North East England Group Travel Guide 2012

Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this publication is accurate, the publishers cannot accept any responsibility in respect of any error or omission that may

have occurred.

The publishers gratefully acknowledge the use of photography supplied by North East England, Kevin Radcliffe, Alex Telfer, Chris Auld, Jason Friend, Graeme Peacock, Ian Martin, David Williams and

VisitBritain/Britain on View- Rod Edwards, James McCormick, Martin Brent, Pawel Libera, Chris Coe and the County Durham Tourism Partnership. A big thanks to all the other individuals, groups and

organisations who kindly contributed to the North East England Group Travel Guide.

NORTHUMBERLAND

DURHAM

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD

TEES VALLEY

Designed and produced by in2 Design & PublishingAll rights reserved © in2 Design & Publishing Limited 2012 Cover pictures:

Hadrian's Wall, Northumberland.

Front cover small pictures:

Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum, South Shields. Durham Cathedral.

Hartlepool's Maritime Experience.

Back cover small pictures:

Lindisfarne Priory. Bridges across the River Tyne. Durham Cathedral.


NORTH EAST ENGLAND

GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE 2012

about group travel

www.groupsnortheastengland.com

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2

WELCOME Go back in time, stand out from the crowd or experience it all.

North East England delivers every choice groups will ever want - and more!

Experience the warmth of a real North East England welcome.

What makes North East England the ideal destination for groups?Could it be our spectacular coast with its historic islands and golden beaches; our beautiful rural

countryside, our rivers and dales; our ancient history - with its Roman heritage, historic castles and country

houses; our wonder gardens; our special North East England culture?

We think it’s the combination of all our great assets!

‘Midsummer Music’ at Gibside, Gateshead.

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3NORTH EAST ENGLAND

Durham Cathedral, Durham.

Inside this guide you'll find visitor attractions, accommodation options and sources of further information to help

you make a successful group visit to one of England’s hottest group destinations.

We'll also show you our history and heritage and our cultural attractions and help you feel the warmth and friendliness of our welcome

- it just couldn’t be easier to discover the spectacular and very original North East England.


North East

England takes in

Northumberland,

NewcastleGateshead,

Sunderland, South

Shields and Tynemouth,

Durham and

Tees Valley.

Getting here by road is

easy via the

A1/A1 (M), A19, A66

and A68, there are fast

rail connections to the

rest of the country, two

international airports

and major ferry links.

Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience, Tees Valley.


Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland.

Welcome to North East England 2 - 11

Events 12

Getting here & getting around 13

Northumberland 14 - 21

Hadrian’s Wall Feature 22 - 27

NewcastleGateshead, Sunderland,

South Shields and Tynemouth 28 - 31

Durham and Tees Valley 32 - 38

Accommodation and Accessibility Ratings 18 - 19

Tour Guides and Travel Services 39 - 41

Tourist Information Centres 42

Detailed Map 43

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Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral, Durham

4

DEFENCE OF THE REALMOne of THE main highlights of any trip to the North East is the first view

of Bamburgh Castle sitting on top of its “rock”, proud and elegant

demanding respect from all around - enough to deter any prospective

raider from sea or land.

North East England was highly important during past centuries in terms of

the defence of the realm and this is why it was so heavily fortified - it was in

the front line; the marauding Scots to the North and west, Vikings to the east

- even the Romans had difficulty with the Barbarians from the North! Hadrian’s

Wall is proof enough of that. They stayed for over 400 years and as a result

there are Roman remains everywhere. At Chesters, Corbridge, Housesteads and

Vindolanda (don’t miss the “tablets”) groups can learn about how they lived

and worked, what they ate, how they worshipped and how they entertained

themselves - they were here for a long time and we tend to forget that!

Berwick’s spectacular Elizabethan walls were also built for defence from both

land and sea and these walls now provide for a fine walk. In fact, defence has

left Northumberland with a huge legacy - there are more castles and fortified

buildings in Northumberland than any other county in England - Alnwick,

Bamburgh, Chillingham, Dunstanburgh, Norham (right on the present border),

Lindisfarne and Warkworth. County Durham adds Auckland, Raby and Durham

Castles to this anything-but-exhaustive list. Some are still family homes and

others, such as Lumley Castle and Langley Castle, are now hotels.

THERE’S MORE TO EXPLORE IN NORTH EAST ENGLANDTo fi nd details of the 25 castles, 26 gardens and 144 hotels

visit: www.groupsnortheastengland.com

World Heritage, magnificent grand houses and castles, Hadrian’s Wall, living history, iconic attractions, ancient villages and market towns - all around.

HISTORY & HERITAGE

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5NORTH EAST ENGLAND

Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience, Tees Valley. Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland.

MONKS, PRIORIES AND CATHEDRALSNorth East England is an area of real significance in religious heritage

- from Holy Island to Hexham Abbey and from majestic cathedrals like

Durham to tiny vestiges of local worship like Escomb Saxon Church which,

if you look very closely, is built partly of stones from Roman sites - a Blue

Badge Guide would, no doubt, show exactly which stones!

LIFE IN DAYS PASTNot only can you visit many of these ancient historical buildings, country

houses and gardens, you can also find out how people lived in these

times. From the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre to Bede’s World you learn

of the monks, friars and bishops who brought Christianity to Britain. At

the famous Beamish Museum, “the living Museum of the North” group

members can learn about how local people lived and worked in the early

eighteen and nineteen hundreds. Woodhorn reflects on the social and

cultural lives of the mining communities who could not afford sumptuous

country houses or stately homes. At Killhope, The North of England Lead

Mining Museum offers a similar experience but this time relating to the

lead mining communities and their social and religious culture.

SEAFARING HERITAGEMaritime heritage is strong here especially in Tees Valley. Hartlepool’s

Maritime Experience replicates an 18th century seaport complete with

its own ship, HMS Trincomalee and is a must see attraction. Extremely

informative and entertaining and if you are lucky the period costumed

“sailors” might even fire a few flintlocks!


Let the history & heritage of North East England transport you back to the people, places and events of ancient times.

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Ormesby Hall, Tees Valley.

6

HISTORIC HOUSES & GARDENS

THE GRAND LIFE

Opportunities abound in North East England to sample the grand country

house lifestyle and experience the pleasures of great English gardens.

With its wide, open spaces and dramatic vistas, the area was an irresistible spot

for the titled and wealthy to build their stately homes and estates, ensuring that

our modern visitors get to enjoy some of Britain’s most creative and inspiring

gardens, from the 18th century avenues of Gibside to the contemporary design

of The Alnwick Garden.

Over the centuries, land ownership, farming and then industry brought

considerable riches to the north east and one way of proclaiming a successful

and wealthy life was to design and build your own spectacular home,

incorporating your own ideas and moulded on your own personality. North East

England has an abundance of such houses - from the Classical Greek-style

Belsay Hall to the elegant Palladian charms of Ormesby Hall, Crook Hall in

Durham City and the National Trust’s Cragside, the original home of engineering

giant, Lord Armstrong. All give an insight into the people who built them and,

with many open to visitors, they offer unique opportunities to explore exotic,

sometimes eccentric and always fascinating architectural wonders.

THERE’S MORE TO EXPLORE IN NORTH EAST ENGLANDTo fi nd details of the 26 gardens, 23 country houses and 144 hotels


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Visit our award winning and innovative gardens,

our great selection of country houses,

our beautiful heritage coastline and lots of

lovely quiet countryside,

in North East England it’s hard keeping

groups indoors.

7NORTH EAST ENGLAND

Breathe in the scent of our superb blend of coast and countryside gardens - be intoxicated by the beguiling mix.HISTORIC HOUSES & GARDENS

Crook Hall and Gardens, Durham. The Alnwick Garden, Northumberland.

GARDENERS’ PARADISE

The gardens that surround these character-packed residences are no

less intriguing, making North East England something of a gardeners’

paradise and the subject of many a special interest tour. The Alnwick

Garden emphasises the modern with an abundance of fascinating plants,

fantastic water features, a poison garden and one of the world’s largest

wooden treehouses! Meanwhile, almost in the centre of Durham City, Crook

Hall and Gardens combines a 13th century Grade 1 listed medieval hall

with six acres of gardens and delights including a scented walled garden,

a moat pool and maze. A quiet oasis in an urban setting, groups can enjoy

a cream tea in the courtyard in summer or in front of a roaring fire during

winter. And Howick Hall Gardens has been rated by the BBC Gardener’s

World Magazine as one of the top 5 coastal gardens in the country.

SPECIAL GARDENS FOR GROUP VISITS

Exclusively for groups in the heart of Northumberland lie the magnificent

gardens of the 17th century Whalton Manor House, with their beautifully

laid out Rose Gardens, Herbaceous Borders, Lawns, Peony Border,

Laburnum Grove and classical Italianate summerhouse in which to sit and

enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the surroundings.

And, in each of these gardens group members will learn something new,

something they can put to use in their own home!


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The Sage, Gateshead, Quayside, NewcastleGateshead.

8

World class cultural attractions, museums, historic theatres, art galleries and award winning

restaurants and hotels, wrapped up in iconic architecture and a warm welcome all round.

Plus all the biggest and best in shopping - from the largest in Europe to the delightful local

shopping of Durham City and Yarm - a great experience for all tastes.

CITY & RURAL CULTURE

ART AND CULTURE FOR ALL TO SEE

With such a vast array of museums, art galleries and theatres to choose

from you are never short of options when looking for a spot of art and

culture in North East England.

Some of the contemporary architecture is award winning - The BALTIC Centre

for Contemporary Art, The Sage Gateshead and Mima, Middlesbrough but there

are many examples of fine traditional architecture - from the classical Grey

Street in NewcastleGateshead, Victorian Darlington city centre, through to the

many castles, art galleries, museums and other public buildings throughout

the area.

FRENCH CHATEAU STYLE ROMANCE

One can add to that list of impressive buildings the purpose-built 19th century

French-chateau-style The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle in Teesdale where

there are three elements to reflect on; its architecture, the romance that lay

behind its development and the Museum’s content. The recent multi-million

pound conservation and redevelopment project is money well spent and this is

a must see attraction - but be prepared for a long stay as it has an outstanding

collection of art, porcelain and ceramics together with personal belongings of

the founders John and Josephine Bowes.

URbAN VARIETYThe Great North Museum: Hancock in Newcastle is where four museums are

THERE’S MORE TO EXPLORE IN NORTH EAST ENGLANDTo fi nd details of the 100’s of retail outlets, restaurants and 144

hotels-visit: www.groupsnortheastengland.com

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9NORTH EAST ENGLAND

Sit down after a great days shopping or gallery visiting, find a quayside café enjoy a lovely cup of tea and watch the world go by.

The Bowes Museum, Durham. Howick Hall, Northumberland.

incorporated into one resulting in the huge diversity of exhibitions on

offer - there is always something special happening. Likewise, The Sage

Gateshead an international music venue with a crammed programme

satisfying different musical tastes and the Telewest Arena for more

modern musical events. Mima, Middlesbrough’s gallery of modern and

contemporary art has an expanding programme of exhibitions and events

and Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens and the Sunderland Empire

offer modern/classical art and the performing arts respectively and in

excellent surroundings - there is something “special” about the Empire,

very atmospheric! And, of course, there is the award winning Beamish

which never seems to stand still - always planning something new and

always worth a second or third visit. You can learn so much about local

culture here and how it was formed.

CUISINE CULTURE - ALIVE AND WELL!There is also a culture of cuisine and food which in between visits to art

galleries, museums and architecture is more of a necessity than an option

- but there are myriad options to choose from. This is a region where

food production is part of the local culture - from fish (fresh and smoked

- Craster Kippers), shellfish, meats, dairy products, ice cream, honey,

vegetables, ales and Lindisfarne Mead, there is no shortage of options.

Neither is there a shortage of restaurants. Many of the major attractions

specialise in morning and afternoon teas and coffees, high teas or even

straight from the boat to the plate. Eating places are so numerous best to

check out the website to make your selection.

For cultural activities, planning is highly important simply because there is

so much of it. If in doubt, ask - look at the websites or talk to a local North

East England Blue Badge Guide - they’re always there to help!


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Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland.

10

Coast and countryside with views that bring our proud heritage to life, historic towns and villages

with echoes of past glories with eyes set on the future and a warm welcome where ever you visit

- surely the true worth of a visit to North East England.

COAST & COUNTRYSIDE

ENGLAND MOST TRANQUIL COUNTYWith an stunning view around every corner, it is not surprising that much

of the scenery in North East England is award winning, including the Areas

of Outstanding Natural Beauty of Northumberland’s Coastline and National

Park and the two Heritage Coasts at Durham and Saltburn.

This is a place to relax and be at peace with the world - no wonder Northumberland

is known as England’s most tranquil county. You can lose yourself in the splendour

of the rolling hills, soaring cliffs, green dales, lush forests, glistening, sandy

beaches and shining seas all to be found in this glorious land.

THE MYSTIC ISLESA trip across the causeway to the mystic Holy Island of Lindisfarne brings you to one

the most peaceful places in the country with wonderful wildlife and spectacular

views. The prospect of staying on this majestic island when the tide is in just adds

to the intrigue. But don’t worry there will be another slack tide…sometime soon.

Anyway, it gives you time to take a walk or catch a glimpse of the castle and priory

ruins by moonlight! And even, perhaps, in the distance, the Farne Islands.

