Christmas at Castle Howard

Day 1:

Following our pick-ups this morning we will proceed to Belfast for the 07:30hrs Stena Line crossing to
Cairnryan. As we travel south, we will make a comfort stop at the Gretna Tourist area to allow time to stretch our legs and avail of the restaurant and toilet facilities. Refreshed, we will continue our journey down the M6 to Penrith where we branch off onto the A66. We will travel over the Pennines to Scotch Corner where we will have another short comfort stop. Then the final stretch of our journey takes us to Harrogate for an estimated time of arrival of 18:00 hrs. We will be based at the 4-star Yorkshire Hotel, which is centrally located and ideal for exploring the lovely town of Harrogate. Here we will be based for 4 nights dinner bed and breakfast. Time to relax and unwind.

Day 2:

Depart Hotel 10:00hrs
We leave the hotel today for an excursion to Castle Howard for their Christmas Experience. We will spend the day at this beautiful stately home, which is beautifully decorated for the Season, to soak up the festive atmosphere.

Day 3:

Depart Hotel 10:00hrs
Our excursion today will take us to the wonderful City of York. Here we can enjoy the history and culture of this impressive riverside City at our own pace. So much choice. Will it be the beautiful Minster, the Jorvik Museum, the Shambles for some retail therapy, the National Railway Museum, or walking the city walls?

Day 4:

Free Day
An opportunity to explore the beautiful Spa Town of Harrogate. Its historic charm, beautiful gardens, and unique spa heritage has attracted visitors for thousands of years. Today we can explore Harrogate’s attractions or enjoy some quality shopping.

Day 5:

Depart Hotel 09:00hrs
Time to say our fond farewells as we begin the journey home. We will travel via the Watershed Mill & Visitor Centre in Settle where we will have a short break. We will then continue our journey North toward Gretna where we will have a further break and final opportunity to purchase any gifts. Then it is time to say our good-byes as we move on to Cairnryan to check-in for the 19:30hrs ferry back to Belfast.