A lovely early break exploring the delights of North Yorkshire, with excursions into the dales, and time in Skipton, Harrogate and York, including a visit to the magnificent York Minster.
Day 1 We travel north, with suitable refreshment stops, reaching our hotel in Harrogate late afternoon.
Day 2 Our day takes us to the historic cathedral city of York, the capital of Yorkshire and a particularly beautiful city. We have included a visit to 7th-century York Minster, to experience the vast spaces and breathtaking medieval architecture, discover its Roman roots and learn about the Minster’s role in Viking York. The rest of the day is free to wander through the shambles, visit one of the many museums and enjoy lunch or a drink by the riverside.
Day 3 We drive into the Yorkshire Dales, passing through the pretty village of Pateley Bridge, travelling over the moorland until we arrive at Grassington, a quaint cobbled market town. On to Skipton, known as the “Gateway to the Dales”. The high street leads up to the church, behind which you will see the impressive 900-year-old castle and Skipton Woods.
Day 4 This morning we take a short drive to the spa and market town of Knaresborough. The town hosts many cafés and tearooms, or you may enjoy a wander along the riverside. We return to Harrogate, where the rest of the day is at leisure. Enjoy a stroll through the beautiful Valley Gardens, explore the delightful Victoria Arcade for some retail therapy and have a relaxing lunch in one of the many restaurants, cafés and bars. Later this afternoon, return to the hotel to enjoy a cream tea to end your holiday on a sweet note!
Day 5 Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel homewards making suitable refreshment stops along the way.
The Old Swan Hotel stands in the centre of the lovely town of Harrogate, in Yorkshire, and is famed as being Agatha Christie’s hiding place during her disappearance in 1926. Bedrooms are stylishly furnished, and the public areas include the Wedgwood Restaurant and the Swan Bar and Lounge. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift.
