Enchanted Britain: experience the north-east of England and the north-east of Scotland
intro
This autumn, discover an enchanted corner of Britain where cathedrals, castles and manor houses are more than historic landmarks – they are places that bring stories of saints, ancient kings, ghosts and local legends vividly to life. As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, these landscapes become even more atmospheric. From Durham’s grand architecture and Northumberland’s mystical Holy Island to Aberdeenshire’s dramatic castles and Perthshire’s ancient Stone of Destiny, each destination reveals a different chapter in Britain’s mythic past. More than that, they are real places that clients can visit and explore.
What follows is a selection of highlights from the north-east of England and the north-east of Scotland – locations that can be enjoyed as standalone experiences or woven into itineraries, from short breaks to multi-region journeys.
The north-east of England: Durham – Newcastle – Northumberland
Durham Cathedral, Durham, County Durham
Step into Hogwarts at Durham Cathedral. This UNESCO World Heritage Site doubled as the famous wizarding school in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Chamber of Secrets. It also made a cameo in Avengers: Endgame as part of New Asgard. Built in 1093 and considered one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe, it has stood for nearly a thousand years as a place of pilgrimage and legend, associated with the relics of Saint Cuthbert, one of northern England’s most venerated saints. Climb the 325 steps of the central tower for panoramic views – or stay grounded and admire the medieval stained glass, 12th-century tombs, and vaulted ceilings.
Getting there: The nearest major airport to Durham is Newcastle Airport – around 30 minutes by car or just under an hour by train and metro from Durham
The Auckland Project, Durham, County Durham
The Auckland Project is a cluster of attractions centred around Auckland Palace – the former palatial home of the Prince Bishops of Durham, who once ruled this region almost like warrior-princes. After a comprehensive restoration, the palace is now open to the public, revealing its Gothic Revival architecture and centuries of history. Clients can stroll through the Walled Garden, dive into local heritage at the Mining Art Gallery, explore religious storytelling at the Faith Museum, or marvel at masterpieces in the Spanish Gallery – the UK’s first museum dedicated to Spanish art outside London.
Getting there: The nearest major airport to Durham is Newcastle Airport – around 30 minutes by car or just under an hour by train and metro from Durham.
Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, Beamish, County Durham
History comes to life at Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, an open air museum which recreates life in the north-east of England from the 1820s to the 1950s. Set across 350 acres of open countryside, this museum creates a real sense of stepping back in time – a living memory where entire streets, shops and villages have been reconstructed in extraordinary detail. With its cinematic charm and attention to detail, it appeared in Downton Abbey as a fitting backdrop to numerous scenes. Hop aboard a vintage tram or explore recreated villages straight out of a period drama.
Getting there: From Newcastle Airport, it’s a 30-minute drive to Beamish. Alternatively, take the Metro to Newcastle Station and connect to local bus services to the museum. From Durham, it’s around 20 minutes by car.
High Force Hotel, Upper Teesdale, County Durham
Fall asleep to the sound of a roaring waterfall at the historic High Force Hotel. Set beside the spectacular 21-metre-high High Force Waterfall in the heart of the Durham Dales, this characterful retreat features open fireplaces, weathered floorboards and plenty of atmosphere. Following a recent refurbishment, its ten boutique bedrooms have a contemporary feel, with original Victorian details sitting alongside luxurious textiles and modern design. The restaurant showcases the best of Upper Teesdale’s local produce, with a menu inspired by the surrounding countryside. Clients can spend their days exploring scenic walking trails, visiting the nearby market towns of Barnard Castle (24 minutes by car) and Middleton-in-Teesdale (ten minutes by car), or discovering Raby Castle, Park and Gardens just 30 minutes away. At night, relax by the fire or step outside to experience some of England’s darkest skies and finest stargazing.
Getting there: Newcastle Airport is the nearest airport (two hours by car). From there, clients can take a train to Newcastle Station (30 minutes), then continue to either Durham (20 minutes) or Darlington (35 minutes), then continue by taxi to Upper Teesdale (50 to 60 minutes).
Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham
Built in the 14th century and once home to the powerful Neville family, Raby Castle is a medieval stronghold set within 200 acres (80 hectare) of parkland, including lakes, a deer park and an 18th-century walled garden. Its grand interiors have featured on screen in productions such as 1917 and Victoria, adding a touch of cinematic glamour to your clients’ visit. Inside, guests can explore grand rooms filled with outstanding collections of art, textiles and furniture from across England and Europe, spanning the 17th to 21st centuries. Highlights include family portraits, significant works by 18th-century painter Luca Giordano, and an early Meissen collection of decorative birds. According to local legend, the ghost of Lady Elizabeth Vane, wife of the first Baron Barnard of Raby Castle and known as the notorious ‘Old Hell Cat’ for her fiery temper, still stalks the castle battlements.
Getting there: From Durham, it’s a 30-minute drive to Raby Castle, Park and Gardens. The nearest international airport is Newcastle Airport, a one-hour drive away. Alternatively, take a train to Darlington and continue by bus (around 30 minutes). High Force Hotel is a 30-minute drive away.
Victoria Tunnel, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear
Step underground into one of Newcastle’s most atmospheric hidden worlds. The Victoria Tunnel a 19th-century coal wagonway turned WWII air-raid shelter, stretching beneath the city and brought to life on guided tours by the Ouseburn Trust. Expect torch-lit passages, immersive storytelling, and gripping accounts of Victorian industry and wartime survival. Clients will also discover how the tunnel runs beneath major landmarks, including parts of the city centre. Tours depart from the Ouseburn Valley and must be pre-booked.
Getting there: The nearest international airport is Newcastle Airport, with Newcastle city centre just a 30-minute Metro-ride away.
Blackfriars Restaurant, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear
Housed in a 13th-century friary in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, Blackfriars is considered one of England’s oldest purpose-built dining rooms. Its vaulted ceiling, stone walls and timbered interiors create a deeply atmospheric backdrop for cosy meals, from multi-course banquets to afternoon tea. The building’s monastic past adds a true sense of history, giving clients a taste of medieval life. Alongside dining, Blackfriars hosts a programme of seasonal events and cookery workshops – from ‘Medieval Cooking Masterclasses’ to ‘Bread Making for Beginners’.
Getting there: The nearest international airport is Newcastle Airport, with Newcastle city centre just a 30-minute Metro-ride away.
Old Newcastle Walking Tour, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear
Step into Newcastle’s rich past on this costumed guided walking tour. From the Roman origins of Pons Aelius to medieval strongholds, Civil War stories and Georgian architecture, the route reveals how centuries of history have shaped the modern city. Guides bring the past vividly to life with tales of battles, legends and of the people who shaped Newcastle’s identity. The tour winds from the castle precinct past the Black Gate and Castle Keep, along Grey Street and through Grainger Town. Entry to Newcastle Castle is included. Tours run on selected dates between March and October. Pre-booking is essential.
Getting there: The nearest international airport is Newcastle Airport, with Newcastle city centre just a 30-minute Metro-ride away.
Ad Gefrin Anglo Saxon Museum and Distillery, Wooler, Northumberland
New on the scene but steeped in Northumbrian history, Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Distillery in Wooler blends heritage storytelling with contemporary whisky-making. Opened in 2023 and inspired by the nearby royal palace of the Anglo-Saxon kings at Yeavering, the experience takes visitors on a journey back in time through immersive galleries that recreate the world of royal feasts and daily life in early medieval Northumbria. The museum leads into the distillery, where clients can explore state-of-the-art whiskey and gin production on a guided tour and tasting.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Newcastle Airport, approximately one hour and 15 minutes by car (around 50 miles / 80 km) from Wooler. From Newcastle, clients can also travel by train to Berwick-upon-Tweed (around 50 minutes), followed by a 30-minute taxi transfer.
