Explorer’s Road

Get up close to England’s fascinating history and culture on a trip like no other. Uncover hidden gems and attractions off the beaten track with the Explorer’s Road interactive self-guided itinerary planner. 

The Explorer's Road offers self-drive itineraries along the East Coast of England, from London to Northumberland via the A1 corridor which uncover fascinating stories from England’s past.

For thousands of years the English have travelled from north to south along a 300 miles route through the historic and cultural heart of the country. Now if your chance to tour the Explorer's Road and discover local traditions and eccentricities, breathtaking countryside, and hidden attractions and landmarks known only to local people.

Route Highlights 

Each day you can choose from sightseeing at stately homes and castles, uncovering English history at fascinating and quirky museums, walking and cycling in stunning landscapes or exploring ancient market towns and historic cities. Each evening you can take your pick from traditional coaching inns and cosy bed and breakfasts to pubs with rooms, country house hotels or upmarket city centre properties and enjoy good food served up with a warm welcome.

The route explores the county’s historic towns of Bishop Auckland and Barnard Castle, showcasing world-class attractions including The Bowes Museum, The Auckland Project, Beamish, The Living Museum of the North and Raby Castle.

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