It happened.. over the weekend the I turned 25.
Now whilst I appreciate I’m still fairly young (and so everyone keeps reminding me) at the same time it suddenly felt like a bigger much number; so I decided to make a point of celebrating my birthday this year (as normally I’m too excited about Christmas by now to do much more than a have birthday meal or go on a night out with friends to mark the occasion).
The morning was spent relaxing at home so I could open presents and cards, eat birthday cake in bed and then speak to family and friends – as always there was some excellent singing of ‘Happy Birthday’, my favourite being from my hungover brother! Christo also got me birthday balloons which I loved – they are still up and looking good in the living room!
We decided to book an overnight stay at Walwick Hall, near Hexham in Northumberland, which is a beautiful 18th century Grade II listed building nestled in 100 acres. It certainly seems to tick all the boxes, no matter what your reason to visit. If you like to explore the great outdoors then Hadrian’s Wall is just on the doorstep; if you are a foodie, then the restaurant serves the most incredible meals with as much locally sourced produce as possible; alternatively, if you are looking to relax and indulge in a few treatments, then the spa is the perfect place with stunning countryside views of the Tyne Valley.
The rooms themselves are beautiful: there are bedrooms and luxury suites to choose from, which are all traditionally decorated to a really high standard as well as having the most incredibly comfy king size beds – I certainly slept very well. I think what makes this hotel stand out from others in the area though, is the staff who work there. Everyone was so kind and attentive and nothing was too much trouble – they even sorted my phone out for me when I dropped it in water. So if you are thinking about where to go to celebrate an occasion, or just after a night away to recharge your batteries, then I would definitely check this place out as I couldn’t recommend them enough!
I have included some snaps below from the big day – enjoy.
Hope Killick 