Groups Package Brochure 2013-2014 by Classic Britain

January 2013 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; April 2014

Recommended Group Packages 2013-14

Best G rates a roup ssu All ye red ar round

60 Group Holidays and Short Breaks in 108 Member Hotels

Planning your Tou ... Its the way to go From left to rig

ht: Pamela, An drew, Liam, Be Sibylline, Anne verly, Marie, Mark, Susan and Ric hard

. We have ckages in 2012 pa r ou of y rit 18 of easing popula you for 2013, Due to the incr e are offering w s ur to of r numbe nd’s North expanded the before “Scotla ne do en be r ion as and neve ere is a select them new, such the 1st time th r fo e, or m er lly with . Furth West Passage” gland, specifica eak ideas in En br t or sh d un ill be a hotel of 8 all year ro and always w is c si as Cl d. in min . the travel trade hotel members funded by it’s p, ou gr g e tin ke mar gether to mak ve been put to ha re hu oc br in this tes from The packages t the best of ra hotels. We ge r ou ok bo to close working it easy for you siness and the bu of e m lu vo , so there e to the our hotels, du not wholesale do e w e, or m have. Further tels inside out partnership we e know our ho W n. ai ch e th links in y of our are no added lower than an r prices to be ou d fin s ay w and you will al competitors. have dates e of them. We m so ok bo d our ideas an quired. I hope you like ith others if re n supply you w ca d an n, tio on alloca

Andrew Simps

ctor Managing Dire

Price Pledge Because Classic is funded by its hotel members, there is no need for Agent mark ups. Also, we negotiate extremely good prices guaranteeing you Best Rates at all times.

18 New Tours And 8 exciting themed short breaks. Classic is always on the lookout for interesting ideas to help fill your coaches, and we can “tailor make” products to suit your needs.

Centred Stays With a choice of 108 group orientated hotels in 76 locations, Classic has lots of options available, whether it be for a centred only stay or, an overnight stopover hotel. All at Guaranteed best available group rates. See pages 43 –51.

Mystery Tours They are very popular, allowing you to sell brochured product at a late sell price. Classic has plenty of choice in all UK areas starting from £26 pppn DBB.

Out of Season Ideas On pages 40-42 are Classic’s best selling out of season packages. They are successful because they are well priced, with lots going on, starting at £99 for 4 nts. Our Houseparty brand also includes complimentary tea and biscuits on check-in. There are some new ideas as well such as Medieval Houseparties in North Wales.

Hotels you can rely on It’s essential for our business relationship to thrive for you to be happy with our hotels. For this reason, we spend a lot of time “out on the road” visiting our hotels, to provide you with unbiased 1st hand advice about quality and New Fishers Hotel, Pitloch group suitability. In fact, ry Just comp refurbishmen leted t to a top en d 3 star hotel we go one step further by . providing you with sight of thousands of recent live reviews from Classic’s past guests. You can view them on www.classicbritain.com. If a hotel does not make the minimum grade or falls below our quality threshold, we simply will not represent them. Approved – Hotels which meets Classic’s minimum level of expectation within their star category Commended – Considered to be average or above average within their star rating 1st Class – Awarded to the top end hotels. All areas of the hotel are well above average

Hotel descriptions & guideline group rates on pages 43–51

E: groups@classicbritain.com

urs with Classic Why Choose Classic?

Packages – We know Scotland inside out, the hotels, the attractions, the roads and the worthwhile things to see and do. Classic is without doubt the specialist when it comes to Scotland. We are getting pretty good with ideas in England & Wales as well, with new ideas being added all the time, such as our walking holidays & themed short break programmes.

Payments – Classic does not ask for deposits, requiring payment before arrival, unless credit facilities have been agreed.

Cancellations – 30 days before arrival. If you need extra time to sell, let us know. As a norm, Classic will allocate, an additional 3 extra twin/double rooms for you to use for any late bookers, until 14 days prior to arrival.

Meals – Our hotels will treat your passengers like individuals. Full hot breakfasts and choice 3 course dinners plus coffee are included. Many hotels can offer an individual dining experience. See Pages 43-51 for a list of hotels.

Images – All images can be used free of charge in this brochure. In addition we have lots of others you can use.

Peace of mind – Classic grades and inspects all our hotels for group suitability. In addition you can read thousands of real guest reviews on our website.

Porterage – Most hotels include porterage within the price.

21 22 21 31 18 19 20

22 32

Shetlands

29 38 28 34 27 30 26 27 35 17 35 38 25 36 37 27 41 39 39 40 16 24 38 28

40 10

15 5

40 41

4 13

4 7

13 41

6 6 6

England............................................................................. Page English Short Breaks.................................................................... 4 English Short Breaks.................................................................... 5 Seaside Resorts.......................................................................... 6 Enchanting Olde England............................................................. 7 Scarborough & the Yorkshire Coast.............................................. 8 A Nostalgic Journey through the Derbyshire Peaks........................ 9 Kingdom of Northumbria and the North East............................... 10 Lakeland Explorer...................................................................... 11 Wales Boats, trains of the Welsh Borders and Snowdonia.................... 12 Landscapes of Pembrokeshire (walking).................................... 13 Island Escapes Jersey by Sea........................................................................... 14 Ancient Isle of Man .................................................................. 15 Ayrshire & The Irish Jaunt . ........................................................ 16 Oban & the Isles of Mull & Iona ............................................... 17 Hebridean Island Hopper........................................................... 18 Hebridean Odyssey.................................................................. 19 Scottish Marine Wildlife Cruises................................................. 20 Wonderful Orkney Isles............................................................. 21 Shetland & Orkney Mini Cruise.................................................. 22 Scotland Castles & Gardens of the Scottish Borders................................. 23 Castle Parties in the Scottish Borders.......................................... 24 Waterways of Scotland............................................................. 25 Perthshire Highland Safari / Panoramic Scottish Rambler / Regal Scotland . ................................................................ 26/27 Romantic Highland Railways...................................................... 28 Royal Deeside & the Whisky Trail.............................................. 29 Fort William & Isle of Skye . ...................................................... 30 Scotlands North West Passage.................................................. 31 Spectacular Gardens & Castles of Scotland................................ 32 Boats & Trains of the Highlands & Islands.................................. 33 Scotland’s Autumn Gold............................................................. 34 Islands & Coastal Adventure...................................................... 35 Argyll Highlands and Isle of Bute............................................... 36 Classic Scotland/Drams and Flings.............................................. 37 Summertime Specials................................................................. 38 Luxurious Scotland . .................................................................. 39 Out of Season Houseparties............................................................................. 40 Christmas Markets..................................................................... 41 Christmas/New Year................................................................... 42 Hotels and Guideline Group Rates Southern England, Midlands and Wales.................................... 43 Peaks, Pennines and Northern England...................................... 44 The Borders and Southern Scotland........................................... 45 Glasgow and Area.................................................................... 46 Edinburgh, Fife and Central Scotland.......................................... 47 Perthshire, Deeside and North East Scotland.............................. 48 West Highlands and Spey Valley............................................... 49 Inverness and North West Highlands.......................................... 50 Hotels on the Islands . .............................................................. 51

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

1, 2 & 3 night breaks

England

From:

Short Break Ideas

£53 pp

New for 2013

All year round ideas, both weekends & midweek

The Garden of England

Price Includes

PPenhurst Place P Leeds Castle P Canterbury P Hever Castle Kent – appropriately called the Garden of England - is English countryside at it’s best. A landscape of rolling hills, fields and wooded valleys, apple orchards, vineyards, hop fields, splendid castles, historic houses and magnificent gardens. On this break stroll round historical Canterbury with plenty time to explore a few of the splendid gardens. Absorb in the scenery & quaint villages that make Kent so quintessentially English.

Historical Severn Valley Day 2: Scenic steam train journey Bridgnorth Kidderminster. Journey back to England’s Industrial Heartland & the recreated canal side village. Take a cruise into Dudley Tunnel, a tramcar ride & visit the coal mine at the Black Country Living Museum. Day 3: Shrewsbury with its black & white timber buildings and ancient alleyways. After lunch to the Welsh Borderlands, Welshpool and Powis Castle and famous gardens.

Downton Abbey & Oxford Spires

P Entry into Penhurst Place & Gardens P Entry into Leeds Castle & Gardens (3&4 nts stays) P Entry into Hever Castle & Gardens (4nt stays)

3* Chatsworth Hotel Hastings See page 43 Available May – September Rates & dates attached

2 nts from £99

P 2 or 3 nts DBB P welcoming tea/biscuits on arrival P Full English breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Single journey on Seven Valley Railway P Black Country Living Museum inc. cruise P Powis Castle & Gardens (3 night tour)

3* Buckatree Hall Hotel nr Telford See page 43 Available All Year Rates & dates attached

Price Includes

1 nt from £53

P Tea/coffee & biscuits on arrival

PHighclere Castle POxford P3 star hotel Follow in the footsteps of the cast by visiting dramatic Highclere Castle. The home for the popular TV’s Downton Abbey. Stroll round the manicured gardens, experience where the scenes were shot & take in the breathtaking beauty of the Castle. Plus, take the short

P 1,2 or 3 nts DBB P Entrance to Highclere Castle & the Egyptian Museum P Visit to Oxford (2 hour Guided walking tour plus £10pp)

journey to Oxford, the city of “Dreaming spires”, with

3* Chequers Hotel Newbury

time free to explore. Opt for an open top bus tour or a

See page 43 Arrivals Friday x 1,2 or 3 nts (Apr-Oct) Rates & dates attached

2 hour easy graded guided walking tour.

Theme Park Thrills

Price Includes

1 nt from £54

P 1 or 2 nts DBB

PDrayton Manor PAlton Towers P4 star hotel Visit the UK’s top 2 Theme Parks, in an adrenalin filled 2/3 day break. Firstly Alton Towers with a huge selection of “white knuckle” rides - the Oblivion, Air, Nemesis and Ripsaw to name just a few. The

P Entry into Alton Towers P Entry into Drayton Manor P Discounts available for children sharing with 2 adults

next morning stroll across to Drayton Manor from

4* Drayton Manor Tamworth

the hotel, includes a priority pass for the rides.

See page 43

Apocalypse is the worlds first stand up tower drop and Shockwave a stand up roller coaster.

P Welcome tea & biscuits on arrival P 2-4 nts DBB

Price Includes

PSevern Valley Railway PBlack Country Living Museum PShrewsbury

2 nts from £95

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Available April – October Rates & dates attached

Arrangements can be tailored

2&3 night breaks

England

From:

Short Break Ideas

£79 pp

New for 2013

All year round ideas, both weekends & midweek

Yorkshire Dales & Herriot Country

Price Includes

P Welcoming cuppa & scone

PRipon P Bolton Abbey P Yorkshire Dales P Steam railway

P 2-3 nts DBB

A combination of unspoilt scenery and market towns of the Yorkshire Dales with the more sweeping countryside of the Vale of Mowbray, better known as the area where the vet James Herriot lived and worked for over 50 years, and adapted in the popular TV series. The tour takes in Thirsk, Ripon and Harrogate on day one and Illkley, Grassington, Aysgarth, Hawes, Settle & Skipton on Day 2.

P Entry into Wenslydale Cheese P Embsay Railway and Bolton Abbey

3* Holiday Inn Leeds Garforth 3* Yorkshire Hotel Harrogate See page 44 Available April – October Rates & dates attached

Lakelands & Borderlands

Price Includes

2 nts from £89

P 2 or 3 nts DBB

PMuncaster Castle & Gardens PBassenthwaite Lake PGretna Green A splendid little short break firstly taking in the North Western Lakes & its coastline, a 14 mile steam train journey through beautiful Lakeland scenery between Ravenglass & Boot. Entrance to the haunted 13th century Muncaster Castle & gardens. Birds of Prey display at the World Owl Centre – one of the largest collections in the world. On Sunday over the border to Gretna see the famous “anvil” and if staying for 3nts proceed on to the market town of Dumfries.

Yorkshire Highlights

P Welcome tea on arrival P Entrance into Muncaster Castle & Gardens P Entrance into World Owl Centre P Steam Railway journey

3* Crown & Mitre Hotel Carlisle See page 45 Available April – October Rates & dates attached

Price Includes

PRailway Ride PSkipton Castle PGrassington PBronte Country On this superb showcase of Yorkshire, you’ll travel by steam back to the Industrial Revolution, linger in the charming village of Howarth & visit the Brontes at the world famous Parsonage. Time free to visit Skipton or its Castle. On into the Dales & the charming

2 nts from £79

P Welcoming cuppa & biscuits P 2 or 3 nts DBB P Single Howarth - Keighley steam railway P Entrance to Brontes Parsonage P Grassington & Dales P Harewood House & Gardens (3nt option)

4* Cedar Court Hotel Bradford 3* Yorkshire Hotel Harrogate

village of Grassington. 3 night stays include a visit to Harewood House & Gardens – Yorkshire’s Royal Stately Home.

Waterways of North West England

3* George Hotel Huddersfield See page 44. Available May – September Rates & dates attached

Price Includes

PLiverpool docks & cruise PU-Boat museum PBoat lift & River Cruise Something a little different -bringing together the exciting and proud heritage of England’s North West. To the once bustling maritime city of Liverpool, city of culture in 2009 , see the famous docks, take a guided cruise on the Mersey, experience life on board a German U- Boat with a guided tour. Journey back in time on the 19th century Anderton Boat Lift with cruise and entrance into the National Waterways Museum.

m ade to suit your travelling times

2 nts from £79

2 nts from £89

P Drink on arrival P 2 or 3 nts DBB P Cruise on River Explorer P Entrance into the U-Boat Story P Entry into Waterways Museum (3 nights) P River cruise & boat Lift (3 nights) P 1 nights entertainment

3* Everglades Hotel Widnes See page 44 Available May – September Rates & dates attached

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

Minimum 2 nts from:

£30

pppn DBB

England Summertime Seaside Resorts Special midweek or weekend deals available all year round

Beautiful Bournemouth P The New Forest PDorset Coast PWinchester PPoole One of the UK’s top resorts with 7 miles of blue flag golden beaches, 2 historic piers, a 2 mile stretch of grade II Victorian Gardens and extensive traffic free shopping. You can relax in a deck chair and listen to the free concerts which take place over the summer months. Then, go further a field and see the wealth of History, sights and culture which surrounds Bournemouth.

Plymouth & the Jurasssic Coast PJurassic Coast PPolperro PEden Project PDartmoor Located in the heartland of Devon & Cornwall, providing easy access to miles of coastline & its amazing natural environment. Plymouth Sound is quite breathtaking & a real focal point of the city. There are theatres, a marine aquarium and modern shopping mall. For history lovers the Pilgrim Fathers, Sir Francis Drake, Lady Astor and Napolean have all played their part in shaping Plymouth’s history.

Scarborough to Whitby PRobin Hoods Bay PFlamborough Head PPickering PYork Scarborough is one of the world’s first seaside resorts, and is still one of the most popular resorts in the North of England, with its harbour, 2 bays, golden beaches, cliff top views and gardens. In contrast Whitby is dominated by St Hilda’s Abbey set high on the cliff tops. Spreading below is Whitby, a maze

Price Includes 2 -7 nts from £35pp P Welcoming tea/coffee and biscuits on check-in P Full hot breakfasts P Choice of 3 course dinners plus coffee P Free on site coach parking P 1 free place per 25 paying pax

3* Elstead Hotel Bournemouth Is in a quiet location and only a short stroll from the beach and attractions. Home style cooking and free use of the leisure facilities. See page 43.

Price Includes 2 -7 nts from £40pppn P Welcoming tea/coffee and biscuits on check-in P Full hot breakfasts P Choice of 3 course dinners plus coffee P 1 free place per 25 paying pax

3* Astor Hotel Plymouth Next to the seafront and the Hoe. Easy walking distance to centre and the Barbican. See Page 43.

Price Includes 3 -5 nts from £38pppn P Welcoming tea/coffee and biscuits on check-in P Full hot breakfasts P Choice of 3 course dinners plus coffee P Free on site coach parking (Ravenhall) P 1 free place per 25 paying pax

3* Royal Hotel Scarborough

of alleyways and narrow streets leading down to the

3* Ravenshall Hotel Ravenscar

busy quayside.

See Page 44.

Hastings & the Sussex Coast PBrighton PLeeds Castle PCanterbury PBluebell Steam Railway Home to the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe & the remains of the first English castle to be built by William the Conqueror. The Old Town is a

Price Includes 2 -7 nts from £30pppn P 1-4 nts DBB P Full hot breakfasts P Choice of 3 course dinners plus coffee P 1 free place per 25 paying pax

charming mix of half-timbered houses, narrow streets

3* Chatsworth Hotel Hastings

and passageways & home to the steepest funicular

Charming 3* hotel in a seafront location. Near to the town centre, Rosette for food.

railway in Britain. Castles, Gardens, scenery and history are all within an easy drive of the town.

New for 2013

E: groups@classicbritain.com

See page 43

From: 5 days

£174

Add an extra nt from £40 pp DBB

England

New for 2013

Enchanting Olde England

Highlights P Warwick Castle P Stratford & Shakespeare’s birthplace P Cotswolds

Cotswolds Cottages

No Single Room Supplement

Warwick Castle Evesham

Stratford upon Avon Cheltenham

Warwick Castle

Price Includes Classic’s exciting new tour to the heart of England will take you to a region of the country famous for its ancient mellow ‘honey’ coloured limestone villages that blend perfectly into the countryside and its bustling market

P Welcome tea & biscuits on arrival,

towns. You will travel to the cultural and historical Stratford Upon Avon, the birth and burial place of William Shakespeare. Visit Britain’s ultimate Warwick Castle and take a tour of the delightful and medieval Cotswolds. Day 1: Arrive at Hotel In time for dinner and your

playwright was born and grew up, brought to life by

next 2 or 4 nights stay.

the costumed guides. Leave Stratford and return to

Day 2: Warwick Castle After breakfast take the short journey to Warwick where you will have the

the hotel in time for dinner. (Included in the 2night

Day 4: The Cotswolds A tour through some of the

lunch. In the afternoon you will have the pleasure

gentle slopes and the outstanding natural beauty of

of visiting ‘Britain’s Ultimate Castle’, the medieval

the Cotswolds. Past Wellesbourne and the famous

Warwick Castle. Immerse yourself in over 1000

Charlecote Park, continuing on to the market town

years of history, myths and tales of the castle in an

of Moreton–in–Marsh, then Stow-on-the-Wold,

eventful afternoon. Leave the castle and take the

before stopping off at Bourton-on-the-Water to enjoy

short journey back to the hotel in time for dinner.

the small shops, café’s and the miniature model

will take you through the rural Warwickshire countryside, better know as Shakespeare Country, continuing until you reach historical Stratford-uponAvon. Time free to enjoy the town and its various independent shops, restaurants and boutiques

P Full English Breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Entrance to Warwick Castle P Entrance to The Birthplace of Shakespeare P 1 free place per 25 paying passengers

package).

morning free to explore the town with time for some

Day 3: Home of Shakespeare Today’s tour

P 4 nights DBB

village. Proceed on to Cheltenham for lunchtime and free time to explore the town before heading through the pretty Vale of Evesham with its tranquil banks of the River Avon and the peaceful wooded

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

slopes, before returning to the hotel for dinner and

3* Honiley Court Hotel nr Warwick

your final nights stay.

before taking a tour of The Birthplace of William

Day 5: Travel Home After breakfast it’s a fond

Shakespeare. See where the world’s most famous

farewell as you make the journey home.

2 nts weekend breaks packages available

See page 43 4 nights Available May – September

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 5 days

£154

Add an extra nt £37 pp DBB

England

Revisedy Itinerar

Scarborough & the Yorkshire Coast Highlights P North York Moors P Steam train ride P Whitby & Filey

Driver Day off Wednesday

Scarborough

Scarborough Filey Whitby Goathland Thornton-le-Dale York Bridlington Flamborough Head

Whitby to Goathland Steam Train

Price Includes Scarborough, with it’s 12th century castle, is one of the worlds first seaside resorts and has been welcoming visitors for over 350 years. It is as popular as ever with its Victorian façade, narrow streets, beachfront cafes, golden beaches, gardens, attractions & an elegant esplanade. The area surrounding Scarborough is famous for its natural beauty from the awesome chalk white cliffs of Flamborough Head, to the wildness of the North Yorkshire Moors. On this tour you will see it all.

P 4nts DBB with free use of leisure facilities P Steam train Whitby- Goathland P Ticket for Summer Spectacular Show P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Full English breakfasts P Porterage P 2 nights entertainment

Monday: Arrive at Hotel for a cuppa and check in,

the “Queen of the Yorkshire Coast”. There are

in plenty time for dinner

many things to see and do, with beaches, shops,

Tuesday: Whitby and North Yorkshire Moors After

amusements and cruises. Return to the hotel in

breakfast scenic coastal drive to Whitby stopping

time for a pre-theatre dinner. In the evening you are

off at Smugglers cove, Robin Hoods Bay. Time free

booked into Scarborough’s Spa Theatre Summer

in the working fishing town of Whitby, the home of

Show Spectacular.

Captain Cook and an inspiration to Bram Stoker’s

Thursday: Yorkshire Coast Firstly, to the Victorian

“Dracula”. Dept Whitby on the North Yorks steam

seaside resort of Filey, with it’s 5 mile stretch

train arriving in Goathland, famous as Aidanfield

of award winning golden beach, whitewashed

in TV series ‘Heartbeat’, and later as “Hogsmead”

Edwardian houses and quaint cottages. Along

in the Harry Potter trilogies. Afterwards, through

the coastal heritage Trail & the white chalked cliffs

stunning North Yorkshire Moors scenery by

of Flamborough Head (walking shoes required).

Pickering and the picture postcard village of

Where you can admire the views and the various

Thornton-le-Dale.

colonies of seabirds. Then Bridlington with time

3* Ravenhall Hotel Ravenscar

Wednesday: Free Day in Scarborough After

free to stroll round the beach, harbour and shops.

See Page 44

your leisurely breakfast you can relax back at the

Friday: Travel Home Its time to leave Scarborough

hotel, or do some sightseeing in Scarborough,

and head home.

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Whitby

3* Royal Hotel Scarborough

Available March – November Rates & dates attached

From: 3 nts

£119 4 nts

£149

England

Revisedy Itinerar

Nostalgic Journey through the Derbyshire Peaks

Highlights P Spa Town P Lyme Park P Steam Railway P Ladybower Dam P Concord

No Single Room Supplement

Eyam, Peak District

Ladybower Dam Disley Concord Lyme Park Buxton Bakewell Rawsley Rail

Concord

Price Includes In the heart of England, the Peak District National Park is an area of outstanding beauty from its high limestone peaks to snake like gorges and passes. Stately homes to picturesque stonebuilt villages. This tour combines the delightful scenery of the “High Peaks” with a visit to a wonderful stately home with gardens and walks and a nostalgic steam journey through one of the most scenic Peak areas.

P Welcoming tea and cakes on arrival P 3 or 4nts dinner, bed & breakfast P Full English breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Porterage P 2 nts entertainment P Entrance into Lyme Park Gardens & House

3* Moorside Grange Hotel. Enjoy refreshing tea

Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice. Embrace it’s

P Guided tour of Concord P Single Steam Train Journey

and cakes whilst your luggage is taken care of.

colourful family history – including the hit series

P Free use of hotel leisure facilities

Sunday or Friday: Arrive at the countryside

Monday or Saturday: Peak District National Park Into the High Peaks and Snake Pass to Ladybower Reservoir with its WWII Dambusters fame and Derwent Reservoir, with the ruins of Derwent Village hidden beneath its waters. On to Eyam, the

in England – the backdrop to where Darcy meets

Upstairs Downstairs. Discover impressive tapestries and beautifully furnished rooms, or escape to the park with its gardens and pathways. Afterwards the short journey to Manchesters Aviation Park and a tour of Concord.

plague town, and Castleton, home of the legendary

Wednesday or Sunday: Buxton, Bakewell & Rail

Blue John Stone with the opportunity of visiting

This morning we head to the spa town of Buxton

the famous caverns beloved by Queen Victoria.

with its 20 acres of Pavilion Gardens. Then, to

Returning over the wild moors via Chapel en-le-

Bakewell. See the original pudding shop where the

Firth. Dinner & entertainment.

famous tart is made. After lunch, the tour continues

Tuesday: Lyme Hall & Park and Concord Leisurely morning, take a swim, there are some lovely short walks surrounding the hotel. Short drive to the magnificent estate of Lyme Park. Its

Lyme Park

to Rowsley to pick up the steam train for the short

3* Moorside Grange Upper Disley

journey to Matlock, with time free before returning

See page 44 Available May - September Sundays x 4nts Fridays x 3nts Rates and dates attached

via Abraham Heights & Matlock Baths in plenty time for dinner and entertainment.

wild remoteness and powerful beauty contrast with

Thursday or Monday: After breakfast head for

one of the most famous country house images

home.

