Christian Guild Christian Guild
HOTELS • HOLIDAYS • CONFERENCES
newsletter : June 2015
WELCOME
Whenever I visit one of our five magnificent hotels across the UK I’m always impressed by just how dedicated our staff are. Their mission is to help you get the most out of your stay with us, and to ensure we always keep quality at the core of our organisation. We are committed to helping you have a fantastic holiday, break, or overnight stay, but we always like to go further. That is why we offer our guests more than just fantastic hotels and holidays. For example, we have an early payment offer that lets you enjoy a 4% discount on the price of your holiday when you pay in full six months or more in advance. And we continue to offer our redundancy protection scheme; if you are made redundant after booking your holiday and wish to cancel, then we will ensure a full refund of all money is paid – including deposits. So you can have total peace of mind when you book with us. If you want to explore some of the most scenic areas of Britain, then a Christian Guild hotel is a great place to stay. Every hotel offers themed breaks and holidays, or if you just need a base for a few days to visit an area you’ve always wanted to see, then we’re ready to welcome you. We’re flexible and always want to meet the needs of all our guests – it’s why more than 20,000 people chose to stay with us last year! Contact your choice of hotel now to find out more, or visit www.christianguild.co.uk for more information. You will always receive a warm welcome at a Christian Guild hotel. Kevin Mantle, Managing Director
tHe Isles of ScillY
Centenary Celebrations Centenary Songs at Sidholme
100
Christian Guild’s centenary celebrations got off to a rousing start in April with a Songs of the Century break at Sidholme Hotel. Singers and guests rehearsed four hours a day for three days before presenting an evening concert to local people in the hotel’s magnificent Music Room. The repertoire included iconic songs from the last 100 years, including a series of First World War songs, Singin’ In the Rain, You’ll Never Walk Alone, Bridge Over Troubled Water and Bohemian Rhapsody. There were pop medleys of Beatles and Abba songs, and a stunning rendition of Parry’s Coronation Anthem ‘I Was Glad’. Each decade’s songs were preceded by a reminder of the main news events of the day and the progress of Methodist Guild Holidays and Christian Guild. Joint musical director John Moffoot said, ‘We didn’t know how many singers we would have or what parts they could sing. In the event, we had a choir of 35 with a perfect distribution of voices. The result was a superb concert which was well supported and much appreciated.’ During the week, a celebratory banquet was held and a tree was planted, to grow in the grounds of the hotel for the next 100 years.
A Wonderful Week at Willersley 100
Shareholders enjoyed a Centenary Celebration at Willersley Castle Hotel in May, which included coach trips to places such as Trentham Gardens in Stoke, the Millennium Gallery in Sheffield, a cruise on the River Trent, and guided walks in Derbyshire. The evenings were filled with fascinating presentations by Aquabox, an Organ Grinder, Darley Hillside Choir and The Dalesmen Male Voice Choir. On other evenings The Festival Swing Dance Society got everyone’s toes tapping and taught some 1940’s dances too. And when antiques expert George Baldwin came he surprised guests with the original Winnie the Pooh which some people were fortunate enough to briefly hold. Through all these activities flowed the fun, faith and fellowship so cherished within Christian Guild. So when it came to the planting of the Centenary Tree and the cutting of the cake, guests could really look forward to the future with confidence and thanksgiving. Here’s to the next 100 years!
Still to come...
2 - 9 may 2016, 7 nights
Contact Sarah at Head Office to register your interest: 01629 826531 or sarah@christianguild.co.uk
contact details Head Office ��������������������������������������������������������� 01629 826531 Abbot Hall Hotel ��������������������������������������������� 015395 32896 Lindors Country House Hotel ��������������������� 01594 530283
100
100 Year Celebration – Abbot Hall, 20th - 27th June Summer Centenary Family Weeks – Treloyhan Manor, July & August Hosts’ Centenary Week – Lindors, 11th - 16th October Sidholme Hotel ������������������������������������������������� 01395 515104 Treloyhan Manor Hotel ��������������������������������� 01736 796240 Willersley Castle Hotel ����������������������������������� 01629 582270
www.christianguild.co.uk All offers in this publication are applicable to new bookings only and subject to availability. Unless otherwise stated, all prices are per person. Full balances must be paid at the time of booking. Terms & conditions apply. Excursions and some entertainment may incur additional costs.
