Skills Holidays Brochure 2016

BRITAIN & CONTINENTAL EUROPE

2016 Stylish coach holidays for the 21st century | www.Skills.co.uk

Welcome on Board Hello, and a very warm welcome to the Skills 2016 brochure. These next pages are filled with a world of new and exciting destinations as well as a selection of customer favourites. Whether you want to explore England, travel to Wales or Scotland, visit the emerald isle of Ireland or maybe take the trip of a lifetime and travel to somewhere in Europe, there are so many fantastic destinations to choose from and they’re all in this brochure. Skills remains a local family business, hence our strong belief in the local community. We pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of holidays and enjoyable days out for singles, couples and families, which are tailored to suit any budget - Our philosophy is a holiday isn’t just about the destination it’s about the whole experience. I’m very proud of the team here at Skills and we look forward to welcoming you on board in 2016.

your accommodation made simple We use simple symbols in our brochure so you can quickly identify the facilities that are offered. Lift

WiFi Available

Golf Course

Café

Gym

Games/Tennis

Bar

Swimming Pool

Entertainment

Restaurant

Spa/Wellbeing

Seafront hotel

Our Heritage est.1919 Skills Motor Coaches originated in Radford, Nottingham in 1919 and later became a limited company in 1958. Founded originally by Mr Arthur Skill who started using his lorry to collect fish from the early morning market. He later began carrying local miners to Bestwood Colliery and in 1921 he purchased a Crossley Charabanc - Skills’ first bus!

get social

21st century

Join in the conversation, meet new friends and share your Skills experiences with us. Share your #SkillsSelfie photographs and holiday snaps by emailing them to selfie@skills.co.uk. Or upload them on our Facebook page, alternatively use the hashtag #SkillsSelfie on Instagram

Today Skills is still very much in the family name as our Chairman Nigel Skill, and Financial Director Simon Skill are both grandchildren of the founder Arthur Skill. We are proud to provide great value breaks and holidays by coach to the greater community. With over 90 years of experience all of our holidays are crewed and we pride ourselves on having the most helpful, courteous and knowledgeable drivers in the industry. There are even more ways to get in contact with us here at Skills:

Nigel Skill Chairman, Skills Group of Companies

www.twitter.com/SkillsHolidays and tweet us @SkillsHolidays www.facebook.com/SkillsHolidays1919 come and say hello! www.youtube.com/SkillsHolidays watch our videos www.instagram/SkillsHolidays upload your best holiday pics

Check our website www.skills.co.uk for all of the latest deals, news and events. Tweet us your holiday experiences. Like us on Facebook and remember to keep sharing your #SkillsSelfies with us. Upload your holiday photo’s on Instagram.

“financial protection” Skills Holidays are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday Group of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK Ltd who provide a government approved consumer protection scheme. This ensures that in accordance with the coach package holidays featured in this brochure and on our web site that our clients’ monies are protected by a Bond in the unlikely event of the Member’s insolvency. Full details can be obtained at www.bch-uk.org or call 0207 240 3131

Call Call to to book book on on 08456 08456 66 66 55 55 44 44 9am-10pm 9am-10pm or or visit visit www.skills.co.uk www.skills.co.uk

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

skills holidays

our frequently asked questions are here to assist you before travel

For more details visit www.skills.co.uk/holidays

Our friendly reservations advisors are often asked a variety of questions from customers prior to travel...listed below are some of the most frequently asked questions.

skills coachstyle

If you are working to a budget and looking for ‘low cost and bargain breaks by coach’ then Skills Coachstyle offers a fantastic range of breaks and late availability at excellent value for money. Join these tours from the East Midlands, South Yorkshire, The Skills Park and Ride or at the Hotel. For more details visit www.skills.co.uk/coachstyle

skills days out

With a wide choice of day trips by coach throughout the year, Skills Days Out offers the perfect choice of ‘family friendly and enjoyable days out’ from coasts and country to attractions and special events. You can join our day trips from selected pick ups in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire.

1) What documentation do I need to travel and will I be sent tickets? You can travel on your confirmation issued upon final balance payment. If your tour includes tickets i.e. event admissions they will be passed to you by your tour driver on the day of the event. 2) I’ve lost my holiday confirmation. How do I get a replacement? Call one of our friendly travel advisors on 0115 9770080 who will be happy to re-issue your documentation.

For more details visit www.skillsdaysout.co.uk

3) Will you send me a reminder of when my balance is due?

laver holidays

No. It is your responsibility to make sure your payment is made on time. Failing to do so may result in your booking being cancelled.

Now part of the Skills Group, Laver Holidays joined the family in the Spring of 2014. When you book a Laver Holiday you can be sure of a ‘fully inclusive’ holiday experience with ‘Door-to-Door’ operating from the East Midlands to destinations across Britain. Contact us today on 0845 666 5544 to request your copy of the brochure. For more details visit www.laverholidays.co.uk

4) Who do I make my cheque payable to?

skills group travel

Please make cheques payable to ‘Skills Holidays’.

We offer a ‘Tailor made service for group organisers’ with Skills Group Travel. We can provide you and your group with a tour or holiday specific to your needs for groups of 25 people or more. Contact Skills Group Travel today on 0115 9777416 for advice on the perfect itinerary to suit your group requirements. For more details visit www.skills.co.uk/group-organisers

FAQs

Offering ‘stylish coach holidays for the the 21st century’, the Skills Holiday brand offers a full and comprehensive choice of holidays to Britain, Ireland and Continental Europe. Join these tours from a variety of departure points from across the East Midlands, South Yorkshire, The Skills Park & Ride or at the Hotel.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

5) If I make changes to my holiday will I be charged? Yes. We charge an administration fee

for any amendments made to your booking, please see Section 19 of our Trading Charter for full details. 6) Is it compulsory to take travel insurance? It is a condition of booking that you have valid travel insurance. If you do not currently have a travel insurance policy, we do offer fully comprehensive policies (including cancellation cover), for all of our UK, Ireland and Continental Tours, starting from only £17 per person. 7) Why do I have to pay a single supplement? Many of the hotels we use charge a supplement for single rooms or double rooms used for sole occupancy. Unfortunately, this is standard practice within the hotel industry. We do offer a selection of holidays which do not carry a single supplement charge; early booking is highly recommended. 8) Can I reserve a seat on the coach? Yes. At the time of booking you will be advised on the availability of seating. You can pick your seat, which will be allocated to you throughout the duration of your holiday.*

* Please note seat numbers do not apply on shuttle or feeder services. Please see T&C’s.

9) How much luggage can I take? One medium-sized suitcase per person (15kg). If you are travelling on a Continental tour we recommend that you bring an additional overnight bag with you. We do provide luggage labels so that your luggage can be quickly and clearly identified. 10) Am I able to bring my wheelchair or mobility scooter? Due to limited space we can only permit two wheelchairs or one wheelchair and a lightweight (15kg or less) mobility scooter per coach. Collapsible walking frames are included in this limitation. You must reserve a space at the time of booking and this will be confirmed in correspondence. We reserve the right to not carry wheelchairs or mobility scooters that are not booked in advance. Our driver is not able to assist with the loading of scooters. 11) Will there be a toilet on the coach and will there be comfort stops? Most of our coaches have toilet facilities (please see trading policy for more details

page 96 and 97). On most of our tours there will be a comfort stop dependent on the time and distance travelled. Every 2-3 hours; your tour driver will be able to offer assistance.

12) Can I be picked up from my home? Yes. We offer a door to door taxi service which incurs an additional cost. See page 6 for more information. 13) Can I make requests to the hotel? Yes. We will take any requests at the time of booking and pass these onto the accommodation providers who try their best to grant any special requests. Please note that special requests cannot be guaranteed. All dietary/special needs requirements must be specified at the time of booking so that the necessary arrangements can be made. 14) Do I need a passport? A full British passport with 6 months validity from the departure date is required for Continental Europe. For holidays to Ireland, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands, you are required to bring valid photo ID (such as a driver’s licence, passport or bus pass).

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

skills british

Joining your holiday

The easiest way to join your holiday coach is at one of our local pick up’s across the East Midlands and Leicestershire but if this isn’t at your convenience we also offer these easy ways, so leave your troubles at the door.

park & ride - Choose to park at our premises that are staffed and secure 24/7 for an additional charge (see below). Located just off the M1, junction 26. NEWS

We are changing the way our customers can use our Park & Ride for 2016 still the most convenient way to start your holiday, it will allow us to make our services more efficient. Starting 1st January 2016 our Park & Ride services will only be available for 4 or more day tours. However we will also be offering *free Park & Ride services to customers travelling with us from Sheffield, Chesterfield and Leicester postal codes. *Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Address confirmation at the time of booking must be a ‘S’/LE postcode.

PARK & RIDE CHARGES PER CAR 4-5 days 6 days or longer £20 per car £30 per car Booking and payment for this service must be confirmed at the time of making your holiday reservation as demand is high and spaces are limited to first come first serve. We will also ask for your car registration details at the time of booking. See section 25 of the Trading Charter on p97.

we will arrange to collect and/or return you to and from the Skills Departure Lounge. There is a modest, additional charge for this service based on your post code location, please see the table below for the scale of charges. Terms and conditions apply. NG1, NG3, NG5, NG6, NG7, NG8, NG15, NG16, NG2, NG4, NG9, NG10, NG11, NG14, NG15, NG16, NG17, DE5, DE72, NG13, NG16, DE5, DE7, NG10, NG12, NG17, NG18, DE55, NG21 DE1, DE72, DE74, NG25, DE2, DE24, DE55, DE56, DE73, LE12, NG19, NG21

Timings will be advised prior to departure.

cost £20 £35 £45 £55

If your postcode is not featured in the above grid, then contact us to find out if you are eligible for our taxi pick up service. **Please note that a larger supplement may apply. Price quoted is per journey, per taxi from one collection point as per the lead name on the booking. There is a charge of £10 for each additional pickup/drop off. We reserve the right to pick up additional holiday makers on route and may substitute another vehicle if appropriate. Taxi pickups must be booked and paid for no less than 28 days prior to departure. Taxi’s which are used on a Bank Holiday will incur a 25% increase to the cost per person.

pick up information

Our pick up points are available across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire for all our 4 or more day departures. On each tour you will find a price panel which will indicate the available ‘ROUTE’ applicable located in the top right of the price box. Use the route to cross reference against the pick up point listed below to work out which is the most convenient pick up for you.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

WALES All Inclusive LLanberis NEW Fairytale Gardens of North Wales

21 21

SCOTLAND Scottish Borders NEW Stunningly Royal Scotland

23 23

ISLES Colourful Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Isle of Wight: Victorian Ventnor & Osborne House Isle of Man NEW Multi-Channel Guernsey & Jersey Guernsey ft the Isle of Sark

13 14 22 24 25

WARNER LEISURE HOLIDAYS NEW Cricket St Thomas, Somerset NEW Norton Grange, Isle of Wight NEW Nidd Hall, Harrogate NEW Bodelwyddan Castle

26 26 27 27

SKILLS SPECIAL EVENTS & THEMED BREAKS NEW The Grand National at Aintree Ladies Day at Royal Ascot Ladies Day at Royal Ascot: 3 days Goodwood Festival of Speed Goodwood Revival The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo The Waldorf 5* Luxury in London 4* London Mini Break 4* Liverpool Luxury Spa Breaks: The Ultimate Relaxation packages RHS Tatton Park Flower Show

28 28 28 29 29 30 32 32 33 33 34

NEW

The Stylish Skills British programme is back bigger and better for 2016. Filled with sun, sea and bliss. You will find customer favourites alongside brand new destinations alike. Discover our new Warner Leisure Hotel breaks, exclusively for adults, our luxurious options and a selection of special events.

contents ENGLAND Skills Royal Party Break Chinese New Year Valentines Weekend

8 9 9

EASTER NEW Easter Extravaganza ft Murder Mystery 10 NEW Easter in Yorkshire ft North Moors Railway 10 NEW Cheshire Gardens at Easter 11 11 NEW An Easter Tale of Three Shires Long Eaton, Green

18 19 20 20

NEW

taxi pick up from your front door - For the ultimate in convenience and relaxation

post code areas

Iconic Sights of England ft Stonehenge Thames Tales River Cruises NEW Debonair Darlington NEW Newcastle and Northumberland NEW

ENGLAND Paignton and the English Riviera NEW Cornish Gems: Newquay, St Ives & Padstow Enchanting Eastbourne NEW Brighton ft the i360 Viewing Tower Kent Featuring Call the Midwife Tour NEW Luxury in the Cotswolds

12 12 15 15 16 17

RHS Hampton Court Flower Show RHS Chelsea Flower Show NEW Shrewsbury Flower Show Southport Flower Show Harrogate Flower Show Bluebells at Kew Gardens

34 34 35 35 35 35

Spring-time Ball Summer-time Ball NEW Halloween Ball

36 36 36

Railways & Waterways Shropshire Delights Carlisle to Settle Railway The Secrets of War: Imperial War Museum

37 37 38

NEW NEW

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

kills 20

UNMISSABLE Party breaK

“ARoyal Occasion”

Chinese New Year in London Includes 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast 3 course dinner and party night including disco After dinner tea/coffee Excursions as stated Porterage Bucks Fizz Live Vocalist at breakfast

Lords and Ladies, Kings and Queens are invited back by royal ‘Skills’ appointment to the spectacular city centre hotel party break where you will be treated like royalty. After a hit 2015 break join the Skills team for another party night of fun and fabulous dining at the Best Wester Premier - Queen Hotel, Chester, followed by a breakfast fit for a King, including some fizz to start your day. highlights of your stay...

hotel central located for exploring

Hotel hhhh

Best Western Premier Queen Hotel, Chester

This 4 star Best Western Premier hotel is perfectly located in Chester’s city centre within walking distance to the shopping area. This hotel has a wonderful ultra-imaginative, classy interior full of wonders and eye catching artefacts and comes highly recommended by all Skills staff.

Chinese New Year

Be a part of the sensational crowds as they gather from far and wide to enjoy the largest Chinese New Year celebration outside of Asia. Sunday – We arrive in London. Trafalgar Square, home to the largest celebration outside of Asia to celebrate the Year of the Monkey, who represents optimism, ambition and adventure! Hundreds of people descend here to wish each other “Kung Hei Fat Choi” (or Happy New Year) with a lively parade featuring artists

CallCall to book on on 08456 66 55 or book online at www.skills.co.uk to book 08456 66 44 55 9am-10pm 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

, Lo nd on Ch in a To wn

from China, Lion teams, performances from local artists, traditional food and craft stalls can be found in a number of locations. *we will aim to drop you off as close to Trafalgar Square as we can Monday – Enjoy free time to relish in the many sights the capital has to offer. Why not take a stroll down a few of the world famous streets, visit museums like the Natural History Museum or just take a stroll down the Mall and see Buckingham Palace.

£99

2 days

from

Includes...

1 night bed & breakfast;

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast;

Ref:SBAP ROUTE: CALL DATES DAYS FROM S/SUPP Sat 23 January 2 £89 £15

Valentine’s Weekend Special event

Free time in London

highlights of your stay...

Saturday - After your local pick up our weekend can finally begin, arriving in Chester you have free time to explore this magnificent medieval lined city before we check in to our hotel. Bursting with character and diversity, an array of attractions and plenty of shopping opportunities you can do as much or as little as you like. We then continue our journey to the four star Queen Hotel where you’ll have time to relax before joining the Skills team for a fabulous three course meal followed by all your favourite music from old to new and dance the night away! Sunday - Breakfast will be served surrounded by the calm ambiance and why not enjoy a bucks fizz to get you ready for another day to enjoy some more time in Chester. Discover the rich history that the city has to offer, explore the 1000 year old cathedral, take a trip to the zoo or hop on board an open top bus! We depart at approximately 2:30pm for our journey home.

Celebrated in Trafalgar Square

£79

2 days

from

Free time in Harrogate

hotel

Ibis London Wembley Outstanding Value for Money

Ref:SBCN dates

ROUTE: call days from s/supp

Sun 07 Feb

Free time in Leeds;

2 £79 £18

hotel

Novotel Brentford Our Luxiourious Option

Harrogate

Cuddle up with your loved one on a dreamy weekend away that’s simply perfect for two. 3h hotel The Great Victoria Hotel Capture adorable memories together and Bradford toast to another year as we explore Leeds Combining old character and Harrogate. with contemporary highlights of your stay... Saturday – Cosy up and relax as we travel to lovely Leeds, the ultimate shopping destination. If you’d prefer to do something you’d both enjoy why not visit the ballet, opera or explore its gorgeous art scene (not included)

Ref:SBCN DATES

Sun 07 Feb

ROUTE: 2/3 S DAYS FROM S/SUPP

Sunday – After a delicious breakfast we make our way to the romantic spa town of Harrogate. Splash out on a visit to a Turkish bath, enjoy a cream tea for two in the world famous Betty’s Tea Rooms (not included). Or peacefully stroll hand in hand marveling at the grand architecture and quaintness of your surroundings.

elegance this hotel boasts a central location.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SBVD dates

Sat 13th Feb

2 £89 £30

ROUTE: 2/3 N days from s/supp

2 £99 NIL

Lo ve

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Easter Eggstravaganza

3 days

Featuring Murder Mystery & Gala Night

from

NEW for 2016

Managers Favourite Easter Eggs

This year instead of staying at home waiting for the Easter bunny, grab your friends and celebrate your evenings in style. A weekend like no other as we combine suspense and curiosity, lies and deceit with bow ties, live bands and casinos. highlights of your stay... Friday – Following your departure by coach we take a break in historic Cambridge, be inspired by a collection of museums, admire famous majestic college buildings or explore quaint passages leading to boutique shopping areas. We then continue to our hotel for an evening of murder mystery themed entertainment. Saturday – Today we visit the historic Chatham Dockyard. Famous for

the filming location of the popular TV show ‘Call the Midwife’ the dockyard offers a wealth of maritime history home to three incredible warships, museums and art galleries. This evening we enjoy our Gala night, a delicious three-course meal followed by a night of live music and a Casino. Sunday – After breakfast we begin our journey home, stopping off at Canterbury along the way.

£249

Easter in Yorkshire Featuring North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Includes...

NEW for

2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Murder Mystery night with 3 course meal; Entrance to Chatham Dockyard; Excursion to Cambridge; Excursion to Canterbury; 4 course Gala Dinner with live band & Casino

2016

4 days

from

£235

Cambridge

hotel

Mercure Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Situated in a tranquil corner of Kent the four star Mercure Tunbridge Wells hotel is a stylish and contemporary hotel.

Ref: SBEG dates

Fri 25 Mar

Day 1 – We arrive in York, rich in history, romance and quaint cobbled areas. We then continue to our hotel in Hull. Day 2 – Spend Easter Sunday on the golden shores of Filey, full of gentle pleasures, Edwardian architecture and quirky shops. This afternoon we

ROUTE: 2/3 s days from s/supp

3 £249 £40 Scarborough

return to our hotel for a traditional Sunday Lunch. Day 3 – Today we travel to Scarborough, its glorious beaches, stunning scenery and a rich history are all waiting to be discovered. Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Whitby before we climb on-board our steam train for the ultimate journey along the North Yorkshire Moors, sit back and relax as you enjoy the enchanting landscapes of the National Park while you glide through the glacial valley.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Includes Easter Egg & Sunday Lunch

Includes... 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Easter egg & Sunday Lunch; Free time in York; Excursion to Filey, Scarborough & Whitby; Ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway: Whitby to Pickering.

Whitby

Enjoy the sun, sea and sand this Easter as we cruise over to the coast combining the romance and atmosphere of everyone’s favourite seaside towns with the dramatic views along the famous North Yorkshire Moors Railway. highlights of your stay...

Cheshire Gardens at Easter NEW for 2016

Tatton Park

The smell of spring is in the air as graceful gardens begin to wake from their winter slumbers. Immerse yourself in a world of majestic halls with unique stories to tell as they create the backdrop to fragrant gardens blossoming with vibrant colours.

4 days

from

£279

hotel

Mercure Royal Hotel Hull Ideally located in the heart of Hull city centre, with an array of shops, restaurants and museums all within easy walking distance.

Ref: SBYO

ROUTE: 4+ N

dates

days from s/supp

Sat 26 Mar

4 £235 NIL

Day 1 – We stop off at Chester before arriving at our hotel. Day 2 – Today we enjoy a full day’s excursion to Tatton Park, located in 1,000 acres of the most beautiful deer parkland; this former Egerton family home is the perfect day out. Uncover centuries of history at the Tudor Old Hall or wander through glorious lush gardens. Day 3 – Spend your Easter Sunday strolling through the romantic Ness Botanic Gardens, these awardwinning gardens contain the finest collection of rhododendron and azaleas

in the Northwest. Boasting an outstanding collection of Chinese plants, magnificent specimen shrubs and rose gardens you will be transported into a world of vivid and radiant colours. Afterwards we are taken back to the hotel to enjoy a traditional Sunday Lunch. Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Arley Hall and Gardens, a place of enormous character, charm and interest. The Hall showcases elaborate ceilings, grand oak panelling and beautiful stained glass windows while the gardens are amongst the finest in Europe.

Gloucestershire, Herefordshire & Worcestershire

Includes... 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Easter egg & Sunday lunch included; Free time in Chester; Excursion to Tatton Park; Excursion to Ness Gardens; Excursion to Arley Hall and Gardens

highlights of your stay... North Yorkshire Moors Railway

An Easter Tale of Three Shires

Butterfly

hotel

Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel

Nestled amidst two acres of landscaped gardens just two miles from the city centre. Enjoy the onsite Feel Good Health Club with heated pool.

Ref: SBEC dates

Fri 25 Mar

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

4 £279 NIL

NEW for 2016

River Wye

Surrounded by outstanding natural beauty and decorated in a dynamic history stretching to the Iron Age these alluring shires have continued to inspire all those who are lucky enough to witness its sensational beauty and charms. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Arriving in Gloucester, on the banks of the River Severn this city has a rich historic past stretching back to Roman times. In the heart of this bewitching city stands the Norman cathedral a short walk along narrow cobbled streets leads you to the main shopping areas. Day 2 – Where better to spend Easter Sunday than at Ross on Wye, this 700 year old town overlooks the River Wye. Sitting high on a sandstone cliff offering panoramic views of the rolling countryside, peaceful gardens and riverside walks. This afternoon we enjoy

lunch and maybe even an easter egg hunt. Day 3 – Today we travel to Hereford, relax in a coffee shop or wander to the historical centre for some retail therapy including the finest local produce from Hereford Beef to gourmet cheese. We also visit the Hereford Cider Museum; this tour exposes the history of traditional cider making at its best. Day 4 – After breakfast we take you to Malvern Hills, described as a mountain range in miniature. We also visit Great Malvern, a green picturesque paradise before returning home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

4 days

from

£269

Includes... 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Easter Egg & Sunday lunch at the hotel; Free time in Gloucester; Excursion to Ross on Wye, Hereford & Malvern Hills; Entrance to Hereford Cider Museum .

Hereford Cider Museum

hotel

Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Gloucester On the outskirts of picturesque Gloucester, surrounded by acres of beautiful grounds, this elegant country house boasts modern rooms and a friendly service.

Ref: SBEE dates

Sat 26 Mar

ROUTE: 4+ s days from s/supp

4 £269 £60

Paignton & The English Riviera Customer Favourite

5 days

from

£269

Cornish Gems

Includes...

If it’s fun in the sun you’re looking for, the English Riviera has everything you need. Paignton, Brixham and Torquay offer 22 miles of un-spoilt beaches and spectacular coastline highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We arrive at our resort in Paignton. Day 2 – Today we head to Cornwall for a visit to two of the prettiest Cornish towns, Looe and Polperro. The little waterfront cafes at either of these locations create an idyllic place to enjoy a Cornish clotted cream tea. Day 3 – After breakfast you are at leisure to enjoy the local area, relax on the pristine beach, hire a boat and glide along the ocean, wander around the town

center or take a trip to Paignton Zoo! It’s entirely up to you. (Excursions not included)

Day 4 – After breakfast we make our way to possibly the most well-known town in Torbay; Torquay, a modern and lively resort, the perfect place to pick up any holiday souvenirs or relax in one of the seafront bars and restaurants. Day 5 - After breakfast we bid a fond farewell and make our journey home.

2016

Cambria Hotel, Paignton Located on Paignton’s seafront our hotel is perfectly placed for us to enjoy the magnificent views of Torbay. The Cambria is family run and provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. *Lift does not serve all floors.

Ref: SBPA ROUTE: 4+ s Mon 11 Apr Mon 06 Jun Mon 26 Sep

£369

Includes... 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to St Ives; Excursion to Padstow; Free time in Newquay

Colourful Cornwall & the Isles of Scilly

5 days

from

days from s/supp

5 £269 Nil 5 £289 Nil 5 £279 Nil

Cornwall is best known for its outstanding natural beauty and stunning coastlines. Relax and gently explore the real beauty the area has to offer. With visits to St Ives, Padstow and free time in Newquay you will get a real insight into one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK. highlights of your stay...

