Highlights of Northumberland 9707

Highlights of Northumberland 9707

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5 Days From

$1535

Highlights of Northumberland 9707

5 Days Starting in London, United Kingdom and ending in Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom

Visiting: Newcastle, Northumberland, Alnwick, Hadrian's Wall

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BHNO

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Activities:

Walking

From: $1535

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the historic landscapes of Northumberland with the "Highlights of Northumberland 9707" tour. Begin your adventure with a scenic rail journey from London Kings Cross to Newcastle, where you'll settle into the comfort of the 4-star Maldron Hotel for four nights. Explore the architectural marvels of Belsay Hall, the majestic Bamburgh Castle, and the enchanting Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Delve into the grandeur of Alnwick Castle and its exquisite gardens, and uncover the ancient Roman heritage at Hadrian’s Wall and Chester’s Fort. Conclude your tour with a visit to the stately Wallington House, set amidst stunning grounds. Travel in style with comfortable coach transport and enjoy the expertise of a Brightwater Holidays tour manager throughout your journey. This tour promises a rich tapestry of history and breathtaking scenery, perfect for those seeking an immersive UK coach tour experience.

Highlights

  • Belsay Hall with its classical Greek revival architecture and dramatic gardens.

  • Explore the impressive Bamburgh Castle, a fortress with over 1400 years of history.

  • Visit the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, home to the 16th-century Lindisfarne Castle and Priory.

  • Discover Alnwick Castle, known as the Windsor of the North, with its exquisite art collection.

  • Experience the Roman heritage at Hadrian's Wall and Chester's Fort.

  • Stroll through the magnificent grounds of Wallington House, dating back to 1688.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Newcastle

Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart from London Kings Cross by train to Newcastle (please note connecting rail travel to Newcastle from other stations is available on request or there is a discount of £100pp for those making their own way to Newcastle).
On arrival at Newcastle Station, we join our coach and depart for our first visit, the house and gardens of Belsay Hall, a classical brown stone mansion, built in the 19th Century in Greek revival style to the design of its owner, Sir Charles Monck. Inspired by a honeymoon trip to Athens, the unfurnished Pillar Hall is at the centre of the house, with closely spaced Ionic columns and a beautifully light atrium. Enjoying spectacular views of the magnolia terrace, the family bedrooms retain their original fireplace grates and floral wallpaper from the 1800s.
The hall was built from rock carved from Belsay’s very own quarry, which was later transformed into an exciting and dramatic garden – creepers twist up sheer rockfaces while rare trees grow in the meadows in the ravines.
We continue by coach to our comfortable hotel in Newcastle.
 

Day 2

Location: Northumberland

Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Following breakfast, we travel north along the dramatic Northumberland coast to Bamburgh Castle, an impressive fortress that has stood guard here for over 1400 years. Sprawling over nine acres of land on its rocky plateau, Bamburgh is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country. The 150 feet high escarpment and natural harbour made Bamburgh the obvious choice for the sixth century Kings of Northumbria to build their royal capital, Din Guaydri. Throughout its colourful history Bamburgh has been home to a succession of kings from Henry IV to James I and it was the first castle in the world to fall to gunpowder in the War of the Roses. Visionary inventor, industrialist and philanthropist Lord William George Armstrong bought Bamburgh Castle in 1894 and set about transforming it into his vision of the archetypal castle. The castle houses his unique collection of artwork, ceramics and objets d’art that Armstrong loved and brought him joy.
A few miles along the coast lies the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, which we will visit in the afternoon, as the island is accessed by a causeway that is covered at high tide. Perched atop a rocky crag, the 16th century Lindisfarne Castle presents an exciting and alluring aspect. Originally a Tudor fort, it was converted into a private house in 1903 by the young Edwin Lutyens. The small rooms are full of intimate decoration and design, with windows looking down upon the charming walled garden planned by Gertrude Jekyll. After the castle, we will also visit Lindsfarne Priory. The famous Benedictine Priory built during the late 11th century was one of the most important centres of early Christianity in Anglo-Saxon England.
Please note that there is a three-quarter-mile walk from the coach park to the castle, although minibus transfers are available at a fare to be paid on board. There are no toilets in Lindisfarne Castle, nor a café, but full catering facilities are available in the village.
 

