Northumbria’s wealth of natural beauty, rugged coastline and vast landscapes of unspoilt countryside is blessed with an abundance of historic sites, including the mysterious Holy Island.
Day 1 After an early departure we travel via the Dartford Crossing to Northumbria, making suitable refreshment stops along the way.
Day 2 A full day out at Beamish. Britain’s favourite open air museum, set in over 300 acres of beautiful countryside, vividly recreates life in the North of England in the early 1800s and 1900s.
Day 3 Today we visit Alnwick Castle and Gardens, home of the Duke of Northumberland and the second largest inhabited castle in England. Discover opulent State Rooms filled with a stunning array of art and furniture, visit the museums, or stroll through the beautiful gardens and ‘Capability’ Brown landscape. The afternoon is free in Alnwick.
Day 4 We head north up to Bamburgh Castle, seat of the Kings of Northumbria, situated on a rocky outcrop with unsurpassed views of Lindisfarne. In the afternoon we visit Holy Island, crossing the causeway by coach (depending on tides). We have included entrance to the visitor centre for an introduction to life on the island.
Day 5 This morning we travel to the vibrant market town of Hexham with free time to explore. We then follow the course of Hadrian’s Wall and include a visit to the Roman Army Museum and Vindolanda, where you can see the excavated remains of the Roman fort and town.
Day 6 Departing after breakfast, we travel south by way of Stamford. We reach the coast in the evening.
Our modern four-star hotel is on the outskirts of the city and offers leisure facilities including swimming pool, sauna, gym and spa. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, safe, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift.