5th night available from £35 pp DBB

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

Slaley Hall

England

Percy Arms

Kingdom of Northumbria & the North East

4 nts from:

£249 £199

Revisedy Itinerar

Highlights P Bamburgh Castle P Holy Island P Alnwick Castle P Hadrians Wall

Two programmes available

Alnwick Castle

Dryburgh

Holy Island Bamburgh

Hadrians Wall Alnwick Otterburn er

Newcastle

Hexham

Durham

Beamish Museum

Price Includes A land of outstanding beauty from the unspoilt National Park, to Northumberland’s Heritage Coastline filled with ancient castles, golden beaches, moorlands and pretty market towns. A mix of history and heritage with a choice of 2 slightly different holidays. The luxury of Slaley Hall, with a visit to Durham & Beamish. Or, in the family owned and managed Percy Arms with the addition of a Scottish Border Town tour, bearing testament to the bloody battles and warring clans of a bygone era. Day 1: Arrive at your chosen hotel, relax with tea & biscuits whilst your luggage is taken care of. Welcome dinner. Day 2: Hadrians Wall A tour to this World Heritage site with a guided tour of Chester Fort. The finest example of a Roman Cavalry Fort in the UK. The tour continues along the Military road stopping off to view the wall at close quarters and take in the spectacular views. The tour returns along the Tyne Valley, stopping off at Hexham, voted the best market town in Britain with its imposing Cathedral. Day 3: Northumbria – Firstly to Alnwick Castle & Gardens, one of the leading contemporary gardens in Europe and the 2nd largest inhabited castle in the country. Allow 3 hours, afterwards the journey continues to Bamburgh with it’s iconic castle, echoing the areas turbulent history. Further north we cross the causeway (tide permitting), to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne – cradle of English Christianity. Visit the Priory, stroll on the sandy beach and take in the village of the Holy island.

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Day 4: Scottish Borders (From Percy Arms). Today’s tour takes us into the Scottish Borders, an area with a proud history and heritage visiting Jedburgh, famous for its beautiful abbey with time to explore if you so wish. We continue to the next Abbey town, Melrose. In the afternoon, we stop at Scots View, with views over the River Tweed and across to the Eildon Hills with the opporunnity to walk to the nearby Wallace Monument. Our final call of the day is to the third Abbey town, Dryburgh where the heart of Robert the Bruce is buried in its Abbey. Day 4: Durham & Beamish (From Slaley Hall). The land of Princes and Bishops, with time in Durham to explore the magnificent Norman Cathedral and the medieval cobbled streets. After lunch we head for Beamish Museum, a unique experience depicting life as it was in the 19th century. Day 5: After breakfast head for home past the “Angel of the North”.

P 4nts DBB P Welcoming tea/coffee & biscuits on check in. P 2 nts entertainment at Percy Arms P Free use of leisure at Slaley Hall P Entry into Lindisfarne Priory P Entry into Alnwick Castle & Gardens P Entry Into Beamish (Slaley Hall) P Entry & Guided Tour of Chester Roman Fort P Choice 3 course dinners + coffee P Full English Breakfasts P 1 free place for your over 25 paying passengers

Slaley Hall

4* Slaley Hall near Hexham Edwardian mansion set in 1000 acres of Northumberland countryside. 2 golf courses and leisure.

3* Percy Arms Hotel Otterburn See Page 44 & 45 Available April – October Rates & dates attached

From:

£119 4 nts £149 3 nts

Add an extra nt from £44 pp DBB

England

Revisedy Itinerar

Lakeland Explorer

Highlights P Ullswater cruise P Lake Windermere P Ambleside P Swaledale

Driver day off option Staying in Bowness

Lake Windermere

Carlisle Ullswater Lake

Shap Wells Hawes

Bowness Holker Hall

Richmond

Kendal

Haverthwaite Railway

Price Includes Regarded as England’s most scenic National Park, must certainly be one of the best loved and most beautiful regions within the UK, with its combination of lakes & mountains the area has inspired poets and artists for centuries. The most famous of which is William Wordsworth. On Classic’s Lakeland Explorer you will see the best of the Lake District including a steam train ride, a boat trip, and a visit to Holker Hall & Gardens. Plus the bonus of a day tour into the North Yorkshire Dales. Day 1: Arrive at your hotel in time for dinner and a relaxing evening. Day 2: Lake Windermere & Southern Lakes After breakfast a day out exploring the Southern Lakes, stopping off at Haverthwaite, and a single 4 mile journey on the scenic Steam train to Lake Winderemere,

P 3 course choice evening meals

Swaledale stopping at the quaint market town of Reeth. Then across the moors to the historic Yorkshire Dales

Swaledale & Richmond (from Shap Wells Hotel) Today is the best of the Northern Dales. Firstly Gartsdale, where you see the Settle to Carlisle railway and the magnificent viaducts. Continue to Hawes before going over spectacular Buttertub Pass leaving Wensleydale and into

Prices lower than 2012

P 3nts entertainment at Shap

castle, Georgian architecture, cobbled market place, monuments and abbeys, & the fast flowing River Swale. Returning to the hotel via Brough and Kirkby Stephen

with the town busy for much of the year. People come to enjoy the lake for sailing and watersports, or just to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the area and the town’s delightful setting on Lake Windermere.

Day 4: 3 options for 4 night package only:

P Full Lakeland breakfasts

market town of Richmond. Time to explore its Norman

Ambleside in time for dinner. (3 & 4nt package)

for lunch in Keswick, returning through Grasmere and arrive at your hotel for dinner. (3 & 4nts package)

P Train from Haverthwaite to Lakeside

P Cruise on Ullswater Steamer

Free Day (from Belsfield or Hydro) Take the opportunity to explore Bowness. Cumbria’s most popular destination,

cruise on the Ullswater Steamer, depart Glenridding with time for a coffee at Pooley Bridge. Heading west with time

P 3 or 4 nights DBB

P Entrance to Holker Hall and Gardens

proceeding to the famous Holker Hall & Gardens. Return to the hotel via Lake Coniston (of Bluebird fame) and Day 3: Ullswater & Northern Lakes Leisurely breakfast, then north over the Fells and Kirkstone Pass and a 1 hour

P Welcoming tea on check in

Guided Walk (From any location). A wonderful easily graded walk with a qualified Mountain Leader, approx 7 miles, total ascent 500ft. Commence at 1000hrs, stop for pub lunch (not included). Finish approx 3pm. A walk linking pretty Lakeland Villages with dramatic views, Hawkeshead & Beatrix Potter country & superb vantage point of Tarn Hows. (Supplementary £30pp). Day 5: Travel Home After a leisurely breakfast time to return home.

Ullswater Steamer

3* County Hotel Kendal 3* Windermere Hydro Hotel Bowness on Windermere

3* Shap Wells Hotel Shap Available April – October Winter programmes available Rates and dates attached See page 44

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

5 days

Wales

Add an extra nt from £32 pp DBB

Highlights P Snowdon Mountain Railway P Caernarfon Castle P Chester & boat cruise

From:

£169

Revisedy Itinerar

Boats & Trains of the Welsh Borders & Snowdonia

1 free place if over 25 paying passengers

Caenarfon Castle

Chester Caernarfon

Llanberis

Mold

Llangollen Snowden Cruise Railway

Aqueduct Canal Boat

Price Includes the visitor from a jaw dropping train ride up into the clouds, to a cruise on the longest water aqueduct in the world. You’ll be visiting probably Wales’ most famous castle, as well as exploring the Roman walled city of Chester. In an area of such outstanding beauty, this tour includes all the above and is particularly spectacular. Day 1: Arrive at the Beaufort Park to welcoming

history and local knowledge along the way. The

tea or coffee & Barra Brith.

journey will come to an end after you pass over the

Day 2: Caernarfon Castle & Snowdon Railway

famous and thrilling Pontcysyllte aqueduct built

Taking the coastal route past the seaside towns

by Thomas Telford in 1805 sitting 128ft above the

of Colwyn Bay & Llandudno to the historic town

River Dee. The coach will meet you at Froncysyllte

of Caernarfon, which is dominated by its castle

returning through Llantyslio Mountain range with

giving the town a distinct medieval atmosphere,

time free in the charming market town of Ruthin,

with entrance included. After lunchtime the tour

back in time for dinner and entertainment.

P 4nts DBB P Welcome tea & Barra Brith P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Full Welsh Breakfasts P Journey on Snowdon’s Mountain Railway P Cruise on Aqueduct canal boat P Entry into Caernarfon Castle P Boat Cruise on the River Dee P 2 nights entertainment incl. A Welsh themed dinner

continues for the short journey to Llanberis, where

Day 4: Chester and a boat cruise Short journey

the train will be waiting to transport you to the roof

across the border to the Roman city of Chester,

top of Wales at 3,560ft Snowdon is the highest

with time to explore the many boutique and vintage

mountain in Wales, dominating the awe-inspiring

shops of Rufus Court. Or, the beautiful 1000 year

views of Snowdonia National Park. Included is

old Chester Cathedral. One of the best ways to take

entrance into the summits Visitor Centre.

in this walled city is by boat. We have arranged a

Snowdon Railway

Day 3: Llangollen Wharf Aqueduct Cruise

½ guided boat cruise on the River Dee, which runs through the centre of the city past Grosvenor Park

3* Beaufort Park Mold Nr Chester

Today we head south visa the Horseshoe Pass to Llangollen. Board the canal boat taking the

& the Earls Eye, taking in the delightful views of

peaceful two-hour cruise along the Dee Valley, with

riverside properties and gardens.

a live commentary from your skipper explaining the

E: groups@classicbritain.com

North Wales and its coastline is bursting with variety offering so much to

See Page 43 Available April – October Rates & dates attached

Out of season Welsh Medieval Houseparties. See page 40

From: 5 days

£169

Add an extra nt from £40 pp DBB

Wales

201s2t

Be Seller

Landscapes of Pembrokeshire A holiday with a twist: A Walking Option or a Touring Option or Both!

For Walkers: 5 Days from £229

For Tourers: 5 Days from £169

Discover unspoilt Wales by foot as we walk through verdant countryside, historic towns and some of the finest coastlines in Europe. On this fully escorted walking holiday you will have the opportunity to visit the unspoilt lands & coastlines surrounding Pembrokeshire, led by an experienced blue badge guide. From the wonders of the Gower Peninsula to the history surrounding Llandovery.

The South West of Wales & the Pembrokeshire coastline is without doubt one of the most beautiful areas in the UK, with miles of stunning coastline inter dispersed with quaint fishing villages. You will discover the delights of Cardigan Bay, a visit to one of the top attractions in Wales - the National Botanical Gardens and finally to the seaside and picturesque Tenby.

Walkers in Brecon Beacons

Tenby

Classic launched this combination tour in 2012 and became one of our best selling holidays. The tour has been enhanced providing you with two distinctively different styles of tours to this captivating area. You can either book the walking or touring option on their own. Or, the most popular choice is combining both so as to appeal to as wide an audience as possible. Both itineraries are planned so that walkers can be dropped off at the start of their walks where they will join their Blue Badge Guide, allowing the coach to take remaining passengers on the excursions as listed. Returning to collect walkers in the afternoon.

Price Includes P 4 nights DBB P Welcoming tea and Barra Brith on check in P 3 fully guided walks P 3 packed lunches P use of drying room at hotel P free overnight coach parking

Things you need to know Guide is trained in first aid. Exit routes have been planned if needed, public liability insurance provided. Reasonable level of fitness required. Walks conducted are a moderate grade at a leisurely pace, mainly on tracks and pathways. Proper waterproof clothing and boots required. Walking poles useful. Suitable for all ages, for both ramblers and for those wishing to get into the great outdoors but have not done many or any off the beaten track walks. In the event of unfavourable weather, an alternative walk (of equal time and distance) will be offered.

Tuesday: Brecon Beacons National Park. Today’s 6 ½ mile walk will take about 5 hours around the North Western rim of the Brecon Beacons, taking you through secluded river meadows and rolling tree covered hills, arriving in the historical town of Llandovery – typifying what rural Wales is all about & home to the “Drovers” Museum, Wales’s first bank and as you would expect a castle. Wednesday: The Gower Peninsula Britain’s first designated “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”. Today’s walk, leads us towards the Gower’s rugged & dramatic coastline. The trail takes us beyond secluded bays with their crystal clear waters, past Iron Age forts and the enchanting “Worm’s Head”. We conclude our walk at the village of Rhossili - one of Wales’s most photographed views, overlooking the cliffs towards Llangennith. This is a delightful, undulating, 6-mile walk (approx 4hrs). Thursday: Pembrokeshire Coast At the South West tip of Wales and the delightful coastal village of Bosherton - famous for its lily ponds. Experience outstanding sea views as we pass by the ponds, through the woodlands and down to the seashore. The leisurely pace of this guided walk is an ideal way to complete a memorable walking holiday. This is a circular journey (approx 7 miles – 4hrs).

Price Includes P 4 nights DBB P Welcoming tea & Barra Brith on check in P Entry into Botanical Gardens P 1 Free place over 25 paying passengers P 3 course choice evening meals P Full Welsh breakfasts P Friday night entertainment in the Diplomat Hotel

Brecon Beacons Cardigan

Botanical Gardens

Carmarthen

Llanelli

Tenby The Gower 3* Ivy Bush Hotel Carmarthen 3* Diplomat Hotel Llanelli See page 43 Available May to September Rates and Dates attached

Tuesday: Brecon Beacons National Park & Cardigan Bay After breakfast its time to travel to the spectacular Brecon Beacons (where the walkers will be dropped) then head towards the Pembrokeshire coastline & Cardigan. Time free to explore this market town before returning via the old town of Newcastle Emlyn and Cernarth Falls where fishermen still use the traditional Welsh coracle. Wednesday: National Botanical Gardens Full Welsh breakfast followed by morning free in either Carmarthen to explore the oldest town in Wales and visit the market. Or, Llanelli on the estuary of the River Loughor, with its pleasant shopping mall and nearby Millenium Coastal Park. Then a short journey to the award winning National Botanical Gardens of Wales where you will have a chance to see all the various exotic plants and flowers. Thursday: Pembroke and Tenby After Breakfast a leisurely drive towards Pembroke before taking the coastal road to picturesque Tenby. Here you will have the afternoon to relax and enjoy the harbour or the beach along with the seaside shops and cafés. Return to the hotel via coastal Saundersfoot and the 5 miles of golden beaches of Pendine, reaching the hotel in time for your final nights Welsh dinner.

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

6 days

Island Escapes

5 days

Jersey by Sea

From:

£339 £244

New for 2013

Highlights P Scenic ferry crossing P Island Tour P Entertainment programme

Things to see and do

Elizabeth Castle, St Helier

For such a small island there is plenty to keep you amused. Whether it be a walk or a cycle on the flower festooned leafy lanes. Or spending lazy afternoons on the beach or seaside cafes & shops. Or exploring the castles and museums dotted around the island: Elizabeth Castle, St. Helier stands on an island in the bay, accessible by a causeway at low tide. This imposing fortress withstood Cromwell’s forces for seven weeks in 1651, and housed occupying Germans during WWII. Hamptonne Restored traditional farm, representing Jersey’s farming heritage between 17th-19th Centuries, with thatched cottages & live characters. Jersey War Tunnels An underground hospital that now contains displays and memorabilia from WWII. Jersey Zoological Park Discover many endangered species, founded by the late Gerald Durrell.

Jersey, with its fascinating history stretching back over 1000 years is the most southerly island of the British Isles. Located only 15 miles from the French coast and 100 miles from mainland Britain. An island surrounded by crystal clear waters and bathed in sunshine for most of the year. It really does have that Continental feel, (but without the language barrier!) With its unspoiled landscape and unique blend of British and French influences, Jersey really is a place where you can get away from it all. Relax and enjoy the famed hospitality of its people, and lose yourself in the Island’s winding lanes or on its breathtaking coast dotted with sheltered coves and 15 miles of sandy beaches. Festivals play a significant part in island life, with plenty events taking place throughout the year in the islands lively capital St Helier. Day 1: Travel to Jersey We have arranged suitable

photographic opportunities and refreshments as

ferry slots with Condor Ferries departing from Weymouth or Portsmouth. Drop your passengers

well as visits to the famous Jersey Pearl Centre and The Living Legend – Jersey’s No 1 tourist attraction.

at the ferry terminal. Sailing takes approx 4hrs. On arrival in Jersey a representative from the Mayfair Hotel will be waiting for you, with a private coach

The remainder of your stay on the island is free to enjoy, relax and explore the many sites and

and take you to your hotel in time for dinner. Days 2-5: Full day coastal tour of Jersey On one of the days we have arranged for a private coach to take you on Jerseys most popular. Departing from the Mayfair Hotel, the tour visits St Aubin’s Bay, St Brelades Bay, Corbiere Lighthouse, St Ouen’s Bay, Greve de Lecq, the Northern Coastline, Gorey Harbour then returning to St Helier via the picturesque East Coast, La Rocque Harbour & St Clement’s Bay. The Tour includes stoppages for

E: groups@classicbritain.com

attractions of this fascinating island, the most popular ones are highlighted in “Things to see & do”. In addition there are some easy walks and you can also hire bicycles in St Helier. The speed limit is 15mph!! Your hotel representative will be on hand to advise you. Day 6 or 7: Depart Jersey After breakfast, a coach will collect you and take you to the ferry terminal for your sailing back to the mainland where your coach will be waiting to take you home.

Mighty Mont Orgeuil Castle at Gorey as well as a number of restored military bunkers dotted along the coast. Museums in St Helier Wander along Fort Regent’s ramparts and the awardwinning Jersey Museum, the Maritime Museum and the Occupation Tapestry Gallery.

Price Includes P Return Ferry crossing P Services of a local resort rep P Meet and greet reception P 4 or 5 nts DBB P Individual dining P Full day island excursion P Porterage P Entertainment Programme

3* Mayfair Hotel St Helier See page 51

Dates 22 April x 4nts £269 20 May x 5nts £339 £359 17 June x 5nts 8 July x 5nts £359 £339 9 September x 5nts 16 September x 5nts £339 £244 7 October x 4nts Other dates available on request Prices per person 1st 2 singles no supplement

Jersey by Air can be arranged on request

5 days

Island Escapes

from £38 pp DBB

Ancient Isle of Man

From:

£249

New for 2013

Highlights P Mountain Railway P Castle Rushen P Laxey Wheel P Port Erin

Driver day off option on Day 3

Peel Castle, Isle of Man’

Isle of Man Ramsey

Snaefell Railway Peel

Laxey Douglas Hey

sha

Port Erin

Castletown

Douglas Marina, Isle of Man

Price Includes The Island is a Crown dependency with a 1000 year old parliament called the Tynwald – the oldest in the world. The Isle of Man is located in the Gulf Stream ½ way between the UK and Ireland providing a milder and sunnier climate than the rest of the British Isles. As an island, its only 33 miles long and 14 miles wide, but is rich in tradition and steeped in history dating back to the Vikings. There is beautiful unspoilt countryside, and a coastline peppered with coves and sandy beaches. For a tiny island there is an extraordinary variety of things to see and do. Day 1: Board the Isle of Man Steam Packet ferry from Heysham for the 3 ¾ hrs sailing to Douglas with just a short transfer to your hotel in time for dinner. Day 2: Laxey & Snaefell Mountain Railway Head north to Laxey, home to the worlds largest water wheel called “Isabella” and adjoining woollen mill. From the “cottage” board the mountain railway upto Snaefell Peak, the highest point on the island, with time to take in the magnificent “birds eye” views of the Island. On return to Douglas follow part of the famous TT course passing the landmarks of Kates Cottage, Keppel Gate and Windy Corner. Day 3: Day to relax in Douglas Enjoy the islands capital with its Victorian Pier & sandy beach. Or take a ride on the horse and cart along the seafront. The hotel is within easy walking distance of all the local attractions and shops. For those wishing to explore further a field then there is an electric train service

Prices lower than 2011

P 4nts DBB P Ferry to and from the Isle of Man P Train to Snaefell Peak P Entrance to Castle Rushen P Free coach parking at hotels P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Full Manx breakfasts P 1 free place for your driver over 25 paying passengers

along the coast to Ramsey, the islands 2nd largest town. Day 4: Castle Rushen, Port Erin & Peel To the south lies Castletown - once the capital of the Isle of Man and is dominated by the magnificent fortress of Castle Rushen. It is one of Europe’s most finely preserved medieval castles (entry is included). Onwards for the short journey through Port St. Mary with its busy harbour, to Port Erin with its sweep of a sheltered sandy beach. After a short stop proceed north to Peel, considered to be the most “Manx”of all towns. Time to explore the tiny lanes, shops, harbour and museum. Interestingly, Peel is one of the best places in the world to see Basking Sharks from shore. Returning along the TT circuit over Tynwald Hill and the Manx Parliament. Day 5: The ferry leaves Douglas shortly after breakfast arriving in Heysham around lunchtime for your journey home.

Snaefells Steam Railway

3* Chesterhouse Hotel, Douglas 3* Rutland Hotel, Douglas See page 51 Available March – November Dates and rates attached

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 5 days

£209 Add an extra nt from £32 pp DBB

Island Escapes

New for 2013

Ayrshire & The Irish Jaunt

Highlights P Giants Causeway P Antrim coast P Ayrshire P Drumlanrig Castle

Overnight hotels available from £38pp DBB

Drumlanrig Castle

Portrush Irvine

Giants Causway Lorne Belfast

Ayr Drumlanrig Castle Turnberry

Turnberry Lighthouse and Ailsa Craig

Price Includes This wonderful holiday is easily accessible from most parts of the UK, based in the Ayrshire coastal town of Irvine. We explore the Ayrshire coast with visits to Ayr & Turnberry with its long sandy beaches, the Robert Burns centre in Alloway and the magnificent Renaissance styled Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens. The highlight of the holiday starts with a short sailing to the “Emerald Isle”, for a tour of the Antrim Coast, renowned as one of the most scenic drives in all of Ireland, stopping off at the famous “Giants Causeway” as well as uncovering stunning seascapes and hidden gems. Day 1: Ayrshire Arrive at the hotel to be greeted by

Site, a honeycomb of 40,000 unique basalt columns.

the hotel management over tea and shortbread.

As the tour returns through the seaside town of

Day 2: Robert Burns Country After a leisurely

Portrush towards Larne every twist & turn in the road

breakfast, morning free to relax, before the short drive to

by 8pm for dinner.

with plenty shops, bars and café’s, or take a visit to the

Day 4: Drumlarig Castle, Turnberry & the

large sandy beach. Afterwards the coach takes you to

Ayrshire coast A full day tour into the Southern

the pretty village of Alloway, with its associations with

Uplands and East Ayrshire. First stop is Drumlanrig

Scotland’s most famous poet Robbie Burns.

Castle & Gardens. Built in 1691 by the Duke of

Day 3: County Antrim’s Coastal Trail Dept Troon on

Queensberry & brimming with centuries-old heritage

and the start of 120 miles of breathtaking beauty, with enchanting coastal resorts and uninterrupted stretches of rugged coastline. The route you will be taking is referred to as “one of the world’s great road journeys”. It runs right from the outskirts of Belfast along the famous Antrim coast, past beautiful Whitepark Bay to the famous Old Bushmills whiskey Distillery and the iconic Giants Causeway - a UNESCO World Heritage

E: groups@classicbritain.com

P Free overnight coach parking

will reveal exhilarating new sights. Back to your hotel

Ayr, the regions capital. Stroll around it’s bustling centre

the 1005 High Speed ferry to Larne, taking just 2 hours

P Welcome tea & shortbread on check in P 4 nts DBB P Return High speed ferry Larne – Troon Entry into Drumlanrig Castle & P Gardens P Full Scottish breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinner plus coffee P Evening entertainment P A Scottish themed night P 2 other nts entertainment

and culture. Set in an 80,000 estate with Country Park and landscaped Victorian gardens. Lunch own arrangements at Drumlanrig. Afterwards we continue through the woodland uplands of the Galloway Hills past Loch Doon to Maybole with time free to stroll round Turnberry with its world famous golf course. Continuing back to the hotel with fine seaviews all the way - the arch shaped Ailsa Craig & Firth of Clyde with the mountains of the Isle of Arran in the distance.

Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland

4* Menzies Hotel, Irvine See Page 45 Available May - October Rates & dates attached

5 days

Island Escapes

6 days

Oban & the Isles of Mull and Iona

From:

£199 £235

Highlights P Mull P Iona P Seil Island P Fort William P Cable Car Ride

Driver day off option on Day 3

Oban

Fort William & Nevis Range

Oban Mull & Iona

Seil Island

Iona Abbey

Price Includes Oban, “Gateway to the Isles” with its picturesque harbour, surrounded by sweeping mountains is the perfect setting to explore Argyll, its islands and the West Highlands. On this tour you will be transported by cable car up into the mountains, step back in history on the sacred Isle of Iona and have the chance of spotting wildlife on the cruise to Mull, as well as sampling the enchantment of Seil Island. Day 1: Oban Travel past Stirling and into the glorious Highland countryside along Loch Awe before reaching your waterfront hotel in time for dinner. Day 2: Bridge over the Atlantic After a leisurely breakfast, morning free to explore Oban. After lunch, a half day tour to Seil Island, made famous for the film “Ring of Brightwater.” Over the Atlantic Bridge opening up magnificent scenery of the islands & coastline. In the quaint village of Easdale with its whitewashed fishermans cottages, there is a micro brewery for those wishing to sample the local brew, quaint shops and a large souvenir shop and café. Day 3: Mull and Iona Today travel across to Mull on the ferry with your coach. Depts approx 1000hrs. Once on the island, journey south taking in the scenery sighting the imposing Duart Castle, reaching the most westerly point of the island, Fionnphort. Here you board the short ferry crossing on foot to the small island of Iona to visit the abbey (entry included). Many easy walks in the area and

plenty of time to enjoy the island and its beach before heading back to catch your ferry arriving in Oban around 1800hrs. Driver Day off option Passengers can cruise to Mull & Iona without your coach. Hotels are no more than 300 yards from the ferry point. On Mull a private coach and driver will be waiting at the ferry terminal to conduct the island tour. (Extra cost £19 pp). Day 4: Fort William & Cable Car Ride A scenic coastal drive along the shoreline of the loch takes you to Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis. Time free to explore the main town of the West Highlands. A short drive to Neptunes Staircase, to see the boats navigating the 8 locks of the Caledonian Canal, then to Nevis Range and the spectacular cable car ride into the mountains with its walks, magnificent mountain and loch views of Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and on a clear day you can see the Isle of Skye. There is a comfortable bistro & observation balcony. Day 5 After breakfast it is time to head home.

Overnight hotels available from £36 pp DBB

P 4/5 nts DBB P Welcoming tea & shortbread on arrival P Return Ferry to Mull P Return Ferry to Iona P Entry into Iona Abbey P Mountain cablecar at Nevis Range P 2nts entertainment at Regent P 3 course evening meals P Full hot Scottish breakfasts

Mull Ferry

3* Caledonian Hotel, Oban 3* Columba Hotel, Oban 2* Regent Hotel, Oban See Page 49 Available April to October Rates and dates attached

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From:

7 days

£415

Island Escapes The Hebridean “Island Hopper” Highlights P Oban P 7 Hebridean Isles P Guided Tour P Speyside

Drivers Day Off Saturday

Eriskay Beach

Stornoway Ullapool Inverness Benbecula

Barra

Oban

Pitlochry

Glasgow

Ferry Details The ferry times are considerate, so there are no early breakfasts or late dinners, making the whole tour so much more relaxing: Friday Oban – Castlebay depts Oban 1340hrs and arrives at Castlebay 1830hrs (4hrs, 50 mins). Sunday Barra – Eriskay depts 1110 and arrives at Eriskay 1150 (40 mins).

A most magnificent holiday covering the total length of the Hebrides, visiting 7 different islands. It is the ultimate in Scottish Island Hopping with dramatic mountains, romantic glens, sparkling lochs & 1800 miles of breathtaking coastline. You’ll be sure to find some unexpected wonders. History, culture, wildlife & adventure are only part of an inspiring journey through an untouched wilderness, that is the Hebrides.

Sunday Bernaray (North Uist) – Leverburgh (Harris) depts1630 arrived 1730 (1 hour). Tuesday Stornoway – Ullapool departs 1350 arrives Ullapool 1635 ( 2hrs, 45 mins). Also an option of taking an earlier sailing at 0700 if you wish to overnight further south. Final timings will be sent in your drivers pack. Taken from 2012 timetable.

Price Includes

Thursday: Travel to Glasgow area for your

S.S. Politician sank with 50,000 cases of whisky and

overnight stop in a min. 3* hotel DBB.

made into the classic film “Whisky Galore”. Lunch is

Friday: Loch Lomond, Oban & Cruise After

included at the Dark Island Hotel. Catch the Isle of

breakfast, the tour continues into the Highlands

Harris ferry, continuing northwards to Stornoway for

and Oban to catch the afternoon ferry to the Isle

2 nights DBB.

of Barra. As you sail into Castlebay you will pass

Monday: Lewis & Harris Guided Tour After

11th century Kisimul Castle providing a stirring and

breakfast, a full day tour of the Northern part of the

romantic welcome to Barra.

Hebrides, with the services of a local guide who

Saturday: Isle of Barra Breakfast at leisure taking

will be able to tell you some amazing stories about

in the magnificent views from the hotel, maybe see

folklore and history. The tour takes you to Callanish

a plane or two land on the beach! A day to relax

(Scotland’s Stonehenge but older), ancient thatched

P 1 free place for your driver if over 25 paying passengers

and sample island life where Gaelic is still widely

“blackhouses”, with entrance and light lunch

P Free coach parking at all hotels

spoken. Take a stroll along the beaches, or perhaps

included, the 2000 year old Broth of Carloway and a

visit Kisimul Castle on a short boat trip.

visit to a Harris Tweed Mill.

Sunday: The 7 islands tour Depart Barra for

Tuesday: Inverness & Spey Valley After breakfast

the ferry to Eriskay with its great sandy beach

morning free to explore Stornoway, before boarding

known as Prince Charlie’s Bay. Continue along

the ferry to Ullapool. Proceeding towards Inverness

the causeway to South Uist, the Hebrides 2nd

and the Spey Valley for your final nights stay.

largest island, a haven for birds and carpeted with

Wednesday: Head for home Or, add an extra

a profusion of wild flowers. It was near here in 1941

night. (Approx £44pppn DBB).

E: groups@classicbritain.com

P 6 nights DBB P Full breakfast each morning P Choice 3 course dinner plus coffee each evening P All 4 ferries P 1 Lunch on Benbecula P 1 Lunch on Lewis P Guided tour of Lewis & Harris

1 nt 3* or 4* Glasgow area (Page 46)

2nts 2* Isle of Barra Hotel 2 nts 3* Caberfeidh Hotel or

2* Caladh Inn (page 51)

1nt 3* Speyside Hotel (page

49), or further south if required.

Lots of dates available. See attached

From:

6 days

£339

Island Escapes

Added n Attractio

Hebridean Odyssey Highlights P Isle of Skye P The Uists P Blackhouse Museum P Inverness

Hotel northbound 3* Glasgow area c£40 DBB

Isle of Harris

Lewis Harris Ullapool Uist

Inverness Skye

Fort William Pitlochry

This island hopping holiday captures the true beauty of the Scottish Highlands and its Islands. Rugged & breathtaking landscapes unfold before you, and each day is different. Magical cruises to the Isles with the chance of spotting whales, dolphins and sea eagles. Sample the island lifestyle and learn about their ancient history spanning back 5000 years. To help keep costs down, there is a 2* or 3* hotel option. Tuesday: Travel to Isle of Skye Past Stirling, and

going right back to prehistoric times. We travel to

then into the Highlands passing mountain tops and

the north end of Lewis and to the capital Stornoway.

sweeping moorland, before entering Ballachulish.

Our stay for the next 2 nights.

Time free in Fort William before continuing onwards

Friday: Lewis and Harris Guided Tour Full day

through the Great Glen and the shore line of

tour of Lewis and Harris, with an island guide,

Loch Duich, passing Eilean Donan Castle, one of

including the impressive standing stones of

Scotland’s most photographed castle’s, before

Callanish (Scotland’s Stonehenge, but older).

checking into your overnight hotel, on or near Skye.

Ancient thatched “blackhouses”, with entrance and

Wednesday: The Uists Start your day with a

light lunch included, the Broth at Carloway and a

magnificent drive across Skye before catching the

visit to a Tweed Mill.

cruise from Isle of Skye to North Uist , with lunch

Driver Day off Option (Coach Hire and driver £350)

on board (own arrangements). In the afternoon, a scenic coastal tour of the Uists passing numerous tiny lochs and beaches, before checking into the Dark Island Hotel, Benbecula.

Saturday: Inverness and Spey Valley This morning we depart the Hebrides on the crossing to Ullapool, and head on to Inverness, the “Capital of the Highlands”, for a short stop. Then, through

Thursday: Isle of Harris After a leisurely breakfast

picturesque Spey Valley, and into Perthshire for

head north and the ferry crossing to the largest of

your last nights stay in a 3* hotel.

the Hebridean Islands, the Isle of Harris. A rugged landscape of moorland, deep-sea lochs, and mountains. Against this backdrop is a proud history

Sunday: Travel Home After breakfast head back home, or there is the option of adding a night for

Callanish Standing Stones, Lewis

Price Includes P 5 nights DBB P All ferries advised in itinerary P Service of a full day guided tour of Lewis and Harris P Choice 3 course dinner P 1 light lunch P Full Breakfast every morning P Free place for driver with over 25 paying passengers

1nt 2* Dunollie, Skye or 3* Lochalsh Hotel

or Balmacara (page 51)

Hotel nr Skye

1nt Dark Island Hotel Benbecula 2nts 3* Caberfeidh Hotel

or 2* Caladh (page 51)

Inn Stornoway

1nt 3* Speyside Hotel Perthshire

(page 49)

£49 pp DBB.

Driver day off option on Friday

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 7 days from

£309

(Lower than 2012)

Island Escapes Scottish Marine Wildlife Cruises Highlights P Small Isles Cruise P Wildlife Cruise P Isle of Skye P Osprey Centre

Dolphins off the coast of Eigg and Rhum

Wednesday Drivers Day off

T Av Opt wo ai ion la s bl e

Ullapool Gairloch Inverness Plockton Skye

Boat of Garten Mallaig

Rhum Fort William

This 2 centre tour is simply magnificent, based in the West Highlands on the Atlantic coastline. 2 cruises are included – one to the mystical isles of Eigg and Rhum and the second, depending on the option you take is either a summer isles cruise from Ullapool or a jaw dropping marine wildlife survey cruise from Gairloch, with every opportunity of seeing whales, eagles, dolphins, basking sharks, seals and more. Ending the tour at the Osprey Centre near Boat of Garten.

Seals near Arisaig

Due to the popularity of this unique style of holiday, we are offering more dates & a choice of 2 slightly different itineraries:

Price Includes

GOLD A most spectacular Wildlife Tour, staying in better class hotels with the opportunity for those who are fit and able and want an adrenalin filled adventure including a whale watching rib boat tour at speeds of over 30mph (max. 12pax). There is a more leisurely alternative available as well for up to 40 pax. Only once in the last 2 yrs has this tour come back without seeing any marine wildlife. The rib boat seeks out the whale pods and radios the other boats to maximise the chance of plenty of sightings. SILVER A less costly tour, using cheaper hotels & substituting the Wildlife Tour from Gairloch with a 2 hour summer isles cruise from Ullapool, with every chance of sighting seals, dolphins and occasional whales. Monday: Through Glencoe, past Fort William to your hotel for the next 3 nights. Tuesday: Eigg & Rhum Cruise Depart nearby Arisaig at 1100hrs on the MV Shearwater cruising to the Isles of Eigg and Rhum. Short stop at Eigg, where passengers can explore the island and walk the Scurr of Eigg, and be collected 5hrs later. Or continue to Rhum for 2hrs and walk to see the castle (walking shoes recommended). A wide array of sea and bird life can be spotted on and around the islands and it is not unusual to watch Minke Whales, Basking Sharks or Dolphins. Wednesday: Free Day Take a beach walk, a loch cruise or catch the famous West Highland line train to Fort William. Thursday: Isle of Skye & Atlantic coastline Ferry over to Skye, then to Broadford and if staying in Gairloch there is plenty time to travel to the islands capital Portree. Over the bridge to Kyle through magnificent Highland glen scenery passing Loch Maree and Loch Carron and your hotel for the next 2 nights. Gairloch guests have the added bonus of dinner on both nights in the award winning & very Scottish Olde Inn, approx 300 yards from the hotel. Friday: Marine Wildlife Cruise From Gairloch The 2+ hour cruise depts approx 1000hrs from very near the hotel. We offer two styles of cruising. Orca 1 is the ultimate boat trip max 12 pax. A ribbed craft travelling at high speed, with lots of sightings. Another 3 traditional boats carrying 40 pax cruise to get out to the traditional feeding

E: groups@classicbritain.com

grounds of whales, basking sharks & dolphins. Most cruises encounter thousands of seabirds, puffins and seals are pretty much guaranteed. The cruises actively search for marine wildlife and 99% of the time are successful. (Orca 1 is the largest “rib” vessel in the UK. Comfortable & safe with twin engines. Guests on the Rib have to be comfortable at travelling at high speed. Passengers in their 80’s have enjoyed the thrills of Orca. Guests can select the cruising option on booking). Afterwards, back to the hotel to change, before proceeding on a short tour to the Heritage Museum. From Ullapool A short walk from the hotel to the pier where the MV Summer Queen will take you on a 2+ hour cruise taking in the beauty of Loch Broom and the Summer Isles, encountering local seabirds, seals and even a chance to see Dolphins. We land on Tanera Mhor, the last inhabited Summer Isle and the last place in Britain to print its own stamps. On return your coach will be waiting to take you on an afternoon excursion. Saturday: The Highland Capital & Osprey Centre Depart for Inverness hugging the coastline, then inland over the moors before descending into Inverness with time free. Continuing south to see the Ospreys near Boat of Garten (May- Aug). You can book your stay in Speyside, Perthshire or as far south as Glasgow to suit your onward journey on Sunday. On all cruises we recommend warm clothing, gloves, secure hat and binoculars.

Pitlochry

P 6 nights DBB P Welcoming tea & shortbread on day 1 arrival P Full hot breakfasts P 1nts entertainment in Ullapool P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Cruise to Eigg & Rhum P Marine Wildlife cruise (Gold) P Summer Isles cruise (Silver) P Ferry from Mallaig to Skye P Entry into the Heritage Museum (Gold) P Commentary on all cruises

Gold Package 3nts 2nts 1 nt

3* West Highland, Mallaig 3* Gairloch Highland Lodge, Gairloch 3* Southbound Hotel

See pages 48, 50

Silver Package 3nts 2nts

3* Morar Hotel, Morar 2* Caledonian Hotel, Ullapool 3* Southbound Hotel

1 nt See pages 48, 50

On all cruises we recommend warm clothing, gloves, secure hat and binoculars.

Available May to September Rates and dates attached.

Suitable for all ages, without walking difficulties

From: 6 days

£254

Add an extra nt from £40 pp DBB

Island Escapes Wonderful Orkney Isles Highlights P Pitlochry P Inverness P Orkney Isles Cruise P Castle of Mey

Add a night in Stirling from £36 pp DBB

Warebeth beach, Orkney

The Orkneys Thurso

John o’ Groats Inverness

Loch Ness Fort William

Dunkeld

Stirling Glasgow

Perth Edinburgh

Italian Chapel, Orkney

Price Includes The Orkney Islands can be found in the far North of Scotland and are an archipelago of over 70 islands. The Orkneys offer unspoilt sea and landscapes, bountiful wildlife, outstanding archaeology and an opportunity to discover over 5,000 years of history. On this popular programme, the journey starts in Scotland as you travel to the far north you will pass majestic mountains, encounter magical sea scapes with time to explore Inverness, Perth and Pitlochry. The tour highlight being a full day guided tour of the Orkneys visiting most of the main sites, as well as entry into the Castle of Mey. Sunday: Travel North to your hotel in Perth or Dunkeld for your overnight stay in glorious Perthshire. Monday: Tour to the Northern Highlands After breakfast head north and into the Highlands, with a short stop in Pitlochry, before continuing into the Spey Valley passing the imposing Blair Atholl Castle, reaching Inverness about lunchtime. With free time to explore the Highland Capital. Onwards along the northeast coast, past Brora with its sandy beach and Fairytale Dunrobin Castle arriving at your hotel in time for a welcoming tea/coffee & cakes. Tuesday: Castle and Gardens of Mey Morning at leisure, before your short excursion along to the Queen Mother’s former residence, The Castle & Gardens of Mey, perched high on the cliff tops overlooking the Firth. You will have most of the afternoon to enjoy the castle and its gardens, along with the animal centre and tearoom.

Wednesday: John O’Groats & The Glorious Orkneys The highlight of the tour now beckons. Catch the 40 minute ferry crossing on foot from John O’Groats arriving on the Orkney Islands where you will meet your private coach & experienced tour guide. The tour includes some of the main sites on the islands including Skara Brae, The Churchill Barriers, Scapa Flow, Ring of Brodgar, The Standing Stones of Stenness, The Italian Chapel and Kirkwall with it’s magnificent 12th century cathedral. Thursday: Loch Ness Fort William & Glencoe Depart Thurso and travel south taking in the ever changing scenery, with some free time in Fort Augustus at the southern end of Loch Ness. Then onwards along the Great Glen to Fort William for a break continuing south through mighty Glencoe & Callander, checking in to your hotel in Stirling. Friday: After breakfast time to head for home.

P 5 Nights DBB P Welcoming tea/coffee & cakes on arrival in Thurso P Return ferry between John O’Groats & Orkneys P Full day island tour with guide & private coach P Entry to Castle of Mey P 3 Course choice dinners plus coffee P Full Scottish breakfasts P 1 free place for driver of over 25 paying passengers

Gold Package 1 nt 3nts 1 nt

3* Lovat Hotel, Perth 3* Pentlands Hotel, Thurso 3* Golden Lion Hotel, Stirling

See pages 47, 48 & 50

Silver Package 1 nt

3* Royal Dunkeld Hotel, Dunkeld

3nts

2* Castletown Hotel, Castletown by Thurso

1 nt

3* King Robert Hotel, Stirling

See pages 47, 48 & 50 Available May to September Rates and dates attached.

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 6 days

£439

Island Escapes Spectacular Orkney & Shetland Cruise Highlights P 2 nights on Orkneys P 1 day Shetlands P 2 days cruising

Add an extra night on the mainland from £40 DBB

St Ninian’s Beach, Shetlands

Orkney

Shetland

Thurso

Inverness Aviemore

Aberdeen

Perth Glasgow

Edinburgh

The Ships Both MV Hrossey & Hjaltland are modern ships, built in 2002, carry 600 passengers, with shops, restaurants, bars and a cinema.

Classic’s voyage of discovery to Europe’s remotest of islands is a true Scottish adventure. See how island lifestyle has little changed over the years being distinctly different from the hustle and bustle of mainland Britain. It is gentler, more relaxing and the spirit of the Isles is inspiring in both its culture and welcome. With the help of accompanying guides experience the islands history, archaeology, folklore, tradition & wildlife. An amazing way to get a taste of these unique northern islands, as well as taking in the unfolding landscapes as you journey through Scotland. Saturday: Journey through Scotland Travel to your 3* overnight accommodation in Scotland, A hotel will be selected to suit your travelling distance. Sunday: Cruise Aberdeen to Shetlands After breakfast you have all day to build in a tour as part of the holiday. The ship departs Aberdeen at 1700hrs on either the MV Hjaltland or Hrossey. You take your coach with you. Enjoy dinner on board with an overnight sailing staying in a 2 berth en suite cabin. Single cabins are available at a supplement. Monday: Shetlands Tour Wake up in Lerwick. After breakfast you join your coach & meet your guide for the day. (A driver can be arranged to move the coach off the ferry at Lerwick to assist with drivers hours.) A full day of sightseeing taking in the unspoilt coastline with huge cliffs with an abundance of wildlife including Puffins. See Shetland Ponies and the outstanding site of Jarlshof in the south and Scalloway Castle and Museum. Time free in the islands capital - Lerwick. Late afternoon return to your ship, with dinner served on board, arriving in Orkneys at 2300hrs with transfer to the 3* harbour side Stromness Hotel, Stromness.

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Tuesday: Orkneys Tour Your guide will meet you at the hotel after breakfast. A full day of sightseeing taking in the unspoilt sea and landscapes, bountiful wildlife, outstanding archaeology and an opportunity to discover over 5,000 years of history.Visiting World Heritage sites of Skara Brae, Stones of Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, plus Skaill House, Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel, Scapa Flow. Lunch at leisure in Kirkwall and visit St. Magnus Cathedral. Back to the Stromness Hotel for dinner and overnight. Wednesday: Inverness & Northern Highlands After a leisurely breakfast depart the Orkney Isles for the short crossing to the mainland landing at Scrabster by Thurso. Heading south the road hugs the coastline affording panoramic views of both sea and Highland moorlands, passing Wick, Helmsdale, reaching Inverness around lunchtime with time free. Continue south with ever changing landscapes unfolding as we pass through the mountainous Spey Valley and into Perthshire, reaching your chosen 3* hotel suited for your onward journey the next day.

Price Includes P 2 overnight hotels DBB P Welcome tea & coffee on Saturday P 1 night DBB on board the ship P 1 dinner on board ship/Entrance to all the guided attractions P A full day guided tour of Shetlands P Full day guided tour of Orkneys P 1 night BB, 1nt DBB on Orkneys P Free place for your driver over 25 paying passengers

Gold Package 3* Central Scotland 1 nt on ship 2 nts 3* Stromness Hotel, Orkney 1 nt 3* Perthshire area 1 nt

See pages 46, 47, 48 & 51 Available May to September Rates and dates attached

Important: All passengers must have photographic ID at on board check in

From: 5 days

£144

Add on a nt £35pp DB B

Scotland

New for 2013

Castles & Gardens of the Scottish Borders

Highlights P Threave Gardens P Drumlanrig Castle P Floors Castle P Border Towns

No single room supplement

Floors Castle, Scottish Borders

Edinburgh

Kelso

Hawick

Drumlanrig

Floors Castle

Galloway Gretna Sweetheart Abbey

Carlisle

Dumfries

Drumlanrig Castle Gardens

Price Includes Few can remain unmoved by the unspoilt beauty of this corner of Scotland. An area covering over 3000 square miles of forest, moorlands, mountains, coastlines, ancient monuments, abbeys & castles. The Grandeur of Galloway Forest Park & the romantic tale of Sweetheart Abbey. A visit to 2 of Scotland’s most amazing castles, and explore The Tweed Valley’s most famous sights such as 12th century Dryburgh abbey. The countryside is strewn with ruined castles and keeps, relics of the turbulent past when it was fought over by the English and the Scots, and plagued by endless clan warfare. Day 1: Elope to Gretna Green A destination where couples run away to be wed, in the days when Scotland had less strict wedding laws! To this day couples from all over the world get married at the famous “anvil” in the Blacksmiths shop, which is just a short walk from your hotel. Day 2: Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens Time free in the morning to stroll round Gretna, then we head north for the short journey to the impressive Drumlanrig Castle, set in a 90,000 acre estate, with deer roaming the parklands and well laid out gardens for you to explore. There are woodland walks and a guided tour of the castle, brimming with period furnishings, fine art and antiques. A very impressive Rennaisance castle rich in its heritage & culture. Day 3: Galloway Forest & Coastal Trail Today we explore the unspoilt beauty of this corner of Scotland. One of Scotland’s best kept secrets! Firstly, we hug the coastline heading south of Dumfries, with wonderful views across the Solway Firth, to see the romantic Sweetheart Abbey founded in 1273 by Lady Dervorgilla in memory of her husband John Balliol.

Refurbished hotel

A shrine to human and divine love is as appealing as its attractive setting. Time free in Castle Douglas then relax as you take in a truly unspoilt landscape as you sweep by Loch Ken and the 300 square miles of the Galloway Forest National Park. Continue to Dumfries with its Robert Burns connections. The largest town in the area with plenty shops and places of interest. Day 4: Floors Castle & the Border Towns Today’s tour weaves the history, culture & the stunning landscapes of the Tweed Valley and its Border Towns, such as Melrose & the imposing ruins of its Abbey where a casket cotaining Robert the Bruce’s heart is buried. See the dramatic views of medieval Dryburgh Abbey where Earl Haig and Sir Walter Scott are buried. Scotts View is nearby, the writers favourite spot & is worth stopping off at before visiting and exploring 18th century Floors Castle & Gardens near Kelso, with entry into the largest inhabited castle in Scotland. It is a unique Scottish visitor attraction with stunning interiors and magnificent gardens. Returning to Gretna via Hawick completing a circular tour of the west and central Borders region.