FSC info
Abbot Hall Hotel
015395 32896
abbot@christianguild.co.uk
S
ituated on the edge of the Lake District, Abbot Hall Hotel is a charming country hotel with a relaxing environment. Nestling in the hamlet of Kents Bank, near Grange-over-Sands, the 19th century mansion boasts a wide range of facilities, including a 15m heated indoor swimming pool and a children's adventure area. The hotel is an ideal base for exploring the stunning Cumbrian scenery. For those relaxing at the hotel, there are well-appointed lounges. Diners are offered a delicious choice of home-cooked dishes, with locally-sourced produce where possible. There are also five self-catering pine lodges – so there really is something for everyone.
Congratulations! Our Deputy Manager, Diane Palmer, has successfully completed – and ahead of time! – her NVQ level 3 Diploma in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership. Well done Diane!
Friday 21st August Special Summer Sizzle Night This fabulous evening commences with Pimm’s on the lawn, croquet and music; followed by a three-course barbecue dinner including Tapas: starter of Morecambe Bay potted shrimps, breads, and dips; deluxe barbecue with a selection of meats and local fish; and to finish, a sumptuous dessert table. Event price: £49
Two New Blue-Badge Tours 13th – 18th September Traditional Industries of the Lakes & Dales Discover how the natural resources of the Lake District gave rise to its varied industrial heritage and in turn helped shape the landscape. Explore an old gunpowder works, a bobbin mill and an abbey - and come right up-to-date with the modern face of ship-building. Quirky museums help explain how the people of Cumbria overcame the physical hardships of living in a remote area through resourcefulness and invention. 5-night package price: £452
1st – 6th November Dissenters & Non-Conformists of Cumbria When the monastic influence ceased in the 16th century, the independent spirit of people remote from power in London naturally sought alternative ways to demonstrate their beliefs. The turbulent world of 17th century England led to George Fox founding the Society of Friends (Quakers) in this area, and we will visit key locations associated with this movement. We’ll also visit small chapels built by local people to serve their community, allowing them to worship in a way just right for them. 5-night package price: £400 For more details about either tour, email: jilldurnford@yahoo.com
More great holiday highlights at Abbot Hall in 2015
18th – 25th July
27th September – 2nd October
25th July – 1st August
18th – 23rd October
Fun and Fellowship for 50+: This holiday includes two excursions with packed lunch and a host of other activities and fellowship. Package price: £490. Blue Badge – Home & Gardens Break: Jill Durnford leads this very popular break to discover the delights of both private and public South Lakeland homes and gardens. Package price: £651.
15th – 18th August
Stay As You Please Summer Special: Package price: just £165 for 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast.
29 August – 4 September
Late Summer Walks: Join seasoned walks leaders Margaret and Graham Bevan on a series of walk through the Lakes and the Furness peninsula. Package price with walks: £474, or Stay As You Please for £360.
13th – 18th September
Stay As You Please: 5-night package price: £300.
Singles week: A singles break with an excursion and guided walk included, share fun and fellowship with like-minded people. Package price: £335. Dancing Break, with very popular dance leader, Hilary Herbert. This is an additional week for Hilary as she takes over from Roy McCullough, in a change from the details advertised in the brochure. Package price: £340
25th – 30th October
Half Term Family Fun: Fun activities and games for all! It’s the last school holiday, so come and recharge those batteries before winter sets in! Package price: £245 – but don’t forget our excellent kids’ discounts!
1st - 6th November
Painting Break: Alison Drake shares her skills and stretches your talent to bring out the best in your watercolour painting. Package price: £350
Centenary Cross Bay Walk On Saturday 23rd May 2015 around 40 participants walked across Morecambe Bay, led by Cedric Robinson – the Queens Guide to the Sands. The weather was kind with warm sunshine and a light breeze which enabled everyone to enjoy a barbecue and sumptuous desserts in the Abbot Hall garden on completion. The sponsorship money is still coming in but we think there will be in the region of £500 for us to donate to the Nigeria Health Care Project.
Lindors
country house Hotel 01594 530283
lindors@christianguild.co.uk
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et in nine acres of wooded gardens, Lindors Country House Hotel is a majestic place to find peace and tranquillity. Sitting above the River Wye valley, the hotel offers exquisite gardens with waterfalls and pools. Inside, there are comfortable lounges and crackling log fires in winter. You will enjoy fine dining during your stay at Lindors Country House Hotel, and well-appointed bedrooms that offer the modern amenities you’d expect at such a topclass hotel, such as TVs and telephones. There are also five wonderful pine lodges in the grounds offering the choice of selfcatering, or you can enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant.
