England

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service and journey to Cornwall. A warm welcome awaits you at the Esplanade Hotel with a glass of fizz or luxurious hot chocolate on arrival.

Evening dinner this evening is served in the restaurant.

Start Christmas Eve morning in Falmouth with a peaceful stroll along the pretty harbour, just as the town begins to glow with festive lights. Enjoy independent cafés and bakeries opening for seasonal treats, and take in the crisp sea air and coastal views before the Christmas celebrations begin.

We return to the hotel in time for a festive cream tea and time to relax. There will be a glass of mulled wine before dinner this evening followed by live entertainment in the bar. A mince pie and night cap rounds off the day at 10pm.

Merry Christmas! Unwrap your presents and enjoy a relaxed day at the Esplanade Hotel. There will be a visit from Santa and a traditional Christmas Day lunch. Watch the King's Speech in the Elements Bar followed by a fun festive quiz in the afternoon. This evening, there will be a festive buffet and live music to finish the day.

Celebrate Boxing Day with a festive morning visit to the historic city of Truro, where you can enjoy post-Christmas shopping, explore the charming streets and independent boutiques, and soak up the seasonal atmosphere in Cornwall's picturesque county capital.

We return to the hotel for an afternoon tea. Why not take a Boxing Day stroll on Fistral beach and take in the Cornish sea air? Enjoy dinner this evening in the hotel, followed by live entertainment.

Return home.

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then on to Newcastle and our hotel for four nights. We enjoy a mulled wine with a mince pie on arrival to get us into the Christmas spirit. A delicious 3-course dinner will be served in the Empire restaurant.

After breakfast, we journey further north to explore the highlights of stunning Northumberland. We make a stop at Alnwick where you will have some free time to explore this historic town or grab a coffee in one of its cafés.

The highlight of today is an included visit to Bamburgh Castle which is dressed for Christmas. The views of the coastline are breathtaking from the ramparts and you can truly appreciate the splendour of this stunning part of the world.

We return to the hotel in the afternoon to enjoy a cream tea. You will then have free time to either relax before dinner or explore Newcastle as your hotel is located in the heart of this fascinating city. An included glass of fizz is waiting for you this evening before your 3-course meal. After your meal, you will be treated to Christmas classics by one of the local choirs. For those who wish to attend midnight mass, St John The Baptist Church is a few minutes walk from the hotel and a mug of hot chocolate will be waiting for you on the return to the hotel after the service.

Merry Christmas! After breakfast why not relax in the hotel before a traditional 3-course Christmas lunch is served. Watch the Kings Speech in one of the multiple lounge rooms. A 2-course finger buffet will be served in the evening and there will be board games to enjoy with your fellow passengers.

After breakfast, we will visit historic Durham, famous for its cathedral and university. Enjoy the Boxing Day sales in the many high street shops or enjoy a stroll around the historic centre.

This evening after dinner, enjoy music from across the decades.

We depart the hotel this morning, filled with magical Christmas memories, and return home.

Regional departure by coach then we head to Durham to spend an afternoon in this historic city. You will have free time at leisure to discover the impressive Durham Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, and explore the nearby Durham Castle with its fascinating history.

Or, if you prefer leisurely strolls, there is beautiful scenery and stunning views of the surrounding countryside along the River Wear. Plus, the city’s quaint shops and cafés provide a lovely spot to pause and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee!

We then head to our hotel for a two-night stay. Relax and enjoy dinner with your fellow passengers.

This morning we take a short drive to Newcastle. We will pass the impressive "Angel of the North" one of the Uk's most iconic public sculptures and then enjoy some free time in the city centre. Walk to the quayside to tale in views of the iconic bridges, including the Tyne Bridge and Gateshead Millennium Bridge. If you prefer museums, the Discovery Museum is free and offers fascinating exhibits on local history, science, and engineering. For shopaholics there is the historic indoor Grainger Market or the Central Arcade is an Edwardian covered shopping arcade located in the centre.

