Discover Northumberland’s Hidden Gems with the Vera TV Locations Tour
If you’re a fan of the British crime drama Vera, this full-day tour offers a wonderful way to combine your love for the show with an exploration of Northumberland’s scenic coastal towns and historic sites. Starting at just under $113 per person, the tour lasts about eight hours — perfect for a leisurely day out — and takes you through iconic filming locations like Lindisfarne (Holy Island), Hadrian’s Wall, and charming seaside villages such as Amble, Alnmouth, and Bamburgh.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances TV trivia with regional history and breathtaking scenery. The guides, often described as knowledgeable and engaging, bring the region alive with fascinating facts about both the filming and the area’s past. The comfortable, climate-controlled bus ensures you can relax and enjoy the ride without worrying about weather or fatigue.
One thing to consider is that this tour is primarily a bus-based experience that highlights key locations rather than in-depth visits of every site. If you’re expecting to step inside every filming site or get extensive time at each stop, you might find the schedule a bit brisk. Still, it’s well-suited for those who want a rundown with plenty of photo opportunities and interesting commentary.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy TV series—especially Vera—as well as those who love beautiful coastlines, ancient ruins, and friendly villages. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for a low-stress, well-organized day that packs in plenty of sights with expert guides leading the way.
Key Points
- Comfortable transport in a climate-controlled vehicle makes for a relaxed journey.
- Expert guides provide a balance of TV trivia, historical insights, and regional stories.
- The itinerary balances scenery, history, and TV filming locations, appealing to a variety of interests.
- The cost offers good value for a full day of sightseeing, especially given the small group sizes.
- The tour is moderately paced, suitable for travelers with average mobility.
- Holy Island and Hadrian’s Wall are highlights, offering iconic Northumberland vistas and history.
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A Detailed Look at What You’ll Experience
Starting Point and Overall Logistics
The tour begins in Newcastle at a conveniently located meeting point near Newcastle Central Station. With a start time of 9:00 am, it’s easy to fit into a travel itinerary. The group remains small—up to 30 travelers—which enhances the chance to ask questions and receive personalized commentary.
The air-conditioned vehicle keeps everyone comfortable, regardless of the weather. Given the approximately eight-hour duration, expect to spend a good chunk of your day on the road, punctuated by stops at key locations.
Holy Island (Lindisfarne)
Your first stop is Holy Island, accessible via a causeway that’s quite the spectacle itself. Cross the tidal causeway, which is only accessible at certain times, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Lindisfarne. This is where Vera’s fictional home on the show is set, and many fans find it especially charming.
While the visit lasts about an hour and is admission-free, the real value is in absorbing the scenery, capturing photos of the picturesque ruins, and imagining the scenes shot here. According to reviews, the Holy Island segment is “magical,” adding a sense of wonder to the day.
Hadrian’s Wall
Next, you’ll visit Hadrian’s Wall, the Roman empire’s northern frontier, which also features in some Vera episodes. The wall’s sprawling remains and scenic landscapes offer a tangible connection to history and film. The stop here lasts about an hour and is free to visit.
Many travelers comment that seeing the ancient Roman ruins alongside the Northumberland scenery is a highlight, providing both educational value and memorable views. Guides share fun facts about the wall’s history, making the experience engaging for all ages.
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Coastal Villages and Seaside Towns
The tour also includes visits to charming villages like Amble, Alnmouth, and Bamburgh. These locations provide a chance to stroll along beaches, browse local shops, or simply enjoy the coastal ambiance. One reviewer noted how the “beautiful countryside, small villages, and seaside towns” made the day worthwhile—even for non-Vera fans.
While the primary focus is on Vera-related sites, many appreciate the scenic drives and the opportunity to see what makes Northumberland so special. The photo opportunities here are plentiful, especially with historic castles and rugged coastlines as backdrops.
Additional Notes on the Experience
The tour’s reviews reflect a generally high level of satisfaction, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 48 travelers. Many praise the knowledgeable guides—notably Fran and Amanda—whose entertaining commentary makes the day lively and informative.
Some travelers express slight disappointment if they expected more filming site visits. As one reviewer pointed out, the tour is mostly a bus tour with TV clips, which might be less engaging for those hoping to get inside Vera’s house or see extensive filming locations.
Nonetheless, many others loved the balance of scenery, history, and TV lore, calling it a “great day” and “interesting” experience for Vera fans and casual travelers alike.
Price and Value
At around $113, this tour offers a reasonable price for a full-day guided excursion with small group sizes, expert commentary, and multiple iconic stops. The inclusion of Holy Island and Hadrian’s Wall—both high-profile Northumberland sites—adds to the overall value.
You should also consider that the tour is designed for convenience and ease, with no need to worry about driving or navigation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The focus on comfortable transport and engaging storytelling makes it a good choice for a relaxed, yet comprehensive, day out.
Who Will Love This Tour?
Travelers who are Vera fans will find this tour especially appealing, as they get to visit the filming locations and hear behind-the-scenes stories. However, it’s also perfect for those who appreciate scenic coastlines, ancient history, and charming villages, even if they aren’t TV buffs.
It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness—the stops are manageable, with some walking involved. If you’re seeking an easy, well-organized day that combines sightseeing and storytelling without tedious planning, this tour hits the mark.
The Sum Up
This Vera TV Locations Tour offers a well-paced, scenic exploration of Northumberland’s coast, castles, and Roman ruins, enriched by engaging guides and fascinating TV trivia. It’s a great way to see the highlights of this beautiful region without the hassle of self-driving or trying to piece together multiple visits.
The experience shines brightest for TV fans eager to see the filming locations come to life, but it also caters to anyone interested in history, seaside scenery, and small-town charm. The small-group format, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guides make it a value-packed way to enjoy a full day in Northumberland.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative day that combines regional beauty with a touch of TV magic, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially ideal if you want to tick off some iconic Northumberland sites with a friendly guide leading the way.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. It involves some walking at stops like Holy Island and Hadrian’s Wall, but overall it’s manageable for most.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, stops, and sightseeing. It begins at 9:00 am and returns to the original meeting point in Newcastle.
What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and guided commentary about the TV locations, history, and region. Entrance fees to sites are free.
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Gratuities are not included but are optional. You might also want to bring some money for souvenirs or refreshments in the villages.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.
Will I see inside the Vera filming locations?
No, the tour primarily offers exterior views and clips of the locations used in the show, not inside access to private homes or studios.
This Northumberland tour offers a delightful blend of scenery, history, and TV lore, making it a memorable day for a variety of travelers eager to explore this captivating corner of England.