-sized rooms. Our Luxury Rooms are located in the Great Hall and provide uninterrupted views of our beautiful surroundings.

Featuring Emperor sized beds and interior-designed individual soft furnishings, as well as marble bathrooms and walk-in showers, these rooms are the ultimate choice when looking for a luxury stay in Northumberland.

DELUXE ROOMS
Step into sophistication as part of your stay in one of our four beautiful Deluxe Rooms. Situated in the Great Hall and Old Hall, each of these rooms benefits from a unique view overlooking our stunning grounds – from Le Jardin Hollandaise to our water fountain.

Complete with bathrooms boasting a bath and shower, alongside a number of luxurious amenities and impressive interior touches, indulge in excellence as part of your stay experience in one of our Deluxe Rooms.

PREMIUM ROOMS
Boasting unrivalled views of our breathtaking surroundings, our four Premium Rooms exude class, refinement and sophisticated comfort.

Located in the magnificent Great Hall under original high ceilings, these rooms benefit from luxurious marble bathrooms, beautiful large windows, and exquisite interior design – along with everything you’ll need to enjoy a relaxing stay in Northumberland.

CLASSIC ROOMS
Filled with character and natural light, our Classic Rooms are furnished with everything you’ll need to enjoy a magnificent stay in the heart of historic Northumberland.

Located in the Old Hall, views include the local steepled church, The Retreat Garden, Matfen Village, and the countryside beyond. Our Classic Rooms boast a carefully considered balance of traditional comfort and contemporary elegance and are a perfect introduction to a stay experience with us.

DINE AT MATFEN HALL
Our restaurants celebrate the union of traditional, classic flavours with an exciting, contemporary approach to ensure dining experiences that leave a lasting impression.

With a premium range of restaurants, bars and bistros offering painstakingly sourced, seasonal menus, you’ll be invited to indulge your taste buds in a variety of ways. From an evening of fine dining to a leisurely Sunday Lunch spent with friends, Matfen Hall is a culinary destination suited to all occasions.

A RANGE OF DINING OPTIONS
With a number of unique spaces available to choose from, where you decide to dine is up to you. Whether you’re looking for sophisticated grandeur to enjoy a romantic dinner, or are in the mood for some serious glamour to set the tone for a few drinks with friends, you’ll find something to suit your style at Matfen Hall.

EMERALD RESTAURANT
Your culinary experience starts the moment you walk into the Emerald Restaurant. Greeted by our high, intricately decorated ceiling and magnificent views across the parkland, the Emerald Restaurant takes pride in its grand but inviting atmosphere.

With a focus on using the finest, carefully sourced ingredients, our imaginative seasonal menus appeal to all the senses as our talented chefs use their creations to highlight the best that our region has to offer.

As our premier dining destination, the Emerald Restaurant provides the perfect backdrop to enjoy a wonderful Breakfast, Afternoon Tea, Evening Meal and Sunday Lunch.

1832
In the heart of Matfen Hall sits 1832; a stylish destination to enjoy a glass of champagne or a signature cocktail as you admire the Northumberland landscape.

Fashioned from rich oak and beautifully intricate plasterwork, 1832’s interior is nothing short of magnificent – helping to create a wonderful atmosphere for our guests to relax into.

Whatever the time of day, 1832 offers an invitation to look forward to. A beautiful setting to enjoy a choice of drinks that makes for an unforgettable afternoon – or, as night falls, dial up the glamour and take a seat for signature drinks and vintage champagnes.

ORANGERY
Perfectly positioned to overlook Matfen Hall estate’s vast parkland, the beautiful glass-paned walls of the Orangery are integral to its warm welcome.

A place to relax with a cup of herbal tea while visiting The Retreat at Matfen Hall, as well as a comfortable destination to catch up with friends over a delicious bistro-style Lunch or Dinner.

The Orangery’s light and bright atmosphere can be enjoyed by all who step through its doors. Here, we serve the finest fresh produce, light bites and classics from the bistro-style Menu, all day, every day.

THE KEEPERS
Overlooking our stunning championship golf course, The Keepers allows both Hotel guests, visitors and members to stroll off the green and into the warm embrace of our purpose-built lodge and patio.

