Christian Guild Christian Guild
HOTELS • HOLIDAYS • CONFERENCES
octobe r 2011
WELCOME
2012 at 2011 prices! Staying at a Christian Guild hotel for a couple of nights, a themed break or a longer holiday has always been magnificent value. And it will be even better next year – because we’ve frozen our brochure prices on half-board tariffs. If you decide to stay at any one of our five superb hotels next year – from country houses to a Georgian castle – you’ll be able to stay in great locations with fabulous grounds at the same half-board rate as this year. We also still offer a better rate of interest than the banks. If you pay for your holiday in full at least six months in advance and save 4% – this applies to holidays that start before 1 December 2012. We continue to offer our Redundancy Cover at no charge to you, so you can book your holiday with confidence knowing all monies will be refunded should you need to cancel your holiday. Contact your chosen hotel today to book your break.
Holidays and breaks may seem like a world away now that summer has gone! But at Christian Guild, we believe you should be able to enjoy a holiday or short break throughout the year, and that’s why we work hard to bring you fantastic holidays every week of the year that don’t break the bank. Each of our classic hotels offer something for all tastes, whether that’s music and dancing, arts and crafts or walking breaks.
At Christian Guild, we believe that choice is paramount, which is why you can always tailor our breaks to suit you.
And of course, if you don’t wish to take part in those activities, it doesn’t mean you can’t stay at your choice of hotel – because you can book at any hotel for 366 days of the year. Whether it’s for a week or weekend to get away from things or just an overnight stay, Christian Guild hotels are always ready to give you a warm welcome.
As autumn is upon us and winter is around the corner, we’re sure you’ll appreciate that warm welcome! There’s nothing better than relaxing in front of our roaring log fires after a walk in the crisp autumnal air. So please take a look through this newsletter to find your ideal break.
MRDF appeal - thank you! In June we launched an appeal to support the Methodist Relief & Development Fund’s work with the Dalit community in India. A big thank you to all our guests who responded and helped raise almost £2000 which will help Dalits to access training and small loans, and make a decent living.
It’s packed full of offers and special late deals that mean you’ll get even more value for money from your holiday! Kevin Mantle Managing Director
RAYMOND ALLINGTON: 16 May 1927 – 7 July 2011 Former Christian Guild Director and Chairman Raymond Allington has died after falling while on holiday in Italy earlier this year. Raymond, 84, was enjoying a holiday at Cannero Riviera on Lake Maggiore in July when the incident happened. He will be remembered for being instrumental in changing Christian Guild properties from spartan hostels to fully carpeted en-suite accommodation during his directorship. He trained as a heating engineer and formed his own consultancy with the help of his beloved wife, Madeline, and during this time he worked for the Willersley Company. contact details Derwent House (Head Office) ������������������� 01629 580550 Abbot Hall Hotel ��������������������������������������������� 015395 32896 Lindors Country House Hotel ��������������������� 01594 530283
Raymond was then invited to join the Board as a non-executive Director in 1982. Shortly afterwards, he was made a Director of the Abbot Hall Company. It was during his time as Vice Chairman that he was able to negotiate the merging of the two companies with the London Company. Raymond then became Chairman of the combined group in 1993. Raymond’s strong Christian faith guided him through his professional and private dealings, which made it a pleasure for Directors and staff to work with him. Christian Guild Managing Director Kevin Mantle said: “It is with great sadness that we report Raymond’s passing. Raymond continued to support the company in many ways since his retirement from the board, and on behalf of our Directors, staff and guests, we offer our deepest sympathy to all the family.”
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.
Half-term deals for youngsters at abbot hall (23 – 28 October) With the half-term break just around the corner, why not take advantage of some brilliant deals at Abbot Hall Hotel so you can enjoy a much-needed rest in the beautiful autumnal colours of the Lake District? Children under the age of 10 will be able to stay for free during half-term week. Parents of 11 to 15 year olds will be able to take advantage of a 75% reduction in the full price per person for them, while 16 to 17-year-olds also enjoy a 50% reduction in the full price per person. Contact Abbot Hall on 015395 32896 to find out more and to book your room today.
