Castles, Coast and Good Steam Fun

Looking for a day out to please all members of the family? This should do it, with elements ranging from the intrigue of Harry Potter's school and a garden of deadly plants to chocolate-box villages, a miniature railway ride and fun and games on miles of golden sand.

National Park, Forest and Gardens

Keep your eyes open for red squirrels in the beautiful landscape of Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water and Forest Park, and be as active or laid-back as you like on a walking or cycling trail or a leisurely lake cruise. Just leave yourself enough breath to smell the beautiful flowers of Belsay gardens!

Chic Cities and Ships

A tale of two cities - with a side order of maritime fun and heritage. Start with NewcastleGateshead's art, culture and shopping, then slow the pace to admire the historic architecture and ambience of Durham City before stepping on board the oldest warship still afloat at Hartlepool's Maritime Experience.

Hills, Dales, Steam and Wheels

A great day out, starting with all the thrills of the steam age at Locomotion in Shildon and including lunch in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty before an afternoon of adventure in Hamsterley Forest - take your wheels to test out the region's newest mountain bike skills centre!

Living History, Birds and Bargains

Start with a trip down memory lane, back to the early 19th and 20th centuries at Beamish, the North of England Open Air Museum. Then it's time to meet an amazing variety of ducks, geese, swans and even flamingos from the far corners of the world before heading for the vibrant cultural and historic delights of Sunderland and even picking up a few bargains on the way back.

Explorers, exploring and exhilaration

Seafarers, smugglers and a hill which sounds temptingly like a dessert...this one's full of surprises! After hearing of Captain's Cook's seafaring adventures you'll be in the mood for a bit of fresh air, and there's plenty in store here, from a picnic at the priory to an exhilarating hilltop stroll or a walk along the pier.

Romans, Saxons and a 19th Century Mine

Want to cover almost 2000 years of history in less than a day? Here's how! We start with the Romans at Hadrian's Wall, then it's on to admire a spot of Saxon architecture and the oldest purpose-built prison in England before popping on a hard hat and going down a mine to see how lead miners worked in the 19th century. You'll dig up some fascinating information!

Coast, Christian Heritage...and a Conversation Piece

Golden beaches, history, wildlife and culture - all in one unforgettable day. Take your camera for the wonderful sea and river views, meet the animals at Bede's World's Anglo-Saxon farm and make sure you walk up an appetite, because there are some lovely little tearooms along the way.

Seaside Getaway, Gardens and Glass

A quiet morning by the sea, and an afternoon of culture and history in the city! Durham Heritage Coast has so much to discover, from unique geology to wonderful wild flowers, and this itinerary contrasts its peaceful natural beauty with amazing man-made treasures in some of Sunderland's most popular attractions. Enjoy.

Castle, Coffee Shops and a Cascading Waterfall

A treasure-trail of sights, from a ruined Roman fort to a garden of delights. Barnard Castle is renowned for its antique shops as well as its tea and cakes while Eggleston Hall Gardens is a haven for many rare and tender plant species high up in the Teesdale moors. You'll want to come back tomorrow and do it all again!

A Treehouse, Tradition and a Trip on the Train

Two awe-inspiring castles, the acclaimed Alnwick Garden and postcard-perfect villages are just some of the attractions on this tour! Others include the chance to visit a working corn mill, a ride on a miniature railway and delightful country scenery. Relax and take your time to enjoy it all.

World Heritage Wonders

Stunning countryside views and two World Heritage Sites in one day are the highlights of this historic tour. Start with the breathtaking sweep of Hadrian's Wall, still standing proud after almost 2,000 years, and then take in two Roman forts before immersing yourself in the majestic history and fine dining culture of Durham City.