York, Historic Homes & the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Make your own way to our hotel in York, where you will meet our experienced Tour Manager. Enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner and a drink served in the hotel's restaurant.

After breakfast, our coach takes us into the heart of York. Here, a knowledgeable local guide will join us on an introductory walking tour, concluding at Fairfax House – one of England’s finest Georgian townhouses. We include entrance to the house, which is like stepping into the glory days of city living in 18th-century York. Once serving as the winter home of Viscount Fairfax and his daughter Anne, the opulent interiors feature impressive stucco ceilings. A stunning collection of furniture brings the house to life, and as you explore you will gain an understanding of the tastes, fashions, architectural styles, and much more that were prominent in the Georgian era.

Once our visit has ended, we will rejoin the coach and head to Nunnington Hall. Situated on the banks of the River Rye, this idyllic manor house tells the story of three families: the Grahams, Rutsons and Fifes. The interior exhibits period rooms displaying antique furniture, miniatures, textiles and ceramics, whilst there is a beautiful walled garden adorned with seasonal flowers and traditional orchards outside.

We return to the hotel by coach.

Included Highlights

Fairfax House Nunnington Hall York with Walking Tour

After a leisurely breakfast, our coach takes us across the beautiful North York Moors National Park to the charming moorland village of Goathland. Attracting visitors since the 19th century, many will recognise the village as ‘Aidensfield’ from the popular TV series, Heartbeat. Enjoy time to explore the independent shops and tea rooms during some free time.

Our next stop is the beloved coastal town of Whitby, crowned by the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Whitby Abbey. Whitby is referenced in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and it is also the birthplace of Captain Cook’s ship, the Endeavour. After soaking up the maritime charm of Whitby, we'll board the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Take in the rolling views as we travel from Whitby to Pickering, with a brief stop in Pickering before the coach takes us back to our hotel.

Included Highlights

North Yorkshire Moors Railway Pickering Whitby Goathland

This morning, we'll set out on our coach to explore the market town of Helmsley, where the historic Helmsley Castle awaits. A monument spanning nine centuries, the castle has stood as a medieval fortress, a Tudor mansion, and a stronghold during the Civil War, offering an immersive journey through England's rich history.

After some free time to explore, we continue to the heart of the Howardian Hills with a visit to Castle Howard. The private residence of the Howard family for over 300 years, this is one of the most magnificent historic houses in Britain. First created by Charles Howard, the 3rd Earl of Carlisle, the house has featured in several TV programmes. Enjoy time to wander the remarkable castle and its grounds, which sprawl across more than 1,000 acres and feature parkland, serene lakes, diverse wildlife and more.

We will return to our hotel by coach for a relaxing final evening and dinner.

Included Highlights

Castle Howard Helmsley Castle

After a leisurely breakfast, it is time for you to check out of the hotel and make your way home.