From the seaside village of Seahouses across the water you can take a wildlife

cruise round these islands and maybe get some photos of the puffins nestling

in the cliff fronts and the seals basking in the sun. But wherever you go on this

coast, Bamburgh Castle stands proud surrounded by golden sands protecting

the numerous villages that used to thrive on the bounty of the sea - villages like

Craster, renowned for its kippers.

THERE’S MORE TO EXPLORE IN NORTH EAST ENGLANDTo fi nd details of the 101 museums, 20 theatres and 144 hotels


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11NORTH EAST ENGLAND

Stand on the beach at Bamburgh and savour the sights and sounds of a unique and dynamic living seascape and the dramatic castle backdrop.

River Wear cruise, Durham.

LAKESIDE LIVING

And then, perhaps a trip to the Northumberland National Park to discover

the delights of Kielder Water and Forest Park. Its vast, wide-open spaces and

breathtaking scenery offers the perfect opportunity to let your mind wander

and to relax and renew the spirits within - a perfect spot for a lazy afternoon

on the lakeshore.

A COAST & COUNTRYSIDE FOR ALL SEASONS

You can let the wind flow through your hair amid the stunning clifftop scenery

of Durham’s Heritage Coastal Footpath and the Red Kite Trail (11 miles of it)

in the Derwent Valley or enjoy the heather entwined moorlands of the Durham

Dales - hear those grouse? In the North Pennines groups can visit High Force

waterfall, the largest single drop of water in England.

No better way to appreciate the countryside than by boat and cruises along

the Rivers Tyne, Wear (Durham) and Tees (to Yarm) help you to enjoy the

scenery from another perspective - in complete comfort!

The North East of England is a superb blend of coast and countryside

encompassing supreme beauty with peaceful tranquillity. In our modern fast

moving world isn’t an experience like this essential?


Kielder, Northumberland.

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NORTHUMBERLAND

DURHAM

TEES VALLEY

Berwick upon Tweed

Holy Island

Farne Islands

BamburghSeahouses

Beadnell

Dunstanburgh

Craster

AlnmouthWarkworthAmble

Cornhill on Tweed

Wooler

Alnwick

Rothbury

Morpeth

CHEVIOT HILLS

KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK Otterburn

PontelandHadrian's Wall

Hexham Corbridge

HaltwhistleAllendale Blanchland

DURHAM DALES

Barnard CastleYarm

Redcar Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Guisborough

Stanhope

Bishop Auckland

Hartlepool

Stockton-on-Tees

Middlesbrough

Darlington Durham Tees Valley Airport

Seaham

ConsettChester- le-Street

Durham

DURHAM HERITAGE COAST

NORTHUMBERLAND COAST AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

Blyth

Whitley Bay

Port of Tyne Ferry TerminalSouth Shields

Sunderland

NORTH PENNINES AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

NORTHUMBERLAND NATIONAL PARK

Newcastle Gateshead

South Shields

Ashington

Newcastle International Airport

√

√

Tynemouth

12

EVENTS & FESTIVALS

NORTHUMBERLAND

45th Morpeth Northumbrian Gathering April 13 - 15, 2012.

Festival of Northumberland’s

unique folk music, dance,

crafts, heritage and traditional

culture. Three days of events

around Morpeth - many free

- featuring streets shows,

family events, exhibitions and

interesting walks.

Telephone: 01670 513 308.www.northumbria.org.uk

SUNDERLAND

Sunderland International Airshow July 21 - 22, 2012.

Award winning and largest FREE airshow in Europe. The coastline at Seaburn and Roker in Sunderland will be filled with the sights and sounds of high-speed jets, display teams, precision flying and choice activities on the ground, there’s something for

all groups.

www.sunderlandevents.com

www.brassfestival.co.uk/

TEES VALLEY

Stockton International Riverside Festival August 2 - 5, 2012.SIRF, one of the country’s finest street theatre Festivals. The centre of Stockton will be transformed into an arena for outstanding outdoor shows, from large scale spectacular events to intimate experiences. Enjoy street theatre, circus, dance, music and pyrotechnics at its best, all delivered by world class artists and performers.

www.sirf.co.uk

Gisborough Priory, Tees Valley, open air event.

OLYMPIC YEAR 2012 - NORTH EAST ENGLAND…THE OLYMPIC GAMES ARE COMING TO NEWCASTLE! St James’ Park, the 52,000 seater stadium is to be one of the venues for Football in the 2012 Olympic Games (27 July-12 Aug 2012).

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON AROUND NORTH EAST ENGLANDWith a great choice for all tastes and interests, there is so much to do in North East England in 2012. This season looks like being a busy year,

with a fantastic range of world-class festivals and events happening that your groups may want to consider visiting.

DURHAMDurham International Festival 2012 Juky 6 - 22, 2012.BRASS - a county-wide celebration of a musical culture: the result of collaborations and commissions, constantly pushing the boundaries of brass music.Our ongoing partnership with Durham Music Service is enabling young musicians to work and perform alongside some of the most inspiring bands and artists in the world.Don’t miss this spectacular festival!

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NORTHUMBERLAND

DURHAM

TEES VALLEY

Berwick upon Tweed

Holy Island

Farne Islands

BamburghSeahouses

Beadnell

Dunstanburgh

Craster

AlnmouthWarkworthAmble

Cornhill on Tweed

Wooler

Alnwick

Rothbury

Morpeth

CHEVIOT HILLS



Hexham Corbridge

HaltwhistleAllendale Blanchland

DURHAM DALES

Barnard CastleYarm

Redcar Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Guisborough

Stanhope

Bishop Auckland

Hartlepool

Stockton-on-Tees

Middlesbrough

Darlington Durham Tees Valley Airport

Seaham

ConsettChester- le-Street

Durham


NORTHUMBERLAND COAST AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

Blyth

Whitley Bay

Port of Tyne Ferry TerminalSouth Shields

Sunderland


NORTHUMBERLAND NATIONAL PARK

Newcastle Gateshead

South Shields

Ashington


√

√

Tynemouth


By Road - North East England has excellent motorway links and once you’re here our uncongested roads make the journey a pleasure. The A1/A1M and A19 provide access from the south and north, whilst the A69 and A66 connect with the west and the M6.Quay Link- electric buses offer a high frequency, accessible and easy to use service and offer the best way to get around central NewcastleGateshead. Routes connect the attractions and sights of Newcastle Quayside and Gateshead Quays, for more information contact: Traveline 0870 608 2608. There are also fast rail connections to the rest of the country, two international airports and major ferry links.

Easy to get here, easy to get around!

For tide times to cross the causeway to Holy Island visit: www.northumberlandlife.org/holy-island

NORTHUMBERLANDNEWCASTLEGATESHEAD, SUNDERLAND, TYNEMOUTH AND SOUTH SHIELDSDURHAMTEES VALLEY

NORTH EAST ENGLAND


Alnmouth, Northumberland.

CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

Drivetime to/fromNewcastle approx

Birmingham 3½ hours

Carlisle 1 hour

Edinburgh 2½ hours

Glasgow 3½ hours

Leeds 1¾ hours

Liverpool 3½ hours

London 4½ hours

Manchester 3 hours

York 2 hours

Getting to NORTH EAST ENGLAND

is so simple!

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14

Historic Castles, Hadrian’s Wall-

the Northern Roman frontier, heritage coastline

and restful countryside. Country houses and villages filled with

welcoming Northumberland character at every turn.

Officially the most tranquil county in England! It certainly lives

up to its billing. Added benefits include superb contrasts of

coast, countryside, market towns and villages, a plethora of

ancient castles, exquisite gardens and beautiful scenery.

Hard to imagine that such a beautiful and diverse county could have played

such an important role in the defence of the realm - not just for England but

before then as this was the northernmost boundary of the Roman Empire

two thousand years ago.

No structure defines this role so clearly as Bamburgh Castle - this majestic

castle set on the coast leaning into the North Sea in the middle of vast

swathes of sandy beach epitomises the sovereignty of the realm, defending

from eastern interlopers over the sea and from northern raiders over the

border. A must see attraction!

From the ramparts of the castle can be seen Holy Island which puts a

capital “T” on the word tranquillity. Crossing the causeway is like following

a path into a secret world of both religious and natural beauty. After a

visit to the Priory visitors can view an electronic version of the famous

and stunning Lindisfarne Gospels at the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre. Holy

Island is also the home of Lindisfarne Mead which can be duly sampled at

St Aidan’s Winery.

Following the coastline south more golden sands come into view - Marine

Conservation Award-winning beaches, former fishing villages snuggling

into the coast and more castles like Dunstanburgh and Warkworth run by

English Heritage.

The awesome Alnwick Castle is known as the Windsor of the North. It was

built as a medieval fortress in the 1300s and it is still the home of the Duke

and Duchess of Northumberland and their family today - but it is open to

the public and should not be missed! It is the second largest inhabited

Castle in England. Its neighbour offers an introduction to Northumberland’s

superb gardens - The Alnwick Garden, an evolving water garden, open all

year which really does appeal to all. Its Grand Cascade is the largest water

feature of its kind in the UK and a spot of lunch in the Pavilion is the perfect

way to view it.

NORTHUMBERLAND

The Alnwick Garden.

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ALNMOUTHThe Links

Price: Free

ALLENDALEMarket Place

Contact: Hexham TIC

Tel: 01434 652 220

Price: Free

ALNWICKGreenwell Car Park

Contact: Tourism Dept.

Tel: 0845 600 6400

Price: Free

BAMBURGHMain Car Park

Price: £6.00 daily permit

BERWICK UPON TWEEDNorth Road

Industrial Estate

Price: £6.00

BLANCHLANDSigned in Village

Contact: Hexham TIC

Tel: 01434 652 220

Price: Free

CORBRIDGEWatlin Street

Contact: Hexham TIC

Tel: 01434 652 220

(Roadside drop off and pick up only)

CRASTERCraster Car Park

Contact: Craster TIC

Tel: 01665 510 505

Price: £1.50

HALTWHISTLELanty’s LonnenContact: Haltwhistle TICTel: 01434 322 002(Roadside drop off and pick up only)

HEXHAMWentworth Car ParkContact: Hexham TICTel: 01434 652 220Price: Free(Drop off / pick up- Beaumont Street- beside

the Abbey)

HOLY ISLANDMain Car ParkPrice: £6.00 daily permit

MORPETHLayby near St George’s Hospital on northside of A197(Drop off at new bus station)

OTTERBURNOtterburn Mill Car ParkContact: Euan Pringle/ Nigel OwenTel: 01830 520 225Price: Free (daytime)

ROTHBURYCowhaugh Car Park. Tel: 0845 600 6400Price: £5.00 daily permit

SEAHOUSESSeafield Road Car ParkPrice: £6.00 daily permit(Ticket can be used in any Berwick district

coach park)

WOOLERBus Station Car ParkMarket Place- beside The Black BullPrice: 01668 281578


If you need help planning your itinerary in Northumberland or to see a selection of Northumberland group hotels visit:


Many of the county’s grand stately houses and castles boast exquisite

gardens like the National Trust’s Cragside, English Heritage’s Belsay Hall

in addition to Whalton Manor and Longframlington Gardens - a perfect

theme for group visits. But if the environment is your interest look no

further than Ford and Etal Estates “The Essence of North Northumberland”

encompassing the communities of Ford, Etal, Branxton, Milfield and

Crookham offering countryside attractions to enthral any group.

You cannot travel very far in Northumberland without coming across

evidence of Rome - after all, they were here for over 400 years! Hadrian’s

Wall Country is described in more detail later in the guide but it does form

an important part of this county’s heritage. It is best approached through

the “gateway towns” of either Hexham or Haltwhistle and viewed from the

Military Road.

With market towns, a national park and stunning coastline Northumberland

truly fulfils its tranquil status and offers myriad themes for group

travellers.

COACH PARKING IN NORTHUMBERLAND

NORTHUMBERLAND

Holy IslandFarne Islands

BamburghSeahousesBeadnellDunstanburghCrasterAlnmouth

WarkworthAmble

Cornhill on Tweed

Wooler

Alnwick

Rothbury

Morpeth

CHEVIOT HILLS



Hexham Corbridge

Haltwhistle AllendaleBlanchland

NORTHUMbERLAND COAST AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL bEAUTY

Blyth

NORTHUMbERLAND NATIONAL PARK

Ashington

berwick upon Tweed

Beauty and freedom have combined in North East England enabling you to get around easily. It’s simple to combine a great day visit to more than one destination within North East England.

It’s easy to combine two, three or even four destinations in a day. With miles of quiet country roads before you, travel from coast to countryside, city to sea is very easy, but wherever you are in Northumberland, the peace and variety you’ll find will transport you a million miles away!


Belsay Hall.Bamburgh Castle.Hadrian’s Wall.Lindisfarne Priory.Alnwick Castle.

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NORTHUMBERLAND

Alnwick Castle and The Alnwick GardenA magnificent historic castle and an exciting contemporary garden

Bringing together one of the country’s most memorable and popular gardens and a castle rich in history, Alnwick Castle and The Alnwick Garden make a great day out for groups visiting together. Tickets for both attractions and combined tickets are available. Call 01665 511184 to arrange a visit for 14 or more people, and for the opportunity to book tours, talks and activities for your group.