We return to the hotel in the afternoon to relax and enjoy an early dinner, before we journey to Bishop Auckland to watch Kynren.

Kynren is a spectacular outdoor show that takes you on a journey through 2,000 years of British history, all set against the stunning backdrop of Bishop Auckland in County Durham.

This multi-award-winning, live-action performance brings history to life with hundreds of actors, horses, and dazzling special effects, covering key events and characters, from Roman times to World War II. The show is performed by 1,000 cast members and is packed with thrilling battles, beautiful costumes, and moving stories, making it an unforgettable experience. Going to see Kynren is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Britain, all in one exciting evening, offering a unique and engaging way to learn about the past.

With its dramatic storytelling and breathtaking visuals, Kynren is sure to leave a lasting impression, providing an evening of entertainment that’s both educational and thoroughly enjoyable. It’s a grand celebration of British history you won’t want to miss!

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we depart and enjoy our direct journey home.

Regional departure by coach and journey to Yorkshire. We make a stop this afternoon at one of Yorkshire's hidden gems: Wentworth Woodhouse. The Grade I-listed country house is one of the grandest stately homes in the country and is full of remarkable history. It boasts the longest façade of any stately home in the UK and has over 50 acres of private gardens. Entrance is included to the house, where you can learn about the restoration work and enjoy the state rooms. There is a lovely tearoom serving refreshments.

We then head to our hotel and enjoy dinner this evening,

This morning we visit another of Yorkshire finest stately homes: Harewood House. Built in the 18th century and still home to the Lascelles family, it combines magnificent architecture, world-class art collections, exquisite Chippendale furniture, and beautifully landscaped gardens designed by Capability Brown.

Visitors can explore elegant Staterooms, enjoy sweeping views across the lake and parkland, and discover vibrant gardens including the renowned Himalayan Garden. There are also plenty of options for a spot of lunch or tea coffee and cake.

This afternoon we visit RHS Harlow Carr, nestled on the edge of Harrogate. Set across 58 acres, the garden is renowned for its streamside walks, woodland gardens, seasonal displays, and inspiring garden designs that thrive in northern conditions. Managed by the Royal Horticultural Society, Harlow Carr offers year-round colour, expert gardening inspiration, and a quintessential Yorkshire experience.

We depart the hotel this morning and visit Cannon Hall. This stunning Georgian country house is set within beautiful historic parkland and landscaped gardens. The museum is free of charge and the walled garden and fairyland garden are both a must see. For fans of the popular TV series 'Springtime on the Farm', the next door farm is the filming location for the Channel 5 show. The farm itself does have an entrance fee, but the house and gift shop are free for you to explore.

We journey home this afternoon.

Regional departure, then journey towards London.

We will stop at Royal Windsor this afternoon to give you some free time to explore. Stroll through the charming, cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the heritage of Britain’s royal past or enjoy the riverside setting along the River Thames. Browse the independent shops and cafés or enjoy a drink in one of Windsor's traditional pubs or riverside restaurants.

We then journey to our hotel for a two-night stay. Dinner this evening will be served in the restaurant.

Hats at the ready! After breakfast, we head to Royal Ascot.

Your included ticket is for the Windsor Enclosure, offering a front-row experience like no other! The trackside lawns offer an exhilarating first glimpse at the horses racing for victory as they thunder down the track. Get caught up in the atmosphere as you watch your favourite race to Royal Ascot glory.

Please note: whilst there is no official dress code for the Windsor Enclosure, guests are encouraged to dress in smart daywear. A hat, headpiece or fascinator is encouraged along with a jacket and collared shirt.

There are limited tickets to upgrade to the Queen Anne Enclosure on booking. It is the only public enclosure that grants access to the coveted Parade Ring, Bandstand and Grandstand. The Queen Anne Enclosure provides an unparalleled view of the world-class racing on offer. Dress code is applicable for this enclosure. Please see the Royal Ascot website for specific details on this.

After a memorable day, we return to the hotel and enjoy dinner.