26th July – 1st August Summer Gardens & National Trust Break with Derek & Ann Rees Explore some of the best local gardens and National Trust properties in the South West, including: Hidcote; Dyffryn Gardens; Tyntesfield; Hampton Court, Herefordshire; and Dewstow Gardens. 6-night package price: £425
6th – 11th September Daytime Walks & Evening Dances with Martin & Jackie Wrench Take in the beautiful countryside around Lindors with walks led by Martin, then return to play bowls on Lindors bowling green, or maybe a game or two of croquet. Including excursions to St. Fagans National Museum of Wales and Tredegar House. Dancing each evening with expert tuition from Barbara Axon. 5-night package price: £377 includes half-board accommodation, four short walks, two day trips with packed lunches, local choir, evening dancing, socials and fellowship. Only twin and doubles rooms available.
includes half-board accommodation, five coach excursions, admissions, (discounts for NT members – please remember to bring your card) and evening social entertainment. Twin and double rooms still available.
11th – 16th October 100 Hosts' Centenary Break with Doug Emms & Val Smith
18th – 23rd October Music Break with Vernon & Maureen Godden
Join us to celebrate 100 years as a company. Hosts are an integral part of what we do, and during this week we will celebrate with guest speakers, two day excursions, walks around the Wye Valley and great fellowship. There might even be time to enjoy live music from a Male Voice Choir! On the last evening we will enjoy a gala dinner and a game of Channel Island Cricket! We hope you will join us! 5-night package price: £425
Explore the local area and take in the sights such as Offa’s Dyke during this relaxing autumn getaway. With so much to see you’ll be spoilt for choice, and each evening unwind with music from local artists and groups. 5-night package price: £355 includes half-board accommodation, evening musical entertainment and fellowship.
includes half-board accommodation, excursions, short walks, fellowship, evening entertainment and gala dinner.
More great holiday highlights at Lindors in 2015 1st - 8th and 24th - 28th August
Summer Family Fun: Join us at Lindors to enjoy the beautiful gardens and many activities including tennis, swimming, croquet, mini golf and more. Package prices: 1st - 8th August £448, 24th - 28th August £256, including half board accommodation, craft materials, games and fellowship. Under 10s go free!
8th - 14th August and 30th August – 5th September
Summertime Stay As You Please: “There are so many of you that I haven’t met yet, please do come and stay!” – Victoria. Prices per night: £65 in half-board accommodation (min. 2 nights)
26th – 30th October
Autumn Half Term Family Fun: It’s the last school holiday before Christmas and those dark nights and chilly days can make it difficult to entertain children. Not to worry, because we have a programme of fun lined up for all the family. 4-night package price: £220 including half board accommodation, craft materials, fun swim, games and fellowship. Under 10s go free!
1st – 30th November, 1st – 21st December
Stay As You Please: Join us on either of these weeks for a relaxing autumn break. Prices per night: November £45, December £43. Half-board accommodation (min. 2 nights)
New Holiday! 8th – 13th November Autumn Tints & Dyffryn Gardens with Derek & Ann Rees Explore some of the local scenery admiring the beautiful autumn colours. Travel in convoy to Cannop Ponds in the Forest of Dean, St. Fagans Museum of Welsh life in Cardiff, visit Dyffryn Gardens and enjoy the boutique shops of Monmouth. 5-night package price: £225 includes half-board accommodation, evening entertainment and fellowship.
28th Dec – 2nd Jan 2016 New Year Celebration with Val Smith & Doug Emms New Year? Oh yes it is. You’ll welcome in the New Year with a lot of laughs when we visit a local pantomime. During times of reflection you can also attend a midnight service as one year gives way to another. 3-night package price: £255 4-night package price: £316 5-night package price: £365 including full-board accommodation, pantomime, gentle stroll, gala dinner and plenty of fellowship.
Sidholme Hotel
01395 515104
sidholme@christianguild.co.uk
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he majestic Georgian mansion of Sidholme Hotel sits in idyllic grounds in the Regency seaside town of Sidmouth. Inside the resplendent building is the jewel in the crown – a stunning Victorian music room, with fine chandeliers and Gothic-style organ. As well as welcoming bedrooms and lounges, there is lots to do for the more active guests. There is a heated indoor swimming pool, a snooker room, table tennis and spacious landscaped grounds. Sidholme Hotel, with its proximity to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage site and East Devon’s charming countryside, is perfect for short breaks and holidays.
4th – 9th October Scottish Dancing led by Tony Payne Enjoy a great dancing break – it’s fun, social and healthy! In the Music Room each day there will be dancing tuition in the morning and social dancing in the evening, all led by Tony and Dilys Payne from the Nottingham branch of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society. 5-night package price: £360 includes half-board accommodation, dancing tuition, afternoon tea and coffee, lunches, and evening socials.
