Skills Group - 2016 Spring - Departure Lounge Magazine by Skills | Holidays | Coachstyle

Lounge departure

Spring Edition

Welcome...

Spring Edition | Published January 2016 | FREE COPY

magazine

Easter escapes

Easter Eggstravaganza party night, Easter on Lake Como and more destinations available (see p4)

Welcome to the annual ‘Spring’ edition of our Departure Lounge magazine.

Valentine’s Day

Happy New Year! Now that the crackers have cracked and the puddings have settled it’s time to look ahead to a new year and new beginnings in 2016. Whatever your plans or resolutions for 2016, you can be sure thar our Product Team have once again put together a fantastic tour itinerary for 2016.

Great trips away to spoil your loved one or escape with friends to our Laver Saver Valentine’s Singles weekend. (see p3)

Great Offers

We’ve launched a brand new ‘Recommend a friend’ discount and include a special voucher code. Read on for details....

Inside our magaizine we’ve given you a glimpse of come of the best old favourites and new destinations we have going out this Spring across all of our three brands; Skills, Laver and CoachStyle. With more destinations than ever before across Europe and the British Isles, there’s no excuse not to make 2016 the year of exploration! We have also highlighted our Easter itinerary in 2016 which is the biggest in the company’s history. It includes an unbeatable value break to Torquay with CoachStyle, a short Mini-Cruise to Amsterdam with Skills Continental, a luxury 4-day break in Sidmouth with Laver and an extraspecial party weekend with Skills British, complete with a murder mystery, a live band and casino!

Mothering Sunday

Charity Calendar For the first time ever, the Skills Team have launched a Charity Calendar to help customers keep track of all of the events and new holidays for 2016, whilst also raising money for two great local charities.

Also, with Mother’s Day on the horizon , look out for our special section on great breaks and gift ideas for the most important lady in your life (you may also find inspiration in our ‘Must-See-Events’ which includes the ever-popular André Rieu and a 2-day trip to the Grand National!).

Each page gives a behind-thescenes look at Skills life and features engineers, drivers, retail members and directors! Each calendar costs £5 and all proceeds will be donated to Nottingham Children’s Hospital and Briar Close Care Home in Borrowash which specialises in dementia care.

Give us a call today and let us help make sure your 2016 is truly unforgettable. - you’re in good company.

The calendar also includes a monthly quiz to win a £10 gift voucher to spend on a trip of your choice!

Get your 2016 Skills Charity Calendar from any of our shops today All proceeds go to Charity

Treat the most important person in your life with our great gift ideas (see p3)

special events We’ve arranged tours to some of the most exciting events across the UK and EU (and we’re also inviting you to some of our own! (see p5)

£10 OFF

QUOTE THE CODE BELOW TO RECEIVE £10 OFF YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY BOOKING (excluding Day Trips) Voucher can only be used once

and not in conjunction with any other offers. For full terms please call.

CODE: LM2016 Exp. 01/03/16 book your holiday today: departures available from notts, derbs & leics

Sign up to our mail list to get our NEW holiday brochures,*calls callcost0845 666 5544* or visit Skills.co.uk 3p per minute plus your network provider’s standard charge

SKILLS TRAVEL SHOPS: Skills Travel & Laver Holidays Nottingham - 3-3a Mansfield Road, NG1 3FB | Skills Holidays: Bulwell - Skills Head Office, Belgrave Road, Bulwell, NG6 8LY; Skills Worldwide Travel: Beeston - 104 Chilwell Road, Beeston, NG9 1ES | Laver Holidays: Derby, Unit 24BCD, Eagle Centre Market, Derby, DE1 2AZ Laver Holidays: Loughborough, 25 Swan St, Loughborough, Leicester LE11 5BL

Tours operated by Skills Holidays, Coachstyle and Laver Holidays. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 or visit www.skills.co.uk for details. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge Head Office: Belgrave Road, Bulwell, Nottingham, NG6 8LY. VAT Reg. No. 660 5538 34 | Skills Travel Limited trading as Skills Holidays, CoachStyle and Skills Days Out company reg in England. No.546349. Registered Office: the white house, Claridon Street, Nottingham NG1 5GF. For Laver Holidays Terms & Conditions see www.Laverholidays.co.uk or see the holiday brochure.

