Explore Northumberland & Beyond
Discover the stunning Northumberland countryside, outstanding coastline or historic Hadrian’s Wall by car, cycle or on foot – something to inspire everyone.
Matfen Village
The Estate works in partnership with the local community to support the village shop, hall, sports ground and children’s play area helping to make Matfen a vibrant rural community.
The estate has in the past provided land for low cost rental housing in the village and continues to provide a range of rental properties, including employees housing, to ensure the village maintains a balance of families living in the community.
Things To Do
Matfen Estate is located deep in Roman Wall country, traversed by footpaths and bridleways, sitting close to Hadrian’s Wall (a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wildlife watching, nature walks and cycle trails unfold from the doorsteps of our holiday lets – so whether you want to stick close to home or head a little further afield, adventures await.
Cycling
Cyclists will relish the challenge of Hadrian’s Cycleway which offers incredible scenery through its entire length. Not for the faint hearted at 174 miles, but with plenty of scope to ride small sections at a more relaxed pace.
Explore the Dragon Cycling Trail at Wallington Hall, a safe family route where you may be lucky enough to spot one of the resident red squirrels
Walking
The Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail follows the course of the Roman barrier along its entire length and is one of Britain’s most popular long distance walks, however there are also many shorter circular walks suitable for all ages and abilities.
Wallington Hall covers over 13,000 acres with gentle woodland strolls to more extensive hikes. The Northumberland Coastal Path is a more gentle walk with fantastic view of the stunning coastline and out to Holy Island and beyond.
Explore Local History
For history buffs, Aydon Castle, a fortified manor house dating back to 1298, situated right on the doorstep. The Estate is a perfect base from which to explore Hadrian’s Wall including Chesters Roman Fort, Housesteads Fort and Vindolanda which are steeped in Roman history and offer a fascinating insight into Roman life on the edge of the empire 2000 years ago. Here you can see in incredible 3D detail what life was like on the wall in the life of a Roman soldier, and discover latest artefacts, including the world famous Vindolanda writing tablets.
Activities To Try
The Estate plays host to a number of independent activity providers so our visitors can have adventures close to home.
Golf at Matfen Hall
Gold standard facilities in a parkland setting, or you can perfect your swing at the golf academy.
Turbo Ventures
Tank experiences, quad biking, target shooting, archery, paintballing, clay pigeon shooting.
Go Ape
A treetop challenge with high platforms, speedy zips and stomach-churning Tarzan Swings.
Places To Go
Matfen Estate is located deep in Roman Wall country, traversed by footpaths and bridleways, sitting close to Hadrian’s Wall (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Wildlife watching, nature walks and cycle trails unfold from the doorsteps of our holiday lets – so whether you want to stick close to home or head a little further afield, adventures await.
Corbridge & Hexham
Local towns with a huge amount of offer with a good selection of shops, many historical and cultural attractions.
Cragside House
Offers a captivating day out for the family where you can discover the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity.
Alnwick
Home to the Duke of Northumberland. With its rich history, exquisite art, beautiful gardens, and film location for Harry Potter.
Kielder Water
Something for everyone including water sports enthusiasts, cyclists, walkers, naturalists, artists, families and photographers.
Northumbrian Coast
Some of the cleanest and emptiest beaches in England can be found on Northumberland’s spectacular Heritage Coastline.
Newcastle upon Tyne
A trip to the city of Newcastle with its amazing Millennium bridge and the fantastic glass Sage building for music.
Food, Drink & Local Services
A selection of local delights in close proximity to our luxurious holiday cottage
Village Store
The village store and Dulicissima Coffee House and Deli in Matfen offers warm, dog friendly service with patio garden area.
Vallum Farm
Incredible businesses on site, including a Michelin star restaurant, gym, café, and marque for events.
Robin Hood Inn
The Robin Hood Inn offers a delicious mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine, local ales and fine wines.
Black Bull
High House Farm
A local brewery and fully licenced coffee shop, selling bottled & cask ale available for collection or local delivery.
Stay With Us
See links below to our fantastic luxury holiday cottages which have been renovated to a high standard and are set in the fantastic Northumberland countryside.
The Gingan
A former threshing barn, sensitively restored to create a four bedroom holiday cottage.
The Granary
A two bedroom cottage barn conversion with plenty of old school character.
Aydon Castle Cottage
Off the beaten track, this two bedroom property is located opposite Aydon Castle.
East End Cottage
A quintessential Grade II listed cottage in the heart of the pretty village of Matfen.
Shepherds House
A farmhouse and courtyard conversion, in a hamlet in Hadrian’s Wall Country.