Hello all. Planning a trip for next fall to York (decided on Grange Hotel), Hadrian's Wall and Northumberland. In Northumberland we want to stay in Alnwick at the White Swan---anyone been there? Near Hadrian's Wall want to stay near Hexham. Love what I read about Langley Castle Hotel, but a friend says he thinks it's one of those medieval banquet places. Anyone with firsthand knowledge?? Want medium sized (about 20 rooms) all conveniences but preferably less than $150/night B&B. Also, what is the best way to reach West Sussex (to visit friends) after arrival at Heathrow? They have volunteered to pick us up at Gatwick, but we would need to get there from Heathrow (only alternative for us) Many thanks.

I just returned from a trip to Edinburgh. We drove to Hadrian's Wall and happened on a lovely, country hotel in Chollerford called the Swallow George Hotel. We had tea and sandwiches there and it was a really delightful place. I mentoned it to a Scottish friend who told me that he and his wife often go there for a weekend break. Apparently the hotel has a reputation for good food. It is close to Chesters Fort and Housesteads on the Roman wall. You can check it out on the Swallow Hotels web site - www.swallowhotels.com <BR>Good luck.

I can strongly recommend Ashcroft B&B in Haltwhistle near Hadrian's Wall. If you want a good 10 km walk along the wall, start west from Houseteads and walk until you come to a big tree right in the middle of the wall, then walk back.

Hey there Kam, <BR> <BR>It's a great area up there - hope the weather is good! Be sure to spend half a day at Alnwick Castle: dungeons, stately halls, the whole works and you get free run of the place. <BR> <BR>BTW it's pronounced 'Ann-ick' (emph on 1st syllable) - don't say the l or the w! <BR> <BR>While you're there don't miss the Northumbrian coast. Seahouses (little village, have fish & chips staring out into the North Sea) and Holy Isle are truly spectacular on a sunny day. <BR> <BR>Have fun!

all advice so far good. Shuttle buses run between the two airports, I believe, for those connecting flights. Far better than venturing into the centre of London. Check the airports through their own web sites; you probably don't need to book, but wht not get your sussex friends to do that for you? It would set your mind at rest.

Thanks everyone. The Swallow George looks wonderful. Thinking seriously of booking it, but still wondering about the Langley Castle.

Hi Kam
Its been nearly one year since you talked about your trip to the Wall...how did it go? Did it meet your expectations? We live up in Wall country and are always interested to hear feed back.

Actually, it's been nearly eight years since kam planned the trip.

"<i>Actually, it's been nearly eight years since kam planned the trip.</i>"

Actually 9 years ago (well, as of next Thurs its 9 years) . . .

Mike, I notice you also topped another really old thread today. Those folks aren't still looking for info nor even still around

This is one of my top ten future vacations - Northumberland, including walking Hadrian's Wall, visiting Lindisfarne, Bamburgh and Alnwick Castles and staying at Langley Castle hotel. Perhaps in 2013?

"This is one of my top ten future vacations . . ."

And a fine destination it is. You would be better served, however, by posting a new thread tuned to your interests. And maybe closer to the date of travel.