a great half term deal in devon (23 – 28 October) After the hectic pace of a new school term and summer all but a distant memory, October half term is perfect for recharging your batteries before winter sets in. October half term at Sidholme Hotel will be one to remember with a full programme of activities for youngsters. As well as much-loved traditional games and crafts, there will be the chance to join trips to local attractions as well as taking part in a new Super Spy Game. Both activities are available at a small extra cost. Parents will be delighted to know that all children under the age of 10 can stay for free, while those between the age of 11 and 17 pay for just the B&B rate for half-board during the week.
s Autumn Offer
£25 per night deal at Abbot Hall (6–18 November)
Free night’s stay on Heritage Week (6 – 11 November)
As the cost of living rises and Christmas is closing in, those who like a bargain will be delighted with a superb offer from Abbot Hall Hotel. Anyone who books a non en-suite bungalow room from November 6–18 will pay just £25 for per night! With a stunning setting, beautiful grounds and easy access to the Lake District’s superb walks and interesting towns, it’s a deal not to be missed. Book now to make sure you don’t miss out.
The splendour and fascinating history of Lindors Country House Hotel will be the subject of a fantastic break. Local historians will explain how this remarkable 19th century building in the Wye Valley came about, and how the area it stands on stretches back to the 14th century. The week is a treat for anyone who loves history and architecture, and with a fantastic ‘free night’ deal, it’s great value too - pay for just four nights for the five-night break! At just £228 for halfboard, it’s a fantastic deal not to be missed. Why not bring some friends and book a pine lodge in the grounds and enjoy a half-board stay for just £250 per person?
Picture this – free lunch! (6 – 11 November) Get professional results with your digital photographs when a local expert shares his knowledge during a fantastic break at Sidholme Hotel. The Digital Photo Enhancement break is perfect for all those who want to manipulate images and learn the secrets of enhancement used by top magazines. Expert Paul Clayden is on hand and will show you the ropes with Adobe Photoshop Elements V8. Paul asks that people booking bring a laptop if they have one. And to add to this brilliant break, if you quote ARB4 when you book, Sidholme will offer you a free lunch each day. Please note, this offer is valid for new bookings only and terms and conditions apply.
Abbot Hall Hotel Lindors Country House Hotel Sidholme Hotel
015395 32896 01594 530283 01395 515104
Step out and get crafty! (20 – 25 November) There’s nothing as refreshing as a walk in the crisp autumnal air while enjoying breathtaking scenery in one of England’s national parks. For those who love nothing better, Willersley Castle Hotel has the perfect break with our Winter Walks & Crafts holiday. Once you return, you can sit back and relax with opportunities to socialise in the evenings. If you don’t feel like taking part in the walks and want to enjoy this classic hotel, the holiday, which takes place from 20 – 25 November, also offers a wide range of craft activities. Book now to avoid disappointment.
Treloyhan Manor Hotel 01736 796240 Willersley Castle Hotel 01629 582270 www.christianguild.co.uk
Break’s just ‘two’ good! (27 November – 2 December) Christian Guild hotels love to pack in plenty for everyone – and our Kesher Course and Musical Theatre Week break at Willersley Castle proves just that. The dual-activity week includes the chance to explore the Jewish roots of Christianity on the Kesher Course, run by a team from the Churches Ministry amongst Jewish people (CMJ). Meanwhile, those who love musicals will be able to enjoy our Musical Theatre Week, where you’ll visit a local theatre (at a small additional cost) and explore the music and history. Guests taking part in either break will meet each evening for socials and fellowship – so the dual-activity break is an ideal way of meeting new people.
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Garden party raises cash for organ fund A garden party was held at Sidholme Hotel in the summer and raised £500 towards the Organ Restoration Fund, which now stands at just over £2700. The hotel boasts a magnificent music room and pipe organ, which is in need of renovation. As well as stalls and games, local musicians put on live performances to entertain more than 150 people. The weather stayed fine until the final hour, when guests and local residents who attended moved to the music room itself to round off the fabulous July afternoon. Plans are being made to repeat the garden party next year as part of jubilee year, so look out for more details, or contact the hotel if you’d like to make sure you don’t miss out.
Lindors ‘value weekendS’ (11 – 14 November & 16 – 19 December) Lindors Country House Hotel is offering unbeatable value on two weekend stays in November and December. You would struggle to find another country house hotel that offers such a beautiful setting at such a magnificent price. If you book a three-night half-board stay from 11 – 14 November, or from 16 – 18 December, you pay just £125 per person. And don’t worry if you can’t make it for the Friday nights, because Lindors is also offering two-night Saturday to Monday stays on those weekends for just £99! Book now to avoid disappointment!