• DISCOUNTED ADMISSION FOR GROUPS

• DISCOUNTED REFRESHMENT PACKAGES

• EXCLUSIVE EXHIBITIONS

• MEET AND GREET SERVICE

• FREE ADMISSION AND DINING VOUCHER FOR DRIVER

• EASY DROP-OFF, PARKING AND PICK-UP

• FOREIGN LANGUAGE GUIDES

• DEDICATED GROUP LEADER HELPLINE

www.alnwickcastle.com www.alnwickgarden.com Tel: 01665 511184

AlnwickCastleW H E R E H I S T O R Y L I V E S

NEWTOURS

FOR2012

Escape to the pastImagine what life would have been like in days gone by with English Heritage.Glorious getaways…Nestled in 30 acres of picturesque landscape, Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens has something to captivate everyone. From ornate architecture to stunning gardens, it has enough to encompass a full day trip including a refreshing cuppa in the Victorian tearooms.

Coastal retreats…Relax and indulge in the tranquillity of Lindisfarne Priory,cut off from the world on beautiful Holy Island. Spoil yourself with spectacular views, stroll around the atmospheric ruins or hear all about the enthralling story of the monks who lived there in the fascinating museum.

Another world away…Hadrian’s Wall stands as a reminder of past glories of one of the world’s greatest civilisations. Explore four English Heritage properties dotted along this internationally celebrated World Heritage Site. It’s a ready made group itinerary just waiting to be explored!

Perfect for groups

• 15% off entry for groups of 11 or more• Meet and greet service and special guided tours at

selected sitesFor more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/traveltradeor email [email protected]

16

PLACES TO VISIT

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DISCOVER THE FREEDOM, ADVENTURE AND TRANQUILLITY OF

Your Great Outdoors AT KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK.

www.nwl.co.uk/kielder

Your Great Outdoors AT KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK.

www.nwl.co.uk/kielder

Home to northern Europe’s largest man-made lake, England’s largest forest and the most tranquil spot, Kielder Water & Forest Park in Northumberland is an ideal destination for group travellers.

and gift shop.

and Boat Inn.

meet and greet and personalised itineraries/tours.

For the driver

01434 251 000

Holy Island of Lindisfarne

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18

NEVER HAS QUALITY MEANT SO MUCH

NORTHUMBERLAND PLACES TO VISIT

All the accommodation featured in this guide has been quality-assessed by eitherVisitEngland* or the AA, or has recently applied for a rating and is awaiting assessment.Please be aware that ratings may change throughout the year.

To confirm a rating please visit www.enjoyEngland.com or telephoneVisitEngland on 0207 578 1454 or email: [email protected]

For AA ratings, visit www.theAA.comor telephone: 01256 844455 or email: [email protected]

All the national assessing bodies (VisitEngland*, VisitScotland, Visit Wales and theAA) now assess hotels and guest accommodation (including B&Bs) to the samecriteria and award one to five stars. The star ratings reflect the overall quality ofthe experience.

When choosing your accommodation look for the Quality Rose, theofficial marque of the VisitEngland national tourist board rating scheme.

The VisitEngland professional assessors visit every year, carrying out a routineday visit or an overnight stay in the case of serviced accommodation. On theseoccasions, they book in as you would, as a normal guest and test all the facilitiesand services. A quality score is awarded for every aspect of the experienceincluding the comfort of the bed, the quality of the breakfast and dinner and,most importantly, the cleanliness. They also score the warmth of welcome.

Places that 'go the extra mile' to make your stay a special one will be awarded a high star rating and may achieve a Gold or Silver Award for Guest Accommodation and Hotels,or a Gold Award for Self-catering.

For self-catering accommodation, the layout and design of the accommodationand the range and quality of the kitchen equipment is assessed, as well as the qualityand comfort of the bedrooms and bathrooms and most importantly, the cleanliness.

Higher star-rated accommodation tends to have more spacious bedrooms andbathrooms, and in hotels a higher staff to guest ratio, so service should be veryattentive. At five star, you can really expect to be pampered in luxurious surroundings!

Breakfast AwardNew for 2010 – given to hotels and B&Bs with high scores for breakfast.

For serviced accommodation, there are two separate schemes– one for Hotels and one for Guest Accommodation.

Hotel Categories:Hotels have a minimum of six bedrooms, but more likely to have 20+ rooms.Small Hotels have a maximum of 20 bedrooms and likely to be more personally run.

Country House Hotels have ample grounds or gardens, in a rural or semirurallocation, with emphasis on peace and quiet.Town House Hotels are in a city/town centre location and are of high qualitywith a distinctive style. High ratio of staff to guests.Metro Hotels are found in city/town centres, offering full hotel services, butno dinner. Will be within easy walking distance of a range of places to eat.Budget Hotels are part of a chain of branded hotels offering clean andcomfortable en suite facilities, 24 hour reservations and a consistent level offacilities. They are not awarded a star rating.

Hotels have to provide certain additional facilities and services at the higher star levels. These include:

� Dinner served five nights a week.�� Dinner available every night of the week.�� All bedrooms en suite (i.e. no private bathrooms)

Room service availablePermanently staffed reception.

�� 24-hour room service50% of all en suites with bath and shower.

�� Some permanent luxury suitesEnhanced services such as concierge.

Of course, many lower star-rated hotels may offer some of the above, but just donot meet all of the expectations for the higher star ratings. Sometimes a hotel hasexceptional bedrooms and bathrooms and offers its guests a very special welcome,but cannot achieve a higher star rating because, for example, it does not offer dinnerevery evening (two star), room service (three star) or does not have the minimum50% of bathrooms with bath and shower (four star).

Guest Accommodation categories:Guest Accommodation is the category which encompasses anything from one-room bed and breakfasts to the larger places found in our coastal resorts, which may offer dinner and may be licensed.

Bed and Breakfasts generally accommodate no more than six people. It's likestaying as a special guest in someone's home.Farmhouses offer bed and breakfast and sometimes dinner, always on a farm.Guest Houses tend to have more than three rooms and may offer dinner totheir guests. Some may be licensed.Restaurants with Rooms are just that. The restaurant is the main businessand they will be licensed. They generally offer a small number of bedrooms withall the facilities you would expect and breakfast.Inns are pubs with rooms which serve food in the evenings, as well as breakfast.Sometimes access to guest accommodation may be restricted during the day, butyou will be advised on booking.Room Only may or may not offer breakfast. Accommodation may be annexedand is likely to be fully en suite. If breakfast is offered this may be in the form of a tray placed in the room in the fridge, a breakfast pack available for separate purchase or a continental self-service option.Guest accommodation tends to be personally run by the owners.

Guest accommodation owners have to provide certain additionalfacilities and services at the higher star levels. These include:�� Bathroom/shower rooms cannot be shared with the owners.

If bedroom not en suite, then wash basin in bedroom�� At least 50% of bedrooms en suite or private bathroom�� All bedrooms en suite or private bathroom

Sometimes a bed and breakfast or guest house has exceptional bedrooms andbathrooms and offers guests a very special welcome, but cannot achieve a higherstar rating because, for example, they do not have any en suite bedrooms, norcan they easily put wash basins in the bedrooms (three star). This is sometimesthe case with period properties. They might not have the minimum 50% ofbathrooms with bath and shower (four star).Of course, you will find accommodation with 100% en suite bedrooms at all the star ratings, so refer to the descriptions in this guide to help you make your choice.

For self-catering accommodation, the layout and design of theaccommodation and the range and quality of the kitchen equipment is assessed, as well as the quality and comfort of the bedrooms andbathrooms and most importantly, the cleanliness.CampusVisitEngland’s campus scheme covers the universities and collegesthat are able to accommodate visitors during the vacation periods on abed and breakfast basis. Generally the rooms are en suite and there willbe plenty of single rooms, so large groups will not present a problem.Campus accommodation is star-rated one to five, reflecting the quality ofthe accommodation or ‘approved’, which means that the accommodationand facilities meet minimum standards. HostelsHostels provide safe, budget-priced accommodation for young people,families and larger groups and are star-rated. Higher ratedaccommodation often provides en suite rooms.Holiday, touring, and camping parks and holiday villages:VisitEngland awards star ratings reflecting the overall quality of thepark from one to five stars – five stars being reserved for parks ofexceptional quality.

If you choose to stay in any of VisitEngland's quality-assessed accommodation,you can be confident that it has been checked out before you check in. For moreinformation on the VisitEngland Quality assessment schemes and the star ratings,go to www.enjoyEngland.com

*VisitEngland is the official tourism body for England. Its role is to work in partnershipwith government and industry creating a national tourism strategy, optimising marketinginvestment, and developing the visitor experience across England. Enjoy England is theconsumer-facing brand used in the domestic market. VisitEngland assesses more than23,000 accommodation businesses across nine different VisitEngland schemes. Theseassesssments are provided by Quality in Tourism on VisitEngland's behalf.

For VisitEngland ratings: VisitEngland1 Palace StreetLondonSW1E [email protected]

Never has quality meant so much

For AA ratings: The AA15th Floor, Fanum HouseBasing ViewBasingstoke RG21 [email protected]

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19NORTH EAST ENGLANDwww.groupsnortheastengland.com

Cragside - National Trust C3

Group Size: Min 15 Max 50 Group rate: adult £11.60 oap N/a Child £3.85 ages under 16

Travel Trade

Contact: Val MillerCragside, rothbury, Morpeth, Northumberland Ne65 7pXt: 01669 620333 e: [email protected] www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside

the revolutionary home of Lord armstrong, Victorian inventor and landscape genius, was a wonder of its age.the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity, Cragside is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fabulous forest.

Is Pre-Booking Required

Coach Parking On-Site

Coach Drop Off/Pick Up Point

Average Length of Visit (hrs)

Driver/Guide Concessions

Coach Parking Nearby

Group Coffee/Lunch Stops

Lift Toilets

Free inspection Visit

Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

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Summer 10am - 5pm Winter 11am - 4pm

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*NOTe: Challenging terrain and distances. Stout footwear is strongly recommended. Courtesy minibus between key features and facilities.

ACCESS RATINGS

Proprietors of accommodation taking part in the National Accessible Scheme have gone out of their way to ensure a comfortable stay for guests with special hearing, visual or mobility needs. These exceptional places are full of extra touches to make everyone’s visit trouble-free, from handrails, ramps and stepfree entrances (ideal for buggies too) to level-access showers and colour contrast in the bathrooms. Members of the staff may have attended a disability awareness course and will know what assistance will really be appreciated.

Appropriate National Accessible Scheme symbols are included in the guide entries (shown opposite). If you have additional needs or special requirements we strongly recommend that you make sure these can be met by your chosen establishment before you confirm your reservation. The index at the back of the guide gives a full list of hotels that have received a National Accessible rating.

The National Accessible Scheme forms part of the Tourism for All Campaign that is being promoted by VisitBritain and national/ regional tourism organisations. Additional help and guidance on finding suitable holiday accommodation for those with special needs can be obtained from:

TOURISM FOR ALLc/o Vitalise, Shap Road Industrial Estate, Kendal LA9 6NZ. Information helpline: 0845 124 9971. Reservations: 0845 124 9973 (lines open 9-5 Mon-Fri), Fax: (01539) 735567, Email: [email protected]

The criteria VisitBritain and national/regional tourism organisations have adopted do not necessarily conform to British Standards or to Building Regulations. They reflect what the organisations understand to be acceptable to meet the practical needs of guests with mobility or sensory impairments and encourage the industry to increase access to all.

MOBILITY SYMBOLSTypically suitable for a person with sufficient mobility to climb a flight of steps but who would benefit from fixtures and fittings to aid balance.

Typically suitable for a person with restricted walking ability and for those who may need to use a wheelchair some of the time and can negotiate a maximum of three steps.

Typically suitable for a person who depends on the use of a wheelchair and transfers unaided to and from the wheelchair in a seated position. This person may be an independent traveller.

Typically suitable for a person who depends on the use of a wheelchair and requires assistance from a carer, and maybe a hoist, when transferring to and from the wheelchair in a seated position.

Access Exceptional is awarded to establishments that meet the requirements of independent wheelchair users or assisted wheelchair users shown above and also fulfil more demanding requirements with reference to the British Standards BS8300:2001.

VISUAL IMPAIRMENT SYMBOLSTypically provides key additional services and facilities to meet the needs of visually impaired guests.

Typically provides a higher level of additional services and facilities to meet the needs of visually impaired guests.

HEARING IMPAIRMENT SYMBOLSTypically provides key additional services and facilities to meet the needs of guests with hearing impairment.

Typically provides a higher level of additional services and facilities to meet the needs of guests with hearing impairment.

NORTHUMBERLAND PLACES TO VISIT

Billy Shiel Boat Trips C2

Group Size: Min - Max 400 Group rate: adult *£12 oap *£10 Child *£8

Travel Trade

Contact: Billy Shiel4 Southfield avenue, Seahouses, Northumberland Ne68 7Ytt: 01665 720308e: [email protected]

Boat trips to the Farne islands and Holy island. Visiting the bird sanctuaries and seal colonies with full commentary en-route.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

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Meet and Greet

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OPeNING TIMeS

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Summer 9am - 5pm Winter by arrangement

*2011 prices, please call for 2012 prices.

The Alnwick Garden C3

Participating attractions are visited annually by trained, impartial assessors. The assessment is an unannounced visit which takes place at any time when the attraction is open to the public. The assessor will ‘experience’ all aspects of the ‘visitor experience’, from initial telephone enquiries to departure. They will sample all facilities and activities. This gives you the confidence that the attraction has been thoroughly checked before you plan your visit. Only those attractions, which have been assessed by VisitBritain and meet the standard, receive the quality marque. You will recognise them by this sign.