P Welcome tea & Shortbread on check in 4 P nts DBB P Full Hot breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P 2 nts entertainment P Entry into Floors Castle & Gardens P Entry into Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens P Free overnight coach parking P 1 free place if over 25 paying passengers

Sweetheart Abbey

3* Gretna Hall Hotel, Gretna Green See page 45 Available May – October Rates & Dates attached.

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 5 days

£159

Add on a nt from £34 pp DBB

Scotland Castle Parties in the Scottish Borders Highlights P Edinburgh P Floors Castle P Traquair House PScottish Evening

Traquair House

E to xclu Cla siv ss e ic

Combine with Edinburgh Tattoo in August Traquair House Edinburgh Peebles

Floors Castle

Langholm Melrose Carlisle

Floors Castle

Price Includes This is truly a most wonderful 5 day break, and available all year round, even in the height of the summer. How often do you have the chance for your group to stay in a Scottish castle and only pay 3 star hotel prices? Hard to believe but true! What’s more - Classic has put together a programme to enhance the Castle stay experience visiting unbelievable places like 12th century Traquair House and “fairytale” Floors Castle and gardens near Kelso. This is an ideal holiday for those looking for something a bit different. Sunday: Travel to Barony Castle Located in 25acres of its own grounds near Peebles. Welcoming tea, coffee, scones and pancakes awaits whilst your luggage is taken care of. Relax in one of the lounges looking out over the gardens before your 1st nights dinner.

beginning in 1124, continuing on to Floors Castle and Gardens –Scotlands largest inhabited castle and home to the Duke of Roxburghe. The castle dates back to 1721 and contains many fine paintings and antiques from all over the world. It is a romantic fairytale castle with its roofscape of turrets, pinnacles and cupolas. The gardens & grounds are vast being laid out in the early 1800’s. Allow upto 4 hrs to make the most of Floors before returning through the border towns of Kelso, Melrose and its Abbey – where Robert the Bruce’s heart is buried.

Monday: Traquair House After your 1st nights stay in the castle enjoy breakfast in the restaurant. This morning, you have time to relax, read one of the complimentary newspapers, or take a stroll round the gardens. A short drive takes you to Traquair House. Dating back to 1107. A refuge for Catholic Priests during the centuries of terror, and a hunting lodge for Kings and Queens. Traquair is a unique piece of living history, and one of the highlights of the holiday. Back to Barony Castle in time for a guided historical tour of the estate (walking shoes recommended) to build up your appetite for your evening meal.

Wednesday: Edinburgh No holiday can be complete without a visit to Scotland’s capital - voted one of the top cities in the world for sightseeing. There is so much to see and do from shopping to the many attractions. Return to Barony to relax, before preparing for your Scottish themed evening with piper and entertainment.

Tuesday: Floors Castle Following breakfast an exciting day awaits. Firstly to Galashiels, rich in history

Thursday: Farewell to your castle stay and “Haste Ye back”

E: groups@classicbritain.com

P 4 nights DBB, porterage P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Full Scottish breakfasts P Welcome tea, coffee, scones and pancakes P A guided tour of the Barony Estate P 1 Scottish themed evening with entertainment P Entry into Floors Castle & Gardens P Entry into Traquair House P Free use of leisure facilities P Driver free if over 25 paying pax, (1 in 20 Nov – April) P Free on site coach parking

Barony Castle Hotel, Peebles

3* Barony Castle Hotel Nr Peebles See Page 45 Available All Year Round Rates and dates attached

Prices lower than 2012

From: 5 days

£139

Add on a nt from 30 pp DBB

Scotland

Prices han lower t 1 20 2

Waterways of Scotland

Highlights P Steamship cruise P Falkirk Wheel Boatlift P Forth Bridges Cruise P Dunoon

Se Bes lle t r

Loch Katrine Cruise

3nts entertainment included at the Rob Roy Aberfoyle

Loch Katrine Forth Cruise

Arrochar Dunoon Falkirk Wheel

Drymen Callander Glasgow

Dunblane

Falkirk Wheel

Price Includes There are many famous and historical places in Scotland, none more so than the impact the Firth of Forth and Clyde have had on Scotland’s proud heritage. On this leisurely but action packed tour you will cruise on one of Scotland’s most beautiful Lochs in a steamship, be hoisted over 35 metres by the world’s only boat lift, marvel on the Forth Cruise as you sail under the famous road and rail bridges with the chance of spotting plenty of wildlife; be captivated by the “Queen of Scottish lochs” - Loch Lomond, as well as crossing the Firth of Clyde from the seaside resort of Dunoon.

P 4 nights DBB P Steam cruise on Loch Katrine P Entry to Falkirk Wheel & Boat lift P Forth Bridges Cruise P Ferry from Dunoon to Gourock P Full Scottish breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P 1 free place for your driver over 25 paying passengers

Day 1: Journey into Scotland Arrive at your chosen

continue towards Edinburgh, boarding the “Maid of

hotel, for welcoming tea & coffee & shortbread.

the Forth” for a memorable cruise under the famous

Day 2: Loch Katrine and the Trossachs A short

Forth Bridges and out towards Inchcolm Island to view

journey through the Glorious Trossachs will take you

various wildlife including seals, dolphins and puffins.

to Loch Katrine. Take your seat on the Steamship

Day 4: Five Lochs Tour A spectacular day out into

Sir Walter Scott with the beauty of the loch unfolding

“bonnie” Scottish countryside. First a trip to Loch

before you, which inspired Sir Walter Scott to write his

Lomond, the “Queen to the Scottish Lochs” before

famous poem. As you travel, the tales and legends of

turning off to Arrochar with its dramatic mountain

the loch will be narrated by a crew member. Afterwards

backdrop, known as the “Arrochar Alps” - continuing

continue on to Callander with some time free in

along the shoreline of Loch Fyne, Loch Eck and the

historical Stirling, with its famous castle, Bannockburn

famous Holy Loch to Dunoon, with time free for lunch.

heritage Centre and Wallace Monument before

Afterwards take the ferry across the Firth of Clyde to

returning to the hotel in time for dinner.

Gourock returning to your hotel over the River Clyde’s

3* Buchanan Arms Drymen

Day 3: Falkirk Wheel & Forth Bridges Cruise A short

Erskine Bridge.

2* Rob Roy Hotel Aberfoyle

drive takes you to the Falkirk Wheel, one of Scotland’s

Day 5: Travel Home After a hearty Scottish breakfast

top attractions. Your time here will involve a trip on

its time to pack your bags and head for home. Haste

See Page 46, 47

the boat to experience the only rotating boatlift in

ye back!

the world, joining the Union Canal. In the afternoon

Overnight hotels available

Maid of the Forth cruise

4* Dunblane Hydro Hotel near Stirling

Available April – October Rates and dates attached

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

Scotland

From: 5 days

£189

Add on a night from: £30 pp DBB

Touring Sco

From:

A Right Highland Safari

7 days

Highlights P Mountain Safari P Glamis Castle P Cairngorms

Add on a night from: £40 pp DBB

Panoram

£319

Highlights P Loch Ness Cru

Red Deer in Perthshire

The Scottish Highlands

Price Includes P 4 nights DBB P Welcoming tea & shortbread on arrival P Full Scottish breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P 2½ hour Highland Safari with Rangers P Lunch in one of Scotland’s oldest Inns P Guided Tour of Highland Wildlife Park P Entry into Glamis Castle & Gardens

Drivers day off Option

Classic has enhanced this tour, to bring you a truly memorable experience, exploring the beauty of two splendid regions: Perthshire and Speyside. Every opportunity will be given to see an abundance of wildlife in their natural habitat. A safari tour in 4x4’s up into a 250,000 acre Highland Estate led by kilted Rangers. Next, an interactive tour in the Highlands coming to close quarters with Scotland’s wildlife. Finally, and to top it all, entry into Glamis Castle, the childhood home of the Queen Mother. There is no strenuous walking on this holiday and is suitable for all ages.

Aberfeldy Stirling

Pitlochry Dunkeld Glamis Castle Edinburgh

3 centred

P Free Coach Parking P Free place for your driver over 25 paying passengers

difference

Drivers day off Option

nature of t

tops the scenery is breathtaking. There are regular sightings of Grouse, Mountain

Beauly Fort William

Dunkeld

Mountain chalet. Afterwards, we drive to the Kenmore Hotel, Aberfeldy by Loch Tay for lunch in one of Scotland’s oldest inns, before taking a scenic Perthshire

Stirling

Dundee

tour back to the hotel stopping off in Pitlochry. Wednesday: Cairngorm National Park An area of outstanding beauty. Firstly,

Dunfermline

a Park Ranger will join the coach for a guided tour of the Highland Wildlife Park - discover Scottish wildlife and endangered animals of the world’s mountains and tundra in a spectacular Highland setting. The park is home to wildcats, red deer, capercaillie, the only 2 Polar bears resident in the UK and many more. Afterwards

Dunkeld

Thursday: Glamis Castle Only an hour away from Dunkeld in the fertile valley of

3* Golden Lion Hotel

Stirling (1 night) see page 47

3* Priory Hotel

Beauly (3 nights) see page 50

3* Craws Nest Hotel

Strathmore is Glamis Castle & Gardens. Admire its stunning architecture, explore

Anstruther (2 nights) see page 48 or

its history, legends and myths or enjoy the surrounding beauty of the grounds

Pitbauchlie House Hotel

and gardens. The castle is famed as being the childhood home of the Queen

see page 48

Mother and the setting for Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’. We spend the afternoon at

Available May – October Rates and dates attached

Friday: After breakfast time to head for home.

Glamis before returning to the hotel via Kirriemuir and Blairgowrie.

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Lowlands.

traditional

Day 1: Travel to H

Ullapool

transport you in comfort and safety into the Europe’s last wilderness. From the

view at the head of Loch Tummel.

with its leg

P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee

Tuesday: Highland Safari Travel the short distance to meet up with your kilted

3* Birnam House Hotel

Dunkeld

the Great

Monday: Tea & shortbread awaits whilst you check in

free time in Aviemore. On the way back we stop off at Queen Victoria’s favourite

3* Royal Dunkeld Hotel

Highlands

P Steam Train Journey P Full Scottish breakfasts

hares, deer and Golden Eagles. Stop off for a “wee dram” and shortbread at a

Loch Tummel

Scotland h

P 6 nights DBB P Cruise on Loch Ness

Mountain safari rangers. Armed with your binoculars and cameras the 4x4’s will

Cairngorms

A tour is to

Price Includes

Dunfermline (2 nights) see page 47 Available May – September Hotels may be different, see attached rates and dates sheet.

Day 2: The Great travelling north th Memorial in Spean along the Great Gl mysterious Loch N the next 3nts.

Day 3: Free day i town. The train sta 14 miles away. Or journeys in the wo Driver Day off Opt

Day 4: Ullapool & the fishing and fer Corrieshalloch Go Gruinard Island (A about the Scottish scenery and wide

Day 5: Steam Tra Stopping off near journey to Aviemo Then its into Perth time to view the 1

Day 6: Ancestral with some of Sco Anstruther and Cr hotel in time for a

Day 7: Travel Hom continuing your jo

All Three Packages

otland

Scotland

From: 5 days

mic Scottish Rambler

Regal Scotland

£139

Add on a night from: £45 pp DBB

uise P Steam Train trip P Ullapool

Highlights P Blair Atholl P Scone Palace P Whisky Distillery P Glamis Castle P 3 nts entertainment

Scone Palace

o encompass the very best of what

has to offer. From the rugged West

s around Fort William, Loch Ness and Glen to the Kingdom of Fife complete

gends, history and golf courses. A holiday encapsulating the distinct

e between the Highlands and the

. In each location Classic has selected

l 3* Scottish hotels, in keeping with the

the tour.

Historic Stirling in time for dinner at the Golden Lion Hotel.

t Glen and Loch Ness Cruise After breakfast, we depart the hotel hrough Glencoe & Fort William, stopping off at the Commando n Bridge with views of Ben Nevis and photo opportunities. Continuing len to Fort Augustus. A cruise is arranged on the beautiful and Ness before arriving in Beauly and the highly rated Priory Hotel for

Price Includes P 4 nights DBB P Welcome Drinks reception P Entry & Guided Tour of Blair Atholl Castle P Guided tour and tasting at Blair Atholl Whisky Distillery P Cabaret Show & dance P Entry & Guided Tour of Scone Palace

me Head south over the Forth Road Bridge, passing Edinburgh and ourney home.

and enjoy the splendour of Scotland’s most impressive Castles & Palaces, as well as sampling various “brews” which is synominous to Scotland’s proud heritage. In addition, Classic has arranged bags of entertainment and a few little extras thrown in, to ensure this holiday will be a big hit with your clients.

P Free Liqueur P Taste of Scotland evening with traditional music & dance

Day 1: Welcome to Perthshire to a refreshing tea, scones and shortbread. Join the management team for a welcome drinks reception before dinner.

P 1 other nights entertainment

Includes 3 nts entertainment

Glamis Castle Blairgowrie

& North West Highlands Today a full day tour becons. Firstly, to rry terminal of Ullapool. Afterwards the tour continues past the orge, Little Loch Broom and a magnificent coastal drive passing Anthtrax Island) to Gairloch. Loch Maree is next typifying everything h Highlands. – Today is all about history, grandeur, mountains, e open spaces.

home of the Scottish monarchs World famous for its golf and otland’s best scenic attractions. Firstly, the pretty coastal villages of rail, before proceeding to St Andrews, the home of Golf. Back to the farewell Scottish dinner.

designed for passengers wishing to sample

P Entry into Glamis Castle & Gardens

in Beauly Explore this amazing area with many walks around the ation is about 10 minute walk away for travelling into Inverness, r on the Kyle Line to Isle of Skye, one of the most beautiful railway orld. The hotel can provide free transfers to and from the train station. tion.

ain & Spey Valley Journey south into glorious Speyside countryside. Grantown on Spey to pick up the steam train for the 40 minute ore, made famous in the popular TV series “Monarch of the Glen”. hshire passing Pitlochry and Scotland’s smallest city Dunkeld, with 14th century Cathedral and grounds leading down to the Tay.

Staying in glorious Perthshire, the package is

Blair Atholl Distillery Blair Atholl Castle Scone Palace

3*Angus Hotel Blairgowrie see page 48 Available March – November Rates and dates attached

have improved itineries

Day 2: Blair Atholl Castle and Distillery We have arranged entry into 13th century Blair Atholl Castle, set in the middle of rural Perthshire. An expert guide will take you around the castle with time free to stroll the gardens. After lunch ( own arrangements), the tour proceeds to nearby Blair Atholl Whisky Distillery for a guided tour and tasting. Dinner followed by a cabaret and dance. Day 3: Scone Palace After breakfast board your coach for the short drive to the breathtakingly beautiful Scone Palace, where a guide will be waiting to show you round what is probably Scotland’s finest Palace. For centuries, it was once the crowing place of Scottish kings, and regarded as the rightful home of the Stone of Destiny. Onwards to Perthshire Visitor Centre where you will be greeted with a liqueur, with time free. Tonight’s “Taste of Scotland dinner” is followed by an evening of dancing. Day 4: Glamis Castle Today’s tour starts with a scenic tour through the fertile Strathallan Valley to Glamis Castle, the childhood home of the Queen Mother as well as the setting for Shakespeare’s MacBeth. Whether you want to explore the legends of the castle or the beauty of the gardens you will not fail to be touched by the magic of Glamis. Afterwards, into Dundee for some free time. After dinner there is some in-house entertainment. Day 5: Head for home passing the famous Meikleour beach hedge, planted by Bonnie Prince Charlie’s troops in 1745 It is the largest hedge in the world, measuring 580 yards long and 120 feet high.

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 5 days

£169

Add on a nt from: £33 pp DBB

Scotland Romantic Highland Railways Highlights P Jacobite Steamtrain P Kyle lineP Aviemore steam P Glenfiddich

Fort William option now available

Steam Train on Glenfinnan Viaduct

Inverness

Glenfiddich

Kyle Skye Mallaig

Newtonmore /Kingussie Pitlochry

Glenfinnan Fort William

Perth Stirling

Train departing Kyle of Lochalsh

Price Includes Sit back relax and revel in some of Europe’s most breathtaking rail journeys, capturing the contrasting villages and towns of Inverness, Fort William, Aviemore and Kyle of Lochalsh. The dramatic landscape of the Highlands will glide past you as you sit back relax and absorb the Highlands ever-changing landscapes. Go back in time as the nostalgic Jacobite Steam Train, made famous in the Harry Potter movies. Also included are 2 other popular Highland rail excursions. Monday: Travel north through the Borders and arrive at the 3 star hotel of your choice, settling in time for dinner. Tuesday: Jacobite Steam Train reserved seats on the nostalgic West Highland line, steam hauled. Made famous in the Harry Potter movies. The journey takes approximately 2 hours each way with free time to explore the fishing village of Mallaig. The Jacobite Steam train is one of Europe’s most popular train journey’s absorbing Loch Eil, Caledonian Canal, Glenfinnan Viaduct & Monument and Loch Morar – Scotland’s deepest Loch. Absorb the beautiful views of Eigg, Muck and Rhum. Price includes ½ passengers on the outleg and remaining ½ on return with the coach taking the other ½ passengers each way. The rail journey is very different than by road. A stop will be made at Glenfinnan for photo opportunities of the monument, viaduct and Loch Shiel. Departing 10.20 from Fort William and returning 16.00. (2012 times). Wednesday: The Kyle Line from Inverness catch the train for Kyle of Lochalsh, by the Isle of Skye. A rail

E: groups@classicbritain.com

journey passing moorlands and mountain regions, quoted by Michael Palin as being one of the most beautiful rail journeys in Europe. Once in Kyle, a short journey with your coach over the bridge to Skye with time for sightseeing. Similar to Tuesday passengers do one leg by rail and the ot Broomhill A leisurely drive to Aviemore and free time to explore the resort and shops before boarding the Strathspey Steam train at 10.30am departing Aviemore to Broomhill – most famously known as Glenbogle in the popular ‘Monarch of the Glen’ TV series. Hauled by steam the one way 45 minute journey passes through Boat of Garten. From Newtonmore/Kingussie – guided tour and dram at Glenfiddich Whisky Distillery. Time free in Aviemore. Dinner with Scottish entertainment. From Fort William – Stop off at Commando Monument in Spean Bridge. Guided tour and dram at Ben Nevis Distillery. Back in time for dinner. Friday: Travel Home After breakfast it is time to travel home.

P 4 Nights DBB P 2 nights entertainment at the Balavil P 4 nights entertainment in Duke of Gordon

P One leg rail journey from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

P Single Steam Rail journey from Aviemore to Broomhill

P One leg rail journey on the Jacobite Steam Train

P Tour of a Whisky Distillery with a dram to taste (excluding West End)

P 3 course choice evening meals P Full Scottish breakfasts P Free place for driver over 25 paying passengers

P Free overnight coach parking

Strathspey Railway

3* Duke of Gordon Kingussie 3* Balavil Hotel Newtonmore 3* West End Hotel Fort William See Page 49 Available May – October Rates and dates attached

Free tea/coffee and shortbread on arrival in Newtonmore

From: 5 days

£124

Add an extra nt £30 pp DBB

Scotland Royal Deeside & the Whisky Trail

e Exclusiv al r o Balm Estate walk

A combination Tour: A walking option or touring option or both!

For Walkers: 5 Days from £179

For Tourers: 5 Days from £124

Classic has teamed up with the most experienced and well respected

Royal Deeside is not only a particularly beautiful area, but also is a

walking operator in Royal Deeside. Alan Melrose and his skilled team

place much loved by the Royal Family. Visit the Royal Family’s Scottish

will not only lead you through stunning countryside, seeing mountains

residence, have a ‘wee’ tipple on the whisky trail & explore the delights

river, glens and a castle, but also tell you “believe it or not” stories

of Scotland’s 3rd largest seaside city. A wonderful diverse tour & one of

about the local history, folklore, myths and legends along the way.

our best priced holidays in Scotland.

Walking in Royal Deeside

Balmoral Castle

Price Includes P Welcoming tea/coffee and shortbread on arrival P 4 nts DBB P 3 Guided walks P 3 packed lunches P 2nts entertainment (Huntly Arms) P Drying room (Huntly Arms) P Driver free if over 25 paying pax.

Things you need to know • The 3 walks are of a moderate walking grade, conducted at a leisurely pace, where a reasonable level of fitness is required. The walks are on paths or tracks. Each walk is about 8 miles long, allowing 5/6 hours, with plenty stops along the way. • Qualified Guides on all walks max. 15:1 ratio (min. 8 walkers) • Walks designed with exit points which can be utilised if required. • Support Transport included if needed • All guides are fully qualified & have 1st aid certificates • Public Liability insurance included • Proper waterproof walking boots & clothing required & not supplied. Walking poles useful • Hotels have a drying room (except Deeside Inn) • Walks are subject to change, depending on the weather • Recommended to bring binoculars, thermos flask, midge repellent, sunscreen, personal 1st aid kit, camera and small day backpack. Suitable for all ages; for both ramblers and for those wishing to get into the great outdoors but have not done many or any off the beaten track walks.

Classic has enhanced two popular Royal Deeside holidays, providing you with three options: You can either select the walking or touring holiday on their own or combine both to attract a wider audience. Passengers on the walking holiday will be dropped off by your coach each morning and join their walking guides. Your coach then visits the attractions listed in the itinerary, returning in the afternoon to pick up the walkers, before returning to the hotel in time for dinner. Monday: Travel to Scotland arriving to a welcoming cup of tea and shortbread Tuesday: Balmoral Estate & Castle A specially organised walk, through the private estate of Balmoral Castle - an exclusive for Classic guests. It is a circular walk of 8 miles in one of Scotland’s most stunning glens overshadowed by Lochnagar Mountain, overlooking Balmoral Castle. Pass the Royal Lodge of Glas-allt-Shiel before reaching Dubh Loch. Possibilities of sighting deer, buzzards and Golden Eagles. Wednesday: Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve Witness the dramatic effects of glaciation on the Deeside landscape, see where these huge glaciers gouged out this landscape. We will enter the hidden gem of the Burn o’ Vat, and walk around shimmering lochs left by the retreating glacier millions of years ago. Moving on to see ancient sites of habitation going back 4000years. Thursday: The ancient Forest of Glen Tanar View the unique Glen Tanar Hall with its 700 stags heads. Walk alongside the Water of Tanar through the old Caledonian Pine forest and up on to moorland, where there are open views across Royal Deeside towards Cairngorms. Our route takes us along the ancient drover routes, where sheep and cattle were driven from the Highlands to Lowland markets in the 1700’s. Picnic by the River Tanar & listen to tales of the old drovers. Friday: Travel Home Time to head for home after breakfast

Monday: Journey to Scotland arrive at your hotel to a welcoming cuppa.

Price Includes P Welcoming tea/coffee on arrival P 4 nights DBB P Entrance into Balmoral or Glamis Castle P Guided tour of Glenfiddich Whisky Distillery P 2 nights entertainment P Free overnight coach parking

Glenfiddich Tomintoul Balmoral Braemar Perth Glasgow

Ballater Aberdeen Aboyne Glamis Edinburgh

3* Huntly Arms Hotel Aboyne 3* Deeside Inn Ballater See page 48 Available May – September Rates and Dates attached

Overnight hotels: See pages 44,45 & 46

Tuesday: (April – July) Balmoral Castle After a leisurely breakfast a tour of Royal Deeside, visiting Ballater & entrance into the nearby Royal Family’s Scottish Holiday home - Balmoral Castle & grounds, then onwards to the picturesque village of Braemar, with time for a roam round. Returning to the hotel in time for dinner followed by entertainment. (Aug – Oct) Glamis Castle , near Dundee is one of Scotland’s most attractive castles and has glorious gardens to stroll round. Wednesday: The Whisky Trail A tour over the Lecht and Tomintoul, the UK’s highest village & into Speyside, with its world famous whisky trail & 14 distilleries. We take the journey along this trail past distilleries, castles and taking in magnificent mountain views. We stop off for a guided tour of the famous Glenfiddich whisky distillery. Thursday: Aberdeen & Royal Deeside Towards Aberdeen, passing through the pretty villages of Banchory and Peterculter. Time free in Aberdeen for some shopping before heading back to the hotel for a Scottish dinner with entertainment (Huntly Arms). Friday: Travel Home Time to head for home after breakfast.