Informal and inviting, look forward to fantastic gastro-pub style food and good company with the backdrop of our golf course.

NEEDHAM
Wander through the Great Hall and you’ll find Needham. With booth seating overlooking Le Jardins Hollandaise, an open fire and a grand oak bar, it’s the perfect rendezvous for drinks or a bite to eat whatever the time of day, all under the watchful eye of our Needham Crest.

A place to relax into conversations with friends; an elegant space to enjoy an evening drink with loved ones; and a space to elevate your bistro-style Lunch into something more memorable – Needham encompasses all of this and more.

AFTERNOON TEA
Indulge in this classic British tradition and well-loved custom at the Matfen Hall estate. Enjoy delicate savoury flavours, delightful hand-crafted sweet treats, a wonderful selection of beverages, and stunning surroundings by taking Afternoon Tea with us.

Adding to the experience, enjoy this quintessentially British tradition in style as you’re seated in either our Emerald Restaurant or magnificent Great Hall. We invite you to sit back and relax with good company and a wonderful selection of sweet and savoury bites at Matfen Hall.

THE RETREAT
A visit to The Retreat at Matfen Hall isn’t simply an hour or two of relaxation away from the stresses of everyday life; it’s the start of a journey for your mind, body and spirit. It symbolises the time you’ve taken to invest in yourself.

It’s a time to pause, rewind and restart in an environment uniquely focused on your wellbeing. A sanctuary of tranquillity, The Retreat invites you to indulge each one of your senses in a harmonious experience that transports you to a state of total wellbeing.

Indulge in Treatments and Rituals tailored to your mind, body and spirit by our specialist therapists, or simply relax and enjoy our pool and poolside thermal suite.

Whether you need to de-stress, recharge and restore a balanced state of mind, or you choose to slip into the pool for an hour of peace and quiet, step into your own haven of tranquillity with a visit to The Retreat.

EXPERIENCE THE RETREAT
With an emphasis on mind, body, and spirit, The Retreat at Matfen Hall is designed to provide Hotel guests and visitors with a complete luxury escape from start to finish.

From our private 15-meter swimming pool and thermal suite, to our advanced fitness area, everything is focused on your relaxation so you can tailor your experience to whatever suits you. The Retreat is here to offer you the sense of calm and escapism you deserve.

SWIMMING POOL
Water meets the sky under our expansive glass roof, allowing the sunlight above to flood over you as you take a dip in our 15-meter swimming pool. Choose to dive into our pool for a few refreshing lengths, or enjoy a leisurely afternoon relaxing around it before taking a quick dip.

AROMATHERAPY ROOM
Start your journey with us in ultimate relaxation as we invite you to loosen your muscles and ease your tired mind with aromatherapy essence, mood lighting, and gentle heat in our aromatherapy room.

STEAM ROOM
A treat for your skin designed to help your circulation and reduce stress levels, our high-humidity steam room is infused with aromatic steam that slowly soothes and heats the body – leaving you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

SAUNA
Our traditional sauna uses dry heat to invigorate the mind, increase blood flow to the skin, and soothe aching muscles, resulting in a completely profound effect both during and after a moment of reflection in the sauna.

ICE COLD BUCKET SHOWER
A cascade of water is delivered in seconds to cool and invigorate the entire body, energising the mind and body and leaving you feeling revitalised ahead of the rest of your day. This experience is most effective following a comforting trip to our sauna or steam room.

MONSOON SHOWER
The ideal experience to indulge in both before and after a journey to one of our thermal suites, enjoy a monsoon shower and take your pick of water patterns and temperatures that will completely refresh and cleanse your skin.

ICE FOUNTAIN
Our ice fountain contains fine, crushed ice which, when applied directly to the skin, cools the body and forces pores to shrink and close upon expelling toxins – leaving your skin looking and feeling clean, clear and fresh.

FITNESS AREA
Work out the way you want in our high-performance fitness area. Featuring the latest, revolutionary state-of-the-art Technogym range, we invite you to boost your capability in our fitness area.

