Day 1 - On the long journey to Bamburgh the adventure began at Hartlepool Quay.  The 'shipmates' were press ganged onto the Tricomalee where they learnt all about life at sea as a Victorian sailor.  After exploring fighting ships, the coach was again boarded for part two of the journey.

The sun was shining on arrival at Bamburgh.  Excitement grew as the rooms were announced and hotel explored.  After tea of burger and wedges, the night walk on the beach, around the castle gave the children the chance to see the 'winking' lighthouses on the Farne Islands.  Stars came out to greet the children and the milky way was very visible.  Following hot chocolate and buns, all settled well for a first night's sleep - ready for the long hike tomorrow.

Day 2 - After a hearty breakfast, the beach awaited for the long hike to Seahouses.  The tide had retreated leaving behind the flotsam ripe for exploration.  Seaweed, shells and rocks became the new treasures.  The brave few challenged themselves with the paddle in the cold north sea - five minutes later all had returned to warm socks and shoes.  Lunch overlooking the harbour attracted some hungry seagulls.  After searching the rock pools for creatures and showing off their knowledge, the return to Bamburgh.  For the wearisome few, a walk along the beach.  For the energetic ones - the sand dunes were beckoning.  For the conquers of the sand dunes a sledge down back to base was their reward.  Games night was a great end to a busy day.

Day 3 - Time travel was the order of the day as the children travelled back 150 years to the Victorian age.  Cragside mansion was the first house in the world to be powered by hydro electricity and the children were mesmerised by the working pump house and Archimedes Screw.  Once inside the house they amazed the public who commented on their enthusiasm and impeccable behaviour.  The questions asked as they played with Victorian toys and explored the kitchens were insightful.  All were disappointed when it was time to leave to travel back. 

Quiz night challenged the children's general knowledge and tired out some happy but worn out children.  All looking forward to finally exploring the castle tomorrow.

Day 4 - After much anticipation, the children finally were able to discover the hidden secrets of Bamburgh Castle.  The magical history of the castle was brought to life through the many legends which were told.  After lunch in the dunes, the memories of Bamburgh were captured - there was silence as the children recorded this moment in time.  Grace Darling awaited back in the village and the children rein acted the famous rescue from Harcar Rock. 

'Bamburgh's got Talent' was the highlight of the night as many of the children were entertained by magic, gymnastics and singing.  All packed and ready for the long journey home - via Beamish.

Day 5 - Our final morning started with the usual cooked breakfast but unlike the other days, we had our own awards presentation to celebrate what the children had done whilst in Bamburgh. Children received prizes for having the tidiest rooms; showing the best manners; creating the best rockpool environment; winning the team quiz and finally winning Bamburgh's Got Talent. The children were all keen to see who had impressed the adults the most throughout the week.

Our long journey home was made easier by our visit to Beamish - the open air museum near Newcastle. On our way there we were excited to see The Angel of the North before finally entering the museum. Upon arriving at the museum, we stepped back in time where the children experienced a Victorian School; learned about children's roles in the coal mines as well as sampling and buying some old fashioned sweets.

The final leg of our journey saw lots of tired children sleep on the coach journey home before being met by parents once back at school.

All in  all, the children loved their residential and would love to go back. Year 4 - watch this space!