Day 1 – We travel south until we reach Cornwall Day 2 – We head to St Ives, widely regarded as the Jewel of Cornwall’s Crown. Beautiful and breath-taking scenery surrounds this town. Day 3 – Catch a wave today in Newquay, or paddle in the shallows. Go wild at Newquay Zoo or explore the deep Blue Reef Aquarium

With a beautiful beach, harbour and a selection of trinket shops your day will be well spent. Day 4 - After breakfast we make our way to Padstow, a beautiful seaside village home to the famous seafood restaurant run by Rich Stein. Day 5 – After breakfast we bid a fond farewell and make our journey home.

(not included).

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

£479

Includes...

CUSTOMER Favourite

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Porterage included; Excursion to St Ives; Entrance to Barbara Hepworth Museum; Excursion to the Isles of Scilly; Visit to the Trebah Gardens & Falmouth

Newquay, Cornwall

hotel

dates

from NEW for

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Looe & Polperro; Excursion to Torquay; Free time in Paignton

Looe, Cornwall Coast

5 days

featuring Newquay, St Ives & Padstow

Seagull in Cornwall

hotel

Best Western Hotel Bristol Newquay

This family-run hotel situated by the sea is the ideal base from which to explore this picturesque place.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SBCG dates

Mon 28 Mar Mon 03 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

5 £369 £76 5 £369 £76

Cornwall

St Ives

Discover Cornwall and the Scilly Isles an area of unspoilt beauty, where picturesque emerald natural parks meet golden, twinkling coastlines and sapphire shores. Relax as we explore a place unlike anywhere else in Great Britain with visits to St Ives, Falmouth and the Scilly Isles you will experience a real insight into its history and tranquil beauty. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – After your pick up we travel to Cornwall where we enjoy a four nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast stay. Day 2 – We visit St Ives, widely regarded as the Jewel of Cornwall’s Crown. Beautiful and breath-taking scenery surrounds this seaside town. We also make a stop at the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden; here you’ll see Barbara’s

sculptures exhibited in the tranquil gardens and the studio where she created them. Day 3 - Travelling to the Scilly Isles, we depart from Penzance Quay where you’ll enjoy an informative commentary as you sail past Newlyn, Mousehole, the Minack Theatre and Wolf Rock Lighthouse. When you arrive on the largest of the Isles; St Mary’s you’ll have free time to

explore the sparkling white sandy beaches, discover ancient sites or wander the cluster of shops and cafés in Hugh Town. Day 4 – Today we visit Falmouth, a town surrounded by outstanding beauty and reknowned for its maritime history. We also visit Trebah Gardens; a Cornish valley garden bursting with exotic blooms and vibrant tunnels of colour that cascades

down to a secluded beach on the Helford River. Day 5 – After breakfast we bid a fond farewell and make our journey home.

hotel

Esplanade Hotel, Newquay This welcoming and contemporary hotel is ideally located in the seaside town of Newquay overlooking the world famous Fistral Beach.

Ref: SBcS dates

Mon 20 Jun

ROUTE: 4+ s days from s/supp

5 £479 £70

St M ar y’s

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Isle of Wight: Victorian Ventnor & Osborne House

Osborne House

We encapsulate miles of golden beaches, multi-coloured sand cliffs with traditional towns, quaint British villages and a trip to Queen Victoria’s grand Osborne House. highlights of your stay...

explore the beautiful sheltered bays, famous long golden beach, traditional pier and seafront of Sandown. Day 4 – We arrive at Osborne House, one of the most visited historic houses in Britain designed by Queen Victoria’s beloved Prince Albert in the style of an Italian villa. Set in acres of beautiful grounds and ornamental rose gardens it’s easy to see why this house was

one of Queen Victoria’s favourite places. We then visit the exotic Ventnor Botanic Gardens. Laying in the heart of the remarkable microclimate this unique garden showcases a variety of rare plants that fail to grow anywhere else in England. Day 5 – We hit the road again today as we travel to the Needles, home to the famous chairlift; Alum Bay, renowned for its picturesque multi-coloured sand

cliffs and Freshwater Bay, home to one of the prettiest beaches in the Isle of Wight before we travel back to our hotel. Day 6 – Enjoy the day at leisure. Do as much or as little as you like maybe visit the local Zoo, built within the ruins of a Victorian Fort or head over to the Dinosaur Museum for a lesson in history (excursions not included.)

Day 7 – We bid a fond farewell and make our journey home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

£489

Enchanting Eastbourne

5 days

from

£289

Includes...

Return ferry sailing; 6 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Sandown; Excursion to Osborne House & Ventnor Botanic Gardens; Excursion to Needles, Alum Bay & Freshwater; Excursion to Cowes & Shanklin

4 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast; Three course evening meal with tea & coffee included; Excursion to Brighton; Free time in Eastbourne; Excursion to South Downs National Park

Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight

Day 1 – We take you to the Isle of Wight for a dinner, bed and breakfast stay. Day 2 – Today we travel to the unique town of Cowes, split into two by the River Medina. Steeped in maritime history, with two large harbours and beaches this is the perfect place to relax. Later we visit Shanklin, a charming traditional seaside resort with a glorious beach. Day 3 – Enjoy a free day today to

7 days

from

hotel

The Wight Bay Hotel , Sandown This family-friendly hotel is just 3 minutes’ stroll from Sandown Pier and the beach.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SBiw dates

Sat 16 Jul

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

7 £489 NIL

NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

Eastbourne Pier

From rolling hills to bustling market towns, Eastbourne is traditionally the sunniest place in the UK. Retreat here for a stay filled with hotel breathtaking views, hidden gems and 8 miles 3h Cumberland Hotel, of unspoilt coastline. What’s not to love? Eastbourne highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Following your pick up we head south for a 4 nights’, dinner, bed and breakfast stay. Day 2 – After breakfast we make our way to Brighton, upon arrival the day is yours to spend as you desire, take a stroll along the famous Brighton Pier, Promenade and beach or you may like to see the Royal Pavilion; the spectacular seaside palace of George IV. (Entrance not included)

Day 3 – Explore the local award winning beaches that Eastbourne has to offer, wander along the beautiful seafront lined with welcoming bars and

restaurants or visit the high street for a little retail therapy. Day 4 – Today we visit South Downs National Park one of the richest and most stunning landscapes in England. From some of our best known views to secrets waiting to be shared, the South Downs is a living, breathing museum of life in England that stretches over thousands of years. With so much richness of culture and nature contained within, there really is something for everyone to explore. Day 5 – After breakfast we make our journey home.

Holding a wonderful position on the seafront overlooking the famous flower decked promenade, the bandstand and English Channel.

Brighton And the Sussex Coast NEW for 2016

Brighton

England’s loveliest and liveliest city by the sea offers picturesque postcard views and lasting memories. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We take you straight to Brighton. Day 2 – Today enjoy a full day to Worthing and Littlehampton, grab a bite at the famously unusual East Beach Café (named one of The Times’ 20 best places to eat) before strolling along the UK’s longest beach (lunch not included.)

Ref: SBEA dates

Mon 27 Jun Mon 12 Sep

ROUTE: 4+ s days from s/supp

5 £289 NIL 5 £289 NIL

5 days

from

Day 3 – We take a voyage as we glide towards the skies up the i360 viewing tower to enjoy breathtaking 360 degree views. Standing at 450 feet it is the world’s largest moving observation tower. See Sussex like never before. The afternoon is yours to discover all the places you saw up in the air.

Or join us for an optional excursion. Bluebell Line £15pp – An effortless journey running through the heart of Sussex on preserved steam train.

£399

Includes... 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Worthing & Littlehampton; Excursion to i360 in Brighton; Excursion to Brighton; Free time in Lewes *Please note, on the May date we will visit Arundel Castle instead of the i360 Tower and the optional Bluebell Line will be featured on Day 4

hotel

Jurys Inn, Brighton

The city centre attractions and shops are Must be booked at the time of all within a 15 minute booking. walk. Day 4 – Explore Brighton, from the stunning heritage and history hidden at the Royal Pavilion to the seaside fun at Brighton Pier. Day 5 – We take you to Lewes, this small towns name derives from the Old English ‘hlaews’ meaning ‘hills’ as it is built into the Ref: SBBR ROUTE: 4+ S slopes either side of the dates days from s/supp Ouse Valley. We then Mon 16 May 5 £399 £49 continue our journey Mon 25 Jul 5 £399 £49 home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Mon 05 Sep

5 £399 £49

Kent featuring Call the Midwife Tour

5 days

from

£385

Includes...

Luxury in the Cotswolds:

5 days

from

Villages, Poldark & Sudeley Castle

NEW for 2016

Return coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast; Excursion to Whitstable & Margate;

–

Free time in Canterbury With a River Cruise; Guided Midwife Tour & Entrance to Chatham Docks Chatham Docks

Canterbury Westgate Towers

The hit BBC period Drama ‘Call the Midwife’ portraying the lives of a group of Midwives working in a povertystricken London, during the 1950s, is the highlight this week. Surprisingly it takes us to Kent, Chatham Docks where many of these much loved episodes were filmed. From countryside to coast we also visit Canterbury, Whitstable and Margate for an engaging and mixed break. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We travel straight to Kent for a 4 night stay. You are then free to use the many facilities the hotel has to offer before we enjoy our evening meal. Day 2 – After breakfast we take you to Chatham Docks where you will be greeted by a midwife on the Second World War Destroyer HMS CAVALIER. The midwife will take you on an hour

and a half guided tour of the various film locations used in the hit BBC Drama ‘Call the Midwife’. You will then be given free time to explore the docks for yourself. Day 3 – After breakfast we make our way to Whitstable a timelessly British seaside town. We also visit Margate twinkling with sparkling bays and sandy beaches.

Day 4 – Today we visit Canterbury where you’ll have free time to explore the beautiful architecture and history this city has to offer. Why not visit the famous Canterbury Cathedral which dominates this city’s skyline

hotel

Mercure Maidstone Great Danes, Maidstone

Located in the heart of the ‘Garden of England’ this is a beautiful base for our 4 night stay.

Day 5 – After breakfast we bid a fond farewell to Kent and make our way home.

Ref: SBKT

(entrance not included).

This afternoon we enjoy a relaxing cruise through Canterbury’s Canal system.

dates

Canterbury

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

Mon 23 May 5 £385 £50 Mon 15 Aug 5 £385 £50

Chavenage House

Cotswolds

Quintessentially English, the Cotswolds are an area of charming villages and picture perfect landscapes. If that wasn’t enough, we take a trip down memory lane to the filming location of BBC One’s ‘Poldark’ with the new series back in 2016, this is the perfect opportunity to capture a piece of history. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We visit Sudeley Castle and Gardens, the castle contains many fascinating treasures from ancient Roman times to the present day. Outside, the castle is surrounded by awardwinning gardens set within a breathtaking 1,200 acre estate. Day 2 – Relax and unwind today taking full advantage

of the hotel facilities including swimming pool, sauna, gym and a steam room. Or explore the wonderful lakes, rivers, woodland and surrounding countryside. Day 3 – Today we visit three traditional cotswolds villages – Moreton-in-Marsh, Stowon-the-Wold and Bourton-onthe-Water. These picturesque

villages offer quaint shops and cafes. Day 4 – We visit Chavenage House, an Elizabethan manor built from Cotswold stone. More recently the house has been used in the filming for BBC One’s ‘Poldark’, portraying the story of Ross Poldark after he returns home from the American Revolutionary War.

Day 5 – After breakfast we stop in Chipping Campden before continuing our journey home.

£375

Includes... 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast Entrance to Sudeley Castle and Gardens; Excursion to Moreton-inMarsh, Stow-on-the-Wold & Bourton-on-the-Water; Entrance to Chavenage House; Free time in Chipping Campden; Free time in resort to use the leisure facilities

hotel

Cotswolds Water Park Four Pillars Hotel, Gloucestershire A contemporary luxury hotel set in a paradise of wonderland lakes, rivers and woodlands.

Ref: SBLC dates Sudeley Castle, Library

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Mon 01 Aug

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

5 £375 £80

Iconic Sights of England Featuring Stonehenge & the Roman Baths NEW for 2016

Stonehenge

Bradford-on-Avon

The Nation of Britain has a beautifully rich and embellished history; all around you can find places and relics that describe the rise and fall of great tribes and empires. From the brilliant city of Bath to the remarkable boulders of Stonehenge these momentous sites are as diverse as they are wondrous and reawaken stories to reveal the secrets of its past. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Following your departure we visit the spa-town of Cheltenham before arriving at our hotel in Gloucester. Day 2 – Today we visit Stonehenge and Salisbury. The great ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is one of the unique wonders of the world; it is the focal point in a landscape filled with pre-historical ceremonial structures. The beautiful skyline

of Salisbury is dominated by its 750 year-old cathedral with a magnificent 404ft spire. Day 3 – We visit Bradfordon-Avon and Devizes, these charming market towns provide visitors with a wonderful setting to discover a range of independent shops offering goods and local produce. Day 4 – After breakfast we head to the Georgian city of Bath,

home to some of the richest ancient history in Britain. We visit the Roman Baths to witness first-hand the magnificent temple and bathing complex, still flowing with thermal water from its original source. Day 5 – Stopping off at the medieval market town of Tewkesbury for free time, we then continue our journey home.

£299

Includes...

This contemporary hotel boasts stylish rooms in a central location.

Ref: SBBS dates

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

Mon 09 May 5 £299 £60 Mon 18 Jul 5 £299 £60 Mon 05 Sep 5 £299 £60

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

4 days

from

£299

Includes... 2 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast at Hilton Reading; 1 night bed & breakfast at Hilton Docklands; 4 River Cruises; Free time in Oxford, Henley, London & Greenwich

Oxford

hotel

The New County Hotel, Gloucester

Ro m an Bath s

Av on

Thames Tales River Cruises

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Visit to Cheltenham; Excursion to Stonehenge & Salisbury; Excursion to Bradford on Avon & Devizes; Visit to the Roman Baths; Visit to Tewkesbury

Brad fo rd -o n-

5 days

from

London, Westminster

River Thames

Take in the sights from the waters as you sail from Oxford right down to Greenwich over four fabulous days, making some beautiful and breath-taking stops along the way. regatta. We then take a scenic drive down by the Thames through Marlow, Cockham and Maidenhead. Day 3 – We visit Kew, where we board our boat for a 90-minute journey to central London allowing you to take in London’s most famous landmarks. You will then have free time in London before heading to your second hotel; Hilton Docklands Riverside. This evening is yours

We spend two nights at the Hilton Reading hotel, and one night at the Hilton Docklands Riverside hotel, perfectly located offering stunning views across the water.

highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Arriving in Oxford enjoy free time before we board the first of our four cruises along the River Thames. A two hour sailing will take you to the pretty market town of Abingdon. We then make our way to our first hotel; Hilton Reading. Day 2 – Travelling to Caversham Bridge, where we join our boat for a cruise to the beautiful town of Henley best known for its world famous annual

hotelS

to explore the local area, maybe have dinner at one of the nearby riverside restaurants. Day 4 – We make our way to Westminster Pier where you board the fourth and final boat for a cruise to Greenwich. On arrival you will have some time at leisure to enjoy the local area, famous for being the home of the Cutty Sark.

Gree nw ich

Ref: SBtT dates

Fri 08 Jul

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

4 £299 £70

He nle y

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Debonair Darlington

4 days

from

£269

5 days Highlights of Newcastle from £389 & Northumberland Featuring Alnwick Castle

Includes... NEW for

2016

NEW for

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to County Durham; Free time in Bishop Auckland; Excursion to Auckland Castle; Excursion to Beamish Museum; Entry into Richmond Castle.

2016

Includes... 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Newcastle; Excursion to Alnwick Castle & Gardens; Excursion to Cragside; Full day excursion to Northumbria Coast

Alnwick Castle © Alnwick Castle

Richmond Castle © English Heritage

Let off steam in Darlington, a great place to relax and unwind with unique heritage, contemporary attractions and a famous ‘locomotion’ past. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Following your departure we travel to County Durham, before continuing to our hotel in Darlington. Day 2 – Travelling to Bishop Auckland today, a historian’s paradise, discover its thriving arts and culture or head for Fore Bondgate, a shoppers’ delight.

South Park Darlington -

Next we head to Auckland Castle - for over 900-years it has been one of the UK’s most important buildings. Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Beamish Museum, a world famous open air museum which re-creates the story of life in North East England during the 1820s, 1900s and 1940s. Day 4 – We enjoy the morning at Richmond Castle en route home.

Beamish Town

hotel

Blackwell Grange, Darlington A stunning 17th century mansion located in the County Durham countryside.

Ref: SBCD

ROUTE: 4+ N

dates

days from s/supp

Fri 29 Apr Fri 23 Sep

4 £269 £60 4 £269 £60

From violent Roman invasions to territorial battles between England and Scotland, the legacy of Northumberland’s embattled past can still be seen today, showcasing exquisite castles, battlefields and stately homes alongside sweeping Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and golden coasts. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Travelling north we arrive in Newcastle. Day 2 – Step back through time to Alnwick Castle & Gardens, famously recognised as ‘Brancaster Castle’ featuring in the hit TV show Downton Abbey. This has been home to the Duke of Northumberland and his family for over 700 years, combining magnificent medieval architecture with grand stately rooms and a vibrant history brimming with drama and intrigue. Day 3 – We spend today exploring Cragside House. Recently featured in

Alnwick Castle © Sean Elliot

hotel

The Vermont Hotel, Newcastle upon Tyne Situated in the heart of Newcastle City Centre, combining old character with contemporary elegance.

Robson Green’s Tales from Northumberland on ITV this Victorian house was the first in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. Today it is bursting full of unique ingenious gadgets displayed to the public and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Day 4 – We take you to Northumbria, be sure to pack your walking boots and stroll along beaches, Certificate of Excellence dramatic hills and take in glorious sweeping valleys or Ref:SBKN ROUTE: 4+ N you could just take time out dates days from s/supp to relax. Mon 20 Jun 5 £389 £60 Day 5 – The morning is yours Mon 24 Oct 5 £389 £60 before we return home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

All Inclusive Llanberis Featuring Snowdonia

5 days

from

Fairytale Gardens of North Wales

Includes...

NEW for 2016

Caernarfon

Snowdonia and North Wales are impressive areas steeped in dramatic history yet retaining an air of tranquillity. Now is your chance to see it in style as we feature nightly entertainment, a visit to unique Portmeirion, the shores of Cardigan Bay, and a ride across the Menai Strait to the secluded Isle of Anglesey. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We arrive at the Royal Victoria Hotel, tea/ coffee and biscuits are waiting for us on arrival! Your ‘All Inclusive’ package includes dinner, bed and breakfast, 3 packed lunches and hotel entertainment each evening. Day 2 – We enjoy a brief visit to Betws-Y-Coed before we head over the Crimea Pass to Blaenau Ffestiniog, ‘the town that roofed the world.’ We then continue along the Vale of Ffestiniog to Porthmadog where we have time to explore this pretty harbour town rich in maritime history and loaded with craft shops and restaurants. Day 3 – Today we travel to the unique village of Portmeirion,

£319

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast;Packed lunch on 3 days; Complimentary tea/coffee & entertainment in the hotel; Unlimited house beer/wine between 7pm -11pm; Visit to Betws-Y-Coed, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Porthmadog & Portmeirion; Visit to Caernarfon & Beaumaris; Short stop at Llanfair PG; Visit to the James Pringle Weavers store

designed by William Ellis in the 20th century in the style of an Italian village and set within 70-acres of mixed woodland. Stunning houses in every colour overlook the sea. Day 4 – This morning we visit historic Caernarfon, guarded by a mighty castle that dominates the walled town founded by Edward I, whose first son, the first English Prince of Wales was born here in 1284. Afterwards we cross the Menai Strait for a visit to Beaumaris, Llanfair PG and the James Pringle Weavers store. Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our journey home.

Ref: SBAI

NB days are subject to change

Mon 28 Mar

Caernarfon scenery

hotel

The Royal Victoria Hotel, Llanberis Surrounded by pretty gardens at the foot of the Llanberis Pass making it an attractive base for our stay.

dates

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

5 £319 NIL

5 days

from

£319

Includes... NEW for 2016

Portmeirion

North Wales is flourishing with incredible natural scenery from record-breaking trees at Bodnant Garden, to beds of Snowdonia Lily and ice-age relics. Italian and Japanese inspired landscapes intertwine with shimmering lakes as exotic plants, usually found only in the Brazilian rainforest, grow blissfully at Portmeirion. Whether you’re an animal lover, a picnic connoisseur or just love nature this is the trip for you. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We travel to Llangollen en-route to the hotel Day 2 – We visit Bodnant Gardens, marvel at lush plants from all over the world on a plant-hunting expedition. With expansive lawns, intimate corners, awe-inspiring plant collections and paths leading you around the garden you can explore, discover and delight in its beauty and fresh fragrances of nature. Afterwards we travel to one of North Wales’ best kept secret the hidden world of Plas Cadnant Gardens. Situated at the side of the Menai Strait, hidden away from view are three

intertwined gardens to be discovered. The walled garden with curving walls and pool, a secret valley garden with three waterfalls and an upper woodland garden, with the remains of a 19th Century folly. Day 3 – With a variety of sweet smelling gardens nearby spend today at leisure wandering through an array of fragrances, bright colours and lakes. Day 4 – Portmeirion village to see botanical gardens. Day 5 – Today we take you on a scenic drive through stunning Snowdonia, stopping off in Betws-y-Coed en route home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Welcome drink on arrival & porterage at the hotel; Scenic drive through Snowdonia; Excursion to Portmeirion, Bodnant Gardens & Plas Cadnant Gardens; Free time in Llandudno During the May tour Llandudno will be celebrating The Victorian Extravaganza Week

Gardens

hotel

Ambassador Hotel, Llandudno A uniquely styled, traditional and familyrun hotel

Ref: SBGW ROUTE: 4+ N dates

days from s/supp

Mon 02 May 5 £319 £48 Mon 15 Aug 5 £319 £48

Isle of Man

5 days

from

£419

Includes... 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Return ferry sailing; Excursion to Laxey & Ramsey; Excursion to Peel & Castletown; Free drink with dinner each evening*; Entertainment on 2nd & 4th evening*

Isle of Man, Peel

*April/October only

3h Isle of Man, Sunset

Isle of Man

hotel

Chesterhouse Hotel, Douglas

In the Irish Sea, nestled between Great Britain and Ireland, you will discover an island with stunning scenery and The Chesterhouse offers a unique unspoilt beaches coupled with a rich exciting history spanning over 8000 years just waiting to be discovered. experience for every traveller. The hotel highlights of your stay... offers an individual Day 1 - Departure by coach to water out of the mines and is still Day 4 - Today we enjoy a morning Day 5 - We bid a fond farewell style and luxury that ranks amongst the best Heysham where we board our the largest working waterwheel in Peel, home to a modern before boarding the return ferry offered on the island. ferry to the resort of Douglas. in the world. We head north to marina, sandy beaches and and continuing our journey Day 2 - Discover the holiday island on our full day excursion to Ramsey and Laxey. Situated on the East Coast, Laxey is a picturesque village; once a thriving mining and fishing village it was home to the world’s deepest mines in the 1800s. The Great Laxey Wheel, ‘Lady Isabella’, was used to pump

Ramsey to explore the busiest shopping street on the Island. Day 3 - Enjoy a day at leisure in our seafront resort. The beautiful promenade is lined with welcoming bars and restaurants and the high street is filled with a variety of shops giving us plenty to see and do.

Scottish Borders Featuring the Lake District

Peel Castle, which dominates the landscape. We then make our way to Castletown for an afternoon in the island’s capital with its 600 year old castle built around a picturesque harbour. Wander the narrow winding streets and discover quaint stone cottages.

homewards.

el - Laxe y W he Isl e of M an

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Ref: SBIM

ROUTE: CALL

dates

days from s/supp

Wed 06 Apr Tue 14 Jun Sun 02 Oct

5 £419 NIL 5 £459 £40 5 £419 NIL

5 days

from

Stunningly Royal Scotland

Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick

Fall under the enchanting spell of the sheer beauty and history of the Scottish Borders and the Lake District. Discover the emerald forests, moorlands and rolling hills that have inspired noble poets and writers such as Robbie Burns and William Wordsworth.

highlights of your stay... Day 3 – Today we drive into the Lake District as we make our way to Keswick. There is time to explore before we continue our journey back to our hotel via Cockermouth, the birthplace of William Wordsworth. Day 4 – Arriving at the Devil’s Porridge Museum, you are free to enjoy a fascinating insight into the story of how the largest munitions factory in the world came to be built in Gretna, and sample what the lives of its 30,000 workers would have been like. Day 5 – After breakfast we must say farewell to our hotel as we make our way home.

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Tea/coffee on arrival; Visit to Robert Burns Centre; Free time in Dumfries; Excursion to Threave Gardens; Excursion to the Lake District; Excursion to Devil’s Porridge Museum

5 days

from

£369

NEW Includes... for

Includes... NEW for

2016

Day 1 – We make our way to Gretna Green where a welcome tea or coffee will be waiting for us at the hotel. You are then free to settle into your room before dinner is served. Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Dumfries where Robbie Burns, the national poet, spent his last years. We also visit the Robert Burns Centre where you can discover the connection between the poet and the town. From here we make out way to Threave Gardens, a series of spectacular gardens created by students of the ‘School of Heritage Gardening.’