During your visit to North East England look out for the Welcome to Excellence sign-a commitment to achieve excellence in customer care. This signifies that the business aims to exceed visitor needs and expectations, and provides an environment where courtesy, helpfulness and a warm welcome are standard.

Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this publication is accurate, the Publishers cannot accept any responsibility in respect of any error or omission that may have occurred.

MAP REFERENCES

WHEN LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO VISIT, THE VISITOR ATTRACTION QUALITY ASSURANCE SERVICE CAN HELP.

A map reference shown beside the place name helps you locate the town or village on the map on the inside back cover.

QUALITY AND LOCATION AT A GLANCE

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20

NORTHUMBERLAND PLACES TO VISIT www.groupsnortheastengland.com

Mindrum Garden C2

Group Size: Min N/a Max N/a Group rate: adult **£5.00 oap £5.00 Child - ages -

Travel Trade

Contact: Ginny FairfaxMindrum House, Northumberland tD12 4QNt: 01890 850246 e: [email protected] www.mindrumgarden.co.uk

a hidden garden cascading down a hillside, paths windthrough borders planted until they overflow withold fashioned roses, perennials and self-seeded whitefoxgloves and other wild scented treasures, shady maturewoodland, clear streams, ponds and the river Bowmont.

*May - September, Wednesday 10am - 4pm or by appointment. Charity Days please see our web site.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

*Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

Meet and Greet

Languages Spoken

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OPeNING TIMeS

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

Please see details bottom left*

*Limited Wheelchair access

**Charity open Days £3.50

Whalton Manor Gardens C4

Group Size: Min 15 Max 50 Group rate: adult £6.00 oap £6.00 Child -

Travel Trade

Contact: Penny Nortonthe Manor House, Whalton, Morpeth, Northumberland Ne61 3utt: 01670 775 205 f: 01670 775293e: [email protected]

3 acres of magnificent walled gardens designed by Sir edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll. Beautiful herbaceous borders, rose Garden, Summer Houses, pergolas and walls festooned with clematis & roses. private garden only open for groups. Guided tours, lunches, homemade cream teas and coffee*.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

Meet and Greet

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Summer 10am-6pm by arrangement Winter By arrangement

*the premises are licensed to sell alcohol.

Woodhorn C4

Group Size: Min - Max 100 Group rate: adult Free oap Free Child Free ages -

Travel Trade

Contact: Julie GowlandNorthumberland Museum, archives,Qeii Country park, ashington, Northumberland Ne63 9YFt: 01670 528013 f: 01670 528083e: education&[email protected]“Wow!” is the reaction of visitors to Woodhorn. Stunning buildings and fascinating displays tell tales of life, loves, tears and tragedies of Northumberland. Home to the main art collection by the pitmen painters, plus exciting temporary exhibitions. also home to archival treasures.








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Disabled Toilets

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April-Oct* Wed-Sun, 10am-5pm Nov - Mar* Wed-Sun, 10am-4pm

*plus Bank Holidays*Mon & tues during School Holidays

Howick Hall Gardens & Arboretum C3

Group Size: Min - Max - Group rate: adult £5.40* oap £4.50* Child Free ages under 16

Travel Trade

Contact: Di SparkHowick Hall estate office, alnwick, Northumberland Ne66 3LBt: 01665 577285 f: 01665 577285e: [email protected] www.howickhallgardens.org.uk

Beautiful gardens, woodland walks, a prime Minister and a famous cup of tea - earl Grey of course since Howick Hall was his home. enjoy the splendid flowers and the amazing rare trees and shrubs from around the world. Light lunches or afternoon tea/coffee served in the stately earl Grey tea House from 12 - 5:30pm.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

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Summer Daily 12-6pm Winter Feb-Nov Wed - Sun 10:30-4pm

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*admission prices as at 2011.

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NORTHUMBERLAND PLACES TO VISIT www.groupsnortheastengland.comACCOMMODATION


“In a nutshell, absolutely outstanding.”

Wark, Hexham, Northumberland NE48 3LS. Tel: (01434) 230 209 Fax: (01434) 230 039 Email: [email protected]

www.battlesteads.com

• Northumberland’s greenest pub/hotel• Multi-award winning• 80-seater restaurant• Cosy bar with wood burning stove• 5 cask ales• 17 comfy ensuite bedrooms• Menu of delicious traditional • dishes with a modern twist• Several golf courses nearby• A variety of great • walks from the hotel

120x198 landscape walks/golf_Layout 1 19/08/2011 16:35 Page 1

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

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Lift (in some colleges)

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Longridge Towers B1

Group Size: Min 20 Max 42 Group rate: B+B £35 DB&B £45

Travel Trade

Contact: Sheena FlemingLongridge towers School, Berwick-upon-tweed,Northumberland tD15 2XQt: 01289 307584 f: 01289 302581e: [email protected]

Longridge towers is a victorian building set in 80 acres of beautiful grounds within easy reach of the country-side and coast, ideal accommodation with spacious rooms and excellent facilities including a common room, games room, tennis courts and lots more.

aCCoMMoDatioN twin rooms 17 Double rooms - BreaKDoWN (en-Suite Only) Single rooms 7 Single Sup/ment -

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Macdonald Linden Hall Golf & Country Club C3

Group Size: Min 10 Max 50 Group rate: B+B* **£60.00 DB&B* **£80.00

Travel Trade

aCCoMMoDatioN twin rooms 20 Double rooms 38 BreaKDoWN (en-Suite Only) Single rooms 0 Single Sup/ment **£30.00

Contact: Helen ButlerLonghorsley, Northumberland Ne65 8XFt: 01670 500 000 f: 01670 500 001e: [email protected]/lindenhallin the heart of Northumberland, the ideal base to explore the region, within easy reach of a range of attractions & activities. With the 2 aa rosette Dobson restaurant and the more informal Linden tree pub, Vital Spa and Leisure and 18 hole golf course, Linden Hall is the perfect location.

*pppN **2011 prices please call for 2012 prices

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22

Hadrian’s Wall

HADRIAN’S WALL

HE CAME, HE SAW, HE ALMOST CONQUERED!Julius Caesar and his Roman armies first “visited” Britain in 55 BC

- to be exact 2,067 years ago! And whilst he didn’t stay long on that

occasion, the Romans did eventually settle here for well over 400 years

leaving a lasting legacy on “British” life styles, culture and society.

However, they did not manage to conquer the whole of these islands and due

to civil opposition and a limit to the resources they could extract from Rome,

they decided on a frontier - a front line between the Solway Firth on the west

coast and the River Tyne estuary to the east. They built a wall, an extraordinary

wall, 73 miles long (with a further coastal defence of 25 miles down the west

coast), 46 miles of which was of stone and 27 miles of turf rampart which was

eventually rebuilt in stone. It included 200 towers, 100 fortlets and 20 forts - all

designed to keep out the northern barbarians but became a gateway between

two entirely different cultures. They named it after their Emperor at the time,

Hadrian, and as proof of the quality in design and build, much of it still exists

- this is Hadrian’s Wall Country.

As well as being a major tourism attraction, the wall is a World Heritage Site

offering a wide selection of superb group attractions. To the east, three major

attractions are run by Tyne & Wear Archives and Museums - Arbeia Roman Fort

& Museum in South Shields where you can learn of the lifestyles of the ordinary

Roman soldier, Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths and Museum in Wallsend - a

truly “must see” attraction with its spectacular reconstructions and computer-

HADRIAN’S WALL - A WORLD HERITAGE SITE Offering a wide selection of superb group attractions - east to west

400 years of lasting Roman heritage

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23

World Heritage Site, exciting archaeological

finds, impressive Roman remains,

re-enactments, forts and museums,

Roman history and awe inspiring locations.

NORTH EAST ENGLAND

Reading the Vindolanda Writing Tablets 2,000 years

drop away and you are transported to the world of

a ordinary soldier serving at the edge of the mighty Roman empire.

Chester’s Roman Fort re-enactment Roman Vindolanda

generated history tour, and exhibits within the Great North Museum in

Newcastle. Here, visitors can enjoy a large-scale interactive model of the

Wall and learn about the cult of Mithras.

Further west are three English Heritage attractions. Corbridge Roman

Town was initially one site of a series of important forts along the

Stanegate frontier which pre-dated Hadrian’s Wall. Then it developed into

a prosperous town, a tempting leave-centre for off-duty Wall garrisons.

Chesters Roman Fort lies on the Wall itself and is the best preserved

Roman cavalry fort in Britain. And Housesteads Roman Fort is the best

preserved fort on the Wall with spectacular views.

Voted by experts and the public alike as ‘Britain’s Top Treasure’, the

Vindolanda Writing Tablets unearthed at Vindolanda provide a unique

insight into the lives of “real Romans” in a foreign land. This classic fort

and civilian settlement is where visitors can see archaeologists at work

and is yet another “must see” attraction. Nearby, the Northumberland

National Park Centre gives an “overall” appraisal of the wall whilst the

Roman Army Museum offers real-life treasures and the “Edge of Empire”

3D film.

Into Cumbria, Birdoswald Roman Fort offers evidence of an original

turf constructed section of the wall and well-preserved fort defences.

In Carlisle, Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery, offers an insight into

frontier life in the new Roman Frontier Gallery and also regional heritage

and culture including Border Reivers. Further down the Roman Cumbrian

coastal defences, Senhouse Roman Museum has an excellent collection

of religious altars, and Ravenglass Roman Bath House offers some of the

tallest Roman structures surviving in northern Britain: the walls stand

almost 4 metres (13 feet) high.

Well deserved of its World Heritage Site acclamation, these attractions

offer a unique insight into Roman culture, lifestyle and beliefs and much of

it is within us today - 400 years does indeed leave a lasting legacy.


Writing Tablets 2,000 years

transported to the world of

at the edge of the mighty Roman empire

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The final frontier

Discover the dynamic story of the northern frontier of the Roman empire

When did you last experience something truly spectacular? Hadrian’s Wall Country is a landscape inspired by the past, offering wide open natural vistas where imaginations can soar and where you can discover and explore!Be stirred by almost 2000 years of history along the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site, a magnificent string of Roman sites, forts and museums stretching from Arbeia at South Shields in the east, to the Ravenglass Roman Bath House some 150 miles away on the West Cumbrian

coast. Linked by stunning landscape, the remains of Britain’s greatest ancient monument, ancient earthworks, Roman roads, castles, Abbeys, farms - explore Hadrian’s Wall Country all as a result of one inspirational emperor.

The Roman Frontier presents a road of discovery, through contrasting landscapes that typifies the diversity of Hadrian’s Wall Country. Take your pick from the major Roman Forts, sites and museums linking the cosmopolitan city of NewcastleGateshead to the historic city of Carlisle, via the remote but awe-inspiring landscape of the craggy geological feature that formed a natural frontier on which the Wall was built.

It’s not all Roman - the Roman sites are complemented by a variety of visitor experiences including walking and cycling along the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail and the Hadrian’s Cycleway, the North Pennine and Solway Coast

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, numerous Sites of Special Scientific Interest, railways, castles, a Jacobite priory, medieaval gaols, abbeys, rivers, woodlands, nature reserves…plenty of opportunity to build a short break or heritage inspired holiday.

Our Hadrian’s Wall Country AD122 Bus offers excellent value for money for FIT programmes, and with pre-paid tickets is an easy and sustainable way to get around and to explore the Roman forts, sites and museums throughout the World Heritage Site. If your group is interested in walking, Hadrian’s Wall is ‘Britain’s Greatest Walking Trail’ (BBC Countryfile 2011), and there are plenty of options to sample excellent local produce at group friendly lunch and meal stops. You can plan a memorable visit to Hadrian’s Wall Country, contact us to discuss itinerary options and help plan your time here.

