Overview

The perfect place to enjoy a break, with its rich heritage, Durham was founded over the final resting place of St Cuthbert and its Norman cathedral became a centre of pilgrimage in medieval England. Built on the banks of the River Wear the city grew to be the seat of the ‘Prince Bishops’ who ruled on behalf of the King. Our 5 day tour allows us to view many of the wonderful places that County Durham has to offer. This break really does offer an insight into historic County Durham.

Your Accommodation:

The 4 star Redworth Hall Hotel combines traditional elegance with contemporary style, a beautiful early Georgian establishment set in 25 acres of peaceful woodland. Each of the en suite bedrooms is served by a lift and public facilities include a leisure centre with an indoor swimming pool.

Your Itinerary:

From your front door to the waiting Club Class coach for the drive to the north east, making a stop at the floral town of Harrogate for lunch. This afternoon we continue on to arrive at our hotel, Redworth Hall, where tea, coffee & biscuits await.

After a leisurely full English breakfast, we travel to nearby Beamish, a world famous open air museum, telling the story of life in north east England during the 1820’s, 1900’s and 1940’s. Take a ride on the Beamish tramway, watch delicious bread, cakes and biscuits being made using traditional Edwardian recipes at Herron’s Bakery and try the fish and chips, cooked in coal-fired ranges using beef dripping. After a wonderful day we return to our hotel for dinner this evening.

This morning we travel to the ancient and historic city of Durham, acclaimed as a World Heritage Site and dominated by the magnificent Norman Cathedral and Castle, perching high above the River Wear. There will be time at leisure to explore the city with its labyrinth of little streets and alleyways, or you may decide to take a relaxing stroll along the river. Later this afternoon we leave Durham and return to our hotel.

Today we visit the Bowes Museum, the jewel in the heart of the historic market town of Barnard Castle. The museum was purpose- built in the 19th century by a wealthy businessman and his actress wife. Their romantic story is revealed as we wander around this graceful and elegant Grade I Listed building. Later, we head over the scenic North Pennines with magnificent views over many valleys and peaks. We spend time in the small market town of Stanhope, home to the Durham Dales Centre and the Lime Tree Gallery.

After our final breakfast we bid farewell to our hosts at Redworth Hall and head for home. We make suitable stops on our journey to return to our home area, arriving late afternoon.

* Insurance Premiums are renewed from 1st January 2024.