£289

2016

Managers Favourite

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Glamis Castle & St Andrews; Free time in Edinburgh & Perth; Visit to the Blair Athol Distillery

Edinburgh Castle

hotel

Gretna Hall Hotel, Gretna Green

The Gretna Hall Hotel offers flawless charm and character in an idyllic location surrounded by 10 acres of beautiful gardens.

Ref: SBSU dates

Mon 07 Mar Mon 24 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

5 £289 NIL 5 £289 NIL

Magnificent castles stand proud at the foot of cobbled streets and breathtaking scenery. Discover Scotland’s crown-jewelled past as we visit castles, towns and cities that have stolen the Royal Family’s heart. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We travel north to Pitlochry for a four night stay. Day 2 – We visit Edinburgh, where centuries of rich history meet a vibrant, cosmopolitan city in an unforgettable setting. Day 3 – After breakfast we travel to Glamis Castle; Scotland’s most beautiful castle and the childhood home of HM the Queen Mother. Afterwards we travel to Blair Athol Distillery for a guided distillery tour to witness first hand how they make their finest whiskies. Day 4 – Today we visit St. Andrews, renowned as a place of history, culture and golf and advertising a town motto;

“Dum Spiro Spero” - ‘While I breathe, I hope’. Its medieval roots are still alive along narrow alleys and cobbled streets lined with shops and cafes. Explore the Castle, the ruined Cathedral or the oldest University in Scotland, where Prince William and Kate Middleton attended. Later today we also travel to Perth, consecutive winner of Beautiful Britain Award, with a bustling shopping centre. Day 5 – We return home.

Edinburgh

hotel

Scotland’s Hotel & Spa, Pitlochry

Named after the man who built it, the Crerar Hotel and Spa is quietly tucked away and provides excellent customer service in a peaceful location.

Ref: SBSC dates

Mon 04 Apr Mon 10 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

5 £369 NIL 5 £369 NIL

Glamis Castle

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Multi-Channel Explorer: Jersey, Guernsey & Isle of Sark

NEW for 2016 Jersey Beach

Welcome to the Channel Islands, where British and French influences infuse creating a diverse mix of unmissable stunning scenery, rich heritage and peaceful, unspoilt corners all waiting to be discovered. highlights of your stay... Day 3 – Today we visit Guernsey’s sister island- Sark, the crown jewel of the Channel Islands. Traffic free, with stunning coastal views, the 600 residents get around by bicycle or horse and carriage. While we are on the island we enjoy a unique 2 hour carriage ride with a local guide who will show us the highlights and hidden gems of this remarkable island, including La Seigneurie, historical feudal home and gardens, and Venus Pool. Day 4 – After breakfast we sail across to Jersey. We are met by a

representative and a coach from the island where we are taken to our second hotel for a 3 night dinner, bed and breakfast stay. Day 5 – The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey, is a haven for shopaholics and beach lovers alike, offering independent boutiques and quirky gift shops alongside a historic market, which retains its French roots with an unrivalled café culture that spills out onto the streets. Day 6 – A local guide and coach will collect you from your hotel and

5 days

from

3h © Photo | Location

Guernsey

Winding lanes, miles of green pastures sprinkled with traditional farm houses leading to dramatic cliffs and pristine sandy beaches. Full of unspoilt natural beauty, Guernsey is the perfect paradise. highlights of your stay...

Ref: SBMC ROUTE: CALL dates

Thu 30 Jun

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Return Ferry sailing; Return hotel transfers; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in resort; Full day guided tour of the island; Excursion to Sark & 2 hour carriage ride

hotels

The Merton Hotel, St Saviour, Jersey

days from s/supp

7 £819 £170

£599

Includes...

The Peninsula Hotel, Les Dicqs, Guernsey

whisk you away for a full day tour of the island. Your local guide will take you to the best places and give you all the information you need about this lovely island. Day 7 – After a fantastic MultiChannel stay, we return home filled with happy memories.

Jersey

Guernsey and The Isle of Sark

Return ferry crossings; Return harbour & hotel transfers; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in Guernsey; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in Jersey; Island tour of Jersey; Tour to Herm; Tour to Isle of Sark; 2 hour carriage tour on the Isle of Sark;

Guernsey

Day 1 – We head south for our ferry sailing. Arriving in Guernsey first we are met by a representative from the Island who will take us to our first hotel for a 3 night dinner, bed and breakfast stay. Day 2 – Drift along to an island measuring just a mile and a half long. Herm is the perfect place to escape from it all. With no cars, no crowds and no stress you can spend today relaxing on the beach or exploring its history dating back to 1800’s.

£819

Includes...

Managers Favourite

Jersey Tourism

7 days

from

Day 1 - Departure by coach, we head south for our ferry sailing. We are met by a representative from the island for our hotel transfer, where we enjoy four nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast. Day 2 - Enjoy a day at leisure getting to know this little island and all of its unique customs. Why not visit St. Peter Port with its cobbled streets and picturesque

seafront marina? It is one of Europe’s prettiest harbour towns. Day 3 - Today we take a step back in time and arrive in Guernsey’s sister island- Sark. With no cars, the 600 residents get around by bicycle or horse and carriage. We also include a 2 hour carriage ride on the island. A truly unique place, no amount of words could give it justice.

Day 4 - A local guide and coach will collect you from your hotel and whisk you away for a full day’s tour of the island. Your local guide will take you to the best places and give you all the information you need about this lovely island. Day 5- We bid a fond farewell before continuing our journey home.

hotel

The Peninsula Hotel, Les Dicqs

The Peninsula Hotel is ideally situated on a sandy beach on the North-West coast of the island.

Gu er ns ey

Ref: SBGS

ROUTE: CALL

dates

days from s/supp

Sun 28 Aug

5 £599 £80

rt St Pe te rs Po

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

We are pleased to introduce a new programme of breaks staying at a selection of Warner Leisure Hotels, exclusively for adults and renowned for their comfort, cuisine, luxury and entertainment, a Warner Leisure hotel provides so much more than just a place to stay. Hotel facilities include: Bar, restaurant, coffee lounge, Spa*, sauna, heated swimming pool, table tennis, snooker, outdoor bowls, fun croquet, history walks, woodland walks, archery, rifle shooting, Wi-Fi and fantastic Entertainment package

Cricket St Thomas, Somerset

Entertainment packages include live comedy from some of the UK’s finest ‘funny’ talents. Live bands playing music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s and ‘West End at Warners’ a dazzling live production of some of your favourite musicals hits from London’s West End

Cricket St Thomas

En-suite rooms: Tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer, radio, biscuits replenished daily, TV, reading lamps, comfy chairs, toiletries NB: Spa treatments not included and bookable on site There will be no skills representative during this tour Cafe

Golf Course

Bar

Swimming Pool

Restaurant

Spa/Sauna

Wi-Fi Available

Fitness Centre

Games Room

Nidd Hall

Bodelwyddan Castle

Cricket St. Thomas

Entertainment Norton Grange

26 26

Cricket St. Thomas is an elegant Grade II listed mansion originally built in 1820. Located in Chard, near Somerset, this 4 star hotel has been described as a ‘cider-country jewel’ enveloped by rolling countryside and beautiful gardens the mansion is also famous as the setting for the BBC series ‘To the Manor Born.’ From archery and spa treatments to cream teas and croquet, take a dip in the pool or enjoy a stroll around 160 acres of lakes and grounds. No matter how you choose to fill your days there will be plenty on offer to make them unforgettable.

5 days

from

£349

NEW for 2016

Offering an experience or a peaceful getaway, Warner’s aim is to allow you to do what you like, whenever you feel like it. Whether you want to relax by the pool, get involved in a variety of the days planned events and entertainment or spend time with friends it’s all up to you.

Norton Grange, Isle of Wight

5 days

from

£369

Nidd Hall, Harrogate

5 days

from

£389

Bodelwyddan Castle, 5 days from North Wales

£269

Includes

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast;

Free time to enjoy the hotels extensive entertainment programme & facilities

hotel

Cricket St Thomas, Somerset

Ref: SBWV dates

Mon 18 Jul

Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

5 £349 NIL

Norton Grange

Situated perfectly on the Isle of Wight coastline 4h hotel with nautical themed Norton Grange, rooms and spectacular Isle of Wight sea views. Relax to the sound of the waves as they softly brush against the shore or watch the ships roll in across the Solent, challenge your friends to a game of bowls or explore 23 acres of beautiful gardens and walks.

Ref: SBwv dates

Mon 27 Jun

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

5 £369 NIL

Nidd Hall

The outdoors beckons with the Yorkshire Dales 4h hotel Nidd Hall, on your doorstep, 45 acres of superb gardens, Harrogate fishing, shooting and a games lawn. Inside the Hall you’ll find it’s just as glorious - stained glass, marble and oak wooden floors. Relax in the drawing room, tempt your taste buds in the award-winning restaurant and dance the night away to live music.

Bodelwyddan Castle

This romantic castle, 3h hotel with 260 acres of Bodelwyddan Castle, Victorian parkland, is situated in the beautiful North Wales Welsh countryside, just an hour from Snowdonia and 15 minutes from the beach. You’ll find history galore here - home to the National Portrait Gallery’s Victorian Collection and their mulberry trees are 500 years old!

Ref: SBWV ROUTE: 4+ N dates

days from s/supp

Mon 23 May 5 £389 NIL

Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Ref: SBWV ROUTE: 4+ N dates

Mon 29 Feb

days from s/supp

5 £269 NIL

27 27

The Grand National at Aintree Featuring Liverpool

2 days

from

£139

NEW

Includes

2016

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Liverpool; Entrance into the Grand National, includes Steeplechase tickets (Upgrade to Tatterstalls available from £30)

for

Ladies Day at Royal Ascot Special Event

highlights Friday – We make our way to Liverpool, a vibrant city filled with plenty of shopping opportunities and enjoyable dining experiences. Saturday – Prepare for a day of fast-paced drama, as 40 horses and jockeys line up to race across the famous fences of Aintree. History has been written about legendary runners and riders who have triumphed in the Grand National and today you could be a part of that history.

Steeplechase Tickets - £139 The Steeplechase Enclosure is a great value and informal encloser where you can experience the drama first hand.

Ascot, Grandstand Arena

Liverpool

hotel

Best Western Park Hall Hotel, Chorley An elegant hotel set within 137-acres of stunning Lancashire countryside.

Tattersalls Tickets - £169 This popular enclosure is the largest and most atmospheric enclosure at Aintree. You’ll have access to the Parade Ring & Winner’s Enclosure. Ticket holders also have access to the Aintree Ref: SBGN ROUTE: 2/3 N mound providing views of dates days from s/supp the closing stages of every Fri 08 Apr 2 £139 £15 race.

Includes

Goodwood Festival of Speed World’s Largest Motoring Event

A sell out tour year after year, Ladies Day at Ascot is a luxurious experience that everyone should sample at least once. Style, sophistication and grace provide a glamorous backdrop to one of the world’s most famous Ref: SBRA ROUTE: CALL horse racing venues and a wonderful day had by ladies days from s/supp and gentlemen alike. This year why not make your break dates extra special on our extended 3 day break. Wed 15 Jun 2 £129 £25

highlights of your stay... Friday – Enjoy free time in Wednesday – Arriving Windsor before our return first in London, marvel at home. the sights and sounds this fantastic city has to offer or shop until you drop along the endless high streets. Thursday – Looking fabulous in your best dress (or suit) we make our way to Ascot to revel in today’s Ascot © Mich el e El se unique atmosphere. After placing your bets, collecting your winnings and finishing your champagne we depart for home at approximately 6pm.

3 days

from

ls As co t, mo de

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

£209

Includes

NEW for 2016

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast; 1 glass of fizz Free time in Windsor & London Entrance into Silver Ring *Upgrades are available

hotel

Thatchers Hotel, Surrey

£229

Goodwood Revival Customer Favourite

3 days

from

highlights of your stay... Friday – We depart by coach to Oxford, one of the most charming cities in Britain. Marvel at the city’s grand buildings, visit one of its many museums, stroll along the river or simply relax in a café. Saturday – Today we enjoy a free day at Goodwood for the actionpacked Festival of Speed.

Racing Car at Goodwood

hotel

Holiday Inn, Basingstoke A modern and friendly hotel perfectly situated in the heart of Basingstoke.

Go od wo od © M att An ke rs

Sunday – After breakfast we visit the charming city of Windsor for free time before making our journey home.

Ref: SBGR

ROUTE: CALL

dates

days from s/supp

Fri 24 Jun

Ref: SBRA ROUTE: 2/3 s

3 £229 £40

*Please note that dates are subject to change

days from s/supp

3 £209 £40

2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Oxford & Windsor; Entrance to & Free time at Goodwood Revival

Goodwood Revival

Goodwood Festival of Speed © Photo | Drew Gibson

Hit the tracks for this magnificent motor racing event, bringing together a heart racing mix of cars and motorbikes, from 200mph supercars, F1 racers and 19th century steam powered motors alongside celebrities and the biggest motor sports royalty around the world.

£239

Includes

2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Oxford & Windsor; Entrance to & Free time at the Goodwood festival of Speed

dates

3 days

from

Includes

hotel

Copthorne Hotel, Effingham, Gatwick

Wed 15 Jun na l Gran d Natio

£129

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in London Entrance into Silver Ring (Upgrade to Grandstand available from £54)

Horse Racing at Aintree

Immerse yourself in the enthralling atmosphere of the greatest show on earth! No other event provides as much passion, excitement and drama as the Crabbie’s Grand National Festival and 2016 promises to be a spectacular display of sporting endeavour as the best runners and riders reconvene for one of the most challenging and thrilling events in the sporting calendar.

2 days

from

Join thousands of motoring enthusiasts at Goodwood to rejoice in the most prestigious motor sporting event in the world! Step back in time and celebrate the past in the present as Goodwood brings to life the ferocious era from 1948 – 1966, featuring the pedigree of motor racing’s heritage, wheel-to-wheel racing, famous racing drivers, glamorous ‘grid girls’ and spectacular air-show displays. This magnificent event transports spectators back in time to the petrol-scented, exciting, thrillseeking heyday of British racing.

highlights of your stay... Friday – Arriving in the historic city of Oxford, enjoy free time at one of the most charming cities in Britain. Marvel at the city’s grand buildings, visit one of its many museums, stroll along the river or simply relax in the luxurious Grand Café. Saturday – Today we enjoy the Goodwood Revival.

Pit Stop Girls

hotel

Crowne Plaza, London, Gatwick Airport Bright, stylish rooms and a friendly atmosphere make this the ideal stay

Be as close to the action as you can get, smell the burning rubber as fantastic cars old and new zoom by you along the racetrack as you cheer along with the crowd made up of thousands. Ref: SBGR ROUTE: CALL Sunday – We visit the dates days from s/supp beautiful city of Windsor Fri 09 Sep 3 £239 £40 before making our journey home. *Please note that dates are subject to change

Go od wo od

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

With the world famous Edinburgh Castle forming the illuminated backdrop, the four corners of the globe will join together marking the 2016 Military Tattoo. Don your tartan colours and take to your seat to witness over 900 cast members coming together for a unique, spine-tingling, atmospheric show unlike any other. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We travel to Carlisle, this vibrant city is the perfect place to visit with an everchanging choice of things to see and do. Day 2 –Enjoy free time in the fascinating city of Edinburgh today before we enjoy the wonderful outdoor spectacle; The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Presenting a host of international performers both military and

civilian, the pipes, drums and rousing musical tributes get better year upon year as do the extravaganza of special effects which are all set against the simply amazing Edinburgh Castle. *There will be no evening meal at the hotel tonight so why not try some of the fantastic eateries available in Edinburgh.

Day 3 - Most renowned for being the “marriage capital of the UK”, Gretna Green became famous through a combined accident of history and geography.

£219

3 days

from

Includes 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; 1 night bed & breakfast; Visit to Carlisle; Free time in Edinburgh Entrance to the Edinburgh Tattoo performance; Visit to Gretna Green

Introducing

Premier Theatre Break WeekendS We’re proud to be finally lifting the curtain on our highly anticipated Premium Packages. Make any occasion that extra bit special and upgrade to one of our Theatre Premium packages, staying at a 4* hotel in the centre of London and offering an array of evening performances that are guaranteed to be in the Stalls or Circle so you won’t miss any of the action. Whilst in London, explore its iconic sights and sounds, visit the museums and galleries or have a wander down Oxford Street and shop ‘til you drop on this magical weekend that won’t be easily forgotten.

box office INCLUDES

3/4h

FINAL Curtain call

DURING YOUR STAY

Hotel

Saturday: West End - Enjoy free time in London before our driver whisks you to the hotel for check-in. The evening is then yours to get some dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants London has to offer before making your own way to the theatre to see your chosen show. Sunday: London - Enjoy the morning at leisure in London, a varied and exciting capital city world renowned for its fashion, style and attractions.

Return coach travel 1 night bed and breakfast Evening performance of chosen theatre show Free time in London

Dancing

INTERMISSION

hotels

The Park Hotel ****, Kilmarnock Holiday Inn ***, Glasgow You will either stay at The Park Hotel in Kilmarnock or Holiday Inn, Glasgow both offering a comfortable and relaxing stay.

••••

The hotel will be confirmed four weeks prior to departure and we guarantee that it will be a minimum of 4* located in the centre of London, close to all of the glitz and action this wonderful city has to offer.

Ref: SBED ROUTE: 2/3 N dates

Fri 05 Aug Tue 09 Aug Fri 12 Aug Wed 17 Aug Fri 19 Aug

30 30

Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

days from s/supp

3 3 3 3 3

£219 £219 £219 £219 £219

£40 £40 £40 £40 £40

bILLY eLLIOT

wicked

NEW Motown

Thriller

Sat 30 January

Sat 27 February

Sat 26 March

adult FROM

£199

SEATING

D/C

adult FROM

£199

SEATING

adult FROM

£209

SEATING

adult FROM

£209

PHANTOM OF

SEATING

THE OPERA

Sat 27 February adult FROM

£199

SEATING

Mamma Mia Sat 26 March

adult FROM

£209

SEATING

Charlie & the chocolate factory Sat 30 April

adult FROM

£209

SEATING

S/RC

Jersey Boys Sat 30 April

adult FROM

SEATING

TBC TBC

Seating explained: C - Circle, D/C - Dress Circle, R/C Royal Circle, S - Stalls

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

2 days The Waldorf 5* Luxury in London from

Best Seller

£159

London 4* Mini Break

3 days

from

Afternoon tea Includes at the Waldorf 1 night bed & breakfast; Included

London

Feel like a VIP on this quintessentially delightful weekend of luxury in our remarkable Capital city. highlights of your stay... Sunday – After our arrival we are treated to an indulgent Traditional English Afternoon Tea in the exceptional Waldorf Hilton, an Edwardian Grade II listed building, steeped in English heritage. The evening is then yours; choose to relax in the luxury of your hotel or enjoy all that our wonderful capital city has to offer.

nd on rf Hi lto n, Lo Th e Wal do

32 32

Monday – After breakfast the morning is yours to enjoy and explore London. With Covent Garden just around the corner why not take a stroll around its extensive markets which includes crafts, homeware, fashion and antiques to name just a few things on offer or watch the amazing street performers before we depart for our journey home around 3pm.

en , Co ve nt Ga rd

Lo nd on

Ref:SbPL

ROUTE: CALL

dates

days from s/supp

Sun 07 Feb Sun 20 Mar Sun 24 Apr Sun 12 Jun Sun 21 Aug Sun 25 Sep Sun 16 Oct Sun 06 Nov Sun 18 Dec

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

£159 £159 £159 £159 £159 £159 £159 £159 £159

Includes

Includes 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast;

£60 £60 £60 £60 £60 £60 £60 £60 £60

Spa Break The Ultimate Relaxtation Break

London

Stick the kettle on and crack open the crumpets, we’re about to explore all that is wonderful about our glorious capital city. highlights of your stay... Day 1, 2 & 3 – Over the weekend you can explore as much or as little as you like! London is bursting with attractions, iconic buildings and sparkling events. Experience 360’ panoramic views over the city, meet your favourite celebrity at Madame Tussauds, come face to face with a dinosaur

Lo nd on

at the Natural History Museum or sit back and soak up the sights on a river cruise perfect if you want to catch a unique glimpse of London’s historic buildings like the Tower of London or the Houses of Parliament. NB No attractions are included.

Ref: SBLN ROUTE: CALL dates

days from s/supp

Fri (B/H) 27 May 3 £189 £91 Fri 08 Jul 3 £189 £91 Fri 16 Sep 3 £189 £91

ards Lo nd on Gu

Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

£99

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time to use hotel facilities;

hotel

Located in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, the Copthorne Tara Hotel offers an extremely convenient location, just a 7 minute walk from the High Street Kensington tube station.

2 days

from

Includes

Copthorne Tara, Kensington

hotel

Certificate of Excellence

£239

2 nights’ bed & breakfast;

4 days

from

Free time in Liverpool

Free time in London

Waldorf Hilton Hotel, London Situated on the verdant, tree-lined through-fare of Aldwych, this hotel is one of the most iconic hotels in London and offers a fabulous Covent Garden location in the heart of London’s theatre district.

4* Liverpool Luxury

Back by Popular Demand

Free time in London

Afternoon Tea at the Waldorf Hotel;

£189

Free time at Manchester’s Trafford Centre ©Liverpool

Liverpool is an exciting city with an exhilarating atmosphere, lined with elegant buildings. Most famous for the birth of the Beatles, two world famous football clubs and the Grand National steeple chase and is just waiting to be explored. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Liverpool, a city of this grandeur should not be missed. We enjoy a three nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast stay. Day 2 & 3 - Another two days at leisure to explore the various different areas in Liverpool including; Liverpool Waterfront which is home to the Albert Dock, the famous Liver building and the Tate Modern. Cavern Quarter, as you might expect this quarter encircles Mathew Street which is home to the most famous club in

the world- the Cavern Club. Hope Street Quarter, a beautiful Georgian district which stretches from Liverpool Cathedral along Hope Street to the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. There is also St George’s Quarter, Ropewalks, China Town, Liverpool ONE Shopping district and the Baltic Triangle. Day 4 – After a leisurely breakfast we begin our journey home.

Spa

hotel

Novotel Liverpool Centre Hotel, Liverpool

Stylish and situated close to the Liverpool ONE shopping centre and the Albert Docks this superb 4* hotel is the perfect base for our city stay.

Ref: SBLB dates

Mon 08 Aug

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

4 £239 £75

Perfect for any occasion and offering the 3h hotel ultimate in relaxation, over-indulge on this Best Western Park Hall weekend filled with pampering and retail Hotel, Lancashire therapy because you’re worth it! highlights of your stay... Saturday – Following your local pick-up we travel straight to our hotel for an afternoon of pampering, relaxation and rejuvenation. *Pre-bookable treatments are available

Sunday – After an afternoon of total relaxation you’ll be more than ready for a shopping frenzy, arriving at the intu Trafford Centre unleash your bank card on the endless choice of designer and high street shops.

Treatments... Pedicure - £33 Indulge in a 60 minute pedicure that will leave your feet and toenails feeling fabulous. Back Massage - £35

Set within 140 acres of beautiful wooded countryside and a world away from everyday life. This hotel combines the feel of a modern hotel with the charm of an historical building.

(back neck and shoulder)

Head Massage - £34

(Indian head massage)

Salt Scrub: Body wrap - £50 Body polish - £39 Exfoliate your skin from head to toe, leaving your skin feeling gorgeously moisturised and refreshed.

Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Ref: SBPH dates

Sat 02 Apr Sat 24 Sep

ROUTE: 2/3 n days from s/supp

2 £99 £15 2 £99 £15

33 33

RHS Tatton Park Flower Show

2 days

from

£109

RHS Hampton Court 2 days from Flower Show

highlights... Saturday – We take you to Chester, a medieval walled city bursting with character and diversity. Timber fronted shops line the city centre streets adding to the charm of this area and the many attractions scattered around including Chester Zoo and the wonderful cathedral make this a place for everyone to enjoy.

3434

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

2 days

from

£159

Includes

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Entrance to RHS Tatton Park Flower Show; Free time in Chester

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Windsor; Entry into the Hampton Court Flower Show

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in London; Entry & Free time at Chelsea Flower Show

Tatton Park

This beautiful estate holds its annual RHS Flower Show. The show offers a fresh and unique appeal, bursting with hundreds of different species of flowers, trees and plants it’s a hive of activity and a burst of colour.

£109

Flowers

hotel

Holiday Inn Express, Leigh The hotel boasts bright, stylish and contemporary rooms

Ref: SBft

ROUTE: 2/3 N

dates

days from s/supp

Sat 23 Jul

2 £109 £17

Sunday – After breakfast we make our way to Tatton Park where we attend their RHS flower show. Based in one of the most complete historic estates in over 50 acres of land makes this an ideal place to host the annual show and with hundreds of different species of flowers, trees and plants.

Hampton Court Flower Show is the world’s largest annual flower show. Gardeners will rejoice at the sight, smell and touch all things horticultural. You can enjoy inspiring display gardens and marquees. Get involved in exhibitions, watch demonstrations and learn hints and tips to take back to your own garden, buy gifts and gadgets and sample several tempting catering options- a glorious day out is guaranteed!

highlights... Saturday - We take you to Windsor, crowned by the stunning Windsor Castle it has a wonderful mix of rich history, culture and heritage.

