Day 1

We arrive at our hotel in time for a welcome tea/coffee and dinner.

Day 2

Castle Howard & York
In the morning we visit the magnificent Castle Howard, situated in sweeping parkland, dotted with statues, temples, lakes and formal gardens. This opulent country house has been the setting for many cinematic productions including the TV adaptation of Brideshead Revisited. We will enjoy tea/coffee and cake here before, later in the afternoon, spending time at leisure exploring the beautiful walled city of York. You can also choose to revel in York Minster's stunning medieval stained glass, or simply take a stroll around the city, taking in its many hidden gems.

Day 3

Wensleydale Railway, Wensleydale Creamery & Blacksheep Brewery
We start this morning with a trip on the heritage Wensleydale Railway from Leeming Bar. Meander through the stunning hills and valleys of Herriot country, towards Redmire. Next, we visit the famous Wensleydale Creamery, where we watch cheese being handcrafted by master cheesemakers. To wash this down, we enjoy a 1 hour 'shepherded' tour at the Blacksheep Brewery, ending with the chance to relish a glass of their award-winning ale.

Day 4

Eden Camp & Yorkshire Lavender
Today we visit Eden Camp where we experience the sights, sounds and even the smells of life in WWII. Set in an original Prisoner of War Camp, this atmospheric museum recounts the social and military history of the war in expertly recreated scenes. In the afternoon we breathe in the heady scents at Yorkshire Lavender as we wander around the gardens and admire the vibrant array of colours. We return for our final evening's dinner back at the hotel.

Day 5

After breakfast, we make our way home.

Hotel

3* Mercure York Fairfield Manor, York, North Yorkshire

In a peaceful setting, less than 4 miles from the historic walled city of York, this elegant Georgian manor house sits amongst extensive lush green grounds. Enjoy a drink on the manicured lawn or in the comfortable lounge bar before heading to the restaurant which offers a selection of tasty dishes prepared using fresh ingredients from the hotel’s own herb garden.

Bedrooms: TV, tea/coffee in room, hairdryer.

Facilities: Bar, restaurant, Wi-Fi, 24-hour reception.

Mobility information: Lift in areas of the hotel.