Discover Alnwick Castle’s stunning gardens, a Farne Islands wildlife cruise, the serene Howick Hall Gardens, and Holy Island's historic treasures, as well as Kielder Water’s natural beauty, creating unforgettable memories in this enchanting region

Day 1: Travel to Northumberland, arrive at the hotel and check in for dinner

Day 2: Alnwick Castle and Garden
Today, we explore the majestic Alnwick Castle, a site steeped in history and famous as a filming location for Harry Potter. Stroll through its breathtaking gardens, including the enchanting Poison Garden and tranquil Rose Garden, each brimming with colour and intrigue. The castle interiors offer a glimpse into its rich heritage, with stunning architecture and fascinating stories that bring its history to life

Day 3: Farne Islands Wildlife Cruise & Grace Darling
Set sail on a wildlife cruise to the Farne Islands, a haven for bird and marine life. Experience the thrill of seeing puffins, terns, and razorbills in their natural habitat, and keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks or dolphins playing in the waves. Back on the mainland, enjoy time to explore the charming village of Seahouses before travelling the short distance along the coast to explore Bamburgh, famed for its connection with Victorian heroine Grace Darling

Day 4: Hadrian's Wall and Roman Northumbria
Step back in time as you explore Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. After a scenic drive following the route of the wall, with views across the landscape including Sycamore Gap, we continue to Vindolanda, an ancient Roman fort and settlement renowned for its ongoing archaeological discoveries and fascinating museum exhibits

Day 5: Kielder Water and Forest Park, and Hexham Abbey
Experience the natural wonder of Kielder Water and Forest Park, a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. We enjoy a scenic drive through this vast area of lakes, woodlands, and wetlands, home to red squirrels, ospreys, and other native species. In the afternoon, we continue to Hexham for a guided tour of Hexham Abbey, before some free time to explore the town

Day 6: Depart hotel after breakfast for your homeward journey

Northumberland is a treasure trove of castles and stately homes, from grand medieval fortresses to elegant Georgian halls, telling stories of kings, inventors, and remarkable eras of the past.

With carefully curated visits to iconic locations such as Alnwick Castle, Bamburgh Castle, and Lindisfarne, as well as hidden gems like Cragside and Belsay Hall, this itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through centuries of history, all set against the captivating backdrop of one of England’s most beautiful counties

Day 1: Travel to Northumberland, arrive at the hotel and check in for dinner

Day 2: Alnwick Castle and Gardens
Begin your holiday with a visit to the magnificent Alnwick Castle, one of Northumberland's most iconic landmarks. Discover its fascinating history as you explore the grand state rooms and marvel at the impressive medieval architecture, before wandering through the stunning Alnwick Garden, an oasis of beautifully designed landscapes, water features, and the intriguing Poison Garden—a truly memorable experience. Alnwick town is just a stone's throw away for additional time to explore quaint shops and visit the famous Barter Books, located in the old railway station

Day 3: Bamburgh Castle and Howick Hall Gardens
Journey to Bamburgh Castle, dramatically perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the stunning Northumberland coastline, and discover the rich history of this extraordinary fortress as you explore its fascinating collections and enjoy breathtaking views. Following your visit, experience the serene beauty of Howick Hall Gardens, known for its vibrant displays of plants and flowers, peaceful woodland walks, and connections to Earl Grey tea

Day 4: Cragside Estate
Today, venture into the heart of Northumberland to explore Cragside House and Gardens, a remarkable Victorian mansion surrounded by a sprawling woodland estate. This innovative home, filled with fascinating gadgets and inventions, offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of its creator, Lord Armstrong, as well as the opportunity to wander through the estate’s enchanting gardens, with their serene lakes, winding woodland paths, and captivating views. Following our visit, we enjoy a visit to the nearby market town of Rothbury, with welcoming cafes, galleries and independent shops

Day 5: Belsay Hall, Castle, and Gardens
Spend a delightful day exploring the grandeur of Belsay Hall, Castle, and Gardens. This remarkable estate offers a unique journey through time, featuring a striking 19th-century Grecian-style hall and a medieval castle surrounded by lush greenery. Wander through the enchanting Quarry Garden, a hidden gem filled with exotic plants and dramatic rock formations, and soak in the tranquillity of this picturesque setting. 

Day 6 - Depart the hotel after breakfast for the homeward journey

Explore the best of Northumberland: from ancient Roman forts along Hadrian’s Wall to the grandeur of Bamburgh Castle and the dramatic beauty of the Farne Islands. Discover the filming locations of the beloved TV series Vera, marvel at Victorian ingenuity at Cragside, and immerse yourself in charming market towns and coastal villages - whether you’re captivated by history, inspired by stunning scenery, or intrigued by local stories, this Northumberland adventure promises something special for everyone

Day 1: Travel to Northumberland, arrive at the hotel and check in for dinner

Day 2: Hadrian's Wall, Vindolanda, and Hexham
Begin your journey through history with a scenic drive following the route of Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the Roman Empire’s northern frontier. We visit Vindolanda, a fascinating archaeological site with a wealth of Roman artifacts and an interactive museum. before ending the day in the historic town of Hexham, where you can visit Hexham Abbey and enjoy time browsing the shops, cafes, and galleries.

Day 3: Vera’s Northumberland
Experience the world of Vera, the beloved TV detective series, with a tour of iconic filming locations; from Amble, a bustling coastal town featured in several episodes, to the serene Holy Island of Lindisfarne, a dramatic and atmospheric backdrop for the show. We continue to Alnmouth, a charming village with a picturesque harbour featured in the series, before heading to Newcastle Quayside, where the Tyne Bridge and Millennium Bridge have set the scene for some of Vera’s most memorable moments.

Day 4: Bamburgh Castle and Farne Island Cruise
Discover the majestic Bamburgh Castle, perched high on a rocky outcrop overlooking the coastline, and explore the castle's rich history and heritage. In the afternoon, we enjoy a cruise around the Farne Islands, where, in Spring and Summer, we can marvel at the abundant wildlife, including puffins and seals, as we sail around these rugged islands steeped in natural beauty and history.

Day 5: Cragside
Spend the day at Cragside, a breathtaking Victorian country house once home to inventor Lord Armstrong. Renowned as the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity, Cragside boasts innovative features and exquisite gardens, as well as lush woodlands, rock gardens, and lakes, for you to explore at leisure

Day 6: After breakfast, we depart the hotel for our homeward journey