Nigel Skill Chairman

Happy New Year once again and welcome back to the Spring Edition of our Lounge Magazine, featuring some great new tours our planners have provided for the Spring months. 2015 was very successful: we had our first two Open Days in March and September which saw our brilliant team welcome over 1000 customers to our Head Office in Bulwell. We also launched special coffee mornings in all of our shops which help all of our customers get to know the local team and how they can help. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped to make all of our coffee mornings and Open Days such a big success. Looking ahead, in 2016 we are going to be repeating both our Open Days and our coffee mornings on a bigger scale. We have monthly coffee mornings at all of our branches and we have our first group Open Day of the year on Sunday 13th March! With our festive brochure launch in February, the Open Day is your chance to come along, have a chat to our team, ask questions and generally have a good time! Come along, you’re all invited and it would be great to see you there. Another event to look forward to in 2016 is Laver Holiday’s 25th Anniversary Tea Party. We took over the Laver company in 2014 and I am pleased to say that it is now a fully fledged brand in the Skills family, very much aimed at those looking for a complete holiday package along with Door-to-Door pickups, entertainment and a full itinerary of excursions. The Laver brand is, like Skills, based on strong family traditions and values and we are incredibly pleased to be celebrating their 25th birthday with a local afternoon tea, party and entertainment on 4th March. Get your ticket early! Finally, I’d like to mention the success of our annual party breaks. We throw them each year and they always seem to get better and better. This year our CoachStyle Party Break returned once more to Liverpool’s Adelphi Hotel on 9th January and hosted over 200 people. Our Skills Party Break to Chester on 23rd January also took a similar number and I already know our Laver Reunion Break on 20th February will also be a success (there’s still a couple of seats left if you’d like to go!). My thanks to all of the passengers who went to all of our party breaks - I’m already looking forward to next year!

Listen out for our new ‘Smooth’ advert! Skills have launched a brand new ad campaign for 2016 on Smooth Radio East Midlands. Tune into Smooth Radio 106.6FM and listen out for our jingle and for information about our latest events and special offers throughout the year. You’re in good company. We’ve celebrated the launch of our campaign by giving away 5 luxury holidays for two across all of our brands, including a 9 day getaway to the dreamy hills of Italy’s Tuscany and a 5 day relaxing Laver break to the Lake District. Congratulations to all of our lucky winners!

OPEN DAY SUNDAY 13th MARCH!

Following the success of our two Open Days in 2015, we’re hosting an even bigger event on Sunday 13th March at our Head Office in Bulwell. We’ll be showcasing our new tours as well as putting on big, exclusive discounts and competitions across all of our brands. The more the merrier so make sure you bring your friends and family! Let us know you’re attending by calling 08456 665544 or email enquiry@skills.co.uk

Mother’s Day This year treat the most important lady in your life to some quality time with you on one of our luxury themed tours. To the right we’ve pulled together a selection of great tours and old favourites that we know from experience make fantastic gifts for loved ones and will be sure to make this year’s Mother’s day extra special. Why not treat your mother to a relaxing and pampering spa session at the luxury Park Hall or to an extra special bonding trip to Ladies’ Day at Ascot? We also have a unique day trip to Harrogate with Afternoon tea and, if you’re looking for a real treat, our 5* Luxury Weekend at the Waldorf Hilton Hotel in London will really impress. Give a little back this Mother’s Day and let us take care of your mum.

Mother’s Day in Harrogate with Cream Tea - 6th March Day Trip from only £25pp Harrogate is renowned for its glamorous heritage and graceful architecture. This spa town offers a wide variety of things to do, including shopping, arts and crafts and the famous “antiques quarter.” Making it the perfect destination for you and your mum! INCLUDES: Return coach travel, Free time in Harrogate with Afternoon Tea at St. George’s Hotel.

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk *calls cost 3p per minute plus your network provider’s standard charge

VALENTINE’S WEEKEND AT THE ADELPHI

3 DAYS from £139

The elegant Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool has hosted every British Prime Minister and is famous for its indulgent decor.

INCLUDES

2 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Visit to Chester Free time in Liverpool

Valentine’s Weekend SKILLS’ VALENTINE’S WEEKEND

2 DAYS

from

£99

HOTEL

This formal and grand 19th Century hotel has high ceilings and a great history. It is also centrally located in the city for those looking to continue their celebrations into the evening.

Fri 12 Feb

LAVER SAVER SINGLE’S VALENTINE’S RETREAT

There is no need to be alone this Valentine’s Day - meet new friends on our Single’s trip to beautiful Oxford and Cambridge

HOTEL

4* Hotel Mercure Milton Keynes Abbey Hill

This stunning Hotel is in a tranquil area and has a beautiful contemporary design.

Day 1 – 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) Day 2 – 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.

The Great Victoria Hotel, Bradford

This renowned hotel is located at the heart of Liverpool city centre and is famous for its extravagant history and luxury decor.

1 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast & Afternoon Tea; Club Class Travel; Excursions to Cambridge & Oxford.

DURING YOUR STAY

Return coach travel; 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Leeds; Excursion to Harrogate.

