Our niece is getting married in Northumberland in late October and we have purchased a rail pass for the trip. Our interests are ancient trees and buildings, meeting new people, birding, and good beer. The plan takes us up from London to the Harrogate area and Ripley Castle then off to Berwick upon Tweed for a few days.
After a train ride to Hexham and the wedding, we're planning to travel from Hexham to Windsor. The National Rail website tells us this will be a five and half hour trip with 4 changes. Our question is whether it is possible/advisable to take a couple hours in Newcastle to see a bit of the city? Is there a place to leave our luggage at the train station? Since we have a pass, it seems we could then catch a train to continue our journey.
Any suggestions for places to see or things to do on this itinerary would be most welcome! I have very much appreciated all the information that this forum provides.