Summer is well underway, and for those of you who aren’t a fan of the scorching sun, it’s time to plan an autumnal get-away.
Take a ‘stay-cation’ with Whytes Coach Tours and explore the UK in a luxury coach, without having to organise a single thing.
Explore the treasures of the Norfolk and visit Sandringham House
The beautiful county of Norfolk is the perfect year round holiday destination, with 90 miles of unspoilt coastline.
You will stay in the historic town of Kings Lynn, a charming town entrenched in its maritime past, is the perfect base for exploring wider Norfolk.
The imposing Dukes Head will be your hotel for the trip, and its striking powder-blue façade is an elegant Georgian treasure.
During the trip you will visit Sandringham House and Gardens, which was once described as the most comfortable house in England. This estate is still regularly used by the Royal Family, and the stunning 60 acres of gardens are full of history.
In addition, enjoy a nostalgic steam train journey on the Mid Norfolk Railway, through the Norfolk countryside and marvel at Holkham Hall, the Palladian style mansion, where you will spend the afternoon. The property was home to the Earls of Leicester for seven generations and is now considered one of the treasure houses of England.
The trip includes: Luxury coach travel, coffee on the first morning, overnight accommodation outward and return in the north of England, 4 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the Duke’s Head, King Lynn, admission to Sandringham House and Gardens, a journey on the mid Norfolk railway, admission to Holkham Hall, and a free day for leisure or adventure in Kings Lynn.
The trip leaves Aberdeen at 8:25am on Wednesday, September 11, with prices from just £640.
Find out more at the Whytes website.
Find adventure in Northern Scotland
On the north-coast of Caithness, Thurso is mainland Scotland’s most northerly town. As a hive of traditional architecture, Thurso is a great place to explore, featuring ruins and ancient streets, many lined with impressive buildings and individual retailers.
Beautiful beaches line the surrounding area, with Thurso Beach being a popular location for watersports, you could see some daring surfers catching waves, or maybe even join them yourself.
Famous in the 19th century for the “silver darlings” herring, you’ll visit Wick, a former Viking settlement with seaside views, beautiful castle ruins and a wide selection of wildlife.
You’ll also travel to John o’ Groats, with its craft shops and stunning views across to the Islands and Canisby Kirk. You can take a picture with the iconic signpost, and admire the nature, with regular visitors including dolphins, seals and whales.
The Castle of Mey, once the property of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, is another stop on the tour. With expansive grounds, the animal centre and gardens full of roses, dahlias and more are great for a day of exploration.
Your accommodation for the trip will be the Royal Hotel, near Thurso’s town centre. The hotel has retained the charm and intimate atmosphere from its days as a Coaching Inn while incorporating modern comforts. The stylish restaurant serves delicious cuisine that includes many traditional favourites. In the evening you can relax in the bar and enjoy the local hospitality.
Included in the cost of the trip is luxury coach travel, morning coffee on first day, three nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast at The Royal Hotel, a programme of excursions and entrance to the Castle of Mey.
The trip leaves Aberdeen at 8:25am on Sunday, September 28, with prices from just £295.
Find out more at the Whytes website.
Enjoy stunning scenery in Pitlochry
Travel to Pitlochry and visit the vibrant Victorian town surrounded by impressive mountain scenery, lochs and incredible buildings.
With prime fishing spots and scenic walks, this is the ideal area for adventure.
This excursion includes a visit to Queens View, one of Scotland’s famous vantage points. It overlooks the banks of Loch Tummel, where you can stop to take in the great outdoors. Have a little break at the tea room and gift shop before moving on to visit Aberfeldy.
Aberfeldy sits along Scotland’s longest river, the River Tay. It is home to the famous Birks of Aberfeldy, made popular by Robert Burns. Explore the walking trail and admire the white waterfalls and ancient trees.
For a more relaxing time, visit Heathergems, a jewellery store selling unusual wares. You can watch as skilled crafts people turn stems of local heather into attractive and unusual jewellery.
During your journey, you will stay at the 3-star Fisher Hotel, situated on the main high street of Pitlochry. With gardens and traditional lounge areas, guests can sit and relax in style. The hotel also features a pub style bar and resident lounge, and serves a range of food and drink.
Included in the price of the trip is luxury coach travel, morning coffee on the first day, 3 nights of dinner, bed and breakfast at the Fishers Hotel, a day’s excursion to Queens View and free time to explore Pitlochry.
The trip leaves Aberdeen at 8:25am on Saturday, September 6, with prices from just £348.
Find out more at the Whytes website.
Become part of your favourite TV shows in Yorkshire
If you’re interested in a more unusual break, you could visit the filming locations of your favourite soaps and sitcoms.
Step into the spotlight and visit the sets for Emmerdale and Last of the Summer Wine. Your outing will be embellished with a knowledgeable guide who can talk you through some of the dramatic scenes that have been shot in the area.
The Emmerdale tour includes a visit to the market town of Otley in Wharfedale, known as Hotten in the soap before continuing to Esholt where some 22 years of filming has taken place.
Your lunch for the day will be hosted at the familiar Woolpack pub, where you will enjoy a cold buffet lunch accompanied by a star from the show!
Your second expedition takes you to Holme Valley, where you can enjoy the scenery of the Last of the Summer Wine, the classic sitcom which is the longest running comedy show on British television.
The tour will take you to Holmfirth, the village where Sid’s Cafe and Nora Batty’s house, reside. Compo Simmonite’s house is now the Last of the Summer Wine Exhibition & Gift Shop, where a small admission charge applies. You will be able to see some of the props used in filming and explore the home viewed by millions.
After exploring the small screen, return to the Cedar Court Hotel in Wakefield. This 4-star hotel encapsulates the warmth and hospitality of Yorkshire, with Restaurant & Bar 85 serving food until late and offering 24-hour room service.
Recently renovated, the hotel offers modern and comfortable bedrooms along with a Health Club and swimming pool.
Included in the cost of your trip: Luxury Coach Travel, morning coffee on the first day, 4 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast at Cedar Court Hotel, a guided excursion to Emmerdale including the chance to meet a star from the current cast of the show, a guided tour of the area used to film Last of the Summer Wine, and high tea on your return journey.
The trip leaves Aberdeen at 8:25am on Tuesday, September 9, with prices from just £430.