Tour of the North: Psst…These NE staycation spots are perfect for a winter break

The Cabin

Readers of our first North East staycation edit will remember the stylish Cabin, offering a chance to go truly off-grid in exceptional style. Now, the team behind the Manfield-based cabin have opened a second, ultra-luxe place to stay—and it’s top of our staycation wish list. Housed in a sleek shipping container and surrounded by lush greenery, The Cabin has been decorated to the highest standard will sleek modern fittings and décor throughout. As you hunker down for some serious relaxation-time, you’ll delight in gazing out from floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and even be treated to the breath-taking view of surrounding tranquil fields from a window adjacent to your king-size bed. This is the place to switch off and reconnect with nature, as although Darlington is a mere fifteen minutes away should you need, the cabin is surrounded by rolling fields as far as the eye can see. In addition to a chic bedroom, dining and lounge area, the outdoor amenities are equally as impressive. A large hot tub allows you to take in the view outside, as you indulge in a blissful soak. With picturesque walks and plentiful local attractions such as Raby Castle, this getaway makes the perfect base for a winter adventure.

@thecabinsyorkshire

Photography by GASP Photo Co

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Alnmouth Huts

If you find solace by the sea, you’ll adore an escape at Alnmouth’s shoreside huts. You really couldn’t get much closer to the sea if you tried, stepping out from these unique beach huts and straight onto the sand. Dreamt-up by award winning architects Elliots, artist-come-joiner Adam Clarke and the Old School Gallery, these boutique camping-style huts offer unparalleled views of the Northumbrian coast, looking across to Coquet Island. Located on the St Oswald’s Way coastal path, this is a stay for those who like to be at one with nature, as although just a ten minute walk from Alnmouth, there is no vehicle access or parking at the camp site, meaning you’ll get the chance to embrace car-free exploring. When you’re not taking in the views of the beautiful surrounding area, you’ll feel lovely and cosy in the super-insulated huts, which each have a wood burner for extra warmth. Camping lovers that have decided it’s now slightly too chilling for the great outdoors will adore this practical-yet-boutique alternative accommodation. Sip on a cup of tea made in your small but stylish kitchen, which equipped with all the essentials for you to prepare a simple meal. Outside the huts you’ll relish in siting peacefully, taking to the sounds of the sea and awe-inspiring landscape. Should you fancy a romantic night dining under the stars, there’s even an outdoor fire-pit for tasty BBQing. As much as these huts offers a chance to kick back and do nothing more than lookout to the horizon, Alnmouth has a range of wonderful culinary offerings including Scotts facebook and the popular Beaches, beachesrestaurant.co.uk if you did want to eat out. As the site runs along the coastal path, it is unfortunately not ideally suited to wheelchair users or for people with restricted mobility. It’s advised in the winter months to check in while it’s light, bringing along torches and good walking boots or wellies so you’re well-equipped for exploring.

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Crofter’s Cabin

You will thoroughly enjoy the many modern comforts this stylishly decorated cabin has to offer, whilst at the same time relishing in feeling away from it all, surrounded by greenery in the enchanting forests of Northumberland. The rusticly-chic Crofter’s Cabin has a plethora of unique treats including gorgeous veranda on which to sit whilst reflecting and relaxing, a perfectly quaint hanging swing from a nearby tree, a warming fire pit and luxe ‘love tub’—all of which invite you make the most of the outdoors. From your base at Crofter’s cabin you can strike out straight from the front door onto local walking trails, or go further afield to explore the nearby coastal path or Kielder Forest. The Cabin is within reach of traditional local pubs, perfect to frequent for dinner and there’s a number of farm shops nearby bursting with local produce to cook-up for a chilled-out evening in.

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Beacon Hill Shepard’s Huts

A true haven for a glamping-style holiday for two, Beacon Hill has the choice of three stunning Shepard’s huts, each set in natural splendour—perfect for a romantic getaway. Poised upon a south-facing wildflower meadow, these idyllic hideaways are furnished to an impeccable standard. At thirty feet long, you will enjoy three rooms, westerly-facing terraces and superior views of Beacon’s 360 acre estate. There’s no need to worry about feeling a chill in these huts, as each is wonderfully warm year-round. Plus, there’s a log-burning stove for good measure and you’ll enjoy the home comforts of great Wi-Fi, Bluetooth speaker, digital radio and Smart TV. From your bed, you can look through a large window towards the charming beech woods and lake beyond. As if the delights of these luxe-hut’s weren’t enough to ensure a hassle-free arrival, a bottle of wine, flowers, cake, milk and other essentials are also provided as a welcome gift. Logs and kindling are included and outside each hut there is a fire-pit for nights spent toasting marshmallows under the starry sky. Better yet, each hut is a mere stroll away from Beacon Hill’s very own spa and swimming facilities. The Hideaways are available for two and three night weekend breaks and two and four night midweek breaks. If desired, (and we wouldn’t blame you) you can stay for the week.

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South Causey

Nestled in one hundred acres of beautiful Beamish Valley countryside, the South Causey Inn offers an idyllic environment for a relaxing country getaway, perfect for couples and families alike. Taking a boutique approach to décor, you’ll find no bog-standard rooms here—it’s Instagrammable interiors throughout. There’s everything from a 1960s double-decker bus converted into one-of-a-kind accommodation to a tree-adorned vintage-esque bedroom. Deluxe outdoor hot tubs add a touch of the luxurious for those wanting a premium staycation. Better yet, pet lovers will adore the four-legged-friendly rooms available, with acres of grounds and the nearby Beamish Valley to explore—whether you’re with furry friends or without. In the bar and snug area you’ll find delicious homemade food served in beautiful surroundings, and you can even explore an on-site antique boutique for some relaxing retail therapy.

Photography by  djmphotography

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The Stables at Brinkburn

If you’re looking for a stay that errs on the side of luxury, may we suggest the impressive, five star-rated Stables, located in a secluded wooded ravine on the bank of the River Coquet. Part of the historic Brinkburn Estate, this traditional yet stylish property boasts modern, deluxe interiors. The 12th Century Brinkburn Priory is right on your doorstep, and The Stables are ideally situated right in the heart of Northumberland, just ten minutes from the beautiful National Trust property at Cragside and with easy access to the coast and Castles, Cheviot Hills, Northumberland National Park, and Hadrian’s Wall. Guests have access to 30 acres of wood land, perfect for autumnal walks looking out for local wildlife including kingfishers, otters, salmon and more. The Stables has stunning exposed stone walls, in keeping with the history of the building—with solid oak floors with underfloor heating. There’s a spacious but incredibly cosy lounge, with comfortable sofas and a magnificent wood burning stove, a library of books for all ages and mod-cons such has a large screen smart TV and superfast Broadband. In the airy and light dining room a table seats up to ten guests, looking out to the pretty patio area and woodland beyond. The village of Longframlington is a mere five minutes’ drive away and boasts an artisan bakery and coffee shop, butchers and traditional pub. Rothbury is just ten minutes away by car, offering an abundance of shops and pubs to visit.

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