December swoops in with frost-tipped mornings, candlelight carols and a flurry of Christmas markets across the North East. For visitors staying at Rest at the Nest, here’s your festive flight path – from cosy village fairs to glittering light trails.

Christmas Markets and Light Trails

• Bishop Auckland Christmas Town Market – 4–7 December
  Festive artisan stalls, gifts and street food in County Durham.
• Durham Christmas Festival – 5–7 December
  One of the biggest Christmas markets in the region, with over 200 traders.
• West Auckland Christmas Market – 7 December
  A small, community market perfect for families.
• Newcastle Christmas Market – 15 Nov–23 Dec
  Bustling festive stalls and global street food around Grey’s Monument.
• Northern Lights Newcastle – Leazes Park – 27 Nov–31 Dec
  A sparkling winter light trail in the heart of the city.
• AGLOW at The Auckland Project – 21 Nov–31 Dec
  Magical illuminated trail around Auckland Castle.
• Christmas in Ouseburn Valley – Throughout November & December
  Independent shops and pop-ups for unique gifts.

Carols and Festive Concerts

• Wynyard Hall Christmas Carols in the Chapel – 7–24 December
  Candlelit carols in a stunning private chapel.
• The Christmas Orchestra – Durham Cathedral – late November into December
  Festive symphonies in a historic setting.

Festive Shopping

• Re:Bourn Pop-Up Shop – Ouseburn Valley – 12–17 December
  Independent makers and local gifts.
• Late Night Shopping – Ouseburn Valley – 19 December
  Browse under twinkling lights for last-minute finds.

Creative Workshops

• Christmas Stocking Workshop – Baltic Shop, Newcastle – 13 December
  Sew your own personalised stocking.
• Sip & Paint a Christmas Glass – Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle – 18 December
  Creativity with a seasonal sip.
• Luxury Wreath-Making Workshops – Sedgefield – 22 November to 14 December
  Craft a natural festive wreath.

From candlelit carols to glowing light trails, the North East sparkles with festive spirit this December. Whether you wander Durham’s cobbled streets, shop for handmade gifts in Ouseburn or explore magical illuminated trails, Rest at the Nest is the perfect perch for a Christmas escape.