Christian Guild
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GREETINGS
Christian Guild launches campaign for India’s poorest DURING June, July and August guests are being asked to support a Christian Guild campaign to help some of the poorest people in India. There are 410 million people who live below the poverty line in India – that’s more than the 26 poorest nations of Africa. Christian Guild has chosen to support the charity Methodist Relief & Development Fund (MRDF), whose work includes reaching the poorest communities in India. The Dalit communities face prejudice as they were traditionally seen as impure and fit only for the lowliest jobs. As a result, they struggle to survive on meagre resources. MRDF wants to reach the Dalit communities by helping them start their own small enterprises such as fish farming, goat herding and setting up vegetable stalls. Funding would also help MRDF set up seed banks so people can borrow seeds to plant and repay them at their next harvest. Just £7 will provide training in worm composting for 2 people, while £25 will pay for a drip irrigation pipeline for 30 acres of land. If you would like to give a donation, contact Christian Guild for details on 01629 580550. You can also email sarah@ christianguild.co.uk or write to Christian Guild, Derwent House, Cromford, Matlock DE4 5JG contact details Derwent House (Head Office) ������������������� 01629 580550 Abbot Hall Hotel ��������������������������������������������� 015395 32896 Lindors Country House Hotel ��������������������� 01594 530283
THIS spring has been superb, with predominantly wonderful weather over the long bank holiday weekends. And with May’s second bank holiday, Whitsun weekend, you could be forgiven for being in a holiday mood since Easter! Christian Guild can help you stay in that holiday mood over the summer, which could see the sunshine continuing. We still have some availability on selected dates at most of our hotels. Whether you want a weekend away, a longer holiday for a week or more or need to book a small residential conference, it’s not too late to book. But be quick to make the most of the availability we have – if you can be flexible, so can we. Contact the hotel of your choice (details below, or online at www.christianguild.co.uk) to discuss your needs. May I wish you all a peaceful summer and we look forward to welcoming you to one of our hotels. Kevin Mantle Managing Director
New director appointed CHRISTIAN Guild has appointed John Moffoot as a new non-executive director to its board. John and his family have acted as hosts at Christian Guild hotels since 2004, and he brings vast experience to the board. John is Assistant Director (Democratic Services), Electoral Registration and Returning Officer for Milton Keynes Council. He said: “I was born and brought up in a strong Methodist family and have held many different positions within the church, so it is a pleasure to be appointed a non-executive director to the board of Christian Guild.” Managing Director Kevin Mantle said “John will be a real asset to the company and board and we look forward to working with him.”
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. Full balances must be paid at the time of booking. Terms & conditions apply. Excursions and some entertainment may incur additional costs.
A break you’ll love!
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IF you want to give your loved one a treat – look no further than Abbot Hall Hotel. The hotel, on the edge of the stunning Lake District, is offering romantic breaks that allow you to shower your loved one with gifts and treats, with sparkling wine, chocolates and flowers in your room on arrival.
A walk for highfliers! IT’S not every day that walks at Abbot Hall take guests to such an altitude that they can look down on aircraft! But that’s just what happened during a recent walking break where people taking part got the chance to look the pilot of a Hercules right in the eye. At the recent Paper Craft and Walking break a number of guests went for a morning stroll up Gummers How hoping to see Windermere in all its glory. And just as they were about to start the descent, a Hercules aircraft on a training mission flew by. Aircraft flying in this area is not an uncommon sight but it’s usually jet aircraft testing the pilot’s navigation skills and with their speed of travel preparing the camera is almost impossible. On this occasion, however, the speed of the Hercules allowed cameras to be taken out of bags and photos taken. Whilst crafters were learning new skills and reviewing new equipment the walkers were able to enjoy some breathtaking scenery. There were also times when guests could do things together. A similar break at the hotel on the edge of the Lake District is planned for Sunday 4–Friday 9 March 2012 when there will be opportunity to craft and walk and additionally afternoon strolls which both can join. But with such superb views, places are likely to go flying, so be quick to book! Week strikes a chord POPULAR maestro Roger Jones will be at Abbot Hall Hotel during half-term to share his musical talent.
