Christian Guild Christian Guild
HOTELS • HOLIDAYS • CONFERENCES
newslet ter : september 2013
WELCOME
Welcome to the latest Christian Guild Newsletter. We have had a fantastic summer and that’s led to a brilliant year for Christian Guild. When the sun shines this country has everything we need and more for a great summer holiday. Whether you love coast or country, we have some wonderful places in the UK, and at Christian Guild we have a collection of fabulous hotels in brilliant locations – either deep in country grounds or close to sandy beaches. As well as welcoming back many familiar faces (which is something we love to do), this year has seen a large number of new guests. We really hope that everyone who came in 2013 heads back to Christian Guild soon. We’d be delighted to welcome you back for Christmas and New Year. It’s an ideal way of enjoying a stress-free holiday, where you don’t have to worry about whether the turkey’s cooked or if you’ve got enough food should unexpected visitors arrive. But be quick, because there’s limited availability over the festive period. We’re already thinking about next year’s summer. We’ve lined up a host of fun-packed themed breaks and holidays throughout 2014 and hope to see you soon enjoying one of them. Not everyone wants a full itinerary, of course, and that’s why we’ve introduced Stay As You Please. It’s just like having a personal tour guide – you contact your chosen hotel and an expert member of staff will advise you on local attractions to visit and, in some cases, arrange passes. It means you get full flexibility to do your own thing. And should you decide one day that you like the sound of a themed break taking place in the hotel during your stay, you can always pay the modest daily fee to join in. It’s all part of Christian Guild’s commitment to providing the holiday and break you want. I know everyone here looks forward to welcoming you soon. Kevin Mantle, Managing Director
Christmas
Early payment discount
for all the
Christian Guild already offers superb value for money on its holidays and breaks. But if you are able to pay early, then you can take advantage of a super offer. If you pay at least six months before the start of your holiday, you will be given a 4% discount!
family
take a SHARE IN CHRISTIAN GUILD You can get involved with Christian Guild through buying shares. As well as a great investment for you, there are also many offers available to shareholders, including discounts of up to 10% on Christian Guild holidays, and the opportunity to attend annual general meetings with the board and management. If you’d like to find out more about shares, or increase your current shareholding, then please contact contact Sarah Askew at Head Office, 2nd Floor, Building 10, Cromford Mills, Cromford, Derbyshire, DE4 3RQ or email sarah@christianguild.co.uk.
Holidays Further Afield in 2014 As well as boasting a fantastic collection of hotels, Christian Guild also offers our guests superb holidays Further Afield. This year we have exciting trips planned to the Isles of Scilly, the Isle of Wight, Norway, the Rhine Valley, and the Greek island of Samos. To find out more about these very popular holidays, take a look at p38-39 of our 2014 brochure, telephone 01629 826531, or visit www.christianguild.co.uk/further.
Why not try something different for Christmas and New Year? Celebrate the festive season with Christian Guild at one of our welcoming Christian hotels. Christmas breaks at our classic collection of hotels let you sit back and share fellowship with like-minded people while we take care of organising your traditional Christmas with all the trimmings. Whether you decide to stay for Christmas or New Year, you’ll be able to enjoy an all inclusive stay that includes hot buffet breakfasts, delicious lunches and mouthwatering three-course dinners. If you choose to stay with us for your Christmas break, then we’ll take care of all the entertainment. Why not enjoy carols around a roaring log fire, or games, entertainment and local excursions? Whatever you choose, there’s something for the whole family. We also ensure a certain Mr Claus gives everyone a gift and there are classic films to watch to make this a wonderful, traditional Christmas. Or why not ring in the New Year with us at one of our stunning and historic hotels? You’ll enjoy a wonderful gala dinner, countdown to midnight with family and friends and join us for a rousing chorus of Auld Lang Syne.
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.
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t has been a very busy year here at Abbot Hall Hotel. As well as offering a host of our popular, traditional holidays, we’ve introduced an array of new breaks – and they have been warmly welcomed. Our poetry break with Kim and Jennifer was a massive success, and we’re planning another in April 2014. Guests who joined us for Hidden Gardens and Quirky Cumbria thoroughly enjoyed the break, so we’ll be organising that fascinating holiday again next year. Make sure to book quickly, because spaces will be limited. The summer was fantastic! As well as welcome warm sunshine, we held a number of fun-filled holidays for children, including Pirates of the Bay, Animal Adventures, Wild West and our ever popular Teen Week. Our new social events organiser, Sarah, and the team here worked very hard with our hosts to ensure guests had a wonderful, memorable holiday. A number of groups were welcomed to our hotel, and a highlight for me was welcoming CAPUK (Christians Against Poverty) and founder John Kirby. There were inspirational workshops and several people made the decision to become Christians. For more information about CAPUK, visit www.capuk.org. We still have some availability for the autumn and winter months, including Christmas and New Year, but make sure to book as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss out! We are always happy to welcome new guests and old friends to Abbot Hall, and look forward to welcoming you soon.