Winter Warmer s
Wild West comes to Sidholme Guests will be able to sample a view of the Wild West at Sidholme Hotel. A wig-wam structure has been built in the grounds of the hotel following the Wild West Family Fun Week. It was built to demonstrate weaving with willow, and young and old alike joined in the fun. Make sure you book a stay at Sidholme to see the result of the day-long activity.
D
on’t get the winter blues, because we have a great offer to warm your heart.
Our Winter Warmers offer means you can book an en-suite room at any of our hotels for just £35pppn on selected dates between now and 21 December, and from 2 January to 10 February.
Ensuite rooms for just £35
minimum 2 nights stay. contact hotels for details and availability.
Hotel is venue for charity’s special break John Kirby, the founder of debt charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP), and his wife Lizzie were welcomed to Abbot Hall this summer when the hotel was chosen to be the venue for one of the charity’s discovery breaks. The breaks are organised by CAP and made up of more than twenty paid and volunteer workers, who organise social events, pamper parties, days out and counselling session for people struggling with debt problems. During the holiday twelve people gave their lives to the Lord. For more information about CAP, visit www.capuk.org
Christmas & New Year
Turkey and tinsel gets you in the festive mood (5 – 9 December and 12 – 16 December)
When it comes to getting ready for Christmas, Christian Guild hotels are renowned for their fantastic Turkey and Tinsel holidays. Willersley Castle has organised some fun-packed activities, which include a ‘Christmas Day’ experience, excursions and a visit to a local panto – which means you’ll leave in a very festive mood. Come along and enjoy Christian fellowship as you get set for this important time of year. And with prices at £54 per person per night full board in a classic castle hotel, our Turkey and Tinsel breaks are stuffed full with value!
Pre-Christmas crackers – stay for half price! (9 – 21 December) December is the month for giving – and the Sidholme Hotel team are getting into the festive spirit by giving guests an early Christmas deal that’s crackers! If you book your stay between December 9 and 21, you’ll be able to stay for half price! That’s right, 50 per cent off the normal price for both en-suite and non en-suite rooms. Sidholme is the perfect place to unwind before the busy Christmas festivities. You can relax after a day of Christmas shopping in front of crackling log fires – and that will really help you get in the festive mood.
Celebrate Christmas at Treloyhan (22 – 27 December) Christmas at home is great, but sometimes it’s better to relax and let others take the trouble of all the arrangements. At Treloyhan, there’s the chance to celebrate the Christmas holiday in St Ives, Cornwall, with good food and fellowship in the wonderful 19th century manor house, which boasts log fires and sumptuous bedrooms.
A real taste of Christmas
Fantastic Christmas menus packed full of local food and great value are now on offer at Willersley Castle. Many groups and individuals have already booked their Christmas meals at the hotel in Derbyshire. The castle can cater for any number of guests in the wonderful setting of the historic castle. If you would like to enjoy the experience and join the fun, contact Willersley Castle today to discuss your requirements.
mini christmas break (4 – 9 December) Take time out at Abbot Hall before a hectic Christmas with seasonal fellowship and crafts, creating those last minute decorations and cards. Join us in this Mini Christmas Break with all the Christmas trimmings and a whole lot more, for just £40 pppn half-board in an ensuite room.
Christmas Party Nights Groups who want to organise Christmas Party Nights can enjoy a top class venue at Treloyhan Manor Hotel – but be quick as bookings are fast being made! As well as mouth-watering dishes, you can relax and look out across the St Ives Harbour lights as you celebrate Christmas 2011.
That’s fresh! Freshly ground coffee is now available at all our hotels, so you can enjoy a fresh bean-to-cup coffee. The hotels and restaurants now use Fairtrade coffee brand Puro, which can be enjoyed with a host of indulgent sweets and snacks.
Visits commemorated Children from Chernobyl presented Treloyhan Manor Hotel with a classic pottery ornament to commemorate their visits over the past few years. The hotel has played host to visits to help the children come to terms with the nuclear disaster.
Organisers go FREE!
Free night’s stay!
Organisers of group holidays at Treloyhan Manor Hotel can go free – thanks to a fantastic offer. Organisers who book dates between now and March 2012 can take advantage of the offer. For more details, contact the hotel on 01736 796240.
