There is a strong tradition of folk music in this part of Northumberland and there are regular folk music evenings held in the village hall in Netherton, ten minutes walk away. The local newspaper, The Northumberland Gazette, has listings.
Annual Festivals
The main festivals and farmers’ markets local to Burnfoot Holiday Cottages are listed below. Please check exact dates at the National Park Centre in Rothbury.
Rothbury Food & Craft Festival
First bank holiday Monday in May.
Clennell Folk Festival
A 3 day feast of folk music at Clennell Hall (between Netherton & Alwinton). Typically the second weekend in May.
Rothbury and Coquetdale Walking Festival
A week of walks in the Simonside Hills led by local shepherds and National Park guides in mid June.
Alnmouth Arts Festival
A two day event featuring local artists in over 20 venues throughout the village. Typically the second weekend in June.
Rothbury Traditional Music Festival
Dances, ceilidhs, competitions, pub sessions, concert and workshops. Outdoor display of music, song and dance. Good fun! Typically the second week in July.
Alnwick International Music Festival
A week long celebration of traditional music and dance from all over the world, held in the medieval marketplace in Alnwick. Typically the first week in August.
Simonside Country Fair
Traditional country fair with events such as Cumberland Wrestling, International Egg Throwing Competition, Birds Of Prey In Flight, Terrier Racing, Childrens Sports, Childrens Fancy Dress, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Local Crafts & Produce. Typically the second Sunday in August.
Glanton Show
Horticultural and agricultural show, typically the second Sunday in August.
Whittingham Show
Traditional village show. Typically the second Saturday in August.
Cheviots Challenge
The Cheviots Challenge is the main fundraising event for the Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue Team. It is exactly what it says in the tin – the routes are physically challenging, but are also designed to take in dramatic views, waterfalls and historic sites. We would strongly recommend entering – raising funds for a very worthy cause and stretching yourself (safe in the knowledge that at the end of the walk your luxurious holiday cottage awaits!). Typically the last Saturday in August, the closing date for entries is two weeks before the start so this is one event to consider for your next visit!
Harbottle Village Show
Local agricultural show featuring stalls, craft displays, competitions etc. Typically the first Saturday in September.
The Castles Challenge Triathlon
Lying in the shadow of the mighty Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh Cricket Club is the headquarters for the Castles Challenge Triathlon Series and serves as the transition area for the races and provides an amazing backdrop for the finish line. Theres a distance to suit all fitness levels! Typically the first Saturday in September.
Alnwick Food Festival
A celebration of local food and drink with children’s activities and a beer festival at the same time! Typically the third weekend of September.
Alnwick Food Festival
A celebration of local food and drink with children’s activities and a beer festival at the same time! Typically the third weekend of September.
Thropton Village Show
Local agricultural show, featuring stalls, craft displays, and some fairground rides. Typically the third Sunday in September.
Kielder Marathon
Reputedly Britains most beautiful marathon, with a number of shorter fun runs and bike rides over the same weekend. Typically the first weekend in October.
Alwinton Border Shepherds Show
The largest and last show of the season, featuring many stalls, competitions, fairground rides, crafts etc. Typically the second Sunday in October.
Alnwick Northumbrian Gathering
Concerts, dances, competitions for those with an interest in traditional and Northumbrian music. Typically the first weekend in November.