Day 1 - Harrogate
Our tour begins as you arrive at your hotel in Harrogate, at the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. One of England's most attractive towns, Harrogate retains many Georgian and Victorian features including its original spa buildings. After time to discover your new surroundings, and to perhaps visit the famous Betty's Tea Rooms, this evening we meet for dinner in the hotel. (D)
Day 2 - Historic York
This morning we travel by rail to York, a beautiful walled city steeped in centuries of history. We discover much of the city's long and fascinating story on a guided walking tour of its main attractions. These include the incomparable Minster, which is one of Europe's largest and most ornate gothic cathedrals, and the Shambles, a quaint street that has remained almost unchanged since the Middle Ages.
Following the tour, you have the chance to take in the sights of this marvelous city at your own pace. The network of medieval streets offers a unique charm and is one of York's major highlights, as is the National Railroad Museum (free admission). The largest of its kind in the world, the museum boasts many steam locomotives and a selection of Royal carriages. Another popular option is the Jorvik Viking Center, which faithfully recreates York when it was the capital of the Viking Kingdom. Otherwise, perhaps stroll along the city walls or take in the views from Clifford's Tower. (B, D)
Day 3 - The North Yorkshire Moors Railroad
Today, board the coach for today's excursion to Whitby, one of the east coast's most popular seaside resorts. On the way to this iconic Yorkshire location, disembark at Goathland, better known as 'Aidensfield' in TV's Heartbeat. Your journey continues through hidden valleys and open moorland as the coach makes its way to the charming fishing port of Whitby. Crowned by its brooding Abbey, the town is famous as the inspiration behind Bram Stoker's Dracula, which incorporated local folklore to heighten the authenticity of this spooky tale. Also known for its beautiful Whitby jet jewelry, there are dozens of shops selling authentic jet accessories.
The older part of the town, located on the East Bank, is a maze of narrow medieval streets with a rich history just waiting to be explored, while the newer town is found on the opposite bank. Enjoy your time and explore the charm of the quaint cobbled streets that lead down to its handsome harbor. If you're feeling adventurous, why not climb the 199 steps up to glorious Whitby Abbey? Here, you can enjoy unimpeded panoramic views of the coastal town. And last but not the least, Whitby is home to some of the UK's finest fish and chip restaurants, which you have free time to sample before you join the nostalgic North Yorkshire Moors Railroad for the return journey by steam* railroad.
*Steam-hauled where possible. (B, D)
Day 4 - Settle & Carlisle Line
Leaving Harrogate behind, today we travel on the famous Settle & Carlisle Line. The 72-mile route is regularly voted one of the world's top railroad journeys, and once we set off it is easy to see why. Cross over the wonderful Ribblehead Viaduct that cuts through the Yorkshire Dales and is overlooked by the mighty Whernside. The line also skirts the North Pennines, designated an Area of Natural Beauty for its breathtaking examples of the glory of nature. Once in Carlisle we transfer by rail to Hexham. On arrival, we continue by coach to our hotel in Alnwick. (B, D)
Day 5 - Alnwick Gardens
This morning we enjoy a guided tour around the beautifully landscaped Alnwick Gardens. The gardens are a vibrant place; magnificent architecture and lovingly tended plants and flowers are brought to life with a variety of water features. After dinner back at the hotel, we take a drive into Kielder Forest for star gazing. Overnight Alnwick. (B, D)
Day 6 - Bamburgh Castle & Lindisfarne
Today we cross the wild Northumberland countryside to Bamburgh, a scenic coastal town dominated by the magnificent Bamburgh Castle, before visiting the famous island of Lindisfarme*. We are treated to a tasting of local mead before we return to the hotel for a farewell dinner to celebrate the last night of our vacation.
*Please note that due to tidal variance, the time of the visit to Lindisfarne is subject to change. (B, D)
Day 7 - The Journey Home
After breakfast in the hotel, we transfer to Alnmouth station where we join the LNER rail service back to York (First Class), a fitting place to end our adventure. (B)
Destination & Sightseeing
ITINERARY