Hampton Court Gardens

hotels

Hilton Reading Crowne Plaza, Gatwick Both hotels will provide you with a warm welcome and a comfortable stay.

Ref: SBHC dates

Sat 09 Jul

ROUTE: CALL days from s/supp

2 £109 £20

Sunday – After breakfast we make our way to Hampton Court Palace where this RHS show is perfectly located in its grounds with a backdrop of the Royal Palace and the River Thames.

Renowned as the most famous flower show in Britain and recognised all over the world the elegant RHS Chelsea Flower Show was originally held in 1862 in Kensington, until later it found its home in the grounds of Chelsea Hospital in 1913. You can expect to capture flourishing displays, a huge array of show gardens that promise to hypnotise and enchant you and flowers that you can’t find anywhere else!

highlights... Wednesday – Departure by coach we head south, once in London you are free to savour the many delights of our Capital city. Thursday – After breakfast we make our way to the grounds of Chelsea Hospital. Enjoy time to wander around the show

2 days

from NEW FOR 2016

Shrewsbury Flower Show

Entrance

‘Flowers, Fireworks and Fun for All the Family’ - Much more than just a flower show you can expect to see grand marquee’s, live music performances, an outstanding garden displays at one of the country’s Premier Flower Shows!

highlights of your stay...

Chelsea Flower Show

Hampton Court

Shrewsbury Flower Show

Chelsea Flower Show

3/4h

hotels

Holiday Inn Windsor Slough Copthorne Effingham, Gatwick

Friday – We take you straight to Telford, one of the UK’s fastest growing and most successful new towns. In the beating heart you can discover a world of shopaholic sophistication packed with all your high-street favourites.

Saturday – Today we visit Shrewsbury Quarry Park for the ultimate day out, the show plays host to some of the top horticulturalists in the country. As well as an exotic and colourful flower displays.

Harrogate Flower Show

Ref: SBCF dates

days from s/supp

Wed 25 May 2 £159 CALL

admiring the exhibits and displays from across the globe. We depart at approximately 6pm for our return journey home.

to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

hotel

Ref:SBFS dates

ROUTE: 2/3 s days from s/supp

Fri 12 Aug

2 days

Southport Flower Show

Southport Flower show continues to flourish as the UK’s largest and longest running independent flower show.

highlights of your stay...

Telford Whitehouse , Wellington

Harrogate

Standing tall as the country’s most prestigious independent show, Harrogate Flower Show features beautiful show gardens, giant vegetable competitions, stunning displays and expert demonstrations offering everything you need for the perfect gardening event.

2 £99 £10

£99

highlights of your stay... Saturday – We head north arriving in Leeds, an exciting city filled with ample shopping opportunities, museums and grand architecture.

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Entrance to Harrogate Flower Show; Free time in Leeds

£99

2 days

from

Includes

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Entrance to Shrewsbury Flower Show; Free time in Telford

Saturday – We travel to Liverpool to explore its many sights, shops and attractions including; the Albert Dock, home to ‘The Beatles Story’, Merseyside Maritime Museum and Tate (not included.) Sunday – We visit Victoria

hotel

The Great Victoria Hotel, Bradford

Sunday – Today we travel Certificate of Excellence to the delightful spa town of Harrogate for their annual flower Ref: SBHF ROUTE: 2/3 n show. Bloomin’ with seeds of dates days from s/supp inspiration you’ll finish the day Sat 23 Apr 2 £99 NIL Sat 17 Sep 2 £99 NIL feeling like Alan Titchmarsh!

1 night, dinner bed & breakfast; Free time in Liverpool; Entry & Free time at Southport Flower Show

hotel

Holiday Inn, Runcorn

Park, home to Southport Flower Show and horticulture excellence. Featuring stunning show gardens, the finest flower and vegetable displays, specialist Ref: SBSF foods and books, celebrity dates guests and much more. Sat 20 Aug

Bluebells at Kew

2 days

from

Includes

Flow er

ROUTE: 2/3 S

Southport Flower Show

Includes

from

You will stay in a minimum three star hotel, where you will be guaranteed a warm and friendly welcome.

£99

ROUTE: 2/3 N

days from s/supp

2 £99 £16

£99

Includes

Kew Orchaids

Kew Gardens

Bluebells and Orchids have long been known to grow in the conservation area at Kew; this time of year is a beautiful time to see the flowers spring into bloom in these wonderful, world famous gardens.

highlights of your stay... Saturday – Arriving at Windsor take a stroll around the many inspiring gardens or witness the colourful spectacle of the Changing of the Guards as they march through the streets. Sunday – Kew Gardens, World famous for its historic glasshouses, vistas and precious

tree specimens and its stunning palace. Kew Gardens comprises of 121 hectares of gardens, where striking Bluebells and Orchids have long been known to grow in the conservation area at Kew and are indicators of British ancient woodland.

to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Windsor; Entrance to Kew Gardens; Portage & welcome drink

hotel

Holiday Inn, Slough

Ref: SBOK dates

Sat 16 Apr Sat 23 Apr

ROUTE: 2/3 S

days from s/supp

2 £99 £15 2 £99 £15

3535

Spring Time Ball Flourish to the Party

NEW for 2016

2 days

from

£129

36 36

NEW for 2016

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Themed entertainment; Free time in Warwick & Stratford-upon-Avon

2 days

from

£129

hotel

Mercure Brandon Hall, Coventry Surrounded by 17 acres of tranquil gardens this 4 star hotel offers a friendly welcome.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref:SBSB dates

ROUTE: 2/3 s days from s/supp

Sun 29 May (BH)2 £129 £20

Monday – We visit Stratford-upon-Avon, home of William Shakespeare this romantic setting is alive with character and antiquity.

Halloween Ball

from NEW for 2016

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Themed entertainment; Free time in Cheltenham, Cirencester & Bourton on the Water

Skills formally invite you to our majestic and magic Masquerade Ball, an evening of intrigue, beauty and elegance infused with friends, 4h hotel sumptuous food and dancing! It promises to be Mercure Gloucester the most decadent party Bowden Hall, Gloucester of the summer! Surrounded by acres of highlights... beautiful grounds, this elegant country house Sunday – Following your boasts modern rooms. pick up we travel to the Regency spa town of Cheltenham, relax in its award-winning gardens or sample an ice cold cocktail in a stylish café or restaurant.This afternoon we arrive at the hotel for an evening of intrigue, put Certificate of Excellence on your mask, take to the dance floor and dance Ref:SBSP ROUTE: 2/3 s the night away. dates days from s/supp Monday – After breakfast Sun 28 Aug(BH)2 £129 £20 we visit Cirencester, the undeclared Capital of the unique places ooze with Cotswolds and Bourton character and elegance. on the Water, these two

2 days

If you Dare to Scare

Includes...

Mask

highlights... Sunday – We travel to Warwick, founded on the flourishing banks of the River Avon, the medieval core of the town is transformed in the new inflorescence light. This afternoon we arrive at our hotel with time to get ready for the evening’s festivities steeped in spring traditions, from decorated maypoles to the crowning of the May Queen.

Managers Favourite

Includes...

Maypole Dancing

In May the sun shines as emerald fields come alive with pink and yellow blossoms. Traditionally it marks the beginning of summer and since the Romans who celebrated the festival of Flora, it has been known as a time which brings love and romance to all. Tonight join Skills for our first Spring Ball and let’s celebrate the beginning of summer together.

Summer Time Ball

£139

Railways & Waterways Of Yorkshire

Includes...

2 days

from

£99

Delights of Shropshire Severn Valley Railway Ft Shrewsbury NEW for

Includes...

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Themed evening; Free time in Richmond; Free time in Newcastle

2 days

from

2016

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Canal cruise including cream tea; Train journey on the Worth Valley Railway

£99

Includes... 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Severn Valley Railway journey; Free time in Shrewsbury

Halloween

Creep along for a night of ghosts, ghouls and ghastly goingson as we unleash our inner monsters for an extravagant evening of goose-bumps and fun!

highlights... Sunday – We arrive in Richmond, here you’ll find a mysterious Norman castle, in amidst the strange Georgian architecture and eerie cobbled streets which create the perfect setting for a spooky tale. We then continue to our hotel to get ready for a wicked evening complete with a three-course meal, a disco and dancing! Monday – After breakfast you will have free time to explore Newcastle, as one of the UK’s oldest Cities it offers bizarre backdrops for ghastly encounters of dark legends about ghostly headless horsemen, the infamous witchcraft trials of 1649 and human sacrifice.

Skipton Canal Ways

Forget rush hour and sit back, relax and enjoy taking the beautiful surroundings on the water and on the tracks of the UK’s most enjoyable journeys.

hotel

Vermont Hotel, Newcastle

Combining old character with contemporary elegance and four-star luxury, the Vermont Hotel is the perfect base to discover Newcastle.

hotel

The Victoria Hotel, Bradford

Certificate of Excellence

Ref:SBHB dates

Sun 30 Oct

Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

ROUTE: 2/3 N

days from s/supp

2 £139 £10

Sunday – After breakfast we enjoy a journey on the Worth Valley Railway from Keighley to Oxenhope. This five mile branch line was used in the 1972 film’ The Railway Children’, epitomising our weekend.

hotel

The Telford Whitehouse Hotel The Telford Whitehouse Hotel boasts extensive health and leisure facilities. Guests staying at the hotel can enjoy the swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, solarium and steam room.

Shrewsbury

highlights of your stay...

Saturday – We take you to the delightful Yorkshire town of Skipton, here we board our canal river cruise, sit back and relax as we slowly drift through the idyllic Yorkshire Dales whilst enjoying a delicious cream tea. We then continue for our one night stay.

Prepare for this journey back through the ages as we step on-board a vintage steam-hauled train for a classic trip of a lifetime as we pass along riverside towns and unspoilt countryside.

Combining old character with elegance and luxury, this landmark hotel is the perfect location to discover the many bars, shops and attractions of the city.

Worth Valley Railway

Severn Valley

highlights of your stay...

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SBRW ROUTE: 2/3 N dates

Sat 07 May Sat 02 Jul Sat 20 Aug

days from s/supp

2 £99 £15 2 £99 £15 2 £99 £15

Saturday – We travel to the Severn Valley Railway to join our vintage steam-hauled train. From here our nostalgic journey meanders its way from Kidderminster to the riverside town of Bridgnorth, passing close to the River Severn - most

of which can only be seen from our seats! Sunday – After breakfast we depart to Shrewsbury, one of the UK’s finest medieval market towns before we continue our journey home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SBSV dates

Sat 16 Apr Sat 02 Jul Sat 22 Oct

ROUTE: call days from s/supp

2 £99 £15 2 £99 £15 2 £99 £15

Settle to Carlisle Railway

One of the UK’s most stunning Railway’s

2 days

from

£119

Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park

2015 Includes... sELL oUT 1 night dinner, bed & tOUR breakfast;

2 days

from

A masterpiece of Victorian engineering, join us for an extraordinary journey that will capture your heart along the most stunning landscapes in the North of England. Be dazzled as we cut through beautiful scenery and breathtaking viaducts, before scaling the heights of the Mallerstang valley.

highlights of your stay...

Saturday – Departure by coach we make our way to Settle for a journey on the famous Settle to Carlisle Railway line. This 73-mile journey passes through 14 tunnels and over 20 Viaducts including the Ribblehead viaduct which has 24 arches and stands 104 feet above the moor.

Sunday – After breakfast we visit Carlisle, a cultured city located between Scotland and the Lake District. There are plenty of attractions, art galleries and museums to visit as well as Carlisle Castle

(Not included.)

*N.B. - The journey may not be a steam train.

hotel

breakfast; Entrance to Bletchley Park; Guided tour of Bletchley Park; Entrance to Imperial War Museum Duxford

Imperial War Museum - Duxford

An enlightening weekend full of the history from the code breaking at Bletchley Park which is said to have helped shorten World War II to a fascinating insight into both world wars at the Imperial War Museum.

Gretna Hall Hotel, Gretna

Originally built in 1710 as a manor house, the Gretna Hall hotel boasts a highlights of your great location, charm and Saturday - Departure by character. coach to the Imperial War Museum Duxford. The Museum holds a unique coverage of conflicts, especially those involving Britain and the Commonwealth from the First World War to the present day. We then make our way to our hotel for Ref:SBCR ROUTE: call a 1 night dinner, bed and dates days from s/supp breakfast stay. Sat 27 Feb 2 £119 £15 Sat 23 Apr Sat 21 May Sat 11 Jun Sat 23 Jul Sat 20 Aug Sat 08 Oct Sat 22 Oct

2 2 2 2 2 2 2

£119 £119 £119 £119 £119 £119 £119

continental europe

2015 sELL oUT Includes... tOUR 1 night dinner, bed &

Tea/coffee & shortbread on arrival; Settle to Carlisle Railway Journey*; Free time to explore Carlisle

Ribblehead Viaduct, Settle to Carlisle

£99

stay... Sunday - After breakfast we enjoy a visit to Bletchley Park. Explore the iconic WW2 Codebreaking Huts and blocks and marvel at the astonishing achievements of the Codebreakers whose work is said to have helped shorten the war by two years.

£15 £15 £15 £15 £15 £15 £15

hotel

Holiday Inn, Hemel Hempstead Holiday Inn Hemel Hempstead hotel combines excellent facilities with a warm and friendly welcome.

A holiday with Skills means crossing the continent hassle free. With over 14 new destinations to choose from including historical Berlin, scenic and enchanting Best of Bavaria & It’s Captivating Castles and a Battlefields tour with specialist guide alongside customer favourites such as Croatia and Treasures of Tuscany and Lake Garda. Make 2016 truly unforgettable.

contents EUROPE

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SBBP dates

Sat 20 Feb Sat 19 Mar Sat 14 May Sat 02 July

ROUTE: call days from s/supp

2 2 2 2

£99 £99 £99 £99

£15 £15 £15 £15

Austria All Inclusive Austria NEW Mountain’s in Flames Festival Andre Rieu in Vienna Belgium NEW Delightful Belgium NEW The Ypres Salient Battlefields Croatia Croatia: Poreč & the Istrian Riviera

53 53 52 56 55

France Paris - The City of Lights NEW The Loire Valley: Chateau’s & Wine NEW Rocamadour & the Picturesque Dordogne NEW Menton Lemon Festival The French Riviera featuring Cannes, Nice & Monaco

58 47 46 45 45

Germany NEW Best of Bavaria & It’s Captivating Castles NEW Berlin

51 50

Mini Cruises Mini Cruises

Holland NEW Amsterdam 57 Three Countries Taster - Valkenburg, Aachen & Liege 59 Italy Lake Como & The Bernina Railway NEW Sorrento & The Amalfi Coast NEW Ancient Rome & The Vatican City Diano Marina ft the Italian Riviera’s Treasures of Tuscany Lake Garda

49 40 41 48 48 49

Ireland Belfast: Legend of the Titanic & The Giant’s Causeway 61 Killarney & the Ring of Kerry 61 NEW West Coast Gems of the Emerald Isle 62 St Patrick’s Day in Ireland 63 63 NEW 4* Dublin City Break Luxembourg Luxembourg Spain

Benidorm Costa Brava ft Barcelona NEW

Switzerland NEW Swiss Alps ft The Matterhorn & Mont Blanc 54 Swiss Dream Railways 54

43 44

rli sle Se ttl e to Ca

38 38

Call to to book book on on 08456 08456 66 66 55 55 44 44 9am-10pm 9am-10pm or or visit visit www.skills.co.uk www.skills.co.uk Call

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Sorrento and The Amalfi Coast Deemed by UNESCO as an outstanding example of a Mediterranean landscape, coastal mountains plunge into the clear sea in a stunning vertical scene of picturesque towns and lush forests. Sorrento and The Amalfi Coast has to be seen to be believed, winding paths caught between pastel-coloured houses set into the steep rocks add to the sheer beauty of this truly unique coast.

12 days

from

Includes...

NEW for 2016

Sorrento

highlights of your stay... Day 1 – After our ferry sailing to, we continue to our overnight hotel. Day 2-3 – After breakfast we drive to our second overnight hotel. The next day we arrive in our resort. Day 4 – We enjoy a guided city tour of Sorrento, the land of colours, with a local guide. Famed for its sea cliffs, the town’s steep slopes look out over the waters of the Gulf of Naples. Admire the Villa Comunale, Cathedral and the Correale Museum. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Day 5 – Experience the Amalfi dream coast as we drive from Sorrento to Positano, a picturesque town on the sea and a popular place for painters and poets. (Optional £15pp must be booked at the time of booking)

After lunch, we board a local coach with a local driver and travel along the coastal road to

£899

Amalfi. The city rises impressively up on the slopes of Monte Ceriti. Enjoy the sights of the city before we stop for a wine tasting at a vineyard that produces one of the higest wine classifications, we then carry on to Ravello. Alternatively you may enjoy a day at leisure. Day 6 – We visit Pompeii and Vesuvius with a tour guide. Pompeii was founded in the 6th Century BC but the city was buried alive after the eruption of Vesuvius. Explore the Roman baths and theatre – or at least the excavated remains, and the famous volcano Mount Vesuvius surrounded by lava fields. Day 7 – Relax in your seaside resort of Massa Lubrense, one of the most enchanting and scenic areas of the world. Day 8 – Join us for an optional day to the island of Capri, the stunning landscapes of this island with its beautiful grottoes, created

by the surf and weathering of the limestone are an absolute must see. While here we take the boat for a trip from Sorrento to Capri, after arriving in Marina Grande enjoy free time to explore this magnificent island including a visit to the famous Villa San Michele, the old town of Capri or the Gardens of Augustus, a small botanical complex with panoramic terraces that offer a breathtaking view of the south side of the island

Naples is also home to the Margherita Pizza – spend lunch in one of the famous pizzerias before walking through the old town with its narrow, often stair-like streets to round off this interesting day. Day 10 – Leave Sorrento and start our return journey to our first overnight hotel. Day 11-12 – After breakfast we make our way to the second overnight hotel. In the morning we return to Calais for our return ferry to Dover & home.

Alternatively you are welcome to stay in the resort. Day 9 – After breakfast we visit Naples with a city tour guide. During the tour you will experience the bustling Italian port city. With nearly 3000 years of turbulent history, wander around the royal palace “Palazza Reale” the former residence of the Neapolitan kings and “Castle Nuovo” a magnificent cathedral.

*NB not suitable for people with walking difficulties.

- £10pp must be booked at the time of booking.

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast enroute; 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast en-route; 7 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Guided city tour of Sorrento; Guided tour of Pompeii; Optional excursion to Capri with an included boat ride - £10pp Guided city tour of Naples; Optional Amalfi coast excursion - £15pp

hotel

Hotel Piccolo Paradiso, Piazza Madonna Della Lobra

Offering panoramic views along the Sorrento Peninsula and a sun terrace leading directly to Punta Lagno beach, Hotel Piccolo Paradiso is an excellent choice for our stay.

Ref: SCSO Pompeii

dates

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

Wed 11 May 12 £899 £20

Ancient Rome and The Vatican City

NEW for

To the Medieval Mountain Region of Abruzzo

©Coliseum

highlights of your stay... Day 1-2 – We travel to Dover for the ferry crossing to we then continue to our first overnight hotel. After breakfast we travel to our second overnight hotel. Day 3 – After breakfast we continue to Rome. Day 4 – We begin with a leisurely walk through the historical centre of Rome on a guided tour with stops along the way at Castel Sant’ Angela, the Sant’ Angela bridge, the famous Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish steps. Day 5 – Enjoy another amazing guided tour as we visit The Vatican City or ‘Citta del Vaticano.’ Vatican City, is the smallest city in the world, and home to around 800 residents. We also visit the Sistine Chapel, where you can marvel at the art treasures from Leonardi da Vinci a once in a lifetime experience.

2016

12 days

from

£989

Includes... Whilst the vibrant life between art, culture and history can Return ferry sailing; be found in the “Seven hills: city of Rome” The eternal city 2 nights’ bed & breakfast intertwines a myriad of fountains, historic churches, iconic en-route; buildings and the world-famous Vatican City. You will find 2 nights’ dinner, bed & Abruzzo magnificently built into the mountains between the breakfast en-route; cliffs of Gran Sasso. Golden beaches of the Adriatic, olive 3 nights’ dinner, bed & groves, vineyards and rolling fields cover soft hills crowned by breakfast in Rome; medieval towns that are rich in heritage and arts. Discover one 4 night’s dinner, bed & breakfast in Abruzzo; of the last silent paradises of Italy, which pampers its visitors Guided tour of Rome; with culinary delights. Guided tour of the Eternal

Day 6 – Our guide takes us for a tour around the spectacular Colosseum, the most renowned symbol of Rome all over the world, (entrance into the Colosseum is not included).

The Roman Forum was the central area of the city around which ancient Rome was developed and the Pizza Venezia. We also walk to the top of the terrace for a breath taking view overlooking the eternal city. Alternatively you can choose to take the lift to the top of the terrace but this will be at customers own cost. Later today we travel to Abruzzo for a four night stay. Day 7 – Explore Abruzzo today at your own leisure, best known for its dramatic mountain scenery it has retained an ancient medieval look. With many sights to see your only decision is where to start!

Day 8 – We visit Lanciano, one of the most beautiful cities in the region, in the days of the Romans it was famous for its markets, with traders from all over the Mediterranean selling their goods. Your guided tour includes the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Ponte, the Old Quarter of Lancianovecchia and the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. We travel to the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere, which overlooks the coastline. Day 9 – Arriving at Civitella del Tronto, this town sits in a unique location, dominated by one of the largest fortresses in Europe. The town runs around the hill at the foot of a fortress. Later we visit Atri, one of the most interesting and historic small towns in the province of Teramo. Atri was founded about a thousand years before Christ and has

numerous and important works of art, including the Cathedral of the Assumption with the most beautiful series of paintings from the Renaissance. Day 10-11-12 – After breakfast we begin our journey home stopping over in two overnight hotels.

Ab ru zzo

city; Guided tour of Lanciano & the coast; Excursions to Civitella del Tronto and Atri

hotels

Hotel in Rome will be the Best Western Arthotel Noba OR Hotel GH Fleming. Hotel in Abruzzo is Hotel Montesilvano These hotels are threestar minimum standard and will be confirmed at least four weeks before your departure.

Ref: SCRO

ROUTE: 4+ S

dates

days from s/supp

Wed 01 Jun

12 £989 £225

ua re , Ro me St Pe te r’s Sq

40 40

Call Callto tobook bookon on08456 0845666 6655 5544 449am-10pm 9am-10pmor orvisit visitwww.skills.co.uk www.skills.co.uk

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Croatia: Poreč & the Istrian Riviera

12 days

from

2015 sELL oUT tOUR

Includes...

Rovinj houses

This simply breath-taking tour takes you around some of the best spots in Croatia, spend seven nights on the historically beautiful Istrian Riviera in Porec, considered to be the ‘Tuscany of the Adriatic’ and join us for a journey of exploration never to be forgotten highlights of your stay... Day 1-2 – We travel south to board our ferry. En-route to our resort we spend two nights at two overnight hotels (one night is bed and breakfast) (one night is dinner, bed and breakfast) Day 3 – We continue our journey arriving in Poreč, Croatia for a seven night dinner, bed and breakfast stay. Day 4 – Today is your day to do as much or as little as you like. Explore the local area of Poreč, take a stroll through the shade of the pine trees that spread their shadows on promenades into the old centre of this beautiful town or familiarise

yourself with its parks and beaches. Day 5 – Today we enjoy time in Slovenia where we take a guided tour around the Lipica Horses Stud Farm. We then make our way to the Postojnska Caves, the best-known cave in the world and the most visited tourist attraction in Slovenia. Discover a web of tunnels and passages that lead to the astonishing Karst monuments making this a mesmerising sight that everyone should experience. Day 6 – We make our way to Pula. There is so much to see and do in this wonderful city. Pula is to Croatia what Rome is to Italy;

its main attraction is the huge amphitheatre – the temple of Augustus and the forum, as well as the Franciscan monastery. Day 7 – Today we visit Rovinj and Lim Fjord. Rovinj is one of the most photographed coasts in Croatia, it is a stunning place with pastel coloured houses clustered along winding streets and topped by a Venetian bell tower. We also visit Lim Fjord one of the most beautiful natural resources of the Istrian peninsula. Day 8 – We visit Opatija an elegant destination that lies at the centre of the Riviera with the longest

tradition of tourism in Croatia. Remaining in perfect harmony with nature and home to well kept gardens, beaches and fountains creating a stunning back drop for our visit. Day 9 –Today is another day for you to relax and enjoy the resort’s local area. Maybe spend the day at the beach or enjoy a little shopping. Day 10-12 - We bid a fond farewell to beautiful Croatia and retrace our footsteps back to our overnight hotels and home. *NB. The above days & itinerary are subject to change.