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 5 days

£194

Add an extra nt £42 pp DBB

Scotland

New for 2013

Fort William & the Isle of Skye

Highlights P Scenic Rail journey P Isle of Skye P Inverness P Oban P Whisky Tasting

Lochside, central hotel

Loch Linnhe with Fort William in the distance

Portree Kyle

Inverness Loch Ness

Armadale

Mallaig Fort Augustus Fort William

Oban

Crianlarich

Steam Train on West Highland Line

Price Includes Its been a while since we featured Fort William as a destination. We are pleased to re-introduce this tour, more so as we have allocated space in what we consider to be by far the best hotel for groups in the town. Fort William, at the foot of Ben Nevis, is the main settlement in the Western Highlands. From here there is so much to explore. The package brings together, without rushing about the best of the Highlands from a visit to the Isle of Skye to a scenic train journey, to a loch cruise and a visit to the Highlands Capital. An encapsulating holiday set against a backdrop of mountains lochs and glens.

P 4nts DBB P Full Hot breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinners P Rail journey on West Highland Line P Ferry to Isle of Skye P Soup & sandwich lunch in Oban P Free overnight coach parking P 1 free place over 25 paying passengers

Monday: As you travel north into the Highlands sit

of Skye, where your coach will meet you. On through

back and take in the scenery as it unfolds before you

grand mountain and seaview scenery to Portree the

– gliding through eerie Glencoe before arriving at your

Islands capital with time free. We return over the bridge,

hotel in time for dinner.

past Eilean Donan Castle and back to Fort William. A

Tuesday: Loch Ness & Inverness After a leisurely

fabulous circular tour capturing so much of the Highland

breakfast, we head for Inverness, the capital of the

landscapes.

Highlands. Much of the 66 mile journey hugs the

Thursday: Oban A leisurely drive along the shoreline

shoreline of Loch Ness. We stop off at Fort Augustus at

of Loch Linnhe takes you to Oban some 45 miles away.

the head of the loch before proceeding past Urquhart

Sheltered in a bay Oban has a picture postcard setting

Castle, where many “supposed” sightings of Nessie have

surrounded by mountains inspiring painters, poets,

been made. Time free in Inverness, returning down the

writers and composers over the centuries. A light lunch

eastern side of the loch and back to your hotel.

has been arranged in the Caledonian Hotel over looking

Wednesday: Isle of Skye Circular The highlight of the

the harbour. Afterwards time to see the sights before

holiday is going over the sea to Skye. Firstly, we board

returning to Fort William for your final nights dinner.

3* West End Hotel Fort William

the train to Mallaig. The West Highland Line is one of the

Friday: After breakfast time to head for home. Overnight

See Page 49

most famous rail journeys in the world, made famous

accommodation can be arranged in the Glasgow or

in the Harry Potter films. At Mallaig, take the short

Stirling area from £38pp so you can continue your holiday

walk across to the ferry for the sailing over to the Isle

around the Loch Lomond area.

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Fort William High Street

Available April – October Rates and dates attached

Option of northbound hotel in Stirling area from £38pp DBB

From: 8 days

£359

Add on a nt from £40

Scotland

New for 2013

Scotland’s North West Passage Highlights P Isle of Skye P North West Highlands P Orkney Isles P Inverness

Driver free with over 20 paying passengers

Eilean Donan Castle

Thurso Durness Ullapool Gairloch Portree

Orkney John o’ Groats

Dunrobin Castle Inverness

Dunvegan

Balmacara Pitlochry Fort William Stirling Glasgow

This 8 day spectacular Scottish Tour takes you on a Discovery journey. Sit back and relax as the beauty of the Highlands unfolds before you. Eerie Glencoe, Loch Duich, Eilean Donan Castle, Isle of Skye and the unspoilt and breathtaking Sutherland & Caithness. A cruise and tour of the Orkney Isles, Inverness, Speyside and finally Central Scotland. On this tour you will witness a way of life in the far north that has little changed in generations. Day 1: Break for the Scottish Border and Glasgow for your overnight stay. Day 2: West Highlands The magic begins, the journey heads north along the “queen of Scottish lochs” – Loch Lomond, we hug the shore line for over 20 miles. Proceeding on through mountainous Glencoe, where the road sweeps through the narrow glen before opening up to Loch Linhhe and Fort William in time for lunch (own arrangements). The tour continues along Loch Lochy, Loch Garry, Loch Cluanie and Loch Duich, with a stop at Eilean Donan Castle, which is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland. Next 2 nights in the 3* Balmacara Hotel. Day 3: Isle of Skye A more leisurely day taking in the sights of the most famous of Scottish Islands - the Isle of Skye. We head to Portree the islands capital. The tour sweeps across the island to historical Dunvegan Castle and its gardens, the stronghold of the Macleod clan and the longest inhabited castle in Scotland for over 800 yrs. Returning along the coast road, with views of the Cuillens, the most impressive mountain range in the UK. Back in time for dinner. Day 4: Loch Maree and Ullapool We head along the west coast to Ullapool. Along the shoreline of Loch Maree, with time free in Gairloch, passing Inverewe Gardens and Guinard Island. Continuing to Ullapool for your overnight stay & entertainment. Day 5: Caithness and Sutherland Armed with your packed lunch the tour heads into a part of the UK where very few people have been. Those that do, rarely return disappointed. It is truly an area of extraordinary beauty. Mile upon mile of crumbling cliffs

and sheer rocky headlands shelter bays whose perfect white beaches are nearly always deserted, somewhat incongruously, they’re also home to Scotland’s best surfing waves. A walkers and wildlife watchers paradise, with huge seabird colonies clustered in clefts on remote stacks at regular intervals along the coast; seals also bob around in the surf offshore. We stop off at Durness, the UK’s most North westerly town, for lunch before continuing along the northern shoreline to Thurso and your hotel for the next 2 nights. Day 6: Orkney Isles After breakfast the short journey takes you past the Queen Mums Scottish residence – the Castle of Mey, to John O Groats where we pick up the Orkney Ferry. The crossing takes about 40 minutes. On the Orkneys you will be met by your private coach and experienced driver/guide. The Highlights of the tour includes some of the main sites on the island including Scara Brae, the Churchill Barriers, Scapa Flow, Ring of Brodgar, The Standing Stones, the Italian Chapel, the islands capital Kirkwall with its 12th century cathedral. Day 7: Inverness and Pitlochry Heading south, stopping off at Dunrobin Castle. On to the cosmopolitan Highland capital of Inverness, with time free. Afterwards the scenery changes, we travel through the Spey Valley and into Perthshire, past Blair Atholl Castle, with some free time in Pitlochry, by passing Perth before reaching your 3* hotel in Stirling area. Day 8: After your final Scottish breakfast time to head for home.

John O’Groats Ferry to Orkney

Price Includes P 7 nights DBB P Full Hot Scottish breakfasts P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P 1 nights entertainment in Ullapool P Dunvegan Castle & gardens P 1 packed lunch P Orkneys Cruise & Guided tour

Orkney Isles

Min 3* Glasgow area hotel (1nt) 3* Balmacara Hotel by Skye (2nts) 2* Caledonian Hotel Ullapool (1nt) 3* Pentlands Hotel Thurso (2nts) or 2* Castletown Hotel by Thurso (2nts) 3* Stirling Area Hotel (1nt) See pages 46, 47, 50 and 51 Available May – September Rates and dates attached

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 6 days

£234

Scotland

New for 2013

Spectacular Gardens & Castles of Scotland

Highlights P Aberdeen P Cawdor Castle Gardens P Botanical Gardens P Scone Palace

No Single Room Supplement at 8 Acres

Crathes Castle

Nairn Inverness

Elgin Aberdeen

Cawdor Castle

Crathies Castle

Grantown Perth

Scone Palace Dunfermline

Glasgow Edinburgh Biggar

With a growing interest in gardens and the great outdoors Classic brings you an exciting new tour suitable for gardeners and non-gardeners alike visiting five very different gardens, from the wonders of McBeths 16th century Cawdor Castle to Europe’s largest indoor gardens in Aberdeen. There are walled gardens, historical rock gardens, and landscaped parklands. Not only are the gardens an infusion of colour and delight, but also there is an abundance of scenery every step of the way. The holiday visits three of Scotland’s major cities and covers the Grampian & Central Highlands, the North East Coast & the Kingdom of Fife. Day 1: Travel through Scotland Past Glasgow and into Perthshire then Speyside to check in at your chosen hotel for your next 3 nights, for welcoming tea & shortbread. Day 2: Inverness & Cawdor Castle Today we head along the coast, past Culloden and into Inverness, for a relaxing morning. We take a slight detour to a Loch Ness vantage point for photo opportunities and then we visit the 2000 year old Clava Cairns on the way to nearby Cawdor Castle, scene of Shakespeare’s McBeth. We stop here for most of the afternoon, to stroll the gardens dating back to the 1600’s. Classic has arranged for a re-vitalising hot drink and a tray bake before returning to your hotel. Day 3: Aberdeen, Grampian Highlands & Crathes Gardens A magical day awaits, we travel through the Moray countryside to Aberdeen, for a tour of the city before visiting “The Winter Gardens” - Europe’s largest indoor gardens. After lunchtime, we continue to nearby Crathes Castle & Gardens with its fairytale-like turrets, gargoyles and the ancient Horn of Leys given in 1323 by Robert the Bruce. The famous gardens feature great yew hedges and colourful double herbaceous borders. Further a field, the 595-acre estate offers six separate trails to enjoy. Returning to your hotel amongst magnificent Highland scenery.

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Day 4: Whisky Trail & Scone Palace After breakfast, we depart the hotel heading south along the whisky trail, with its 9 distilleries. We stop off in Grantown on Spey before proceeding through Perthshire, past Blair Atholl Castle and to Scone Palace, near Perth. We spend most of the afternoon here exploring the wonderful gardens and Palace, home to the “Stone of Destiny”, arriving at your hotel in the ancient capital of Scotland – Dunfermline, for your next 2 nights. Day 5: Edinburgh & the Botanical Gardens The 15 mile journey into central Edinburgh takes us over the Forth Road Bridge. Morning free in Edinburgh. Passengers can either enjoy most of the day enjoying the sights. Or, after lunch be collected by your coach and taken to the famous Botanical Gardens - world renowned for its horticultural excellence. Over 70 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds providing a tranquil haven just one mile from the city centre. Entry into the gardens is free, with the option of paying to go into the glasshouses. Day 6: The Borders & home Round Edinburgh and on to the A702 will take you on a scenic drive south through the Pentland Hills & the market town of Biggar before connecting with the M74 for your journey home.

Crathes Gardens

Price Includes P Welcome tea and shortbread on Day 1 P 5 nts DBB (3nts Elgin, 2nts Fife) P Entrance into Cawdor Gardens with hot drink and tray bake P Entrance into Crathes Gardens P Entrance into Scone Palace & Gardens P Entrance into Edinburgh’s Botanical Gardens P Entrance into Aberdeens Winter Gardens P 1 free place for driver over 25 paying passengers

Scone Palace 3 nts or 3 nts 2 nts or 2 nts

3* Eight Acres Hotel Elgin 2* Stotfield Hotel

Lossiemouth

3* Pitbauchlie House

Dunfermline

3* Queensferry Hotel

North Queensferry

See pages 47 & 48 Available May to September Rates and dates attached

Overnight hotel Borders/Glasgow from £35 DBB

From: 5 days

£189

Add an extra nt £36 pp DBB

Scotland

Best Seller 2012

Boats and Trains of the Highlands and Islands

Highlights P Glass Bottom Boat P Loch Ness Cruise P Mountain Railway P Kyle Line

Driver free with over 25 passengers

Urquhart Castle with Loch Ness in background

Heather Centre Skye Cruise Inverness Kyle

line

Kyle

Loch Ness Cruise Carrbridge

Funicula Railway

Cairngorm Mountain Railway

Price Includes Classics Boats and Trains package was our 2nd most popular package in 2012. A holiday which is sure to delight as it includes lots of different and exciting things in this vast and unspoilt Highland region. The holiday is based in the epicentre of Highland grandeur. Included is a trip on one of the most stunning rail journeys in the world; a cruise on a glass bottom boat around part of Skye. Experience the wonders of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle before a jaw-dropping journey on a mountain railway to the highest restaurant in the UK, where you can take in the glorious views of the Cairngorm Mountains. Monday: Enter the Highlands past Pitlochry and Aviemore and to your hotel for welcoming tea & shortbread before dinner. Tuesday: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle Morning free to explore Inverness, there are many shops and things to do before taking the short journey to the Loch Ness Clansman Harbour. Here you will board the cruiser to take you out onto the Loch berthing at Urquhart Castle. Entrance is included to the visitor centre, and you can roam round the castle grounds before boarding your coach waiting at Urquhart Castle, returning to your hotel in plenty time for dinner. Wednesday: Kyle Railway Line and Skye Cruise After breakfast head to the ‘Capital of the Highlands’, Inverness. Where half the passengers will board the train to Kyle of Lochalsh, referred to by Michael Palin as one of the most outstanding railway journeys in the world. (The other half taking the journey by coach). Once you arrive in Kyle of Lochalsh, passengers will climb aboard Seaprobe

P Welcome tea and shortbread on arrival P 4 nts DBB P One leg of The Kyle Railway Line P Cruise on Seaprobe Atlantis Glass Bottom Boat P Cruise on Loch Ness and Entrance to Urquhart Castle P Return Journey on the Cairngorm Funicular Mountain Railway P 3 nights entertainment, 1 Scottish Night. (Carrbridge Hotel)

Atlantis, a glass bottom boat, for a cruise heading underneath Skye bridge and out to Seal Island. You will have a chance to see the local wildlife above and below the water, such as seals and jelly fish. Return to Kyle where the other half of the passengers will take the return journey to Inverness. The journey by road is different to the rail. Returning to the hotel in time for dinner. Thursday: Aviemore and Funicular Railway Morning free then the short journey will take you to the magnificent Cairngorm Mountains. Firstly, time in Aviemore before you board the UK’s highest Mountain Railway, have a bite to eat in the UK’s highest restaurant, visit the shop and exhibition about the Cairngorms or take one of the many walks around the area. Return to your coach, stopping for a visit at the Speyside Heather Garden and Visitor Centre near Dulnain Bridge before returning to your hotel in time for dinner.

3* Carrbridge Hotel Carrbridge

Friday: Travel Home After breakfast it is time to head back home, or, stay an extra night from £35 pp.

Available April – October Rates and dates attached

Overnight hotels: See pages 44, 45 & 46

Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle)

3* Craiglynne Hotel Grantown on Spey

See Page 49

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 5 days

£134

Add an extra nt £30 DBB

Scotland

New for 2013

Scotland’s Autumn Gold

Highlights P Enchanted Forest P Glamis Castle P Whisky Centre P Queens View Overnight hotels available in the Borders from £36pp DBB

Autumn tints in Perthshire

Bruar

Blairgowrie

Queensview Crieff Dewers World of Whisky Perth Pitlochry Dunkeld

Glamis

Dundee

Dewars Whisky, Aberfeldy

Arguably, Scotland is at its best when the glens & mountains explode into colour. The first trees start to turn in mid September followed in October by a succession of breathtaking colours - deep red, gold, purple, copper and russets - lasting right through until early November. This is the time of year for Scotland, where hotel prices are less, the roads and attractions quieter, providing plenty time to be immersed in a palette of amazing colours, be surrounded by magnificent scenery - purple heather clad hillsides, arboreal golden displays with shimmering lochs reflecting this rich glory. And to top it all included for those staying in the Fishers Hotel is the creative backdrop of “The Enchanted Forest” - depicting nature’s forces - earth, wind, fire and water. Day1: To Scotland Past Stirling & its Castle and into

recommend taking the short detour into Dundee before

Perthshire “the Big Tree Country”, renowned for its

returning to your hotel. After dinner, guests staying at the

magnificent natural environment & to your hotel.

Fishers between (prov. 22 Oct – 8 Nov) have entry into

Day 2: Lochs & Whisky Todays tour takes you out into

the award winning “The Enchanted Forest” sound and

glorious countryside. Firstly, to Crieff for a brief stop

light show offering a unique opportunity to experience

before continuing through the Perthshire villages of

the outdoors at night and with spectacular imagery. (15

Comrie and St Fillans then along the shores of Loch

minute walk from the hotel). Using the woodland garden

Earn and the mighty Loch Tay. A tour and tasting has

as a natural backdrop, experience a light show that is,

been arranged at Dewars World of Whisky, explaining the

quite simply, out of this world.

history of the whisky with a short audio visual then on to

Day 4: Loch Tummel & the Queens View Morning

the Heritage Centre for a tasting before a guided tour of

free to relax or stroll round the town. There is plenty

Aberfeldy Distillery. Back in time for dinner.

to see. After lunch a short drive to the Queens View at

Day 3: Glamis Castle & Gardens After a leisurely

the head of Loch Tummel – Queen Victoria’s favourite

breakfast, the autumn theme of the holiday continues

spot, and in the autumn a magnificent site of purple clad

with the short drive to Glamis Castle & Gardens - the

hillsides, a shimmering loch and rustic autumn leaves. A

childhood home of the Queen Mother. Most of the day is

short distance away is the House of Bruar – a 1st class

spent in this impressive setting. In autumn the abundance

shopping venue for quality Scottish clothing. Behind the

of trees in the grounds ensures the visitor is treated to a

shop is a wonderful nature trail taking you through the

glorious spectacle of autumnal colour. There are various

Forest to the Bruar Waterfalls. The walk will only take

nature trails with many exotic trees and plants. The Castle

20 minutes each way, but is worthwhile to see (walking

itself is a place to admire its stunning architecture, to

shoes recommended.)

explore its history, legends and myths. If time permits we

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Price Includes P Welcome refreshments on arrival P nights DBB P 2 nights entertainment P Entry into the Enchanted Forest and Show (from Fishers) P Entry into Dewars World of Whisky P Entry to Glamis Castle & Gardens P Free place for your driver over 25 paying pax

Glamis Castle

3* Royal Dunkeld Hotel Dunkeld 3* New Fishers Hotel Pitlochry 3* Angus Hotel Blairgowrie See Page 48 Available most weeks between 15th September – 8th November Rates & dates attached

Speyside is also an excellent autumn destination

7 days from

£379

7 days with walk £417 pp

Scotland

New for 2013

Islands & Coastal Adventure

Highlights P Isle of Mull & Iona P Ardnamurchan Guided Walk P RRS Discovery

Drivers day off on Wednesday

Isle of Mull

Ardnamurchan Glencoe Mull

Loch Tay

Dundee

Oban St. Andrews

Iona Glasgow

Edinburgh

Iona Abbey

A real gem of a trans-Scottish adventure. This magical tour takes in the Isle of Mull, where you will see the cradle of Christianity on the sacred Isle of Iona. We have arranged for passengers to opt for an easily graded wildlife guided walk, which will bring home memories of a fantastic island experience. The holiday doesn’t end there & continues through the wilderness of Ardnamurchan and on to the east coast, with time in St Andrews, completing the holiday on board the ship which took Captain Cook to Antartica in 1900. Sunday: Glasgow & the River Clyde Travel through

the Magic of Mull with a full day easily graded guided

Scotland to your hotel located on the banks of the

walking tour rambling through glens, past shimmering

River Clyde

lochs, deserted white beaches and cascading

Monday: Oban & Isle of Mull Along the shoreline of

waterfalls. Packed Lunches included.

Loch Lomond and into the Highlands. Every corner

(Suitable walking gear required and have a reasonable

turned opens up a new vista. Loch Awe and the

level of fitness as paths can be muddy. 6-7 mile walk

dramatic ruin of Kilchurn Castle, The Pass of Brander

4-5hrs). Walkers will be collected and dropped off at

before reaching Oban, where there is some free

the hotel.

Price Includes P 6 nts DBB P Welcome tea/biscuits at Erskine P Free leisure in all hotels P All ferries as described P Mull Wildlife presentation P Admission to board RRS Discovery P Guided walk on Mull option + £38pp Including packed lunch P Visit to Caithness Glass P Driver free over 25 paying passengers

time before catching the 1 hour sailing to the Isle of

Thursday: Ardnamurchan Peninsula & Glencoe

Mull, passing the 400 year old Duart Castle, standing

Depart Mull on the Fishnish ferry to Lochaline over

proudly in a spectacular position, on a cliff top

to the mountainous region that is Ardamurchan.

guarding the Sound of Mull.

The short ferry crossing at Corran near Fort William

Tuesday: Isle of Iona The 30 mile journey to

connects with the road through Glencoe, stopping in

Fionnphort passes wonderful island scenery as well as

Tyndrum for refreshments. Continue east passing Loch

the castles of Torosay and Duart. There is a short foot

Earn and Comrie before stopping off for a factory tour

crossing by ferry to the sacred Isle of Iona, the burial

of Caithness Glass in Crieff, where you can see glass

place of over 100 Scottish Kings and the birthplace

being crafted by hand in a close up environment. You

of Christianity. Entry into the Abbey will give you an

can even have a go yourself! Afterwards to your 4*

idea of what life was like on this tiny island. A place

hotel on the outskirts of Dundee.

which holds a unique place in the story of Scotland

Friday: RRS Discovery & St Andrews The holiday is

and kindles the imagination of thousands who journey

completed with a visit to the vibrant city of Dundee on

here each year. After dinner there is an interesting

the shoreline of the Firth of Tay. Admission is included

presentation & short film from the Mull Wildlife Charity

1nt

to board the RRS Discovery, the ship Captain Cook

Trust providing an insight into the protection &

used on his Antartica Expedition in 1900 - 04. Then

3nts

interaction of island and marine wildlife.

across the Tay Bridge and into Fife with a visit to the

Wednesday: Guided Walk or Free Day An option of

University town of St Andrews. Made famous for its

either having a relaxing day at the hotel, go for a stroll

Royal connections and the home of golf.

in the nearby gardens of Torosay Castle. Or, engage in

Saturday: After breakfast homeward bound.

Guided walking option on Isle of Mull available

P Free overnight coach parking

RRS Discovery, Dundee

3* Erskine Bridge Hotel Erskine 3* Isle of Mull Hotel Craignure 2nts 4* Landmark Hotel, Dundee See pages 46, 48 and 51 Available May – September Rates & dates attached.

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 5 days

£164

Add on a nt from £30 pp DBB

Scotland

New for 2013

Argyll Highlands & Isle of Bute

Highlights P Rail Journey P Ferry to Mount Stuart P The “Hollow Mountain” P Castle lunch

Inveraray Castle

Extra night from £30 pppn DBB Crianlarich Oban Tarbert

Hollow Mountain

Arrochar

Inveraray Tarbert

Glasgow Mount Stuart Palace

Rothesay Harbour

Price Includes A tour which includes all the best bits about Scotland, based in dramatic West Highland mountain scenery, with your hotel overlooking the loch. On this awe inspiring holiday you’ll be transported across the water to the Isle of Bute and the Victorian seaside town of Rothesay. There’s a guided tour of the UK’s largest underground Hydro Electric Plant, and we have arranged for you to dine in the old kitchens at the Duke of Argyll’s Inveraray Castle. Furthermore, there’s a leisurely rail journey along the shoreline of Loch Lomond, and a visit to the lavish Mount Stuart Palace and gardens. Day 1: Scotland & Loch Lomond Past Glasgow and

seaside resort of Rothesay. Included is entry into the

along the shoreline of Loch Lomond, check in to your

Gothic mansion of Mount Stuart, a testament to the

hotel with a welcoming refreshment.

Stuarts passion and flamboyance. A lavish Palace,

P Welcome refreshment on check in P 4 nts DBB P Guided Tour of the “Hollow Mountain” P Ferry crossings as described P Entry into Mount Stuart Palace & Gardens Private lunch at Inveraray Castle P Single rail journey on West Highland P Line, Tarbet - Crianlarich P 1 free place for your driver over 25 pax P Entertainment most nights in Arrochar

arguably one of the best in the UK, with sumptuous rich Day 2: Inveraray Castle & “Hollow Mountain” After a leisurely breakfast we head past Loch Awe and Kilchurn Castle to Ben Cruachan Power Station, one of the hidden

rooms and a 300 acre labyrinth of impressive gardens. Returning on the 1715 sailing, back in plenty of time for dinner.

wonders of the Scottish Highlands. An underground world on a spectacular scale. A Hollow mountain buried

Day 4: Highland Train Journey Yet another different but

1km below ground, a hollow mountain as high as the

exciting day ahead. We head to Tarbet on Loch Lomond

Tower of London. A guided tour will lead you through a

to catch the train to Crianlarich. The train track sits higher

different world of the rapid response Hydro Electric plant.

than the road giving you fantastic views of the Loch and

Afterwards to Inveraray Castle for a private lunch in the

mountains. The coach collects you at Crianlarich heading

Crianlarich Train Station

castle’s old kitchens, with the afternoon to explore the

further north to Tyndrum, with time free for lunch. We

grounds of this renaissance castle.

continue our scenic journey along Glen Lochy and back

2* Arrochar Hotel Arrochar 3* Inveraray Hotel Inveraray

to the hotel with plenty time to relax before your final Day 3: Isle of Bute & Mount Stuart Head south along

dinner.

the Mull of Kintyre to catch the 1015 sailing from Tarbert across to the Isle of Bute. We head towards the Victorian

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Day 5: After breakfast its time to head for home.