Best wishes Amanda Fogg, General Manager
Abbot Hall Hotel
south lakes, cumbria. 015395 32896
HALF-TERM WITH GUILD FAMILY BONUS It may not seem too long ago that children went back to school after their long summer break. But half-term will soon be here, so why not keep your children entertained during our special half-term break from 27 October - 1 November. All under-16s go free - so it’s really great value too!
SPECIAL RATE Winter in Cumbria and the Lake District is a breathtaking experience, and Abbot Hall’s special Guild rate nights from 3-8 and 10-15 November will really take your breath away. Enjoy a half-board holiday for just £42 per person per night, and if you decide to have a day at the hotel, why not join either a beading and watercolour painting or patchworking and quilting for a small additional fee.
WINTER WARMER Immerse yourself in the stunning winter setting of Cumbria and enjoy a warm feeling when you receive a special guild price of £40 per person per night for a half-board break during 24-29 November.
DECEMBER DEALS Christian Guild is known for its generosity – and we’re giving an early Christmas gift to loyal Guild guests at Abbot Hall in December. If you book any number of nights between 1-22 December, you’ll be able to stay at a special half-board rate of just £35 per person per night. You’ll really get into the swing of Christmas with themed evenings, including traditional Christmas dinners. It’s an ideal way of getting together with friends and family that you may not see over the festive holiday.
FUN AND FELLOWSHIP Meet new friends and relax with like-minded people during this fantastic week from 6-11 October. With an evening programme and the chance to relax in our grounds or indoor pool, this is fantastic for all over-50s who want to socialise.
RELAXATION AND FELLOWSHIP Sit back and enjoy five nights of relaxation and fellowship in the beautiful grounds of Abbot Hall. The half-board holiday takes place from 13-18 October for just £180. If you can't take that much time out, why not come along for a night or two at £42 per night.
COUNTRY DANCING If you love country dancing you won’t want to miss this week from 20-25 October with expert tuition from Roy McCullough. Each day you’ll learn new dances if you’re a beginner, or freshen your knowledge if you’re used to stepping out.
100 YEARS OF MARRIED LIFE Three couples from the same family celebrated 100 years of marriage between them at a special party at Abbot Hall in the summer. John Fogg and his wife Mary marked their 50th anniversary at the same time as two of their children reached their silver anniversaries. Son Philip and his wife Amanda, and daughter Janice and son-in-law Brian Jackson celebrated their 25 years of marriage. While the couples were married at different times of the year, they decided to hold a joint party to mark all three days together.
Willersley Castle Hotel derbyshire dales
01629 582270
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illersley Castle has been a hive of activity over the past eight months. We have welcomed many familiar faces and new ones too. We always strive to give the best in hospitality and fellowship – and we always try to offer themed breaks for all interests, which have been thoroughly enjoyed by our guests. As well as our firm favourites, we are planning new exciting and interesting breaks for 2014. For example, we’re introducing Willersley Goes Wild, based on the BBC Springwatch programme, and we have a range of coach holidays for next year too! We hope that next summer will be as warm as last. It was an amazing summer after such a long winter and a bit of a washout summer in the previous two years! But it doesn’t matter what the weather’s like – Willersley Castle has something for all seasons. We hope to welcome you soon, and if you haven’t visited us yet, I hope some of the breaks I’ve included here will tempt you to try this majestic, historic hotel on the edge of the Peak District. Best wishes, Kevin George, General Manager
ENLIGHTENING ILLUMINATIONS OFFER! Forget Blackpool! Matlock Bath has been hosting its spectacular Illuminations for 116 years. And as Matlock Bath is on the doorstep of Willersley Castle, you can enjoy this spectacular event during a fantastic stay at a historic hotel. The Matlock Bath Illuminations take place in September and October, and feature a display of illuminated and decorated boats that offer an amazing spectacle as they appear to glide into the darkness. On certain Saturday nights, there’s also a fantastic firework display at 9pm. These will take place on October 5, 12, 19 and 26. We do still have some availability at Willersley Castle during the illuminations – please contact the hotel for more information and to book.
