Yorkshire at Christmas

Arrival in Harrogate

Make your way to Harrogate, where your Tour Manager will be waiting to greet you. You are free to get acquainted with the spa town of Harrogate, renowned for its independent boutiques and Betty's Tea Rooms, before dinner together this evening.

York

Today we travel the short distance to nearby York. Steeped in history we discover more about this walled city as we meet our local guide for a fascinating walking tour around the major sights. Our guide shares their passion for the city as we pass the Minster - York's majestic Gothic cathedral - explore the charming cobbled streets of the Shambles and discover the city's incredible history. Following the tour the rest of your afternoon is free to continue exploring this fascinating city. Why not visit the wonderful National Railway Museum (free entry) where you can see exhibits such as a Japanese Bullet Train and a number of Royal carriages? Take in the view from Clifford's Tower or return to York Minster, the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. Alternatively enjoy a stroll along the Shambles, regarded as one of the best preserved medieval streets in Europe.

Please note: For departure YKX1902 Days 2 and 3 are swapped.

Settle & Carlisle Line

Leaving Harrogate behind, today we head to Settle to join the famous Settle & Carlisle line. The 72-mile route is regularly voted one of the world's top railway journeys, and once we set off it is easy to see why. We climb quickly and travel through the dramatic Yorkshire Dales, past the backdrop of the mighty Three Peaks; Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. Here we cross the spectacular Ribblehead Viaduct, a true testament to Victorian engineering that carries us 104ft above the sweeping valley floor. After crossing the exposed Blea Moor, we head into Cumbria, passing through Dent station, which at 1150 ft is the highest mainline station in England. We continue through the rolling hills of the Eden Valley before arriving in Carlisle. Here you have time to explore and enjoy lunch in the charming border town, before returning along the beautiful railway.

Please note: For departure YKX1902 Days 2 and 3 are swapped.

Christmas Eve & the Wensleydale Railway

Today it is Christmas Eve, and we join the Wensleydale Railway, enjoying a mince pie and mulled wine at our seats as we travel through the lovely Yorkshire Dales. After our journey, we visit Bettys Tea Rooms, for a delicious luxury cream tea.

Christmas Day at leisure

On Christmas Day the emphasis is on food and relaxation. After a leisurely breakfast you are free to wander into Harrogate and along The Stray or visit Valley Gardens. Harrogate has beautiful parks and an abundance of historic buildings, that date back to the time when the town first rose to prominence thanks to its spa waters. We enjoy a full traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Relax with a glass of sherry and some Christmas cake this afternoon before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure. This evening we enjoy a buffet together in the hotel.

Fountains Abbey

Today we take a coach excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fountains Abbey. Set within a beautiful estate, the largest abbey ruins in the country host an annual candlelit carol service within the Cellarium. This spectacular vaulted room is the only part of the abbey with any ceiling remaining, and is adorned with candles for a beautiful, atmospheric carol service. Fountains Abbey, an area of outstanding natural beauty, boasts ten historic buildings, a water garden and visitor centre all within the grounds. You are free to explore these independently before we return to the hotel.

Homeward bound

After breakfast our tour concludes and you are free to leave Harrogate at leisure, but make sure you do not leave before treating yourself to a cup of tea and a Yorkshire Fat Rascal at the famous Betty's Tearooms.

Please note

Please note that while every departure of this tour will feature the same excursions, the order may differ from that shown above.

Departure Times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with our dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We write to all booked customers approximately 10 weeks prior to the start of their tour to advise the exact departure and return time for their particular group.