TREATMENTS AND RITUALS
Your pursuit of mindfulness, health and happiness is unique to you.​​ At The Retreat at Matfen Hall, we will work with you to establish your wellbeing priorities, and then prescribe a programme of Treatments and Rituals that will put you at the centre of indulgence and sensation.

The Retreat invites you to indulge each one of your senses as we seek to provide harmony between your mind, body and spirit. A key element to this is understanding where you came from as well as defining your future destination, so we will always begin your journey with us with a unique wellbeing assessment.

Your assessment will be key to providing insight and exploring your wellness potential thoroughly, as well as guiding us towards specific Treatments and Rituals from our luxury partners, ila and Natura Bisse.

RETREAT DAYS
Everyone’s mind, body and spirit are totally unique. At The Retreat, not only do we understand this, we celebrate this. Our Retreat Days are unlike any other spa day – they’re carefully tailored to your individuality, allowing you to indulge in a true state of tranquillity, reflection and refinement.

Our exclusive collection of luxurious, full day experiences have been carefully put together to transform the soul, nourish the mind, and rejuvenate the body.

Starting your Retreat Day with a consultation from one of our specialist therapists to ensure your personal needs are considered, this unique style of spa day is designed to place your mind and body into a state of complete serenity.

Our Retreat Days provide full access to the pool and thermal suites at The Retreat, and include Lunch or Afternoon Tea as well as your chosen Treatment or Ritual from ila and Natura Bissé.

WEDDINGS & EVENTS
At Matfen Hall, we specialise in creating unique experiences for our guests, ensuring every detail is considered and a personal service is delivered to help you make magnificent memories that will last a lifetime.

Having hosted over 20 years of wonderful weddings at Matfen Hall, our award-winning venue has become one of the most outstanding in the North East of England.

Boasting a number of breathtaking areas for couples to host their friends and family, our magnificent estate allows you to begin your special union in the most beautiful place.

We want your special day to exceed your expectations and dreams. That’s why our dedicated team will work closely with you to help deliver a magical wedding day or event that remains totally unique to you.

Working with you from the initial planning process right through to the moment you say ‘I Do’, we’ll take the stress of wedding and events planning away so that you can enjoy your day blissfully stress-free.

WEDDINGS
Our Great Hall provides a grand and beautiful backdrop for your romantic ceremony while the Cloisters and Courtyard create an air of elegance, extravagance and intimacy as guests mingle amongst the iconic architecture, surrounded by stone archways and stained glass windows.

You’ll be invited to indulge in a variety of locally sourced and carefully crafted dishes, before choosing to celebrate with your guests in a wide range of magnificent and memorable locations.

You can count on us to use our expertise and passion for event planning to design and deliver a day as special as you. We treat each occasion with ample dedication and look forward to hearing your vision, so we can make it your reality.

PRIVATE DINING, CORPORATE & SPECIAL EVENTS
Alongside hosting beautiful weddings, our magnificent venue can become the backdrop for a number of other special occasions. From formal corporate events to big birthday celebrations, you can trust our award-winning events team to help you host a day you won’t forget in one of our many events locations.

GOLF
Experience the extraordinary and join us on our championship golf course at Matfen Park. Set in over 300 acres of mature parkland with established burns and woodland, our 27-hole course is rated as one of the finest in the North East of England.

With courses as beautiful as the stunning scenery surrounding them, our challenging Northumberland golf courses are a wonderful place to play for both novices and pros alike.

And, because golf has been at the very heart of Matfen Hall for 30 years, we have a par-3 short course, a golf academy, a driving range and a purpose-built clubhouse to make sure our Hotel guests, visitors and members have the complete golfing experience.

A GOLFER’S PARADISE
Weaving their way across 300 acres of stunning Northumberland scenery, our golf courses are a challenging and wonderful place to play for both novices and pros alike.

With 27 holes of gold standard golf and a 9-hole Par-3 course, we have a range of fantastic options for Hotel guests to play during their stay, as well as visitors and our loyal members to enjoy more regularly as part of our established Golf Club.

THE COURSES
Our championship golf courses; Douglas, Standing Stone and Dewlaw offer an enjoyable test for players of all abilities.

