Borders Country,Vera's Northumbria,Barnard Castle & Teesdale

Based on the popular novels, the TV series Vera debuted more than a decade ago and introduced audiences to the sweeping scenery of the North East which provides the dynamic backdrop of the show. On this wonderful five-day break, we journey to some of the programme’s most recognisable filming locations along the Tyneside Coast. Discover the dramatic beauty and fascinating heritage of the region with excursions to historic Barnard Castle, the beautiful Durham Dales and the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Borders - this is a tour worth investigating!What's Included?
- Return coach travel- 4 nights at the Leonardo Hotel, Newcastle Quayside (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast- Blue Badge guided tour of Vera's Northumbria (Amble, Newbiggin, Blyth, Seaton Sluice, St Mary's Island, Tynemouth, Whitley Bay & Newcastle-upon-Tyne)- Blue Badge guided Borders Country tour (Ford, Etal, Coldstream, Kelso & Jedburgh)- Blue Badge guided tour of the Durham Dales, North Pennines, Barnard Castle & TeesdaleRiver View Room Upgrades Available

Itinerary
Included ExcursionsVera's Northumbria (full day)We travel to the Tyneside coast to step into the dramatic world of the crime drama Vera. Our guided tour takes us to the various filming locations scattered along the coast, such as Amble, Blyth, Seaton Sluice and Whitley Bay among others. All of these atmospheric destinations were chosen for their distinctive seascapes and waterfront towns which provide the perfect setting for the no-nonsense DCI Stanhope's many compelling investigations.\n\nWe cap off our tour with free time in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Ranked among the best cities to visit in the UK, Newcastle has been featured extensively in Vera due to its unique and metropolitan appearance. We enjoy a city tour, where we take in these filming locations as well as many of its iconic landmarks and historical sites showcasing its industrial heritage.Borders Country Tour (full day)The romantic landscapes at the end of England await as we embark on a guided tour to enjoy tales of the turbulent history of the Scottish Borders. We travel up through the Northumberland National Park close to the Cheviot Hills, past picturesque Ford and Etal, before crossing the River Tweed at Coldstream into Scotland. Here, we stop at the picturesque market town of Kelso where there's free time to have a spot of lunch and the chance to explore the fine ruins of its historic abbey, whose former gardens are now known as The Square, the largest market square in Scotland.\n\nOur journey continues through the beautiful borderlands where we have another break in the colourful town of Jedburgh, before re-crossing the border back into England and travel across the Northumberland Moors as we return to our hotel.Durham Dales Scenic Tour & Barnard Castle (full day)We begin our day with a scenic tour through the rugged landscapes of the Durham Dales and North Pennines, providing us with a dramatic view of the moorlands, valleys and waterfalls that have earned the region recognition as an Area of Outstanding Beauty.\n\nLater we travel to the charming market town of Barnard Castle, known locally as 'Barney'. Taking its name from the actual castle it grew around, the town is a popular sightseeing destination due to its incredible scenery and the wealth of history on display, the highlight of which is the castle itself, an intimidating 12th-century fortress which sits atop a high rock overlooking the town below (entry not included). Here we spend some free time at leisure where we can pick up lunch at one of the lovely restaurants and cafés, before continuing our journey through Teesdale and a visit to the stunning High Force, the highest waterfall in England.

Newcastle
A prestigious city with the best of both historical and modern attractions, Newcastle-upon-Tyne is one of the largest cities in the UK and is packed full of things to see and do for visitors on our coach breaks, from culture-ridden museums and cathedrals to spectacular shopping opportunities.
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Northumberland
If you've never been to Northumberland before you don't know what you're missing! England's most northern county is a charming corner of the country which you will immediately fall in love with.
A hidden gem, Northumberland boasts some of the most dramatic and diverse natural scenery in the UK comprising vast unspoilt beaches, imposing castles, cobbled market towns and stunning wildlife.
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The Leonardo Hotel, Newcastle QuaysideThe Leonardo Hotel, Newcastle Quayside (JG3 Rating) is conveniently located overlooking the Tyne and the Millennium Bridge. The hotel features spacious en-suite rooms with tea and coffee-making facilities as well as a relaxing restaurant and bar.Hotel RatingJG3 ratingHotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.