See Page 49 Available April – October Rates and dates attached

Option of northbound hotel in Stirling area from £38pp DBB

5 days from

£189

(Available April – September)

A Scotland Exclusive

Drinks e Inclusiv

Classic Scotland Highlights P Train to Oban P Scone Palace P Boat trip P Weaponry display

Drivers day off on Wednesday

Loch Lomond

Oban

Crianlarich Loch Lomond

Inveraray Drymen Glasgow

The Trossachs is an inspiring area of Scotland with its high mountain peaks and home to the Queen of Scottish Lochs – Loch Lomond. Passengers on this holiday will experience many aspects of Scotland, from a scenic rail journey on the West Highland Line to Oban, hear about the myths and legends of the area including a highly charged Highland Weaponry Display. Venture into Perthshire with a visit to the highly acclaimed Scone Palace and Gardens. Staying at the historical Winnock Hotel on a drinks inclusive package*. Day 1: Arrive Winnock Hotel to welcoming tea/coffee and shortbread. Day 2: Loch Lomond & Glengoyne To the spectacularly positioned Lomond Shores overlooking the bonnie banks of the loch. From here cruise out into the loch offering magnificent views northwards. Back on land for some lunch, before passing northern fringe of Glasgow with a guided tour and tasting at Glengoyne Distillery. Day 3: Oban & the West Highland Line A fabulous day awaits. Firstly, along the shoreline of Loch Lomond, before boarding the train at Crianlarich for the spectacular journey to Oban. Being part of the

celebrated West Highland line, this journey is reputed to be one of the most scenic rail journeys in Europe. Time free in Oban, before returning the scenic way via Inveraray and Arrochar “Alps”. Day 4: Perthshire & Scone Palace Take in the views of the Queen Elizabeth National Park to Callander, then Loch Earn & Crieff. Free time in Perth, before taking the short drive to the 5* Visitor attraction - Scone Palace. Once the crowning place of the Kings of Scots. A breathtakingly beautiful place of power and mystery and the rightful home of the celebrated Stone of Destiny. Stroll the gardens and woodlands, which are equally as impressive as the Palace itself.

Drams & Flings at the Winnock

Scone Perth Stirling Edinburgh

Glengoyne

Price Includes P Welcome tea/coffee P 4nts DBB, with nightly entertainment P Wine with dinner each night P £10 voucher for drinks or other hotel items per night* P Full Scottish show P Highland Weaponry Display P Entry into Scone Palace & Gardens P Rail journey to Oban P Guided tour & tasting of whisky distillery P Boat cruise on Loch Lomond P Free overnight coach parking

3* Winnock Hotel Drymen See page 46 Rates & dates attached for both packages

5 days from £164

Highlights P Unlimited drinks* P Whisky tour P Stirling P Edinburgh P Entertainment every night Classic and the Winnock have teamed up to offer a

Price Includes

unique out of season programme, where just about everything is taken care of. Lots of entertainment, £15 of drinks vouchers each day, wine with dinner* and excursions planned: Day 1: Tea on arrival, dinner & weaponry display Day 2: Trossachs & Whisky Tour & tasting, afternoon tea, Scottish night with piper & dancing Day 3: Stirling dinner & games night Available November 2013 - March 2014

Day 4: Edinburgh & National Museum dinner, then music and dance

* Conditions apply to drinks included packages as governed by Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005, and at discretion of the Winnock Hotel. Full terms on enquiry.

P 4nts DBB P Welcome tea P Packed lunch each day P Wine with dinner P 4nts entertainment as described P House brands comp. Bar 7.30-10.30pm P Tour & tasting at Glengoyne Whisky Distillery P Guided tour of National Museum Scotland

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

4 nts from

Budget Scotland

pp DBB extra nts. available

Summertime Specials

£109

Free n Attracrtio ent y

Inspected hotels. 4nts DBB. Min 2 nts entertainment. Welcome tea & biscuits on check in.

Tinto Hotel By Biggar

4 nts from 129pp

Includes entry the new National Museum of Scotland This 3* hotel has the look and feel of a Scottish Country House. It only takes 1 group, so you will be assured of excellent service and good food. Located in its own grounds with open views. 6 miles from Biggar. FULL DAY: Scottish Border Towns of Kelso, Melrose & Dryburgh

Price includes P Welcome tea & biscuits on arrival P 4 nts DBB P 2nts entertainment P 1 is Scottish themed P No Single room supplement

Arrive Mondays x 4nts £129pp

HALF DAY: Edinburgh & National Museum

22/4, 20/5, 10/6, 22/7, 16/9 Other dates available on request

FULL DAY: Ayrshire & Burns Country

More hotel detail on Page 45

Rob Roy Hotel Aberfoyle

4 nts from 109pp

Includes entry & factory tour of Caithness Glass The 2* Rob Roy has had a facelift joining the 2 buildings together. Rooms have been freshened up, so too the public areas. Very well run coaching hotel, with good plain food, happy staff and bags of entertainment. FULL DAY: Loch Lomond & the Trossachs FULL DAY: Perthshire, Pitlochry and Caithness Glass HALF DAY: Stirling

Price includes P Welcome tea & shortbread on checkin P 4 nts DBB P Min. 3 nts entertainment P No Single room supplement

Arrive Sundays x 4nts 28/4, 6/10 £109 £129 26/5, 1/9, 15/9 16/6, 14/7, 28/7 £145 Other dates available on request More hotel detail on Page 47

Royal Dunkeld Hotel Dunkeld

4 nts from 119pp

Includes tour and tasting at Edradour Whisky Distillery A well run historical olde coaching inn, located in the centre of Scotland’s smallest city. 3* characterful hotel, it looks and feels Scottish, with its low ceilings and open fires. Bedrooms on 3 floors with no lift available. Ground floor rooms in the lodge beside the hotel. FULL DAY: Braemar and Royal Deeside FULL DAY: Fort William, Glencoe & Loch Tay HALF DAY: Pitlochry & Edradour Distillery Tour

Price includes P Welcome tea & shortbread on arrival P 4 nts DBB P 2 nights entertainment P Single Suppl. £10 a night

Arrive Mondays x 4nts £129pp 24/6 £124 15/7, 19/8, 16/9 £129 £119 5/10, 14/10 Other dates available on request More hotel detail on Page 48

Balavil Hotel Newtonmore

4 nts from 124pp

Includes guided tour and tasting at Glenfiddich whisky distillery The 3* Balavil has for a long time been a popular hotel for groups. Its location in the heart of the Spey Valley opens up many interesting excursion possibilities. Since the hotels changed back to it’s original owners, the fabric of the hotel has improved, reverting to what used to be an excellent hotel for groups wishing to holiday in the Highlands for a great price.

FULL DAY: Fort William & Glen Spean FULL DAY: Whisky Trail & Glenfiddich Distillery HALF DAY: Inverness & Loch Ness

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Price includes P Welcome tea & shortbread on arrival P 4 nts DBB P 2 nights entertainment P Free use of leisure facilities P Single Suppl. £8 a night

Arrive Mondays x 4nts 29/4, 7/10 £124 £134 20/5 17/6, 15/7, 26/8, 9/9 £149 Other dates available on request More hotel detail on Page 49

Mystery Tours available throughout UK from £26 pp DBB

2 or more nts from:

£48

pppn DBB

4 star Scotland

New for 2013

Luxurious Scotland Classic 4* hotels offering group rates for the more discerning travellers

Airth Castle & Spa Resort, Airth

Hotel Information

P Stirling and the Trossachs PEdinburgh, Botanical Gardens PSt Andrews

Airth Castle Hotel, Airth

Airth is a 14th century castle, once owned by the family of Robert the Bruce. Its passion for excellence has positioned this spa resort hotel as one of the leading hotels in the area. Located in 14 acres of gardens and parkland, the hotel is equal distance between Edinburgh & Glasgow, with easy access into the Highlands and Lowlands. Guests are accommodated in the newly refurbished Country Club. The special rate includes set 3 course dinner plus coffee in the Glasshouse Restaurant.

Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry A majestic building, which can be seen for miles around due to its prominent & unique hilltop location. Staying here, you are guaranteed a room with a view, overlooking the gardens or golf course with a backdrop of a Perthshire mountain vista.The comfort of the hotel is evident with luxurious soft furnishings and creative décor. The Verandah Restaurant has a great reputation for its food and the hotel has created the Lavendar Spa and an interesting museum presenting Atholl’s history.

Landmark Hotel, Dundee The Landmark is set in it’s own stunning grounds, surrounded by the unspoilt landscape of the glens, on the fringe of Dundee, Scotland’s 4th largest city. The hotel has undergone a multi million pound facelift, transforming what was a dowdy hotel into a luxurious property. All bedrooms are individually styled and the contemporary Conservatory Restaurant has won awards for its amazing cuisine. It makes an ideal base to explore this underestimated area of Scotland.

Stonefield Castle, Tarbert (Loch Fyne) Here’s a chance to stay in a Scottish castle, sample excellent food whilst admiring the most beautiful of surroundings. The castle stands proud on the Kintyre peninsula commanding spectacular views of the loch. The castle was transformed in 2009 retaining its unique character with many original period furnishings being retained, complimenting the timeless ambience that is Stonefield Castle. Set in 60 acres of woodland grounds and gardens – a place for guests to enjoy a leisurely pace of life in a wonderful Highland setting.

You can stay for as long as you want. Classic will be delighted to help plan your itinerary free of charge.

More dates available (Also page 47)

Guest Rating 80% Bedrooms 108 Lift Yes Free use of 1st class leisure 1 free place if over 25 pax.

£63 pppn DBB Single Supplement £16

Arr: 9/5, 7/7 29/9 x 4nts

Other dates available on request. Free tea/coffee & shortbread on arrival. (Also page 48)

Guest Rating 84% Bedrooms 95 Plenty ground floor rooms Free use of leisure facilities 1 free place if over 25 pax.

£48 pppn DBB Single Supplement £25

Arr: 5/5, 9/6, 7/7 x 4nts Other dates available on request. Free tea/coffee & shortbread on arrival. (Also page 48)

Hotel Information

PIsland Hopping to Arran, Gigha or Islay PInveraray PMull of Kintyre

Stonefield Castle Hotel, Tarbert

27/5, 10/6. 17/6, 8/7, 22/7, 9/9, 16/9

Hotel Information

PShip Discovery & Glamis Castle PSt Andrews & Fife PPitlochry & Loch Tay

Landmark Hotel, Dundee

£57 pppn DBB Single supplement £25

Hotel Information

PScone Palace PSpey Valley and Dalwhinnie Distillery PRoyal Deeside

Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry

Guest Rating 81% Bedrooms 123 Lift Yes Free use of extensive leisure 1 free place if over 25 pax.

Guest Rating 82% Bedrooms 32 Lift yes 1 free place if over 25 pax.

Low: from £48 High: from £69 pppn DBB Dates available between March & November

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

From: 4 nts

£99 pp

Out of Season Themed Houseparties Below are Classic’s most popular ones. There are plenty more on the attached date and rate sheet.

Highland Houseparty

4 nts £104

PWelcome Drink P2 nts entertainment PAfternoon Tea/Coffee & Shortbread

Ballachulish Hotel

New for 2013

Welcome to the Highlands, where you will be welcomed with Tea/Coffee & Shortbread. On the first evening meet your hosts at a Buck’s fizz reception, before being piped in for dinner. After breakfast each day drive along the lochside and take in the sites of Fort Willaim, Oban, and Inverness before returning to the hotel in time for tea/Coffee & Shortbread with enough time to relax before Dinner, a glass of Wine and entertainment on 2 nts.

Northumberland Houseparty

P Price Includes P 4 nts DBB P Tea/Coffee & Shortbread each afternoon P Bucks fizz reception P Glass of wine each evening P 2 nts Entertainment

3* Isles of Glencoe & Ballachulish Near Fort William See page 49 Rates and dates attached

4 nts £99

PAfternoon Tea/coffee P3 nts entertainment PPorterage Welcome afternoon tea/coffee around the crackling log fire. After a hearty cooked breakfast explore the delights of the area such as Bamburgh and Alnwick Castle, Holy Island, Lindisfarne, Seahouses and more, with tea and coffee on your return. Our Head Chef prepares delicious evening meals followed by 2 nights entertainment and an additional musical night.

Price Includes P 4 nts DBB P Tea/Coffee each afternoon P 2 nts In-house Entertainment P 1 nt Musical Entertainment P Porterage

3* Percy Arms Hotel Otterburn See page 45 Rates and dates attached

Percy Arms Hotel, Otterburn

Welsh Medieval Houseparty

4 nts £149

PMedieval Banquet P3 nts entertainment PTea/coffee & Bara Brith Enjoy a Medieval package at the 13th Century Ruthin Castle. The evening starts with an introduction in the Presence Room where guests assemble. Fully costumed Ladies of the Court, Court Steward and Herald then lead guests into the Banquet Hall where they will be entertain, sing, jest and lead the evening’s feasting with dagger and fingers… accompanied by mead from clay cups and wine in pewter goblets. Enjoy

Price Includes P 4 nts DBB P Tea/Coffee & Bara Brith on Arrival P Medieval Banquet at Ruthin Castle P Porterage on arrival and Departure P 3 nts Entertainment

3* Beaufort Park Mold See page 43 Rates and dates attached

a 4 course meal at the Banquet. 3 other nts DBB with entertainment each night at the hotel.

Drinks Inclusive Houseparty*

4 nts £139

PDrinks Included P3 light/packed lunches PWine with dinner Enjoy a short break in the Scottish Borders packed full of inclusions such as wine with dinner, free bar (7.30pm & 10pm)*, 3 nights entertainment and a packed lunch each day whilst out exploring the local areas such as New Lanark Heritage Village, Loch Lomond, Edinburgh, Ayrshire and the Trossachs. Return to the hotel to enjoy a fabulous evening with your fellow passengers and maybe a tipple or two from the free bar. * Conditions apply to drinks inclusive packages. Full terms on enquiry.

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Price Includes P 4 nts DBB P 3 light/packed lunches P Free bar between 7.30-10pm (selected house brands)* P Glass of wine with dinner each night. P 3 nts Entertainment

3* Abington Hotel Nr Biggar See page 45 Rates and dates attached Also Winnock

Hotel Drymen (p 46) Palace Hotel Inverness (p 50)

Enquire about our other out of season packages

From:

£29

pppn DBB

Out of Season Christmas Markets

New for 2013

A selection of popular Christmas Markets around the UK. Stay 1- 3 nts Midweek or Weekends.

Birmingham Christmas Market

Price Includes

£30 pppn

(26th Nov - 23rd Dec) Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market has become a huge favourite with visitors to the city from all over the UK and Europe. It is now the largest outdoor Christmas Market in the country. Traditional stalls offer the usual array of beautiful handmade toys, Christmas decorations, original jewellery and craft goods. Visitors can enjoy the delights of German

P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Full English breakfasts P Tea/Coffee on arrival P 1nts Entertainment (min 2nt stays) P Porterage

4* Drayton Manor Tamworth See page 43

mulled wine (Gluhwein), grilled sausages, vegetarian options, pretzels, German beer, and for those with a sweet tooth, gingerbread, crepes and marzipan sweets.

Manchester Christmas Market

Price Includes

£30 pppn

(26th Nov – 21st Dec) Manchester’s Christmas Markets really are a sight to

P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Full English breakfasts

behold, transforming much of the City Centre. The main

P Tea/Coffee on arrival P 1 nts Entertainment (min 2nt stays)

hub of the action is Albert Square’s European Markets,

P Porterage

where an entire Alpine village is constructed. With rows

3* Moorside Grange Peak District

and rows of stalls selling everything from continental cheeses to Christmas trees, hot bratwursts, crepes,

See page 44

scarves and hats to hand made chocolates, Albert Square is a great place to pick up a quirky festive gift.

Edinburgh Christmas Market

Price Includes

£29 pppn

(26th Nov – 5th Jan) Experience Edinburgh’s fabulous Christmas celebrations this winter. Glittering lights, Dancing fountains and the famous German Christmas Market combine to create a festive atmosphere like no other. set beneath the spectacular backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the Market brings together everything from hand-blown baubles to colourful wooden toys. Make sure to sample the market’s delicious food and Gluhwein – mulled wine served in ceramic mugs.

Bristol Christmas Market

P 1 free place for your driver over 20 paying pax. P Free overnight coach parking

3* Kings Manor Edinburgh £47 3* Richmond Park Bo’ness £29 See page 47

Price Includes

£29.50 pppn

(10th Nov – 22nd Dec)

Set in a yuletide backdrop of the city centre shopping area, Bristol’s Christmas Market a high quality traditional German theme with a locally inspired market housed in quaint wooden chalet style stalls. Visitors can enjoy unique gift ideas, original handcrafts, decorative items, deliciously festive food and drink – all alongside a selection of the best locally sourced produce.

See attached for Turkey and Tinsel Breaks

P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Full Scottish breakfasts

P Choice 3 course dinners plus coffee P Full English breakfasts P Tea/Coffee on arrival P Porterage

3 * Marsh Farm Hotel Wootton Bassett

See page 43

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

23 Dec x 4 nights from:

£179

24 Dec x 3 nights from £159 pp

Festive Christmas Crackers Highlights P Entertainment most nts P Traditional Xmas day lunch P Carol Singers

30th Dec x 3 nights from:

£205

Festive Happy New Years Highlights P New Years Eve Gala dinner P Dancing P Tea Dance

Come and celebrate Christmas at one of Classic Britain’s

Bring in the Bells with a New Year celebration at one of

hotels, where we offer wide and varied programmes,

Classic’s hotels. We only feature hotels laying on a good

packed with entertainment , serving plenty of good

traditional programme with plenty of entertainment and

traditional fayre in the true Festive spirit, including a visit

good food. There are hotels up and down the land from

from Santa!

the Highlands and into England and Wales.

Price Includes P 4 nts DBB P Evening entertainment P Afternoon Tea & Cake P Christmas Day Lunch, P Christmas Eve & Boxing Day lunch P Full Cooked Breakfasts P Porterage P Free place for your driver if over 25 paying pax Inclusions may vary slightly with each hotel

Arrive 23 Dec x 4nts Windsor Hotel Nairn - £179 Astor Hotel Plymouth - £255 Percy Arms Otterburn - £260 Caledonian Oban - £242 Crown & Mitre Carlisle - £250 Bank House Worcester - £290 Crowwood Glasgow - £190 Swallow Preston £225 Queens Hotel Perth - £239 See attached for extra hotels. Per person prices.

* Sample Itinerary *

Crown & Mitre Hotel Carlisle 23rd December Welcoming tea/coffee & biscuits whilst the porters take care of your luggage. Enjoy Christmas Carols in the lounge sung by a local Choir. 3 course evening meal followed entertainment. Christmas Eve Wake up to a hearty breakfast before exploring the local area. 2 course lunch, followed later in the afternoon with Tea & Cake. 3 course dinner followed by entertainment. Mulled wine and Mince Pies will be served on your return from Midnight service. Christmas Day Merry Christmas! English Breakfast before opening your presents. Our 4 course Christmas Day Lunch is served with crackers and party hats. Afternoon tea & Cake in the lounge whilst watching the Queens speech. Followed by a 2 course hot & cold buffet followed by Entertainment. Boxing Day Leisurely full breakfast before making use of our leisure facilities or heading out on a crisp walk around Carlisle. Return for a light soup & sandwich lunch. Time to put your feet up and relax in the lounge with afternoon, tea & cakes. Dinner, is followed by entertainment with your new found friends. 27th December Enjoy a farewell breakfast before heading home.

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Price Includes P 3 nts DBB P Quiz night P Hogmanay Gala Dinner with piper & dancing P Welcome Drinks Reception, P Afternoon Tea Dance P Hot Scottish Breakfasts P Porterage P Free place for your driver if over 25 paying pax. Inclusions may vary slightly with each hotel

Arrive 30 Dec x 3nts Balavil Newtonmore - £225 Ballachullish Nr Ft William £231 Beaufort Park Mold - £221 Caledonian Oban - £242 Watermill Paisley - £210 Shapwells Shap - £235 Gretna Hall Gretna - £269 Craws Nest Anstuther - £250 Golden Lion Stirling - £250 See attached for extra hotels.

* Sample Itinerary *

Doubletree by Hilton Aberdeen 30th December Our management and staff serve a welcome drinks reception on arrival at the hotel. Sourcing the best of Scottish produce we serve a 3 course evening meal followed by a fun night of Quiz’s. New Years Eve or “Hogmanay” Indulge in a full Scottish Breakfast before choosing to hit the sales, head out for a walk along the beach, or go for a tour of the area. Classic will be delighted to advise. Afternoon tea will be served in the Atrium Bar with live music. Meet your fellow guests for a pre dinner drinks reception. Traditional Hogmanay Dinner will be served in the restaurant with Scottish Pipes and dancing in to the wee small hours! New Years Day Happy New Year! Enjoy a hearty cooked breakfast before joining your coach for a day trip. On return come along to our afternoon Tea Dance. After dinner tonight relax watching some good movies or there are some parlour games available. 2nd January A scrumptious Scottish Breakfast will be served before we bid you a fond farewell and “Haste ye back!”

Per person prices.

Programmes available for all Festive hotels

Southern England, Midlands & Wales Bournemouth Elstead Hotel

Carmarthen Ivy Bush Royal Hotel

Gwbert Cliff Hotel & Spa

3 7

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 50

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 70

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 72

This highly rated central Bournemouth hotel is located in a quiet tree-lined avenue, just a short stroll from the beach. All the bedrooms are of a high standard and well equipped. The attractive and spacious restaurant has an excellent reputation for traditional, home-cooked food. Hotel has leisure.

Located in the centre of Wales’ oldest town. The hotel was refurbished in 2006/7 so everything is relatively new. Popular for groups as it is well located for scenic Pembroke South West coast, and near to Tenby. Service is excellent in all departments and reflected in the high review rating.

The views over the cliff tops and Cardigan Bay are breathtaking. Its little wonder the Cliff has been a favourite group destination. Most rooms upgraded in 2008/9. Many with sea views. Welsh Houseparties a speciality. Lots to see in the area as well. Set in 30 acres of headland. The Cliff has a most magnificent Health Spa.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £30 High £45

Low £38 High £45

Low £30 High £44

Hastings Chatsworth Hotel

Honiley Honiley Court Hotel

Llanelli Diplomat Hotel

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 52

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 62

An excellently priced 3 star hotel, located on the seafront in the centre of Hastings. Recently awarded a rosette for its food. From Hastings there is so much to see from gardens to resorts to history and heritage. An ideal base for groups looking for a hotel for under £38 a night.

Situated in the peaceful Warwickshire village of Honiley. The hotel dates back to the 17th century and the Boot Inn Pub is still retained. The remainder of the hotel is more modern. It is a popular hotel for groups wishing to visit the Cotswolds. The hotel also provides 2 drinks for price of 1.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £25 High £38

Prices pppn DBB from Low £30 High £42

Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Becoming an increasingly popular hotel for groups, with some good all round reviews. The hotel is well appointed and staff are well trained and courteous. It is positioned in a slightly elevated location with open views across the area. The hotel dates back to 1810, but has been transformed into a modern hotel with leisure facilities here. There is entertainment most Fridays.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £? High £?

Newbury Chequers Hotel

Plymouth Astor Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 106

Guest Review 81% Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 56

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 62

A very coach orientated hotel. From the moment your coach arrives your passengers will be well looked after. Entertainment on some nights, welcoming arrival, good food and consistent level of quality in all bedrooms. The Beaufort has long been a favourite hotel for Classic.

The Chequers is a traditional, 18th century coaching inn providing excellent hotel accommodation. The hotel is located in the heart of the Thames Valley, only five minutes from junction 13 of the M4, This Berkshire hotel has 56 well-appointed en-suite bedrooms and a restaurant offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere serving the finest modern and European cuisine.

