The South Causey Inn Christmas markets are great, I’ve been twice now and not only are they free to visit, and are filled with unique local stalls, they run every Tuesday up until Christmas. Being based in Newcastle rather than Durham, I really enjoyed seeing some local traders that I don’t always see, and there are some really good ones. I’ve previously bought candles, miniature spa gift sets, and of course plenty of festive treats. Here’s what to expect from the South Causey Christmas market.

From the coast it takes about half an hour to get there, with a lot of free parking on site. We got there half way through the session (details on timings later) and there were plenty spaces, but I think it must have been busy as cars were parked out on the road and on the grass verges. 

From arrival the place just feels so festive, with decorations leading right up the walk way to the entrance. The market takes over three rooms that make up the Durham Suite, and it’s filled with traders and their stalls.

There isn’t a one way system so it can get a bit hectic, and prams and dogs are both welcome. We took our time and made our way round each of the stalls, all local traders selling everything you can think of. Homeware, stationary and cards, unique Christmas decorations, fudge and chocolates, candles. There was a big dog stall too filled with treats and toys. It was a really good market compared to some, as you can often get a lot of rubbish but these were largely stuff you would buy. 

Hot Wax Newcastle were there with a lovely range, we bought three – Cinnamon which is the typical Christmas smell, Winter Spice and Apres ski. I’ve had one in the past and they are lovely quality the house smelled gorgeous last night. 

We also got some skincare from Temple Spa and the lady who runs that is lovely. She was chatting away and letting us try the tester products. 

Other stalls I liked were a local beer/wine one, Shabby Attic and the Fudge Barn both from Durham. It was a nice change to find north east brands like this as I’m often only at markers or places with North Tyneside or Northumberland traders. 

The bar is open in the main room and there is some seating available in there too for a drink or a snack. We had a wander through to the bar and restaurant which were both very cosy with the fire on. The resident dogs were roaming about sleepily too.

Outside they have some dining pods which are also available for a more private dining experience. South Causey have a big festive offering for different dining options including festive afternoon tea, Christmas dining menus, dog walks with afternoon tea included and lots more.

You can find their full Christmas itinerary and event list here. 

We had a wander around outside along to the Hotspot fire engine bar, which sadly wasn’t open at that time but that area looked great. It’s outside but there’s plenty of covered seating, booths and heaters available. My sisters been and said it’s good for cocktails. I bet it’s really festive with all the lights lit too. 

A stay in one of the hot tub rooms has been so high on my list for a while, and this visit just makes me want to go even more especially as it’s dog friendly and we could take Arthur. Location wise it’s obviously not too far, the postcode for your sat nav is DH9 0LS. Being so close to Beamish you could tie in a visit there for a full day of festivities.

The South Causey Inn Christmas market is on weekly, every Tuesday until Christmas and it has two sessions, 10:30am-2pm or 4pm – 8pm. They also have some hot spot Saturdays, including 16th December from 10-3pm. It’s free entry no tickets required and all the traders will be the same for both timings. I really liked this Christmas market it was a bit different and in a gorgeous venue, so if you can then head along. I wish we had had more time as I’d have booked for food too. 

Other posts you might like:

Over 70 things to do in December

Where to Pick Your Own Christmas Tree in the North East

Festive Afternoon Tea in the North East

Where to go for Festive Bottomless Brunch in Newcastle

5 Luxury Stays for the Festive Season