The most northerly English county, Northumberland is a well kept secret. Many are guilty of overlooking her in favour of better known national parks. Join us on this new Masterclass and discover a land of vast countryside, rugged coasts, hidden beaches and more castles than anywhere else in England.
At a Glance
Masterclass leader: Alan Proto
Expert Photographer: James Cummings
Base Camp: Bamburgh, Northumberland
Skill level: Best for those with some experience of drone flying
Timing: We have chosen September for this tour, to avoid the crowds, and capture the gorgeous light at this time of year
Exertion: Light
Payment: £500 deposit required with booking, balance payable 90 days before trip
Our itinerary will be flexible depending on the weather, the tides and tailored to the group. We will be sure to capture the strategic significance of the region’s past flying over the imposing castles at Bamburgh and crumbling Dunstanburgh standing guard on a remote headland. We will soar over the expansive, golden beaches at Low Newton and Beadnall. Plus where better to experience night flying and light painting than the officially recognised Northumberland Dark Sky Park, awarded Gold Tier Status and unspoilt by light pollution.
Pack your DSLR as well as your drone as there will be plenty of opportunities for land-based photography during this Masterclass, including at Lindisfarne.
No trip to the North East would be complete without a pilgrimage to Lindisfarne, where we will capture the ruined priory and castle before relaxing with a Pilgrims Coffee or perhaps some Lindisfarne Mead.
In contrast to the dramatic landscape photography that the region has to offer, we will also make a day trip to Edinburgh for an Iconic Urban flying day. See the Scottish Capital from a whole new perspective with your drone. Capture the Castle, Royal Mile, National Monument of Scotland and Arthur’s Seat.
This trip is perfect for those who love flying drones and anyone passionate about photography. Non-flying partners are also welcome to join us to enjoy stunning views, wide-open landscapes, and history-packed castles, as well as cosy dinners, roaring fires, and excellent breakfasts.
We will visit locations based on weather and the tides for you to get the most out of the Masterclass. Flying and photography sites will include the castles at Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh, the beaches at Low Newton and Bamburgh, Lindisfarne, Northumberland Darks Skies Park and Edinburgh.
Our home for this Masterclass is the Victoria Hotel in Bamburgh, the jewel in Northumberland’s crown and the perfect base for exploring the region. Located on the quintessential village green, the hotel has a brasserie restaurant as well as a cosy bar with crackling fires. The menu is locally sourced and guests enjoy a hearty Northumberland breakfast each morning. All rooms are ensuite and there is free parking at the hotel.