Roger, the creator of many biblical musicals, will be on hand to teach guests one of his compositions, Two Marys and a Funeral from 28 May – 4 June. There are a few rooms still available for this fun-packed week, so book now to avoid disappointment. Stepping out PUT your best foot forward! Abbot Hall has organised a fantastic week that will help you stay fit and have fun.
The Walking and Dancing Is Fun Week runs from 25 June – 2 July, and it’s a great way to meet new people. Once you’ve worked up an appetite during daytime walks in the beautiful Lake
District, guests will be able to enjoy a delicious evening meal before winding down on the dancefloor. Aquacise classes will also be held, so you’ll be able to relax those muscles in the lovely, warm pool. Friendship and fellowship WHAT better way to enjoy the Lake District than in the company with some new friends?
The Fun & Fellowship Week at Abbot Hall from 9 – 16 July allows you to relax with like-minded people over the age of 50. Included in the break is a free trip to the breathtaking Lakes just before it gets busy during the school holidays.
It’s a popular week and you’re likely to make some great, new friends, so book now to avoid disappointment.
Abbot Hall’s Romantic Breaks cost just £45 more than the standard holiday price – so you don’t have to break the bank to give your loved one a treat. The price includes a full English breakfast and a superb candle-lit, three-course dinner. For more information about the breaks and the terms and conditions, contact the hotel on 015395 32896.
Rooms upgraded! GUESTS at Abbot Hall can enjoy staying in plush new rooms following a recent revamp. Work on the rooms was completed earlier in the year and means there are now three large family rooms and extra space for others. General Manager Amanda Fogg said: “The new rooms look stunning and guests are already giving us positive feedback.”
Lakes tour deal SIT back and enjoy the beauty of the Lakes without the worry of the road during a special break at Abbot Hall. The Lakes Tour – which takes place from 16 – 22 July – lets you sit back on a luxury coach so you can take in the sight and sounds of this glorious National Park. And if that isn’t enough to tempt you, how about a superb deal that will save you money? If you share a room with a family or friend, one of you can stay for half price! Break is child’s play LET your family have a fantastic start to the school holidays with Abbot Hall Hotel’s brilliant Kids Zone week in July. As well as inflatable fun and the legendary predator experience, a host of exciting activities have been planned for the break, taking place
from 23 – 30 July.
And to add to the appeal of this great-value week, children under 12 can stay for free, while those between 12 and 15 pay just 25% of the adult price. Contact Abbot Hall today to book a brilliant break. On your marks! WHO needs London? Who needs 2012? Abbot Hall Hotel is putting on its own Olympics this summer – and it will be perfect for all those young people who aren’t quite old enough to take part in the main event next year.
The Olympic Games Galore break – from 6 – 17 August – is packed with sporting activities so parents can unwind. And if you book your break between 13 and 17 August, you can enjoy four nights for the price of three.
Great accolade ABBOT Hall has once again been recognised by Investors in People. It is the third time the accolade has been awarded to the hotel over six years after a review was carried out in April. General Manager Amanda Fogg said: “I want to thank the whole team for their continuing hard work and support to achieve this year on year.”
Floored by refurbishment! THE floor of the swimming pool hall at Abbot Hall Hotel has been replaced to give it a fantastic new look. The work is part of Christian Guild’s investment to modernise and refurbish its hotels to give guests an even better stay.
Restaurant licence GUESTS who like to enjoy a glass of wine with their meal can now do so at Abbot Hall as the Cumbrian hotel is now licensed.
Chernobyl children visit hotel CHILDREN who live in Chernobyl will pop into Treloyhan Manor Hotel as they make their annual visit to Cornwall in July. This year marks the 25th anniversary since the disaster left thousands of people homeless and exposed to deadly levels of radiation after the explosion at the Chernobyl Nuclear Plant. People were evacuated from towns near the reactors, and radiation in the area is still dangerously high after a quarter of a century. The children visit Cornwall every year to sample the western world and enjoy lunch at Treloyhan Manor as well as games on the lawn.
refurbishment continues GUESTS will be able to relax in the newly refurbished lounge at Treloyhan Manor after a major refit was carried out. New carpets, curtains and furniture have been installed to modernise and improve the facilities on offer at the St Ives hotel. The work is part of a massive refurbishment of the hotel in the past two years.
