Artistic Umbria
A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Explore Northumberland, England's northernmost county, with its diverse landscapes, captivating gardens, and picturesque coastline. Stay in the heart of this enchanting region, a short drive from the Northumberland National Park, for a seamless and rejuvenating exploration of moorlands, rolling hills, and inviting beaches, complemented by charming towns and villages.
Northumberland
Culture
Coast & Islands
Jul
Sep
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
The perfect blend of guided shorter walks, sightseeing trips, and quality accommodation for a more leisurely way to discover the world.
Overview
Nestled in the North East of England, Northumberland stands as the northernmost county, boasting an array of captivating landscapes that includes moorland, rolling hills, picturesque coastline, and inviting beaches, all punctuated by charming towns and character-filled villages.
A haven for garden and flower enthusiasts, Northumberland, the birthplace of renowned landscape architect Capability Brown, invites you to explore stunning stately homes and their exceptional gardens. Immerse yourself in the beauty of well-designed landscapes and vibrant blooms.
The vast open spaces of Northumberland offer a breath of the freshest air, creating an idyllic setting to pause and rejuvenate. From dramatic, rugged hills to expansive sandy beaches, this region exudes natural splendor that captivates the soul.
In the historic town of Alnwick, our visit unfolds amidst the grandeur of its incredible castle, complemented by leisurely strolls and the opportunity to delve into the world of literature at the popular Barter Books, all while basking in the warmth of an open fire.
We stay at a charming 300-year-old coaching inn in the heart of Alnwick, provide a cosy retreat. Daily journeys of less than 30 minutes, facilitated by private coach transport, allow us to seamlessly explore the wonders of Northumberland. Gentle walks are woven into the itinerary, offering a chance to absorb the beauty of Northumberland and its heritage coastline.
With your leader expertly orchestrating the schedule, all you need to do is be in the right place at the right time, ensuring a stress-free experience that allows you to fully relax and savour the stunning scenery of Northumberland. Embark on a journey where every step reveals the natural and historical treasures of this enchanting English county.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
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Explore the historic city of Durham, home to the iconic Durham Cathedral and Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that create a breath-taking cityscape. Discover landmarks like the Botanical Gardens, Beamish Industrial Museum, Bowes Museum, Auckland Castle, and the enchanting waterfalls at Low and High Force.
Enjoy the stunning scenery and heritage sites of Guernsey, along with two day trips to Sark and Herm. You’ll have the chance to visit public and private gardens, admire wildflowers lining cliffside paths and discover each of the islands’ natural beauty.
Enjoy the highlights of England’s smallest island county.
The warm waters of the Gulf Stream ensure the Scilly Islands have an exceptionally mild climate and their relative remoteness has an Englishness of a bygone age in an unspoilt sub-tropical paradise.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
*New hotel for 2024*
The White Swan is located at the heart of the small, historic market town of Alnwick, a short distance from Alnwick Castle and Gardens, offering 56 bedrooms, a bar/bistro and restaurant. The property is a charming 300 year old coaching inn which has recently undergone a tasteful refurbishment.
Classic ensuite hotel room facilities include:
The bedrooms we offer on this holiday are the 'Classic' standard, however the hotel also offers Superior rooms, Suites and Four Poster Suites. If you would like a room upgrade, please let us know and we can enquire with the hotel. All single rooms are double rooms for sole occupancy which offer plenty of space.
Dinner each evening will be taken in the hotel's Olympic Restaurant where the head chef and his team have put together seasonally-changing menus using fresh, local produce and offering a wide range of dishes. The interior of the restaurant is a wonderful sight - you are surrounded by the original panelling, mirrors, the ceiling and fireplace salvaged from RMS Olympic (the sister ship of RMS Titanic).
There are 27 free car parking spaces located at the rear of the hotel available on a first come first served basis. If the car park is full, there are two large public car parks to the rear of the hotel which are free of charge 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Trip Information
To fully enjoy the walking on this holiday you should be able to walk along uneven undulating paths at about 1½ to 2 miles per hour for distances of between 3 to 4½ miles with walks lasting up to 3 hours. When sightseeing is involved at the places visited, you can walk as much or as little as you wish.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
Local Transport Costs
We include the local travel costs using private hire coaches when necessary.
Our Adagio Leader will arrange everything. You just need to be at the right place at the right time.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Your Leader
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organized they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leaders Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
Group Size
We believe that the best things come in small packages, and our Adagio holidays prove just that. We limit our groups to a maximum of 18 persons, plus the Adagio Leader, so that everyone has the opportunity to mix, share their love of travel and return home with new friendships. Small groups also have less detrimental local impact, allows us to use public transport on some days, eat at small local restaurants and, we believe, offers a better experience.
Getting to your Holiday
Check-in at the hotel is from 3:00pm. Our Adagio Leader will meet with you prior to your evening dinner for a group welcome meeting.
To reach the hotel by car:
From the North
Take the A1 south until you pick up signs for Alnwick, B1340. Branch left and then at the T-junction turn right onto the B1340 entering Alnwick. At the T-junction, turn right and proceed under the archway and the hotel is located directly on the right hand side.
From the South
Take the A1 north until you pick up signs for Alnwick, A1068. Bear left on to A1068 and continue to Oaks roundabout. Take second left off the roundabout and proceed to the marked town centre. On entering the town centre go under the archway and the hotel is located directly on the right hand side. (2 minutes from the A1)
There are 27 free car parking spaces located at the rear of the hotel available on a first come first served basis. If the car park is full, there are two large public car parks to the rear of the hotel which are free of charge 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
To reach the hotel by rail:
The nearest train station is located in Alnmouth. This is approximately 5 miles from the hotel so we suggest you pre-book a taxi. You may like to try contacting Knights Taxis on 07760 751 667 or Alnwick Wizard Taxis on 01665 663709 for a quote.
Northumberland by air:
Flights land at Newcastle International Airport, a 35-minute drive from Alnwick.
Route planning to and from Alnwick:
The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find the hotel.
An excellent website to assist in your travel plans is Rome2Rio.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
We stay on a half board basis. Breakfasts and evening meals will be taken in the hotel restaurant. Lunches will be at your expense. The hotel can provide packed lunches at a cost of around £9.50 each or there will be opportunities to buy lunch at the places we visit each day.
Footwear
Comfortable, broken in, walking boots or shoes with a good sole are recommended for this holiday. Walking shoes or other comfortable footwear will be suitable for sightseeing days.
General Kit List
We recommend you bring the following items with you:
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
Travel Document Checklist
To ensure your holiday gets off to a good start, please make sure that you bring the following documents and information with you:
Ideal Maps & Guidebooks
Prior to your visit to Bamburgh Castle, you may wish to visit https://www.bamburghcastle.com/ for more information. The entrance fee is included in the holiday price.
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Further Health Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
Travel Insurance
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
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