Benidorm

12 days

from

NEW for

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en route; 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast en-route; 7 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Guided tour of Lipica horses stud farm & Postojnska caves Excursions to Rovinj & Lim Fjord, Pula & Opatija

4h Croatia coastline

£799

hotel

Hotel Laguna Park Porec, Croatia

This 4 star resort is set in the midst of landscaped parks near to the beach and just a short walk will lead you into the town centre which is rich in culture and heritage

Ref: SCCR

ROUTE: 4+ S

dates

days from s/supp

Thu 08 Sep

12 £799 £90

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

2016

It’s time for you to get out and explore the sun, sea, sand and timeless charms of Benidorm. The perfect place to appreciate the ultimate relaxation along miles of golden beaches, sun-kissed landscapes, first-class food, charismatic locals and a rich culture and vibrant history. On this relaxing break we also visit stunning Alicante and Valencia. highlights of your stay... 715AD. Spend your time browsing the shops, museums or explore the town’s old town and castle ruins intriguingly only accessible through a tunnel carved from the rock. Day 5 – Today we travel to Valencia; few cities are able to harmoniously combine an exquisite, charming past dating to 138BC with avant-garde buildings from the new millennium. Afterwards we visit the Lladro porcelain factory, the perfect opportunity to buy some gifts. Day 6-7 - These next two days are yours to revel in Benidorm’s seaside charms. Bask on miles of golden beaches and crystal clear waters

Includes... Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast en-route; 7 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast in resort; Excursions to Guadalest, Alicante, Altea & Valencia; Free time in resort; Included visit to Lladro porcelain factory

Benidorm © Lunam

Day 1-2-3 – We take you to Dover for your ferry crossing. During the next two days we will be stopping at two overnight hotels before we arrive at our main hotel in central Benidorm on day 3. Day 4 – We visit the precariously perched hilltop town of Guadalest, occupying one of the most stunning positions in Spain it has been declared a ‘Monument of Historical and Artistic value.’ Surrounded by grand Aitana mountains the town gives magnificent views across the valley carved out by the river from which the village takes its name. Guadalest, was originally a strategic military stronghold, dating back to

£639

or stroll along its promenade. Originally a fishing town enjoy a paella feast, explore the bluedomed 18th Century Jaime Parish Church and picturesque alleyways in its historic centre and pick up some souvenirs in the main shopping streets. Or explore a little deeper and you may stumble across the filming location of ITV’s hit comedy series ‘Benidorm!’ Day 8 – We enjoy the day in Alicante, this dynamic and attractive city holds a treasure trove of Spanish culture and historical sights. You don’t want to miss strolling through the old town and climbing to the castle of

Santa Barbara where you can enjoy stunning views of the city. Or visit St Mary’s church, built over three centuries ago. Day 9 – Spend the morning in the hustle and bustle of the largest street market in the Costa Brava, held in Altea near the new town. Look out for costume jewellery, hand-embroidered tablecloths, Spanish pottery and everything in-between! This afternoon enjoy the delights of the picturesque old town. Day 10-11-12 – We retrace our footsteps back through Europe towards our overnight hotels and then drive home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

hotel

Hotel Poseiden Resort, Benidorm

Set 383 yards from the Beach, Poseidon Resort has 2 outdoor swimming pools and spacious gardens.

Ref: SCBN

ROUTE: 4+ S

dates

days from s/supp

Mon 25 Jan

12 £639 £170

Costa Brava & Barcelona

9 days

from

£509

Includes... Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en route; 6 nights’ half board in resort; Includes a welcome drink & wine with evening meals; Excursions to Tossa de Mar, Barcelona & Cadaques; Free time to enjoy Calella Optional excursion to Monserrat - €10pp

3h Barcelona

Calella

Renowned for its friendly inhabitants, relaxed lifestyles, cuisine, vibrant nightlife and world famous folk laws and festivities, the Costa Brava is arguably the prettiest of Spain’s Costas. Made up of rugged cliffs and secluded coves, which give way to fishing villages and seaside towns, amongst it all are the long beaches that have been attracting holidaymakers here since the fifties. highlights of your stay... Day 1 - Departure by coach to Dover, we across the Channel and continue our journey to our overnight hotel for one night bed and breakfast. Day 2 - After breakfast we travel to our resort- Calella for six nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast. Day 3 - Enjoy a morning excursion to Tossa de Mar, a typically Catalan town, which has bags of atmosphere, thanks to its old town. The Vila Vella, as it’s known, is all cobbled streets and traditional houses – there’s even an ancient castle. Plus you’ve got not one

but two big sandy beaches to hop between. Day 4 - Enjoy a day at leisure in our resort of Calella, a two-sided town where a traditional old quarter vies for attention with a long stretch of golden sand and a bustling town centre. All over there’s a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Day 5 - We take you to Barcelona to taste Spanish City life. Catalonia’s trendy capital doesn’t do anything by halves, with its surreal Gaudi architecture, fashionable shops, and cobbled Gothic quarter.

Day 6 - Why not join us on our optional excursion today to Monserrat - €10pp. For many visitors a trip to Montserrat is the highlight of their visit. A spectacularly beautiful Benedictine monk mountain retreat, not only is Montserrat Monastery of significant religious importance but the natural beauty surrounding the monastery is simply breathtaking.

Bookable with driver. Minimum numbers required.

Day 7 - Today we visit Cadaqués, the bay of which forms the

hotel

Hotel Kaktus Playa, Calella

Offering bright and comfortable bedrooms, a warm welcome and within walking distance of the beach. This is the perfect hotel for our stay.

Catalonians largest natural harbour. Declared the ‘gem’ amongst all other fishing villages along the Costa Brava, but perhaps most famous for its links with world famous artists including Picasso and André Derain to name a few, all of whom have produced work based here. Certificate of Excellence Day 8 - We bid our resort and hotel a fond farewell before we make our way to our return overnight hotel Ref: SCSS ROUTE: 4+ S for one night bed and breakfast. dates days from s/supp Day 9 - We take the ferry and Mon 11 Jul 9 £509 £170 continue home. Fri 21 Oct 9 £509 £170

*NB: The itinerary days could change

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Menton Lemon Festival

7 days

from

£609

Menton the “Cité des Includes... Citrons” grows the Return ferry sailing; juiciest oranges and 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; lemons in the most 4 nights’ dinner, bed & dazzling colours. It is in resort; believed that the first breakfast Excursion to Nice; lemon to be planted Entrance to the Lemon here was by Eve, and festival, seated tickets to NEW in 1934 the “Fête du Golden Fruit Parade & for entrance to Bioves Gardens; 2016 Citron” – The Lemon Guided tour of the Fragonard Festival - The most unique festival in the world Perfumeur began. Spectacular floral processions are organized with citrus-themed floats, glistening confetti and dancers who all join to salute Citrus Limonia. highlights of your stay... Day 1-2 – We take our ferry crossing from Dover and travel to our overnight hotel for bed and breakfast. The next day we continue to our main hotel for a four night stay. Day 3 – Enjoy the day exploring your surroundings. Pirates originally founded Menton, regarded as the ‘Pearl of France’ and warrenlike alleys in its medieval old town still bear their names. Enjoy a walk along the beach and the old port, navigate towards the exotic gardens of Menton or explore the Old Town and its network of stone streets. Day 4 – Every year Menton forms the stage for an

immense celebration and today we enjoy the highlight of this tour at the famous Lemon Festival. Witness magnificent floats parade along the “Promenade du Soleil” on the sea front while Brazilian bands fill the air with lively music. Day 5 – We visit Nice, delve into its fashionable boutiques, stop off for some fresh fish in one of their top restaurants or climb to the top of Castle Hill for a stunning view of the city. Day 6 – Enjoy a guided tour of Fragonard Perfumeur, before we travel to our overnight hotel. Day 7 – We retrace our steps backhome.

Dancing ladies

hotel

Quality Menton Méditerranée Menton Within walking distance from the sea and situated in the town centre.

Ref: SCLF dates

Fri 19 Feb

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

7 £609 £165

The French Riviera Featuring Cannes, Nice & Monaco

7 days

from

£599

The French Riviera: Côte Includes... d’Azur (blue coast) is Return ferry sailing; situated to the east point 2 nights’ bed & breakfast where the Alps meet the en-route; Mediterranean. One of 4 nights’, dinner bed & the world’s most famous breakfast in resort; Excursion to Nice, Monaco & coastlines, the area Monte carlo; has stunning beaches, charming towns which Visit to Fragonards Perfumeur in Eze Cannes are culturally rich offering everything from art and museums to boutique shops. It’s no surprise that the French Riviera is one of the most popular areas in France to visit.

highlights of your stay... Day 1 - We reach Dover for the outward sailing. We continue to our overnight hotel. Day 2 – After breakfast we head to the French Riviera and our resort of Cannes. Day 3 – Spend today relaxing, once a small fishing village Cannes is now a social hub for the rich and glamorous. Explore the beauty and architecture of Le Suquet along cobbled streets and enjoy its breathtaking views or choose a cafe and enjoy some celebrity spotting. Day 4 - Arriving in Nice; the biggest resort on the French Riviera, the city has masses to offer from its historic quarters to its

beautiful long seafront, the Promenade des Anglais. Nice is a modern, creative and innovative city, with a perfect balance between its heritage and the modern dynamic destination it is now. Day 5 – We race over to Monaco and Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo is a unique independent state that has been ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 13th Century. Monaco is a place famed for glamour and wealth, home to the iconic Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Rally. We also visit Fragonards Perfumeur for a look around. Day 6-7 – We retrace our footsteps home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Monaco

hotel

Hotel Des Orangers, Cannes Located on the French Riviera, overlooking the Bay of Cannes, the Hôtel des Orangers is in the heart of the old town.

Ref: SCCF dates

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

Sun 26 Jun 7 £599 £125

Rocamadour & The Picturesque Dordogne

6 days

from

NEW for 2016

Dordogne

Rocamadour

One of the most breathtaking destinations in France, prepare to be captivated as it steals your heart. Discover the medieval town of Sarlat, the magnificent Château de Castelnaud, picturesque countryside and prehistoric caves, Rocamadour is said to be blessed by the Gods. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We catch the ferry across the Channel and continue to our overnight hotel. Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Orléans, where we visit the gothic Catholic Cathedral, most famous for its association with Joan of Arc, a French heroine. Its twin towers dominate the city while inside stain glass windows shine in the daylight embellishing her story. Afterwards we travel to our main hotel. Day 3 – Périgueux, a town steeped in magnificent Roman Empire heritage. Stroll down a majestic side street, walking from square to square where you will encounter half-timbered houses or

explore its Gallo-Roman Museum Vesunna, Vesunna was the town’s Roman goddess. We then visit the city of Sarlat for a guided tour, untouched by time this city holds picturesque cobbled streets and Old Quarters. We also take you to Les Eyzies de Tayac – named as the ‘World Capital of Pre-historic Times’ – Discover its wealth of history including the Vézère Valley filled with mineral deposits of the Prehistoric remains amongst a beautiful natural environment

(entrances are at customers own cost.)

Day 4 – We are treated to a full day excursion to the Dordogne Valley. Our first stop is at Château

de Castelnaud (admission at own cost.) Offering magnificent views of the medieval village of La RoqueGageac, this fortress now displays the art of warfare from the Middle Ages. Inside, you will find a unique collection of arms while outside, you will find reconstructions of war machines. We then travel to La Roque-Gageac for a boat trip on the river and later you have time to stroll through the picturesque streets of the village. Day 5 – Experience the highlight of this tour in the pilgrimage town of Rocamadour where we enjoy a spectacular guided tour on the city tour train. This Holy

city magnificently clings to steep, narrow cliffs and was built on the site of a shrine to Madonna, (Madonna is the name given to a work of art, statue or monument of the Virgin Mary meaning ‘My Lady’ in Italian.) A Magnificent emerald natural park surrounds Rocamadour like a beautiful blanket and below the sea glistens with electrifying blues. The jewel of this city is kept in the Chapel of Miracles. Afterward we retrace our steps to our overnight hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. Day 6 – After breakfast we retrace our steps home.

£619

The Loire Valley: Château’s & Wine

Includes... 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast en-route; 3 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast in resort; Visit Orléans & Orléans Cathedral; Excursion to Périgueux & Les Eyzies; Guided tour of Sarlat; Excursion to Dordogne Valley; Historic River Boat trip; Excursion to Rocamadour, City tour on the city tour train

hotel

Manoir du Grande Vignoble,

This former 18thcentury mansion boasts a lovely outdoor heated swimming pool and is decorated in an elegant rustic style.

Ref: SCDD dates

Sun 14 Aug

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

6 £619 £100

6 days

from

NEW for 2016

Loire Valley - Jardin

Old-town villages, rich vineyards and beautiful lush valleys are sprinkled with an array of the most extravagant, fairytale Château’s and fortresses found in France. Guarding more than 100 years of astonishingly rich architectural, artistic and agrarian treasures, if its romantic splendour you’re looking for, the Loire Valley is the perfect place to explore.

Includes... 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast en-route; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast at main hotel; Loire wine tasting; Entrance to the castle & gardens of Villandry; River boat cruise; Entrance to Castle Chenonceau; Admission to Moat Castle, Azay Le Rideau and Royal Castle of Blois with selfguided tour; Excursion to Orléans

“Son et Lumiere” – £20pp Every summer the Royal Amboise Château is transformed into a sparkling setting for a spectacular light and sound show. As colourful images fill the building accompanied by music to portray the life, pomp and splendour of the French courts during François I’s reign. - Must be booked at the time of booking. Day 3 – Your morning is at leisure. This afternoon we visit the Château de Villandry, with its unique furnishings, décor and atmosphere, the Villandry castle is a living testimony of French

heritage. Originally built during the Renaissance and used as a medieval fortress it has since been transformed into an enchanting estate surrounded by lush woods and gardens. Day 4 – First we are treated to a riverboat cruise along the Cher, before visiting the Château de Chenonceau, property of the Crown, then a Royal Residence, It’s elegant design, wealth of collections and furnishing have all been made by exceptional women in history. We then visit the romantic moat castle – Le Château d’Azay le Rideau, standing in the

centre of beautiful parklands, this 16th Century castle is an exceptional Renaissance castle flowing with elegance and grace. Day 5 – We visit the Château Royal de Blois, formally a Royal residence of several French kings, it is also the place where Joan of Arc went in 1429 to be blessed by the Archbishop of Reims. Now classified as Museum of France, its filled with more than 35,000 works of art. We then return to our overnight hotel for one night. Day 6 – We retrace our footsteps home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

hotel

Le Grand Hotel de Tours, France This early 20th-century hotel offers Art Decostyle guest rooms.

highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Travelling south to Dover for our ferry crossing, we then continue to the overnight hotel for one night. Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Touraine where we stop at a Vineyard for a Loire wine tasting, we then travel to our main hotel. Upon arrival we enjoy a typical French Kir (French cocktail made with blackcurrant liqueur) before dinner; the rest of the evening is free time or join us for an optional excursion.

£649

Ref: SCLV dates

Tue 12 Jul

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

6 £649 £110

Diano Marina Featuring the Italian & French Riviera’s

This sweeping shore curves between’s Italy’s and France’s blue waters resonte with style, charm and exude an old world elegance. Perhaps most impressively the narrow arc of the Riviera is backed by the Maritime Alps, providing an inspiring backdrop perfect for the romance and glamour seeping from every corner

highlights of your stay... Day 1- After our ferry sailing we make our way to our overnight hotel. Day 2- After breakfast we continue our journey to Diano Marina. Day 3- Enjoy a morning in San Remo. Once a quaint fishing village, now an elegant tourist resort known worldwide for its impressive heritage, breathtaking landscape and is one of Italy’s finest treasures. Day 4- Day at leisure in our resort. Wander along the sandy beach or take time to relax on the panoramic sun terrace. Venture into the characteristic old town to explore the shops and restaurants. Day 5- Monaco, the tiny

state lies along the French Riviera and has been an independent state since the 13th century. What it lacks in size it makes up for in glitz and glamour. Day 6- An optional full day excursion takes us to the Italian fishing village of Portifino - €20pp famous for its picturesque harbour. Delightful colourwashed houses stand proud against a backdrop of glistening water,

bookable with driver minimum numbers apply.

Day 7- We visit Menton which lies off the FrenchItalian border in an idyllic location with the Alps Maritimes Mountains behind. This afternoon we visit the ancient village

9 days

from

£599

Treasures of Tuscany One of the most beautiful regions in Italy

9 days

from

£599

Lake Garda With an included breathtaking Lake tour

9 days

from

£579

Lake Como And the Bernina Railway

9 days

from

£789

Includes...

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 6 nights’, dinner bed & breakfast in resort; Welcome Drink; 1 Ligurian candlelit dinner; Excursions to Monaco, Menton & San Remo; Optional excursion to Portifino €20pp

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 6 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Welcome drink, Quarter wine & mineral water with dinner each evening; 1 traditional Tuscan evening; Excursion to Florence, Pisa, Lucca & Siena

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 6 night’s dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Lake Tour; Excursions to Venice, Passo Pordoi & Ortisei

2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 6 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Boat cruise on Lake Como with visit to Bellagio; Ride on Bernina Railway Line; Full day excursion to Milan Lugano (Switzerland), Locarno & Ascona(on Lake Maggiore) with tour guide

hotel

Hotel Palace, Diano Marina.

Situated directly in front of the sandy beach, and just a few minutes’ walk along the promenade takes you to the old town.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SCWR dates

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

Sun 12 Jun 9 £599 £120 Seaview Supplement £51pp

of Eze offering fabulous views over St Jean-Cap Ferrat Day 8- Today we begin our return journey back to our overnight hotel. Day 9- After breakfast we continue our journey homewards.

Florence

With medieval villages sitting on emerald hilltops, covered in vineyards producing some of the best wines in the world. The romantic slopes of Tuscany have long been the inspiration of artists and poets such as Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and Dante Alighieri.

highlights of your stay... Day 1- We travel across the Channel and continue to our overnight hotel. Day 2- After breakfast we drive to Tuscany and our resort of Montecatini for 6 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast. We arrive to a welcome drink. Day 3- We take you to one of Tuscany’s most popular towns, Florence. Laden with cultural attractions and charm, medieval streets depict a thousand tales and museums and churches safeguard the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance art. Day 4- First we visit Pisa, home to one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the renowned Leaning Tower. We also visit the Roman City of

Lucca, surrounded by its medieval wall, wander the traffic free alleyways and squares where one of Italy’s greatest composers Puccini sought inspiration. Day 5- Montecatini Terme, the biggest spa town in Italy, has plenty to keep you amused, allowing you to do as much or as little as you please during this day at leisure. Day 6- We enjoy another day at leisure to enjoy the beautiful surrounding of our resort, alternatively join us on our optional excursion to the Isle of Elba - £45pp six miles off the Tuscan coast to be booked at the time of booking your holiday. Minimum numbers required.

hotel

Hotel Biondi, Montecatini Terme

Located on one of the most elegant boulevards of Montecatini, near the centre of the thermal baths and Parco Demaniale.

Ref: SCTU dates

Sat 14 May Sat 02 Jul Sat 27 Aug

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

9 £599 £110 9 £599 £110 9 £599 £110

Day 7- Driving through the beautiful Tuscan countryside, we pass hilltop towns of the wine growing region Chianti, to Siena, the home of Italy’s most famous square. Day 8-9 - After breakfast we retrace our steps home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Lake Garda, Riva Del Garda

Set at the foothills of the Alps, Italy’s very own Lake District is a treasure trove of tastes and experiences. Sample delicious Italian cuisine, explore enchanting towns, lounge on tranquil beaches or simply lose yourself in the crystal blue waters of its largest lake; the spectacular Lake Garda. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Arriving at Dover, we sail across to France and continue to our overnight hotel for one night. Day 2 – We continue to our resort. Day 3 – Enjoy breathtaking scenery on a tour of beautiful Lake Garda surrounded by mountains and charming lakeside villages. Day 4 – Arrive at Venice, as we cross the Venetian Lagoon, we take you to the city for a short orientation before the day is yours to explore. Highlights of this unique city include St Mark’s Cathedral and the famous Rialto Bridge.

Not suitable for wheelchairs.

Day 5 – The day is yours, head to the town tower which is located in the heart of Riva Del Garda. At the top of the tower is the “Anzolim” (“little angel”) weather vane a symbol of Riva del Garda. Day 6 – A full day tour of the Dolomites, the most spectacular part of the Alps. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery as we drive north of the lake towards the famous mountains making our way upto 2,000m at Passo Pordoi where you will have time for lunch. An optional cable-car ride will give you the most incredible views of the area. A visit to the picturesque Tyrolean town of Ortisei and

Lake Como, Menaggio

hotel

Hotel La Perla Perfectly positioned close to the Riva del Garda’s lake shore, this hotel offers bright and comfortable rooms.

Ref: SCLG dates

Sat 23 Jul Sat 08 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

9 £599 £120 9 £579 £125

photo stops along the way will also be included. Day 7 – Another day at leisure to completely relax or explore. Day 8-9 – We leave our resort taking cherished memories with us and retrace our steps home.

An epitome of elegance, Lake Como is known for its stately gardens and exquisite villas. Often thought of as the prettiest of Italy’s northern lakes, the southern end of Lake Como forks into two, creating an extraordinary setting for the picturesque town of Bellagio. highlights of your stay... Day 1-2 – We travel to Dover where we sail across the Channel and continue to our overnight hotel for one night. We then travel to our main resort. Day 3 – We enjoy a cruise on Lake Como to Bellagio: “Pearl of the Lake”, Bellagio’s world class shops and restaurants provide the perfect place to soak up the lake’s scenery. The village is characterized by centuryold buildings, stone lanes and picturesque cobbled stairways. Day 4 – We take a ride on one of the best train journeys in the world the Bernina Express. Departing from Poschiavo, sit back

and take in the spectacular views as the train winds its way gently through glistening glaciers and alpine landscapes to St Moritz. Day 5 – Spend today exploring your resort, overflowing lush mountains form the backdrop to this pretty town, where it meets the western shores of the Lake Como. Some of the most beautiful 17th Century villas can be found here. Day 6 - A full day to Milan taking in the most important sights, such as the mighty Gothic Duomo, Italy’s premier Opera House and La Scala. Day 7 – Enjoy time in Lugano, in Switzerland,

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

hotel

Hotel Bazzoni Located in Tremezzo centre, Hotel Bazzoni offers panoramic views over Lake Como and is just a few steps from a bus stop providing links with all lakeside towns.

Ref: SCLC dates

Thu 24 Mar Sat 24 Sep

ROUTE: 4+ S

days from s/supp

9 £789 £150 9 £789 £150

Locarno and Ascona on Lake Maggiore with our tour guide who will take us to the best places. Day 8-9 – We retrace our steps through Europe and back home.

NB the itinerary days are subject to change

Berlin

7 days

from

NEW for 2016

Includes... Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 4 nights’ bed & breakfast in resort; Guided tour & free time in Berlin; Half day excursion to Potsdam; Included visit to Reichstag

Brandonburg Tor

Berlin’s combination of glamour and grit is nothing short of addictive, the city embraces, inspires and mesmerises anyone who visits. Alive with vibrant culture, cutting-edge architecture, controversial history, fabulous food, sky bars and chic restaurants Berlin is as irresistible as it is unpredictable. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – From Dover we sail across the Channel before travelling to our overnight hotel. Day 2 – After breakfast we hit the road and drive to Berlin. Day 3 – Experience first-hand the subliminal and historical highlights of Berlin on a full day guided tour. Together we visit some of the most iconic landmarks and places of interest that will captivate enlighten and entice you including Checkpoint Charlie, best known as the border crossing during the Cold War, dare you cross the checkpoint? The magnificent green-domed Berlin Cathedral, Brandenburger Tor, one of Berlin’s

most important monuments – a former symbol of a divided city - But now a symbol of unity. And the Berlin Wall – it’s also the perfect way to discover all that this extraordinary city has to offer. Day 4 – Arriving at Potsdam, more than a 1000 years old Potsdam is renowned for its captivating castles and exquisite landscapes. It was formally the residence of the Prussian Kings and the German Kaisers until 1918, significantly it was the place where the treaty to the end of the war was signed. Potsdam offers a breath taking panorama of culture and history. Afterwards, enjoy free time

in Berlin. Jam-packed with an abundance of significant historical landmarks. Day 5 – Enjoy a free morning, if you don’t want to venture too far, Alexanderplatz offers a wealth of amazing attractions. Amongst the sights to look out for is the 365 meter TV tower, Berlin’s highest construction topped by a globe with a rotating viewing platform. Catch the U-Bahn and visit the iconic Museum Island, including the Atles Museum (old museum), the Neues Museum (new museum) and the National History Museum, or head to West Berlin to experience a different

feel of the city and stroll along the East Side Gallery – an open air gallery created on the Berlin wall a touching tribute to its victims. This afternoon we visit the Reichstag, seat of the German Parliament, towering above the Berlin skyline noticeable by its accessible glass dome sitting proudly on top offering an incomparable view of Berlin’s Government corner. Day 6-7 – We retrace our steps back through Europe to our overnight hotel. After breakfast we sail across the channel and continue our journey home.

£479

hotel

Holiday Inn, Berlin Centre, Alexanderplatz Located in the heart of Berlin, the Holiday Inn is an eight-minute walk from Alexanderplatz Station for S-Bahn and U-Bahn links across the city and offers stunning views across the square including the Soviet-era TV tower.

