Northumbrian Coast, Durham and Lindisfarne

Northumbrian Coast, Durham and Lindisfarne

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tourhub | Riviera Travel | Northumbrian Coast, Durham and Lindisfarne | UKNU
tourhub | Riviera Travel | Northumbrian Coast, Durham and Lindisfarne | UKNU tourhub | Riviera Travel | Northumbrian Coast, Durham and Lindisfarne | UKNU

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tourhub | Riviera Travel | Northumbrian Coast, Durham and Lindisfarne | UKNU

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tourhub | Riviera Travel | Northumbrian Coast, Durham and Lindisfarne | UKNU
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Northumbrian Coast, Durham and Lindisfarne

5 Days Starting and ending in Northumberland, UK

Visiting: Northumberland, Alnwick Castle, The Alnwick Garden, Holy Island, Bamburgh, Durham, Alnwick, National Trust - Cragside

Tour operator:

Riviera Travel

Tour code:

UKNU

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

0 - 25

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

9-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:
English
Trip Styles:

UK tours by Coach

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Nestled in the Northumbrian countryside, stay in the stunning surroundings of a 19th-century country house, embracing the best of this equally beautiful and historic area each day. From iconic castles to intriguing remote islands and award-winning gardens to afternoon tea, see the likes of Alnwick, Durham and Bamburgh, with verdant countryside, breathtaking coastal views and ancient sites at every turn.

Highlights

  • Explore Alnwick Castle on a guided tour

  • Experience Alnwick Garden

  • Enjoy a scenic drive to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne & Bamburgh

  • Visit historic Bamburgh Castle

  • Discover Durham Cathedral on a guided tour

  • Visit Cragside, a National Trust property

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive In Northumberland

Location: Northumberland

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4* Doxford Hall Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Make your own way to charming Doxford in Northumberland, a remote and beautiful county famous for its breathtaking sandy beaches, historic castles and pleasant market towns. We will have time to enjoy the hotel’s facilities this afternoon, or perhaps just explore the stunning grounds before dinner is served. Originally built in 1818, Doxford Hall is truly characterful with its old stone fireplaces, classic leather armchairs and comfortable sitting rooms. (D)

Day 2 : Alnwick Castle & Alnwick Garden

Location: Alnwick Castle, The Alnwick Garden

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4* Doxford Hall Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After one of many inviting breakfasts at the hotel, we head to Alnwick this morning. A pretty market town dating back to about AD 600, Alnwick has retained its character, with its cobbled streets and stone Georgian buildings. But its crowning glory is Alnwick Castle, which some people refer to as the ‘Windsor of the North’ thanks to its grand and imposing appearance.

One of the highlights of Northumberland, widely believed to be one of the finest in the country, we head to the castle for a visit and guided tour. Home to the Percys, the Duke of Northumberland’s family since 1309, the castle’s origins date back to Norman times. From the medieval exterior to the extravagant Italianate state rooms, this imposing castle has a lot to offer, including an incredible display of paintings, with several by Canaletto. You might recognise some parts of the castle from the screen too – as it has appeared in the likes of Downton Abbey and Harry Potter. TV and film aside, it has also served as a military outpost, a teaching college and a refuge for evacuees. This morning we will get to explore it and find out more about its history, full of drama and intrigue, before enjoying some free time in Alnwick for lunch.

This afternoon is for budding horticulturists, as we head to the award-winning Alnwick Garden. Home to over 4000 plant varieties, water sculptures, the world’s largest Japanese cherry orchard, a Grand Cascade of water jets and even a “Poison Garden”, the modern and established garden was created by the Duchess of Northumberland just over 20 years ago. (B, D)

Day 3 : Holy Island Of Lindisfarne & Bamburgh

Location: Holy Island, Bamburgh

Accommodation Name: 4* Doxford Hall Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning. we enjoy the scenic route through the Northumberland countryside, with coastal views emerging from the green surroundings – we’re heading to the small island of Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island. Northumberland truly is one of the most tranquil and unspoilt parts of the country, and as we drive through the countryside, we can enjoy bucolic scenes typical of this impossibly green and refreshingly remote area.

Holy Island is reached by a tidal causeway and it is cut off from the mainland twice a day – this sense of peaceful isolation attracted Irish monks, starting from St Aidan, who settled here in AD 635 in order to the convert Northumbrian people to Christianity. Thanks to this mission, the island is considered the cradle of British Christianity and has become a place of pilgrimage from all over the world. We include a visit to the priory where we can find out more about the Viking raid in 793, when the Monks had to leave the island carrying St Cuthbert's coffin and treasures. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking coastal views just as the monks did, hundreds of years ago.

