What an unforgettable four days we enjoyed on our recent Yorkshire tour! Seventy of us set off in high spirits aboard a double-decker coach, bound for Harrogate with a packed itinerary of music, friendship and festive fun. We were wonderfully looked after at the beautiful The Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate — the perfect base for our adventures.
Day One – Harrogate Welcome & A Joyful First Concert
Our tour began in style with our first concert at the Church of St Wilfrid, Harrogate, where we were delighted to perform alongside the local community choir, The Stray Notes. After performing a set each, both choirs performed "Winterlight" and "O Little Town of Bethlehem" together, under the direction of Elmbridge Choir's Musical Director, Hugh Beckwith . The concert was filled with warmth, energy and shared musical spirit, and together we raised an impressive £270 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance — heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported this fantastic cause.
Afterwards, the evening continued back at the hotel bar, where we enjoyed getting to know our new friends from The Stray Notes with their Musical Director, Liz Linford. Laughter, music and plenty of stories flowed — a perfect start to the tour.
Day Two – Rain, York & A Cosy Pub Finale
Saturday brought with it torrential rain as we travelled into York. Undeterred, we made the most of our free time exploring the city, the magnificent York Minster and, of course, warming up with treats from the iconic Betty’s Café Tea Rooms. Some of us braved the Christmas markets and took refuge in the plentiful shops as the streets were heaving with people bustling about in the rain.
Our second concert took place in the afternoon at St Helen’s Church, Stonegate, where we once again enjoyed a warm reception from a wonderful audience. As we left York — still in the rain — we headed for a well-earned dinner at The Plough Inn in Fulford. The cosy atmosphere and delicious meal were the perfect end to a very full day.
Day Three – Sunshine, Splendour & Sparkle
Sunday greeted us with blue skies, glorious winter sunshine and a more relaxed pace. Our first stop was the breathtaking Harewood House, where we marvelled at the stunning Christmas decorations and explored the gorgeous grounds.
From there we travelled on to Fountains Abbey in Ripon, where we truly turned on the Christmas sparkle! Performing in the atmospheric Cellarium, we entertained crowds with festive cheer and lively music — a real highlight of the tour.
That evening back at the hotel, after a couple of hours' rest, it was time for our traditional tour party. A delicious three-course meal was followed by plenty of dancing - and it didn't stop all night, Singing, dancing and laughter carried on into the late hours — a night none of us will easily forget.
Day Four – Farewell to Harrogate
Monday morning arrived with a relaxed and contented vibe. With free time in Harrogate, many enjoyed last-minute shopping, gentle strolling, and — for some — a return visit to Betty’s for more tea and cake - or the obligatory "Fat Rascal"! After lunch we boarded the coach for the journey home, arriving back in Cobham on time, tired but very happy.
A Tour to Remember
This exhilarating Yorkshire tour gave us new friendships, wonderful musical moments, and unforgettable shared experiences. Huge thanks to Jo Porter at Sound Escapes for such a brilliant trip, and to Colin, our fantastic coach driver, who looked after us every mile of the journey.
Although we’ve enjoyed several overseas tours in the past, this UK adventure proved that you don’t have to travel far for something truly special. Yorkshire, and the tour, delivered in every way.
So, the big question is… where shall we go next?