42

43

44

P

P

P

P

P P

P

P

P

P P

P

P

42

41

40

CARLISLE

A69

M6A686

A66

Keswick

The Rheged Centre

LAKE DISTRICTNATIONAL PARK

Penrith

43

CARLISLE

NEWCASTLEUPON TYNE

HALTWHISTLE HEXHAM

BRAMPTON

DUMFRIES

GLASGOW, THE NORTH

LANGHOLM, A7 TOURISTROUTE TO EDINBURGH

A75 A74(M)A7

Gretna Green

Netherby

Longtown

A7 A6071

A74

A689

CatlowdyB6318

Bewcastle

BirdoswaldRoman Fort

Roman ArmyMuseum Northumberland

National Park Centre,Once Brewed

GilslandB6318

A69

Greenhead

A689Roman Vindolanda

Allendale

B6295

A686

Corbridge Roman TownA68

Haydon Bridge

Bardon Mill

HousesteadsRoman Fort

ChestersRoman Fort

A6079

B6320

Wall

Chollerford

Bellingham

A68

B6318(Military Road)

A69

A68

A695

A696

Wylam

Prudhoe

Stocksfield

Corbridge

The Great North Museum

BlaydonMetroCentre

A1

A1

A1 (M)

A19

Whitley Bay

Tynemouth

SegedunumRoman Fort,

Baths & Museum

Arbeia Roman Fort& Museum

South Shields

Alston

M6

Southwaite

Wigton

Museum & Art Gallery

Aspatria

B5307

A596A595

B5300

Bowness-on-Solway

Maryport

SenhouseRoman Museum

Workington

Whitehaven

St Bees Egremont

Braystones

RavenglassRoman Bath House

Seascale

Ravenglass

MANCHESTER & LIVERPOOL,THE SOUTH

SOLWAY COAST AREA OFOUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

Silloth

KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK

NORTHUMBERLANDNATIONAL PARK


EDINBURGH,THE NORTH

GATESHEAD

SUNDERLAND

CHESTER-LE-STREET

DURHAM

YORK & LEEDS, THE SOUTH


SCOTLAND

Solway Firth

Wetheral

A69

River Eden

River South Tyne

Durham Tees Valley Airport20 miles

Irish Sea

North Sea

N

Heddon-on-the-Wall

Wark

Harrington

Cockermouth

P

P

STLELENEWCASWCASTASUPON TYON TYNEYNENE

M


9

hollerford

A68

B6318(Military Road)(Military Road)

A69

A68

A695

A696

WylamWy

Prudhoedhoe

Stocksfield

CorbridgeCorbr


BlaydonMetroCentre

A1

A1

A1 (M)

A19

Whitley BayWhitley Bay

Tynemouth

SegedunudunumRomoman Fort,

BathBaths & Museum


SouthShields

EDINBURGH,THE NORTH

GATESHEAD

SUNDERLAND

CHESTER-LE-STSTREET

DURRHAM



North Sea

N

Heddon-onHehe-Wall-th

442

43

44

P

P

242

41

040

CARLLISLE

A69

M6A686

A66

Keswick

The Rheged ThCentreC

g


Penrith

343

CARLISLE

DUMFRIES

GLASGOW, THE NORTH


A75 A74(M)A7

Gretna Green

Netherby

Longtown

A7 A6071

A74

A689

Catlowd

M6

SouthwaiteS

WigtonW


Aspatriaia

B5307

A596A595

B53005300

BownessBowness-on-Solway

MaryportM


WorkingtonWorkinWorkWo kinkink

Whitehaven

St BeesSt BBee Egremontnt

BraystonesBrayys


SeascaleSeasc

RRavenglassglassgla


OFSOLWAY COAST AREA OFBEAUTYOUTSTANDING NATURAL BEO

Sillothothi


SCOTLAND

Solway Firth

Wetheral

River

IrishSea

HarringtonHaa

Cockermmouth

P

Clockwise from top left: Hadrian’s Wall at Housesteads Crags; the so-called “Robin Hood Tree” at Sycamore Gap serves as a waypost along the Wall; sunrise over Castle Nick; Arbeia Roman Fort once housed a garrison; Housesteads is the most complete Roman Fort in the UK; ©The Roman Army Museum - Don’t miss the stunning 3D film - Edge of Empire, The Eagle’s Eye; walkers at Sewingshield Crags.

HADRIAN’S WALL IS TRULY SPECIALBecome a Friend of Hadrian’s Wall and help contribute to the globally important work being achieved, directly supporting

our ambition to secure, conserve and protect Hadrian’s Wall. As a Friend of Hadrian’s Wall you will receive a wide range of benefits in the knowledge that you are supporting the conservation and preservation of Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site, an

internationally important historic monument while helping inform and educate the millions of people who visit each year. Visit www.hadrians-wall.org/friends for further information.

Spreads 2012.indd 26 17/10/11 16:53:39

25

CONTACT USFor a full range of Hadrian’s Wall Country itineraries, attractions, and product information to help plan your visit go to www.hadrians-wall.org/groups or e-mail [email protected]

NEWCASTLEGATESHEADA tour of the easterly ‘frontier’ of Hadrian’s Wall Country will start in metropolitan NewcastleGateshead. Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum and Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths & Museum provide insight and accurate reconstructions of the Wall and significant buildings, including a full size Roman Bath House. The Great North Museum features a large-scale interactive reconstruction of Hadrian’s Wall - the perfect introduction and inspiration for visitors to explore the Wall beyond the boundaries of the city.www.hadrians-wall.org /NewcastleGateshead

THE SPECTACULAR FRONTIERCrossing England’s high northern ridge through the spectacular Northumberland

National Park, this stretch of Hadrian’s Wall Country contains some of the most magnificent imperial remains. Corbridge Roman Town was once a vital supply base for troops and the remains of a cavalry fort can be found at Chesters Roman Fort built to guard the nearby bridge over the River Tyne. Standing high on the exposed Whin Sill escarpment, Housesteads Roman Fort gives you a true sense of frontier. Commanding breathtaking views, it is one of the most complete examples of a Roman fort in Britain.www.hadrians-wall.org /romanfrontier

THE ROMANS AND THE ROMAN ARMYRoman Vindolanda displays Britain’s most significant archaeological finds, the Vindolanda Writing Tablets, the oldest known example

of handwriting in Britain and ongoing excavations and display exciting new finds. The Roman Army Museum provides visitors with an exceptional opportunity to soar above the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site. The ‘Edge of Empire - An Eagles Eye’ is first of its kind shot using 3D technology, and takes visitors on a truly inspiring and magical journey into Hadrian’s Wal and the Roman past.www.hadrians-wall.org /vindolanda

CUMBRIAN BORDERS AND HISTORIC CARLISLEBirdoswald Roman Fort stands high above a meander in the River Irthing in one of the most picturesque settings on Hadrian’s Wall. A Roman fort, turret and milecastle can all be seen on this excellent stretch of

the Wall. On reaching Carlisle, a convenient gateway to the Wall from the west and once the ancient administrative centre of Hadrian’s Wall, the new Roman Frontier Gallery at Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery links the Roman city with Carlisle Castle, Carlisle Cathedral in the ancient historic quarter of the city www.hadrians-wall.org/carlisle

CUMBRIAN COASTAL DEFENCESFrom Carlisle, follow the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail to the village of Bowness on Solway in the heart of the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for breathtaking views and endless nature and birdwatching opportunities. A network of Roman Forts once dominated the west cumbrian coast. The Senhouse Roman Museum offers the finest collection of Roman altar stones excavated at the site of the Roman fort, which will form the heart of a transformational visitor and archaeological excavation experience due to open in 2013.www.hadrians-wall.org/cumbria

Focus on

HADRIAN’S WALL COUNTRY

42

43

44

P

P

P

P

P P

P

P

P

P P

P

P

42

41

40

CARLISLE

A69

M6A686

A66

Keswick

The Rheged Centre


Penrith

43

CARLISLE

NEWCASTLEUPON TYNE

HALTWHISTLE HEXHAM

BRAMPTON

DUMFRIES

GLASGOW, THE NORTH


A75 A74(M)A7

Gretna Green

Netherby

Longtown

A7 A6071

A74

A689

CatlowdyB6318

Bewcastle


Roman ArmyMuseum Northumberland

National Park Centre,Once Brewed

GilslandB6318

A69

Greenhead

A689Roman Vindolanda

Allendale

B6295

A686


Haydon Bridge

Bardon Mill

HousesteadsRoman Fort

ChestersRoman Fort

A6079

B6320

Wall

Chollerford

Bellingham

A68

B6318(Military Road)

A69

A68

A695

A696

Wylam

Prudhoe

Stocksfield

Corbridge


BlaydonMetroCentre

A1

A1

A1 (M)

A19

Whitley Bay

Tynemouth

SegedunumRoman Fort,

Baths & Museum


South Shields

Alston

M6

Southwaite

Wigton


Aspatria

B5307

A596A595

B5300

Bowness-on-Solway

Maryport


Workington

Whitehaven

St Bees Egremont

Braystones


Seascale

Ravenglass


SOLWAY COAST AREA OFOUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

Silloth

KIELDER WATER & FOREST PARK

NORTHUMBERLANDNATIONAL PARK


EDINBURGH,THE NORTH

GATESHEAD

SUNDERLAND

CHESTER-LE-STREET

DURHAM



SCOTLAND

Solway Firth

Wetheral

A69

River Eden

River South Tyne


Irish Sea

North Sea

N

Heddon-on-the-Wall

Wark

Harrington

Cockermouth

P

P

STLELENEWCASWCASTASUPON TYON TYNEYNENE

M


9

hollerford

A68

B6318(Military Road)(Military Road)

A69

A68

A695

A696

WylamWy

Prudhoedhoe

Stocksfield

CorbridgeCorbr


BlaydonMetroCentre

A1

A1

A1 (M)

A19

Whitley BayWhitley Bay

Tynemouth

SegedunudunumRomoman Fort,

BathBaths & Museum


SouthShields

EDINBURGH,THE NORTH

GATESHEAD

SUNDERLAND

CHESTER-LE-STSTREET

DURRHAM



North Sea

N

Heddon-onHehe-Wall-th

442

43

44

P

P

242

41

040

CARLLISLE

A69

M6A686

A66

Keswick

The Rheged ThCentreC

g


Penrith

343

CARLISLE

DUMFRIES

GLASGOW, THE NORTH


A75 A74(M)A7

Gretna Green

Netherby

Longtown

A7 A6071

A74

A689

Catlowd

M6

SouthwaiteS

WigtonW


Aspatriaia

B5307

A596A595

B53005300

BownessBowness-on-Solway

MaryportM


WorkingtonWorkinWorkWo kinkink

Whitehaven

St BeesSt BBee Egremontnt

BraystonesBrayys


SeascaleSeasc

RRavenglassglassgla


OFSOLWAY COAST AREA OFBEAUTYOUTSTANDING NATURAL BEO

Sillothothi


SCOTLAND

Solway Firth

Wetheral

River

IrishSea

HarringtonHaa

Cockermmouth

P

Clockwise from top left: Hadrian’s Wall at Housesteads Crags; the so-called “Robin Hood Tree” at Sycamore Gap serves as a waypost along the Wall; sunrise over Castle Nick; Arbeia Roman Fort once housed a garrison; Housesteads is the most complete Roman Fort in the UK; ©The Roman Army Museum - Don’t miss the stunning 3D film - Edge of Empire, The Eagle’s Eye; walkers at Sewingshield Crags.

Spreads 2012.indd 27 17/10/11 16:53:52

27NORTH EAST ENGLANDwww.groupsnortheastengland.com26

HADRIAN’S WALLCOUNTRY

Roman Army Museum A5

Group Size: Min 15 Max N/a Group rate: adult £4.50 oap £3.83 Child £2.48 ages 5 - 18

Travel Trade

Contact: Group Bookings OfficeCarvoran, Greenhead, Northumberland Ca8 7JBt: 016977 47485 f: 01434 344060e: [email protected] www.vindolanda.com

this fully accessible, indoor museum is a superb introduction to Hadrian's Wall. Stunning displays bring the roman army to life - meet a recruitment officer, try to fire a Syrian archers bow or have a go at writing in cursive script. Don’t miss the stunning 3D film - edge of empire: the eagle’s eye!








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

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Gift Shop

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Meet and Greet

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GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

Summer 10am - 6pm Winter 10am - 5pm*

*Closed Nov to mid Feb

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27NORTH EAST ENGLANDwww.groupsnortheastengland.com26

C U M B R I AN O R T H U M B E R L A N D

B6318

B5307

A69

B6318

B6263

A69

M6

A74

A7

A7

A68

A695

A1

A1

A19

B6320

A68

B6318

A69

Hadrian’sWall

A692

B6306

CARLISLE

Bowness-on-Solway

Gretna

BRAMPTONHALTWHISTLE Bardon

Mill HaydonBridge HEXHAM

Stanley

NewburnJarrow

Tynemouth

SOUTHSHIELDS

Chollerford NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD

SolwayFirth

NorthSea

To Kielder Water& Forest Park

NorthumberlandNational Park

To Otterburn Mill

To Blanchland

ChestersRoman Fort

HousesteadsRoman FortThe Roman

Army Museum

Vindolanda


CorbridgeRoman Site

SegedunumRoman FortCawfields

Viewing Point

Wallsend Roman FortArbeia

Roman Vindolanda B5

Group Size: Min 15 Max N/a Group rate: adult £5.63 oap £4.58 Child £3.38 ages 5 -18

Travel Trade

Contact: Groups Bookings OfficeChesterholm Museum, Bardon Mill, Hexham, Northumberland Ne47 7JNt: 01434 344277 f: 01434 344060e: [email protected] this fascinating roman site with substantial remains and extensive museum full of stunning displays and rare finds including some of the amazing Vindolanda Writing tablets. excavations in progress every day, april - august, weather permitting - meet the archaeologists at work.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

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First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

Meet and Greet

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*partial wheelchair access

Free entry

www.twmuseums.org.uk/arbeia

Originally built to keep invaders out … today everyone is welcome!

GREATDAYS OUT Group Travel | Home & Abroad

Have a great day out! Are you a group travel organiserlooking for ideas and inspiration foryou next outing? Then look no further!

If you are planning a trip for yourschool, social group or organisation orif you are a travel trade professional,Great Days Out has over 200exhibitors to inspire you.

To find out more and register for your

EventCity by The Trafford Centre, Manchester

Saturday 25 February 2012 9.30 - 3.30pm

To find out more and register for yourFREE ticket visit greatdaysout.com

Spreads 2012.indd 29 17/10/11 16:54:11

The Angel of the North with wings outstretched - this outstanding

work of art welcomes you to Tyne and Wear and entices you

into the heart of NewcastleGateshead.