‘Treasure At Treloyhan’ YOUNG guest Alexander Kirkland has waxed lyrical and put Treloyhan Manor Hotel right at the centre of a story, which he’s now had published in a young writers’ publication. The nine-year-old, who regularly stays at the hotel, is so taken with its beautiful setting on the rugged Cornish coastline that he used it as inspiration for his story. Treasure at Treloyhan has now been published in an edition of Over The Rainbow as part of the Young Writers Publications. Here’s the story itself:
Treasure at Treloyhan
It was 5am and we were in the car to go to my favourite holiday – Treloyhan by the sea! Seven hours later, we pulled up outside the hotel. Inside I noticed the newspaper headline on the front desk: ‘Miniature ornaments and paintings stolen from Tate’. “Hmm, interesting”, I thought! That night, I woke at 4am and looking out the window, I saw Godrevy Lighthouse flashing white as usual, but with a mysterious red light too! Dressing quickly, I ran down to the beach. Spotting a boat, I rowed over to Godrevy. I climbed up the rocks and was soon at the lighthouse door. It was wide open, so I went in! From upstairs, I heard voices. “We’ll load them tonight, Fred.” They started coming down the stairs, so I hid in a broom cupboard, where I nearly fell over a box of ornaments I’d seen in the paper. I carried it outside, into the boat and set off. When I reached Porthkidney Sands, someone from the hotel helped me ashore and phoned the police. The Tate Modern were so pleased to have the treasure back, they gave me free holidays at Treloyhan Manor every summer!
Treloyhan overlooks ‘one of Europe’s top beaches’ ST Ives is one of the top ten beaches in Europe – beating off those in some of the top resorts of the South of France and Spain – according to a new study. Travel website TripAdvisor carried out the survey and found that the beach at St Ives was the sixth best beach in Europe, and the best in Britain! Treloyhan Manor General Manager Kieran Lynch said: “Treloyhan Manor stands in a superb position overlooking Carbis Bay on the edge of St Ives. “We’ve always known it was one of the best beaches in Europe, if not the world, and it’s a great place to come for a holiday. “We’re delighted that the outstanding beauty of St Ives has been recognised. Being right on the doorstep in such a fantastic hotel means we’ll probably get inundated with people wanting to experience such a beautiful place.”
coming soon SPECIAL South West and Methodist Heritage coach tours are being lined up for July and September 2012, so keep a look out for the details. You can keep up to date by visiting our website at www.christianguild.co.uk or look out for information in a future edition of Grapevine. Summer sea view rooms available WITH summer around the corner, don’t leave it too late to book your holiday this year. Treloyhan Manor still has a few prime, sea view rooms available from 16–29 July and 13–20 August. The Cornwall hotel boasts beautiful views of the stunning coastline, where golden, sandy beaches await you and your family. It will be a memorable holiday for everyone – and all without leaving the beautiful shores of Britain. There are also a handful of rooms available for May Spring Bank, 28th May - 4th June.
Treloyhan in the frame THE splendid surroundings of Treloyhan have become a backdrop for a fashion shoot for a German magazine. An internet link to the photographs will be released later this year, so keep looking out for details in a future edition of Grapevine.
Manager becomes association’s President THE General Manager at Sidholme Hotel, James Sharp, has been voted the new President of Sidmouth and District Hospitality Association. And delighted James hopes that the new position will encourage more people from around the area to stay at Sidholme to experience the Christian Guild welcome. Retiring President Mark Seward, who held the role for the past six years, presented James the President’s medal. Pictured with James are Victoria Hatfield, from Heart of Devon - Exeter City Council, Sidmouth Town Clerk Trina Jarrett, Cllr John Dyson, John Sheaves Chief Executive of Taste of the West and retiring President Mark Seward.
Well connected! Keeping in touch with Sidholme is easy as the hotel is using the latest technology, with regular updates on Facebook and Twitter, and its latest deals appear on www.vouchercloud.com. The hotel also now offers SMS texts to your mobile with booking confirmations, updates and offers.