22nd – 28th December 28th Dec – 2nd Jan 2016 Christmas Celebration New Year Celebration
25th – 29th October Autumn Half Term Who built the Ark? You’ll find out all you need to know about Noah and his Ark during a fun filled family break that focuses on the theme of the Bible-story. 4-night package price: £208 Children 10 and under: Free!
Celebrate Christmas with friends old and new in the fantastic family atmosphere of Sidholme Hotel, and let us take care of all the seasonal food as well! There will be a host of social activities in the hotel and locally in and around Sidmouth to enjoy during this festive period. 5-night package price: £450
including full-board accommodation, activities, fellowship, and musical entertainment.
Welcome in 2016 with us! If you prefer to do something interesting between Christmas and New Year, then this enjoyable break where you can chat with others and explore the Devon seaside town of Sidmouth is perfect for you. 3-night package price: £252 4-night package price: £308 5-night package price: £355 including full-board accommodation, activities, fellowship, and musical entertainment.
Package includes half-board accommodation; morning and afternoon activities; craft and materials; fun swim; evening entertainment and fellowship.
1st – 21st December Stay As You Please... throughout December. Price per night: £43
in half-board accommodation (min. 2 nights).
More great holiday highlights at Sidholme in 2015 5th – 10th July
Stay As You Please: Take advantage of the warm weather and our beautiful gardens on this wonderful July getaway. 5-night package price: £325 in half-board accommodation.
19th – 25th July
Stay As You Please: Enjoy a relaxing summer holiday in Sidholme’s beautiful surroundings, just a 15 minute walk from the Sidmouth sea front. 6-night package price: £384 in half-board accommodation.
25th July – 1st August and 22nd – 28th August
Circus family-fun: Enjoy the summer with these fabulous circus-themed Family Fun weeks, including a circus workshop, games and activities. Package prices: 2 5th July – 1st August, £448. 22nd- 28th August, £384.
11th – 16th October and 18th – 23rd October
Stay As You Please: Join us on either of these weeks for a relaxing autumn break. 5-night package prices: £295 in half-board accommodation.
1st – 30th November
Stay As You Please at any time throughout November. Price per night: £ 45 in half-board accommodation (min. 2 nights)
Treloyhan manor Hotel 01736 796240
treloyhan@christianguild.co.uk
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his superb 19th century manor house, built by Sir Edward Hain, offers you fantastic views across Carbis Bay in the award-winning Cornish coastal resort of St Ives. Set in the serenity of beautiful gardens, Treloyhan Manor Hotel offers a range of superb bedrooms, free private parking, and delicious home-cooked cuisine with an emphasis on local produce from its fully licensed restaurant, including traditional Cornish cream teas. The hotel is close to internationally acclaimed sandy beaches and picturesque villages, and you can enjoy the wealth of tourist attractions that this tranquil part of Cornwall has to offer. Hotel facilities include flat-screen televisions and free Wi-Fi in all rooms, pool table, putting green, and table tennis for your enjoyment.
July, September, October Walking Breaks With the good weather finally here, now is the ideal time to explore the beautiful and breath-taking scenery Cornwall has on offer. Join us for one of our popular walking breaks between 5th-9th July, 13th17th September or 11th-15th October and discover the delights of walking in this glorious part of the country. 5th – 9th July Strolling & Exploring 4-night package price: £495 11th – 15th October Strolling & Exploring 4-night package price: £495
July & August 100 Summer Centenary Family Weeks
In this our centenary year, come and join the celebrations between 25th July and 22nd August. Set in nine acres of beautiful gardens and within easy walking distance of five golden sandy beaches, Treloyhan Manor is the perfect base for your family’s holiday. Do your own thing or join in with our funpacked programme, with planned activities for all ages including an evening theatre trip, sea based activity for the children, sand castle competitions, garden party, gala dinner, talent competition and so much more. 7-night package prices: 25th July – 1st August, 1st – 8th August, 8th – 15th August, 15th – 22nd August. All £490.
29th – 31st August & 3rd – 5th September 2-night Getaways
12th – 27th September Music Festival Stay As You Please
With the end of the school holidays, this is a great time to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of St Ives with a 2-night dinner, bed, and breakfast break. Please contact the hotel for details as special rates will be available.
