January
Unwind from a hectic Christmas, or enjoy the peace and quiet of Stagshaw to make New Year resolutions and plan for the year ahead. Brisk walks in the cold, or snow if you are lucky, are rewarded by the warm glow of our open fire and wood burner. Snowdrops on the drive.

February
It’s a short month, there is often a good deal to be had and what could be more romantic than waking up in our huge master bedroom on Valentine’s day. If you are a foodie, you may also have more luck in getting a table at the acclaimed local Michelin Star restaurant Pine (10 minutes drive). https://www.restaurantpine.co.uk

March
The days are getting longer and the true majesty of Stagshaw is revealed in the early Spring light. Kids are still at school, traffic is light and the Geordies will still be dreaming of silverware – it’s a great time to visit Northumberland.

April
Lambs are in the fields and daffodils coming in to full flower. Easter is always fun and for those who enjoy a Church service, our Chapel opens on the first Sunday of every month from April to November and on Easter Day and Christmas day.

Hexham Book Festival takes place between Friday 24th April and Sunday 3rd May with a packed schedule of events and talks. https://www.hexhambookfestival.co.uk

May
The Westfield Wood, a short walk from your front door, is a delight of colour and fragrance as the Rhododendrons come out in full blossom.

The Northumberland County Show takes place on the 23rd May 2026 at Bywell, near Stocksfield, about 15 minutes drive from Stagshaw. https://northcountyshow.co.uk

For those of a more equestrian leaning, Belsay International Horse trials are on the last weekend of the month. Belsay is about 20 minutes drive. https://belsayhorsetrials.co.uk

If you fancy a trip to the coast, May is an excellent time to see the breeding puffins on a boat trip to Farne Islands. Boat trips from Sea Houses, where there is also no shortage of excellent fish and chips. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/farne-islands/things-to-do-on-the-farne-islands

June
The start of the Garden Open season and we host a day on Sunday 7th June 2026 in aid of the Red Cross. The gardeners have worked all year and with a bit of help from mother nature and the weather the garden should be in full flower, either way enjoy the sumptuous teas!

If you fancy something stronger, the Tynedale Beer & Cider Festival, a fundraising event, takes place at the Tyndale Rugby Club in Corbridge between 18th -20th June 2026. https://www.tynedalebeerfestival.org.uk

July
Summer is hopefully in full swing and it is a great time to be out and about across the UK. Long days and warm evenings herald a long cool drink outdoors in the West Wing Garden, or a game of tennis by prior appointment on our spectacularly located court in front of the formal terraces.

August
The roads are packed in Norfolk, prices rocket in Cornwall, the midges rule in Scotland, the place to be is Northumberland. Head to the coast, visit Alnwick Gardens, be inspired by Cragside, go down memory lane at Beamish, walk along Hadrian’s Wall, enjoy Kielder… return to the tranquil and comfort of the West Wing. Repeat.

September
A great month for reunions and enjoying the many delights Northumberland has to offer with a little less hustle and bustle post the end of the Summer Holidays. We love walks at Druridge Bay (40 minutes away) or travelling a little further to the Ship Inn at Newton by the Sea, or Bamburgh Castle.

For those of a more active bent the Great North Run takes place on the 13th September 2026, the world’s largest half marathon with 60,000 participants running through the heart of Newcastle. https://www.greatrun.org/events/great-north-run/

October
Autumn is spectacular in Northumberland. The trees have turned, the colours are amazing and it is a great time to enjoy the local historic towns of Corbridge and Hexham or walk along the banks of the Tyne. Newcastle is also just 30 minutes away by local train or car. May be even take in a performance at the wonderful Newcastle Theatre Royal which always has a great repertoire of excellent shows: https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk

November
Christmas lights are out in Corbridge and Hexham and the Tyne Valley is feeling festive. Take advantage of some low season pricing to spoil yourself for a few days in the West Wing. Early morning frosts, walks along empty beaches, great views from the Wall and then treat yourself to a cosy meal at the many wonderful local pubs and restaurants across the region.

December
It’s Christmas time – what’s not to like. A time to celebrate with family or friends, or to escape to somewhere new. A Christmas tree will await your arrival at the West Wing and if you enjoy going to Church, it is rather special to walk through the woods to St Aidan’s Chapel and join our family service at 10.00am