Derwent Delights & Northern Sights

Day 1

We depart the local area with a stop on route for lunch, arriving at the 4* Derwent Manor Hotel with time to settle in before dinner.

Day 2

This morning, we cross the realm back in time and enter one of the best-preserved medieval structures in the UK. Meet your costumed guide, and (exclusively) enter through Bolton Castle's traditional portcullis gate. Handle the collection with the experts and even try your hand at Archery (weather permitting). With a colourful history, including once holding Mary Queen of Scots prisoner, the castle has featured in acclaimed films "Ivanhoe" and "Elizabeth." Step across the centuries in the castle's gardens, which have been carefully restored to their 15th-century design, complete with a vineyard and a maze, offering a glimpse into medieval horticulture.
We return to the hotel via the stunning North Pennines.

Day 3

Today we enter a world-famous and award-winning open-air museum, affectionately known as the living museum of the north. Get up-close to a recreated Northeast history from 1820 all the way to the 1950s. Meet knowledgeable volunteers and staff who are decked out in exceptional, historical costume. Travel by tram or old-fashioned bus from the Edwardian Town and Pit Village to the Home Farm and Pockerley Old Hall. You'll find many a unique item in the open stores - donated by the public to best reflect their stories and experiences. Why not have a quick tipple at the Sun Inn Pub or try some traditional sweets at the Jubilee Sweet Shop?

Day 4

Today we enjoy a Newcastle Panorama and coastal guided coach tour. Do you know about Tynemouth? It's the UK's 4th best coastal town praised for its perfect combination of "sand, surf and super-fresh seafood". Its mile-long expanse of shoreline is blessed with perfect golden sands and a deep inky-blue sea home to both seals and dolphins. We head to the iconic Angel of the North, famed for having a wingspan larger than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Admire the Baltic Art Gallery and it's stunning Tyneside views then marvel at the award-winning Millennium Bridge and Sage Gateshead. Discover the Geordie jewels with a panoramic tour of the city, featuring the commanding castle, the imposing cathedral, and the hallowed grounds of St. James' Park Stadium. Behold spectacular views over the North Sea, from Cullercoats and its 19th-century muses, up to Whitley Bay's golden sandy beach and striking view of St. Mary's Lighthouse.
Finally, uncover 'Gay Delavals' at Seaton Delaval Hall, devised by Sir John Vanbrugh, architect of Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard. Picture their extravagant 18th-century lifestyle set amidst the hall's dramatic English Baroque design and walled gardens.

Day 5

We depart the hotel, and with a stop on route, arrive home mid-afternoon.

D=Dinner, B=Breakfast