The Blanchland Winter Feast Walk

📅 Date: Saturday, 20th December
⏰ Start Time: 9:00 AM
📍 Meeting Point: Shared privately in the group chat after sign up
🎟️ Price: £30 per person (inc. a £10 deposit which will be taken off your own final bill at The Lord Crewe Arms), with the remainder supporting our charity for 2026, this will be chosen by you in January.

Event Overview
Join us for a festive winter wander through one of England’s most atmospheric gems. Blanchland is a tiny medieval village built from the stones of a dissolved abbey, tucked deep in the countryside, 45 minutes outside of Newcastle. It feels almost unchanged by time with quiet lanes, ancient walls, and stories woven into every stone. This 4.3 mile easy circular route takes us off grid across fields and upland tracks, looping through peaceful countryside with wide views across the English hills. Expect wintry air, crunchy grass, and rolling scenery.

Before we return to the village we will enjoy the gentle spectacle of a beautiful waterfall nestled in hidden woodland. It is the perfect place for a group moment, photo and a breather before the trail gently leads us back toward Branchland’s historic centre. Our walk finishes with lunch at the Lord Crewe Arms, one of the most characterful inns in the country with flagged floors, crackling fires, and centuries of mysterious ghost tales.

Please note: The meal is paid for individually at the venue but £10 per person will be taken off each final bill as we take that portion as your deposit with your booking to secure the booking at the Lord Crewe Arms.

A Bit of Local History
Blanchland has been described as a place where time folds. Built on the remains of a twelfth century abbey, legend says its stones still hold whispers of ghosts, monks and their rituals. There are tales of ghostly processions, darker histories of monastic life, and stories of the Dissolution when the abbey was torn apart and rebuilt as homes. Walking through it feels like stepping through a folktale or a Harry Potter film. Many visitors come for its beauty, though locals will tell you it is the whispers and shadows that make it unforgettable. The Lord Crewe Arms is one of the most atmospheric and iconic pubs in the UK.

Why This Event Matters
Our walks are about connection, conversation, and creating a space to slow down before the festive season rush begins. This Christmas event offers nature, story, warmth, and community. A winter walk, a waterfall pause, and a shared feast in a centuries old inn feels like the perfect close to what’s been a simply amazing year of walks.

Partners and Perks
Deep North Donuts – Coffee and a handmade doughnut provided at the finish line for each person.
Grisport Boot Giveaway – One pair of brand new boots will be given away to a lucky attendee thanks to our partners Grisport!
Sunday lunch for 2 Voucher at the Lord Crewe Arms will be given away to a lucky attendee
Spin The Wheel Prize Giveaway – A chance to win gear, goodies, or silly surprises in our post-hike spin the wheel raffle to a lucky attendee.

Event Details

• Distance: Approx. 4.3 miles
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Estimated Duration: 4 to 5 hours including lunch
• Terrain: Fields, tracks, village roads

What to Bring

• Warm breathable layers
• Waterproof jacket
• Hat, gloves, sturdy walking boots

Food and Drink

• At least 1 litre of water
• Snacks for the walk

Other Essentials

• Fully charged phone or camera
• Personal first aid basics

Lunch Information
Lunch is paid for by attendees at the venue. The £30 ticket includes a £10 deposit which will be taken off your own final bill.

Itinerary

🕘 9:00 AM Check in, meet at Blanchland (exact location shared privately post sign up)
🥾 9:15 AM Begin the circular walk through fields and viewpoints
💧 12:00 Pause at the waterfall for photos and a breather
🍽️ 12:15 Return to Blanchland for festive lunch at the Lord Crewe Arms

Community Connection
We will open a private Instagram chat before the event so everyone can say hello and build some festive buzz. This is a warm inclusive event and new faces are always welcome.

Important Information
This is a relaxed community walk, not a guided tour. Please dress for winter conditions and be confident walking. Tickets are non refundable due to limited spaces and preparation time. Please only book if you are certain you can attend.