HALF-TERM DISCOUNTS AND FUN With fun swims, mini raft racing and a host of other activities, children will love the October half-term break from 27 October – 1 November at Willersley Castle. As well as offering lots to keep the little ones occupied, there are some fantastic kids discounts available that will even make the parents glad it’s half-term!
SUNDAY B&B ROAST OFFER Willersley Castle has a fantastic offer for the night of Sunday 3 November that is perfect for trying out the hotel’s luxurious rooms and fantastic food. For just £25 per person, you can enjoy a perfect Sunday Roast, a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast! Book quickly to avoid disappointment.
LOG FIRES & CHURCH SPIRES For hundreds of years, churches have been built to glorify God, and near Willersley Castle we have some wonderful church buildings. Our Log Fires & Church Spires break – from 17-22 November – will take you on a fascinating journey to our local churches with four luxury coach excursions arranged for you. And once you’ve finished exploring, we’ll welcome you back to the Castle for hot drinks in the drawing room, where a roaring log fire will be waiting.
ADVENT FAMILY BREAK Get ready for Christmas with our brilliant Advent Family Break that will give you the chance to prepare for the festive season. Whether you’re on your own or with family, the holiday is perfect for all ages. You’ll be able to make an advent calendar, decorations and cards during your stay, between 28 November – 1 December. There’s also festive fun swims and a Christmas packed lunch for your way home – and all for £99 per person. That means you’re getting three nights for the price of two!
THE PEN AND CAMERA CLUB Almost 60 members of the historic Pen and Camera Club attended a successful weekend reunion and AGM at Willersley Castle earlier this year. An exhibition of prints in the library and projected images in the music were well received during the weekend. The memorial lecture was given by the renowned photographer Dave Coates and his wife Sheila, who displayed and talked about their magnificent collection of images of a visit to the USA. If you are interested in finding out more about the club, which celebrates its 110th anniversary next year, and would like to become a member please visit www.penandcamera.org.uk or contact the General Secretary, Bob Winter, at bobwinter@bobwinter.plus.com, or call 0191 386 5872.
DESIRABLE DERBYSHIRE IN DECEMBER Things don’t slow down for Christmas in beautiful Derbyshire! Whether you want to explore the stunning Dales or Peak District, or enjoy ice skating or rolling back the years with the hilarious team from Horrible Histories at Derby Playhouse, there is lots to do. During your stay our team will guide you to place of interest you may well have missed in the past. Our Desirable Derbyshire breaks run from 9–14 and 15–20 December at the most desirable price of just £30 per person per night for dinner, bed and breakfast. Plus, there’s no minimum stay.
Treloyhan Manor Hotel
st ives, cornwall. 01736 796240
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he fantastic weather, courtesy of our Gulf Stream climate, helped 2013 become one of the most successful summer seasons we’ve had at Treloyhan Manor during my time here. It looks like the rest of the year will be just as busy and we’ll have a great start to 2014. At Treloyhan Manor, we’re ready to welcome you no matter what type of break you want: from a short break to a weekend, or a longer holiday or themed break. And we’re also the perfect venue for your wedding, conference or group holiday. Treloyhan Manor sits on the edge of the pretty town of St Ives and overlooks Carbis Bay, so you will be assured of some stunning scenery. During autumn, the views change and it’s perfect for seeing wildlife you may not get to see during summer. A wander across the sand on a sunny autumnal day or crisp, clear winter’s morning will always be memorable. Fewer visitors mean it’s a much more tranquil time of year. With good deals and lots of themed breaks, you’ll have plenty of choice to make sure your autumn or winter break is one to enjoy and remember. Best wishes, Kieran Lynch, General Manager
OCTOBER STAY AS YOU PLEASE We are always proud of the exciting themed breaks we offer, but we understand that sometimes you want to visit an area to explore it for yourself. With Stay As You Please from Christian Guild, we will help ensure you get to see the things you want to. With lots of ideas and information, Stay As You Please is like having your own, personal tour guide! We would be delighted to welcome you for Stay As You Please breaks from 9–19 and 23–27 October. At £45 per person per night, they’re fantastic deal that are bound to quickly book up.
WINTER STROLLS Throughout December we offer great ideas to help you get the most of being in the crisp Cornish air with some sensational strolls. Or join our leader lead holiday from 30 November – 7 December at a special rate. Contact the hotel for more information, or visit www.christianguild.co.uk.