There is no better place for groups to start their exploration of this

exciting conurbation than Gateshead Quays with its ample parking, its

famous parade of bridges over the River Tyne and its iconic buildings. The

bedazzling chrome and glass of the futuristic looking The Sage Gateshead,

famed as an international home for music and musical discovery has

The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art with its monumental facade as

its neighbour and then there is the river itself and the bridges, like the

impressive Gateshead Millennium Bridge begging you to cross and explore

Newcastle city. The views from the tops of both of these inspired buildings

helps to put NewcastleGateshead into perspective. Group members,

therefore, have a number of options open to them - sometimes it is best to

leave them to it and rendezvous at an appropriate time and place

With its first class shopping and plethora of museums and art galleries,

cinemas/theatres, evening entertainment and quality cuisine, group

members can choose their own pleasure and take in at least some of what

this exciting city has to offer. Newcastle’s architecture alone is enough to

make some people fall in love with the city and its friendly people. Grainger

Town and the Ouseburn cultural quarters of Newcastle add to the charm

and the Great North Museum: Hancock (with its eleven galleries!!) and the

Discovery Museum (look out some of the old photographs of the quayside

of the 1920s and 30s and contrast with the scene today) add to the vibrant

culture and cosmopolitan atmosphere of modern day NewcastleGateshead.

Then there are the theatres, cinemas and shopping and some striking

architecture especially around the classical Grey Street.

Sunderland, like Newcastle, is a major north east city. Where Newcastle

has the River Tyne, Sunderland has the River Wear and the similarity does

not end there. This is another vibrant university city with its own artistic

and cultural attractions like the award-winning Sunderland Museum and

Winter Gardens with its works by LS Lowry and the National Glass Centre

with its workshops and displays of the glassmaker’s artwork (did you know

NewcastleGateshead Quayside.

28

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD, SUNDERLAND, SOUTH SHIELDS AND TYNEMOUTH

Blue flag beaches, well known artistic icons, stunning architecture, world class retail experiences,

award winning restaurants and cafés - and a warm North East England welcome,

all wrapped up in a rich cultural heritage.

Spreads 2012.indd 30 17/10/11 17:17:41

If you need help planning your itinerary in area or to see a selection of group hotels visit:


that Pyrex was once made in Sunderland). For evening entertainment,

nothing surpasses the opulent Victorian splendour of the Empire Theatre

where some of the best West End shows are staged.

Two thousand years ago, the Romans controlled this area with Hadrian’s

Wall ending at Wallsend in North Tyneside. The forts of Segedunum and

Arbeia are proof of their attachment to the area and, of course, their

legacy is everywhere - chronicled at the Great North Museum:Hancock

together with the attractions at the sites themselves.

For shopping expeditions, NewcastleGateshead offers Eldon Square and the

MetroCentre, still the largest indoor shopping centre in Europe as well as

discount shopping at the Royal Quays in North Tyneside.

Sunderland has The Bridges which features more than 100 shops, including

major stores such as Debenhams, H&M, Bank, Topshop/Topman, Pandora

and Next. And after a few hours of retail therapy there are always the

street cafes and one of the largest selection of international restaurants

anywhere in the UK.

Arbeia.The Bridges, Sunderland.Segedunum.Angel of the North.The National Glass Centre.


Beauty and freedom have combined in North East England enabling you to get around easily. It’s simple to combine a great day visit to more than one destination within North East England.

It’s easy to combine two, three or even four destinations in a day. The central location of NewcastleGateshead, Sunderland, South Shields and Tynemouth, means that many of North East England’s most visited attractions are less than an hour away!

GATESHEADMetrocentre

Tel: 0191 493 0219 Price: Free

Civic Centre, Regent Street

Tel: 0191 433 3143

(By appointment only)

Gateshead International Stadium

Tel: 0191 433 3143

(By appointment only)

Quays Coach Park

Tel: 0191 433 3143

Price: £10 per day

(Pre-booked £10, not pre-booked 70p

per hour).

NEWCASTLEOrd Street Car Park

Tel: 0191 261 4503

Price: £1 for 5 hours

(Drop-off/pickup next to Laing Art Gallery,

John Dobson Street and behind Centre for Life,

Times Square)

SOUTH SHIELDSHarbour Drive South

Contact: Neighbourhood Services Dept

Tel: 0191 424 7900

Price: Free

Pierhead Coach Park

Contact: Neighbourhood Services Dept

Tel: 0191 424 7900

Price: Free

Pier Parade Car Park Contact: Neighbourhood Services DeptTel: 0191 424 7900Price: Free (1 Bay available)

Marsden LeaContact: Neighbourhood Services DeptTel: 0191 424 7900Price: Free

Sea Road(2 drop off bays with 10 minutes waiting time)

SUNDERLANDOcean Park, Seaburn ComplexContact: Earl BenshawTel: 0191 553 1521

TYNEMOUTHGrand Parade (behind Blue Reef Aquarium)Price: 80p for 2 hours Open 9am- 8pm

WHITLEY BAYBriardene Car ParkPrice: £2.00 per day(Open 9am- 8pm, 800m from Town Centre)

Trinity Road Price: £2.00(maximum stay 2 hours)Open 9am- 8pm(Near St Mary’s Island 1km from

Town Centre)

COACH PARKING IN NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD, SUNDERLAND, SOUTH SHIELDS AND TYNEMOUTH

Whitley bay

South Shields

Sunderland

Newcastle Gateshead

South Shields


√

TynemouthHadrian's WallPort of Tyne Ferry Terminal


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PLACES TO VISITNEWCASTLEGATESHEAD, SUNDERLAND, SOUTH TYNESIDE AND NORTH TYNESIDE

30

WashingtonWetland Centre

greatgroups

T WPlease quote ‘North East England Group Travel Guide’ when enquiring or booking for a further 10% discount.

Registered charity in England & Wales no. 1030884 and Scotland no. SCO39410.

Pattinson, Washington, Tyne & Wear NE38 8LE

WASH Groups ad180dx130w otters.indd 1 19/09/2011 17:00

Gibside Estate - National Trust C5

Group Size: Min 15 Max 60 Group rate: adult £5.20 oap £5.20 Child £4.00 ages 5 - 16

Travel Trade

Contact: Gibside Estate Officethe National trust, Gibside, Nr rowlands Gill, tyne & Wear Ne16 6BG t: 01207 541820e: [email protected]/gibsidea beautiful Georgian ‘forest’ garden created by George Bowes, ancestor of the late Queen Mother. Now a haven for wildlife like red kites and red squirrels. explore tranquil woodland and riverside walks with stunning views over the Derwent Valley or discover Gibside's dramatic past on a tour of the famous palladian Chapel, the elegant orangery or the ruined Hall.








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GeNeral FaCIlITIeSSummer 10am - 6pm* Winter 10am - 4pm** *Last entry 4:30pm

**Last entry 3:30pm

For more information [email protected]

or call (0191) 643 7420

www.visitnorthtyneside.com

� 2,000 years of history to explore� Fabulous attractions and museums� A stunning award-winning coastline� Historic towns and villages with character and charm� PopularVictorian Christmas market

Spreads 2012.indd 32 17/10/11 16:54:59



Tanfield Railway D5

Group Size: Min 20 Max - Group rate: adult £6.00 oap £6.00 Child £6.00 ages 5 - 15

Travel Trade

Contact: Dave HolroydeGroup Correspondence: c/o 127 Lindisfarne road, Durham DH1 5Yutanfield railway, old Marley Hill, Gateshead, tyne & Wear Ne16 5ett: 0191 384 7888 f: 0191 387 4784e: [email protected] a six mile return steam train trip in Victorian carriages on the world's oldest railway. Visit the 1854 engine shed, cafe, shop and nearby 18th Century Causey arch. *Site open daily. trains every Sunday and Bank Holiday, plus Wednesday

and thursday during school summer holidays.








Lift Toilets


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Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

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Languages Spoken

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Summer & Winter Daily 11am - 4pm*

City centre location, only 3 minutes walk from the Metro, Train and Ferry bus Station.

From only £16.50 per bed/per nightFriendly, clean and safe. Meeting room and rehearsal facilities.

Albatross, Backpackers In!51 Grainger Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5JE. Tel: +44 (0191) 233 1330email: [email protected]

ALBATROSSBUDGET ACCOMMODATION

VOTE

D NO

1 HO

STEL

IN

ENGL

AND

ACCOMMODATION

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD, SUNDERLAND, SOUTH TYNESIDE AND NORTH TYNESIDE

River Escapes D5

Group Size: Min N/a Max 150 Group rate: adult * oap * Child * ages 2 - 12 years

Travel Trade

Contact: Becky Bagnallunit B2, Whitehouse Farm Centre, Stannington, Northumberland Ne61 6aWt: 01670 785777/666 f: 01670 785656e: [email protected] www.riverescapes.co.uk








Lift Toilets


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Summer & Winter - Cruises throughout the year

*please refer to our 2012

brochure, our website or

contact us for info on our 1, 2 & 3 hr

cruise types, dates and

prices.

escape the everyday and do something different! a river escapes cruise is perfect for any occasion, a sightseeing trip, an exclusive event or an upbeat party. a river escapes cruise offers an unrivalled way to experience Newcastle Gateshead’s famous riverside.

Spreads 2012.indd 33 17/10/11 16:55:17

32

Few counties have such variety as Durham. From the rugged

Pennine Hills passing through Weardale to the limestone cliffs

of its coastline, there is so much to delight and surprise even

the most discerning of groups.

At its heart lies the City of Durham domineered by the huge edifices of its

Cathedral and Castle sitting boldly on top of a hill, like an ancient citadel,

almost an island within the meanderings of the River Wear - that, too, can

be experienced from one of the river cruise boats.

And whilst in this great city of “vennels” and markets, take time to visit

the medieval Crook Hall, stand on the balcony of the old hall and imagine

a lively banquet taking place below, then explore its many themed gardens

and like a piece of art, interpret what you see.

In the county, “must see” attractions include the living experience of the

200 acres that make up Beamish Museum, Raby Castle with its 200 acre

deer park and traditional ornamental walled garden and the superb The

Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle - housed in a French-styled Chateau,

here is a story of romance, altruism, sorrow and benefaction resulting in

a monument to fine art and ceramics. Only people with genuine passion

like John Bowes and his French wife Josephine would have built such an

inspired building here in Teesdale in the 19th century. What to see? Well

you can start with Canalettos, Gainsborough El Grecos and Goyas - and

then there is the silver swan automaton. Another must see attraction for

groups.

Following the River Tees to the coast brings you to an area of explorers and

seamanship (Captain James Cook’s birthplace in Middlesbrough), Steam

trains (Head of Steam Museum in Darlington featuring George Stephenson’s

Locomotion No. 1) and naval tradition - especially in Hartlepool, home to

the Hartlepool Maritime Experience and The Heugh’s Gun Battery.

Hartlepool Maritime Experience is based on a reconstruction of a

Napoleonic seaport complete with period shops and costumed staff. It also

forms a “basin” within which lies the oldest warship afloat in the UK, HMS

Durham Cathedral from the River Wear.

DURHAM

Evocative locations, World Heritage sites, train trails, timeless

landscapes and coastline and the best living, working open

air museum you could wish for.

Spreads 2012.indd 34 17/10/11 17:28:32


Saltburn, Tees Valley.

Beauty and freedom have combined in North East England enabling you to get around easily. It’s simple to combine a great day visit to more than one destination, from grand houses and gardens to museums and art galleries.

It’s so easy to combine two, three or even four destinations in a day from some of Durham’s and Tees Valley’s most popular attractions to other North East England

destinations. Whether you choose to travel from coast to country or cathedral to

museum the history and living culture you’ll find will transport you back in time!

If you need help planning your itinerary in these areas or to see a selection of group hotels visit:



Trincomalee, built in Bombay in 1817 - mind your heads though! Another

“must see” for groups - ample parking, restaurant, shop and audio visual

complete with the sounds and smells of sea battle.

Coupling a visit to The Bowes Museum with one to mima, the Middlesborough

Institute of Modern Art - makes sense. From Old Masters to Modern Art with

buildings to match. Enjoy British Surrealism, modern fine art and jewellery

design and ceramics of the highest quality. There is always something new

at mima as it has a great events structure.

With attractions such as Durham Cathedral and Castle, Crook Hall, Raby

Castle, Bowes Museum, Hartlepool Maritime Experience, Beamish Museum

and mima, group travel itineraries to Durham and Tees Valley should be a

pleasure to construct!

mima, Tees Valley.Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience, Tees Valley.

Beamish Museum, Durham.Crook Hall and Gardens, Durham.The Bowes Museum. Durham.

Tall ships, soaring cliffs, golden sands, modern culture and

fantastic live seafaring heritage.

TEES VALLEY

Spreads 2012.indd 35 17/10/11 17:30:22

DURHAM PLACES TO VISIT

34

DARLINGTONChesnut Street Lorry ParkTel: 01325 388 740Price: £4.00 daily permit

GUISBOROUGHFountain Street Coach ParkContact: Car Park ManagerTel: 01642 774 774Price: £3.50 per day

HARTLEPOOLMaritime Experience Car Park, Tel: 01429 860 077Price: Free

SEATON CAREW Seaton Coach ParkThe Front, Seaton CarewTel: 01429 523 266Price: Free

MIDDLESBROUGHCannon Park Coach & Lorry ParkContact: Parking SolutionsTel: 01642 726 003Price: £2.50 (for 4 hours)

REDCARMajuba Car Park (Seafront)Drop off near TICContact: Car Park ManagerTel: 01642 774 774Price: £2.50 per day

STOCKTONDairy Site, Church RoadContact: Car Parking SectionTel: 01642 528 499 Price: Free

YARMPreston Hall Museum (Museum closed until June 2012 for renovation but parking still available)Contact: Museum ManagerTel: 01642 527 375Price: Free (Drop-off Point-

Sainsbury’s- High Street, Yarm)

COACH PARKING IN TEES VALLEY

Hartlepool’s Maritime Experience, Tees Valley.

