Multi-Day Castles Tour

Price From: £551.20 per adult (per six adults)

When: From March 25

About: The North East of England, shaped by centuries of conflict between England and Scotland, is home to some of the country’s most impressive castles. These mighty fortresses tell the story of a turbulent past, shaping the region’s strong and passionate identity. On this full-day tour, you’ll visit a selection of these iconic castles, each with its own fascinating history of power, war, and cultural significance.

Bamburgh and Lindisfarne Begin your journey at Bamburgh Castle, a formidable fortress that has been a stronghold for over three thousand years. Famous for its role as a royal fortress during the Dark Ages, Bamburgh was once the seat of the Kings of Northumbria and later became a medieval fortress for the English crown. This historic site also gained worldwide recognition through its role in the TV series The Last Kingdom. From Bamburgh, we’ll head to nearby Holy Island (Lindisfarne), the site where the Viking Age began with a raid on the monastery in 793 AD. Explore the island's rich Christian heritage and its historical significance as a center of learning and religious life during the Dark Ages.

Alnwick and Warkworth Next, we’ll travel to Alnwick Castle, one of the most famous castles in England. Once the home of the powerful Percy family, Alnwick Castle has served as a fortification against Scottish raids and is now a popular film and TV location, featuring in productions like Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, and Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. After Alnwick, we’ll visit Warkworth Castle, another mighty fortress once owned by the Percy family. This picturesque castle is renowned for its impressive medieval ruins and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Raby Castle & Bishop Auckland Our final stop takes us to Raby Castle, a historic site that began as land granted to the Viking King Cnute. The castle became the home of the Neville family, known for their ambition and power, from supporting kings to leading rebellions. Today, Raby Castle is owned by the Vanes, the Lord and Lady Barnard, and has been beautifully transformed into a deer park, walled garden, and restaurant, blending history with modern style. We will also visit Bishop Auckland, where the Bishops of Durham once resided. Explore the impressive castle and its fascinating history, including its connections to the church and the Faith Museum, which highlights the development of Christianity throughout the British Isles.

What’s Included:

• Full-day guided tour of Bamburgh, Lindisfarne, Alnwick, Warkworth, Raby Castle, and Bishop Auckland
• Entry to all castles and museums
• Expert guide providing insights into the history and significance of these iconic sites

What to Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic sites
• Clothing suitable for all weather conditions
• A camera to capture the breathtaking views and stunning castles

Optional Add-ons:

• Pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation (please provide details when booking)