Join us for a spectacular mid-week escape through some of the finest scenery and driving roads in the North of England. From tidal islands and medieval castles to mountain passes and lakeside lunches, this mini tour packs an incredible variety into four unforgettable days.
By travelling mid-week in May, we enjoy quieter roads, better hotel rates, and – crucially - the perfect tide window to cross to Holy Island. We also neatly avoid Easter and the Bank Holidays, keeping the experience relaxed and exclusive.
What to expect:
Day 1 – Tuesday 19th May 2026 | Arrivals & Castles
We rendezvous at the magnificent Lumley Castle Hotel, just minutes from the A1(M). This 14th-century fortress sets the tone perfectly, and we’ll gather in the atmospheric Knight’s Restaurant for our first evening meal together.
Optional daytime visits include:
- Beamish Open-Air Museum
- Historic Durham City
- Metrocentre, Gateshead (for those who fancy some retail therapy)
A relaxed start, great company, and a castle stay - what better way to begin!
Day 2 – Wednesday 20th May 2026 | Coastlines & Tidal Crossings
09:30 departure
We head east for the charming coastal village of Warkworth, before following the stunning Northumberland Coastal Route north. The highlight of the day is our afternoon on Holy Island (Lindisfarne) - reached via its famous tidal causeway.
After soaking up the unique atmosphere, we cross the border into Scotland and continue to our overnight stop in Kelso.
Distance: 110 miles
Day 3 – Thursday 21st May 2026 | Moorland, Mountains & Market Towns
09:00 departure
A classic driving day. We wind through Jedburgh and into the vast landscapes of Northumberland National Park, stopping for coffee at Rochester.
From Corbridge, we take the A696, crossing the River Tyne and climbing steadily to Alston, the highest market town in England. From here, it’s one of the great highlights of the tour - the exhilarating Hartside Pass, dropping into the beautiful Vale of Eden.
Lunch awaits in Keswick, perfectly placed among the fells, before we head south to Newby Bridge for our final night.
Distance: 150 miles
Day 4 – Friday 22nd May 2026 | Motoring Heritage & Homeward Bound
We begin the morning at the Lakeland Motor Museum, a must-visit for enthusiasts, before heading to the Plough Inn at Lupton for lunch.
The journey home takes us through Kirkby Lonsdale, past Skipton and Harrogate, before rejoining the A1 south - bringing a fitting end to a truly memorable tour.
Early booking is essential to enjoy this exclusive and memorable event! Please note that specific venues are still to be finalised based on final numbers that register to attend. Deposit payers will be kept in the loop for final planning.
Book Here