Hidden Gems of The North

Monday

We travel to the northeast, arriving late afternoon at the Best Western Derwent Manor for our 4-night stay.

Tuesday

Today’s excursion takes us south through the Pennines to Stanhope. Here we take a short break before heading west through Weardale to Alston. Here we have time for lunch and we enjoy a ride on the South Tynedale Railway. We continue to Hexham, with its historic Abbey before heading back to the hotel.

Wednesday

Morpeth is our first destination today where it is Market Day! We have time to explore the town, browse the market stalls and obtain lunch before we are on our way across the picturesque Northumbrian countryside to Bellingham and Kielder Water. Here we can explore the visitor centre, followed by the Kielder Birds of Prey Centre which boasts one of the largest and most fascinating collections of Birds of Prey in the North of England.

Thursday

We visit the historic City of Durham, acclaimed as a World Heritage Site and dominated by the magnificent Norman Cathedral and Castle. We have time to explore before our afternoon visit to Barnard Castle and the Bowes Museum. This is one of County Durham’s biggest surprises. Housed in a majestic French-style chateau, the Museum opened in 1892 and will amaze you with its superb collection, including the famous Silver Swan.

Friday

After breakfast, sadly we return homeward bound.