A marvellous May half term
Doesn't it feel like spring has finally sprung with Britain bursting into bloom and freckle-covered faces aplenty! The fast-approaching May half term offers the opportunity for families to escape together for some pre-summer adventures.
We have rounded up some of the best family friendly events for the May half term in the Scottish Borders, Northumberland and East Lothian. It must be said that May is looking mighty fine in this corner of the country with lots of super events on the half term horizon!
What to do this half term...
Amble Puffin Festival
Monday 28th May
The Amble Puffin Festival celebrates everything puffin! Have you heard what baby puffins are called? Prepare for cuteness overload....... pufflings! Head to Amble for a weekend of fun and activities during the best time of the year to see the Coquet Island puffins as they care for their newly hatched pufflings. You’ll find many events on offer including guided nature walks, bird watching, arts and crafts, water sports and live music.
The Alnwick Joust
Saturday 26th - Tuesday 29th May
Head to historic Alnwick Castle this half term to witness "one of medieval Alnwick's most thrilling spectacles as armoured knights engage in full combat on horseback". Masterful knights from across the land are sure to keep young and old enthralled as they do battle in a 15th Century Jousting Tournament.
Canteen Street Food Festival
26th May (and the last Saturday of every month from March - September)
Experience the family-friendly carnival atmosphere at this street food festival within the Archerfield Walled Garden. Featuring some of the UK's most acclaimed street food traders, “there’s more than just the finger-licking food on offer with open-air cocktail bar, resident DJs setting the soundtrack, acres of landscaped grounds and gardens to explore, The Fairy Trail and play area for kids as well as the Gift Shop and Food Market supporting local producers. We always have a few surprises thrown in from live music to breakdance battles, microbrewery tours and kids' art areas".
Where to stay this half term...
Sleeping 2 guests
The Potting Shed, Earlston, Scottish Borders NOW BOOKED
Officially sleeping two but with a small second bedroom with travel cot or deluxe single bed available, this cute and quirky option is perfect for small families who fancy a taste of the good life. You’ll find the owner’s free-range chickens pecking in the surrounding gardens and a wonderful selection of delis, walks and activities nearby.
The Barn at Reedsford, Wooler, Northumberland
This enchanting conversion a perfect gateway for walking and cycling in the pure, natural beauty of the Northumberland National Park or simply for pressing the pause button and taking time to relax - whether with the dawn chorus or whilst enjoying an evening aperitif. Perfect for two along with babes-in-arms or young children making use of a travel cot.
Sleeping 4 guests
Stables, Melrose, Scottish Borders NOW BOOKED
A two-bedroom barn conversion which is stylishly presented and set high on the hillside above the picturesque villages of Gattonside and Melrose, named this year by the Sunday Times as the best place to live in Scotland. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the surrounding countryside and the local amenities just a short walk or cycle away. The on-trend yellow pendant lights are a favourite of ours!
Windyrig, Cockburnspath, Scottish Borders
From tiny hidden harbours to secluded sandy coves, Windyrig in the pretty village of Cockburnspath sits in a gem of a spot for exploring the Berwickshire and East Lothian coastline. Outdoors, guests can enjoy the pretty cottage garden with views towards the church spire, and a hidden garden adds complete privacy for sunshine days and summer barbecues.
Sleeping 6-8 guests
Oat Grass Lodge, Bamburgh, Northumberland (sleeps 6)
This exceptionally stylish lodge has a fresh contemporary feel, punctuated by imaginative detailing which celebrates life’s nature and wildlife. The three double bedrooms have a very on-trend vibe, including a whimsical Flamingo design and a calming Koi in azure blue. It will be an instant draw for those looking for a lovely escape in the very heart of this pristine stretch of Northumbrian coastline.
Mallow Lodge, Bamburgh, Northumberland (sleeps 4+4)
Evocative of the natural beauty of Scandinavian design, this fantastic lodge forms part of a unique eco-friendly development within an oh-so-striking setting - built on the site of a former whinstone quarry, mid-way between the stunning sands of Budle Bay and Bamburgh, one of the most popular beach destinations in England. One bedroom sports full size double bunk beds which are ideal for children but equally suitable for adults.
