Yorkshire 'Grit & Grandeur' Coniston Hotel

Monday

We travel north, making a comfort stop en route to the industrially historical town of Halifax. Standing proud in its centre, the Piece Hall is a Grade l listed building dating from 1779 that was built as a cloth hall for the trading 'pieces' of cloth. Upon arrival we will have a tour by a knowledgeable heritage guide who will lead us on a journey of discovery; now the only surviving building of it kind anywhere in the UK. There are many fascinating stories to be told, ranging from the Georgian period right through to the current day. From here, we continue to our hotel and out 4-night stay.

Tuesday

We join our coach for the scenic drive to Carlisle where we begin the highlight of our tour today- a train ride on the Settle & Carlisle Railway. Travelling through the glorious wild fells of Westmorland and the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, we journey through some of the country's most spectacular scenary to the pretty market town of Settle, where we rejoin our coach for the short journey back to the hotel.

Wednesday

Our day begins with more beautiful scenary as our memorable route takes us to Grassington then through Wharfdale via Kettlewell to Aysgarth. We continue through delightful Wensleydale to the market town of Hawes, where we visit the Wensleydale Creamery.

Thursday

Today's highlight is a scenic canal cruise on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, with refreshments included. The canal is steeped in over 200 years of history, from its heyday of carrying coal, wool, and stone from the dales to Leeds and Liverpool through to modern day pleasure cruisers enjoying the tranquil, slow pace of life. In the afternoon enjoy some free time in Skipton before returning to our hotel.

Friday

It's time to return home today but not before visiting Haworth, home to the Bronte sisters, with time to explore the cobbled main street, or perhaps visit the Bronte Parsonage.