With winter closing in, be sure to celebrate the beauty of the season…as the icy breeze blows through the trees, feel the magic in the air!

The winter solstice will be occurring on the 22nd December, marking the shortest day of the year or the longest night of the year! The winter skies are generally the best time for stargazing. The UK can boast no less than 6 National Parks that have been awarded International Dark Sky Reserve status – Brecon Beacons, Exmoor, Moore’s Reserve in the South Downs, Snowdonia, North Yorkshire Moors and Yorkshire Dales, whilst Northumberland National Park  is an International Dark Sky Park (gold tier) and officially has the most ‘pristine dark skies’ in England!

Ingram House B&B, an 18th century former farmhouse is situated in the Northumberland National Park, Dark Sky Park and is in the foothills of the Cheviots. Alnwick Castle and Gardens, Bamburgh Castle and beach and Holy Island are all nearby. A Dark Sky location – Guests can retreat to the Summer House when the night skies permit and wonder at the stars with the help of binoculars or a telescope and a glass of wine or a mug of hot chocolate!

From starry nights to sparkling lights, why not combine a Winter Break with a visit to a Christmas Market? There are many great ones to choose from. Browse our suggestions to get your festive preparations off to an excellent start as well as a selection of superb B&B accommodation nearby.

So, as the countdown to the festive season begins, now is the time to make the most of those fabulous winter’s days…be it walks along the windswept beach or through the frosted woodland to that pub with its roaring fire and warming tipple! Enjoy…

Happy Travelling!

The Bed and Breakfast Nationwide Team