Day 1
Leaving
the local area in the early morning, we head to the beautiful, historic
city of Durham. Visit the huge Norman cathedral and imposing castle,
and stroll the steep winding alleys (or vennels) before we continue to
our hotel, arriving in good time for dinner.
Day 2
Today's
highlight is our visit to Lindisfarne, the fabled offshore island only
accessible at low tide via a narrow causeway. Stroll around the village
and take in the fabulous views, visit romantic Lindisfarne Castle and
the ancient Priory ruin with its 'rainbow arch', or enjoy the
interactive 'Lindisfarne Gospels' exhibition in the Lindisfarne Centre
(all entry fees payable locally)

During the day we'll also visit
Bamburgh, home famous lighthouse-keeper's daughter, Grace Darling,
before returning to our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 3
Today's
highlight is our visit to the Alnwick Garden. The Castle itself is a
magnificent medieval border fortress that was extensively restored in
the 19th Century.

The garden, however, is the real marvel. From
the symmetrical design and 15,000-plus plants of the Ornamental Garden
to the water sculptures arranged around a 'serpent' shaped from holly;
and from the Poison Garden containing some of athe world's deadliest
beauties to the bamboo Labyrinth, there's simply so much to see.

In the mid-afternoon we'll begin our journey home, arriving back in the local area by early to mid evening.