However you choose to play our 27-hole course, you will encounter a mix of challenging features from the dry stone ‘Ha-Ha’ to picturesque water obstacles, which is one of the reasons our impressive course is enjoyed by professionals and amateurs alike.

Situated in an idyllic spot within the beautiful Northumberland countryside, our course is open 7 days a week for the convenience of all golfers.

THE PAR-3
The high-quality 9-hole, Par-3 course is maintained to the same, exacting standards as it’s bigger siblings. A challenging test for accomplished players but also ideal for beginners and those with less experience, our Par-3 course offers a relaxed and informal introduction to the game.

THE ACADEMY AT MATFEN HALL
Proud to boast impressive talent, competitive spirit, and second-to-none coaching, The Academy and Driving Range at the Matfen Hall estate are open to golfers of all ages and abilities.

Working closely with our excellent team of professionals, guests can benefit from our all-year-round, 10-bay Driving Range, Pro-Shop, custom-fit services, golf coaching, and a bite to eat in The Keepers, where you can truly relax in the comfort of our stunning surroundings and take in the magnificent views either before or after your practice session.

THE DRIVING RANGE
The Driving Range complex comprises 10 connected, covered bays and short game practice facilities where we offer one-to-one golf tuition from our fully qualified, PGA Professionals headed up by European Senior Tour Player, John Harrison.

GOLF COACHING
Are you aiming for the PGA Tour or do you just want to make a better contact with the ball? Whatever your golf goals, you’ll find all the coaching you need at The Academy. Our impressive team of PGA professionals are available for individual and group coaching sessions – no matter your age, experience, or ability.

CUSTOM FIT
It goes without saying that your golfing equipment should fit you properly. After all, the right club works with your swing to produce the best results and avoids the need to adjust your natural style to compensate for that badly fitting club.

At Matfen Hall, our team of PGA professionals will work with you to ensure you are well-equipped and well-fitted to hit the course.

PRO-SHOP
From clothes and shoes to brollies and balls, our Pro-Shop is proud to stock a wide range of items from the most desirable brands in the industry. As expert advisors, our Golf Team will assist you in choosing the equipment that’s right for you or to gift a friend.

EXPERIENCE THE INCREDIBLE
Bursting with unspoilt beaches, fascinating history, inspiring countryside and incredible wildlife, Northumberland is a place that demands to be walked on, discovered, enjoyed and adored.

Soak up its culture, hold your gaze that little bit longer and allow yourself to be overwhelmed by remarkable beauty during your escape to Northumberland, with us.

Regardless of whether you’re keen to delve deep into its captivating history, prefer to spend your time exploring its vast wilderness, or look forward to days spent lounging on beautiful sandy beaches and evenings under the stars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Northumberland.

For the explorer, the hiker, the family, the group of friends, the wildlife enthusiast and more, Northumberland is brimming with experiences ready for you to immerse yourself in. Home to wild landscapes, rugged scenery, and vast open spaces there’s so much for you to do during your North East adventure.

The list of things to do in Northumberland is endless. Whether you opt for life in the fast lane with a surfing experience in the North Sea, or prefer a quieter pace of adventure with stargazing opportunities in some of the darkest skies in Europe, you can do it all and more from within reach of Matfen Hall.

JAMES STOKOE TYNE RIVER FISHING

Winner of BBC’s fishing programme, Earth’s Wildest Waters, James Stokoe has grown up fishing on the Tyne River, developing a love for the sport that’s now turned into his way of life.

Now a full-time, professional salmon fishing guide in England, he invites you to experience fishing in Northumberland with him and learn from his expert knowledge while enjoying the great outdoors. We’re pleased to be able to offer our guests guided days fishing on stretches of this River

HORSE RIDING

Explore Northumberland on horseback and enjoy the beauty of this county from a height. With so much space and different choice of treks available – from rural countryside walks to beach canters – whether you’re a novice or experienced rider, you can look forward to an afternoon exploring Northumberland from a different view.

The Sinderhope Pony Trekking Centre is based on a traditional working hill farm in Northumberland and is surrounded by miles of beautiful moorland and wildlife.

There are various treks available to suit all ages and abilities, whether you choose to ride over moorland or through dales on their cobs and native type ponies.

