Sunday 15th September – Wednesday 25th September 2024
On arrival at Glasgow Airport you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to your city centre hotel. Depending on your arrival, after settling into your hotel, meet with a private city guide for the afternoon to explore this unique city.
Discover the stories tied in with the varied architecture of streets that have been home to all kinds of creatives over the years. See the influences of Charles Rennie MackIntosh and admire the popular contemporary graffiti murals tucked into unexpected corners all over the city. Your guide will depart late afternoon, leaving you to enjoy dinner in one of the cities many exciting restaurants.
Overnight: Glasgow | Hotel Du Vin, Glasgow
Room Type: Suite and Junior Suite
Meals Included: None
After breakfast, meet with your private guide, who will also be your driver for your onward journey to the west coast. As you drive towards Wemyss Bay, they will share insights into Scotland’s history and landmarks, board the ferry and enjoy scenic views during the crossing to the Isle of Bute.
Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and head our to explore this beautiful island. Enjoy an afternoon at Mount Stuart House & Gardens delving into the island’s rich historical tapestry, where each architectural detail narrates a story of bygone eras. Indulge in a traditional high tea and enjoy learning from your knowledgeable guide.
Settle in for the evening with a drink in a local pub, perhaps you will stumble some live music before dinner and rest.
Overnight: Isle of Bute | The Glenburn Hotel
Room Type: Suite and Superior Kings
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Today is all about exploring your family heritage on the Isle of Bute as you take a journey through time and lineage. From visiting ancestral homes and landmarks to uncovering buried stories in local archives, every step is a poignant connection to your roots, weaving a tapestry of personal history against the backdrop of the island’s beauty.
This afternoon, board a private boat tour around the Isle of Bute, where every curve of the coastline reveals hidden coves and rugged cliffs steeped in natural beauty. As you glide over the waters, enjoy a gourmet picnic against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery, seeing the island from a different perspective.
Back on dry land, you will have the afternoon to explore, stop into local shops and museums before retiring for the evening, full of new stories and tales from your families heritage and the beautiful Isle of Bute.
Overnight: Isle of Bute | The Glenburn Hotel
Room Type: Suite and Superior Kings
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Begin your day with a visit to the historic Rothesay Castle with your guide, where the echoes of medieval Scotland resonate within its ancient walls. After immersing yourself in history, board the ferry back to the mainland, bidding farewell to the Isle of Bute’s enchanting shores.
As you journey towards Edinburgh, stop for a leisurely lunch and a captivating detour to Falkirk to marvel at the majestic Kelpies, towering equine sculptures that stand as guardians of Scottish folklore, before continuing your scenic drive to the bustling capital city of Edinburgh.
Upon arrival at your hotel, your guide will leave you. Settle into your hotel and perhaps take a walk to one of the cities many restaurants for dinner.
Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: Suite and King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning immerse yourselves in the winding cobbled streets of historic Old Town Edinburgh as you enjoy a private walking tour with an expert local guide. Discover the highlights of this unique capital city from the Palace of Holyroodhouse all the way up the ‘Royal Mile’ to the mighty ancient fortress which is Edinburgh Castle itself. Walk the ramparts atop castle rock and hear the tales of the One O’Clock gun and the stories of locals of times past. Enjoy a tour of the castle before lunch.
In the afternoon, meet back up with your guide and take a tour of Mary King’s Close, a guided journey into the hidden streets and alleyways of this ancient city and the tales that lie within. There is also time to drop into local shops, delicatessens and bookstores pick up some souvenirs.
This evening, celebrate your adventure in Scotland with a meal and drinks under the twinkling city lights before retiring for the night.
Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: Suite and King
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Today, bid farewell to Scotland as you meet your private transfer to take you to board the train for a picturesque journey South to Newcastle, England. Admire the scenic views of Northumberland’s coastline as you cross the border into England and travel along the clifftops. Upon arrival, meet your guide who will take you further on your journey into the historic city of Durham where you can settle into your accommodation.
Overnight: Durham | Hotel Indigo Durham
Room Type: 2x Double Premium
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Spend today tracing the footsteps of your ancestors amidst the quaint cobblestone streets and historic landmarks of Seaham. Uncover past family homes and locations, each revelation bringing a deeper connection to your roots. Take the opportunity to stroll along Seaham Beach and admire the heritage coast, where rugged cliffs meet the tranquil sea, and colourful sea glass glistens along the shore. Wander through the town, dotted with charming cafes, boutiques, and galleries.
As the sun sets, unwind with a delicious dinner of local cuisine, savouring the flavours of the sea, surrounded by the echoes of generations past filling you with a profound sense of belonging to this storied coastal town.
Overnight: Durham | Hotel Indigo Durham
Room Type: 2x Double Premium
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Wake up to the soft glow of dawn in Durham, ready for a day steeped in history. Meet your local expert guide to lead you through the centuries-old streets to Durham Cathedral, a breathtaking example of Norman architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, the soaring columns and stained glass windows mesmerise as tales of its construction and cultural significance unfold.
Moving on to Durham Castle, perched above the River Wear, you delve into medieval feuds and royal intrigue, exploring its halls and courtyards. After a traditional pub lunch, you meander through cobblestone lanes, discovering hidden gems and architectural marvels, gaining a profound appreciation for Durham’s evolution.
As the day wanes, you’re left spellbound by Durham’s rich history, grateful for the expert guidance that brought it to life.
Overnight: Durham | Hotel Indigo Durham
Room Type: 2x Double Premium
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning, leave historic Durham behind and journey into the North Riding of Yorkshire Dales, stopping along the way to visit several historic sites. First is Barnard Castle where you’ll journey through centuries of history, as you explore the imposing ruins of this medieval fortress perched high above the River Tees. From its strategic vantage point, you can admire breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside while reflecting on the castle’s storied past. Next, visit Egglestone Abbey, the charming ruins of a small monastery from the 13th Century.
End your afternoon by exploring the impressive ruins of Henry II’s Bowes Castle. With its winding passages and towering battlements, you’ll be transported back in time to the days of medieval England. From the panoramic views atop the castle’s towers to the echoes of the past in its dimly lit chambers, every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once called this fortress home.
Continue your journey into the spectacular Lake District where you guide will leave you at your hotel to settle in for the evening.
Overnight: Lake District | Rothay Manor
Room Type: 2x Classic Plus
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Enjoy a delightful day in the Lake District as you board a traditional steamer boat for a scenic journey across Ullswater to Howtown. Revel in the breathtaking landscapes that unfold along the tranquil water, immersing yourself in the serenity of this iconic region.
Upon arrival in Howtown, set off on a picturesque walk back to the charming town of Glenridding along the shores of Ullswater. After the invigorating stroll, treat yourself to a leisurely lunch in the lovely town, savouring local flavours and soaking in the lakeside ambience.
The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace, whether you choose to walk into Grasmere village, explore the town, or simply enjoy the serenity of this idyllic Lake District setting. Your guide will transfer you back to your hotel in the heart of the hill this evening.
Overnight: Lake District | Rothay Manor
Room Type: 2x Classic Plus
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Please see our booking terms here.
9 Old Elvet |
Durham |
County Durham |
DH1 3HL |
England
Phone: +44 (0)800 988 0220
Web: ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/gb/en/durham/mmedh
Sunday 15th September – Wednesday 25th September 2024