Situated right next to Plymouth’s Hoe, next to the seafront, and only a short walk to the city centre and Barbican. The Astor is over 200 years old, retaining many of its original features. It was lovingly restored and updated in 2006 to a fine 3* hotel’s welcoming groups from all over the world.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £28 High £40

Low £35 High £40

Low £40 High £48

Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Tamworth Drayton Manor

Telford Buckatree Hall Hotel

Wootten Bassett Marsh Farm

Opened in August 2011 offering groups high quality 4 star accommodation, service and facilities at exceptionally attractive rates. The hotel is set in 280 acres of parkland with Drayton Manor Theme Park close by. The atmosphere within the hotel is very relaxing, surrounded by luxurious fittings together with some rather funny & quirky features to bring out the inner child in you!

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 62 A beautiful tranquil & secluded setting at the foot of the famous Wrekin, 4 miles from Telford, the Buckatree has been transformed into a good 3 star hotel, with new bedrooms and public areas refurbished in 2010/11. Very suited to groups as rooms have countryside views, many of the hotels lake, the food is good and staff friendly and helpful.

Guest Review 91% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 50 This country house hotel nestles in 2 acres of landscaped gardens and surrounded by open countryside. It is a grade II listed house and forms the nucleus for this beautiful setting. Combining country house charm with modern facilities with a relaxed atmosphere. The experienced team ensures all groups will be professionally dealt with from start to finish.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £35 High £45

Prices pppn DBB from Low £35 High £40

Prices pppn DBB from Low £40 High £48

Guest Review 95% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 150

Great reviews about the food

Town or city centre location

Fine views from hotel

Free use of Leisure facilities

David Bloomfield about the Astor Hotel: “This is a really friendly home from home hotel and I would never stay anywhere else if i go back to Plymouth.” Guest Review 87% Steps into hotel: 5 Bedrooms: 50

Mold Beaufort Park Hotel

10 11 5 12 2 6 8

Margaret Bingham about the Beaufort Park Hotel: “Hotel very good, food good, staff very friendly, will definitely stay again” A guest about the Chatsworth Hotel: “Very friendly. Helpful. Excellent food. Comfortable room. Would recommend it to our friends” Tara Squibb about the Cliff Hotel & Spa: “We had a 3 night stay at the Cliff top hotel and we had a lovely time. Lovely rooms in upgraded area over spa. The staff, were very helpful, the spa was superb and the food was beautiful.” A guest about the Diplomat Hotel: “Wonderful staff, helpful, friendly, really keen to help, room was very clean and comfortable.” Sandra Devitt about the Elstead Hotel: “The staff were very helpful and accommodating. The room was lovely, with a great view. We especially liked the card electrical security.” A guest about Drayton Manor Hotel: “The staff were friendly and efficient, the food varied from good to excellent. Our room was wonderful with all the mod cons. that you would expect of a new hotel. All-in-all we were impressed. “

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

Peaks, Pennines and Northern England 5 6

2 9

Chester Mollington Banastre Hotel

Darlington St George Hotel

Disley Moorside Grange Hotel

4 7

8 1

Cynthia Coulthard about the Mollington Banastre Hotel: “We spent two nights at this hotel and could not fault it. Efficient staff, comfortable lounge, dining room and lovely leisure facilities.” Michael Wilson about the Holiday Inn, Leeds: “The hotel staff where very friendly and helpful, our room was clean we had no problems at all. The food was very good both breakfast and dinner we have stayed at this hotel before and would stay again.” A Guest about the Shap Wells Hotel: “I couldn’t recommend this lovely hotel enough. The food and service, was first class. Very friendly and helpful staff. Cleanliness very good.” Catherine Monaghan about the Yorkshire Hotel: “My party of 12 had a great weekend at the Yorkshire. The food was excellent and the table staff very friendly and helpful.” A guest about the Moorside Grange Hotel: “Lovely hotel set in a lovely area. Staff all very friendly and service good.” Gregor McLellan about the Raven Hall Hotel: “Location wonderful, service first class, staff very polite and helpful, food excellent, hotel itself was very clean.” George Rutherford about the Swallow Hotel: “Excellent value break. Friendly staff, which we feel is very important. Proximity to the M6 makes this an ideal stop.”

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 68

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 59

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 98

Located just outside Chester, Mollington is an excellent group hotel, offering a 2 for 1 bar facility all year round. Set in picturesque grounds which provides peace and relaxation for guests surrounded by the comfort of this 4* hotel. Restaurant looks out over the gardens. Hotel also has leisure.

A popular hotel for groups either going or returning from Scotland, or staying for a few nights to explore N.E. England. It is one of the best hotels in the area for groups. Although it is near to Teeside Airport, it is peaceful as there are no overnight flights. All areas in the hotel are modern and bedrooms are furnished pretty much the same.

Beautifully positioned in an area of outstanding beauty within the Peak District National Park. All bedrooms have countryside views. This hotel is very much geared for dealing with groups. Nice restaurant and bar, bedrooms are in good shape and spacious. Reviews are very favourable about the staff.

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Harrogate Yorkshire Hotel

Hexham Derwent Manor Hotel

Hexham Slaley Hall

Guest Review 78% Steps into hotel: 4 Bedrooms: 80

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 48

Guest Review 92% Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 180

A grand Victorian building located in the centre of this popular spa town. The hotel was completely refurbished a few years ago. The interior is fresh and contemporary, retaining it’s original elegance as well as offering groups all the modern amenities. The Yorkshire has it all - location, quality and good group rates.

Located in 20 acres of Northumberland countryside overlooking the Derwent Valley. Old world charm prevails with beamed ceilings and stone walls giving a Country House feeling. Elegant décor and comfortable accommodation have made Derwent Manor a popular choice for groups. The hotel has good leisure as well.

1000 acres of Northumberland moorland and forest play home to this magnificent, elegant Edwardian mansion. Bask in the warmth of the reception you receive on arrival, dining for groups is in Hadrian’s Brasserie. All bedrooms, bar 7, are in the New Hall are elegant and comfortable. This is an ideal hotel for groups looking for some affordable luxury.

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Leeds (Garforth) Holiday Inn

Preston Swallow Hotel

Ravenscar Raven Hall Hotel

Guest Review 86% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 144 Situated in a peaceful location with easy access to the motorway networks, this 3* Holiday Inn is only 6 miles from Leeds city centre. It makes a perfect base for touring the Yorkshire Dales & Wolds and is near to Harrogate and York, Being a Holiday Inn, all the rooms are the same with all the mod cons, and the hotel has the added benefit of leisure.

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 5 Bedrooms: 78 An excellently priced group hotel. 7 miles from Preston with easy access to the M6, the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District. Set in open countryside near the Ribble Valley. All bedrooms are spacious and furnished to the same 3* standard. Hotel has the benefit of full leisure.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £33 High £38

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 52 Perched high on the cliff top looking out on to Robin Hoods Bay, half way between Scarborough and Whitby. A cracking 3 star hotel with lovely gardens and breathtaking views. Food is 1st class in the Panoramic Restaurant. Ideal for touring East Yorkshire & its coast.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £26 High £35

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Scarborough Royal Hotel

Shap Shap Wells Hotel

Widnes Everglades Hotel

Guest Review 80% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 118 The Royal is the main hotel in the town for groups. Located in the South Bay with views over the bay. Lift to the beach is opposite the hotel, and the town centre and spa are only a short stroll away. The Royal has been a popular hotel for Classic’s groups for a number of years. It is very grand inside and many rooms have open sea views.

Guest Review 81% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 98 A popular hotel for groups, benefiting with entertainment on most nights of the week. Located 5 minutes from J39, M6. The hotel is in a good location for centred stays with the Lakes, Borders and Dales nearby. The hotel is set in own grounds next to the river affording open views from most bedrooms.

Guest Review 83% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 65 Situated in a semi rural location less than 10 minutes from the M62 and M65 Motorways, the Everglades is in an ideal spot for the North Wests leisure attractions. All 65 bedrooms are furnished to a high 3* standard with satellite TV and trouser press. There is a comfortable lounge, bar and Key Restaurant offers coaches an extensive TDH menus.

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E: groups@classicbritain.com

Free on site coach parking

Lift in hotel, or ground floor rooms

Disabled assisted rooms available on request

Entertainment provided on certain nights at no extra cost

The Borders & Southern Scotland Abington Abington Hotel

Belford Bluebell Hotel

Biggar Tinto Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 27

7 8

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 28

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 36

Located 5 minutes from M74 J13, the hotel is situated in the village. It is a popular hotel for overnights too and from the Highlands. Abington ia family owned & managed and it is a particularly welcoming and friendly place to stay. Rooms as good, food is better and there is lots to see around & about. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Located in the heart of Northumberland, the Bluebell is in an ideal location for exploring the many sites the area has to offer. Privately owned and managed, it has an enviable reputation of being a personable hotel, a relaxing place to stay with good food and recently refurbished bedrooms.

Located in the beautiful Scottish Borders at the foot of the Tinto Hill. Being one of Classic’s smaller hotels, the personal welcome and friendly service is assured as the hotel can only take one group. The Tinto is what could be described as a Traditional Scottish Countryside hotel. Warm, cosy, informal & great value.

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Carlisle Crown & Mitre Hotel

Dumfries Cairndale Hotel

Gretna Gretna Hall Hotel

Guest Review 84% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 94 The Crown and Mitre Hotel in Carlisle offers the perfect mix of Edwardian grandeur. The hotel was built in 1905 on the site of the original Crown and Mitre dating back to before the Jacobite Rebellion. The Hotel has beautiful original features including a real log fire and elegant sweeping staircase plus all the modern comforts of home to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel has leisure.

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 6 Bedrooms: 90

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 4 Bedrooms: 100

Without doubt the Cairndale is one of the best known and popular hotels in SW Scotland with Group Organisers. It has a great location and the hotel really knows how to look after groups. On Sunday night the hotel has a ceilidh show which is free to guests. A good way to start or finish your tour to Scotland.

Set in its own grounds, Gretna Hall is a perfect spot for your overnighters or to stay a little longer and explore the Borders and Lake District areas. The hotel caters predominantly with groups and entertainment is on most nights. All Classic groups are accommodated in the newer rooms. Gretna Hall is undergoing a lot of upgrading. All public areas are new (2010), with work starting on the bedrooms.

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Irvine Menzies Hotel

Kilmarnock Park Hotel

New Lanark New Lanark Mill

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 4 Bedrooms: 127 The Menzies was recently refurbished creating a new contemporary feel throughout the hotel. There are spacious & modern bedrooms, a contemporary Brasserie restaurant serving mouthwatering dishes to suit all tastes, a stylish cocktail bar and a delightful lounge. The hotel is located on the edge of town, surrounded by its own golf course.

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 50

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: ?

A modern state of the art hotel, receiving excellent reviews for quality in all departments. Great value rates for groups throughout the year, with easy access to Glasgow, Edinburgh and further a field. Popular hotel for overnighters and short breaks.

A chance to stay in one of the regions best character hotels beautifully located in the World Heritage Village & next to the River Clyde. Converted to a hotel from an 18th century Woollen mill in 2001. Rooms are bright and spacious and there is a roof garden from which you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

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Otterburn Percy Arms

Peebles Barony Castle Hotel

Wetheral (by Carlisle) Crown Hotel

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 27

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 78

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 51

Very much a family owned and managed 17th century coaching inn, located on the edge of the Northumbrian National Park surrounded by hills, moorlands and near to Kielder Forest & reservoir. Well priced for groups, with good standard of rooms and food. Excellent location for overnighters too. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Not many castles take groups but Barony does. Located just south of Edinburgh, the hotel is definitely affordable for the group market. It is set in 25 acres of gardens, with cosy bedrooms, beautiful food in the “Dug”, and modern leisure facilities. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

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Great reviews about the food

Town or city centre location

Fine views from hotel

Five miles east of Carlisle in the centre of this conservation village. The hotel is quite old and full of character, and is highly rated by Classic guests. Excellent food served in the garden conservatory restaurant coupled with good service & quality accommodation puts it top of the list of group hotels in Cumbria.

Free use of Leisure facilities

9 1 5

11 2

3 6 12 4

A guest about the Abington Hotel: “This is a good example of a local, independent hotel with helpful, attentive and knowledgeable staff.” Sandra Braidwood about the Menzies Hotel: “Standard double bedroom had two double beds, good quality furnishings, excellent en suite facilities and plenty of room.” Shona Wilcock about New Lanark Mill: “Enjoyed our get together. Loved the leisure facilities, the setting and how the mill building was converted to a hotel. We would all definitely go back again” Mr Noble about the Park Hotel: “Fab hotel, can not ask for more. Rooms clean and luxury, meals great two. I go to this hotel on business every 5/6weeks and would not go anywhere else.” A Guest about the Crown & Mitre: “The hotel carries its age well, it is not pretentious and the decor is pleasing. The rooms had great en-suite facilities with a comprehensive TV service. While not cordon bleu, the food was good.” A past guest of the Tinto Hotel writes: “This hotel has a happy atmosphere - the staff were genuinely friendly, there were many traditional features which gave real character, the breakfast was very good.” A past guest of tBarony Castle writes: “Dinner was excellent. Prawn cocktail, then Pork Loin followed by a Cheese platter! Breakfast was also great!”

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

Glasgow & Area 2 10

Drymen Winnock Hotel

Dullatur Westerwood Hotel

3 6 7 5 8 9 4 12 11

A guest about the Alexander Thomson Hotel: “Rooms were spacious clean and the breakfast was nice, check out was rather early staff were happy and helpfull will visit again” A guest about the Bruce Hotel: “Staff seemed quite willing to be helpful, and cleaning people were excellent. Restaurant offers a great range of food.” A guest about the Crowwood Hotel: “Have stayed before and have to say under the new ownership the hotel has improved even more. The new refurbished bedrooms are amazing.” A guest about Gleddoch House Hotel: “No one who stayed in the hotel had any problems. The facilities are really good. The leisure facilities are great nice pool and gym. The staff could not do any more to help. The rooms are really big and comfy.” A guest about Marks Hotel: “Excellent location, lovely room (at front of hotel) very clean, even very fussy wife was impressed. Very friendly staff and nice bar.” Sheila Watson about the Park Hotel: “First stay at this hotel, will certainly consider them for further short breaks. Service could not have been better and nothing was too much trouble.” Mary McLean about the Swallow Hotel: “Hotel decor is dated. Staff are great, very helpful and pleasant.”

Drymen Buchanan Arms Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 56

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 148

Guest Review 82% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 148

A fine example of a Scottish hotel. It looks and feels Scottish through and through, located in the conservation village of Drymen. Extensive leisure and the hotel has undergone a lot of refurbishing in the public areas and bathrooms. An excellent hotel for a Scottish holiday with lots to explore in the area. Just 40 minutes drive north of Glasgow.

One of the oldest hotels in Scotland dating back to the 1700’s. The Winnock is a well known hotel with groups. Lots of packages available from “All Inclusives” to themed breaks, all very reasonably priced. The hotel is full of charm & character with open log fires and cosy neuks, and entertainment is laid on most nights of the week. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

After a £14m refit, the hotel has re-established itself as one of the leading hotels in the area. Very spacious interior with luxury soft furnishings very much in evidence. The hotel has its own 18 hole golf course and extensive leisure. Located ½ way between Glasgow & Stirling. Hotel has a wonderful setting with open views.

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East Kilbride Bruce Hotel

Glasgow Alexander Thomson Hotel

Glasgow (Erskine) Erskine Bridge Hotel

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 65

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 85

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 177

In Classic’s opinion an under rated hotel, and one to be seriously considered if staying in the Glasgow area. Well managed and organised, consistently good reviews and the fact the hotel has had huge investment must make it one of the best value hotels on the south side of Glasgow. Located next to Scotland’s largest shopping mall.

If you’re wanting a low priced hotel right in the centre of the city, then you will not be disappointed with this hotel. Totally refurbished and reopened in Nov 09. Lower end 3 star is clean, fresh with further development planned with the 2nd phase coming on stream in 2011. One of the best value hotels in the city.

A hotel very much geared up for the group market. All bedrooms are very similar, having just been up graded and each room has an open view of the river. Set in own grounds 14 miles east of Glasgow, with easy access to Loch Lomond & the Highlands. It’s a great value hotel. Normandy Hotel – Erskine’s sister hotel in Renfrew, 7 miles from Glasgow city centre.

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Glasgow Marks Hotel

Glasgow North Crowwood Hotel

Glasgow (Renfrew) Glynhill Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 4 Bedrooms: 103 Probably Glasgow’s most modern hotel, impressive from the outside. Once inside the rooms are bright and spacious and the city views from the top floors are spectacular. The hotel is right in the heart of the city with Sauchiehall Street, Theatreland and Merchant City all within easy walking distance.

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel:0 Bedrooms: 38 The Crowwood has been transformed and totally refurbished. Located 9 miles from Glasgow just off the main road to Stirling. Ideal hotel for a stopover or short break. Restaurant, bar and many of the bedrooms look out over the golf course. A friendly and personal hotel, which takes a maximum 1 group.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £39 High £48

Guest Review 90% Steps into hotel: 5 Bedrooms: 145 An extremely well appointed and elegant hotel, 7 miles from the city centre, on the west side of Glasgow. Since 2009 the hotel has refurbished the majority of their bedrooms, providing guests with a 4* experience. There is a luxurious leisure club offering guests a unique experience. An ideal hotel for overnighters and for Tattoo breaks.

Prices pp DBB from Low £34 High £45

Langbank Gleddoch House

Larkhall Shawlands Park

Paisley Watermill Hotel

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel:0 Bedrooms: 75 A place to get away from the hustle & bustle and enjoy this 1st class hotel set on a hillside overlooking the Firth. The hotel has its own golf course. Inside you will find a characterful hotel with cosy bar, panoramic restaurant and free use of the leisure club. Bedrooms are good too.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £40 High £49.50

Guest Review ? Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 49 Opened in 2008, after a major revamp and extension. All areas are relatively new. Tucked away in the countryside on the edge of the Clyde Valley and only a couple of minutes from J8 M74. Easy access for both Glasgow (18miles) and Edinburgh (35 miles) or for an overnight stopover. Group prices very favourable especially at weekends.

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 49 A former 17th century mill, is part of the very fabric of the historical town of Paisley. Hotel positioned next to the river and only a short walk into the centre of town. Inside you will see many original features are still in evidence including the waterwheel. Ideally located 7 miles west of Glasgow.

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E: groups@classicbritain.com

Free on site coach parking

Lift in hotel, or ground floor rooms

Disabled assisted rooms available on request

Entertainment provided on certain nights at no extra cost

Edinburgh, Fife & Central Scotland Aberfoyle Rob Roy Hotel

Airth Airth Castle Hotel

Bathgate Cairn Hotel

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 103

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 123

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 61

Located in idyllic Trossachs countryside, on the edge of Aberfoyle, and within Queen Elizabeth National Park. The Rob Roy is a good venue for well priced holidays with plenty going on in the evenings. The hotel is split into 2 sections, with a covered walkway between the 2 buildings, and all the bedrooms are relatively new. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Airth is a 14th century Castle, once owned by the family of Robert the Bruce, and sits majestically overlooking the River Forth and Central Scotland. The hotel exudes comfort in a tranquil setting. Most bedrooms are in the Country Club section of the hotel. Food is excellent, served in the Glasshouse Restaurant. Altogether a wonderful place to include in your itinerary.

A well presented hotel, with bright & spacious public areas as well as good quality rooms, all being of similar design & standard. The Cairn is popular with groups, only a 20 minute drive to Edinburgh. Group rates are a lot less than Edinburgh hotels, so if you only need be near Edinburgh then the Cairn is an ideal place to stay.

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Bo’ness Richmond Park Hotel

Dunfermline Pitbauchlie House Hotel

Dunblane Dunblane Hydro

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 5 Bedrooms: 46

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel:0 Bedrooms: 50

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 20 Bedrooms: 200

A perfect hotel if you’re wanting a comfortable hotel in scenic surroundings, but not too far away from Edinburgh. The hotel is only 14 miles from Scotland’s capital, and rates are around 25% cheaper. Richmond Park is a coach friendly hotel, and ideally located for exploring many of Scotland’s main “treasures”.

Set in its own well kept gardens, and only a 5 minute stroll from the centre of town, the Pitbauchlie has earned an enviable reputation for providing excellent value for groups. The food is 1st class and rooms are modern and up to date. It is a stones throw away from the Forth Bridges and only ½ hour from Edinburgh city centre.

Without doubt one of the grandest hotels in central Scotland, so much more so since the completion of a multi million pound investment in 2009, with every area of the hotel transformed. Set in a prominent location overlooking Dunblane and open countryside, many rooms have views. Extensive area and grounds. It certainly has the “wow” factor.

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Edinburgh Braid Hills Hotel

Edinburgh Kings Manor Hotel

Kinross Windlestrae Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 67 A good choice of hotel if looking for a hotel which is near to the city centre sights & attractions, but is not noisy or too city centreish. Braid Hills is set in it’s own grounds with magnificent views of the city and castle – approx 1 ½ miles away. The hotel itself is 1st class in all departments, recommended for its fine food.

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel:0 Bedrooms: 95

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 45

Located in the eastern side of the city, the Kings Manor has always been a popular hotel for groups. Ease of access, only 10 minutes from the centre and on site parking are just some of the reasons for the hotel’s popularity. With its top score review rating, the hotel excels in all departments, and prices are very good for Edinburgh.

Set in its own gardens and only a short walk into the centre of Kinross. The Windlestrae has recently been refurbished, with new bar, restaurant and bedrooms all being transformed to a good and consistent 3* quality. A good venue for accessing both Edinburgh & Fife, Perthshire and beyond. Green Hotel is a higher grade hotel across the road from its sister hotel.

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North Queensferry Queensferry Hotel

Stirling Golden Lion Hotel

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 77 In an enviable location on the northern side of Firth of Forth, less than 30 minutes into Edinburgh city and with great views of both the road and rail bridges. Major refurbishment completed in 2006/7, so most areas of the hotel are relatively new. A good hotel for groups looking to take in Edinburgh without paying Edinburgh prices.

Stirling King Robert Hotel

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 9 Bedrooms: 67 The hotel dates back to 1786 & is one of the focal points of historic Stirling. Located in the heart of the city and just down the hill from the famous Castle. A lot of work has been recently completed including a major refurbishment of all bedrooms. Public areas are in good order having that traditional feel you would expect of a historical hotel.

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 52 Located on the outskirts of Stirling, next to the 1314 Battle of Bannockburn site. The hotel has easy access links to all parts of Scotland. The hotel is well known for its friendly staff and home from home atmosphere. Evening entertainment is a main feature for staying in the King Robert. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

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Great reviews about the food

Town or city centre location

Fine views from hotel

Free use of Leisure facilities

6 11 12 4 2 3

9 5 10 8 7

A guest about Braid Hills Hotel: “The accommodations were very spacious for UK standards and the hotel had considerable charm and character. The grounds are beautiful and it was a great place to stay.” Margaret Duthie about the Cairn Hotel: “The lady at reception was very helpful. Room was very comfortable and the food was excellent , had a nice stay.” Iain Turner about the Craws Nest: “Had a wonderful stay at the Craws Nest. The young dining room staff were very efficient & helpful. The rooms were spotless. Couldn’t fault it at all.” Mr G Laing about the Kings Manor Hotel: “Our stay at the King’s Manor Hotel was excellent, this was our third year at the hotel, always very enjoyable, food first class, rooms excellent and staff very friendly. Highly recommend this hotel.” John Moxey about the Pitbauchlie House Hotel: “We were most impressed with this hotel, the food was excellent, the staff helpful and friendly. I would recommend it to anyone.” A guest about the Richmond Park Hotel: “Stayed at The Richmond Park Hotel AGAIN this year. It is a fantastic little hotel. It is very clean and very comfortable. Great value for money.”

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

Perthshire, Deeside & North East Scotland 7 8 12 11 10 6 9

1 3

Anstruther Craws Nest

Ballater Deeside Inn

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 50

Guest Review 81% Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 54

This is one of a few hotels in Royal Deeside large enough to take groups. Very much a group orientated hotel. Bedrooms all freshened up in 2009 and in good order, so too the public areas. Bar and dining room particularly nice. Entertainment is included on some nights. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

A gem of a hotel, located in one of the old fishing villages on the east coast of Scotland. Very little has changed in the area for decades, so there is a lot of unspoilt scenery and culture to explore. The hotel is one of the best known in the area, and caters well for groups and royalty, when Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip popped in for lunch!

Formerly known as the Loriston Hotel, the renamed Deeside Inn reopened in April 2011 resulting in a complete transformation akin to a high quality traditional inn. Throughout the period features are retained including wooden panelling, wooden beamed ceilings and Queen Victoria’s famous wooden toilet.

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5 2

C. White about the New Fishers Hotel: “We were made to feel very welcome by the staff. The hotel has certainly been upgraded since last year in terms of food and service.”