We depart London this morning, enjoying an en route visit to historic Oxford.

Home of the prestigious University of Oxford and celebrated as the "City of Dreaming Spires, Oxford combines stunning architecture and charming streets lined with honey-colored stone buildings. You will have free time to explore, so why not visit one of the historic colleges, the Bodleian Library or the Ashmolean Museum?

We then journey home.

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service then on to Darlington for a four-night stay.

Trip to Durham in the ‘Land of the Prince Bishops’, whose Cathedral and Castle has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the jewel in the crown of an extraordinary county.

Enjoy a visit to the fascinating Beamish Open-Air Museum. A living, working museum set in 300 acres of Durham countryside, costumed folk bring to life the Town, Pit Village, Home Farm and Pockerley Old Hall. Telling the stories of life as it was in the 18th and 19th centuries, this award-winning museum has many North East tales to tell!

This morning we discover the charming town of Barnard Castle. This historic market town takes its name from the castle around which it grew (Entrance to the castle itself is not included). Home to many antique shops, independent stores and delightful cafés, there’s plenty to see and do here. We then return to the hotel this afternoon for free time.

Return home.

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service then on to our hotel for a four-night stay.

Enjoy spectacular scenery on our included excursion travelling along the Northumberland Coast. We make our way via Warkworth and pretty Seahouses to call at Bamburgh, which lies in the shadow of the glorious castle.

Explore the historic city of Durham, where the dramatic skyline is dominated by the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Cathedral and Castle. Bill Bryson called Durham 'a perfect little city' and with churches, chapels and cafés dotted throughout, the city has an illustrious, religious and tempestuous past that can be uncovered in many of its attractions.

We follow the route of Hadrian’s Wall, calling at the ancient market town of Hexham and visiting Chesters Roman Fort. Here, we learn more about what life was like on one of the Roman Empire’s most northern outposts and the most complete Roman cavalry fort in Britain.

Return home.

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then on to Newcastle for a four-night stay.

This tiny, 2-sq mile island packs a lot in with religious significance dating back centuries.

Connected to the mainland by a causeway that is only accessible at low tide, Lindisfarne is much the same as when St. Aidan founded a monastery here in 635 AD.

We then return via Seahouses, a delightful Northumberland Coast village.

Explore Durham, in the ‘Land of the Prince Bishops’, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grand Norman-era Cathedral dominates the landscape and there is a plethora of delightful shops and cafés to enjoy in the cobbled streets.

We then return to Newcastle for an afternoon at leisure.

Today we visit Alnwick, home to an impressive castle and gardens and is bursting with pretty streets and interesting shops, such as Barter Books, one of the largest second-hand bookshops in Europe.

We then take a scenic drive along the beautiful Northumbrian Coast. With wide, sandy beaches, quaint villages, and impressive castles, this stretch of coastline is some of the most beautiful in the country.

Return home.

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then we will board the ferry to the Isle of Wight and continue on to our hotel for four nights. Enjoy dinner this evening in the hotel.

Today, enjoy an included excursion to experience the coast of the Isle of Wight and view the famous Needles.

We depart for Cowes, where we board our morning Solent Cruise from the harbour and then travel along the island coastline with views of Hurst Castle and the Victorian forts. Get up close to the active 19th-century Needles Lighthouse, with full commentary throughout the cruise. A bar is on board serving hot and cold drinks and snacks.

We disembark for some free time in Cowes. Nestled on the northern coast of the Isle of Wight, Cowes is a charming seaside town renowned for its rich maritime heritage. Stroll along the vibrant waterfront and marina, with views of yachts and sailing boats, and explore the town's independent shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants.

We return to the hotel for dinner this evening, followed by entertainment.

Enjoy a day at leisure today to enjoy Sandown or why not join the optional excursion to Ryde? Known for its beautiful sandy beach and historic pier, this large town is one of the oldest and longest seaside piers in the UK. Ryde offers a traditional British seaside experience and has plenty of shops and cafés. There is also Appley Park – a peaceful green space overlooking the sea.