Lindisfarne (Holy Island), Northumberland
Also known as Holy Island, this tidal isle was the haunting setting for 28 Weeks Later. Accessible only at low tide (please check the safe crossing times), the island is mysterious and cinematic. The atmospheric ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, founded in the 7th century, and surrounding landscape have been associated with early saints, particularly Saint Cuthbert, whose legacy helped shape northern Christianity. Operated by English Heritage, the site includes a museum charting the priory’s history and that of the Lindisfarne Gospels. For an immersive experience, join a guided boat tour that explores the Farne Islands before arriving at Lindisfarne.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Newcastle Airport, approximately one hour 20 minutes by car (around 60 miles / 95 km) from Lindisfarne. Clients should check safe crossing times before travelling, as the island is accessible only via a tidal causeway at low tide. Alternatively, take a train from Newcastle to Berwick-upon-Tweed (around 50 minutes), followed by a 20-minute taxi transfer to the causeway.
Chillingham Castle, Gardens and Lake, Northumberland
Chillingham Castle, Gardens and Lake is a 13th-century fortress with grand state rooms, idyllic grounds and a reputation as one of England’s most haunted castles. Centuries of ghost stories and reported paranormal sightings make it a spine-tingling destination for clients drawn to the supernatural. Inside, explore a labyrinth of medieval rooms and spaces, from richly furnished state rooms and armour displays to dark dungeons and a torture chamber. Highlights include the Great Hall, Edward I Room, King James I Room and the chapel, alongside collections of weapons, artefacts and curiosities. Outside, clients can explore the formal gardens created by Sir Jeffry Wyatville, who designed the gardens at Windsor Palace, wander along woodland walks and past the quiet lake. Guided and evening ghost tours bring the castle’s eerie stories to life.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Newcastle Airport, approximately one hour and 40 minutes by car (around 55 to 65 miles / 90 to 105 km) from Chillingham Castle. Public transport is limited, so a private transfer or car hire is recommended.
Alnwick Castle, Alnwick, Northumberland
films. The Outer Bailey saw Harry experience his first flying lesson, while the Inner Bailey provided the setting for the infamous Whomping Willow scene when Ron and Harry crash-land the Weasley’s flying car. Visitors can immerse themselves in the magic of the films by participating in broomstick training, exploring the beautiful gardens, and taking guided tours that delve into the castle’s rich history and its role in various films.
Getting around: The nearest main airports to Alnwick are Newcastle Airport (40 minutes by car) or Edinburgh Aiport (two hours by car).
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland
Go on a journey through seven centuries of history at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, comprising a medieval castle, a striking Greek Revival mansion and 30 acres of gardens. Managed by English Heritage, clients can wander through the atmospheric Quarry Garden, explore the elegant Grecian-style interiors of the Hall, and climb the tower of the medieval castle for sweeping views over the Northumberland countryside. Seasonal events and exhibitions add even more reasons to linger.
Getting there: Belsay Hall and Gardens is a 50-minute drive from Durham and 20 minutes from Newcastle upon Tyne. The nearest international airport is Newcastle Airport (20 minutes by car).
information for the travel trade
Information for the Travel Trade
To weave this into an itinerary, the nearest major hub is Newcastle Airport, providing the most convenient gateway to the region. From there, it is approximately 30 minutes (25 miles / 40 km) to Durham, then around 45 minutes (30 miles / 48 km) from Durham to Newcastle, and a further one to two hours (around 40 to 70 miles / 65 to 110 km) north into Northumberland, depending on the destination.
This is Durham:https://www.thisisdurham.com/
Visit North East England:https://www.visitnortheastengland.com/places/newcastle/
Visit Newcastle:https://www.visitnewcastle.co.uk/
Visit Northumberland: https://www.visitnorthumberland.org.uk/
The north-east of Scotland: Perthshire – Aberdeenshire
Perth Museum, Perth, Perthshire
See one of Scotland’s most legendary treasures up close: the Stone of Destiny, returned to Perth in 2024. This ancient coronation stone, used for the crowning of Scottish monarchs for centuries, is the centre piece of the Perth Museum. Housed in an Edwardian building, the museum is also home to rare Pictish stones, Jacobite relics and Roman artefacts which tell the story of Perth and its role at the heart of Scottish royal and political life. Interactive exhibits, temporary exhibitions, and events bring history to life and give clients a chance to dive deeper into local history.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately one hour and 15 minutes by car (around 40 miles / 65 km) from Perth. From Edinburgh, direct trains to Perth (around 1 to 1.5 hours) run regularly from Edinburgh Waverley.
