Borders Country, Vera’s Northumbria & Barnard Castle - JG Explorer

5 days day day

from £439££pp

2026 Apr Jul Aug

Based on the popular novels, the TV series Vera debuted more than a decade ago and introduced audiences to the sweeping scenery of the North East which provides the dynamic backdrop of the show. On this wonderful five-day break, we journey to some of the programme’s most recognisable filming locations along the Tyneside Coast with a local, specialist guide. Discover the dramatic beauty and fascinating heritage of the region with excursions to historic Barnard Castle, the beautiful Durham Dales and the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Borders – this is a tour worth investigating!

Highlights

Return coach travel
4 nights at the Leonardo Hotel, Newcastle (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
Blue Badge guided tour of Vera’s Northumbria (Amble, Newbiggin, Blyth, Seaton Sluice, St Mary’s Island, Whitley Bay & Tynemouth)
Guided tour of the Durham Dales, North Pennines & Barnard Castle with a local specialist
Guided Borders Country tour (Ford, Etal, Coldstream, Kelso & Jedburgh) with a local specialist
Photo stop at the Angel of the North
Free time in Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Itinerary

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.

Accommodation

Leonardo Hotel, Newcastle, England

JG3

The Leonardo Hotel, Newcastle is located in the heart of the city. The hotel offers a stylish bar and a contemporary restaurant. The modern en-suite rooms have a flat-screen TV with Freeview, tea and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Rating

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.

Helpful Information

Explorer Coach – Travel in style

Turn your journey into part of the holiday with our deluxe JG Explorer coaches. Designed for comfort and relaxation, every detail has been thoughtfully considered so you can simply sit back, unwind and enjoy the ride. With no driving to worry about, your holiday begins the moment you step aboard.

A smooth ride from start to finish

Our experienced drivers know their routes inside out, ensuring you reach your destination safely and comfortably. Along the way, they’re happy to share local knowledge and helpful insights, making every mile part of the experience.

More space, more comfort

Exclusive to the JG Travel Group, JG Explorer coaches feature just 44 seats, giving you more space to stretch out and relax. Reclining seats with padded support and footrests allow you to find your perfect position, while improved legroom ensures a comfortable journey wherever you choose to sit.

For ease and accessibility, there is a convenient floor-level toilet on board — meaning no awkward steps during your journey.

The best seat in the house

Upgrade to a premium front seat and enjoy panoramic views of the road ahead, extra legroom and a handy countertop for your personal belongings – the perfect spot to take in the scenery in comfort.

Entertainment sorted

Stay entertained throughout your journey with our wireless media system, offering a range of films and fun quizzes. Simply connect using your smartphone or tablet and enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the coach. Every seat is also equipped with a USB port to keep your devices charged along the way.

Refreshments on tap

JG Explorer coaches include a rear-mounted kitchen area stocked with hot and cold drinks, so refreshments are always within easy reach. There’s also a filtered water tap available, allowing you to refill your bottle whenever you like.