Monday 22nd: We travel north and check-in at the Sunderland Marriott Hotel.
Tuesday 23rd: Today we visit Washington Old Hall at the heart of historic Washington village, this picturesque stone manor house and its gardens provide a tranquil oasis, reflecting gentry life following the turbulence of the English civil war. It is a 17th century manor house associated with the family of George Washington, first president of the USA. Enjoy walking through the gardens of Washington and discover the dramatic 17th century parterre and the wilds of the nuttery. Our visit includes a introductory talk on arrival, a one and a half hour guided tour and a free flow visit of Washington Old Hall.
Wednesday 24th: Our visit today is to Belsay Hall, castle and gardens. Take in 30 acres of picturesque landscaping. Enter the magical and romantic Quarry Garden with ravines, pinnacles and sheer rock faces. Belsay Hall itself is a classical greek revival villa, centred around the amazing central two-storey ‘Pillar Hall’. Our visit includes a 5 to 10 minute introductory talk, a 2 hour guided tour with the head gardener (subject to availability) and free flow entry around the estate.
Thursday 25th: This morning we take a river shack cruise. Juno is an attractive opensided wooden boat built in Ireland in 1980 and provides an authentic and engaging experience of the river and its wildlife, taking in local bird life, river wildlife and farming. We return via Durham to our hotel.
Friday 26th: We leave our hotel after breakfast and return home making a stop in Harrogate.