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Allendale Tar Bar'l
Allendale
A fiery New Year's Eve tradition in the North Pennines. Around 45 guisers in fancy dress carry flaming whisky barrels of tar on their heads through Allendale Town behind a band, then throw them onto a huge bonfire in the town centre at midnight to welcome the new year. Crowds gather from about 11pm and the barrels are lit at about 11.30pm.
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Where to stay
- AllendaleA few inns and B&Bs, book well ahead
- HexhamMarket town with the most choice, about 20 minutes away
- Haydon BridgeVillage about 15 minutes away
- CorbridgePretty village about 25 minutes away
Getting there
- Hexham station is about 10 miles away
- There are few or no buses late on New Year's Eve, so plan how you'll get back
- Country roads can be icy; leave time and park considerately in the village
Travel details can change, especially on event days — check with the venue or operator before you travel.
Questions people ask
Where is the best place to stay near Allendale Tar Bar'l?
Allendale: A few inns and B&Bs, book well ahead. Hexham: Market town with the most choice, about 20 minutes away. Haydon Bridge: Village about 15 minutes away. Corbridge: Pretty village about 25 minutes away.
How do I get to Allendale Tar Bar'l?
Hexham station is about 10 miles away. There are few or no buses late on New Year's Eve, so plan how you'll get back. Country roads can be icy; leave time and park considerately in the village.
Any tips for visiting Allendale Tar Bar'l?
Watching is free and no ticket is needed. Dress for a very cold night, arrive by 11pm for a good spot, and stay back from the burning barrels and the bonfire.
Which airport is closest to Allendale Tar Bar'l?
The nearest airport on this site is Newcastle International Airport, about 24 miles away in a straight line. See hotels near the airport.