Delve into the some of the hidden treasures of County Durham in the company of Nicholas Merchant, an expert lecturer on Decorative and Fine Arts. Set in picturesque countryside, this quiet corner of northern England is home to a collection of lesser known, yet equally fascinating, country houses and historical buildings packed with fine furnishings and fascinating art collections.

Highlights of this tour include a guided tour at Ushaw College and an opportunity to meet the library Curator and see up close some of the delicate artefacts housed in the collections here, a guided tour of Hovingham Hall and a visit to the Bowes Museum, home to "The Curiosity Project," shortlisted for Permanent Exhibition of Year at the Museum & Heritage awards.