The Tall Ships & Durham

Following the Norman conquest of 1066, King William found Durham to be an appealing site and realised it offered an ideal strategic location from which to rule Northumbria and defend the region against the Scots. This resulted in one of the most impressive construction projects ever undertaken. The panoramic view of the Cathedral and Castle has been described as ‘one of the finest architectural experiences of Europe' and together they are now designated a World Heritage Site.

Bishops of Durham at that time were given the power to govern the North on the king's behalf and subsequently assumed the title of ‘Prince Bishop'. They were entitled to raise taxes, mint coins, had supreme jurisdiction both civil and military, and for centuries occupied the most powerful position in the region. A thousand years of welcoming pilgrims has given Durham a reputation for hospitality.This is the perfect opportunity to explore the city and discover this exciting city.

In true Travel Whispers style we stay in the brand new, 4 star Radisson Blu Hotel with its fantastic facilities, and a footbridge away over the Wear into the heart Of Durham.We will have lunch in a very popular restaurant in Durham, and in the evening be whisked away to Seaham Hall for a fabulous dinner in our private room at this AA 5 red star property. Seaham Hall was where in 1815, the prolific and controversial poet Lord George Gordon Byron married Annabella Milbanke, daughter of Sir Ralph Milbanke.

Look out for the masts!

Maritime history & tradition, big ships, tales of shipwreck and naval adventure mean we set our compass for Hartlepool. This small but proud maritime town will host the conclusion of the 2010 Tall Ships race. Here we will be able to see square riggers, schooners. brigs, brigantines, ketch's, yawls, cutters & sloops as they birth in the towns docks. As well as the resident HMS Trincomalee - the UK's oldest floating warship.

We will visit Hartlepool for the day and ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy all the vessels which will be easily accessible in the two harbours. We have arranged lunch in the heart of the marina so you can soak in the atmosphere and be close to all the activities. Equally you can join Nelson in Trafalgar, live the legacy of Captain Cook, grapple with the press gang at the Napoleonic seaport attraction, Hartlepool's Maritime Experience or see the oldest floating British warship the HMS Trincomalee. After a full day we return to Durham to enjoy our evening meal in the Filini Restaurant in the Radisson Hotel.

Travel Details

Departs: 9th - 11th Aug 2010 (2 nights/3 days)
Price: £289 per person based on twin share

Booking and Enquiries

For booking enquiries, or to find out more, call us on +44 (1) 664 434 590, or make an enquiry via our contact us page.

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Itinerary

Day 1: Local Pick up

Coach transfer to Radisson Blu Hotel Durham

Lunch in a local restaurant in Durham

Freetime in the afternoon to enjoy Durham, optional visit to the cathedral or castle

Evening transfer to Seaham Hall, Durham for a private dinner in this AA 5 Red Star Property

Day 2: Private coach transfer to Hartlepool to see the Tall Ships

Lunch in a restaurant in the Hartlepool Marina

Rest of the Day at leisure

Evening dinner in the Radisson Filini Restaurant

Day 3: Following breakfast we commence our journey home

What’s Included

Local return coach pick-up/ drop off
Lunch at a local restaurant in Durham including aperitif and a glass of wine with your meal
Return transfer to Seaham Hall, Durham
Evening 3 course dinner with aperitif,canapes, a glass of wine, and coffee in a private room in Seaham Hall
Accommodation at the 4 Star Radisson Blu Hotel including breakast for 2 nights with use of facilities
Return transfer to Hartlepool Marina to see the Tall Ships
Lunch in a local restaurant in the heart of the Marina including aperitif and a glass of wine with your meal
Evening meal with aperitif,and glass of wine at the Filini Restaurant in the Radisson