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Northumberland

England

An ancient kingdom steeped in history

The northernmost county in England, this wild and rugged region has a proud heritage. Crowned with captivating castles, sweeping moorland and friendly market towns, it’s an unmissable destination. This unique area has an ancient past reflected in its fascinating historic sites and beautiful landscaped gardens, complemented by its remote scenery and windswept coast.

NOBLE NORTHUMBERLAND

Castles and grandeur in these once fierce borderlands

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“Our tour to Northumbria was the best ever – I can’t tell you how amazing it was! Our driver and coach company were excellent as ever. There were many highlights, but in particular the guides were exceptional and we had a really good mix of gardens and architecture.” – Elizabeth, Group Organiser

From £539 per person

based on two sharing in a twin/double room, with a minimum of 35 passengers travelling in a specific month

Best time to go

April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November

Suggested Hotel

Holiday Inn Gosforth Park, Newcastle

  • Modern hotel in a rural, countryside setting
  • Just 6 miles from Newcastle
  • Spacious bedrooms are equipped with all modern amenities
  • Leisure facilities include a heated indoor pool
  • Relaxing lounge, bar and restaurant on site

Not the hotel for your group? Other hotels are available, contact us.

Attractions:

Cragside (NT)

This astounding house and grounds was a wonder of the Victorian age. Once home to innovator Lord Armstrong, Cragside was the world’s first house to be lit by hydroelectricity, and his ingenious gadgets can be found throughout the property. Outside the house, the gardens are extraordinary: within atmospheric woodland, an enormous rock garden tumbles towards formal gardens and an Iron Bridge, and an excess of seven million plants surround five lakes.

Wallington House (NT)

This grand house sits in an impressive 13,000 acre estate. Packed with pre-Raphaelite paintings, fine furniture and unusual curiosities, Wallington was once home to the unconventional Trevelyan family. Outside the house, informal landscaping abounds, with hidden gardens, stone staircases and floral borders.

Durham

The grandiose city of Durham is packed with fascinating history and architecture. The centre is overlooked by a majestic cathedral and ancient castle: set on a rocky promontory above the city, these icons form one of the first World Heritage Sites and present an imposing profile. The stunning 11th century cathedral displays Romanesque traits, whilst the castle is a Norman fortification currently utilised by the prestigious Durham University.

Alnwick Castle & Gardens

This illustrious 14th century castle is the Duke of Northumberland’s ancestral home. The mighty fortress is as impressive inside as out, with lavish state rooms and a splendid display of Italian artworks. Alnwick is set amongst ‘Capability’ Brown-designed landscapes with lovely woodland trails.

Alternatives

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

This tiny, tidal island is dramatically connected to the mainland via a slim causeway. The ancient priory of Lindisfarne is thrust above the swirling grey sea by the rocky isle, which has witnessed the arrival (and departure) of saints, Viking raids and the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

Chillingham Castle

Known as much for its ghosts as for its extensive history, this stronghold has existed since the 12th century. Its fringe of battlements indicate the many sieges in the castle’s past, and the flagstone interiors still echo its medieval character. The surrounding grounds include areas of woodland as well as formal gardens.

Bamburgh Castle

This imposing fortress gazes out across the North Sea, and is a symbol of Northumbria’s proud history. The site of Bamburgh has witnessed brutal history dating back to pre-historic times, and the castle was a casualty of the War of the Roses. It was rescued from ruin during the Victorian era by the industrialist Lord Armstrong, who also built Cragside.

The Bowes Museum

Home to internationally significant collections of fine and decorative arts, the Bowes Museum dates back to the 19th century. The diverse collections span three floors of this magnificent French-style chateau.

Slaley Hall, Hexham

Slaley Hall is a characterful Edwardian mansion with fully modern facilities. Inside are found spacious & comfortable rooms as well as great leisure facilities, including an indoor pool & a soothing spa. Set in 1,000 acres of Northumbrian countryside, it's a lovely hotel from which to explore the surrounding area.

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We love to talk travel! If our site has inspired you, please do get in touch to discuss your group's specific requirements on the phone number below. Alternatively, drop us an email and we'll get back to you.

Our office hours are 09:00 – 17:00 (UK time), Monday to Friday. If you are on tour and need to contact us outside of office hours, please call the 24hr on tour assistance number.

(If calling from abroad, please remember to add 0044 and drop the first 0 from the below numbers.)

Call: 01225 764205
Email: enquiries@successtours.com

24hr On Tour Assistance Number:
07957 838280