A COUPLE have started an enterprise which allows for small groups to explore God’s Own Country and its grand houses.

Former film producer Pepe Parker, originally from Ilkley, and her partner retired solicitor, Peter Walker, from Skipton, have launched Diamond Days Out in Yorkshire.

Homes that feature include Castle Howard, Thorp Perrow Botanical Gardens, Harewood House, Swinton Park Estate and Newby Hall. All of the venues have been selected for their magnificent history and the concept is to encourage social interaction and enrichment, with those who have suffered loneliness and isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pepe and Peter’s aim is to provide a seamless day out with no worries of travel, parking or queuing. Days have been carefully planned to include express entry into the attraction, a private sit down lunch and a tour and talk of the history of the venue. The travel will be provided in mini-buses from collection points in Skipton, Ilkley and Harrogate.

Pepe said: “People have really missed social interaction during lockdown, myself included, and we aim to remedy that with our stress-free days out for individuals and groups. Our days are full of fun and laughter against a backdrop of Yorkshire beauty, what’s not to like?

"We are also hoping that our gift voucher facility will enable people to purchase a day out for a loved one or their friends or families, who they know will be well looked after.

"Dates of departure are on mainly on Thursdays in July and August and our full details and itineraries can be found upon searching Diamond Days Out in Yorkshire.”