Day 1 - Arrive in Harrogate
Your tour starts today when you meet your Tour Manager at the 3* White Hart Hotel in Harrogate. After settling in, perhaps take a stroll through this pretty spa town, known for its attractive boutiques and Betty's Tea Rooms, ahead of dinner this evening. (D)
Day 2 - York
Today we take the train to the beautiful walled city of York. Steeped in centuries of history, we discover more about the famous city on a fascinating guided walking tour of the main sights, including the magnificent Minster and the quaint Shambles. Following the tour, you are free to browse York's fabulous Christmas Markets. Held in Parliament Square, the stalls offer an enticing selection of gift ideas and decorations, as well as a number of tasty treats. The National Railway Museum features a number of interesting exhibits, including a Japanese bullet train and a selection of Royal carriages, and should also not be missed. For alternative views of the city, take a walk along the city walls, or if you're feeling energetic, admire the panorama from the top of the Minster's central tower. (B,D)
Day 3 - Grassington Dickensian Festival
We transfer to the picture-postcard town of Grassington today. At this time of year, this scenic rural setting in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales forms the backdrop to the Dickensian Festival, as the town is transported back to the time of Charles Dickens. The attractively decorated market square becomes a traditional market place for shopkeepers and villagers - dressed in Victorian costume - to display their fayre. We enjoy time to stroll through the town, absorb the festive atmosphere, and even shop for gifts, before returning to Harrogate for dinner. (B,D)
Day 4 - North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Today's excursion takes us by coach to Pickering, where we board the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. We enjoy a charming steam-hauled journey through the stunning landscape of the North York Moors National Park to Levisham, where the station has been carefully restored to its 1912 appearance. On our return to Pickering, we indulge in a festive mince pie and a warm drink. Later, we continue by coach to the pretty market town of Helmsley, which is overlooked by the ruins of its brooding castle. Here we have time to explore, and perhaps take lunch at one of the welcoming inns or tea-rooms. (B,D)
Day 5 - Homeward Bound
After breakfast, the tour concludes, and you are free to depart Harrogate at your leisure, perhaps taking the opportunity to explore the town before you go. You may choose to take a walk through the attractive Valley Gardens or visit the RHS's Harlow Carr Gardens, located just outside the town. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.