This morning we enjoy an included visit to Carisbrooke Castle. This English Heritage attraction is a great fortress which began life as an Anglo-Saxon earthwork defence against Viking raids. The Normans raised the shell keep on its towering mound, which you can climb up for amazing views. The castle's most famous resident was Charles I, who was imprisoned here after his Civil War defeat. You'll find Charles I memorabilia and changing exhibitions in the Carisbrooke Castle Museum. The castle's best-known modern residents are the much-loved Carisbrooke donkeys. They still demonstrate the treadwheel, which once raised water from the castle well. Meet them in their stables and hear their story, then perhaps stop at the tearoom above the castle's former carriage room. It serves a delicious selection of locally produced treats.

After our visit, we have some time in Newport. Stroll through the historic town centre and take in the peaceful views along the River Medina. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants if you wish to have a bite of lunch.

This afternoon we travel back to the seafront at Sandown to visit another fantastic attraction on the island. The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is home to a range of rescued animals, from big cats to brown bears. You'll take a guided tour of the centre and learn about their stories. Its striking bamboo domes are among the first of their kind in Europe and provide spacious homes for lemurs and other primates. Recent arrivals include brown bear brothers Benji and Balu, who were rescued after years of poor conditions and transported more than 3,000 miles to their new home on the Isle of Wight.

Return home.

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then on to Newquay and our hotel for four nights.

Today, we enjoy included excursions to two of Cornwall's most popular towns. St Ives is considered the dazzling jewel in Cornwall’s crown with its picturesque fishing harbour, maze of narrow cobbled streets, independent shops and fisherman’s cottages. We then journey to Penzance, known for its majestic cliffs, rocky coves and sandy beaches.

Why not try the local food, such as a traditional Cornish Pasty, or browse the shops along Chapel Street?

Enjoy a day at leisure in vibrant Newquay.

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to visit two more of Cornwall's treasures – Looe and Polperro. Looe is a picturesque fishing harbour situated on the South East coast, and with one of the largest fishing fleets in Cornwall, it is an ideal place to enjoy fresh seafood.

From here, we’ll head to Polperro, a picture-postcard Cornish fishing town with whitewashed cottages and a pretty harbour dotted with cafés and gift shops.

Today, we explore Cornwall's myths and legends with an interesting visit to Bodmin Moor, where the beast is supposed to roam!

A stop at the imposing Bodmin Jail is next, where we’ll learn about life in the Georgian and Victorian penal system.

From here, we’ll continue to the Jamaica Inn, which is Cornwall's most famous smugglers haunt and the inspiration for Daphne du Maurier's best-selling novel.

Our final visit of the day is to pretty Port Isaac. Once a hang-out for the notorious Cornish pirate, it is now a fishing village with olde-world charm, and some may also recognise it from the well-known TV series Doc Martin, which is filmed here.

Return home.

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then on to Newquay and our hotel for four nights.

Enjoy a day at leisure in vibrant Newquay, or why not join our optional excursion to beautiful St Ives and the ancient market town of Penzance? St Ives is one of the most popular resorts in Cornwall, with award-winning beaches, boutiques, art galleries and craft shops, whilst Penzance boasts a rich sea-faring history.

Today we visit the magnificent Eden Project. Experience the sights, smells and scale of the rainforests in the Rainforest Biome, amble amongst the orange and lemon trees in the Mediterranean Biome, and in the 30-acre Outdoor Garden discover a wide variety of plants that flourish in the Cornish sunshine. The vast exhibits and fantastic displays attract visitors from all over the world.

Jaunt to the popular maritime resort of Falmouth, a bustling seaside town with plenty of attractions and shops to explore.

Return home.

Regional departure, then we journey to the beautiful Cotswolds, a region renowned for its rolling hills and honey-coloured stone cottages. Your first stop is the historic market town of Moreton-in-Marsh. Enjoy time to explore its traditional high street, browse independent shops, and soak up the character of a town that has welcomed travellers for centuries.

