A Northumberland hotel is set to bring an ice rink and a Santa's Grotto to its grounds in the run-up to Christmas.

Matfen Hall, which reopened in April after the second phase of a multi-million-pound refurbishment, has added an ice rink to its Jardin Hollandais during the Christmas Period. The hall will also host a festive grotto where children can visit Santa and enjoy a hot chocolate as he hands out presents.

Earlier this month, Matfen won the best recently renovated hotel in the 2024 Condé Nasat Johansens Awards for Excellence, and the Walwick Group, which owns the hotel, is hoping to capitalise on that success by bringing more people in during the Christmas period - even if not to stay overnight. The ice rink will be sponsored by Laurent-Perrier champagne, with adults ice-skating sessions accompanied by a glass of fizz.

James O'Donnell, commercial director at Matfen Hall, said: "We are excited to bring luxury and festivity to Northumberland. Our ice skating in Le Jardin Hollandais and Santa’s Grotto will be a great way for family and friends to socialise and experience Christmas at Matfen Hall.

"We are extremely proud to host a stunning ice skating experience as well as welcoming Santa Claus to hand out presents. We look forward to seeing you there."

Ice skating experiences cost £30 for 30 minutes per adult and include a glass of Laurent-Perrier champagne. A child's ice skating experience is £15 for 30 minutes per child, including a soft drink or hot chocolate.

It will be open from 4-8pm on weekdays and 11am - 7pm on weekends from December 4 until January 7. Santa's Grotto will be open from 12 - 4pm on December 9, 10, 16, 17 and 23.

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