FALCONRY DAYS

Get up close and personal with a range of owls, hawks, eagles, falcons and vultures as part of an experience at the Falconry Days activity centre. Here, you’ll be able to take part in flying a variety of different birds yourself – making for a brilliant hands-on experience that the whole family can enjoy.

HUNTING & SHOOTING

For those of you looking to stay active during your countryside retreat, Northumberland offers a range of different pursuits, including hunting and shooting. With trips available to accommodate all skill levels, from beginner to experienced, we can help organise a trip tailored to each individual’s taste.

STARGAZING

Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is internationally recognised as Europe’s largest area of protected night sky and, having been awarded Gold Tier designation by the International Dark Sky Association, is officially England’s best spot to enjoy star gazing.

Located in the heart of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is Kielder Observatory, a beautiful place where the whole family can come to and explore the night sky using their incredible telescope. With an exciting programme of astronomical events throughout the year, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

BIRD WATCHING

Enjoy some of the best bird-watching spots in the country during your escape to Matfen Hall. Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines are a fantastic place to see black grouse, golden plover and other moorland specialities, and you’ll find crossbills and secretive goshawks in woodlands such as Kielder Water & Forest Park.

The county’s rivers are also home to dipper, goosander, common sandpiper and grey wagtail.

Further afield, the Farne Islands are famously home to puffins, in addition to terns, razorbills, kittiwakes, shags and guillemots, and from close-by Coquet Island you can catch a glimpse of Britain’s rarest breeding seabird, the Roseate Tern.

CYCLING

The breathtaking nature, long stretches of quiet roads, and dramatic Northumberland scenery makes our county the perfect place for both adventurous road cycling and leisurely family day rides.

For mountain bikers, you can enjoy Northumberland Park’s purpose-built trails or bridleway – or perhaps look to explore Hadrian’s Wall on two wheels. Complete with its dramatic scenery, quiet trails and unique historical sites, there’s certainly no better route.

GO APE

The multi award-winning and original forest adventure is set high up in the tree canopy just a stone’s throw away from Matfen Hall. Enjoy two to three hours in the trees, taking on Zip Wires, Tarzan Swings, Rope Ladders and a variety of obstacles and crossings during your fun-filled family adventure.

GOLF

With courses as beautiful as the stunning scenery surrounding them, our challenging Northumberland golf courses at Matfen Park are a wonderful place to play for both novices and pros alike. During your stay with us, you can benefit from preferential golf rates. Simply enquire with the Golf Team to book.

FEEL INSPIRED AT EVERY TURN
Northumberland is a place of rare beauty. A place that takes your breath away and stays with you long after you leave. With so many incredible things to see during your escape to Matfen Hall, you’ll leave this beautiful county with a treasure chest of wonderful memories and a burning desire to return.

While just a short distance away from vibrant Newcastle Upon Tyne, our unique setting is far from busy city life.

Rich in heritage, atmosphere, and space, we proudly stand in the heart of Northumberland – offering visitors a perfect pathway to experience stunning coastlines, captivating castles, and charming countryside.

CHESTERS ROMAN FORT

A picture-perfect piece of history located on Hadrian’s Wall, Chesters Roman Fort is widely recognised as the best-preserved Roman cavalry fort in Britain. For those curious to learn about what life might have been like 2,000 years ago, this astonishing landmark is the place to go.

Discover what would have been the officers’ quarters, explore the original, well-preserved baths and steam room, along with a number of astonishing Roman objects and inscriptions at the Clayton Museum. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 10 miles

VINDOLANDA

Located just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall and dating back to the third century, Vindolanda remains one of Europe’s most fascinating and important archeological sites.

Showcasing a snapshot of Roman life, the impressive remains include; the headquarters building, the fort walls, the Commanding Officer’s house, granaries and barracks, in addition to extensive remains of a settlement which comprises houses, shops, a tavern and bath house. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 20 miles

HADRIAN’S WALL

Built 2,000 years ago and now recognised as a globally-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hadrian’s Wall stretches 73 miles coast-to-coast and dominates the wild and beautiful Northumberland landscape.

Whether you choose to visit this astonishing landmark during a walking expedition, on a journey of historical interest, or simply just to see it, there’s no doubt you’ll leave feeling impressed and eager to return.

