Northern England: Urban Beats & Rural Retreats

Day 1

Arrival in Manchester & Transfer to Liverpool
Stay In Hard Days Night Hotel 4*

Upon landing in Manchester, you'll be greeted and transferred to Liverpool, a city renowned for its rich maritime history and vibrant cultural scene. Check into the centrally located Hard Days Night Hotel, a Beatles-inspired boutique hotel that blends modern luxury with musical heritage. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Albert Dock, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring local specialties while overlooking the Mersey River.

Overnight: Liverpool

Day 2

Liverpool Walking Tour:
Cultural & Musical Heritage

Begin your day with a private Beatles-themed tour, visiting iconic landmarks such as Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields, and the legendary Cavern Club. Your guide will bring these sites to life with fascinating stories about the Beatles' rise to fame and their impact on the music world. Next, head to the Liverpool Cathedral for a guided tour of this stunning Gothic structure. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and learn about the cathedral’s architectural significance.

After lunch, visit the Museum of Liverpool,  explore exhibits on the city’s rich heritage, understand  its role in the industrial revolution and its sporting achievements.

Overnight:  Liverpool

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3

Train to York
Stay In the Grand, York 5*

After breakfast, check out and proceed to Liverpool Lime Street Station to board a train to York, a city steeped in medieval history. Upon arrival, make your way to The Grand, York, a luxurious hotel housed in a historic building, offering elegant rooms and exceptional service. After settling in, take a leisurely walk through the Shambles, a narrow, cobbled street lined with timber-framed buildings, and perhapnal afternoon tea at one of the quaint tearooms.

Overnight: York

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4

York History Walking Tour

Start your day with a private guided tour of York Minster, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Your guide will lead you through its intricate stained-glass windows, ancient crypts, and the awe-inspiring Chapter House.

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided visit to the Jorvik Viking Centre, where you’ll learn about York’s Viking past through immersive exhibits. Wrap up the day with a guided walk along York’s medieval city walls, offering stunning views and stories about its role in the city's defense.

Overnight:  York

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5

Drive to Durham W/ Stop In Harrogate
Harrogate Walking Tour
Stay In Hotel Indigo Durham 4*

Travel from York to Durham with a stop in Harrogate, a charming spa town. Take a guided walking tour through the picturesque Valley Gardens and learn about Harrogate’s Victorian history as a wellness retreat. Enjoy afternoon tea at the iconic Bettys Tea Rooms with commentary from your guide on the region’s culinary traditions.

Continue to Durham, upon arrival check in at Hotel Indigo Durham. Have the evening to wonder around your hotel and admire the landscape.

Overnight: Durham

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6

Castles of Northumberland &
Hadrian’s Wall Guided Tour 

Embark on this journey to Northumberland with your guide, beginning with a tour of Alnwick Castle. Learn about the castle’s history as a noble residence and its cinematic appearances, including its role in Harry Potter. Your guide will also lead you through Alnwick Garden, a stunning contemporary landscape. In the afternoon, visit Bamburgh Castle on a private guided tour. Perched on a dramatic coastal cliff, the castle offers a glimpse into medieval life. If time permits, your guide can take you to Holy Island (Lindisfarne) to explore its ancient priory and enjoy its serene beauty.

End your day with a visit to Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches across northern England. Your guide will provide insights into its Roman history and significance, with a stop at one of its key landmarks, such as Housesteads Roman Fort or Vindolanda, where you can explore ancient ruins and learn about life on the edge of the Roman Empire.

Overnight: Durham

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7

Drive to the Lake District
Stay In Another Place, The Lake 3*

After breakfast drive to the Lake District, check into Another Place, The Lake, a nature-inspired lodge nestled on the shores of Ullswater, offering cozy accommodations and breathtaking views. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding trails or enjoy water activities on the lake.

Meet your guide at the hotels entrance, he will lead you on a scenic hike around Tarn Hows, a tranquil spot with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Learn about the region’s natural history and its connection to poets and writers such as William Wordsworth.

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided visit to Hill Top, the former home of Beatrix Potter. Your guide will share stories about her life, her inspiration from the Lake District’s landscapes, and her enduring legacy in children’s literature. End the day with dinner at a traditional lakeside inn.

Overnight: Lake District

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8

Drive to Manchester W/ Stop In Lancaster
Stay In the Midland Hotel 4*

After a leisurely breakfast, begin your journey back to Manchester. Stop in Lancaster for a guided tour of Lancaster Castle. Your guide will delve into the castle’s history, including its role as a courthouse and prison. Stroll through Williamson Park and enjoy views of the Ashton Memorial, an iconic Edwardian monument. Explore its historic city center and perhaps visit the Lancaster Maritime Museum, which showcases the city's maritime heritage. 

Continue to Manchester and check into The Midland Hotel, an iconic Edwardian hotel offering luxurious rooms and a central location. In the evening, explore Manchester's vibrant dining scene or relax at the hotel's renowned restaurant.

Overnight: Manchester

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9

Departure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure, taking with you cherished memories of England’s rich history, stunning countryside, and cultural treasures.

Meals included: Breakfast