AS the festive season gets into full swing we wanted to know where the best places to go Christmas shopping are.

We asked our readers for their recommendations and this is what they said.

Hexham

Patricia Barnes recommends Hexham for shopping, she said: "Hexham has some lovely shops and fantastic cafes, i would start of Hexham."

Hexham is a small market town, which host a selection of independent local businesses and big named brands just a few miles away from the historic Hadrian's wall.

Sanderson Arcade

The Sanderson Arcade is located on Bridge Street, Morpeth. Open seven days a week, this shopping centre is a perfect place to start collecting your Christmas gifts.

One reviewer said "The best shopping centre in Morpeth, it is mostly outside, next t the bus station so you can catch the bus there."

Sue Hart-Jackson is championing small businesses this festive season, she said: "Lot's of excellent independent shops in Northumberland, let's go for them!"

Haltwhistle

The town directly in the heart of Britain was recommended by Ruth Boyd, she said: "Haltwhistle is well worth a visit.

"We have local, independent shops, as well as a fantastic display of Christmas lights."

The town is home to quirky shops and restaurants as well as housing Northumberland's only open air swimming pool and located by a section f Hadrian's Wall which is almost intact.

Corbridge

This is a small Northumberland town and was recommended by Benita Dickinson and Cassie Schofield. The town is steeped with Roman heritage that can still be seen today.

Corbridge is a perfect pace to visit whether you are an avid shopper or history fanatic, the town is definitely a place to visit.

Heather and Bale

Located on the Willowtreet industrial estate in Alnwick, Heather and Bale are a family run company that specialises in Luxury hampers and gifts.

Based in the heart of Northumberland, the team works directly with independent artisan producers.

Bellingham

Bellingham is a small village set to the North West of Newcastle just by the River North Tyne, which was recommended by Martin Green.

The historic market town is home to a variety of independent shops so it is a perfect place to start your Christmas shop.