The stunning après ski bar with fake snow less than an hour from Newcastle that is pure Christmas

When it comes to plans for the festive period, a few drinks and some hearty food around a fire pit is an absolute necessity and there is a place that has just opened its doors in Northumberland, that offers that in abundance.

Tipi bars are now just as much a part of Christmas festivities as a trip to Fenwick's Window or a much on a Greggs Festive Bake; with them offering the opportunity to relax and unwind for a while, with your only concern what drink you're going to order next. And now luxury Northumberland hotel The Tempus has opened its stunning Alpine Tipi to the public, having had many people flocking to its al fresco bar in the summer.

The Alpine Tipi had its grand opening on Friday night and, as well as an array of Christmas cocktails for guests to choose from, there are also an array of festive food offerings, including rustic pizzas, katsu fries and a must have for any Christmas table - a baked camembert. Take a wander inside the Tipi and, minus Santa Claus himself being there, you will think you're in Lapland, as the interior is laden with sumptuous furs, cosy blankets and wrapped presents.

READ MORE: South Shields pub has epic Christmas transformation ahead of 'magical' light switch on

READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing's Pete Wicks set to leave BBC show after complaints flood in

The vibe of the venue is pure Christmas, with a fire pit to gather round and twinkling lights aplenty and the best news is for anyone in the Newcastle area that fancies a visit, is that The Tempus, at Charlton Hall, is just a 50 minute drive from the city centre, with a straight drive up the A1 and then less than five minutes from the busy stretch of road once you've turned off.

The festive treats aren't restricted to the inside of the Tipi either, as there is also a roaring fire outside to toast marshmallows on and a machine filling the air with fake snow to make you feeling like you could well be an exra in Wham's Last Christmas video.

*The Alpine Tipi is open at The Tempus every Friday and Saturday from 4pm until 10pm throughout November and December.