Book a three-night stay at Treloyhan Manor Hotel and you will be given a fourth night absolutely free! The hotel has organised the special deal for anyone who books a stay between October and December. Contact the hotel for more details.
the great lindors cook-off
Celebrating your Wedding reception or special occasion in a beautiful castle surrounded by stunning grounds and scenery, may sound like something from a fairy tale, but at Willersley Castle Hotel your dreams really can come true. Following their wedding reception at Willersley Castle Hotel in August this year, Matthew and Clare said ‘With beautiful surroundings, a brass band playing when guests arrived to drinks and canapés, a delicious meal in the grandeur of the historic castle followed by an evening celebration with family and friends; it could not have been more perfect.’ If you would like to find out more about holding your wedding reception or special event at Willersley Castle Hotel please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss how we can make your special day into a truly memorable occasion for everyone. • The management team would like to take this opportunity to wish Matthew and Clare every happiness for the future.
By Royal appointment! One of Willersley Castle’s longest serving team members was asked to accompany royalty to a special celebration of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. Tom Nicholls joined HRH The Earl of Wessex when he recently visited the outdoor learning and personal development facility, the Lea Green Centre in Matlock. Tom has achieved both Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. To achieve this, he helped in the community as a volunteer in local schools, pursued skills by learning sign language, did physical activities and took part in expeditions.
Local treats on the menu
image: dee gregory photography
wedding reception – A dream come true!
The first ever Lindors Manager v Chef Ready Steady Cook style challenge took place during the recent food and drink week. Neil and Richard were given a surprise bag of goodies, with 10 minutes to plan and 35 minutes to prepare the dishes. Richard cooked up a pasta carbonara, tagliatelli with chicken breast and a Mediterranean sauce, and figs with a warm caramel sauce. Neil went all out with the spices and cooked up a paella Valencia, mussels in a Thai broth and figs with balsamic syrup and Tintern cheese. There was no surprise who won as Chef Richard, with over 20 years experience at Lindors, took 70% of the votes. Asked about his crushing defeat, Neil replied “I’m gutted! Richard is a worthy winner but I’ll get my own back next year!” During the week guests sampled a fine selection of local cheeses and a selection of exotic meats such as zebra, springbok, bison, rattlesnake and kangaroo! Be sure to book into next year's Food & Drink Week from 23 – 28 September 2012 to see if Richard can make it two in a row!
Local produce is always a treat to find on your menu when you go on holiday or short break, and at Willersley Castle you can enjoy some delicious delicacies thanks to head chef Gareth Dominey’s search to find Derbyshire’s best food. You will now regularly find traditional Bakewell Puddings direct from nearby Bakewell, local cheese from Hartington, and fresh homemade cakes on Willersley’s menu.
Trains through the Valleys 10 – 15 June 2012
Christian Guild is supporting the biblefresh initiative, marking 400 years since the publication of the King James Bible. We have organised a five-day break in partnership with the Bible Society with the Rev. Rob Cotton and contributions from Paul Field and Freddie Kofi:
Willersley Castle Hotel 31 October – 4 November 2011 tel: 01629 582270 email: willersley@christianguild.co.uk £285. Day visitors are welcome - contact hotel for details
What could be nicer than watching the lovely countryside of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire roll by from the comfort of a railway carriage? That’s what’s on offer from Willersley Castle in June next year. From the steam hauled dining service at the Great Central Railway to the dining car at Consall Forge, a charming isolated station deep in the lovely Churnet Valley, this is a holiday not to be missed. For the rail enthusiasts there will be plenty of interest; for those who like to stretch their legs some optional walks will be included; for those not train-spotting there will be much to enjoy, including a programme of evening entertainment. All this for the special price of £375, including accommodation, all excursions, lunch each day at the railway being visited and coach transfers. Contact Willersley Castle on 01629 582270 for full details.
Holidays further afield in 2012 MethodisT heritage coach tour:
MethodisT heritage coach tour:
St Ives & South-wesT EnglAnd
centrAl & Northern EnglAnd
14 – 21 july 2012. 7 nights from £515
2 – 9 september 2012. 7 nights, £550
he isles of sciLY
floRiade & tHe belgian aRdeNEs
6 – 13 may 2012. 7 nights, £975 (incl. helicopter flights)
3 – 7 september 2012. 4 nights from £489
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