The Archaeology & Wildlife of Northumbria
Summary
Saints, Scholars and Norsemen
In an era of warfare, raiders and ruthless kings and religious conflict, northern England occupied a place on an international stage that positioned it alongside the great powers of the continent. The kingdom of Northumbria dominated the north and under the Royal patronage of Kings Edwin, Oswald and Oswiu produced unrivalled cultural achievements in art, architecture, writing and learning. Northumbrian scholars even travelled to the continent and Rome. Its eventual decline at the hands of the Vikings illustrates the profound transformative power of these Norse incursions, reshaping the political and cultural landscape of Britain for centuries to come. Our tour explores the key sites of its Golden Age and includes a trip to Inner Farne, home to remarkable seabird and Atlantic grey seal colonies.
What to Expect
- Explore magnificent Durham Cathedral in its dramatic setting about the River Wear
- Sail to Inner Farne were St. Cuthbert ended his days and see the thriving bird colonies that occupy the island
- Cross the causeway and visit the famous monastery of Lindisfarne where Viking longships once landed
- Discover Escomb Church and Hexham Abbey, two of the oldest sites of Christian worship in the country
