A warm welcome, scenic countryside and amazing heritage awaits us in Northumbria.
Thanks to its long and proud history, the unique value of the region’s
most beautiful and captivating historic sites have been recognised
around the world.
Our tour will encompass a selection of the area’s highlights: the historic city of Durham, the vibrant city of Newcastle and the Roman archeological site of Vindolanda.
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Our Hotel
The Redworth Hall Hotel in Newton Aycliffe dates back to 1693 and
retains many of its original features, all set within 26 acres of
landscaped grounds.
Each of the 143 modern bedrooms come equipped with a hairdryer, TV and tea/coffee making facilities.
The hotel features a restaurant and bar with several lounges in which
guests can relax, as well as an indoor swimming pool and leisure
facilities.
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What’s included
• Executive touring coach
• 4 nights half board accommodation
• Guided tour at Hepworth Wakefield
• Visit to the BALTIC Centre of Contemporary Art
• Admission to the Life Science Centre
• Guided tour of Durham Cathedral
• Guided tour of Durham Castle
• Durham River Cruise
• Gratuities for driver & guide
Cost:
The
cost of the visit for two people sharing a double/twin room is £665.00 per person *
* Based
on two sharing in a twin/double room with a minimum of 35 members
travelling. Should fewer members travel the price will increase.
Extras
• Single room supplement - £120 per person (double/twin room for sole occupancy)
• Travel insurance - £25 per person
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OUR ITINERARY
Day 1 ‒ We depart from
our local area for our journey northwards to our first destination, the
Hepworth Wakefield. Housed in a unique building designed by David
Chipperfield Architects, The Hepworth is home to a collection of over 5,000 pieces
of modern British art, including works by Henry Moore and Barbara
Hepworth. There will be a guided tour here and time to explore and
obtain lunch (not included). After our visit we continue on the journey
to our hotel for check in and dinner this evening.
Day 2 ‒ Today we will
explore the thriving, cosmopolitan city of Newcastle. Accompanied by a
local guide we will visit both the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art
and the Life Science Centre. BALTIC, situated on the Gateshead bank of
the River Tyne, is the largest institution in the UK dedicated to
contemporary art, and strives to present powerful, experimental and
inspirational works.
Newcastle’s Life Science Centre is part of a unique science village in
the heart of the city, and our visit here will be an interactive and
immersive experience. For anyone wishing to do so, there will also be an opportunity to explore the Victoria Tunnel, a
fully preserved coal waggonway from the 19th century which was also
used as an air raid shelter during WW2. Alternatively, there will be
some time at leisure in the city before returning to our hotel.
Day 3 ‒ This morning we
head to Durham where we will be met by our local guide. Here we will
visit the beautiful Durham Cathedral for a guided tour followed by a
guided tour at Durham Castle. This iconic World Heritage Site is set on
a rocky promontory above the city, presenting an imposing profile, and
was one of the first sites to be designated this status.
The stunning 11th century cathedral displays Romanesque architecture,
whilst the castle is a Norman fortification currently utilised by
Durham University. Later we take
a one hour river cruise, to relax and enjoy the monumental views of the
city from a different perspective. Any free time today will be at
leisure to explore Durham at our own pace.
Day 4 ‒ Our destination today is Vindolanda, one of Europe’s most important Roman archeological sites.
Soldiers from all over the Roman Empire, including Belgium, Germany and France, were garrisoned here. The
visible stone fort dates back to the third century and the
impressive remains include the fort walls, the headquarters building,
the Commanding Officer’s house, granaries and barracks. We will also
visit the museum, where there is a magnificent display of the many
stunning objects found during the excavations. These include remarkable
and unique collections of wooden artefacts, leather shoes, military
equipment, tools, jewellery, pottery, carved stone and religious
artefacts.
Day 5
‒ After we check
out of our hotel, we begin our homeward journey. En route, a visit will
be made to the Bowes Museum. Home to internationally significant
collections of fine and decorative arts, the Museum was purpose built
in the 19th
century by wealthy businessman John Bowes and his wife Josephine, a
French actress. The diverse collections are constantly being added to
and currently span three floors of this magnificent French-style
chateau.
Whether it is paintings by Van Dyck, Canaletto or Goya, delicate
porcelain produced at Sevres, or fashion from the 16-20th centuries, it
can all be found at The Bowes Museum, which has received ‘Designated’
status from the Government in recognition of the quality of its
outstanding collections.
Lunch can be taken here (not included) before we continue he homeward
journey, with a stop en route for light refreshments (included).
The exact order of excursions is subject to change.
Please send your completed booking form and deposit payment of £50 per person to:
Len Metcalfe, 21 Bryn Rhosyn, Radyr, Cardiff, CF15 8RN Tel: 02920 843 256
Email: leonard_441@yahoo.co.uk
PLEASE MAKE CHEQUES PAYABLE TO: SUCCESS TOURS
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