Best of Bavaria & It’s Captivating Castles “I want to remain an eternal mystery.” King Ludwig II of Bavaria was a shy dreamer who created an ideal fantasy world perched on a spectacular mountain top. The fairytale King’s Castles of Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Herrenchiemsee continue to enchant us, we invite you to join us on a magical journey to Bavaria and into King Ludwig’s II dreamy world. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – From Dover we arrive in Europe and continue to our overnight hotel. Day 2 – After breakfast we depart for our main hotel. Day 3 – Enjoy a full day excursion through the 5-Lakes Region, taking the scenic route along Lake Ammer, we take you to the historical village of Unterdießen. Here you can visit the Baroque church of Marienmuenster with its wonderful ceiling paintings. We board a boat and sail on the lake, past St. Alban, along the scenic banks of Riederau before reaching Herrsching. On a clear day you might even catch a glimpse of the Alps, and the famous Zugspitze Mountain. Day 4 – Nymphenburg Palace, the extensive Baroque complex was built as a summer residence for the Bavarian sovereigns. Inside you can admire the castles ornate interior and the splendid “Beauty Room”, walk a little further and you will enter the Birth room of King Ludwig II filled with treasured artefacts belonging to King Ludwig I. The rest of the day is yours. Day 5 – We drive to the city of Munich, renowned for its buildings graced with magnificent architecture and captivating history. Experience the hustle and bustle

of the unique atmosphere of the famous Viktualienmarkt or indulge in a spot of shopping along one of the most famous shopping streets; Maximilian Street. We later reconvene at Hofbräuhaus for an early evening meal, experience a true Bavarian evening including music, traditional entertainment and a real taste of Munich’s food and beer. Day 6 – Arriving in the Allgäu region we visit Neuschwanstein Castle, the ‘fairytale castle’ built for King Ludwig II. The setting could not be more idyllic, situated deep in the Alps perfectly placed on top of a hill. Neuschwanstein is visited by 1.3 million people annually and overlooks the Hohenschwangau Valley surrounded by acres of magnificent natural beauty. The castle can be reached by a half hour walk up a steep hill or by horse and carriage or shuttle bus

NEW for 2016

(Horse and carriage/Shuttle Bus and admission all at customers own cost)

Afterwards we finish this amazing day at Füssen where you can take a stroll in the historic old town and admire the famous wood carvings. Day 7-8 – Travel back to our overnight hotel before continuing home.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SCBE dates

Fri 29 Apr

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

8 days

from

Includes... Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 5 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Scenic drive to Lake Ammer; Boat trip on the lake to Herrsching; Excursion to Nymphenburg Palace; Bavarian evening including music, traditional entertainment and food & beer in Munich; Excursion to Fussen & Neuschwanstein Castle

Lake Region

hotel

Tulip Inn Alp Style, Munich The hotel is the ideal starting point for eventfilled days in beautiful Bavaria.

Ref: SCBA

ROUTE: 4+ S

dates

days from s/supp

Sun 24 Jul

7 £479 £135

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

£569

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

8 £569 £125

André Rieu in Vienna

7 days

from

NEW

destination

Vienna

Vienna Palace

Andre Rieu Concert

André Rieu, a Dutch violinist and conductor, has turned classical and waltz music into a worldwide concert sensation with dramatic musical masterpieces and engaging performances. Accompanied with an orchestra made up of 120 people you are sure to be dazzled as André puts on a show of a lifetime. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We drive south for our ferry crossing across the Channel and make our way to our overnight hotel. Day 2 – After breakfast we continue our journey, arriving in Vienna just in time for our evening meal. Day 3 – Enjoy a full day in the majestic Vienna Woods offering many sights to experience. Here we visit the Abbey at ‘Heiligenkreuz’ known for its Gregorian chants, which are sung at midday by the monks. Continue, late afternoon to,

the spa town of Baden, in the southern Vienna Woods, famous for its pretty Biedermeier houses. We then venture to the picturesque wine growing village of Gumpoldskirchen in the early evening where we enjoy a typical local meal, accompanied by local wine and traditional music in a ‘Heuriger’ (Wine Inn.) Day 4 – After breakfast we join our city guide who will show us some of the highlights of Vienna: travel around the famous ‘Ringstrasse’ home to the magnificent Opera House, the Burg Theatre and

the Houses of Parliament. After an early dinner at the hotel, the highlight of your stay takes place - the unforgettable André Rieu with the Johann Strauss Orchestra in Vienna’s stunning ‘Rathaus’ or City Hall. Be charmed by the sounds of Viennese waltzes and operettas. Day 5 – Today we visit Burgenland. Known as the Land of the Sun, this is the most easterly province in Austria and typically the sunniest part. We visit the wine village of Rust and enjoy a traditional Pannonia

lunch. Enjoy a tour of a local wine cellar, followed by some wine tasting! This afternoon we enjoy a charming horse-drawn ride through the picturesque vineyards, before relaxing on a short boat cruise along the tranquil Lake Neusiedl. Day 6 – After breakfast we leave Vienna behind, with happy memories, as we return to our overnight hotel. Day 7 – We continue our journey across the Channel and make our way home.

£599

All Inclusive Austrian Tyrol

Includes...

2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Evening at a Heuriger in Gumpoldskirchen with dinner & traditional music; Entrance to the Abbey of Heiligenkreuz; Visit to Baden; Guided city tour of Vienna; Excursion to Burgenland; Visit to a wine cellar with tasting; Horse drawn carriage ride; Boat cruise on Lake Neusiedl; Pannonian lunch & guided walk in Rust; Ticket for the André Rieu Concert (cat 4) *Ticket upgrades available

hotel

Parkhotel Klosterneuburg, Klosterneuburg Just steps from the Danube River, this 4-star designer hotel is 1700 ft from Klosterneuburg Monastery and 1000 ft from the Essl Museum. The centre of Vienna can be quickly reached by public transportation.

Ref: SCAR dates

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

Wed 25 May 7 £599 £90

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

8 days

from

£565

Mountains in Flames Spectacular Special Event

Includes...

Zell am See

Snow-capped mountains, picturesque valleys, rugged peaks, spectacular glaciers - it’s all here to enjoy: Tyrol, ‘The Land in the Mountains’ is a truly unique destination offering stunning scenic beauty and friendly people. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Our ferry crosses to France and we continue to our overnight hotel. Day 2 – Travel to Austria arriving at our hotel for a five night inclusive stay. Day 3 – We collect our packed lunch as we prepare for free time in the regional capital, Innsbruck, home to the famous Golden Roof and Imperial Court Palace. Later we visit the Bergisel ski-jump. Towering high above Innsbruck this new skijump is a sight to behold. Day 4 - Capture the beautiful surroundings in Kirchberg, take a short walk to the tranquil lake and relax by the water’s edge or browse amongst

the shops and cafes. Lunch, afternoon tea and other drinks will be available at the hotel today. Day 5 – We take you to Krimml Waterfalls. Marvel at these spectacular waterfalls before we continue along the famous Gerlos Pass and descend into the Ziller Valley. Day 6 – We arrive in Zell am See, nestled on the shores of lovely Lake Zell, creating the perfect setting in which to enjoy your packed lunch. Afterwards, wander along the lake shore. Day 7-8 – We retrace our footsteps home.

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route 5 nights’ all-inclusive in resort includes breakfast, lunch, dinner & packed lunch on excursion days; Afternoon tea/coffee with cake between 3pm - 4pm; Unlimited house wine, beer & soft drinks between 10:00 – 22:00; Free use of leisure facilities; Excursion to Innsbruck, Bergisel ski jump, Kirchberg, Krimml Waterfalls & Ziller Valley,

hotel

Hotel Kroneck, Kirchberg

This 4 star family hotel is located away from the bustle of the town. You will discover Tyrolean warmth, traditional hospitality and creative cuisine.

Ref: SCAA dates

Fri 22 Apr Sat 29 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

8 £565 £40 8 £565 £35

8 days

from

NEW Includes... for 2016

Experience a summer festival like no other, at an altitude of 1, 520m. Watch the ‘Mountains in Flames’ light up the Austrian Alps as dazzling bonfires are lit amongst the peaks of the mountain tops. highlights of your stay... Day 1-2 – From Dover we sail before stopping for one night en-route. After breakfast we continue our journey to Austria. Day 3 – We start in the village of Kramsach, where you will enjoy a fascinating visit to the Kramsach Farming Museum and see a variety of farmhouses from different alpine valleys. Afterwards we head to the smallest town in the Tyrol, Rattenberg, famed for its delicate glass production. You will have the opportunity to visit the Kisslinger glass blowing factory where you can see glass ornaments made by hand. Day 4 – We visit Innsbruck. See the picturesque Old Town and the iconic Golden roof. We return to the hotel

£569

for dinner. Day 5 – Enjoy today at leisure. Explore the resort before we leave this evening for the ascent on Hartkaiserbahn, the funicular which climbs up to 1520m onto the top of the Hartkaiser Mountain offering exceptional views across the valley. At the top we enjoy a BBQ and live music whilst the lighting of bonfires commences

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 5 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Excursions to Kramsach Farming Museum, Rattenburg & Innsbruck; Ride on Hartkaiserbahn; Evening BBQ & live music; Boat cruise on Lake Aachen

hotel

Hotel Sun Valley, Auffach Centrally located the Hotel Sun Valley offers you a cosy place to stay in bright, traditionally furnished rooms, and is the ideal place for our trip.

(suitable clothing is recommended.)

Day 6 – Sit back and relax as you drift along Lake Aachen from Pertisau to Scholastika Certificate of Excellence on our included boat cruise. Tranquil waters provide a Ref: SCMF ROUTE: 4+ S turquoise backdrop to the dates days from s/supp mountains. Tue 14 Jun 8 £569 £90 Day 7-8 – We retrace our footsteps across Europe.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

5454

Swiss Alps Featuring The Matterhorn & Mont Blanc

8 days

from

NEW for 2016

Lake Geneva Alps

Come along and experience this magnificent region of classic Swiss scenery – high peaks, valleys and glistening lakes. “Lord of the Alps” Mont-Blanc is the high point, literally, of any trip. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – After our ferry sailing across the channel we continue to our overnight hotel. Day 2 – We travel to our main hotel in Leysin. Day 3 – We take the shuttle train from Täsch to Zermatt, a famous Alpine town at the foot of the Matterhorn. Enjoy its many restaurants and cafés before we return back to Täsch. Day 4 – We travel along the Mont Blanc Express from Martigny to Le Chatelard on the French border before we jump back on the coach to visit Chamonix, a spectacular high mountain town surrounded by breath taking Alpine views of snow and ice. Discover the grotto, complete with magnificent ice sculptures or hop

aboard the Aiguille du Midi cable car (not included) for an unbelievable view of Mont-Blanc with the Swiss and Italian Alps. Where else in the world can you see three countries at once! Day 5 – We drive to Montreux for free time. After this we board the GoldenPass Express to Gstaad, here you have enough time to enjoy the glamorous chalet village, famous shopping street and renowned cafés. Day 6 – This afternoon we visit the picturesque town of Lausanne, surrounded by vineyard-covered slopes with Lake Geneva at its feet. We visit Geneva, home of the luxury watch industry. Day 7-8 – We retrace our steps home.

£629

Swiss Dream Railway Journeys Featuring Liechtenstein

8 days

from

£699

Includes...

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 5 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast in resort; Shuttle train: Täsch to Zermatt; Montblanc Express: Martigny - Le Chatelard/French border; Visit to Chamonix, Montreux; GoldenPass Express: Montreux – Gstaad; Visits to Gstaad, Lausanne & Geneva

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 5 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast & a welcome drink; Visit St.Moritz, Liechtenstein & Chur; Ride on the Bernina Express & Arosa Train Inclusive card to ride cable car in Davos

hotel

Hotel Central Residence, Leysin OR Mercure Classic, Leysin Your hotel will be confirmed four weeks before you travel.

Ref: SCMM dates

Sun 27 Mar

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

8 £629 £120

Bernina Express Railway

Stunning scenery and spectacular views are enough to take your breath away as we travel by rail through the heart of the Swiss Alps. This tour offers discovery around every corner and a once in a lifetime trip! highlights of your stay... Day 1 - At Dover we sail to Europe and continue to our overnight hotel. Day 2 - After breakfast we continue to Switzerland and our resort of Davos. Day 3 - Today we take the journey of a lifetime on the Bernina Express. We head to St Moritz where we have time to explore. Day 4 - Liechtenstein - this microstate is located on the River Rhine between Switzerland and Austria. We enjoy a guided country coach tour before enjoying an afternoon at leisure in our resort of Davos. Day 5 - This afternoon we enjoy the Arosa train from Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland; here we board the Rhaetian Railway. This journey takes you deep into the magnificent mountains,

around many curves and over deep bridges to the famous ski resort of Arosa. Day 6 - We board our regional train and follow the Glacier Express line from Andermatt to Chur. This incredible journey, one of the most famous in the world, will keep you transfixed as we pass the Oberalp Pass and the Rhine Gorge

hotel

Club Hotel Davos, Davos, Switzerland Located in the heart of Davos, this hotel offers a first class service.

NB. this is a regional train and we must change trains in Disentis.

Day 7 - We leave Switzerland and return overnight hotel. Day 8 - After breakfast we begin our journey home. N.B Itinerary days subject to change

Ref: SCSR dates

Sat 28 May Sat 24 Sep

Call to to book book on on 08456 08456 66 66 55 55 44 44 9am-10pm 9am-10pm or or book book online online at at www.skills.co.uk www.skills.co.uk Call

ROUTE: 4+ s days from s/supp

8 £699 £130 8 £699 £130

The Ypres Salient Battlefields

NEW for 2016

‘Lest We Forget’ inspired by an immeasurable appreciation for the sacrifice of past generations, we are joined by a specialist Battlefields Tour Guide across Belgium for an unforgettable and moving experience as we unravel the noble stories and discover the incredible people and places behind the events that determined the course of our history.

Our Tour Guide has served in both the Welsh Guards & The Queens Own Yeomanry (A Territorial Army, Cavalry Regiment in the role of armoured reconnaissance - like the National Guard). Altogether he has had 27 years’ experience in the military including the Civil War in Cyprus, two tours of Northern Ireland & the Falklands War. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We begin our journey joined by an expert Battlefield Tour Guide who will provide you with a wonderful insight into what you will be experiencing throughout your tour. Once at Dover we cross the Channel and travel to our hotel, where your evening is spent at leisure. Day 2 – Today we take you to visit several battlegrounds and memorials, including Essex Farm (Advanced Dressing Station and John McCrae’s poem “In Flanders Fields”), Pilckem Ridge, where the first Gas Attack took place in 1915, the Langemarck German Cemetery, passing by Vancouver Corner where The Brooding Soldier Memorial stands and the New Zealand War Memorial at Gravenstafel. We will then explore the Battle of Passchendaele. The soldiers who fought at Passchendaele also called it the ‘Battle of Mud’. Few battles encapsulate

World War One better than this one. We visit Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest cemetery for Commonwealth Forces in the world. Enjoy lunch at Polygon Wood and visit the cemetery there before making our way to Zonnebeke and the Memorial Museum of Passchendaele 1917. An excellent museum where you will get a comprehensive overview of the First World War in the region from excellent displays of historic objects and life like dioramas, together with photo and film footage. You will also visit its unique Dugout Experience where you will discover communication and dressing posts, headquarters and sleeping-accommodation used in the war. This afternoon we return to our hotel for an early supper before visiting the Menin Gate to attend the emotional Last Post Ceremony where you will hear the haunting sound of The Last Post

which has been played every evening since July 1928. Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Sanctuary Wood and the Hill 62 memorial. We then make our way to Hill 60. From there we go to Kemmel. Kemmel Hill was a key objective of the German offensive of April 1918. We visit a set of excavated German trenches and drive along the Messines Ridge. During our tour we will also visit the Bayernwald German Trenches, Spanbroekmolen – Lone Tree Crater/Pool of Peace, The Christmas Truce 1914, Hyde Park Corner Memorial & Cemetery at Plugstreet, the Irish Peace Park, New Zealand Memorial and the Messines Ridge British Cemetery before returning to our hotel. Day 4 – Following this humbling experience we travel to Calais to join the ferry and continue back home.

4 days

from

£289

Includes... Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ bed & breakfast; Expert Battlefield tour guide; Excursions and entrances as stated

hotel

Hotel Damier Kortrijk, Belgium

Hotel Damier dates from 1769 and features an elegant historic façade. It is situated on the Grote Markt in Kortrijk with plenty of restaurants within walking distance and is perfect for this historic break.

Ty ne Co t

re mo ny La st Po st Ce

Ty ne Co t

Call Call to to book book on on 08456 08456 66 66 55 55 44 44 9am-10pm 9am-10pm or or book book online online at at www.skills.co.uk www.skills.co.uk

Ref: SCBT dates

Thu 11 Aug

ROUTE: 4+ s days from s/supp

4 £289 £72

5555

Delightful Belgium

4 days

from

NEW for 2016

£275

Amsterdam

4 days

from

NEW for

Includes...

2016

Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Full day in Bruges; Excursion to Ghent & The Liefmans Brewery; Evening meal at Petegem Castle

Ghent

Bruges

hotel

Don’t be fooled by its size! Belgium is a European hotspot with 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, over 200 museums, a vibrant theatrical and artistic style, 2,000 chocolate shops and glorious food there is something for everyone! Let yourself be captivated by the country that painter Rene Magritte and art nouveau master Victor Horta called home. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Travelling south to Dover we board our ferry and sail to France. We then continue our journey to our hotel for 3 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast. Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Bruges. Discover this ‘fairytale’ city, showcasing cobbled lanes and dreamy canals that intertwine with traditional market squares lined with soaring towers and historic

churches. Day 3 – Half day to Ghent. One of Europe’s best kept secrets, this city has managed to preserve its medieval charm. During the afternoon we return to Oudenaarde. Famous for its fruit beers, we take a tour around the Liefmans Brewery where you can pour and sample the unique offerings from this important Belgian beer dynasty. This evening we enjoy a farewell

meal at the beautiful Petegem Castle. Day 4 – We bid a fond farewell and retrace our footsteps home.

The Leopold Hotel combines elegance with a welcoming and friendly service, located on the Scheldt and within walking distance to the city centre

Gh ent Ca st le

Ref: SCBL dates

Br uges - Ho rse dr ive n ca b

Be lgi um ch oc olates

Fri 06 May Tue 23 Aug

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

4 £275 £85 4 £275 £85

Includes... Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ bed & breakfast; Free time in Amsterdam; Optional excursion to Volendam - £6pp

Leopold Hotel Oudenaarde, Belgium Amsterdam

Welcome to the ‘City of Bikes,’ with more bikes than people, picturesque and colourful houses, cafes and shops all stand tall along winding canals and idyllic bridges. An array of historic buildings and beautiful parks makes Amsterdam one of the greatest and most romantic small cities in the world entwining remarkable history with modern urban flair. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Following our departure by coach we travel south for our ferry sailing. We then continue our journey to Amsterdam. Day 2-3 – Offering over 50 museums and home to a variety of cultural highlights there is so much for you to discover in Amsterdam. Gentle canals make the perfect backdrop for exploring the Jordan and Rembrandtplein Square bursting with charm and street entertainers. Wander a little further and you can discover the Van Gogh Museum boasting

a sensational collection of original work, the Hermitage Amsterdam, Rijksmuseum and the compelling Anne Frank’s House. Take a canal tour and discover the historical canal district, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011, or stop off at the Artis Zoo. (Please note: No excursions are included)

Alternatively join us on Day 3 for an optional excursion to Volendam to the traditional Cheese and Clog making factory

Simonehoeve Cheese Farm and Clog Factory - £6pp – The Klomp family are waiting to welcome you, in traditional dress into their converted barn which creates an inviting old-world atmosphere. Here we learn all about how cheese and wooden shoes are made followed by free tasting and a delicious piece of cake and coffee. Day 4 – We wave goodbye to the bikes as we re-board our coach for our return journey home.

£279

hotel

Best Western Apollo Museum Hotel, Amsterdam Situated in a grand building next to the Rijksmuseum, the Apollo Museum hotel is located in the most exclusive shopping street. The Van Gogh Museum, Vondelpark and the historic city centre are all within walking distance.

Please note* There is no restaurant at the hotel.

Bi ke

Ref: scam dates

Am ste rd am at nig ht

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Fri 11 Mar

ROUTE: 4+ n days from s/supp

4 £279 £108

Paris - The City of Lights

4 days

from

£209

Welcome to the “City of Lights” or “City of Love.” Paris is certainly both and has always been considered one of the most romantic cities in the world. Whether it’s a riverside vista that takes in the Seine, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, or the view of elegant buildings and mansard roofs from a hotel room window - it doesn’t take much to convince anyone that Paris is one of the most beautiful cities on earth. highlights of your stay... Day 1 - Departure by coach we sail across the Channel and continue our journey into Paris. Day 2 - We enjoy a morning tour of Paris- by coach! Our driver will whisk you around for an introductory tour of the city and its iconic sights - the perfect way to find your bearings! We then offer free time in Paris or an optional cruise down the River Seine. We also have optional evening excursions for you to enjoy Paris by night.

Seine River Cruise €15pp Take to the water and absorb the breathtaking scenery and illustrious sights (bookable with

driver).

Paris by night: May Only €10pp Re-discover the sights of Paris as they glow more beautiful than ever during the night (bookable

with driver).

Versailles Fountains £25pp In the summer, exceptional things take place in the palace grounds of Versailles - the

night fountain shows are a mesmerising display of light.

(Must book at the time of booking)

Day 3 - We spend the morning at leisure in Paris, with a host of great attractions including the Eiffel Tower, time will be well spent. This afternoon we enjoy an excursion to the Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur an incredible piece of architecture made from gleaming white travertine stone. Standing proudly at the top of well kept gardens, the 19th century

Roman Catholic Church is located at the highest point in the city (130 metres) in Montmartre; an area which has inspired many of the world’s famous artists including Monet, Van Gogh and Picasso.

Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ bed & breakfast; Coach tour of Paris; Free time in Paris; Excursion to Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur; Optional excursions as stated

Return ferry sailing; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Aachen, 3-countries viewing point & Maastricht; Free time in Liege & Valkenburg

hotel

This spacious and contemporary hotel is located in a leafy setting on the shores of Creteil Lake. Offering direct access to Paris just 20 minutes away via metro line 8.

N.B. May not be suitable for those with walking difficulties.

Day 4 - We re-board the coach for our return journey home.

£299

Includes...

Novotel Creteil Le Lac, Paris Eiffel Tower, Paris

5 days

from

Includes...

3h Paris Carousel

Three Countries Taster Valkenburg, Aachen & Liege

Ref: SCPA dates

Fri 06 May Fri 05 Aug Fri 09 Sep

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

4 £209 £75 4 £209 £75 4 £209 £75

Aachen, Three Country Viewing Point

Compare the sights and sounds of these three compelling countries; Belgium’s oldest city, Liege, beautiful Aachen in Germany, and enchanting Valkenburg - Holland, as we discover their unique culture and history. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Arriving at Dover we board our ferry to France. Then continue to our hotel in Valkenburg for 4 nights. Day 2 – We take you to Aachen in Germany, renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and aura. We then visit Drielandenpunt, or 3-countries viewing point, the highest part of the Netherlands marking the spot where it joins Belgium and Germany. It offers spectacular, panoramic views. Afterwards we visit Maastricht, one of the oldest cities in Holland; enclosed by city walls this is a charming place to explore. Day 3 – Spend today wandering around Valkenburg. Enjoy the

graceful castle, charismatic grottos and amazing 3h hotel scenery. Hotel Walram, Day 4 – Enjoy free time Valkenburg in Liege, Belgium. The A comfortable, modern birthplace of Emperor and cosy hotel. Charlemagne (Charles the Great), Liege is quirky, unique and houses an incredible wealth of history. Or join us for our optional cruise. Maastricht to Liege River Cruise £15pp Sit back as you sail past the city including iconic sights such as the Certificate of Excellence Bonnefanten Museum, the Gouvernement and the St. ROUTE: 4+ S Pietersberg. (Bookable at the Ref: SCTC

time of booking.)

Day 5 – Bon voyage as we return home.

dates

Mon 27 Jun Mon 03 Oct

days from s/supp

5 £299 £35 5 £299 £35

Luxembourg

4 days

from

NEW for 2016

£269

Includes... Return ferry sailing; Welcome drink; Porterage in and out of resort; Guided walking tour of Vianden; Excursion to Luxembourg City

Luxembourg City

We wish to welcome you with a very warm “Moien” in Luxembourgish! to a place of dramatic beauty filled with rolling forested hills above medieval castles, zigzagging streets leading to its grand squares and fairy-tale heritage buildings. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – Set sail for France. Once across the channel we continue to our hotel in Vianden, Luxembourg. Day 2 – Prepare to be captivated in Vianden, by narrow and paved lanes on a guided walking tour around the splendid gothic churches, protected by towers of the small medieval town and dominated by the magnificent castle (castle

entrance not included.)

Your afternoon is then at leisure. Day 3 – We travel to Luxembourg City. Displaying a captivating contrast of old and new and small enough to explore on foot.

Alternatively enjoy a little time in Luxembourg in the morning and then join us for an optional excursion to Bernard Massard for some wine tasting. Bernard Massard Wine Tasting £10pp – “If wine is an art, then we are passionately devoted to it.” Come with us to discover the secrets behind wines while enjoying a relaxing experience on the banks of the Moselle. (Must be

booked at the time of booking).

