Description
Stretching from the unspoiled wilds of the Northumberland National Park to the outstanding natural beauty of the Heritage Coast, Northumbria has everything for a perfect holiday. Lush rolling countryside, spectacular forests, glorious sandy beaches, quaint villages and historic market towns mingle with mighty castles and ancient monuments that bear testament to the bloody battles and warring clans of a bygone era.
Itinerary
DAY 1 - After joining your holiday coach, we make our way northwards with suitable stops for lunch and refreshments. We arrive at our hotel late afternoon, in good time to freshen up for our first evening meal together.
DAYS 2 - 4: At leisure with TWO INCLUDED excursions and one optional.
INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
Bamburgh & Holy Island:
We journey north along the coastal road exploring the unspoilt Northumbrian Coastline. Our first stop is the village of Bamburgh, where you can enjoy free time to wander at leisure or visit the Castle with its fine views of the Farne Islands (admission not included). Following this, if the tides permit we cross the narrow causeway to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne which is famous for both its medieval religious heritage and also its 16th Century castle (admission not included). We call in to the historic town of Alnwick on our return.
Northumberland National Park:
A day of wonderful scenery today as we head out into the dramatic Northumberland National Park. Our first stop is the small town of Otterburn where we visit Otterburn Mill which contains a museum outlining the history of weaving and wool milling in the area. We then continue to Kielder Water where we call at the Tower Knowe Visitor Centre where you can discover the area's rich history at the Explore Centre. Your driver may offer an optional cruise here. We continue to the Kielder Water Birds of Prey Centre, based at Leaplish Waterside Park, where the centre cares for a whole host of birds including owls, falcons and vultures as well as fallow deer and wallabies.
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
Join the coach for an interesting excursion today. We drive westward to the delightful Yorkshire towns of Corbridge and Hexham.
Corbridge is a jewel in the crown of Northumberland. It grew from the Roman town of Corstopitum, a supply town for the troops on Hadrian's Wall. From the beginning Corstopitum provided much of the building stones used in the construction of many of the village buildings, including the church, Vicar's Pele and nearby castles. We then continue on to discover the hidden treasures of Hexham in the heart of the beautiful Tyne Valley just a few miles south of Hadrian's Wall. Be captivated by its stunning backdrop, a medieval abbey set in pretty parks, by the River Tyne. Hexham is a charming market town characterised by its stone architecture, cobbled streets and historic buildings. Combine this with a blend of boutiques, high street favourites and regular outdoor markets offering you a unique experience. A warm welcome awaits you in our many quirky coffee shops and award-winning restaurants. Returning to our hotel mid afternoon.
Day 5 - After breakfast, return homewards, arriving back at your local joining points early to mid-evening.
Venue Information
Vermont Hotel, Newcastle
Combines 1930s grandeur with contemporary elegance and four-star luxury- direct access to the lively Quayside and close to the Theatre Royal, Millennium Bridge and Castle Keep. Large bedrooms include TV and tea / coffee making facilities.