Discover Durham, Land of the Prince Bishops

Day 1

A morning departure as we head north, we spend time in Ripon for lunch and to explore the market square and cathedral. We continue north to our hotel, Redworth Hall. Dinner in the hotel.

Day 2

This morning we visit Raby Castle, one of England’s finest medieval castles, which has stood proud and defiant for almost 1,000 years. The Victorian and Regency interiors are as opulent as the exterior is imposing and showcase everything from porcelain to sculptures to Victorian copper cooking utensils and The Raby Tapestry. In the afternoon we visit Bowes Museum a Grade-1 listed French-style château in the picturesque market town of Barnard Castle. One of the most important museums outside London, this monumental house hosts outstanding collections of art, fashion and design in its stunning galleries. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 3

Today starts with a visit to Mount Grace Priory, the remains of a 14th century Carthusian priory and gardens enfolded in North Yorkshire woodlands. We can wander the priory ruins to view the church tower, great cloister and a reconstructed monk’s cell, gaining fascinating insight into the monks who lived here in solitude and silence. We can also roam the glorious gardens. This afternoon, our explorations continue at the Locomotion national railway museum in Shildon, the place where the world’s first steam-powered railway came to life. Explore the indoor and outdoor collections of historic trains and locomotives, including Stephenson’s Rocket, Timothy Hackworth’s San Pareil, carriages, wagons and more. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 4

This morning we have a leisurely breakfast and some time to enjoy the fabulous leisure facilities at our hotel before heading to Bishop Auckland where we are treated to a light lunch of soup & sandwiches at Auckland Palace. Afterwards we have the rest of the afternoon at leisure to explore the Palace, Spanish Galleries, Walled Garden and the rest of Bishop Auckland. Final dinner at the hotel.

Day 5

A final breakfast at the hotel before we make our way back home.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner