Experiences

photography montage

Photography

Whether you wish to capture your holiday moments with a family photographic shoot or snap away at some or the North East’s remarkable landscapes or coastline with the help of a professional, we can recommend the following photographers: 

Alison Groves Photography
Alison is one of the North East’s top contemporary portrait photographers, well known for her creative location shoots. Whether relaxing in your holiday cottage or having fun on the beach, Alison can offer a unique and personal way to hold on to those treasured holiday memories forever. 

Sean Elliot Photography
Portraits, family shoots, training and workshops. His studio is located in the well-known and respected Biscuit Factory in Newcastle.

Peter Atkinson Photography 
Peter has taken almost all of the interior images and local images seen on our site and in our brochure. Many of the images here on our site are available to purchase.

Aerial view of a plane in the sky

See Northumberland from the air

‘Learning to fly is the ultimate freedom’, according to Purple Aviation, a flight experience provider in Eshott, Northumberland. Flight experiences range from 30 minutes to three hours and all include the opportunity to take control of the aircraft with the instructor safely at hand. It’s also a chance to see Northumberland’s fantastic coastline and magnificent castles from above.

Slice of chocolate torte

Cooking Classes

Learn to cook like a gourmet chef and then dine on the fruits of your labour

From bread and pasta-making to three course meals, with Mary Wilkins Cookery School you can enjoy a cook-off with friends or family in the comfort of your Retreat before sitting down to dine on your achievements. She also runs private classes for individuals who want to take their cooking to the next level.

Cocktail being poured from a shaker

Cocktail classes

Learn how to make classic and signature cocktails from The Swordmaker who will bring his pop-up cocktail bar to your Retreat. Coastal Retreats receive 10% off bookings.