Day 4 – We set sail once again and retrace our footsteps home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Vianden

hotel

Grand Hotel De Vianden, Luxembourg This charming hotel is ideally situated for an enjoyable stay in the picturesque town of Vianden.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SCLU dates

Mon 20 Jun Mon 29 Aug

ROUTE: 4+ S days from s/supp

4 £269 £35 4 £269 £35

Mini Cruises

3 days

from

Amsterdam

Includes...

Bruges

highlights of your stay... Friday – We board our cruise ferry. After settling into your cabin you are free to enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board. Saturday – Arriving early morning in Rotterdam, we

disembark and travel to Amsterdam. This evening we return to the cruise ferry. Sunday – Arriving early morning in Hull, we disembark and make our journey home.

Keukenhof Gardens

dates

days from s/supp

Fri 12 February 3 £109 £35 Fri 25 March 3 £129 £45 Fri 15 April 3 £129 £45 Onboard meals £45pp (2 x breakfast + 2 x evening meals) Outside cabin £22 pp Low Birth Supplement £18pp *Prices are per person based on two people sharing a two berth (lower/ upper bunk) inside cabin with en-suite.

Includes...

p&o CRUISE Return P&O Ferry sailing; FERRY 2 nights’ accommodationon board; Excursion & entrance to Keukenhof

A Medieval Masterpiece- Bruges is a step back in time with a modern twist. Renowned for luxurious chocolate Ref: SCMC ROUTE: 3 day days from s/supp and intricate lace, in every direction sits a quaint shop to dates discover. Fri 04 March 3 £109 £35 Fri 08 April

highlights of your stay... Friday – We travel to Hull and board our cruise ferry. You are then free to enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board. Saturday – Early disembark, we visit the medieval city

Amsterdam

3 £129 £45

Onboard meals £45pp

of Bruges. This evening we (2 x breakfast + 2 x evening meals) Outside cabin £22 pp return to the cruise ship to Low Birth Supplement £18pp enjoy another evening of entertainment as we sail home. *Prices are per person based on two people sharing a two berth (lower/ Sunday – Arriving early morning in Hull, we disembark upper bunk) inside cabin with en-suite. and travel home.

Includes

Includes...

NEW DFDS Return DFDS Ferry sailing; CRUISE 2 nights’ accommodation on FERRY board; Excursion to Amsterdam *Please note there will be no Skills representative on this tour.

Discover the City of bikes, idyllicly set in a paradise of winding Keukenhof Gardens in bloom is not to be missed. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the gardens are Ref: SCMC ROUTE: 3 day rivers and colourful houses on a mini-cruise. This is the perfect break to share with friends, family or that special someone. Ref: SCMC ROUTE: 3 day a true celebration of spring dates days from s/supp

highlights of your stay...

Fri 01 April

Friday – Arriving in Hull we board our cruise ferry. Later you are free to enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board. Saturday - Arriving early morning in Rotterdam, we

Onboard meals £45pp (2 x breakfast + 2 x evening meals) Outside cabin £22 pp Low Birth Supplement £18pp

60 60 60

disembark for the highlight of this tour. Wander through the endless springtime displays in the superb Keukenhof Gardens. Sunday - We continue home.

3 £139 £45

*Prices are per person based on two people sharing a two berth (lower/ upper bunk) inside cabin with en-suite.

dates

highlights of your stay... Friday – We board our cruise ferry at Newcastle. After settling into your cabin you are free to enjoy the various facilities on board. Saturday – Sailing straight into Amsterdam the day is

yours to explore. This evening we return to the ferry for overnight sailing. Sunday – Arriving early morning in Newcastle, we disembark and make our journey home.

Fri 10 June

days from s/supp

3 £120 £65

Onboard meals £55pp (2 x breakfast + 2 x evening meals) Outside cabin £12pp Low Birth Supplement £12pp *Prices are per person based on two people sharing a two berth (lower/ upper bunk) inside cabin with en-suite.

to on 44 or www.skills.co.uk Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk Call to book book on 08456 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm 9am-10pm or visit visit www.skills.co.uk

6 days

from

£419

Belfast The Legend of the Titanic & the Giants Causeway

Killarney, Ring of Kerry

The magical Ring of Kerry combines jawdropping coastal scenery with emerald pastures and villages. The 179km circuit winds past pristine beaches, the island-dotted Atlantic, medieval ruins, mountains and lakes.

Return ferry sailing; 5 nights’, dinner bed & breakfast; Nightly entertainment; Sherry reception; Ring of Kerry tour; Free time in Cork and Killarney Optional Jaunting cars in Killarney €20pp

vegetation awaits us with a free morning in Killarney. Join us also for our optional; Jaunting car ride - €20pp through the wonderful Killarney National Park and a lake cruise on Lough Lein (bookable with driver).

Day 5 - After breakfast we travel to Dublin, a stark contrast to the beautiful countryside surrounding Killarney. Time is yours to explore upon arrival. Day 6 – We continue our journey home.

£299

Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Entrance to the Titanic Belfast, Dock & Pump House; Guided tour of Belfast Titanic Quarter

Thanks to Leonardo DiCaprio the award-winning story of the Titanic is in living rooms across the country. Now discover the real-life tragedy for yourself. With visits to the Titanic Dock and Pump House and a guided tour around Belfast this weekend is Nobel Prize worthy. 3h hotel Belfast City Hall

highlights of your stay...

highlights of your stay... Day 1 - Travel to Pembroke for our ferry sailing onto Rosslare and continue our journey through to Ireland. We stay in our first hotel in Waterford for one night Day 2 - We spend a short time exploring Cork We then continue to Killarney where we stay for three nights. Day 3 - Enjoy a Ring of Kerry tour. There is an unspoilt nature to Ireland’s most beautiful region and the Ring of Kerry provides unforgettable scenes Day 4 - A wealth of history, spectacular wildlife and

4 days

from

Includes...

board; Excursion to Amsterdam

Ref: SCMc ROUTE: 3 DAY

Killarney & the Ring of Kerry

p&o CRUISE Return P&O Ferry sailing; FERRY 2 nights’ accommodation on board; Excursion to Bruges

p&o CRUISE Return P&O Ferry sailing; FERRY 2 nights’ accommodation on

One of the most colourful cities in the world, Amsterdam has much to be desired. Full of excitement, culture and wonderful architecture, there is always something new to discover in Holland’s great capital city.

£109

Ring of Kerry

hotels

Treacy’s Hotel, Waterford Holiday inn, Killarney Regency Hotel, Dublin

During your trip you will stay at three hotels, all three stars boasting a comfortable stay.

Ref: SCRK dates

Sat 02 Apr Sun 02 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

6 £419 £80 6 £419 £80

Day 1 – Following local pickups we sail across to Ireland and continue our journey to Belfast for 3 nights. Day 2 – We visit the Titanic Experience, in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. The attraction is not only a stunning piece of architecture, but a six storey visitor experience. An essential stop in any visit to Belfast, the museum sits beside the historic site of the ship’s construction and tells its fascinating and heartfelt story. We also visit the Titanic Dock & Pump House. Enjoy the beauty of this colossal, authentic landmark absorbing 100 years of history with every

step. Descend 44 feet into the bottom of the dry dock where the Titanic last sat on ground. Enter the Pump House and discover the beating heart of the ship yard. Day 3 – This morning enjoy a guided tour of Belfast packed with history and culture. Afterwards you are free to explore this city for yourself or join us for an optional excursion. Giant’s Causeway £10pp Unlock the mystery of this dramatic landscape that has been inspiring the imagination of visitors for years – a must see! Day 4 – After breakfast we begin our journey home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Ramada Encore Belfast City Centre, Belfast

Located in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast City; close to the Titanic Quarter, Odyssey Arena, Waterfront Hall and Victoria Square Shopping makes this the ideal choice.

Ref: SCTI dates

Mon 18 Apr

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

4 £299 £75

West Coast Gems of the Emerald Isle

A beautiful part of a magical island wild in spirit and offering magnificent vistas and seascapes at every turn. The West Coast of Ireland encapsulates some of the finest and most dramatic aspects of the Irish landscape. Experience the essence of Irish charm that makes this place remarkable all year round. During our stay you can experience firsthand traditional Irish music and dancing as Lisdoonvarna celebrates its annual music and dancing festival! highlights of your stay...

Day 1 – Following local pick-ups we catch the ferry and travel to Dublin, here we will enjoy one night dinner, bed and breakfast. Day 2 – After breakfast we have some free time in Ireland’s exciting capital, Dublin. We then drive to Lisdoonvarna for four nights. Day 3 – We take a trip to the mighty Cliffs of Moher, standing 214m above the Atlantic coast on a clear day you can see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, and the Twelve Pins. One of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions it captures the hearts of all who experience its astonishing

views. We also enjoy a scenic tour of The Burren, an area of limestone rock covering majestic mountains and tranquil valleys with gently meandering rivers. We enjoy a short stop at the Burren Centre, where you can discover the unique magic of the Burren region wild with flora, fauna, legends and natural history. This afternoon we return to our hotel for free time. Day 4 – Enjoy a morning at leisure. This afternoon we visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Village. Bunratty Castle, built in 1425, is the most complete and authentic medieval

fortress in Ireland and contains furnishings and works of art from the period. Bunratty Folk Park, set in 26-acres, is a stunning recreation of a 19th Century village. Enjoy the sights, sounds and scents of this enchanting place as you stroll from house to house around the charming village. Day 5 – Travelling through Spiddal and Maam Cross we arrive at majestic Kylemore Abbey. Originally home to a community of nuns of the Benedictine Order who found refuge here in 1920. The nuns opened a renowned boarding school for girls and began restoring the Abbey, gothic church

and Victorian walled gardens. Now visitors can experience the Victorian atmosphere of the Abbey’s restored rooms, learn the tales of the tragedy and romance of its past inhabitants. On our return we stop off in Galway to browse the shops or relax in the Eyre Square, before returning back to our hotel in time for dinner. Day 6 – We stop off at Limerick where medieval castles and churches give this city a grand feel. We then continue to our overnight hotel Day 7 – After breakfast we catch our ferry and return home.

7 days

from

£499

Return ferry sailing; 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in Dublin; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; 4 nights’ of entertainment, music & dancing; entrance to Kylemore Abbey, Bunratty Castle, Folk Park & Cliffs of Mother; Free time in Dublin; Free time in Lisdoonvarna

2016

Dublin Castle

Dublin beautifully combines the old with the new; its metropolitan city centre bursting with colourful galleries, museums, shops and to-die-for eateries which are enveloped by an enormous wealth of history and magnificent 18th Century architecture from St. Patricks Cathedral to Dublin Castle. This bustling city is erupting with things for you to experience. highlights of your stay...

Kylemore Abbey, Galway

hotel

All hotels will be a minimum of three stars and confirmed four weeks prior to departure.

2016

4 days

from

NEW for

Includes...

White’s Hotel Group Hotel, Lisdoonvarna TBC, Dublin

NEW for

4 Star Dublin City Break Luck of the Irish!

Ref: scwc dates

Sun 04 Sep

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

ROUTE: 4+ N days from s/supp

7 £499 £125

Day 1 – Arriving at Holyhead we board our ferry across to Dublin. Day 2-3 – You’ve probably heard that Guinness tastes better in Dublin, these next two days are yours to cherish, explore and have fun discovering all that this vibrant city has to offer from the 360-degree panoramic views across the city from the bar on the top of the Guinness Storehouse (when in Rome right!), to the Dublin Zoo. Dublin has an array of attractions to excite and entice everyone.

Feed the ducks in St Stephen’s Green, enjoy a picnic on the emerald Phoenix Park and explore its trivial history on a walking tour around medieval castle and Cathedrals draped in splendid 18th Century architecture. Or jump into a traditional Irish pub, like the Temple Bar alive with a unique atmosphere and more than likely a gentlemen singing on a guitar. Day 4 – After a few ‘Whiskey in the jars’ we begin our journey home.

£269

Includes... Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ bed & breakfast; Free time in Dublin

St Patricks Day in Ireland Fun fact: 13 million pints of Guinness will be sold today! no single supplement

Just off O’Connell Street, in the heart of Dublin the Best Western Academy Plaza boasts stylish rooms within easy reach of Trinity College and Dublin Castle. Bars, cafes, shops and restaurants are all on your doorstep.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SCDU dates

Mon 20 Jun

ROUTE: 4+ n days from s/supp

4 £269 £75

£279

Includes... Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Full day to enjoy St Patrick’s day celebrations in Dublin; Guided tour of Dublin

hotel

Best Western Academy Plaza, Dublin

4 days

from

St Patrick Day Collage

Colour yourself in green and celebrate St Patricks Day in Dublin, when the entire city is transformed into one big party that will ignite your sense of Irish pride – Even if you aren’t Irish. Join an assembly of good-humoured crowds as they fill the streets for a showstopping pageant of vibrant colours, street entertainers, fantastic live bands, jiggy music and of course, Guinness. highlights of your stay... Day 1 – We take you to Holyhead for the sailing across to Dublin. We then continue our journey to our hotel. Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Dublin. A day of all things green and Irish! Music, theatre, carnivals, comedy and dance are just some of the vibrant spectacles on offer to tickle your senses; complete with the legendary St Patrick’s Day Parade. We make our way back to our hotel at

approx 6pm. Day 3 – Today we enjoy a fascinating guided tour of Belfast, experience ultimate immersion in Titanic’s hometown, afterwards you are then free to find treasures in the Victorian market, explore the famous docks or simply find a delightful café and watch as the world passes you by. Day 4 – After breakfast we leave our hotel and return to Dublin to board our ferry sailing home.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

hotel

Ballymascanlon House Hotel, Dundalk Situated in Dundalk, this family run hotel is set within 130 acres of parkland steeped in history.

Certificate of Excellence

Ref: SCIP

ROUTE: 4+ N

dates

days from s/supp

Wed 16 Mar

4 £279 NIL

Limited availability on Single Rooms

the facilities requested. 9.4 The costs of making a change increase the closer to the departure date you want to make it. Some arrangements, like particular types of tickets, cannot be changed without paying a cancellation charge of up to 100% of the cost of the ticket (see Clause 6 and 12). C. Optional Items 9.5 Any significant alteration by you after the balance due Where optional items form part of a holiday (such as excursion, date will be treated as a cancellation of the original booking theatre or other attraction tickets) and are purchased by us and will be subject to the cancellation charges detailed below. payment for such optional items is payable in the case of A significant alteration would include a change of departure Day Trips at the time of booking and in the case of Packages date, holiday or hotel, or number of people travelling. a higher deposit may be payable. This will be advised at the time of booking. The costs of such items will not normally be 10. Can I transfer my booking to someone else? refundable on cancellation by you, unless we obtain a refund 10.1 You can transfer your booking to someone else (“the 5. How is your money protected? from the supplier we use, and are not normally transferable. transferee”) provided you give us reasonable notice. 5.1. Packages: The Code of Conduct of the Bonded Coach 10.2 The transferee must be able to satisfy all the conditions Holidays Group (“BCHG”): We subscribe to the Code of 7. If I use an agent who does my money belong to? for the holiday and a change cannot normally be made later Conduct of the Bonded Coach Holidays Group (“BCHG”) Your agent will hold your deposit on your behalf until we issue than 7 days prior to departure. of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (“CPT”). a booking confirmation. The agent then holds this money on 10.3 We will make an administration charge of £10 per person BCHG requires a bond to be taken out to provide protection our behalf. The agent holds the balance you pay on our behalf for Day Trips and £20 per person for all other holidays for every for money received for your Package in the unlikely event until the date the balance is due. The agent will then forward transfer we make plus any reasonable additional costs caused that a Member cannot, for financial reasons, carry out their this to us. by the transfer. obligations to their passengers. 10.4 You as transferor of the booking must also return any 5.2 Packages: BCHG Consumer Guarantee - The BCHG 8. Can we change the price of your holiday after we have tickets or vouchers that you have received. guarantees to bona fide customers that in the event of failure issued the booking confirmation? 10.5 You and the transferee will each remain responsible for of a bona fide Member, it will: 8.1 Yes we can. However this is done only in very limited ensuring that the holiday is paid for by the balance due date. • Wherever possible, arrange for the Package to be completed; circumstances and not within 30 days of your departure. 10.6 Please note: Travel insurance is not transferable and • Where failure occurs after a Package has begun, arrange 8.2 The price of your holiday can be varied due to changes in:optional items specifically purchased by us for you may not be for customers to be returned by an appropriate means of • Transportation costs such as fuel and/or fuel tax, ferry transferable. transport to their UK area of departure; operator fares and tolls, embarkation or disembarkation fees • If the Package cannot be completed as booked, to reimburse at terminals; 11. How can I cancel my holiday? booking payments received by us, subject to taking into • Exchange rates applied to the particular holiday booked; or 11.1 You, or any member of your party, may cancel a booking account and withholding an appropriate amount if any part • Dues and taxes including changes in VAT or any other at any time provided that the cancellation is made by the lead of the Package has already been provided (including any Government imposed charges. name on the booking and is communicated to us in writing. substituted service). 8.3 In the case of any variation described above, an amount 11.2 You will have to pay cancellation charges set out in the 5.3 Day Trips: Please note - the Code of Conduct and the equivalent to 2% of the price of your holiday, which excludes scale below to cover our estimated loss resulting from the Consumer Guarantee of the BCHG only applies to Packages and insurance premiums and any amendment charges, will be 1. Who are we? cancellation. If you are insured against cancellation you may be does not apply to Day Trips. absorbed by us. This Trading Charter/Booking Conditions are the standard able to recover the charges from your insurers. 5.4 Credit card payments: However in the case of both 8.4 If this means that you would have to pay an increase of trading conditions of Skills Motor Coaches Ltd (t/a Skills 11.3 Your cancellation will take effect from the date when more than 10% of the price of your holiday before increase, Holidays) [or Skills Travel Ltd (t/a Skills Day Out and Coachstyle) Packages and Day Trips where you have booked any services we receive your written confirmation of your cancellation. using a credit card it is likely that you would have recourse you have a choice between 2 options:and Laver Holidays Ltd as appropriate]. Our full details and against the credit card provided in the event services are not Option A: You may cancel the holiday and receive a full refund You must also return any tickets or vouchers that you have registered address are given at the end of these terms. supplied in whole or in part. of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. We will received. 11.4 Please note: A reduction in room occupancy may increase 2. Why should I read these pages? consider an appropriate refund of insurance premiums paid the charges for the remaining passengers on the booking by 2.1 Our Trading Charter forms a key part of our agreement with 6. When do I need to pay for my holiday and how much? to us if you can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse the application of supplements for low occupancy of rooms. 6.1 Deposits for Packages: At the time of booking of a Package you and forms the basis of a legally binding contract between your policy. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you you as the lead name making the booking, anyone else in your you will need to pay a deposit for each person named on the must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue 12. Scale of Cancellation Charges booking. party and us. date printed on your revised invoice. Period before departure within which written notification is 6.2 Full payment due for Day Trips: At the time of booking you 2.2 When you make this booking as the lead name you received Amount of cancellation charge shown as % will need to pay the full amount of the day trip. Option B: Alternatively, you can accept an offer of an undertake that you have the authority to accept, and do 6.3 Alterations of price: We reserve the right to alter the prices alternative comparable holiday of equivalent or superior 41 days or more Loss of deposit accept, on behalf of your party the terms of these booking of any of the holidays that we advertise. At the time of booking quality, if available, or an alternative holiday of lower quality, conditions. 40-36 days 40% if available. You may then transfer payment made in respect 2.3 This contract is made subject to the terms of these booking you will be told the current price of the holiday. 35-22 days 60% 6.4 Your commitment: You can book by paying a deposit for of the original holiday to the alternative holiday. If the cost conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the each person named on the booking. You will be told at what 21-14 days 85% of the alternative holiday is less than the original holiday, the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of England and Wales. point in time you will become committed to a booking. difference in price will be refunded. 2.4 These contract terms and any financial guarantees will not 13 days or less 100% 6.5 Our commitment: We are not committed to the booking 8.5 We calculate the price of your holidays using the exchange apply to any holiday involving any type of flight. Instead, you until such time as we provide you with our confirmation of rates quoted by the Bank of England on 16 December 2014 will be supplied with the full booking conditions of the ATOL 13. What happens if we change your holiday? booking. using the following currencies: Pound Sterling for UK and holder arranging your holiday. Your booking agent will have a 13.1 The arrangements for your holiday will usually have Channel Island arrangements and Euro for other arrangements. been made many months in advance. Sometimes changes are copy or alternatively you can request one prior to booking your 6.6 Packages - Balance Due: • For Packages our commitment is always conditional upon any 8.6 Please note that travel arrangements are not always holiday from us. unavoidable and we reserve the right to make them. Most of balance being paid 6 calendar weeks/42 calendar days prior purchased in local currency and some apparent changes in 2.5 If you were unaware of this trading charter before you these changes are likely to be minor and we will do our best to currency exchange rates have no impact on the price of your made your booking and you are not happy to proceed with the to your scheduled departure unless otherwise stated on your keep you informed. confirmation of booking (“the balance due date”). Package due to contractual and other protections in place. booking now that you have seen it, within 7 days of receiving 13.2 If, after booking and before departure, we make a • If you book within our balance due period you will need to 8.7 If any additional sum has been paid for your holiday under significant change to your holiday you will have the option this trading charter you will need to give us written notice of pay the total Package cost at the time of your booking. Clause 8.2 above and there is subsequently, and more than your intention not to proceed with the booking and return of withdrawing from the holiday without penalty or • Where you use an agent, they may require you to pay them 30 days prior to your scheduled departure date, a reduction any documentation provided by us or the travel agent with alternatively you may transfer to another holiday without earlier than this date and will advise you separately of their in the base costs of your holiday as a consequence of matters whom you booked. Your booking will then be cancelled and paying an administration fee. In either case we will pay you balance due date. set out in Clause 8.2, we will refund to you that portion of the your monies will be returned in full, provided you have not compensation according to the scale set out below. • If you do not pay the outstanding balance for your Package additional sum paid to reflect the reduction in base costs. commenced your travel. 13.3 A significant change includes (but is not limited to) a on or before the date when it is due we may cancel your 8.8 We reserve the right to increase or decrease prices of change in departure time or return time of more than 12 booking and you will be required to pay the cancellation 3. How and when do you make a contract with us? unsold holidays and insurance at any time after brochure hours, a change of departure point, location of resort or quality charges detailed below. 3.1 We welcome you making contact with us in a number of publication as our costs change and exchange rates fluctuate, of hotel, (excluding single overnight hotels on Packages where • The date of cancellation will normally be the date when your or to correct errors. Current prices of our holidays and travel ways. You can write to us, phone us, use a nominated travel the quality of the hotel is comparable), a change of mode confirmation in writing that you intend to cancel is received agent, e-mail or visit our website. insurance cover are shown on our website and are also when crossing the Channel or, the specification of the coach. by us or 15 days after the balance due date, whichever comes 3.2 Whichever way you contact us the contract is only made available by telephone. Please ensure you have checked 13.4 If you withdraw from the holiday because we have made first. when the price of any holiday and travel insurance cover you are a significant change or if we have to cancel your holiday for any A. Deposits payable at booking (unless otherwise stated on 3.2.1 Your booking is entered on to our reservation system; interested in before making your booking. reason other than non-payment on the balance due date by confirmation of booking) 3.2.2 We issue a booking confirmation in writing via letter or you, we will offer you the choice of either:9. Can I change my holiday arrangements? email. • A comparable replacement holiday if available; or Travel Duration Deposit 9.1 After we have issued our booking confirmation we will do 3.3 We will send you, or your agent (if booked via an agent), • A replacement holiday of lower quality together with a Packages of 2 days or less £30 per person our best to accommodate any changes you may want to make the booking confirmation within 7 working days of receipt or refund of the price difference; or Packages of 3-8 days £50 per person but we cannot guarantee to do so. such earlier time as may be agreed in writing. • A full refund of the money you have paid. Packages of 9 days or more £70 per person 9.2 Any proposed changes must be notified to us in writing 3.4 Please check this confirmation very carefully to ensure 13.5 When we have notified you of the changes and options Day Trips Not applicable - full price payable at time of booking or at the office at which you made your booking and must be all the information is correct and tell us, or your agent, available, you must tell us your decision as soon as possible signed by the person who signed the booking confirmation immediately of any errors. and within any timescale we may need to set bearing in mind B. Balance Due form. the need to safeguard the holiday arrangements of other For Day Trips the full price is payable at the time of booking. 4. Definitions – types of travel contract 9.3 If we are able to make the changes an amendment fee customers. For Packages the balance is due in full 6 calendar weeks/42 4.1 “Day Trips” means any trip or tour where at the time of will be payable of £10 per booking for Day Trips and £20 per 13.6 If we have to cancel your holiday at any time, we are calendar days prior to your scheduled departure unless booking we intend that the duration of the tour or trip should booking for all other holidays plus any additional charge for not exceed 24 hours and we do not intend any hotel or similar sleeping accommodation to be included within the facilities offered. 4.2 “Package” means a booking of at least two of the following components, when the service covers a period of more than twenty-four hours and/or includes overnight accommodation:• Transport • Accommodation • Other tourist services not ancillary to transport or accommodation and accounting for a significant part of the package. 4.3 “Holidays” includes any Day Trip or Package.

trading charter

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otherwise stated on your confirmation of booking.