MAGICAL ST IVES IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER Being able to holiday out of season is a real bonus – because you can get to see the places easily that others have to queue for during school holidays. And because St Ives and the corner of Cornwall that Treloyhan occupies, you’ll see some superb sights peacefully at a more leisurely and relaxing pace. Between November 16 and December 21, Treloyhan is offering a special deal at just £35 per person per night for a fantastic half-board break. There is a host of things to do within St Ives during November and December if you decide not to venture too far. During December festive fun can be had with a range of activities. There’s too much to list, but the events include: • Fair Mo at the Parish Church with pig roast and craft stalls and the launch of the town’s Treasure Hunt (Dec 1) • Santa’s arrival by lifeboat and a Jingle Parade from the Harbour (Dec 6) • Christmas lights switch-on (Dec 7) • Santa Party Train from St Erth to St Ives (Dec 8 & 15) • Carols on the beach (Dec 20)
CELEBRATE SCOTLAND’S SAINT Treloyhan Manor always enjoys marking St Andrew’s Day – but we like to really celebrate everything about Scotland. This seven-night break – from 23–30 November – includes a host of activities that are not to be missed, such as Scottish dancing and haggis! You are welcome to stay in the hotel without taking part in the activities at the normal tariff. However, if you later add activities, then the cost is £15 per day extra.
PAINTING WEEK Award-winning artist Ron Bailey and beadwork expert Barbara Bailey lead this stimulating week from 2–7 March 2014. No matter what your ability, you’ll soon be painting the beautiful Cornish coast in watercolours. The price includes materials and tuition.
NEW TECH AT TRELOYHAN Flatscreen TVs and superfast broadband wi-fi is now on offer at Treloyhan Manor Hotel. It means your stay will be even better value.
Lindors Country House Hotel wye valley. 01594 530283
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e had a summer of celebration at Lindors! It’s 60 years since the Methodist Guild – our predcessor – bought Lindors House for Christian holidays. We had a wonderful time marking our Diamond Jubilee with guests from around the country. It was a real pleasure welcoming all those who attended. One of the guests was given an especially warm welcome – as they actually enjoyed a holiday at Lindors in the year it was bought by Methodist Guild! It really has been a fantastic year – and many of the breaks we added for 2013 have been a big success. In April, we enjoyed a Cities, Cathedrals and Castle break and covered four counties in five days! In May, 25 guests had a fascinating holiday during the National Trust break and visited four country houses. It was so popular we’ve added it to our 2014 brochure, from 11-16 May. We welcomed a number of new staff members during 2013, so please join me in welcoming Aaron and Jim to the gardens team, and also Catherine, who is our new Head Chef. Lindors achieved Investors in People recognition. The award recognises the commitment from Christian Guild and the hotel management in developing our most important asset – our staff. I’m very proud of everyone in the team for their efforts. For 2014 we have a host of interesting holiday ideas and great offers so you get even better value from your Christian Guild holiday. You’ll find some mentioned here, and remember the whole year’s breaks are included in the new brochure and on the website. I’m looking forward to welcoming guests new and old, and hope to see you soon. Many thanks, Neil Heaven, General Manager
AUTUMN FELLOWSHIP BREAK Lindors Country House Hotel boasts some stunning gardens – and our new gardeners are planning to take guests on a guided tour to share their knowledge around the grounds during a fabulous autumnal break. During this fantastic holiday – between 13–18 October – there will also be an excursion to enjoy the breathtaking autumn colours of the superb Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean. Contact Lindors for more details and make sure you book soon to avoid disappointment.
TREE-MENDOUS OFFER! Walking in the woods as they change in time for winter is an experience that lives long in the memory. So make your way to the awe-inspiring scenery of the Forest of Dean and its beautiful beech trees by booking a break at Lindors from 10–29 November. Guests who stay between those dates will be able to enjoy a special Guild price of just £40 per person per night. You’ll also be able to enjoy afternoon tea each day too. And make sure you book soon, as availability is limited.
COMPLIMENTARY DINNER with lodges Lindors boasts five self-catering lodges which make a fabulous base from which to do your own thing and explore the Welsh borders area around the hotel. And if you take a threenight lodge break between 1–4 November you will receive complimentary dinner for two on the last night. At just £190 for the holiday, that’s fantastic value not to be missed.