BARNARD CASTLETown Centre Car Park (Galgate)Contact: Garry KeayTel: 01833 696 321Price: Free

BISHOP AUCKLANDBus Station & Market PlaceContact: Public Transport DeptTel: 0191 386 4411(Drop-off/pickup point only)

CONSETTBell Vue Leisure CentreTel: 01207 218 151Price: Free

DURHAM CITYThe Sands Coach ParkContact: Park AttendantTel: 0191 384 6633Price: Free

Drop Off/Pick Up PointFreeman’s Place, (just below the

Walkergate Development). Durham TIC

operate a free meet and greet service for

pre-booked coaches

Tel: 0191 301 8531

MIDDLETON IN TEESDALEOut of village parkingContact: Middleton in Teesdale TICTel: 01833 641 001Price: Free(Drop-off/pickup point in village)

PETERLEERear of Aldi StoreBede WayTel: 0191 587 2753(Please telephone in advance)

STANHOPEDurham Dales CentreContact: Stanhope TICTel: 01388 527 650Price: Free(When using centre facilities)

COACH PARKING IN DURHAM

Durham Tees Valley Airport

Seaham

DURHAM

DURHAM DALES

Barnard Castle

Stanhope

Bishop Auckland

Consett Chester- le-Street

Durham



√ Yarm

Redcar

Saltburn-by-the-Sea

Guisborough

Hartlepool

Stockton-on-Tees Middlesbrough

Darlington

Durham Tees Valley Airport√

TEES VALLEY

Durham.

Spreads 2012.indd 36 17/10/11 16:57:12

DURHAM PLACES TO VISIT


Crook Hall & Gardens C6

Group Size: Min 30 Max - Group rate: adult £6.00 oap £5.50 Child £5.00 ages 3 - 16

Travel Trade

Contact: Maggie BellCrook Hall, Sidegate, Durham City DH1 5Szt: 0191 384 8028 f: 0191 386 4521e: [email protected] Hall is a medieval manor house surrounded by romantic gardens. a short walk from Durham’s bustling centre yet the atmosphere is one of peace and tranquillity, with views of the cathedral from the walled gardens. Groups are able to enjoy a light lunch or homemade cream teas.

OPeNING TIMeS

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

*Groups welcome outside normal opening hours.

Summer & Winter will open any time for groups*








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

Meet and Greet

Guided Tours (on request)

2

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Beamish Museum C5

Group Size: Min 15 Max 1500 Group rate: adult *£11.00 oap *£10.00 Child *£6.00 ages 5 - 16 years

Travel Trade

Contact: The Group Bookings TeamBeamish, County Durham DH9 0rGt: 0191 370 4026 f: 0191 370 4001e: [email protected] www.beamish.org.uk








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

**Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Teashop/Café

Meet and Greet

Languages Spoken

Guided Tours

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5

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OPeNING TIMeS

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

Summer 10am - 5pm Winter 10am - 4pm - Closed Mon+ Fri

You're assured of a warm welcome at Beamish. enjoy a huge range of attractions at this unique open air museum and meet people who lived and worked in the past. a perfect day out for visitors of all ages and interests.

**partial Wheelchair access *2011 prices, please telephone for 2012 prices

Spreads 2012.indd 37 17/10/11 16:57:25

36

DURHAM PLACES TO VISIT www.groupsnortheastengland.com

Dalton Park Outlet Shopping Centre C6

Group Size: Min 15 Max N/a Group rate: adult Free oap Free Child Free

Travel Trade

Contact: At Your ServiceMurton, County Durham Sr7 9Hut: 0191 526 6500 f: 0191 526 0433e: [email protected]

the biggest outlet shopping centre in region. over 60 shops, free events, free coach park, added offers for your group and you with free tea or coffee and savings. Just off a19, 20 minutes south Newcastle Junction 62.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Teashop/Café

Meet and Greet

Languages Spoken

Guided Tours

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1.5

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✔*✔✔✔✔✔✔✔✔✔

OPeNING TIMeS - Summer & Winter

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

Mon-Wed & Fri 10-6, Thurs 10-8, Sat 9:30-6, Sun 10:30-5, B Hols 10-6

*the shopping mall is all on one level.

Durham Cathedral C6

Group Size: Min 10 Max 120 Group rate: adult £6.00 oap £4.80 Child £1.75 ages 0 - 16

Travel Trade

Contact: Samantha Forsterthe Chapter office, the College, Durham DL1 3eHt: 0191 374 4050 f: 0191 386 4267e: [email protected]

a uNeSCo World Heritage Site with breathtaking romanesque architecture, the Shrine of St Cuthbert and the tomb of the Venerable Bede. Guided tours of the Cathedral are available, along with specialist tours and talks including the Cathedral Library. refreshment packages available. pre-booking required.








Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

Meet and Greet

Languages Spoken

Guided Tours

OPeNING TIMeS

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS






Guide Concessions



Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access**

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

Meet and Greet

Languages Spoken

Guided Tours

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2

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GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

OPeNING TIMeS - Summer* Mon - Sat 9:30am-8pm Sun 1-8pm Winter Mon - Sat 9:30am-4pm Sun 1-5:30pm

*Sat 14 July to Mon 27 august inc. **Mostly

✔ ✔

High Force Waterfall B6

Travel Trade

Contact: Steve GillardForest-in-teesdale, County Durham DL12 0XHt: 01833 622209 f: 01833 640963e: [email protected]/high_force_waterfall

one of england’s largest waterfalls suddenly and spectacularly drops 70 feet into a plunge pool below. a woodland walk leads you to this breathtaking sight. impressive throughout the seasons.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

Meet and Greet

Languages Spoken

Guided Tours

✔

✔

1

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OPeNING TIMeS

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

Summer 10am - 5pm Winter weather permitting

Group Size: Min 12 Max 200 Group rate:

Groups are charged per vehicle:

£25.00 per coach - £12.50 per minibus

✔ ✔

Raby Castle C6

Group Size: Min 12 Max N/a Group rate: adult £7.50 oap £7.50 Child £4.00 ages 5-15

Travel Trade

Contact: Rachel Milner/Clare Owenraby park, Staindrop, Co. Durham DL2 3aHt: 01833 660202 f: 01833 660169e: [email protected] within a 250 acre deer park, with beautiful walled gardens, raby Castle was built by the mighty Nevills in the 14th Century. in the castle, rooms display fine furniture, artwork & elaborate architecture. includes the Barons' Hall, where it is reputed 700 knights gathered to plot the doomed rising of the North.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Tea Shop/Café

Meet and Greet

Languages Spoken

Guided Tours

✔

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3.5

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OPeNING TIMeS

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

*private Group and Group Vip tours also available

*Summer Easter - September Winter Closed

Spreads 2012.indd 38 17/10/11 16:57:35

The Bowes Museum


DURHAM PLACES TO VISIT www.groupsnortheastengland.com

ACCOMMODATION


DURHAM

The Bowes Museum C7

Group Size: Min 12 Max N/A Group rAte: Adult £7.00 oAp £7.00 Child Free Ages under 16

Travel Trade

Contact: Groups Marketing Officerthe Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, County Durham DL12 8Npt: 01833 690606 f: 01833 637163e: [email protected]

Following the Museum's transformation, new galleries allow for more of the outstanding collections of fine and decorative arts to be displayed, complemented by an acclaimed exhibition programme. A truly wonderful destination offering bespoke packages for your group.








Lift Toilets


Disabled Toilets

Wheelchair Access

First Aid

Restaurant

Gift Shop

Picnic Area

Teashop/Café

Meet and Greet

Languages Spoken

Guided Tours

✔

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3

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OPeNING TIMeS

GeNeral FaCIlITIeS

Summer & Winter Open Daily 10am - 5pm

THE KEY TO THE CITYDurham University has over 4000 bedrooms,including 1100 with en-suite facilities to offervisitors, available in our range of colleges.

There are no single supplements charged.

To make a booking for a particular date, arrangea visit or request further information on any ofour conference venues call the Sales Office on:0800 28 99 70 or e-mail: [email protected]

www.durham.ac.uk/event.durham

THE KEY TO THE CITYDurham University has over 4000 bedrooms,including 1100 with en-suite facilities to offervisitors, available in our range of colleges.

There are no single supplements charged.

To make a booking for a particular date, arrangea visit or request further information on any ofour conference venues call the Sales Office on:0800 28 99 70 or e-mail: [email protected]

www.durham.ac.uk/event.durham

Spreads 2012.indd 39 18/10/11 10:58:37

TEES VALLEY PLACES TO VISIT

38

Ladgate Lane, Acklam, Middlesbrough TS5 7YN Tel. 01642 594895

www.naturesworld.org.uk

Nature’s World is a novel and topical attraction offering a great day out and discountsfor groups.

The centre extends to 25 acres and offers a range of interesting trails including organic gardening trail; an Eco trail, a unique River Tees model trail and a Healthy Lifestyle trail.

Nature’s World also features a futuristic Eco Centre powered by geothermal, solar and wind power and a Hydroponicum with Mediterranean and Tropical zones.

Nature’s World is signposted from the A19 and offers quality refreshments and ample free coach parking on site.

M I D D L E S B R O U G H

ACCOMMODATIONDURHAM

GENERAL FACILITIES

Inspection Visit






Lift

Leisure Facilities

Languages Spoken


Bar

Coffee Shop

Restaurant

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Whitworth Hall Hotel C6

GROUP SIZE: Min 20 Max 55 GROUP RATE: B+B £48.00* DB&B £55.00*

TRAVEL TRADE

ACCOMMODATION Twin Rooms 10 Double Rooms 19 BREAKDOWN (En-Suite Only) Single Rooms - Single Sup/ment £10.00

* Prices from

Contact: Miranda Oliver-BrownWhitworth Hall Country Park, Brancepeth, County Durham DL16 7QXt: 01388 811772 f: 01388 818669e: [email protected]

Only seven miles from Durham City, Whitworth Hall is situated in a beautiful deer park and has easy access to all tourist attractions in the area.

GENERAL FACILITIES

Inspection Visit






Lift

Leisure Facilities

Languages Spoken


Bar

Coffee Shop

Restaurant

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RAMSIDE HALL Hotel & Golf Club C6

GROUP SIZE: Min 20 Max 52 GROUP RATE: B+B £45.00 DB&B* £58.00

TRAVEL TRADE

ACCOMMODATION Twin Rooms 30 Double Rooms 49 BREAKDOWN (En-Suite Only) Single Rooms 1 Single Sup/ment £15.00

Contact: Beverley AndersCarrville, Durham DH1 1TDt: 0191 3865282e: [email protected] www.ramsidehallhotel.co.ukWith close proximity to the A1M, just 2 miles from Durham City Centre, our delightful Hotel is surrounded by 27 holes of championship golf and lovely gardens, the ideal location to stay when visiting all the special experiences that the North East has to offer. Family owned, with caring staff, 80 well appointed en suite bedrooms, two restaurants and two bars. Free luggage porter. A Park & Ride is close by for easy economical access to Durham.

Spreads 2012.indd 40 18/10/11 10:28:58

www.groupsnortheastengland.com 39NORTH EAST ENGLAND

TOUR GUIDES AND TRAVEL SERVICES

EXECUTIVE COACH TOURSWanting something a little different?

Tours can vary from half days, full days or longer, from five days to a number of weeks. We can arrange tours from

single individuals up to large coach parties. We can tailor make to suit individual needs. These can include pick up from any UK airport, ferry port or train station. We have

all vehicle sizes from cars, mpv 7 seaters, 16 seaters, 24 seaters, 35 seaters to 49 seaters.

Our experienced staff will help you in every way possible in deciding on your own itinerary and your driver will also recommend places of interest on request while touring. With our knowledge of the local area we can personally

recommend hotels and places to eat and supply or recommend blue badge guides.

Garfield TravelFerguson Business Park West, Sleekburn,

Northumberland NE22 7DHTel: 01670 815496 Fax: 01670 811172

Email: [email protected] Web: www.garfieldtravel.co.ukBarnard Castle, Durham.

Romans & ReiversThis tour blends Roman history with the dramatic story of the medieval Border Reivers who left their mark on the region.

Gardens GaloreClimate geology and inspirational design from Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown and William Turner have combined to produce a garden tour with strong appeal for plantsmen and gardeners alike!

Grand Designs - Castles & Stately Homes of North East England

other areas of the country – join us to experience a grand day out.

Science Heroes - Celebrating Industrial HeritageWith rich natural resources as well as brilliant inventors and entrepreneurs our tour opens the door to the best the region has to offer.

Coast & CountrysideTake one National Park, blend with two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, add a dash of Heritage Coast and mix it all together for an inspirational tour.

Christian Heritage‘The Golden Age of Northumbria’ was an immensely rich time with the Lindisfarne Gospels being created and the area was taking its place in history as the ‘Cradle of Christianity’. Follow in the footsteps of the saints.

