Luxury Meets Nature: A 7-Day Family Itinerary Through the Tees Valley

A week in Tees Valley offers more than just a holiday — it’s a journey through time, nature, and creativity. With its luxurious stays, welcoming communities, and mix of coast and countryside, this North-East gem invites you to slow down and rediscover Britain’s beauty, one day at a time.

Tees Valley – Where anything is possible.

Located in the North East of England, Tees Valley brings together five distinctive boroughs — Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees — into one captivating region that blends coast, countryside, and creativity. From rugged heritage to relaxing luxury, it’s a place where families and couples alike can slow down, reconnect, and discover something new every day.

Where to Stay: Luxurious Comfort in Nature

Begin your Tees Valley adventure with a touch of indulgence. Nestled by Hurworth Burn Reservoir, Sandpiper Lodge at Rest at the Nest offers serene privacy, open-plan living, and a private hot tub overlooking tranquil water. Expect bird calls at dawn and starlit skies at night — the ideal base for unwinding between days of exploration.

For a stay steeped in history, Walworth Castle Hotel in Darlington lets you sleep like royalty in a genuine 12th-century fortress once visited by King James I. Or choose Hardwick Hall Hotel, surrounded by 120 acres of English parkland and known for its grand interiors and fine dining — a perfect countryside retreat. Prefer coastal air? Abbey Hill Cottages provide luxurious sea-view lodges just minutes from the beach.

Day 1 – Heritage and Gardens in Redcar & Cleveland

• Morning: Kirkleatham Museum & Walled Garden - Step into the past at Kirkleatham Museum, a Queen Anne building filled with local treasures, from industrial heritage to the famous Saxon Princess Exhibition. Afterwards, stroll through the Kirkleatham Walled Garden, a beautifully restored 17th-century space alive with colour and calm — ideal for families or quiet reflection.

• Afternoon: Hummersea Coast Walk - Head north of Loftus for the breathtaking Hummersea coastline. This hidden gem reveals sweeping sea views and dramatic cliffs — perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Day 2 – Art and Innovation in Middlesbrough

• Morning: Dorman Museum & Saabat Gallery - Begin with a visit to Dorman Museum, home to fascinating natural history and decorative arts collections. Then stop at Saabat Gallery in South Bank to experience contemporary creativity in an inclusive, community-driven space.

• Afternoon: Temenos, Transporter Bridge & Riverside Stadium - In the afternoon, stroll along the River Tees to admire Temenos, the striking steel sculpture by Anish Kapoor that celebrates Middlesbrough’s industrial spirit. Nearby stands the Tees Transporter Bridge, the town’s most iconic landmark — take the lift to the upper walkway for sweeping views across the valley. Finish with a visit to Riverside Stadium, home of Middlesbrough FC. A behind-the-scenes tour gives families and football fans a taste of the town’s passion and pride, rounding off a day that perfectly combines art, history, and heart.

Day 3 – Country Life and Family Fun

• Morning: Newham Grange Farm - A delight for families, Newham Grange Farm combines hands-on animal experiences with a play park, café, and nature trails. Meet friendly alpacas, goats, and donkeys in this safe, engaging setting.

• Afternoon: Stewart Park and the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum - Just a short drive away, Stewart Park blends open parkland and woodland walks with a touch of history at the Captain Cook Museum, located where the famous explorer was born.

Day 4 – Castles and Waterfalls

• Morning: Raby Castle, Park and Gardens - Discover one of England’s most magnificent intact castles. Built in the 14th century by the powerful Nevilles, Raby Castle combines grandeur and family heritage. Children will love spotting deer in the park, while adults will admire the art and architecture.

• Afternoon: High Force Waterfall - Continue the adventure to High Force, where the River Tees plunges dramatically into a deep gorge. This awe-inspiring natural wonder makes a stunning end to the day — and unforgettable family photos.

Day 5 – Coastal Culture and Maritime History

• Morning: Zetland Lifeboat Museum, Redcar - At Zetland Lifeboat Museum, see the world’s oldest surviving lifeboat and learn about the region’s maritime heroes. It’s a fascinating, family-friendly glimpse into Tees Valley’s seafaring past.

• Afternoon: National Museum of the Royal Navy, Hartlepool - Step back in time along an 1800s quayside and explore naval life through immersive exhibits and historic ships. Kids will love the interactive displays, while adults can soak in centuries of naval tradition.

Day 6 – Countryside Charm and Local Shopping

• Morning: Alpaca Walking, Leven Valley - Meet the region’s most endearing residents with a walk at Alpaca Alpaca near Yarm. This relaxing outdoor experience lets you stroll through the countryside with these gentle, inquisitive animals — a hit for families and couples alike.

• Afternoon: Yarm High Street - Spend the afternoon exploring Yarm’s award-winning high street, lined with independent boutiques, artisan cafés, and fine dining spots.

Day 7 – Adventures and Air Views

• Morning: Tees Heritage Park Cycling - Cycle or walk through the Tees Heritage Park, following scenic riverside trails that connect Stockton and Yarm. For something different, hop on a Teesside Princess riverboat and enjoy the view from the water.

• Afternoon: Scenic Air Tour - End your week with a sky-high perspective. Take to the air with Aeroschool Air Tours for a breathtaking flight over the Tees Valley — an unforgettable finale to your adventure.

Shopping in Style: Local Craft and Design

No visit to the Tees Valley is complete without a little retail indulgence. The region’s independent designers and makers capture the area’s creativity and craftsmanship beautifully — perfect for taking a piece of the North East home with you.

• Geoff Crust Furniture, Stockton-on-Tees - For something timeless for your home, visit this family-run business creating handcrafted furniture and bespoke homeware. Each piece is lovingly made using sustainable materials, blending modern design with traditional craftsmanship. It’s the ideal stop for those who appreciate artistry, quality, and authenticity — a true reflection of Tees Valley’s creative spirit.

The Perfect Ending: Tees Valley’s Timeless Appeal

A week in Tees Valley offers more than just a holiday — it’s a journey through time, nature, and creativity. With its luxurious stays, welcoming communities, and mix of coast and countryside, this North-East gem invites you to slow down and rediscover Britain’s beauty, one day at a time.

Whether you’re sipping coffee on Yarm High Street, exploring ancient castles, or watching the sunset over the Tees, Tees Valley proves that the best of England is still waiting to be explored.

Getting There: Easy Access to Tees Valley

Reaching Tees Valley is simple, wherever you’re travelling from. The region is well connected by air, road, and rail, making it ideal for both weekend breaks and longer escapes. The nearest airport is Teesside International Airport (MME), located between Darlington and Stockton-on-Tees, with regular flights from London Heathrow, Amsterdam, and other UK and European hubs.

This itinerary is most conveniently experienced by car. Vehicle hire is available directly at the airport, with major providers such as Enterprise, Avis, and Hertz offering convenient on-site services.

Tees Valley sits just off the A1(M) and A19, around five hours’ drive from London, two hours from Manchester, and just over an hour from Newcastle. The surrounding road network makes exploring the coast and countryside both easy and scenic.

Discover more: teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/visit

---

Amazing Britain is the ultimate online magazine celebrating the very best Britain offers to discerning visitors. Showcasing food, fashion, art, interiors, hotels, drinks, and more, we fly the flag globally for British creativity, craftsmanship, and culture — uncovering hidden gems and iconic experiences that make the UK truly one of a kind. For more stories celebrating Britain’s most inspiring creatives, keep exploring at AmazingBritain.com