Day 3

Location: Alnwick

Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast we depart for a full day at Alnwick Castle, the historic home of the Duke of Northumberland, which has been described as the Windsor of the North and is the second largest inhabited castle in England. It has been in the possession of the Percy family since 1309 and the castle houses an exquisite collection of art treasures, including the finest examples of Italian paintings in the north of England. Lunch (not included) is available in the adjoining Alnwick Garden, accessed by a pleasant walk through the grounds. This unique garden project was inspired by the Duchess of Northumberland and has established itself as one of the most notable gardens in England.
 
 

Day 4

Location: Hadrian's Wall

Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today is spent discovering the Roman heritage of the area. We begin at Hadrian’s wall built as a fortification across northern Britain some 2,000 years ago before heading Chester’s Fort, the most complete Roman cavalry fort in Britain where you can wander through the well-preserved baths, steam rooms and officers’ quarters.
 
 
 

Day 5

Location: Newcastle

Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we check out of the hotel and travel into the Northumbrian countryside for the last time as we visit Wallington House, which dates back to 1688 and was home to many generations of the Blackett and Trevelyn families, all of whom have left their legacy behind. The house is set in magnificent grounds with lawns, lakes and woodlands, and a stroll here will be the perfect finale to our short break.
We then return to Newcastle for our afternoon train journey back to London Kings Cross (or other onward connections).
 

What's Included

  • Four nights’ dinner, bed and full breakfast at the 4-star Maldron Hotel in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

    Enjoy a comfortable stay with dinner, bed, and full breakfast included at the 4-star Maldron Hotel in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

  • Standard class rail travel from London Kings Cross to Newcastle

    Travel in style with standard class rail from London Kings Cross to Newcastle, with options for first class upgrades and regional connections.

  • Comfortable coach travel in Northumberland

    Explore Northumberland with comfortable coach travel included in the tour.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour package.

  • Services of a Brightwater Holidays tour manager

    The tour includes the services of a Brightwater Holidays tour manager to assist throughout the journey.

What's Not Included

  • Lunch at Alnwick Castle

    Lunch is not included during the visit to Alnwick Castle.

  • Minibus transfers at Lindisfarne Castle

    Minibus transfers from the coach park to Lindisfarne Castle are not included and must be paid on board.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with standard class rail from London Kings Cross to Newcastle, with options for first class upgrades and regional connections. Explore Northumberland with comfortable coach travel.

Accommodation

Enjoy a comfortable stay at the 4-star Maldron Hotel in Newcastle Upon Tyne, where you'll be treated to four nights of dinner, bed, and full breakfast.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour includes standard class rail travel from London Kings Cross to Newcastle, with options for first class upgrades and regional connections. Once in Northumberland, comfortable coach travel is provided for exploring the area.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?

    The tour includes a stay at the 4-star Maldron Hotel in Newcastle Upon Tyne, where guests will enjoy four nights of dinner, bed, and full breakfast.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes dinner, bed, and full breakfast for four nights at the Maldron Hotel in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

  • Is there a tour manager available during the trip?

    Yes, the services of a Brightwater Holidays tour manager are included in the tour.

  • What historical sites will be visited during the tour?

    The tour includes visits to Belsay Hall, Bamburgh Castle, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, Alnwick Castle, Hadrian's Wall, Chester's Fort, and Wallington House.

  • Is there any walking involved during the visits?

    Yes, there is a three-quarter-mile walk from the coach park to Lindisfarne Castle, although minibus transfers are available for a fare.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

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Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 11, 2025
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Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 18, 2025
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Prices last published on 31-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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