Pennine Pleasures - Durham Dales & Vales

Monday

Departing Henley, we journey to the northeast and to our hotel base for 4 nights – the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel in Durham.

Tuesday

To nearby Raby Castle which dates to the 14th century and is one of England’s finest mediaeval castles. Enjoy a private guided tour to discover the scandalous history including the failed plotting of the ‘Rising of the North’ and wander through spectacularly maintained ornamental rooms adorned with works of art and treasures including the Barons’ Hall with fascinating heritage and dramatic interior. Explore the 18th-century Walled Gardens and the beautiful 200-acre Deer Park with ornamental lakes. We continue to the Teesdale Cheese Company where the husband-and-wife team guide us from the dairy to discover award-winning cheeses and of course taste some!

Wednesday

Embark on a coach tour of discovery through the spectacular Durham Dales and The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beautyand UNESCO Global Geopark. Our expert guide will enlighten you on the many
gems of the area including a woodland walk leading to ‘High Force’ – one of England’s most spectacular waterfalls dropping 70ft into the plunge pool below! There is also the chance of catching sight of deer, red squirrels and soaring birds of prey.

Thursday

‘All Aboard’ as we jump aboard the Weardale Railway. Originally part of the Stockton to Darlington line, the Railway is now independently owned and takes you across the picturesque Wear Valley for fantastic views of the River Wear. Making its way through the Northern Pennines, the line runs for 11 miles from Stanhope to Bishop Auckland. We continue to the Steam Machine Brewing Company in Newton Aycliffe, a bustling craft brewer visitor attraction in the heart of County Durham where we can discover a constantly changing selection of fresh craft beer and interact with the brewers in the heart of the brewery

Friday

After breakfast we leave our hotel and make our journey home with comfort stops en-route.