St Ives September festival brings the town alive with music, art and poetry. With impromptu street entertainment, guided walks, exhibitions, talks, workshops and comedy nights, there is something for everyone. Price per night: £66
4th – 10th October St Ives Art Week
1st Nov – 21st Dec Stay As You Please
For all art lovers: take a break and enjoy watercolour tuition, art demonstrations, visits to local galleries and topical art talks, all included as part of your holiday package.
Take time to relax and unwind during November and December. Explore and enjoy Cornwall at your own pace with a Stay As You Please break
6-night package price: £396 in half-board accommodation.
Price per night: £39
in half-board accommodation (min. 2 nights).
in half-board accommodation (min. 2 nights).
Willersley
Kevin’s Ride for Great Ormond Street Could you cycle over 140 miles in a day? Kevin George, General Manager is doing just that in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital, replicating the journey he took with his newborn son in an RAF helicopter nearly 7 years ago. Should you wish to support him please go to his charity webpage: www.justgiving.com/kevinsride
castle Hotel 01629 582270
willersley@christianguild.co.uk
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July & August Stay As You Please
The grand building overlooks the picturesque River Derwent and stands on the edge of the stunning Peak District National Park. It is also at the heart of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
Prices per night: 10th - 31st July, £59. 1st – 28th August Family Stay As You Please, £57.
his magnificent 18th century Grade II listed castle is set in 60 acres of grounds ranging from meadows to limestone crags.
There is lots to enjoy in the stately surroundings of the hotel, such as a 15 metre indoor swimming pool, boules court and impressive grounds. For those who want to venture out, the area offers everything from the industrial heritage of mills, canals and railways, to fine stately houses and some of England’s most beautiful walking areas.
We’re extending the dates for our summer Stay As You Please breaks!
in half-board accommodation.
14th – 18th September 15th – 20th November English Country Dancing Fancy a Bargain? Morning dance workshops, including longsword, rapper and running set, with free afternoons for you to spend at leisure in the local area. Then end each day with fine food and a social evening dance. 4-night package price: £274 in half-board accommodation.
Note: To book, contact Helen at revhel@sagga.org.uk
18th – 23rd October Strictly Dancing & Walking A fun week of dancing, led by Geoff Grey. Martin and Jackie Wrench will be hosting the week and walking with you. 5-night package price: £390 in half-board accommodation.
Themed nights at Willersley in 2015 Just £39 per person, dinner, bed & breakfast
Enjoy a night off from the washing up with one of our themed evenings:
If you wanted to stay an extra night, contact our reception team for availability and cost to make it a more leisurely break!
5-night package price: £175
in Mews half-board accommodation.
22nd – 27th November Winter Walking A wonderful break with daily walks around picturesque Derbyshire, with guided short walks, lunch in local hostelries and fun evening activities. 5-night package price: £245 in half-board accommodation.
Stay As You Please Throughout December (Christmas Holiday excluded) if you want to Stay As You Please and do your own thing, we will happily advise you on what’s happening locally. Chatsworth has their annual Christmas decorations on show, and there are many other things to see and do in Derbyshire on the run up to Christmas.
Ho ho ho! Are you looking for a relaxing break before Christmas? Then join us on one of our Turkey & Tinsel breaks – fun activities, outings, amazing food, fellowship and a Christmas present from the team are all included. 5-night package prices: £360 in half-board accommodation.
28th Dec – 2nd Jan 2016 Willersley New Year See in 2016 in style! Our comprehensive Willersley New Year break offers full board, in-house activities, fun, faith and fellowship. 5-night package price: £385 in full-board accommodation.
Price per night: £45
in half-board accommodation (min. 2 nights).
Buy one, get one free! 1
2 Afternoon Teas
use this voucher to enjoy for the price of at willersley castle hotel
Reservations are essential. Lowest priced tea goes free. Offer subject to availability, expires 21st December 2015, and valid only if a voucher is redeemed when ordering.
Sunday 28th June – Seafood Night Friday 17th July – 1940’s Evening Sunday 26th July – Italian Evening Friday 7th August – Summer Delights Sunday 30th August – Summer Delights Sunday 6th September – Spanish Night Sunday 13th September – Best of British Sunday 4th October – Best of British Sunday 25th October – German Evening Sunday 1st November – Seafood Night Thursday 5th November – French Night Sunday 15th November – Sunday Roast Thursday 19th November – Winter Wonders
Enjoy a 5-night Stay As You Please break in the Mews at this special rate.
Turkey & Tinsel Breaks 29th Nov – 4th Dec with Pam Wilson & Joan Holland 6th – 11th December with Rosemary Bell