Built by a force of 15,000 men in under six years with a view to guard the wild, north-west frontier of the Roman Empire, it’s as astounding today for its required vision as it is for its skilled engineering.

Consisting of milecastles, barracks, ramparts and forts against a dramatic backdrop, Hadrian’s Wall is a unique, must-see monument based just a few short miles from Matfen Hall. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 2 miles

HEXHAM ABBEY

Proudly standing as one of the earliest seats of Christianity in England, the site of Hexham Abbey comprises 1,300 years of dramatic history in the beautiful Northumberland market town of Hexham.

Today, it’s home to a wealth of artefacts that are able to be enjoyed by the public, with a number of fascinating exhibits and hands-on experiences to enjoy for the whole family. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 11 miles

HEXHAM OLD GAOL

Experience what life was like for prisoners in the 1300s as you step into the oldest purpose-built prison in England. Located in the heart of Hexham, Hexham Old Gaol stood as a prison for nearly 500 years.

Pay a visit if you dare and descend into the dungeon, learn about the Reivers family history, try the stocks, and imagine what a prisoner’s fate would look like while awaiting trial in nearby Moothall. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 11 miles

AYDON CASTLE

Set in the secluded Northumberland woodland, Aydon Castle is over 900 years old and acts as one of the finest, unaltered examples of a 13th century manor house.

A hidden gem located a mere stone’s throw away from Hadrian’s Wall, this perfect picnic spot will provide you and your family with the perfect day out. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 5 miles

PRUDHOE CASTLE

Set on a wooded hillside overlooking the picturesque River Tyne below, this fairytale castle was built as part of a series of Norman castles after the Norman conquest in 1066 and was occupied for over 9 centuries.

Having withstood two sieges during the 1170s – making it the only Northumberland castle to completely resist the Scottish forces – this impressive, long-lived fortress is one not to be missed during your Northumberland adventure. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 9 miles

HARESHAW LINN WATERFALL

A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and one of Northumberland’s best short walks, this picturesque stroll takes you through ancient woodland and past rare plant life, before the impressive 30ft high waterfall greets you at the end of the trail. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 17 miles

KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK

Hidden away in one of the most remote corners of the country, Kielder is home to England’s largest forest area and the biggest man-made lake in Northern Europe.

A playground for adventurers, cyclists, walkers, water-sports enthusiasts and more, this beautiful area provides the perfect balance for those looking for a moment of tranquillity in nature, alongside the promise of having plenty of activities to do to keep you busy. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 36 miles

KIELDER OBSERVATORY

Hidden away in the heart of Kielder Water and Forest Park sits arguably one of the most remarkable places to visit in the UK. Situated in the largest gold tier-protected dark sky park in the whole of Europe, Kielder Observatory offers sky gazing opportunities like no other.

Providing astronomers with a permanent facility in the heart of Northumberland, the Observatory is a brilliant place for people of all different ages to come and explore. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 37 miles

THE SILL

A hub for rural economy, a base for education, and a celebration of the Northumberland landscape, The Sill is a National Landscape Discovery Centre in Northumberland National Park.

Built to inspire visitors of all ages to explore the history, culture, landscape and heritage that our beautiful region of Northumberland offers, The Sill features exhibitions, learning and event spaces, a local food café, a world-class Youth Hostel, rooftop walk, and a shop specialising in local crafts and produce. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 20 miles

BLACK MIDDENS BASTLE HOUSE

Unique to Northumberland and the Scottish Borders, Bastle Houses are important relics which bear witness to a time when Northumberland was a lawless land.

Located in an isolated spot on the north side of the Tarset Valley, Black Middens Bastle House is the starting point of a fantastic, historic walking route that takes visitors past a number of examples of the valley’s fortified farmhouses, built to protect people and valuable livestock from robbery and violence during the time of border reivers. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 24 miles

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE

One of the friendliest and most iconic cities in Britain, Newcastle upon Tyne offers visitors a whole host of different cultural experiences to enjoy.

From museums and art galleries to theatres and sporting arenas, this city will inspire you with a whole range of things to admire and attractions to keep you busy during your day visit.

