Destinations for 2026
York
This year you will have an opportunity to take in beautiful York, explore the walled city, independent shops and cafes, perhaps call in for a cup of tea in the world-famous Betty’s Tea Rooms.
You could visit the Shambles, it’s one of York’s most famous landmarks and one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe. Today, the beautiful old buildings have been restored and now house cheerful cafés, quirky boutiques and even a coin & stamp dealer. Visit to the Minster, this ancient building has exquisite, handcrafted stone and an unrivalled collection of medieval stained glass.
Or enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the ten-acre botanical Museum Gardens, around the Yorkshire Museum, they stretch from the River Ouse up to the back of Art Gallery, and from Marygate on one side to Museum Street on the other. The gardens are a listed Botanical Garden and contain many varieties of trees, deciduous and evergreen, native.
Whitby
Whitby is an ancient fishing port and boasts connections to Captain Cook and Dracula. It’s quirky narrow streets and bustling harbour, overlooked by the striking Gothic ruins of the Abbey.
You’ll have time to wonder round the harbour, take in the sights and sounds of a working fishing port, this is also where HMS Bark Endeavour is docked, experience what life was like for Captain Cook and his crew in the 1760’s.
After your lunch you can explore the East side of the river Esk, where a wide range of independent shops are situated. The West Cliff is home to the whalebone arch which commemorates the town’s maritime heritage, take a stroll along the West Pier, you can sit and enjoy the amazing views of the Abbey. The RNLI Lifeboat Museum (free entry) celebrates Whitby’s lifeboat history with a treasure trove of memorabilia from famous wrecks and rescues.
Keswick
The heart of this pretty Lakeland town is the Market Square, surrounded by many independent shops, there are no cars allowed in this area which makes for a very pleasant shopping experience.
Hope Park is one of Keswick’s major attractions, positioned between the town and Derwentwater with attractive landscaped gardens, stream and woodland walk, set in magnificent scenery overlooking the fells.
Derwentwater is only a ten-minute walk from the town centre to its west, rise the fells of Cat Bells, and to the east is the fantastic viewpoint of Friar’s Crag, jutting into the lake. You can take a stroll round the lake edge or take a 50-minute cruise round the lake on the Keswick Launch.
Alnwick
Nestled in the heart of Northumberland, Alnwick is a town full of character, heritage, and gentle charm — the perfect destination for a relaxing and enjoyable day trip. Whether you’re a history lover, a keen shopper, or simply someone who enjoys a pleasant stroll, Alnwick offers something for everyone.
Your trip wouldn’t be complete without visiting the town’s vibrant market. Held in the historic Market Square, it’s a wonderful place to browse local produce, handmade crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats.
Why not visit Barter Books, housed in a beautifully restored Victorian railway station, Barter Books is one of the largest second-hand bookshops in the UK — and an absolute treasure. With open fires, comfy seating, and a charming model railway running overhead, it’s a peaceful place to explore or simply relax with a cup of tea.
Northallerton and Thirsk (Dual Destination)
Northallerton offers a relaxed and welcoming setting for a pleasant morning visit, with its long, traditional High Street lined with independent shops, cafés, and local businesses that give the town its friendly character. Visitors can enjoy a gentle stroll past historic buildings or pause for a cup of tea in one of the town’s many cosy spots. With its blend of heritage charm and easy-going atmosphere, Northallerton makes an ideal place to spend a few unhurried hours exploring at your own pace. At 12.00 noon the bus will leave for nearby Thirsk.
Thirsk makes for a wonderful afternoon out, offering that classic North Yorkshire blend of charm and history. The market square is the natural starting point, with independent shops, cafés, and pubs that invite you to wander at an unhurried pace. You can enjoy a visit to the World of James Herriot, set in the former home and surgery of the famous vet author. It’s the kind of place where you can simply stroll and explore a traditional market town.
Tynemouth
Tynemouth boasts a long, level promenade offers easy walking and plenty of places to pause, whether to admire the sea views or enjoy an ice cream in the fresh sea air. The village centre has a friendly, traditional feel, with cafés, tearooms, and small shops clustered around Front Street, making it simple to find a comfortable spot for lunch or a warm drink. The atmosphere is calm but lively enough to feel like a proper day trip destination.
A short stroll brings you to Tynemouth Priory and Castle, perched dramatically above the sea. The surrounding grounds offer sweeping views over King Edward’s Bay and the mouth of the River Tyne. For those who prefer to stay at beach level, the sheltered sands and well kept seating areas make it easy to enjoy the coastline without too much exertion. Altogether, Tynemouth combines history, scenery, and accessibility in a way that makes it especially appealing for senior visitors looking for a pleasant, unhurried day by the sea.
Seaham and Dalton Park (Dual Destination)
Seaham offers a gentle and enjoyable morning by the coast, with wide, accessible promenades and plenty of sea air. The town’s seafront is known for its calm atmosphere, making it easy to take a steady stroll while enjoying views of the rugged cliffs and long stretch of beach. There are several welcoming cafés along the front, ideal for a relaxed tea or light bite while watching the waves. Visitors often enjoy seeing the famous “Tommy” sculpture, which sits peacefully overlooking the sea and provides a thoughtful moment of reflection without requiring a long walk. Altogether, Seaham gives senior visitors a pleasant, unhurried start to the day in a scenic and friendly setting. At 12.30 pm the coach will depart Seaham for Dalton Park.
Dalton Park offers a great afternoon for those who like to shop, with its spacious, level walkways and plenty of places to sit and rest. As an outlet shopping centre, it provides a wide range of familiar brands alongside cafés and restaurants that make it simple to pause for a cuppa or a light meal. The layout is straightforward and well kept, so it’s easy to browse at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Redcar (Short Day)
The town has a traditional charm, with fish and chip shops, cafés, and small independent stores close to the seafront, so it’s simple to find a comfortable spot for lunch or a refreshing drink. The beach itself is wide and open, giving visitors the chance to enjoy the fresh coastal air without needing to walk far.
For those who enjoy a touch of local interest, Redcar’s heritage is never far away. The Redcar Beacon offers panoramic views for anyone who feels up to the short lift ride, while the nearby Zetland Lifeboat Museum provides a fascinating look at maritime history in a compact, accessible setting. The town’s gentle pace, open spaces, and easy access make it a pleasant and manageable destination, offering a relaxed day by the sea with just the right mix of scenery and simple pleasures.
