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GET OUTDOORS AND ACTIVE THIS WINTER
Christmas is a time to eat, drink and be merry, but to ensure you are in shape for the New Year, why not take advantage of your local National Trust property and enjoy long leisurely walks this winter?
With acres of parkland, miles of countryside and vast areas of coast to enjoy, the properties cared for by the National Trust could serve as your very own green gym as more and more people are looking for new ways to exercise. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or more energetic hike, there are countless fantastic places to explore.
In addition to the miles of footpaths waiting to be discovered, the Trust has put together some special events to encourage the whole family to get outdoors and active over the festive period. Read on for a run down of the top activities we’ve discovered.
Allen Banks and Staward Gorge
Saturday 17 December
Wild Child - Forest Schools, 10am – 3pm
Set in the wonderful woodlands of Allen Banks go wild learning the woodland skills you need to survive outdoors; cooking on a fire, building a shelter, making tools, even making a kazoo and much more. Meet in Allen Banks Car park. Wear wellies, waterproofs and bring food to cook on an open fire. Booking Essential on 01434 607654 for details. National Trust members: adult £10, child £5, non members: adult £14 child £8.
Gibside
Wednesday 21 December, 7pm
Winter Solstice Saunter
Take a break from the Christmas chaos and bring a torch for an after dark exploration of Gibside’s woodlands and ruins on the longest night of the year. Warm up with mulled wine and mince pies. £6, booking essential. Call 01207 541820.
Monday 26 December, 1pm
Boxing Day Breather
Escape the sales and walk off the turkey with a gentle guided stroll around our winter wonderland. Normal admission charges apply. Tel 01207 542 820 for details.
Tuesday 27 to Friday 30 December, 11am to 3pm
Winter Adventure Week
An antidote to weeks of Santa – wrap up cosy and burn off the kids’ energy with a different natural outdoor adventure every day, before warming up indoors at our Mini Gibside Play Hall. Normal admission applies.
Sunday 1 January, 11am
New Year’s Day Boundary Walk
For a refreshing start to 2012, take a 4 mile guided stroll to the furthest reaches of Gibside. Discover the wildlife and stories that make this place so special. Normal admission charges apply.
Hadrian’s Wall and Housesteads Fort
Sunday 18 December, 10am – 5pm
Underground Adventure – Christmas Special
Get into the Christmas spirit with an underground adventure and experience a fantastic day exploring the mine tunnels of Nenthead. The main networks are not open to the public and so this is a great opportunity to explore the tunnels and experience what life would have been like working in the mines. There will be lots to discover on your trip, you can even experience a candle lit dinner in the ballroom. Meet at Nenthead Visitor Centre. Wear old clothes and pair of old gloves and bring a packed lunch. Adventure North East will provide boiler suits, wellies helmets and lamps. Children welcome, 8 years and upwards. Booking essential on 01434 344314 Adult: £18 National Trust (NT) Member, Non Members £25, Child: £10 NT Members, Non Members £15.
Lindisfarne Castle
Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 December & Thursday 29 – Saturday 31 December
Take a bracing Christmas holiday walk on this most beautiful of Northumbrian island. And while you’re here come and see the castle dressed for Christmas. Check for safe crossing times. Tel: 01289 389244 for details. Normal admission charges apply.
Souter Lighthouse
Saturday 31 December, 10am – 3pm
Hogmanay Hike
Join Mick our Head Warden for a walk around Marsden Circular – just what you need after the excesses of Christmas! Meet in the Foghorn Field. £3 per person which includes hot homemade soup and stottie on your return to the Lighthouse. Dogs on leads welcome. Booking not needed. For more information call 0191 5290903.
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