This afternoon, we head back to the mainland with free time to explore delightful Bamburgh, where we include entrance to Bamburgh Castle. This is Northumberland’s most impressively located castle, built by Henry II around an 11th-century Norman keep. The castle played a key role in the border wars of the 13th and 14th centuries, before being restored in the 19th century by inventor and industrialist Lord Armstrong – we’ll learn more about him on our visit to Cragside later in the tour. TV and film buffs might recognise this castle too, as it has starred in countless films and TV programmes, including Transformers and The Last Kingdom. Make sure you bring your camera too, as from here there are sweeping views towards the Farne Islands, Holy Island and Bamburgh village.

We round off today with some free time to explore the village, whether you’d prefer to potter the streets or perhaps enjoy a walk along the beach. We will return to our hotel in the late afternoon after a day exploring some of the very best that the Northumberland coast has to offer. (B, D)

Day 4 : Durham & Afternoon Tea

Location: Durham, Alnwick

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: 4* Doxford Hall Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we head to Durham, a famous university town where the River Wear weaves around the cobbled streets, leafy parks and historic sites at every turn. Just south of Newcastle, Durham is renowned for its wonderful 11th century Norman cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, described by author Bill Bryson as ‘The best cathedral on Planet Earth’.

Seen on our Cathedral tour with a local guide, it’s a truly exceptional example of Norman-Romanesque style, which is also the final resting place of Saint Cuthbert and Saint Bede the Venerable. After visiting this magnificent cathedral, we also have free time in Durham itself to explore, perhaps catch a glimpse of Durham Castle – another stop for the Harry Potter fans - or just enjoy some free time in the compact city centre.

We round off the afternoon in quintessential Durham with afternoon tea, before returning to the hotel. (B, D)

Day 5 : Cragside & Return Home

Location: National Trust - Cragside, Alnwick

Meals Included: Breakfast

Before our return home this afternoon, there’s still a little more to see. We enjoy a short morning drive through more unspoilt countryside as we head to a nearby National Trust property, Cragside. Described as ‘Britain’s original smart home’, Cragside is a truly impressive and unique Victorian country house. The original owner, William Armstrong, was an inventor and arms manufacturer who used his skills to build a house illuminated by hydroelectricity and powered by hydraulics, filled with pioneering Victorian gadgets for modern living.

The grounds are complete with man-made lakes and waterfalls, creating the fantasy mountain landscape which Lord and Lady Armstrong desired. There really is something for everyone here, from the towering trees in the Pinetum, to the pleasant paths of the Rock Garden and the beautiful Formal Gardens.

This afternoon, we’ll head back to the hotel where you can make your own way home as you wish, or even stay in the neighbouring areas of this wonderful North Eastern county. (B)

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Four nights in four-star accommodation

  • Fully Guided

    The services of our experienced and insightful tour manager throughout

  • Meals

    Breakfast and Dinner

What's Not Included

  • Insurance

  • Tipping and Gratuity

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Is the tour coach air conditioned?

    Yes

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes

  • Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?

    No

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Yes

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    We are unable to accommodate children under 9 years old at the date of departure..

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For almost 40 years

  • I have reduced mobility; can I still travel?

    We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns

  • Do I require travel insurance?

    It is a condition of booking that you carry suitable travel insurance.

  • What is my luggage allowance?

    You will receive details of your luggage allowance with your final travel documents, which are sent approximately 10 days prior to your date of departure.

Reviews of this Operator

David Clarke (Google Reviewer)  

This review is for the...

08-Aug-2023

This review is for the italian Lake Como trip Aug 1-8 Wow what a trip. Riviera from start to finish were excellent the booking and help line answering questions were very good and clear. The travel booklet you get is laid out that it is simple to read and follow with step by step info from booking in to flights to meeting the guides. Our guide Matt Purse was just the best guide and real credit to Riviera with his knowledge and straight forward approach to running the trips. Matt kept us informed and told us all the sort of info you want to know without going over the top....This chap should teach other reps ..thank you so much. The coaches they use are all clean and well equipped with usb chargers and have aircon. The places chosen to visit were well researched even down to where coaches park or drop you off. The Bernina Express was the highlight for our family and matts photo tip was welcomed. The only down point was the hotel,a little dated and evening meal in main restuarant was a bit of a let down. I think we were lucky with our room on level 7 and with balcony as the walls are very thin and noise travels. We would book again with riviera

Barbara Shillaker (Google Reviewer)  

I have been on three...

11-Jan-2024

I have been on three trips with Riviera Travel so far, with two more booked during 2024. Highly recommended. Excellent tour guides. Great program of visits. Great hotels used.

Valerie Pascoe  

We would go again in a heartbeat

22-Jan-2022

Oh my goodness, what a relief it was to actually get away! Full marks to all at Riviera for keeping us up to date before our trip and for the help so cheerfully and patiently given with the extra admin that Covid brought our way. We felt totally safe with the measures taken on board, thank you very much for this. Without exception, Staff were fantastic and our every need was attended to. The additional Covid testing ran smoothly, organised by our Riviera Reps. The guided tours were most interesting: the guides very knowledgeable and more importantly, interesting to listen to. We loved this trip and would do it again in a heartbeat. Thank you again Riviera, you were FAB!