Please note an additional charge will be made on all credit card payments for deposits and balances (currently 2.5%). No additional charge is applicable when using a debit card.

only liable for monies you may have paid to us at the time of cancellation and for the compensation as detailed in the scale below. 14. Scale of Compensation 14.1 We will pay you compensation for significant changes on the following scale: Period before departure in which significant change is notified to you or your agent amount per person More than 56 days Nil 29-56 days £10 15-28 days £15 8-14 days £20 0-7 days £25 14.2 Payment of compensation according to the scale set out above will not affect your statutory rights to claim further compensation if, in all the circumstances, you remain dissatisfied. 14.3 If, prior to departure, we make a significant change to your holiday arrangements or cancel your holiday we will pay you compensation on the above scale unless:• The holiday is cancelled because the number of persons who agreed to take it is less than the minimum number required, and you were informed of the cancellation in writing within the period indicated in the description of the holiday; or • The holiday is changed or cancelled by reason of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised. These circumstances include for example war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, fire, quarantine, epidemic or health risks, natural or nuclear disasters, port and terminal closures and adverse weather conditions. 14.4 If, after departure, we need to make a change to a significant proportion of your holiday we will do our best to make suitable alternative arrangements at no extra cost to you. If it proves impossible to make suitable alternative arrangements, or if you have reasonable grounds for refusing the alternative offered, we will arrange transport back to your point of departure, or to an alternative location that we agree to. 15. What is the extent of our liability? 15.1 Your contract with us will be performed with reasonable skill and care. 15.2 We accept responsibility if you or any member of your party is killed or injured as a result of an activity forming part of your holiday arrangements which you booked with us before your departure; or if any part of your holiday arrangements, booked with us in the UK, is not as described in the brochure or not of a reasonable standard but only if the failure in your holiday arrangements or any death or personal injury is due to any fault on our part or that of our agents or suppliers whilst acting in the course of their employment. 15.3 We do not accept responsibility for such failure, death or personal injury if 15.3.1 This is not caused by any fault of ours or of our agents or suppliers; or 15.3.2 This is caused by you or someone not connected with your holiday arrangements; or 15.3.3 This is due to unusual or unforeseen circumstances which, even with all due care, we, or our agents or suppliers, could not have anticipated or avoided; or 15.3.4 This is due to an event which we or our agents or suppliers, even with due care, could not foresee or forestall. 15.4 For claims which do not involve personal injury, illness or death, the most we will have to pay if we are liable to you is limited to the price that the person affected paid for their holiday (not including insurance premiums and amendment charges). We will only have to pay this maximum amount if everything has gone wrong and you have received no benefit from your holiday. 15.5 If you or any member of your party is killed, injured or becomes ill as a result of transport by ship, train or coach, any liability (if any) which we or any carrier may have to pay compensation is limited in line with the applicable conventions, namely the Athens Convention (applies to transport by ship), the Berne Convention (applies to transport by rail) and the Geneva Convention (applies to transport by road). You can get copies of the relevant conventions from the Internet. You should also note that these conventions may limit or remove the carrier’s liability to you and the amount which the carrier has to pay you. 15.6 If we make any payment to you or any member of your party for death, personal injury or illness, you will be asked to assign to us or our insurers the rights you may have to take action against the person or organisation responsible for causing the death, personal injury or illness and you will be obliged to cooperate with us in taking such action.

Call toCall book on 08456 66 5566 4455 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk to book on 08456 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

15.7 Our suppliers (such as accommodation or transport providers) have their own booking conditions or conditions of carriage, and these conditions are binding between you and the supplier. We may take the benefit of such booking conditions where any claims are brought against us. Some of these conditions may limit or remove the relevant transport provider’s or other supplier’s liability to you. You can get copies of such conditions from our offices, or the offices of the relevant supplier. 16a. What do I need to do if I wish to complain? 16.1 If you have a complaint during your holiday you should tell the driver/representative or supplier at the earliest opportunity so that they can do their utmost to resolve the problem immediately. 16.2 If they are unable to resolve the problem to your satisfaction you should complete a Holiday Report Form which is available from the driver/representative. 16.3 If, on your return from holiday, you are dissatisfied you should write to us within 28 days. You will need to quote your booking reference number. 16.4 If you do not tell us at the earliest opportunity about a problem giving rise to your complaint we cannot take steps to investigate and rectify it. In deciding how to respond to your complaint we will take into account the date you first drew the problem to the attention of our driver/representative or supplier. 16b. If I do not agree with your decision can I request arbitration? If we cannot resolve your complaint amicably you may request that the dispute is referred to an arbitration scheme established by the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT). Please note: this scheme does not apply to claims that arise mainly in respect of physical injury or illness or the consequences of any illness or injury. 17. Children 17.1 Our Day Trips (without accommodation) and our Packages (with accommodation) may not be suitable for children (i.e. those under the age of 18). 17.2 It is in our absolute discretion whether a child (under the age of 18) is to be accepted on our Day Trips or Packages. 17.3 If in our absolute discretion we agree to accept a child on our Day Trips or Packages:17.3.1 The child must be accompanied at all times by a full fare-paying adult either a parent or other person with parental responsibility for the child, or by an adult who has been given written permission to accompany the child by such person. 17.3.2 Infants under 2 years of age, when on a coach, must at all times sit on the lap of the accompanying adult, and must be provided by the adult with an approved restraint device which must at all times be securely fitted by the adult. 17.3.3 Children aged over 2 years but who have not yet reached 12 years or 135cm in height must be provided with a suitable child restraint by the accompanying adult. 17.4 There may be a reduction in the cost of the holiday when a child travels with an adult. Please see our brochures for details of such arrangement. Such a reduction may apply when the child is under 2 and does not occupy a coach seat of its own. 18. Coach seating 18.1 We seek to provide coach travel as described in our brochures or advertisements but we reserve the right to substitute suitable alternative arrangements and vehicles, and to vary seating configurations should this be required. 18.2 We will seek to fulfil, where possible, a passenger’s preference for a particular type of seat where this is communicated to us in writing at the time of booking. However we cannot guarantee that such a preference will be fulfilled or that passengers on the same booking will be able to sit together for the whole or part of any holiday. 19. Hotel Facilities 19.1 We constantly strive to offer hotels of an appropriate standard as part of our Packages. 19.2 However some hotel facilities, such as indoor or outdoor swimming pools or leisure facilities may from time to time be withdrawn or not be available for example for routine maintenance or be subject to seasonal availability. 19.3 The provision of hotel facilities cannot therefore be guaranteed. 20. Health & Safety on holiday 20.1 In countries outside the UK, standards of infrastructure, safety and hygiene may be different or lower than those to which we are accustomed in the UK. You should therefore exercise greater care for your own protection. 20.2 Further information can be obtained from your GP or from your travel agent who can provide you with the leaflet “Health

Advice for Travellers” published by the Department of Health. 20.3 Some people may be at risk from discomfort or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if they remain immobile on a journey for a long period of time. If you are planning to undertake a bus or coach journey of more than 3 hours you should consult your doctor if you have ever had DVT or pulmonary embolism, a family history of clotting conditions, cancer or treatment for cancer, a stroke, heart or lung disease or if you have had major surgery in the past 3 months. We reserve the right to refuse any booking in the absence of a doctor’s certificate confirming that you are fit to travel. 20.4 During the journey we will endeavour to provide comfort stops as frequently as possible. Comfort stops are necessary both for your comfort and for the health and safety of our coach drivers and employees. During these stops you are encouraged to get off the coach and walk around. Exercise reduces any discomfort which may be caused by periods of immobility. During any journey you should drink alcohol only in moderation as it leads to dehydration. 21. Disabilities and medical problems 21.1 Should you or a member of your party have any medical condition or disability that may affect your/their holiday or that of other passengers, you must provide full written details to us at the time of booking. This should include a full description of the medical condition and/or disability, of any disability aids/medical equipment you may be intending to bring on holiday and of any other matters which may be relevant to your participation in the holiday. This is so that we can advise you of the suitability of the holiday. This applies whether the booking is made on-line, in person, in writing, or by telephone. 21.2 If a particular issue is identified, we reserve the right to request a doctor’s certificate confirming that the passenger is fit for travel and reserve the right to refuse any booking or to cancel any booking in the absence of such doctor’s certificate being produced upon request. 21.3 If a passenger requires personal assistance (for example but not limited to assistance with embarking, disembarking, feeding, dressing, toileting, mobilising, stowing medical or mobility equipment) then this passenger must travel with an able bodied companion/carer and written confirmation that such assistance will be provided for the entirety of the holiday is required at the time of booking. Unfortunately coach drivers/tour managers are unable to offer such assistance. 21.4 Whilst we will make every reasonable adjustment to do so, if we are unable to accommodate the needs of a passenger or believe that the medical condition or disability of a passenger is likely to adversely affect other passengers, we reserve the right to decline or cancel the booking. 21.5 We also reserve the right to cancel any holiday and impose cancellation charges if we are not fully advised of any relevant disability or medical condition at the time the booking is made and subsequently decide that we are unable to accommodate this passenger. This applies whether we advise that we are unable to accommodate a passenger either before departure or during the holiday and if this occurs during the holiday then we will seek the additional costs in so far as we choose to return the passenger home. 21.6 Please note: Our coaches have limited accommodation space for wheelchairs. We are generally only able to accommodate either 2 folding wheelchairs or 1 folding wheelchair and 1 light dry cell motorised wheelchair/mobility scooter (weight not exceeding 15kg) per coach. You must check at the time of booking as to available space for your device and such devices can only be carried when we have confirmed our ability to carry the device on your booking confirmation. We reserve the right not to carry such devices where space has not been pre-booked. 22. Force majeure 22.1 Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions we will not be liable or pay you compensation where the performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected (for example but not limited to delay, cancellations, change of itinerary, change of accommodation, change of transport) by “Force Majeure”. 22.2 Force Majeure means an event which we or the supplier(s) of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid and is therefore an event beyond our or the supplier’s reasonable control. 22.3 These events include but are not limited to strikes, riots, political/civil unrest, government acts, hostilities, war, threat of war, terrorist activity or threat of terrorist activity, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, flood, tornadoes, hurricanes, transportation and mechanical problems, airport closures, and severe weather conditions. 22.4 We suggest that you take out adequate travel insurance to cover such eventualities.

22.5 In the unlikely event that the performance of our contractual obligations are prevented or affected due to Force Majeure after departure, we regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless we obtain any from our suppliers). Advice from the Foreign Office to avoid or leave a particular country may constitute Force Majeure. For your safety, we will follow the advice given by the Foreign Office. 23. Passenger behaviour 23.1 We want all our customers to have a happy and carefree holiday. 23.2 But you must remember that you are responsible for your behaviour and the effect it may have on others. 23.3 If you or any member of your party is • abusive or disruptive; or • behaves in a way which, in our reasonable opinion, could cause - distress, damage or injury to others; or - affect their enjoyment of their holiday, or - damage to property, we have the right, after reasonable consideration, to terminate your contract with us. If this happens we will have no further obligations or liability to you. 23.4 The coach driver and tour manager (and where appropriate the ship’s captain, or authorised official of other means of transport) is entitled to refuse you boarding and/ or to disembark you, if in their reasonable opinion you are unacceptably under the influence of drink or drugs or you are being violent or disruptive or are causing distress. 23.5 If you are refused boarding on the outward journey we will regard it as a cancellation by you and we will apply cancellation charges according to the scale in clause 12. If the refusal is on the return journey we have the right to terminate the contract and will have no further obligations or liability to you. 24. No smoking 24.1 We operate a strict no smoking/alcohol policy on all our coaches. 24.2 We appreciate the co-operation of smokers and remind them that frequent journey breaks are made and bookings are taken on this understanding. 25. Other restrictions 26.1 You must not use mobile phones or other electronic devices on the coach in a manner which, in the reasonable opinion of the coach driver or tour representative, might annoy or distress other passengers or our staff. We would request that mobile phone devices only be used on the coach in the case of emergency. 26.2 You must not consume alcohol on the coach. 26. Pets We do not allow pets to be taken on our holidays. Registered Assistance Dogs will normally be accommodated on UK holidays but not on overseas holidays. 27. Pick up point, itineraries, travel documents and passport 27.1 You should check with us between 7 and 14 days prior to your scheduled departure to ensure that the departure point and departure time for your holiday has not been changed. 27.2 You are solely responsible for ensuring that you are at the correct departure points, at the correct time, with the correct documents (including where appropriate original tickets, identification and travel documents and passport). 27.3 We cannot be held liable for any loss or expense suffered by you or your party because of the absence of such documents or your late arrival at the departure points. 27.4 If you are a British citizen travelling outside the United Kingdom you must have a full UK passport valid for a minimum of 6 months after your scheduled date of return. 27.5 Non-UK citizens must seek passport and visa advice from the consulates of the countries you plan to visit prior to making a booking for one of 27.6 The name on the passport/travel document must match the name on the ticket. If someone in your party changes their name after the booking is made you must tell us immediately so that we can issue the ticket in the new name. 27.7 When you have paid the balance we will send you or your booking agent all the necessary travel labels so that you receive them in good time for your holiday. 27.8 Certain travel documents may have to be retained by us and your driver/courier will then issue them to you at the relevant time. If you lose a travel document after it has been issued to you we will require you to meet the direct cost charged by the carrier/supplier for the issue of a duplicate or replacement. 27.9 We reserve the right to modify itineraries to conform with advice and requests from the competent authorities in the United Kingdom and any other sovereign state through which

the tour will operate. Included excursions are detailed on the relevant brochure page and refunds will not be made for any excursion taken. 27.10 Optional excursions may be booked and paid for in resort but these will not form part of any Package booked with us. 27.11 Admission fees to events, shows, buildings, grounds etc. are not included in the price of the holiday unless expressly stated on the relevant brochure page. 28. What happens if you are delayed? 28.1 We do not accept liability for delay. For the avoidance of doubt, we shall endeavour to fulfil but do not guarantee:28.1.1 Departure times; 28.1.2 Arrival times; 28.1.3 Pick up times; 28.1.4 Drop-off times; or 28.1.5 Connections. 28.2 Your travel insurance may cover you for expenses caused by some delays. 28.3 In addition where you are delayed for more than 12 hours in any 24 hour period we will seek to minimise any discomfort and where possible, arrange for refreshments, meals and accommodation. 29. Do I need to take out travel insurance? 29.1 We strongly advise all our customers to take out travel insurance to cover medical and repatriation costs, personal injury, loss of baggage and cancellation charges for all holidays both within and outside the UK. 29.2 You do not need to take out our travel insurance but you should have insurance, which is at least as good as, or better than, the insurance we offer. If you do not have adequate insurance and require our assistance whilst on holiday, we reserve the right to reclaim from you any medical repatriation or other expenses which we may choose to incur on your behalf which would otherwise have been met by insurers. 29.3 We strongly recommend you obtaining a European Health Insurance Card (“EHIC”) for all holidays within the EU. 30. What assistance will you give me if things go wrong when it is not your fault? 30.1 If you, or any member of your party, suffer death, illness or injury whilst overseas arising out of an activity which does not form part of your Package travel arrangements or an excursion arranged through us in the UK, we may, at our discretion, offer advice, guidance and assistance. 30.2 Where legal action is contemplated and you want our assistance, you must obtain our written consent prior to commencement of proceedings. 30.3 Our consent will be given subject to you undertaking to assign any costs and benefits received under any relevant insurance policy to ourselves. We limit the cost of any assistance we may, in our discretion, choose to give to you and any member of your party to £5000 per party in any event. 31. Special/Additional needs 31.1 Please note hotels may not provide adequate facilities for guests with mobility problems or who suffer from other disabilities. 31.2 Whether the holiday is within the UK or overseas you are required to notify us before you book, and to confirm in writing, if you or any member of your party has special needs or suffers from any disability (see Clause 21 above). We are keen to plan arrangements for your holiday so that special needs and requests can be accommodated as far as possible. 31.3 If you will need assistance or special facilities in the hotel, or may have difficulties in taking part in excursions, embarking or disembarking or travelling on the coach or other means of transport you, must let us know at the time of your booking. 31.4 Not all the holidays in this brochure may be suitable for you. We want you to enjoy your holiday and will try to help you select an appropriate trip. 31.5 If you need advice or further information either you or your booking agent should contact us. 31.6 However, we cannot be held responsible whether for disappointment, distress or otherwise should you decide to travel and then find the holiday itinerary unsuitable for your own personal mobility. 32. Special/Additional requests 32.1 If you or anyone on your booking has a special request (including dietary requirements) please tell us in writing before booking, or as soon as you are medically advised, and send us a copy of the diet. 32.2 We will notify the hotel or hotels on your holiday. 32.3 However please note that some hotels may not have facilities to cope with special diets and we cannot be held liable for their failure to do so. 32.4 Where we think that a hotel is likely to be unable to cope with a special diet, we will tell you prior to your booking

confirmation being issued so that you can exercise your right to cancel your holiday booking without charge. 32.5 Any extra costs incurred must be paid to the hotel by you prior to departure from the hotel. 32.6 You should also detail any other requests, for example, low floor rooms, showers as opposed to bath, particular rooms or locations on the special requests section of the booking form or on your internet booking form. 32.7 For any booking made by telephone, you must confirm to us in writing the special request. 32.8 We will pass your request to the relevant supplier but this does not necessarily mean that your request will be fulfilled. 32.9 If a request can be fulfilled you may incur an extra charge payable either to us or direct to the hotel. 32.10 Please note that requests cannot be guaranteed unless we confirm on your booking confirmation that this is guaranteed. w33. Single Occupancy 33.1 Single occupancy of rooms when available may be subject to a supplementary charge and this will be shown on the brochure page. 33.2 Although some tours featured in our brochures have no single supplement, spaces are limited and therefore sell quickly. 33.3 However, additional single rooms may be requested but will be subject to availability and a charge made by the hotel. 34. Entertainment Some of our hotels arrange additional entertainment. Where this is part of the holiday details are given on the respective brochure page. Where it is not specified it may still be available but is at the discretion of the hotel and is not guaranteed. It may be withdrawn if there is a lack of demand or for operational reasons. 35. Lost Property 35.1 Luggage and personal belongings are carried at all times at the owner’s sole risk and we are not responsible for any property or equipment either left on the coach (whether the coach is unattended or the coach driver is present) or lost elsewhere during your holiday. 35.2 Any items of lost property found by or handed to us will be held for a maximum period of 1 month following the date of the tour after which they will be disposed of or sold without further notice. There will be a minimum charge of £2.00 on collection of any property from our offices. If you request the return of lost property via the post, there will be a charge for postage and packaging. 36. Data Protection Act 36.1 In order to process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements we, and your travel agent, need to use the information you provide such as name, address, email address, any special needs/dietary requirements etc. 36.2 We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper measures are in place to protect your information. 36.2.1 We may pass the information on to companies within our group and must pass such information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as hotels, transport companies etc. 36.2.2 The information may also be supplied to others for example, security or credit checking companies and public authorities such as customs/immigration if required by them, or as required by law. 36.2.3 Additionally, where your holiday is outside the European Economic Area (EEA), controls on data protection in your destination may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this country. 36.2.4 Subject to the above we will not, however, pass information on to any person not responsible for part of your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary or religious requirements. If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, we cannot provide your booking. 36.2.5 In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons. 36.2.6 Please note that where information is held by your travel agent, this is subject to your agent’s own data protection policy. You are entitled to a copy of your information held by us. If you would like to see this please contact us. We retain your full contact details and other information in secure files and electronic storage facilities. We may use this information to contact you by mail, telephone or electronic means. We will provide you with details of other goods and services including those of selected third parties. If you do not wish to receive further information about products and services please write to our data controller.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Travel insurance is a vital aspect to booking a holiday, giving you protection against unforeseen circumstances that could otherwise spoil your holiday. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that properly covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged competitive travel insurance from Travel & General Insurance Services Limited to specifically meet your needs on your holiday. The schedule of cover below sets out a summary of the cover provided by our tailored insurance. Skills Travel Limited is an Appointed Representative of Travel & General Insurance Services Limited and are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, full details can be found at www.fca.org.uk

standard schedule of cover

Section

Sum Insured Per Person

Excess Per Person

£1,500 Up to £60 £1,500 £100 (UK) £300 (Europe) £15,000 £15,000 £2,000,000 Up to £450 (Europe) Up to £100 (UK) £1,500 £100 £200 £200 £2,000,000 £25,000

£50 (£15 Loss of deposit) NIL £50 NIL NIL NIL NIL £30 NIL NIL £30 NIL £30 NIL NIL NIL

1 Cancellation charges 2 Travel delay Abandonment 3 Missed departure 4 Personal accident - Disability Personal accident – Death (age limits apply) 5 Medical expenses abroad 6 Hospital benefit 7 Personal property Delayed baggage Personal money 8 Loss of passport 9 Personal liability 10 Legal costs & expenses

Worldwide travel agent

UK Per Person 2-3 days

£17

4-5 days

£21

6+ days

£25

Annual

£79

REQUEST YOUR COPY NOW: 0845 666 5544

Do something different this year, with a variety of day trips from Traditional afternoon tea in idyllic settings and special events to the thrilling, twirling adventures of some of the UK’s best loved theme parks.

Skills can offer you and your group wide range of coach travel, tour ideas, bespoke breaks and services which include:

Skills Worldwide Travel is your independent travel expert. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service and will provide a travel solution that’s right for you.

up to 3 days

£26

4-5 days

£29

6-9 days

£34

10+ days

£37

Annual

£129

With almost unlimited choice and flexibility on destinations travelling with a variety of air, cruise and rail operators our friendly and knowledgeable travel advisors can make any holiday dream a reality.

Spend time exploring the magical sights of New York, a fantastic place offering an endless choice of places to see and things to do. From shopping till you drop, to a specialist tour, or experience a fabulous New York Theatre Show.

If you are travelling within England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or the Isles of Scilly you are not required to declare your medical conditions. However, you must be able to comply with the following: you are not aware of any reason why the trip should be cancelled or cut short you are not travelling (a) against the advice of a medical practitioner (b) for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment or (c) if you have been given a terminal prognosis you are not receiving or awaiting medical treatment from any illness or injury as a hospital day case or inpatient as any claim arising from the illness will not be covered if you are on medication at the time of travel, your medical condition must be stable and well controlled.

If your medical condition cannot comply with these terms then any claim related to that condition will not be covered. If you are travelling outside of England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or the Isles of Scilly this insurance carries Health Conditions so you need to inform the Towergate Medical Screening Department of any medical condition(s) that may accept our acceptance of your cover. If anyone to be covered or anyone upon whose health the trip depends: 1. 2. 3. 4.

REQUEST YOUR COPY NOW: 0845 666 5544

EXCELLENT VALUE FOR MONEY

Europe Per Person

health conditions 1. 2. 3. 4.

NEW 2016 BROCHURE OUT NOW!

‘DOOR-TO-DOOR’ HOLIDAYS

your independent

Premiums available from £17 dependant on the duration, please contact us for a quote

NEW 2016 BROCHURE OUT NOW!

Contact Skills Worldwide Travel today on 0115 9222 441 or email worldwidetravel@skills.co.uk to discuss your next worldwide destination no matter where you decide. Skills Worldwide Travel 104 Chilwell Road, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 1ES

REQUEST YOUR DAYS OUT LEAFLET: 0845 666 5544

• Tailor made tours for your group • Hotel & attractions bookings • Executive coach and mini bus hire • Competitively priced quotes If you are looking for a tour or break for 25 people or more then contact our Groups Manager Michele today and find out what special offers are available.

Has an existing or ongoing medical condition(s) Is taking prescribed medication Has or has had any condition(s) still requiring periodic review Is awaiting any tests, treatment, investigation, referral or the results of these.

Call 0115 9777 416 or email Groups@skills.co.uk

You must telephone the Towergate Medical Screening Department on 0334 892 1698 to inform them of your medical condition(s). Office hours are 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday excluding Bank Holidays. Failure to notify them may cause your circumstances to fall within a policy exclusion. You may be required to pay an Additional Premium. PLEASE NOTE - you must also notify the Towergate Medical Screening Department immediately of any changes in medical circumstances arising between the date the policy is issued and the time of departure for the trip, i.e. you develop a new medical condition or an existing condition worsens. If you do not tell us about your medical condition we have the right to amend, restrict or cancel your cover under the policy.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or visit www.skills.co.uk

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Facebook us at SkillsHolidays1919

visit twitter.com/SkillsHolidays

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visit facebook.com/SkillsHolidays1919

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Visit us online at www.skills.co.uk 24 hours, 7 days a week

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Write to us at Skills Holidays

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Nottingham, 3-3a Mansfield Road, Nottingham, NG1 3FB Bulwell, Skills Head Office, Belgrave Road, Nottingham, NG6 8LY

Belgrave Road, Bulwell, Nottingham, NG6 8LY

Beeston, 104 Chilwell Road, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 1ES

Stylish coach holidays for the 21st century

4 LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS SINCE 1919 4 3 EASY WAYS TO JOIN OUR HOLIDAYS 4 FINANCIAL PROTECTION GUARANTEED

To Book call 08456 66 44 55 or visit www.skills.co.uk