IT’S CHRISTMAS! Get ready for Christmas by enjoying a break at Lindors where you can enjoy festive fare and also visit some fantastic events. There will be themed Christmas evenings each night, including traditional Christmas dinners. You will also be able to enjoy afternoon tea each day. At a special half-board rate of just £40 per person per night if you book between December 1–20, it’s a great way of meeting friends and family who you may not be able to catch up with over the holidays. There’s always plenty to enjoy near Lindors too. So why not step out and visit: • The Christmas Fair at The Blake Theatre, Monmouth (Dec 7) • The Blake Theatre for a fabulous night of music with the Welsh Chamber Orchestra (Dec 10) • The Emmy Award-winning performance of Falstaff (Dec 14) also at The Blake Theatre • W halebone’s Runes Tour at Bishopwood Village Hall (Dec 7) • Chopin Inspirations with the Ross Classical Muisc Society at Christchurch, Ross-on-Wye (Dec 9) • Christmas buffet lunch and readings of Christmas and Winter extracts at Bridstow Village Hall, Ross-on-Wye (Dec 7). Whatever you do, you can’t beat the build-up to Christmas at Lindors Country House Hotel.
Sidholme Hotel sidmouth, devon. 01395 515104
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he unspoilt natural beauty of Sidmouth is accentuated by its town centre – because it isn’t as commercialised as most. And that means you’ll find something different here. Whether you love coastline, country, Britain in Bloomwinning gardens or relaxing with a slow stroll around boutique shops, Sidmouth really does have something for everyone. After a busy summer, and with Christmas looming large, taking a break from the hustle and bustle could be just what you need. Sidmouth is a great location for recharging your batteries. The promenade is quiet with wonderful fresh sea air and quintessential West Country charm. December is a great time to visit the shops, as they are bedecked by beautiful Christmas decorations and the Regency streets take on a festive look with their illuminations. Speaking of the festive season, I recommend booking our Exeter Christmas Market break (with free entry into the spectacular Exeter Cathedral). Make sure you do soon as availability is limited. If the idea of chilly nights mean your thoughts have already turned towards summer 2014, then Sidmouth should be on your list. With its celebrated Folk Festival Week, the town becomes a sea of vibrant colour and superb sounds. This year guests flocked to Sidholme Hotel to enjoy a fabulous festival. Many thanks and best wishes, James Sharp, General Manager
UNDER-10s STAY FOR FREE Shorter days during the autumn half-term break can make occupying inquisitive young minds difficult. But as Sidholme Hotel is near some wonderful attractions, such as the Jurassic Coast, it’s the perfect place to visit over the holiday week. Children aged 10 and under can stay for free (one per paying adult) during the break, from 27 October – 1 November, so it’s also great value for the whole family.
RUFFLE SOME FEATHERS Visit the RSPB reserve of Bowling Green Marsh and don’t forget your binoculars when you go to Seaton Marsh Local Nature Reserve during this delightful break with expert twitcher Richard Preston. The five night break, from 24–29 November, includes transport to the start of guided birdwatching walks.
RING IN THE NEW
BRILLIANT WINTER WARMER DEAL Take the chill out of winter with a wonderful Winter Warmer Stay As You Please deal at Sidholme that’s tough to beat. For just £35 per person per night any time between 17 November – 21 December, you’ll enjoy a mouth-watering evening meal, the chance to relax in Sidholme’s fabulous hotel, a great night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast. AND on top of all that, visit between the 21 November – 15 December and you’ll be able to visit Exeter’s Christmas Market, with free entry into the cathedral! Be quick to book, the last Winter Warmer was very popular!
Welcome in 2014 at Sidholme Hotel with friends new and old. If you prefer to do something interesting during the week between Christmas and New Year, then this magnificent break also means you can chat and explore the Devon seaside town of Sidmouth. There aren’t many rooms left for this fantastic five-night break from 28 December – 2 January 2014, which includes a panto trip and daily afternoon tea.
FOLK IS FUN Folk music has undergone a bit of a renaissance recently, and it’s hardly surprising as its down-to-earth lyrics and fun themes make it a musical genre for all ages. And if you play an instrument but have never ventured into folk music, here’s a great opportunity to have a laugh while playing. For those who have never picked up an instrument, there is also the chance for choral singing with Geoffrey and Barbara Todd. We’re also offering a great deal with this break, which runs from 13–18 October, because if you book for the five nights you’ll only be paying for four!
READY FOR TAKE OFF Let’s go fly a kite! That’s exactly what a group of young guests at Sidholme did when the Mother’s Union took part in some summer fun. The theme was Flying Around and everyone who attended, of all ages, had a fantastic time at the hotel.