Drummond Castle, Crieff, near Perth, Perthshire
Clients can lose themselves in one of Scotland’s finest formal green spaces at Drummond Castle Gardens, a 30-minute drive west of Perth. Landscaped 17th-century parterres with symmetrically pruned hedges and shrubs create a stunning kaleidoscope of patterns. Outlander fans will recognise it as the gardens of Versailles from Season 2. Don’t miss the panoramic view across Perthshire from the upper terrace. To make the most of a visit, your clients can stay in one of the cosy holiday cottages on the estate, which includes full unlimited access to the gardens.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately one hour and 20 minutes by car (around 50 miles / 80 km) from Drummond Castle Gardens near Crieff. From Edinburgh, clients can also take a train to Gleneagles or Perth (around 1 to 1.5 hours), followed by a 20-to-40-minute taxi transfer.
Scone Palace, near Perth, Perthshire
Walk in the footsteps of royalty at Scone Palace, a 10-minute drive from Perth, where Scottish kings were once crowned on the Stone of Destiny, which gave Perth its importance in medieval times. Now the home to the Earls of Mansfield, clients can explore the stately rooms housing collections of furniture, porcelain and paintings, or take a guided tour for a behind-the-scenes look into the history of this place. Outside, the grounds feature a pinetum, a star-shaped maze and peacocks roaming freely. Special events throughout the year include dog shows, and vintage car rallies.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately one hour and 15 minutes by car (around 40 miles / 65 km) from Scone Palace. From Edinburgh, direct trains to Perth (around 1 to1.5 hours) are frequent, followed by a 10-to-15-minute taxi transfer to the palace grounds just outside the city.
The Black Watch, Balhousie Castle, Perth, Perthshire
Explore centuries of military history at Balhousie Castle, home of the Black Watch regiment – originally formed in the early 18th century to watch over the Scottish Highlands and keep the peace after the Jacobite Risings. Inside, clients can discover more than 300 years of stories, from battles in Fontenoy, Belgium, in 1745 to campaigns in World Wars I and II. Original uniforms, medals and weaponry are displayed alongside personal letters from soldiers. The on-site bistro offers tea and scones.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately one hour and 15 minutes by car (around 40 miles / 65 km) from Perth. From Edinburgh, direct trains to Perth (around 1 to 1.5 hours) run regularly from Edinburgh Waverley.
Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
Climb up to the ruins of Dunnottar Castle situated on a 160-foot (50-metre) rock above the North Sea. Once a stronghold of the Earls Marischal, one of Scotland’s most powerful families, this medieval fortress has witnessed Viking raids, English invasions, and Jacobite uprisings. In the 1650s, it sheltered the Honours of Scotland – the nation’s Crown Jewels – from Oliver Cromwell’s troops, preserving them for the monarchy. Its rugged silhouette inspired the castle in Disney’s Brave and also featured in I, Frankenstein (2014). The walk up rewards clients with sweeping views across the North Sea, with the added drama of the waves crashing below.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately two hours and 15 minutes by car (around 100 miles / 160 km) from Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven. From Edinburgh, clients can also take a direct train to Stonehaven (around 2.5 to 3 hours), followed by a five-to-minute taxi ride.
Craigievar Castle, Alford, Aberdeenshire
Step into a fairytale at Craigievar Castle , a pink turreted tower house said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Built in the 16th-century by the Forbes family and completed in the 1620s, its interiors are filled with armour, art and family treasures from when it was a lived-in home until the 1960s. Set on a hillside, the castle is surrounded by woodland trails which allow 360-degree views of the pink castle. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, access to the castle is via guided tour only.
Getting there: From Edinburgh Airport, Craigievar Castle is around a three-hour drive. Alternatively, take a train from Edinburgh Waverley station to Aberdeen, then it’s a 40-minute taxi journey to the castle.
