We have three rooms available for the upcoming weekend in Northumberland taking place between 17th and 20th September.
For full event details please see – www.gccg.org.uk/events/northumberland-borders-tour/
Or contact the organiser, Mark Wells at yorkshire@gccg.org.uk
Northumberland is one of England’s most magnificent counties which an ancient heritage. This vast county is one of contrasts ranging from wild hills and fells to the amazing golden sandy beaches. Northumberland has more castles than any other county many dating from its time as the frontier between England and Scotland. Its history spans thousands of years from the earliest iron age settlements, the world heritage site of Hadrian’s wall, a vast range of castles and fortifications from the centuries of border wars with Scotland to political reformers and some of the greatest industrialists of the Victorian era.
For those who have not visited Northumberland before, it is the most amazing and best kept secret in the UK! It is famous of its amazing coastline, castles, unspoilt stunning countryside, families, battles, Vera and so much more. In 2014, we visited Cragside (the first house to be lit by electricity) Bamburgh Castle and Lindisfarne (Holy Island). Also in that area is Alnwick Castle (as featured in Harry Potter and Downton), Howick, the home of Earl Grey, plus Berwick on Tweed, with its amazing bridges, barracks and coastline.
As we are staying in one of the most northern parts of England, it seems logical that we should have a drive into the Scottish Borders. This are is also of outstanding beauty and as it is close to the border, there are castles and great houses too. The area hails many famous places and people, including Jim Clark and of course, Mary, Queen of Scots adds to the history.
Accommodation:
Our stay is based around the luxury of Doxford Hall, a magnificent country house hotel and spa, set in the heart of the county. The original Hall, built in 1818, stands within its own private 10 acre estate. Each of the 31 bedrooms have their own traditional charm and character. Though secluded, the hotel is easily reached from the A1 and the perfect base to explore this amazing county. Facilities include a fine dining restaurant and the highest levels of accommodation as well as an extensive spa and leisure club offering health and beauty therapies if all the driving gets too much.
The Tour
We will be visiting some of the most magnificent buildings, whilst experiencing amazing roads in some of the most amazing landscapes.
We have confirmed our booking at Manderson, one of the finest houses in the Scottish Borders, which has been featured in The Edwardian Country House and Belgravia to name but a few.
We will be confirming other venues as soon as we can, (other venues have closed because of the pandemic and or seasonal) but we intend in spending one day in Northumberland, as well as exploring some more of the Borders region too!
What’s Included?
The cost of the tour covers all meals from your arrival to departure, plus entry to the venues. The weekend includes a drinks reception, where you will be able to meet with the organisers and other people on the tour. All the evening meals will be at Doxford Hall and as is the normal fashion, the Sunday evening will include a Gala Dinner. We also aim to provide some entertainment on the Saturday evening.