Chris Wilson (Google Reviewer)  

Second escorted tour with this...

25-Jul-2022

Second escorted tour with this company. Did 5 days in Iceland tour. Everything went smoothly, excellent tour guide, Per. Extremely knowledgeable and interesting guy. Very friendly too. Highly recommend. Just let down by the room given at the hotel, but I guess the travel company doesn't have control over this.

Kathryn Jurin, GB  

Riviera South Africa tour - awesome

21-May-2021

Riviera have amazing holidays and tours to choose from. The one we chose was South Africa and wow! It turned out to be our best trip ever - incredible memories we will never forget. We’ve been all over the world which was because of all our experiences, this one was awesome. The organisation of the holiday, the guide and the travel was e cells that. The choice of hotels, meals, restaurants, trips was absolutely fantastic - very good quality and character - nothing bland or boring! The Riviera guide was permanently with us along with a South Africa guide and they were both extremely friendly, professional, informative and you could ask any questions you want! I would massively recommend this holiday/trip and when you’ve experienced it, you realise how reasonable the price is. We reflect on this trip a lot and thank you Riviera for giving us such a wonderful experience.

Trustpilot
Barry, GB  

Rhine Christmas markets cruise

09-Dec-2019

Just completed a 5 day trip on the Rhine. Our first river cruise and a tester for future cruises. The boat was well appointed and the cabin and public areas were spotlessly clean. The staff were attentive and contributed to the very relaxed atmosphere on the boat. The quality of the food surpassed that which we have experiened on sea cruises in recent years. I have written little because it was a faultless experience. We have booked a further cruise (in France) on the basis of our experience.

Trustpilot
Nigel Stewart (Google Reviewer)  

Cruise ship William Wordsworth: A...

15-Apr-2024

Cruise ship William Wordsworth: A cruise ship of excellence, very well appointed, comfortable & indulgent. We departed Budapest and cruised the Blue Danube heading to Vienna. The top deck offers sun loungers, a heated pool, golf and a place to just sit & relax. The cabins have everything you could want for but above all incredible comfortable. The staff are professional, courteous, and attentive and do everything to make your stay a pure pleasure. This is an experience you will remember for many years.

Christine Hardy (Google Reviewer)  

Although most people seem to...

10-Mar-2024

Although most people seem to book and pay for their holidays online, because we live close by we prefer to make a personal visit. In my opinion if they are offering this as an option they should be better equipped to accommodate visits in person. We have not been on our river cruise yet, so can't comment on that yet.

Rob Steele (Google Reviewer)  

My 3rd Riviera trip within...

16-Feb-2024

My 3rd Riviera trip within a year and I wasn't disappointed 😁 This time it was https://www.rivieratravel.co.uk/escorted-tours/southern-india-coastal-route-solo-travellers This trip, although not cheap, it really offers exceptional value for money as you see a lot of Tamil Nadu and Kerela, stay in fantastic hotels, excellent breakfasts every day as well as some lunches and dinners also included. George Bareham, our "Tour Manager" was brilliant, very professional, but also friendly and diligent. Satheeshan, our local guide was helpful and picked me up antibiotics when I got ill, he was a nice chap, if (for my taste) went on a bit and used 20 words when 1 would suffice. Mr Sweeny, our coach driver was fantastic,really professional and an exceptionally good driver. His assistant, Murgon wad a delight, always smiling and attentive. This is a full on trip, early morning starts and quite a packed itinerary, but still leaving time to laze around some brilliant hotel swimming pools. Only a couple of suggestions to improve the holiday. More shopping time in Cochin and change carriers from Etihad who, unfortunately aren't the excellent airline they used to be. But, will I use Riviera Travel again - Yes 😁

Barbara Parkes (Google Reviewer)  

Presently in Croatia staying at...

22-Sep-2023

Presently in Croatia staying at Arauana Hotel, supposedly a 4 star property, but wouldn't give it any star rating. Rooms are small and dirty. Wallpaper blistering. Meals served in a shed like lean-to. Food like warm, greasy and always self service. Second holiday with Riviera this year and neither at standard advertised. Have travelled with them previously and everything was fine, but standards have really dropped. Have booked a holiday with them next year and now dreading it. Certainly don't provide the standard advertised. We have never stayed in such a hovel and have visited youngsters in back packers accommodation which was far better than this supposedly 4 star accommodation. There are no indoor bars or lounges only a shed as a so called restaurant. Absolutely disgusting. Won't be boking with them again

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Riviera Travel requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of riviera travel charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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