5 of our favourite hot chocolate spots in the North East

‘Tis the season to snuggle up with a mug of sugar-dusted delight.

ETTO ON THE PARK

23-24 Gosforth Centre, Gosforth, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE3 1JZ

This hidden gem tucked away inside Gosforth’s shopping centre is the epitome of cosy, Scandi décor and tranquil vibes – which is what we’re all about, now the rush of Christmas has begun.

And star of the show here is undoubtedly their hot chocolate, served steaming, lathered with cream and topped with a couple of Terry’s chocolate orange segments.

Monday – Saturday: 8am – 5.30pm

Sunday: 9am – 4pm

NORTHUMBERLAND HQ

Vallum Farm, East Wallhouses, Northumberland NE18 0LL

Northumberland HQ rotates on the axes of adventure, discovery and an appreciation for the simpler things in life: local craftsmanship, open countryside and great coffee.

A hub for all things Northumberland, the HQ expertly combines everything from produce from the North East’s finest makers, bakers and roasters, to maps, guidebooks, artwork, camping and even Land Rover Defender hire.

So, if you want an authentic, locally tasting, proper North East hot chocolate, there’s nowhere better.

Thursday – Friday: 8am – 4pm

Saturday: 10am – 4pm

Sunday: 10am – 2pm

RUHE

Roker Park Bandstand, Sunderland SR6 9PL

Just a few hundred yards from Roker Beach, snug bolthole Ruhe is Roker Park’s first permanent coffee shop, and offers an oasis of calm amidst the bustle of this lively Sunderland suburb.

Nordic, boho vibes (with a playlist to match) make sitting inside Ruhe a balm to the soul, especially when it’s a hot chocolate you’ve got in hand. Enjoy it classic or jazz it up to your heart’s content with optional honey, caramel, vanilla, cream and marshmallows.

Monday – Sunday: 8am – 5pm

ECHO 3 COFFEE HOUSE & ROASTERY

11 Clark’s Yard, Darlington DL3 7QH

This quirky, foliage-filled bolthole is a dream hideaway from the stresses of the season.

And while we’re suckers for the freshly roasted, speciality coffee you find in this Darlington café, their hot chocolate offering is pretty fine, too. Especially when paired with one of their home-baked sweet treats.

S’mores cookies, filled with chocolate ganache and homemade marshmallow fluff, anyone?

Tuesday – Saturday: 9am – 3pm

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