North Pennines Adventure

Event Itinerary

Prepare for a thrilling Sunday drive filled with historic sights, stunning landscapes, and the roar of vintage aircraft, all set in the heart of Northern England. This day-long adventure will take you from the quaint town of Penrith, through the rugged beauty of the Pennines, and into the dramatic vistas of Buttertubs Pass. Each stop is thoughtfully chosen to enhance your experience, culminating in a breathtaking drive that promises to be the highlight of your weekend.

Morning Journey

• Start at Rheged Services Begin your morning at Rheged Services, known for its unique design and local amenities. Grab a quick coffee and snack here to energize for the exciting day ahead.

• Drive to Alston via Penrith Head out from Rheged Services towards Penrith, and then continue on the road to Alston. This route is renowned for its scenic beauty, with sweeping views of the North Pennines, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The drive to Alston is one of the highest market towns in England and offers dramatic landscapes and a sense of remoteness that adds to its charm.

Mid-Morning Exploration

• Solway Aviation Museum Make a brief stop at the Solway Aviation Museum, located at Carlisle Airport. Here, you’ll have the chance to capture stunning photographs with the iconic Vulcan Bomber, a piece of Cold War aviation history. The museum is a treasure trove of aircraft and exhibits that tell the story of aviation development in the UK.

On to Lunch!

• We will continue our morning drive up towards our historic lunch venue.  There will be no Sunday Roast menu today, as the venue are booked with weddings during this season, but they do have an amazing selection on their relaxed dining menu to whet your appetite.  Budget around £40 for lunch per head from this iconic venue.  Set in a 14th-century building offering a mix of medieval grandeur and modern comfort. Lunch here is not just a meal; it’s an experience, with the venue's impressive architecture and beautiful grounds serving as a perfect backdrop for some amazing photographs.

Afternoon Drive

• Through the Pennines After lunch, your route will take you through the heart of the Pennines. This area is characterized by its rugged terrain and beautiful, untouched landscapes, making it a perfect setting for a leisurely drive.

• Buttertubs Pass The finale of your drive is the spectacular Buttertubs Pass. Named for the deep limestone potholes ("buttertubs") that line it, the pass is famed for its steep roads and breathtaking views over the Yorkshire Dales. This thrilling drive offers a fitting and memorable end to your weekend of adventure.

• Conclusion near Ingleton Say your goodbyes near Ingleton, a charming village known for its beautiful waterfalls and scenic walks. This location provides a tranquil setting to reflect on the weekend’s adventures before everyone heads home.

Optional Hotel Stay

We have an optional hotel stay on the Saturday Night if you are don't wish to set off from home early on the Sunday.  If you are coming on our Saturday drive, then you can either book the hotel from that event or from this event, but plelase ensure you don't book the hotel stay on both events!

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Tips for the Drive

• Prepare for Varied Weather: The Pennines and Yorkshire Dales can experience quick weather changes, so bring appropriate clothing and check the forecast.
• Camera Ready: With so many photo opportunities, from historical sites to natural wonders, keep your camera handy.
• Bring Your Radio: To help communicate with the other cars during the drives.

Final Thoughts

This driving adventure through Northern England's historical sites and stunning landscapes promises to be both exhilarating and reflective. From the roar of the Vulcan Bomber to the serene beauty of Buttertubs Pass, each element of the journey is designed to offer a unique and engaging experience. Enjoy your drive!