From the moors of the Brontës to the windswept shores of Northumberland, this immersive family road trip takes you through Northern England’s most iconic castles, abbeys, and natural wonders. Dive into Roman history, walk in the footsteps of poets and pilgrims, and explore the wild beauty of the Lake District and the North Sea coast.

Highlights

Day By day

Welcome to Northern England!

Your journey begins as you land in Manchester, a vibrant and historic city that perfectly blends industrial heritage with modern culture. After picking up your family vehicle, it’s time to hit the road and head towards the rolling hills, charming villages, and dramatic coastlines of Northern England. 

Adventure, culture, and natural beauty await—with just the right mix of fun for all ages!

In the Footsteps of the Brontës

Your first stop is the village of Haworth. Step through the doors of the parsonage where the Brontë sisters—Charlotte, Emily, and Anne—and their family lived from 1820. The surrounding moorland immerses avid readers in a truly literary landscape... 

 

After this historical visit, the kids can finally stretch their legs in a beautiful botanical garden run by passionate volunteers. 

Tip: For outdoor activity lovers, consider adding an extra day for a hike at Malham Cove—one of the most photographed natural amphitheatres in the world!

Sip, Soak & Shape in Harrogate

This historic spa town is renowned for its healing mineral waters and elegant Georgian architecture. A visit to the Royal Hall offers a glimpse into the golden age of the 1800s, when Victorian high society flocked here for fresh air and therapeutic treatments. 

And if the parents want to enjoy the mineral water with a splash of local gin, then a tasting workshop is just the thing! 

In the afternoon, let your family’s creativity run wild with a pottery session in a charming town-centre shop. Your creations will be kiln-fired and shipped to your home a few days later.

Majestic Castles & North Sea Breezes

You leave Harrogate behind and head to Castle Howard, a majestic Baroque mansion dating back to the 17th century. It was one of the filming locations for the famous movie adaptation of Wuthering Heights. Both children and adults will be amazed by its grand architecture, lavishly decorated rooms, and sprawling gardens! 

Next stop: Whitby, on the shores of the North Sea. Once a shipbuilding hub and whaling port, this seaside town is now loved for its beaches and atmospheric old town, overlooked by the dramatic ruins of its abbey.

Wander & Wonder in the Yorkshire Moors

You’ll spend the day exploring the North York Moors National Park, a true hiker’s paradise. In spring, wildflowers brighten the trails, while late summer brings vast stretches of blooming heather across the untouched valleys. 

History lovers won’t want to miss Rievaulx Abbey, nestled in a lush green setting—a breathtaking relic of medieval monastic life.

Digging into the North

Want to dive into the social and industrial history of Northern England? 

The Beamish Museum brings daily life from 1820 to 1950 back to life with historical villages, farms, and even a working railway! This open-air museum features live demonstrations of traditional trades—from breadmaking to coal mining. 

Then it’s off to Newcastle upon Tyne, near the Scottish border, where you can boast about crossing six iconic bridges! For a quirky twist, take a tour of the underground tunnels—originally built for coal transport; they later became air-raid shelters during World War II.

Beach Walks & Whisky Tales

Head due north to visit medieval Bamburgh Castle, where over 3,000 years of family history await! Breathe in the sea air on a scenic family walk along the beach, with views of Lindisfarne Island, famous for its monastery. As the cradle of Christianity in northern England, it marks the start of a major pilgrimage in the footsteps of St. Cuthbert. 

After a classic fish & chips lunch, hop on a boat cruise to meet the region’s resident seals and puffins! End the day at Ad Gefrin, a unique spot combining an interactive Anglo-Saxon exhibition with a gin and whisky distillery—your final stop in a journey through Northumbria’s golden age.

Moor Than a Wall: Exploring England’s Frontier

Set out to conquer Hadrian’s Wall, the legendary stone barrier stretching exactly 117 km across the English moorlands, linking the North Sea to the Irish Sea. 

In 122 AD, the Roman emperor Hadrian ordered this defensive system to protect “Britannia” from Scottish invasions. Today a UNESCO World Heritage site, the wall is dotted with forts, watchtowers, and archaeological remains—like the ancient site of Vindolanda—that you can explore at your own pace along the way.

Where Poetry Meets the Peaks

Step into the Lake District, England’s largest and most visited national park and the birthplace of English Romanticism, which inspired poets like William Wordsworth. 

Here, Wordsworth penned some of his most famous works, including “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud”—one of English literature’s best-loved poems, inspired directly by the region’s stunning natural beauty. With its crystal-clear lakes, towering mountains, and lush green valleys, the Lake District offers a perfect setting for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts alike.

Lakeside Leisure

Another day outdoors awaits, featuring a boat cruise on one of the park’s many lakes to fully appreciate its beauty. 

While Windermere is the most famous lake, those seeking a quieter experience should choose a steam boat ride on Ullswater Lake, followed by a family-friendly hike that's easy and enjoyable for all

Faces to the Sea: Crosby’s Iron Guardians

After the mountains, it’s back to the coast… The scenic beach route leads you to the small town of Crosby for a picnic break. 

The beach is home to a striking contemporary artwork: about a hundred identical iron statues scattered along 3 km. Facing the Irish Sea, the artist intended to evoke hope for a better land...

Chester Charm & Retail Time Travel

Enjoy your final day in Chester with a stroll through the “Rows”—a unique set of covered medieval galleries lining the city’s main shopping streets. 

These stunning two-level structures, dating back to the Middle Ages, offer a spectacular view over the bustling streets below. Proof that shopping and architectural sightseeing can go hand in hand! 

 At the end of the day, you return to Manchester to drop off your vehicle

Farewell, for Now

After days filled with castles, coastlines, poetry, puffins, and plenty of fresh air, it’s time to wrap up your Northern escape. . 

From ancient abbeys to steam boats, Roman walls to scenic hikes—this family adventure through the north of England will stay with you long after you've left.

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Our Expertinsight

 Imagine yourself exploring the historic village of Haworth and its romantic landscapes, stepping back into the golden age of spa tourism in Harrogate, walking the ramparts of a medieval castle overlooking the sea—scenery that has inspired some of the greatest filmmakers—visiting the Beamish Museum for an immersive journey through time… and experiencing a region where history and nature blend seamlessly. If you’re looking for an authentic England, far from the crowds and clichés, we have a special invitation just for you!

Emmanuelle, Local Expert

We are

a full-service Tour Operator and our trips generally include:
accommodation, transportation, visits, immersive experiences, personal crafting, unique roadbook creation and assistance on the ground (meals & flights excluded). Please note that this trip price will vary based on factors such as your hotel preferences, your favourite transportation mode, whether you want to take part in shared group activities or private experiences, travel dates, and more. To receive a customized quote for your tailor-made trip, please reach out to us directly.

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