69 High Street, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 4AT0191 284 1721 www.travelbureaugosforth.comCorporate Groups Leisure Tailormade Honeymoon

To register for our brochure please call 0191 2841721

Travel Because it’s Tailored to Your GroupsTravel Bureau: The Incoming Agency for North East England

Spreads 2012.indd 41 18/10/11 11:02:15

40

Contact: Gwen KeatingLilac Cottage, 12 Front St, Whickham, Newcastle-upon-tyne Ne16 4eLt: 0191 488 5115 m: 07947327374 f: 0191 488 5115e: [email protected]

Bespoke guided tours with friendly, local professional Blue Badge and Green Badge tourist Guides. Specialists in Blue Badge guided coach panoramic tours of NewcastleGateshead and City walking tours. a variety of regular city walks available on request. also available for regional Blue Badge guided tours. all year round service.

Newcastle Gateshead C5 Guided Tours

Contact: Alex Jacobs11 Garden Crescent, ebchester, Consett, Durham DH8 0ptt: 01207 560 455e: [email protected]: www.northern-secrets.co.ukprofessional Blue Badge guiding experiences in english or German (bilingual) that will enhance your stay by bringing the region's treasures to life in an informative, friendly and entertaining way.Specialists in planning bespoke escorted tours and holidays designed to your requirements. We provide you thatpeace of mind. Members of itG and GrtG.

C5

Fully bonded inbound tour operator.

Contact: Tom KeatingLilac Cottage, 12 Front St, Whickham, Newcastle-upon-tyne Ne16 4eLt: 0191 488 5115 m: 07947327374 f: 0191 488 5115e:[email protected] www.tomkeating.net

Friendly, local, all year round Blue Badge guiding. General/special interest guided tours in North east england including NewcastleGateshead, Hadrian’s Wall, alnwick, Holy island, Northumberland Coast & Castles, teesdale, Durham.Bespoke panoramic coach tours/walks in NewcastleGateshead a speciality.itinerary planning/advice service available.

Personalised C5 Touring Services

Kate Walton C6 North east england Blue Badge Guide Contact: Kate Walton16 poplar Lea, Durham DH7 8Spt: 0191 378 4700e: [email protected]

Warm & friendly tours throughout North east england with professional Blue Badge Guide. itinerary planning advice. General & special interest tours including; Durham City & Cathedral, Hadrian's Wall, Christian Heritage, Secret Gardens of Northumberland.Member of the institute of tourist Guides and the Guild of registered tourist Guides.

Contact: Jan Williams13 the College, Durham City, Co. Durham DH1 3eQt: 0191 383 0988 m: 07751 881989e:[email protected] award winning Blue Badge Guide providing professional, friendly service for general and special interest groups in Northumberland, tyne & Wear, Co. Durham & tees Valley. Durham Cathedral accredited guide. Newcastle/Gateshead walking tours. itinerary planning service. Member of institute of tourist Guiding and Guild of registered tourist Guides. High customer care values.

Jan Williams C6 North east england Blue Badge Guide

TOUR GUIDES AND TRAVEL SERVICES

NewcastleGateshead Quays

Not just in2......North East England Group Travel Guide

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bLUE bADGE GUIDES

Blue Badge guides are professional tourist

guides who have been selected, trained,

examined and registered. The Blue Badge is

the highest guiding qualification in Britain

nationally and a recognised emblem of

excellence. The following are based and

operate in North East England.

Alan Appleton, Tourist Guiding Services

7 Melness Road, Hazlerigg, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE13 7BN

0191 236 6103 [email protected]

Alan Morgan

22 Jesmond Park West, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE7 7BY


Claire Scott, Blue Badge Tourist Guide

Pethfoot House, West Thirston, Northumberland NE65 9EE

01670 787201 [email protected]

Encompass Northumbria, Graeme Logan

19 Pleasant View, Medomsley, Consett, Durham DH8 6RE


Interpretours, Judith Edgoose

Todds House Farm, Sedgefield, Durham TS21 3EL


Jan Williams (Tour Guide)

13 The College, Durham DH1 3EQ


Kate Walton

16 Poplar Lea, Brandon, Durham DH7 8SP


Laura Rhodes MITG, Blue Badge Guide

14 Rectory Grove, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE3 1AL


Les Heslop

31 Welwyn Close, Redesdale Park, Wallsend NE28 8TE


Mark O’Keefe, North East England Blue Badge Guide

7 Orchard Close, Rowlands Gill, NE39 1EQ


Northern Secrets, Alex Jacobs

11 Garden Crescent, Ebchester, Conset DH8 0PT


Patricia Lowery MITG

North East England Blue Badge Guide

12 Elgin Gardens, Walkerdene, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE6 4EJ


Personalised Touring Services, Tom Keating

Lilac Cottage, 12 Front Street, Whickham,

Newcastle upon Tyne NE16 4EL


Robert Conlon, Professional Touring Services

214 Western Way, Darras Hall, Ponteland NE20 9ND


Shaun Timlin

19 McNamara Road, Rosehill, Wallsend, Newcastle NE28 7DP


Walter Willcox, Blue Badge Guiding

12 Seacroft Apartments, Rennington Close,

North Shields NE30 3PR 0191 296 5486

[email protected]

GREEN bADGE GUIDES

The following are members of the

NewcastleGateshead Green Badge Guide

Association who offer private and specially

tailored walking tours of NewcastleGateshead.

Alan Appleton, Tourist Guiding Services

7 Melness Road, Hazlerigg,

Newcastle Upon Tyne NE13 7BN 0191 2366103

[email protected]

Alan Morgan

22 Jesmond Park West, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE7 7BY


Anne Smith, Green Badge Guide

7 Cresswell Drive, Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 2SX


Anthea Lang

58 Salcombe Gardens, Low Fell, Gateshead NE9 6XZ


Freda Thompson

27 Purley Gardens, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE3 3DJ


Gwen Keating

Lilac Cottage, 12 Front Street, Whickham NE16 4EL


Ian McVicar

1 Teviotdale Gardens, High Heaton,

Newcastle Upon Tyne NE7 7PU


Jim Scott

20 Rokeby View, Low Fell, Gateshead NE9 7UD


Keiran-Ann Keilty64 The Broadway, Tynemouth NE30 2LQ

[email protected]

Patricia Lowery MITG12 Elgin Gardens, Walkergate, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE6 4EJ


bOAT TRIPS

Billy Shiel’s Farne Island Boat TripsSeahouses NE68 7YT 01665 720308

[email protected] www.farne-islands.com

Golden Gate Farne Island Boat Tours

Harbour, Seahouses NE68 7XZ 01665 721210

[email protected]

Kielder Water Cruises

Kielder Water, Kielder NE48 1BT 0870 240 3549

[email protected] www.nwl.co.uk/kielder

Omega Charters

Northumberland Seabird Centre, The Quayside,

Amble NE65 0HB 01665 710835

[email protected] www.omegacharters.co.uk

Prince Bishop River Cruiser

Brown’s Boathouse, Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AF


Princess River Cruise on the Tees

Endeavour Northern Limited, Castlegate Quay, Riverside,

Stockton-on-Tees TS18 1BZ 01642 608038

[email protected]

Puffin Cruises Dave Gray Boat Trips

21 Broomhill Street, Amble NE65 0AN 01665 712313

River Escapes

Sandgate Pier, Newcastle Quayside East,

Newcastle upon Tyne 01670 785666

[email protected] www.riverescapes.co.uk

TRAVEL SERVICES

City Sightseeing

Stagecoach Newcastle, Slatyford Depot, Slatyford Lane,

Newcastle upon Tyne NE5 2SE 0191 228 8900

[email protected] www.city-sightseeing.co.uk

Classic Coaches

Classic House, Morrison Road, Annfield Plain, Stanley,

Durham DH9 7RX 01207 282288

[email protected] www.classic-coaches.co.uk

East Coast Tours

21 Station Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 2QY 0191 253 3777

[email protected] www.eastcoasttaxis.com

Henry Cooper Coach Hire

Lane End Garage, Annitsford, Cramlington NE23 7BP

0191 250 0260

Northern Luxury Travel Ltd

1 West Drive, Cleadon Village, Sunderland SR6 7SJ


www.northernluxurytravel.co.uk

Parkers Execulink Travel

Ground Floor, Forth Banks House, Skinnerburn Road,

Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE1 3RH

0333 666 1 777 [email protected]


Spreads 2012.indd 43 17/10/11 16:58:40

Alnwick

2 The Shambles

Alnwick NE66 1TN

t: 01665 511333

e: [email protected]

Amble

Queen Street

Amble NE65 0DQ

t: 01665 712313


bellingham

The Heritage Centre, Hillside

Bellingham

Hexham NE48 2GR

t: 01434 220616


berwick upon Tweed

106 Marygate

Berwick upon Tweed TD15 1BN

t: 01289 301780


Corbridge

Hill Street

Corbridge NE45 5AA

t: 01434 632815


Craster

Craster Car Park

Craster

Alnwick NE66 3TW

t: 01665 576007


Haltwhistle

Mechanics Institute

Westgate

Haltwhistle NE49 0AX

Tel: (+44) 01434 322002


Hexham

Wentworth Car Park

Hexham NE46 1QE

t: 01434 652220


Morpeth

The Chantry

Bridge Street

Morpeth NE61 1PD

t: 01670 535200


Once brewed

Northumberland National Park Centre

Military Road

Bardon Mill

Hexham NE47 7AN

t: 01434 344396


Rothbury

Coquetdale Centre, Church House

Church Street

Rothbury NE65 7UP

t: 01669 620887


Seahouses

Seafield Car Park

Seafield Road

Seahouses NE68 7SW

t: 01289 301777


Wooler

The Cheviot Centre

12 Padgepool Place

Wooler NE71 6BL

t: 01668 282123


Gateshead

Central Library

Prince Consort Road

Gateshead NE8 4LN

t: 0191 433 8420


Gateshead Visitor Information Service

St Mary’s Church, Oakwell Gate,

Gateshead Quays

T: +44 (0)191 478 4222

E: [email protected]

Newcastle upon Tyne

8-9 Central Arcade

Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 5BQ

t: 0191 2778000


North Shields

Unit 18

Royal Quays Outlet Shopping

North Shields NE29 6DW

t: 0191 2005895


South Shields

South Shields Museum & Gallery

Ocean Road

South Shields NE33 2HZ

t: 0191 454 6612

e: museum.tic@

southtyneside.gov.uk

South Shields

Amphitheatre

Sea Road

South Shields NE33 2LD

t: 0191 455 7411

e: foreshore.tic@

southtyneside.gov.uk

Sunderland

50 Fawcett Street

Sunderland SR1 1RF

t: 0191 553 2000


Whitley bay

Park Road

Whitley Bay NE26 1EJ

t: 0191 2008535


Durham

2 Millennium Place

Durham DH1 1WA

t: 0191 384 3720


Middleton-in-Teesdale

10 Market Place

Middleton-in-Teesdale DL12 0QG

t: 01833 641001


Peterlee

4 Upper Yoden Way

Peterlee SR8 1AX

t: 0191 586 4450


Stanhope

Durham Dales Centre

Castle Gardens

Stanhope DL13 2FJ

t: 01388 527650

e: durham.dales.centre@

durham.gov.uk

Guisborough

Priory Grounds, Church Street

Guisborough TS14 6HQ

t: 01287 633801

e: guisborough_tic@

redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

Hartlepool

Hartlepool Art Gallery, Church Square

Hartlepool TS24 7EQ

t: 01429 869706


Middlesbrough

Town Hall, Albert Road

Middlesbrough TS1 2QQ

t: 01642 729700


Redcar

This is Redcar & Cleveland

24 High Street, Redcar TS10 3DR

t: 01642 471921

e: redcar_tic@


Saltburn

Saltburn Library

Windsor Road, Saltburn TS12 1AT

t: 01287 622422

e: saltburn_tic@


Stockton-on-Tees

The Shambles, Market Hall,

High Street, Stockton TS18 1AU

t: 01642 528130/1

e: touristinformation@

stockton.gov.uk

TEES VALLEY

DURHAM

NORTHUMbERLAND

Staff are trained in promoting high standards of service & customer care.

Some facilities for disabled people.

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD, SUNDERLAND, SOUTH SHIELDS and TYNEMOUTH

TIC name in blue designates seasonal opening, please check with TIC for details.

Look out for this sign to be assured of a warm and helpful welcome.

LOCAL TOURIST INFORMATION

CENTRES

42

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Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this publication is accurate, the publishers cannot accept any responsibility in respect of any error or omission that may

have occurred.

The publishers gratefully acknowledge the use of photography supplied by North East England, Kevin Radcliffe, Alex Telfer, Chris Auld, Jason Friend, Graeme Peacock, Ian Martin, David Williams and

VisitBritain/Britain on View - Rod Edwards, James McCormick, Martin Brent, Pawel Libera, Chris Coe and the County Durham Tourism Partnership. A big thanks to all the other individuals, groups and

organisations who kindly contributed to the North East England Group Travel Guide.

NORTHUMBERLAND

DURHAM

NEWCASTLEGATESHEAD

TEES VALLEY

Designed and produced by in2 Design & PublishingAll rights reserved © in2 Design & Publishing Limited 2012 Cover pictures:

Hadrian's Wall, Northumberland.

Front cover small pictures:

Arbeia Roman Fort & Museum, South Shields. Durham Cathedral.


Back cover small pictures:

Lindisfarne Priory. The Angel of the North. Durham Cathedral.


NORTH EAST ENGLAND

GROUP TRAVEL GUIDE 2012

about group travel


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North East England Group Travel Guide 2012

Documents

Transcript of North East England Group Travel Guide 2012