Evelyn Thomson about the Atholl Palace: “This is our third stay at the hotel each time has been excellent but this time seemed even better.”

Christine McGregor about the Windsor Hotel: “We were comfortable and cosy in our good sized bedroom. The food was good and the staff courteous and helpful.”

A guest about the Royal Dunkeld Hotel: “I recently spent 5 nights staying in the Royal Dunkeld Hotel. I found the staff professional and discreet. .A nice hotel in beautiful surroundings.”

Dorothy Slattery about the Deeside Inn: “Friendly, helpful staff. Refurbished dining room and lounge, tastefully decorated. Very warm, with open fires”.

J Conroy about the Queens Hotel: “The hotel was in a good location. The leisure centre was very good. Food and service was excellent. We would recommend this hotel to friends.”

Aboyne Huntly Arms Hotel

Blairgowrie Angus Hotel

Dundee Landmark Hotel

Dunkeld Royal Dunkeld Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 89 Very popular group orientated hotel offering many packages throughout the year. Hotel has undergone a lot of refurbishment in recent times, mainly in the bedrooms, and entertainment is a main feature of the hotel. The Angus is centrally located in this charming market town and next to the river. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 95 The Landmark is Dundee’s newest and most exciting hotel. The multi million pound refurbishement in 2009 has transformed the hotel and now offers a high degree of luxury for groups. Located on the outskirts of the city & set in its own grounds with open views of surrounding countryside. 1 hour from Edinburgh and 20 minutes from Perth.

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 35 A 250 year old coaching in – full of charm and character. Due to its age there is no lift, however, staff are available to give a helping hand as the hotel bedrooms are on 3 levels. However the ambience of the hotel, its great location and friendly welcome make it a popular hotel for groups. Probably one of the best priced 3* hotels for groups in Perthshire. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

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Elgin Eight Acres Hotel

Inverurie Thainstone House Hotel

Perth Queens Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 53

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 48

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 51

This modern hotel on the outskirts of Elgin, has over recent years been transformed into one of the better 3 star hotels in the area catering for the group market. Lots of single rooms available without supplement. Hotel has extensive leisure and is set in its own grounds. Good access for touring the North East.

Relax in luxury in this Palladian Mansion, set in glorious Aberdeenshire countryside. Designed to provide a superb level of service & provide guests with a combination of restful décor, with many elegant furnishings and excellent facilities. A fine Country residence set in 44 acres of gardens & only 12 miles from Aberdeen.

Located in a quiet but central area, with all local amenities and shops close by. The Queens is without doubt one of the top hotels in Perth, recently receiving a coveted gold award for green tourism. A professionally run hotel with emphasis on supreme comfort and guest care. Lovat Hotel – Sister hotel to the Queens. 3*, 30 bedrooms, less than 1 mile from city centre.

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Pitlochry Atholl Palace Hotel

Pitlochry New Fishers Hotel

Pitlochry Scotlands Hotel

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 5 Bedrooms: 108

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 92

Guest Review 71% Steps into hotel: 6 Bedrooms: 68

A long sweeping drive leads you up to a most majestic hotel, sitting proud above the town with open views of glorious Perthshire countryside from all bedrooms. Inside there is a sense of grandeur and space. Although a little more expensive than other hotels in the area, the difference is immense.

The hotel has improved a lot in the last couple of years with all bedrooms refurbished and all public areas are transformed. Although the hotel itself is more than 100 years old. The Fishers has a central location. All the shops and attractions are near to the hotel. A very group orientated hotel offering Classic the lowest rates in Pitlochry

Right in the middle of this charming Victorian town. The Scotlands looks and feels very Scottish & very much in keeping with the area. 59 rooms are in the main building, but other upgraded rooms are available in 2 other buildings next to the hotel. A popular hotel for the group market, with well priced out of season packages available.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £45 High £63

Low £28 High £45

Low £36 High £50

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Free on site coach parking

Lift in hotel, or ground floor rooms

Disabled assisted rooms available on request

Entertainment provided on certain nights at no extra cost

Western Highlands & Spey Valley Ballachulish Ballachulish Hotel

Carrbridge Carrbridge Hotel

Fort William West End Hotel

2 5 8

7 9

3 Guest Review 80% Steps into hotel: 5 Bedrooms: 54 Ballachulish has long been a popular hotel for groups. It looks and feels very Scottish, and the views from the front of the hotel can only be described as breathtaking, especially at sunset. There is a mixture of traditional and modern bedrooms. All furnished to a high 3 star standard. Lovely restaurant, lounges and bar. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 98 A perfect location for exploring Speyside, Royal Deeside, Whisky Trail and Skye is accessible too. Has always been a popular hotel for groups. Perhaps its because of the nightly entertainment including a Scottish night on a Wednesday. Or, the recent addition of 24 quality 3 star bedrooms. One thing is for sure the hotel is professionally managed by the owner and prices are always lower than other hotels in the area.

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 44 One of only a handful of hotels which take groups in Fort William. The West End is the best one. It is small enough to care, and the service is always spot on. The food is always good as they know how to treat groups properly. It is centrally located with views over the loch.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £28 High £57.50

Low £28 High £44

Low £3 High £49

Glencoe Isles of Glencoe Hotel

Grantown on Spey Craiglynne Hotel

Inveraray Argyll Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 59 A modern hotel nestling on the side of a peninsula reaching out into Loch Leven. All bedrooms have either a mountain or loch view. The Isles lays on excellent out of season Houseparty packages, which has made this hotel a year round favourite. Only 14 miles from Fort William. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Guest Review 75% Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 80 The Craiglynne is a grand Victorian building, set in its own grounds. It is ideally located for visiting the beautiful villages, mountains, rivers and Speyside attractions. All the bedrooms have been elegantly redesigned with contemporary and natural décor. Quality and quantity describes the Criaglynne’s Speyside Restaurant, with the hotel staff being well versed in group requirements.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £28 High £59

Kingussie

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 36 Few hotels have such a distinguished past as the Argyll. Originally built in 1750 to accommodate guests visiting the castle which is adjacent to the hotel. The hotel has a lochside location and in the centre of picturesque Inveraray. Most rooms have either a loch or mountain view. Each bedroom is individually styled and furnished on either the 1st or 2nd floor up a spiral staircase.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £28 High £44

Low £36 High £48

Duke of Gordon Hotel

Newtonmore Balavil Hotel

Newtonmore Highlander Hotel

Guest Review 79% Steps into hotel: 20 Bedrooms: 60

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel:1 Bedrooms: 50

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 85

There is a roaring open fire, which is lit 365 days of the year. The warmness of the hotel carries on from the entrance area through to the bedrooms. The staff are always helpful and the food has a Scottish twist. A solid Highland hotel with lots of character. Entertainment 6nts a week.

Over the years the Balavil has been a favourite for many of Classic’s clientele. Its ease of access, coupled with excellent group rates, makes the hotel a popular venue. The hotel changed hands back to the Coyle Family in July 2011, who have worked tirelessly to bring the hotel back to its former glory.

Cynthia and Elaine manage the Highlander and between them have notched up over 40 years in the hotel. Operators book this hotel year on year, a testament to the success & popularity of this Highland Hotel. Great food & staff, excellently managed are just 3 of the reasons for choosing this hotel. Entertainment is on 7 nights a week. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £40 High £49

Prices pppn DBB from Low £27 High £38

Prices pppn DBB from Low £28 High £38

Oban Caledonian Hotel

Oban Columba Hotel

Oban Regent Hotel

Guest Review 78% Steps into hotel: 4 Bedrooms: 57

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 44

One of the landmark buildings of Oban dating back to 1882, and now one of the major hotels in the town. It proudly stands on the harbourside, only a couple of minutes walk to the rail and ferry terminals. Most rooms have magnificent sea views towards the islands. Much of the hotels Victorian heritage is still in evidence throughout the public areas.

This grand sandstone hotel has been a focal point of Oban for well over 100 years. Probably the best located hotel in the town, right on the seafront, next to the harbour & in the town centre. All rooms have views of the town or the sea. All bedrooms refurbished in 2007, and are larger than average. Only 200m walk from the ferry terminal.

A popular hotel for groups, located on the seafront in the centre of Oban. Although only a 2 star hotel, the food is good, there is entertainment on most nts, and Classic guests are allocated the best rooms, most of which have sea views. It is by far the cheapest hotel in Oban for groups.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £40 High £57

Low £34 High £46

Great reviews about the food

Town or city centre location

Fine views from hotel

Guest Review 65% Steps into hotel: 6 Bedrooms: 83

Free use of Leisure facilities

1 4 10 12 11

Drew McFarlane about the Argyll Hotel: “No complaints with the service as all staff were on the ball and made you feel more than welcome. A nice experience and a good base to get about.” Janice Rowan about the Columba Hotel: “We have stayed in quite a few hotels in Oban and this was the best. The room was fantastic, the sea view brilliant.” Mr Mackie about the Ballachulish Hotel: “We had a wonderful time at the Ballachulish hotel, service was great, staff friendly. We will definitely be back. It is a beautiful hotel and location.” Samantha Whyte about Loch Fyne Hotel: “Had an excellent weekend at this hotel everything was first class, friendly staff, superb food and fantastic location. Used all the facilities pool, sauna, steam room and the HOT TUB was great.” William Walker about the Duke of Gordon: “The hotel possesses the spaciousness and grandeur of a bygone era with appropriately beautiful chairs in the dining room and ballroom where music for dancing was provided by a talented musician.” Lorraine McLaren about the Caledonian Hotel: “I booked our weekend stay for a group for a social weekend away. All of us were more than happy with our stay, standard of rooms was excellent very clean and nice.”

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

Inverness & North West Highlands 11 2 12 3 1 8

4 7 6 5

Beauly Priory Hotel

Castletown Castletown Hotel

Gairloch Gairloch Highland Lodge

10 Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 36

Located in the centre of this Highland market town, only 12 miles from Inverness. One of the great features of the Priory is its total flexibility, early check in, late breakfasts. Whatever you want the hotel will do their utmost to deliver. Rooms are in excellent order and the food is constantly remarked on, hence its high guest rating score.

Richard Houston about the Castletown Hotel: “Owners and staff very friendly and helpful and made us feel most welcome. Bar meals were good value and breakfasts excellent. Rooms fairly basic but upgrading was taking place during our stay so will see improvement as we would be very happy to go again.” K. Jolson about the Columba Hotel: “Very impressed with accommodation, quality & variety of food. All staff very warm, friendly & responsive.” A guest about the West Highland Hotel: “We stayed here on our way to Skye, and had a great time. The staff were really good, the food was excellent. Our room had stunning views.” A Guest about the Royal Highland Hotel: “There was a good selection of food for breakfast. Overall, an enjoyable experience at a very affordable price - thanks!” Jennifer Dimelow about the Priory Hotel: “What a wonderful hotel, lovely staff, food out of this world and such lovely staff. Will definitely return.” A Geust about the Kingsmill Hotel: “Spacious rooms and lovely surroundings within the puplic areas. Staff were very helpful and endeavoured to cater for individual needs and preferencies”

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 26 Located approx. 4 miles east of Thurso heading towards John O’Groats. A great spot to stay for your Orkneys Tour. Family owned and managed by the Mackays, and although 2 star, Classic receives excellent reviews and rates are considerably less than Thurso hotels. Emphasis on good food and relaxing ambience.

Guest Review n/a Steps into hotel: 6 Bedrooms: 28 Classic is using this hotel as part of our Marine Wildlife tour. It fits in really well. With views over the water and only a short distance from the wildlife cruise departure point. The benefits are enhanced by guests dining in the Olde Inn, which is 300m away and part of the Lodge, where the dining experience is again very Scottish and in keeping with the nature of the tour. Finally, I think it will be the only hotel with an Honesty bar!

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £40 High £51

Low £35 High £40

Low £45 High £49

Inverness Columba Hotel

Inverness Kingsmills Hotel

Inverness Palace Hotel

Guest Review 7/10 Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 76

Guest Review 9/10 Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 83

This is a beautiful central hotel, right on the riverbank and directly opposite the castle. The hotel is over 100 years old, but entirely refurbed in 2003, retaining much of its Victorian grandeur. Many rooms have river views. It is an ideal hotel for a centred stay and popular for short stays for groups on a touring programme.

Built in 1786, this luxury hotel is the best hotel, quality wise, for groups in Inverness. Located next to the golf course less than 1 mile from the city centre. Major investment was injected into the hotel by the new owners in 2010. All bedrooms are spacious, and public areas are luxuriously fitted out. Hotel has a rosette for its quality of food.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £35 High £58

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 10 Bedrooms: 88 In an enviable position right next to the River Ness and directly opposite the Castle, yet only a couple of minutes walk to the shopping centre. With Classic, the Palace lays on some interesting packages for Groups such as “Drinks Inclusives”. In addition to good quality bedrooms, guests have free use of the extensive leisure club.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £50 High £74

Inverness Royal Highland Hotel

Mallaig West Highland Hotel

Prices pppn DBB from Low £44 High £68

Morar Morar Hotel 9

Guest Review 75% Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 84

Guest Review 71% Steps into hotel: 6 Bedrooms: 40

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 30

Right in the heart of the Highland Capital, Inverness. The hotel has been refurbished in recent years. The bedrooms are excellent, many being less than 4 years old. One of the focal points of the hotel is its staircase, an inspiration for the grand staircase on the famous ship Titanic. The Royal Highland has been looking after visitors for over 140 years & many groups use this hotel.

A great hotel for exploring the smaller isles of Eigg, Muck and Rhum, and with easy ferry access to Skye. All rooms have views and the hotel, under new owners, strive to ensure every guest is not only well looked after, but made to feel at home. Food is plain and plentiful.

The main selling point of the Morar Hotel are the views. They are absolutely breathtaking, looking out over the beach towards the isles. Many of the rooms have the views, and you can sit and enjoy your meals soaking in the scenery. The hotel is approx. 5 miles from Mallaig and less than 45 minute drive from Fort William.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £35 High £57

Low £42 High £54

Low £35 High £52

Nairn Windsor Hotel

Thurso Pentlands Hotel

Ullapool Caledonian Hotel

Guest Review 70% Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 52

Guest Review n/a Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 32

Situated in a peaceful location, and only a couple of minutes walk to the centre of Nairn. The Windsor is a popular hotel for groups. You will find prices with Classic cheaper than hotels in Inverness, which is 14 miles away. The hotel was totally refurbished in 2010, so all bedrooms and public areas are new. Well priced Out of Season Packages available.

If you are looking for a central Thurso hotel then the Pentlands is consistently the best. Classic has been using this hotel for groups for over 10 years, and have nothing but praise for its good food, cleanliness, comfortable rooms and friendly staff. Due to our excellent working arrangements Classic receives preferential group rates.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £35 High £44

Prices pppn DBB from Low £44 High £48

E: groups@classicbritain.com

Free on site coach parking

Lift in hotel, or ground floor rooms

Guest Review n/a Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 70 Located in the centre of Ullapool with views across Loch Broom. Although only a 2* product, Classic guests are allocated the best rooms, and the hotel provides entertainment on most nights and for Ullapool is significantly cheaper than other hotels, so passengers will receive good value. The food is plain but well cooked and plentiful and there is loads of space to relax and take in the views.

Disabled assisted rooms available on request

Prices pppn DBB from Low £30 High £36 Entertainment provided on certain nights at no extra cost

Hotels on the Islands Arran - Brodick Auchrannie Hotel

Arran - Blackwaterfoot Kinloch Hotel

Hebrides - Barra Isle of Barra Hotel

9 6 4 3

Guest Review 98% Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 64

Guest Review 84% Steps into hotel: 7 Bedrooms: 38

Guest Review N/A Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 28

Without doubt one the best hotel on the island for groups, set in wonderful grounds and within walking distance of the Island’s capital. It offers guests a traditional stay with all the modern comforts. There is a choice of 3 iconic restaurants and 2 lesiure clubs. A place for discerning travellers looking for a spot of luxury.

Located in the coastal village of Blackwaterfoot on the western side of Arran. The main hotel on the island for groups. Personally owned and managed by the same family for over 50 years. Lovely waterfront setting with most rooms having seaviews.

The Isle of Barra Beach Hotel literally sits just off the white sandy beach, what a welcome to a Hebridean Island Lifestyle.The views from most rooms and the restaurant over look the beach and Atlantic Ocean. You can watch commercial planes landing on the beach! It is the only airstrip of its kind in the UK. The hotel has a relaxing lounge & bar.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £55 High £70

Low £35 High £54

Low £45 High £50

Hebrides - North Uist Dark Island Hotel

Hebrides - Stornoway Caladh Inn

Hebrides - Stornoway Caberfeidh Hotel

Guest Review N/A Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 42 Centrally located within the Hebridean spine, the Dark Island is a family owned hotel with the emphasis on informality – a place where you are made very welcome. The food is fresh using lots of local produce and the setting is sublime, surrounded by beautiful scenery, a great place to go for a stroll after dinner. The hotel is a popular venue for groups – you will be well looked after.

Guest Review N/A Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 67 Sister hotel to the Caberfeidh, Caladh Inn is a “good value for money” hotel located in the centre of Stornoway, and near to the ferry terminal. It is also the largest hotel on the island. The fabric of the hotel is good 2 star especially in the public areas. Rooms have all the mod cons and are en suite. It is the staff that make a hotel, and you will always be assured of a smiling face when you arrive and throughout your stay.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £40 High £51

Guest Review N/A Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 72 The islands most luxurious hotel, located on the outskirts of town, and in a beautiful area for parkland walks and to take in the views. The hotel is perfectly placed to make the most of your visit to the Isle of Lewis knowing that you have comfortable & recently refurbished accommodation and a delicious dinner on returning from your day out.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £45 High £63

Prices pppn DBB from Low £65 High £73

Isle of Man - Douglas Chesterhouse Hotel

Isle of Mull - Craignure Isle of Mull Hotel

Orkneys - Stromness Stromness Hotel

Guest Review N/A Steps into hotel: 12 Bedrooms: 67

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 0 Bedrooms: 80

One of the main hotels in Douglas. It has a wonderful seafront location and near to all the amenities which Douglas offers. Bedrooms are of a good 3* standard, and the restaurant and the bar overlook the bay. Please note , due to the original architecture features there are no wheelchair friendly rooms. Its sister hotel - The Rutland is every bit as good having completed a multimillion pound refurbishment.

Approx. ½ mile from Craignure ferry terminal, this hotel reopened in spring 09 after a complete top to toe refurbishment. It is the largest hotel on the island and has a wonderful setting on the coast, with every room having open views. It really is the only hotel to stay in whilst visiting Mull.

Classic has used Stromness for a number of years and we find it is the best value hotel on the island. It has an historical feel about the place, well it is over 100 yrs old. It is located right on the harbour side looking out towards Scapa Flow. Rooms are what you’d expect of a 3* island hotel, spotlessly clean and the food is good and plentiful.

Prices pppn DBB from

Low £38 High £47

Low £40 High £57.50

Low £55 High £68

By Skye - Balmacara Balmacara Hotel

Skye - Broadford Dunollie Hotel

Guest Review 8/10 Steps into hotel: 3 Bedrooms: 28 Classic has visited all the group hotels in and around Skye. Balmacara’s ratings are by far the best. Totally refurbished in 2007. Rooms are good. The views are better, and rave reviews about the food. Staff are helpful and nothing is too much bother. Balmacara is the hotel to stay in when visiting the Skye area.

St. Helier - Jersey

Mayfair Hotel

Guest Review 65% Steps into hotel: 1 Bedrooms: 84

Guest Review N/A Steps into hotel: 2 Bedrooms: 222

The problem with Skye is there are only 2 group orientated hotels, the Dunollie is the better of the two. The rooms are very 2 star, but the Dining Room has beautiful views across the water and on to the mountains. The staff are very helpful and friendly, and entertainment is featured most nights of the week. It’s a “no frills” hotel, well priced and suitable for 1 or 2 night stays.

One of the most popular hotels in the capital, less than a 10 minute stroll from the town centre and beaches. The hotel has 222 bedrooms, and a lift services all floors. There is a roof terrace to soak in those balmy summer days, a full leisure complex with heated indoor pool and a regular entertainment programme.

Prices pppn DBB from Low £35 High £49

Prices pppn DBB from Low £45 High £60

Prices pppn DBB from Low £40 High £57 Great reviews about the food

Guest Review N/A Steps into hotel: 6 Bedrooms: 42

Town or city centre location

Fine views from hotel

Free use of Leisure facilities

5 11

10 2

A guest about the Isle of Mull Hotel: “Excellent value and nice hotel….Food superb, and staff very good”. Gayle Peters about the Kinloch Hotel: “We stayed for two nights on the first floor which had an amazing view of the sea. The room was large and warm and the king size bed was very comfortable.” H Duncan about the Balmacara Hotel: “Hotel is clean and bright with superb views over the water from dining room and breakfasting areas. Staff are friendly and efficient but not obtrusive. Food was very tasty and good value.” A guest about the Auchrannie Hotel Resort: “This is a wonderful hotel. Cannot imagine that anyone would be unhappy with what is on offer. All staff encountered, impressed me greatly by being perfectly natural hosts, each with their own character. Facilities are superb and beautifully maintained.” A guest about the Dunollie Hotel: “This is a no frills hotel, but for our overnight stay was perfectly acceptable. Most of tour group got sea view rooms and there was some Scottish music after dinner which went down a treat.” A guest about the Caberfeidh Hotel: Quite simply by far the best hotel in the area. Food was sublime and served by local staff with smiling faces”.

T: 0845 1306 241 open 7 days

3 Dunlop Street, Strathaven ML10 6LA Tel: (+0044) 01357 529129 Fax: (+0044) 01357 520999 Email: groups@classicbritain.com www.classicbritain.com

Things you need to know: 1. Information is believed to be correct at time of going to print 2. Prices shown are per person sharing a twin or double room including 20% VAT for the duration of stay on a DBB basis, unless otherwise specified. Single supplements do apply, although several hotels will provide some singles without a supplement. 3. Classic’s price guarantee pledge must be like for like and be available at the time of booking. Excludes amendments. To claim, call Classic, providing us with confirmation detail of the cheaper rate. If there is a like for like cheaper rate with very similar booking conditions and terms, then we will offer you the lower rate without question. 4. Packages shown exclude your own coaching arrangements unless specified in the itinerary. All packages have been negotiated & designed by Classic for the benefit of our clients, and cannot be booked directly with our member hotels. 5. Cancellation without charge 30 days before arrival. Although we are flexible. Classic will ask for updates from you on a regular basis. 6. Payment terms before arrival, unless credit facilities have been agreed. 7. Making a change to a Package All our recommended packages can be “tailor made” to suit your exact needs. Just call and let us know what you are looking for. 8. Confirmations Classic will send you a copy of our terms of business, which are in place to protect us both in case something peculiar arises. If you wish to see a copy before making your booking, let us know and we will send one out to you right away. 9. Adjustment of Itinerary In the unlikely event an element of the holiday becomes unavailable, then Classic will let you know right away either providing you with an alternative or reducing the cost of the package. 10. Minimum numbers required to operate a package is 20 passengers. If you are booking a hotel only then group rates apply to 15 or more adults.

11. Porterage is provided in most hotels within the price, whether on a package or just booking the hotel. 1 piece of luggage per person. Any additional luggage, hotels reserve the right to charge the client at the hotel. 12. Late Bookings Classic recognises the late booking trend by providing 3 twins or double rooms on allocation between 29 and 7 days before arrival. Any requests within 7 days of hotel arrival have to be requested to Classic and not the hotel. On occasion, and in the height of the season an hotel may not be able to offer you late sell rooms. In which case Classic will let you know. 13. Extra Time for selling Classic will assist as much as possible to ensure the operation of each tour. In the event you require extra time to sell a tour, please discuss with Classic first, before cancelling. Quite often our hotels will provide you with extra selling time or further incentives without any financial penalty. 14. Hotel group rates vary enormously, and rates shown are there for guideline purposes. Firm best available group rates will be agreed with you on enquiry. Rates depend on time of year, length of stay, day of week, and volume of business. 15. Entertainment Many of Classic’s hotels provide evening entertainment free of charge, or included in the package. Classic has taken all possible steps to provide you with as accurate information as possible so far in advance, and may be subject to change of day, or style of entertainment provided. If Classic considers this a major change, we will contact you before arrival. 16. Accessibility Please check with Classic for any walking restrictions for passengers booking a package involving a boat cruise. Crew members are on hand to assist as much as possible, but access to the smaller cruise boats will not be possible for passengers who are wheel chair bound. CalMac ferries have full access facilities. 17. Ferries Prices based on maximum 12m length coach. This is the size recommended for most ferry crossings.