COACHSTYLE REF: CBAV ROUTE: 2DN

departure date

days (from) s/supp

£139 N/A

2 DAYS from £99

INCLUDES

Cuddle up with your loved one on a dreamy weekend away that’s simply perfect for two. Our brand new Valentine’s tour is designed to help you capture adorable memories together and toast to another year as you explore the best of West Yorkshire; Leeds and the romantic town of Harrogate.

INCLUDES

HOTEL

The Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool

SKILLS REF: SBVD

departure date

Sat 13 Feb

Why not whisk your friends or loved ones away for a relaxing Mini Cruise to Amsterdam, the beautiful city of canals, bicycles and tulips.

Sat 13 Feb

days (from) s/supp

£99 NIL

3 DAYS from £109

INCLUDES

2 nights’ accomodation on board; Return ferry sailing; Excursion to Amsterdam.

HOTEL

SKILLS REF: SCMC ROUTE: SPEC

departure date

ROUTE: 2/3

P&O Cruise Ferry

£99 N/A

Meal Supplement: 2 breakfasts and 2 evening meals - £45 per person

days (from) s/supp

MINI CRUISE AMSTERDAM

LAVER REF: LSSR ROUTE: SAVER S2

departure date

Fri 12 Feb

days (from) s /supp

£109 CALL

*Price is based on 2 people sharing a 2 berth inside cabin. Other cabins may vary.

Gift Ideas: 6th March 5* LUXURY IN LONDON - 20th March 2 days from £159pp Feel like a VIP on this quintessentially delightful weekend of luxury in our remarkable Capital City. You will experience the height of luxury at the 5* Waldorf Hilton Hotel in central London which is on the doorstep of some of the most famous shopping destinations in the world. INCLUDES: 1 night bed & breakfast staying at the 5 star Waldolf Hilton Hotel in London; Afternoon Tea at the Waldolf Hotel; Free time in London.

SPA BREAK PARK HALL - 2nd April 2 days from £99 Perfect for any occasion and offering the ultimate in relaxation, over-indulge on this weekend filled with pampering and retail therapy because she’s worth it!

LADIES DAY AT ROYAL ASCOT - 15th June 2 days from £129 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 horse racing venues and a wonderful day had by ladies and gentlemen alike. INCLUDES: 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast at the 4 star Copthorne Hotel in Effingham, Gatwick; Free time to London; Entrance into Silver Ring (upgrade to Grandstand, available from £54).

INCLUDES: 1 night dinner, bed and breakfast at the 3 star Best Western Park Hall Hotel and Spa in Lancashire; Free time to use hotel facilities; Free time at Manchester’s Trafford Centre. *Pre-bookable Treatments also available from £33pp, call for more details*

(*We also feature a 3-day break for £209pp!)

Call to book on 08456 66 55 44 9am-10pm or book online at www.skills.co.uk *calls cost 3p per minute plus your network provider’s standard charge

ditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge. For Laver Holidays T&Cs please visit www.laverholidays.co.uk.

Egg-cellent Breaks This Easter we have even more Easter breaks across all of our brands than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a short break away with ‘Mini Cruise-Amsterdam’ or an entertainment night with a casino in ‘Easter Eggstravaganza’, you have plenty of options to choose from.

A WELSH EASTER IN

LLANDUDNO

4 DAYS from £179

NEW

Expect beautiful scenery from the Snowdonia National Park and enjoy Easter in the Welsh countryside

INCLUDES

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursions to Chester and Snowdonia National Park & Peak District drive

departure date

Situated on Llandudno’s seafront, Chatsworth House Hotel combines a classical design with a warm welcome.

Fri 25 March

The Chatsworth House Hotel

EASTER IN TORQUAY

ROUTE: 4+ N days (from) s /supp

COACHSTYLE REF: CBWE

HOTEL

4 £179 NIL

4 DAYS from £165

INCLUDES

Return P&O Ferry sailing; 2 nights’ accomodation on board; Excursion to Amsterdam

HOTEL

Meal Supplement: 2 breakfasts and 2 evening meals - £45 per person

Fri 25th March

P&O Ferry

EASTER ON LAKE COMO

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Dartmouth and Brixham; Free time in Torquay

2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 6 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Excursions to Bellagio, Milan, Ascona, Bernina Express ride

COACHSTYLE REF: CBET

departure date

This is a comfortable and relaxed hotel, which is centrally positioned in Torquay.

Fri 25 March

ROUTE: 4+ S

days (from) s /supp

4 £165 NIL

8 DAYS from £629

Located in Tremezzo centre, with panaromic views over Lake Como.

Thurs 24 March

Hotel Bazzoni

EASTER IN SIDMOUTH

2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route 5 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in resort; Visits to Gstaad, Lausanne & Geneva; Ride on Mont Blanc Express.

