Borders Country, Vera’s Northumbria & Barnard Castle

We travel to the Tyneside coast to step into the dramatic world of the crime drama, Vera. Our tour with a local specialist guide takes us to the various filming locations scattered along the coast, such as Amble, Blyth, Seaton Sluice and Whitley Bay among others. All of these atmospheric destinations were chosen for their distinctive seascapes and waterfront towns, which provide the perfect setting for the no-nonsense DCI Stanhope’s many compelling investigations.

We cap off our tour with free time in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Ranked among the best cities to visit in the UK, Newcastle has been featured extensively in Vera due to its unique and metropolitan appearance. Take the chance to discover these filming locations as well as many of its iconic landmarks and historical sites, showcasing its industrial heritage.

We begin our day with a scenic tour through the rugged landscapes of the Durham Dales and North Pennines with a local specialist, providing us with a dramatic view of the moorlands, valleys and rivers that have earned the region recognition as an Area of Outstanding Beauty. Our first visit is to Blanchland, one of the most beautiful villages of the North Pennines, nestled on the banks of the River Derwent.

Afterwards, we continue to the charming market town of Barnard Castle, known locally as ‘Barney’. Taking its name from the actual castle it grew around, the town is a popular sightseeing destination due to its incredible scenery and the wealth of history on display, the highlight of which is the castle itself, an intimidating 12^th-century fortress which sits atop a high rock overlooking the town below (entry not included). There's time to explore and enjoy one of the lovely restaurants and cafés here.

Our return journey includes a photo stop at the Angel of the North en route back to our hotel – a must-see while in this region!

The romantic landscapes at the end of England await as we embark on a guided tour to enjoy tales of the turbulent history of the Scottish Borders. We travel up through the Northumberland National Park close to the Cheviot Hills, past picturesque Ford and Etal, before crossing the River Tweed at Coldstream into Scotland. Here, we stop at the picturesque market town of Kelso where there’s free time to have a spot of lunch and the chance to explore the fine ruins of its historic abbey, whose former gardens are now known as The Square, the largest market square in Scotland.

Our journey continues through the beautiful borderlands where, we have another break in the colourful town of Jedburgh, before re-crossing the border back into England and travelling across the Northumberland Moors as we return to our hotel.