Castle Fraser Garden and Estate, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire
Step back in time at Castle Fraser, a 15th-century baronial tower house that feels straight out of a storybook. Used as a filming location for The Queen, the castle invites clients to walk through history – several rooms reflect different centuries, from the medieval Great Hall to the elegant Georgian dining room, and the Victorian bedrooms. Inside, marvel at antiques, family portraits, trap doors, secret staircases, and even the Laird’s Lug – a hidden spy hole used to watch guests in the Great Hall. Outside, the walled garden brims with herbaceous borders, as well as fruits and vegetables which are used in the courtyard café. Keep an eye out for highland cattle and red squirrels along the trails – and ghosts in the tower, if the stories are to be believed…
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately two hours and 45 minutes by car (around 130 miles / 210 km) from Castle Fraser Garden and Estate. From Edinburgh, clients can also take a direct train to Aberdeen (around 2.5 to 3.5 hours), followed by a 30-to-40-minute taxi or car transfer to the estate near Inverurie.
Mar Lodge Estate, Aberdeeshire
Discover the wilderness of Mar Lodge Estate, Britain’s largest National Nature Reserve in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, and a filming location for The Dark Knight Rises. The Victorian hunting lodge sits within an ancient Caledonian pine forest and a landscape associated with Highland folklore. According to local legends, it is inhabited by the Grey Man of the Cairngorms, a spectral figure said to appear in the mountains around Ben Macdui, Britain’s second highest mountain. Apart from ghostly apparitions, keep an eye out for red deer, red squirrels, golden eagles and black grouse. The estate’s Stag Ballroom, with its display of thousands of stag antlers, is a memorable piece of Highland sporting history.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately two and a half hours by car (around 120 miles / 190 km) from Mar Lodge Estate in the Cairngorms National Park. From Edinburgh, clients can also take a train to Aberdeen or to nearby stations such as Blair Atholl (around 2.5 hours), followed by a 45-to-60-minute taxi transfer into the heart of the estate near Braemar.
The Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
Set in Aberdeen’s west end, The Gordon Highlanders Museumbrings to life the 200-year story of the Gordon Highlanders, one of the British Army’s most storied regiments. Housed in the former home of artist Sir George Reid, it draws on a nationally significant collection to trace the lives of men from across the north-east of Scotland, including farmers and fishermen. Highlights include original Victoria crosses, a WW1 Replica Trench, an extensive armoury, regimental silver, an authentic officers mess and memorial gardens.
Getting there: The nearest major international airport is Edinburgh Airport, approximately two hours 30 minutes by car (around 130 miles / 210 km) from The Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen. From Edinburgh, clients can also take a direct train to Aberdeen (around 2.5–3 hours).
Maryculter House Hotel, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
Set on the banks of the River Dee just outside Aberdeen, Maryculter House stands on a site founded by the Knights Templar in 1225. The baronial mansion turned luxury hotel overlooking Peterculter Golf Course offers 40 modern bedrooms with views across the grounds which include a chapel ruin and an ancient burial site. The restaurant serves Scottish produce, while the six-acre grounds along the River Dee provide walking paths and landscaped gardens. Dating back to 1460, the Great Hall is the oldest part of the hotel, with exposed brickwork and an original fireplace.
Getting there: From Edinburgh Airport, Maryculter House is around two hours 30 minutes by car. By train, travel from Edinburgh Waverley to Aberdeen, then it’s a 20-minute taxi ride to the hotel.
Information for the Travel Trade
Information for the Travel Trade
To weave this into an itinerary, the nearest major international gateway is Edinburgh Airport, with the most convenient access to both Perthshire and Aberdeenshire. From Edinburgh, it is around one to two hours (40 to 65 miles / 65 to 105 km) to Perthshire, including Perth, Scone Palace and Drummond Castle, before continuing north for around two to three hours (100 to 130 miles / 160 to 210 km) into Aberdeenshire, depending on the destination.
Visit Scotland - Castles:https://www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/attractions/castles
Visit Aberdeenshire: https://visitabdn.com/
Visit Scotland – Perthshire:https://www.visitscotland.com/places-to-go/perthshire