Admire Grey’s Monument (erected in homage to Earl Grey – the very man who also has a tea named after him), stroll over the Tyne Bridge, walk along the quayside, spend a day at Europe’s largest shopping and leisure centre – Metro Centre – and more. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 17 miles

CORBRIDGE

Surrounded by rolling countryside and beautiful stone cottages, the handsome market town of Corbridge is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Northumberland. Stay in the heart of the town and explore vintage-inspired cafes, traditional country pubs, fantastic family bakeries and quaint book shops.

Or, choose to wander towards the riverside trail and enjoy stunning views of the impressive seven-arched bridge spanning the River Tyne. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 6 miles

HOLY ISLAND OF LINDISFARNE

Prepare to be impressed as you journey across the causeway to the beautiful Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

Cut off from the mainland twice a day by the fast-moving tide and internationally famous for both its medieval religious heritage and its more recent picturesque 16th century castle, this beautiful island boasts mesmerising history, incredible views across to Bamburgh Castle, and brilliant coffee and cake spots to enjoy during your day visit. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 62 miles

FORD & ETAL

Referred to locally as the hidden gems in Northumberland, the Ford and Etal Estates are set in the valley of the River Till, just a few miles inland from Holy Island and Bamburgh.

While you’re there, visit the ruined Etal Castle, walk across the world-famous Flodden Battlefield, wander down the beautiful main street and try not to be tempted by the array of local cafe spots and Northumberland’s only thatched-roof pub.

For the perfect family day out, ride a steam train, stroke a heavy horse, learn how the power of water is harnessed to produce flour, or discover a Victorian schoolroom. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 52 miles

YEAVERING BELL

Bring the iron age to life with a visit to Yeavering Bell – Northumberland’s largest iron age hillfort on the very edge of the Cheviot Hills. Climb to the top and look out onto spectacular views of the rolling Cheviots in one direction, and the beautiful North Sea in the other.

What’s more, if you’re lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the elusive herd of wild goats that still graze the area, thought to have been brought over to Britain in the Neolithic times. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 48 miles

ST. OSWALD’S CHURCH AT HEAVENFIELD

While the present St. Oswald’s Church dates from 1817, this beautiful building’s impressive history goes back far beyond this.

Having replaced a medieval church which, in turn, sat on the presumed site of the 7th century church commemorating the site of the Battle of Heavenfield where, this tranquil hilltop church marks one of the most important sites in early northern Christianity.

It’s also widely believed that the church site, or its locality, sits on top of an early monastery, founded by the same King Oswald who permitted the establishment of Lindisfarne monastery a year or two later – making it an impressive and important landmark to visit for those keen to explore Northumberland’s deep history. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 8 miles

OTTERBURN

Set in the magnificent Redesdale Valley, the small village of Otterburn sits as home to a medieval castle manor and the historical Otterburn Mill. Vibrant and picturesque, this quiet village has a violent history set against the peaceful landscape of the Redesdale Valley.

With animals and birds thriving in the nearby Otterburn Ranges – an area that covers nearly a quarter of Northumberland National Park – a trip to this beautiful village and unspoilt landscape shouldn’t be missed during your trip to Northumberland. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 20 miles

SYCAMORE GAP

One of Northumberland’s most famous and most photographed landmarks, Sycamore Gap sits in a dramatic dip along a stretch of Hadrian’s Wall.

Located next to Roman Milecastle 39 (otherwise known as Castle Nick due to its position in a nick in the hillside), to get to this beautiful tree you’ll enjoy a wonderful walk along Hadrian’s Wall with stunning views across Northumberland’s rolling countryside. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 20 miles

ALLEN BANKS AND STAWARD GORGE

The largest area of ancient woodland surrounding a steep-sided gorge of the River Allen, Allen Banks and Staward Gorge comprises miles of waymarked paths and wonderful scenery and is the perfect place to go for a walk.

Enjoy the enchanting woodland, watch the wildlife surrounding you and listen to the peaceful trickling sound of the River Allen. Distance from Matfen Hall: approx 20 miles

Website: www.matfenhall.com

Rooms: 53

Price: from 287 EUR per night