Things to do in the North East at Christmas [2025 guide]
Discover festive magic across the North East this Christmas – from markets to light trails to coastal getaways.
From cosy, snow-dusted villages to sparkling city lights and seaside towns brimming with festive cheer, Christmas in the North East is never short on magic. Whether you love sipping mulled wine in a bustling market or taking a frosty walk along the bracing coastline, there's something to warm every heart. (Yes, even the humbugs!)
In fact, there's so much on offer that the only problem is choosing what to do first.
We've made things easier for you by rounding up some of the best Christmas events and days out across Durham, Tyneside, Northumberland and beyond. So, check our list, check it twice, and have fun planning a Christmas to remember.
1. Durham Christmas Festival
Where: Durham city centre
When: Friday 5 to Sunday 7 December
Durham's historic centre is transformed into a winter wonderland during its annual Christmas Festival, which takes place over the first weekend of December.
There's loads to do. Why not explore the craft and food markets in and around the Cathedral or grab a festive bite on Palace Green? You could even while away a few hours simply enjoying the sound of carols echoing through cobbled streets.
It's the perfect blend of tradition and sparkle, framed by one of the most beautiful city skylines in England. And to make matters even more magical, it all draws to a close with the spellbinding Children's Lantern Parade.
Top tip: the festival draws big crowds. If you're hiring a car from MVH Rental, use the Park and Ride or one of the outer car parks.
2. Beamish Museum at Christmas
Where: Beamish, County Durham
When: Late November to December 2025
Take a step back in time at Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, where Christmas is celebrated in true Edwardian style. The town is decked out with traditional decorations, brass bands play festive tunes, and you can hop aboard a heritage tram or horse-drawn carriage.
Children will love visiting Father Christmas in his grotto, while adults can enjoy traditional mulled wine and mince pies by the fireside. Beamish is a magical experience for all ages and a place where some of the best Christmas memories are made.
3. Whitby Christmas Festival
Where: Whitby, North Yorkshire Coast
When: Friday 14 to Sunday 16 November
If you're looking for Christmas with a touch of seaside magic, the enchanting town of Whitby is not to be missed. Each November, the town launches its Christmas Festival with a weekend of live music, artisan stalls and food vendors.
While you're here, why not wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town or enjoy mulled wine by the harbour? Don't miss the Whitby Christmas lights switch-on, either. Afterwards, you can take a bracing walk up the famous 199 steps to Whitby Abbey for a fairytale view of the twinkling lights below.
With its gothic charm, independent shops and welcoming pubs, Whitby in winter is pure enchantment. And better still, it's only a short scenic drive from Durham or Newcastle, making it the perfect coastal road trip when you hire from MVH Rental.
4. Winter Lights at The Alnwick Garden and Lilidorei
Where: Alnwick, Northumberland
When: Thursday 20 November to Sunday 4 January
The Alnwick Garden hosts the best-loved winter lights of the North East. And they're loved for a reason: this is one of the most spectacular Christmas experiences the region has to offer.
The garden is beautiful all year round. But under the glow of the twinkling illuminations, it looks like it's been torn from the pages of a Christmas fairytale.
You'll wander through tunnels of light, glowing trees and illuminated fountains, all while a festive soundtrack plays in the background. Perfect.
Kids will adore the sparkling sculptures and surprise projections, while grown-ups can sip mulled wine and soak in the atmosphere. We recommend booking this one as soon as you can – it's incredibly popular, and rightly so!
5. Christmas at Bamburgh Castle
Where: Bamburgh, Northumberland
When: Saturday 8 November to Sunday 4 January
Perched high above the North Sea, Bamburgh Castle is a breathtaking sight to behold at any time of year. At Christmas, however, it becomes truly extraordinary.
Yes, come each winter, the staterooms are transformed with a new themed display. This year it's Treasured Tales – so expect a tropical Christmas paradise with lots of pirate-themed fun.
Outside, you can enjoy the winter views across the dunes or stop by a local tearoom for a slice of cake with a castle view. If you're travelling by car, be sure to plan a coastal route. That way, the drive itself becomes part of the experience.
Getting around: make the most of your festive road trip
The beauty of Christmas in the North East is that everything is relatively close together. However, reduced winter timetables and unpredictable conditions mean public transport can be patchy during the holidays.
Hiring a car from MVH Rental lets you explore at your own pace, stopping at twinkling coastal towns and rural winter trails as you go.
Heading to the Durham Cathedral lights? Exploring the Newcastle Christmas markets? Taking a snowy drive through Northumberland National Park? Whatever you're up to, having your own set of wheels makes the season shine even brighter.
Metro Vehicle Hire offers flexible short-term rentals – including family cars, SUVs and vans – all at competitive rates. Every vehicle is checked, clean, and winter-ready – leaving you more time to relax and focus on the mince pies, not the mileage.
So, pack the boot, crank up the Christmas playlist, and get ready for a North East Christmas adventure you'll never forget. Explore our Newcastle car rentals online today, or get in touch with our friendly team for a quick quote.