Continue to the picturesque town of Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds and famous for its historic market square, antique shops, and quaint cafés. Wander through its atmospheric streets and discover the rich history that makes this one of the region's most beloved destinations.

We continue to Bourton-on-the-Water, often known as the 'Venice of the Cotswolds'. Set along the banks of the River Windrush, this idyllic village is famous for its charming low stone bridges, beautiful riverside setting, and traditional Cotswold architecture. Enjoy free time to stroll along the river, visit local attractions, browse boutique shops, or simply relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

We then travel to Swindon and our hotel for two nights. Dinner is served this evening in the restaurant.

Today, discover over 1,000 years of royal history on this memorable day out to the historic town of Windsor, including entry to the magnificent Windsor Castle.

Travel in comfort through the English countryside to Windsor, one of Britain's most charming and historic royal towns. Upon arrival, visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and an official residence of the British monarch. Explore the spectacular State Apartments, adorned with priceless works of art and royal treasures, and visit St George's Chapel, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and the final resting place of many monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II. Learn about the castle's fascinating history as you discover its grand halls, stately rooms, and beautiful grounds.

After your castle visit, enjoy free time to explore the picturesque town of Windsor. Wander through its cobbled streets, browse traditional shops and boutiques, stop for lunch in one of the many cafés or restaurants, and take in views of the River Thames. The town's rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere make it one of England's most popular visitor destinations.

Today we begin our journey home, stopping at historic Oxford on the way to give you some free time to explore another of England's charming cities. Known as the 'City of Dreaming Spires', Oxford is perfect for a stroll, its beautiful streets lined with stunning colleges, historic buildings, and picturesque courtyards.

We then continue on our way home.

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then on to the four-star Redworth Hall Hotel for a four night stay.

Enjoy a visit to the fascinating Beamish Open Air Museum. In this living, working museum, set in 300 acres of Durham countryside, costumed folk bring to life the Town, Pit Village, Home Farm and Pockerley Old Hall.

Learn more about the stories of life as it was in the 18th and 19th century at this award-winning museum which has many North East tales to tell!

This morning we take a trip to Durham, in the 'Land of the Prince Bishops'. The cathedral and castle have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dominate the riverside. Explore the delightful cobbled streets the wonderful shops, or sit and relax in one of the many cafés.

Later, we return to the hotel where the remainder of the day will be at leisure for you to relax and perhaps make the most of the wonderful facilities at the hotel.

Today we visit the charming town of Barnard Castle. This historic market town takes its name from the castle around which it grew. Home to many antique shops, independent stores and delightful cafés, there is plenty to see and do here.

After some free time to explore, we make our way to the nearby Bowes Museum where a light lunch is served before our visit. The Bowes Museum is housed in a gorgeous French-style château and the superb collection includes the beautiful Silver Swan which majestically swoops down to collect silver fish - a marvel of engineering!

Return home.

Regional departure by coach, then we travel northwards. We will make a stop in historic Durham, offering you the opportunity to visit the city with its impressive cathedral and medieval streets. We will then check in to our hotel on the outskirts of Newcastle. Enjoy dinner tonight with your fellow Vera enthusiasts.

Today we are joined by our Vera Tour Guide at the hotel. The guide is knowledgeable about all things Vera; the series, books, locations and background info, so can answer any questions you have questions during the day.

Beginning in the city of Newcastle, the route follows up the coast past Blyth, The Woodhorn Museum, Amble/Warkworth, Alnmouth, Seahouses (Farne Islands), Bamburgh and Holy Island. We will have three stops for you to stretch their legs, use the facilities, take photographs and get refreshments with the longest stop being a lunch stop at Seahouses. Depending on the tide times the tour might be done in reverse order, taking the A1 straight to Holy Island and returning via the coast.

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we’ll depart and begin our journey home, making a stop at a place of interest en route if time and operational conditions allow.

Please note: Guests joining the tour directly at the hotel will not benefit from the additional stop on the homeward journey that is included for coach passengers.