IIP Award for sidholme SIDHOLME Hotel has proved it’s the business after being given a top accolade. The hotel in Sidmouth, Devon, has picked up the prestigious Investors in People Award. It was given the nationally recognised standard for its work in improving and developing the performance of the team. Sizzling offer WITH forecasters claiming we’re in for a hot summer, guests can make sure they have a sizzling time with some hot offers from Sidholme Hotel. The hotel is currently offering 20% off prices in non-ensuite rooms in the Annexe – which means you’ll save up to £10 per night or £50 for a five-night stay… that’s basically five nights for the price of four! The summer offers include weeks from 6 August to 2 September, so book now to make sure you grab a great deal for you and your family. Visit www.christianguild.co.uk for more details or contact Sidholme on 01395 515104.
M.I.5idholme BUDDING James Bonds of all ages can learn more about being a spy on their holidays at Sidholme. The hotel has teamed up with Super Spies to offer secret agent training, available during any break at the hotel, to combat the threat from enemy spies and double agents! Using the cover of the hotel, specially gifted recruits will be trained to become a Super Spy*. You will been given a code name and password which you must use to log on to the hotel’s secure system. Then your training will begin. General Manager James Sharp said: “Should you choose to accept these missions you will
grounds for enjoyment SIDHOLME are having a Garden Party on Wednesday 6th July to raise money for the organ fund and to mark the 80th anniversary of Sidholme being a Christian Guild hotel. Running from 1.30 to 5.00pm, there will be music, stalls and a trail round the house, with afternoon tea. be entering the secret world of international espionage. “You will be competing against and training with fellow recruits, testing your special agent skills, breaking secret codes and much more. “Beware – the threats from double agents and enemy spies are real and they are actively seeking the same information as you. Remember, you should trust no-one with the information you learn. “And don’t forget, this is a secret mission and you are training to be a Super Spy!” For more details, contact Sidholme – in secret of course – on 01395 515104. NB: Aston Martin not included! *There is a small charge per spy.
New general Manager appointed at Lindors! WE are pleased to announce the appointment of Neil Heaven as the new General Manager at Lindors Country House Hotel.
Neil, who was born not far from the valley in Pontypool, has a wealth of experience in the hospitality sector. He has managed various large and small hotels across the UK, and has relocated to the Wye Valley from the North West with his family.
Neil said: “I’m so proud to have been appointed to my position at Lindors and feel so lucky to work in a beautiful hotel and grounds with so much history. “I plan to carry on the tradition of Lindors with a friendly service and relaxed atmosphere, and to become part of the history in the future”. When Neil has time to relax, he loves spending time with his wife Joanne and children. He is also a big Liverpool football club fan – and even has a dog called Torres, but has no plans to change its name after four years. He said: “I did try calling her Carroll for two days but got no response” Christian Guild Managing Director Kevin Mantle said: “We welcome Neil to Lindors and to the Christian Guild family.” Kids can go free! PARENTS can enjoy the stunning grounds of Willersley Castle and bring their children for free during a special week in August.
There’s no cost for under-16s who share a room with adults during 7 – 10 August. It’s an ideal week for those who love the outdoors as the offer takes place during the hotel’s special cycling week. “But,” says General Manager Kevin George, “if you prefer not to take part in the cycling week, you can opt out and enjoy the Derbyshire Peak District or maybe a day out to Alton Towers, which isn’t far.” For parents who prefer their children to use their own room, there’s an excellent value supplement of just £15 per night per child. Sizzling offer SIT back and enjoy the late summer at a fantastic price during a three-day special offer at Willersley Castle.
From 2 – 5 September you can enjoy dinner, bed and breakfast and a packed lunch on departure for just £120. There will be fun and games and suggested visits during the three days too, so it’s an ideal break before autumn.
Tropical time at Willersley YOU don’t need to jet anywhere to enjoy a tropical experience! Instead, you can make your way to Willersley Castle in July, August and September. The stunning Derbyshire hotel has a host of specially-themed breaks for you and your family throughout the summer. And with no minimum night restrictions, you can visit Willersley for as long or as little as you wish. Tropical-themed breaks and teen activities are just a couple of the superb holiday ideas offered, so why not contact Willersley Castle today to book a break that’s just right for you? You can contact the hotel on 01629 582270 or log on to www.christianguild.co.uk Singularly brilliant! DON’T miss Willersley Castle’s sizzling summer offer for single rooms! People who book a single room between 23 July and 27 August get 10% off the published price. It’s a great way to invite along a grandparent or other guest who may be unable to stay for the whole of your holiday. Offer applies to new bookings only and excludes the week from 13 – 20 August.
