Lakes and Dales – England’s North

Arriving into Manchester airport (or arriving in central Manchester by rail), collect your vehicle and make your way in to the city. Manchester itself is a lively northern city full of character. Explore the city's industrial and cotton-making heritage at the Museum of Urban Living, wander the redeveloped canal district and Salford Quays, explore the ultra-modern shopping Centre or visit the exhibitions of the Imperial War Museum. Soccer fans can enjoy a tour of Old Trafford, possibly the most famous soccer stadium in the world whilst followers of British television might want to visit the studios of the famous English soap opera which has been running continuously since 1960. Spend tonight in the city or make your way in to the nearby countryside.

Overnight: Overnight Manchester or Peak District

Journey details: 25 miles / 40 mins approx* (Manchester to Peak District)

Today head outside of the city and explore the outstanding nearby natural beauty of the Peak District, one of England’s revered National Parks. The Peaks are home to unique landscapes of rocky hills and mountains and offering breath-taking views and an ideal retreat for long walks and wildlife watching. Amidst the hills and dales, visit the magnificent stately home of Chatsworth House, the elegant family home of the Cavendish family, passed down through 16 generations – you may recognize the manor as it has appeared in many BBC television productions including featuring as Pemberley in Pride and Prejudice. Later return to your accommodation in Manchester or in the Peaks.

Overnight: Overnight Manchester or Peak District.

Meals: Breakfast included

From Manchester travel north into the Yorkshire Dales and make your way to the grandiose city of York; York is home to a wealth of historic and cultural sites to explore, from the cobbles of the famous Shambles, Britain’s oldest shopping street, to the Viking Jorvik Center. Stroll along the medieval city walls, gates and towers including Mickelgate Bar and Cliffords Tower before visiting the opulent Georgian Era Fairfax House or the National Railway Museum current home of the Flying Scotsman. The highlight of course will be exploring the gothic masterpiece at the iconic York Minster which dominates the city and marks York as the ecclesiastical capital of the North of England.

Overnight: York

Meals: Breakfast included

Journey details: 90 miles / 2hrs 10mins (approx.)*

With York as our base head out to explore some of the surrounding countryside where you find yourself in an area of outstanding natural beauty; pass through the Yorkshire Dales countryside of windswept fells and dry-stone walls, setting James Herriot’s veterinary tales. You may choose to visit the Victorian spa town of Harrogate, the traditional market town of Skipton or the Bronte Parsonage in the village of Haworth where the famous literary sisters created their works. Historic sites of note include the World Heritage Site at Fountains Abbey and Water Gardens and the Impressive Castle Howard stately home.

Overnight: York

Meals: Breakfast included

Today pass in to the wild landscapes of the Yorkshire Moors inspiration for Bronte’s Wuthering Heights; you may choose to stop in the tiny village of Goathland whose train station you may recognize as Hogsmeade from the Harry Potter movies, before making your way to the windswept north east coast. Visit the beautiful cobbled harbour town of Whitby and the stunning hilltop Whitby Abbey, used as inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Later continue north to the University City of Durham to explore the stunning World Heritage Site at the Norman era Durham Cathedral and Castle, some of Northern England’s most impressive architecture.

Overnight: Durham area.

Meals: Breakfast included

Journey details: 120 miles / 3hrs approx* (When travelling via Whitby)

This morning, make the short journey north to visit Hadrian's Wall, once the northern frontier of the Roman Empire and marking the old border between England and Scotland; travelling West along the line of the wall you can stop at one or more of the preserved stretches still intact today and visit the various forts including Chester's Roman Fort, Housesteads Fort or Birdoswald Fort. At the Western end of the wally you may choose to stop at the town of Carlisle and Carlisle Castle before descending into the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Lake District where you can stop at Wordsworth's House in Cockermouth village or visit his final resting place at the church in Grasmere village. Make your way to your overnight stay in the heart of the Lake District.

Overnight: Windermere, Lake District.

Meals: Breakfast included

Journey details: 125 miles / 2hrs 30mins approx* (when travelling via Carlisle)

Dedicate today to exploring the Lake District exploring the magnificent lakes, their surrounding fells, woodlands, stone walls and quaint lake-land villages such as Windermere and Grasmere. Take a steam-boat ride on Lake Windermere or climb Scafell Pike, the highest point in England to enjoying breath-taking views. This region is a haven for walkers, hikers, budding artists and photographers or those simply looking for a tranquil boat trips or lazy drives soaking up the scenery. Possible cultural visits include Wordsworth’s Rydal Mount and Dove Cottage along with Beatrix Potter’s Hilltop Farm. The region boasts a wealth of stunning historic houses including Hutton in the Forest, Lowther Castle and Gardens and the Levens Hall.

Overnight: Windermere, Lake District.

Meals: Breakfast included

Leaving the Lake District, pass south to visit the magnificent city of Liverpool which was designated as European City of Culture in 2008. Liverpool is home to two cathedrals, dozens of listed buildings and the UNESCO heritage site at the famous Albert Docks where you’ll find the renowned Liver Buildings and a Tate Art Gallery. Home of The Beatles, heritage sites of the fab four pervade the city from the Cavern Club and Penny Lane to Beatles Story Exhibition. By afternoon, continue to nearby Chester a beautiful historic city home to Roman City walls and gate towers, the stunning excavated Roman Amphitheatre, an impressive cathedral and the unique Tudor Facaded “Rows”.

Overnight: Liverpool or Chester

Meals: Breakfast included

Journey details: 125 miles / 2hrs 20mins approx*

This morning, enjoy a final breakfast in your hotel before checking out. Make your way back to Manchester to Airport to return your vehicle and check-in for your return flight. Alternatively, make your way in to the city and travel onwards by rail back to London or to your next destination.

Meals: Breakfast included