One of the best ways to take in the beauty of the lake is from the water; Windermere Lake Cruises offers a scenic circular cruise around the islands as well as a regular shuttle service from Lakeside, Bowness and Ambleside.
In the pretty village of Grasmere, Dove Cottage is the former home of William Wordsworth and the place where he penned many of his famous works. Almost exactly as it was when he lived here, the popular museum can be reached by the 599 or 555 bus from Windermere train station – Traveline has the latest bus information.
Hill Top is the country escape where Beatrix Potter was inspired to create many of her famous characters. Now a time capsule of her life, the 17th century farmhouse is a must for all fans of the Peter Rabbit series. The route includes the Stagecoach 596 bus to Bowness-on-Windermere, a boat to Ferry House, and then a Mountain Goat bus. It runs from March to October; for further information refer to the Windermere Lake Cruises website.
Presiding over the city from its lofty seat atop a rocky cliff, Edinburgh Castle is the city’s most iconic attraction, wowing visitors with its impressive views, legendary 1 o’clock gun salute and dazzling display of Scottish Crown Jewels.
Used by The Queen and the Royal family for state visits and holidays for more than 40 years, the Royal Yacht Britannia is now berthed in the harbour of Leith. The no 22 bus from Princes Street stops here.
This fascinating guided tour explores the vaults hidden beneath Edinburgh’s South Bridge and the darker side of the 18th Century boom years.
Edinburgh Dungeon is a thrilling attraction that offers 11 live action shows and 2 underground rides! It displays the city’s terrifying past for all to see, hear and smell, using chillingly amusing characters to bring stories to life.
A living, working museum spread over 300 acres, Beamish gives a real sense of what life was like in Northern England during the 1820s, 1900s and 1940s. Complete with farm animals, authentic restaurants and costumed guides, this uniquely English attraction makes a great family day out. If visitors take Waggonway bus 28/28A from Newcastle they will save 25% on their entrance fee.
A magnificent medieval castle set in manicured gardens, Alnwick is one of the most impressive heritage estates in the country. History lovers will appreciate the castle’s dramatic history while those on the Harry Potter trail will relish the chance to get a selfie at the real-life incarnation of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The train from Newcastle to Alnmouth takes just 45 minutes, followed by the X18 bus (10 mins).
Raised up above the city on a rocky promontory, the Norman church is a sight to behold. Founded in 1093, the building has seen hundreds of years of political, social and religious intrigue, and more recently found fame when the cloisters doubled as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. Tours of the cathedral are available.
Standing side by side with the cathedral, the ancient castle forms the other part of this unique and fascinating World Heritage site. Now home to University of Durham students, the grand site is best explored on a guided tour.
Truly awe-inspiring, York Minster is one of the most beautiful gothic cathedrals in the world and one of the largest examples of medieval architecture in Northern Europe. The stunning stained glass on display is a true highlight, as is climbing the steps of the central tower for a bird’s eye view of the city.
A gem amongst English stately homes, Castle Howard is a majestic house surrounded by lush gardens. Splendidly maintained, the house’s ornate rooms are filled with antiques and offer stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside. A bus runs direct from York city to Castle Howard.
An open-top bus tour gives a great insight into the sights and attractions that tell the story of York’s 2,000 years of history. There are 22 stops across the city and there is an audio guide in 9 languages. The bus stops at all of the key attractions, including: York Minster, York Dungeon, Clifford’s Tower and the city walls.
The York Pass includes entry to over 30 top attractions in Yorkshire, such as museums, castles, galleries, dining out or entertainment.
Attractions include Castle Howard, York Minster, Clifford’s Tower, Yorkshire Air Museum and many more.