Super offers not to be missed LINDORS has three fantastic breaks on offer.
• The hotel is offering the chance for a free night when you book into the fantastic self-catering lodges. Book five nights from Sundays to Fridays between 4 and 24 June, and pay for only four! • For just £196 per person, you can enjoy a 4-night break from 12 – 16 July with dinner, bed and breakfast in the beautiful 19th century mansion. • You can also get a discount of £10.00 per person per night off the published adult rate from 6 – 13 August and 20 – 27 August, saving £70.00 per person on a 7-night stay. Don’t miss out on these brilliant offers – call Lindors Country House Hotel now on 01594 530283
A hive of activity THERE’S a real buzz about Willersley Castle! That’s because two colonies of 80,000 bees have made the hotel their home. The bees made the trip from Lindors Country House Hotel by car in March following Kevin George's move to Willersley Castle. Kevin, who says the colony is now settled, hopes there will be Willersley honey available in June. For fans of Lindors honey, don’t worry! The original hive has been kept at Lindors, so now Christian Guild guests can get taste the honey from both hotels.
New appointments IMKE Behrendt has been appointed Operations Manager at Willersley Castle – joining new General Manager Kevin George. Imke has a wealth of experience in the hotel industry and is already making her mark with her focus on standards at Willersley. Sharon Regan joins Imke as Conference Administrator for Willersley Castle. Sharon will be the point of contact for all conferences and large groups, ensuring the smooth and easy running of any events you may wish to plan at the hotel.
Wesley paintings swapped TWO paintings of Methodist founder John Wesley that were loaned to Treloyhan Manor have been returned to Wesley Cottage. The pictures have been at Treloyhan since the 1950s after the trustees of Wesley Cottage agreed to loan them to the hotel. The hotel is delighted to work with the trustees and was happy to hand back the paintings for the original home after improvements at the cottage in Trewint, near Launceston in Cornwall. The excellent connections with Wesley Cottage continue, as the trustees have agreed to loan two more paintings to Treloyhan to replace those that were given back.
Holidays further afield in 2011 Sometimes you feel the need to go a little further, which is why Christian Guild now offers holidays beyond our hotels. The holidays below will allow you to stretch your legs a little further while still enjoying the warmth and fellowship that makes a Christian Guild holiday unique.
blAck forest: walKing & SightsEEing departing 18th september 2011. 7 days, £840 (incl. flights)
Closing date for bookings: 13th june
IsrAel & THe holy lANd
fe w l a s t ce s ! pl a
departing 7th november 2011. 10 days from £1350
For more information and a full itinerary, or to book your place on any of these holidays please contact: Derwent House, Cromford, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 5JG Telephone 01629 580550 Web: www.christianguild.co.uk/further
Become a shareholder
Christian Guild is supporting the Bible Society’s biblefresh initiative, marking 400 years since the publication of the King James Bible. To mark this historic event, we have organised two five-day breaks in partnership with the Bible Society:
Willersley Castle Hotel 31st October – 4th November 2011 tel: 01629 582270 email: willersley@christianguild.co.uk
Sidholme Hotel 5th – 9th December 2011
tel: 01395 515104 email: sidholme@christianguild.co.uk Day visitors are welcome - contact the hotels for details
WHY not become even more involved with Christian Guild by becoming a shareholder? Buying shares in the company not only gives you the chance to invest in the company, but you’ll also qualify for some great benefits. Every shareholder is given a 5% discount on holidays, and there are also discounted shareholder holidays as well as a discounted shareholder weekend at Willersley Castle for the annual general meeting. Shares are valued at £5 and the minimum investment is £250. For more information, email info@christianguild.co.uk or write to Christian Guild, Derwent House, Cromford, Matlock DE4 5JG.
Methodist Heritage Tours plan for 2012 TWO great new Methodist Heritage Tours are being planned for 2012. Programmes and itineraries are currently being worked on for the holidays in July and September. The first holiday will be based in Cornwall in July. The second holiday – in September – will be based at two centres: our own Willersley Castle Hotel in Derbyshire and the Raven Hall Hotel near Whitby. If you would like more information on these superb heritage holidays, then please contact Sarah Askew at Derwent House on 01629 580550.