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast Excursions to Seaton, Beer, Lyme Regis & Weymouth. Also a visit to the Donkey sanctuary.

INCLUDES

EASTER IN SANDOWN, ISLE OF WIGHT

SKILLS REF: SCMM

departure date

Sun 27 March

ROUTE: 3 DAY

days (from) s /supp

8 £629 £120

6 DAYS from £459

HOTEL

Royal York & Faulkner Hotel

A Magnificent Regency building situated on Sidmouth’s elegant Esplande.

EASTER IN SHROPSHIRE Easter is a delightful time of the year; the ideal time to visit Shropshire, as cobbled streets and timbered houses take you back to a simpler time.

5 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Admission to Waltzing Waters; Free time in Sandown

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Visits to Warwick, Shrewsbury, Ludlow & Stratford.

INCLUDES

Trouville Hotel, Sandown

Relax and unwind - days can be spent lazing in the bars and lounge, watching the ocean liners pass and the world go by.

EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA

LAVER REF: LBIW

departure date

Fri 25 March

Mercure Tunbridge Wells, Kent

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

ROUTE: D9

days (from) s /supp

6 £459 NIL

3 DAYS from £249

NEW

INCLUDES

HOTEL

9 £789 £150

4 DAYS from £459

ROUTE: G 11

LAVER REF: LXEA

departure date

Thurs 24 March

days (from) s /supp

4 £459 NIL

4 DAYS from £279

INCLUDES

This year instead of staying at home waiting for the Easter bunny, grab your friends and celebrate your evenings in style. 2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursions to Cambridge & Canterbury; 4 course Gala Dinner with live band, Casino & Murder Mystery

ROUTE: 4+ S

days (from) s /supp

INCLUDES

We once again return to the Trouville Hotel the perfect base for us to enjoy the miles of golden beaches, pretty villages and quaint shopping areas

HOTEL

3 £129 £45

SKILLS REF: SCLC

departure date

Celebrate Easter in one of Lavers most popular destinations.

HOTEL

9 DAYS from £789

HOTEL

Come along and experience this magnificent region of classic Swiss scenery.

Hotel Central Residence, Leysin OR Mercure Classic, Leysin Your hotel will be confirmed 4 weeks before you travel.

days (from) s /supp

INCLUDES

HOTEL

SWISS ALPS FT. THE MATTERHORN

SKILLS REF: SCMC

departure date

An epitome of elegance, Lake Como is known for its stately gardens and exquisite villas. Often thought of as one of Italy’s prettiest lakes.

Seascape Hotel, Torquay

3 DAYS from £129

One of the most colourful cities in the world, Amsterdam has much to be desired. Discover the city of bikes.

Take advantage of Torquay’s warmer climate this Easter, more than just a beach spot it is full of surprises including its pretty harbours.

INCLUDES

MINI CRUISE AMSTERDAM

SKILLS REF: SBEG

departure date

Fri 25 March

ROUTE: 2/3 S

days (from) s /supp

£249 £40

HOTEL

Park Inn by Radisson Birmingham Walsall Stay comfortably at this Walsall Hotel with smartly designed rooms.

AN EASTER TALE OF THREE SHIRES

Sat 26 March

Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall

On the outskirts of picturesque Gloucester, surrounded by acres of beautiful grounds, this elegant country house boasts modern rooms.

4 £279 £45

4 DAYS from £269

NEW

INCLUDES

HOTEL

days (from) s/supp

Outstanding natural beauty in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire. 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Gloucester; Entrance to Hereford Cider Museum; Excursion to Ross on Wye & Malvern Hills

ROUTE: K9

LAVER REF: LBSS

departure date

ROUTE: 4+ S

SKILLS REF: SBEE

departure date

Sat 26 March

days (from) s/supp

4 £269 £60

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

Tours operated by Skills Holidays and Coachstyle. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room (standard inside twin cabin if applicable) and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.skills.co.uk for or refer to our brochures for full details or terms and conditions.* Calls cost 3p per mintue plus your network provider’s standard access charge. All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge

Must See Special Events for 2016

Skills have got a selection of specialised breaks that promise to keep you enthralled, entertained and immersed so why not bookit with Skills in 2016 and let us share in your special occasion. Below we’ve collated some of the best events across our brands and whilst some will be familiar to the regular customer, there are also some brand new dates to look forward to. This includes The Grand National at Aintree which joins the popular Ladies Day at Royal Ascot in our annual racing calendar and each year becomes the focus for the hopes and dreams of many thousands across the country. Our standard ticket includes entrance to the Steeplechase enclosure, the most popular on the day, whilst our upgraded tickets offer entrance to the Tattersall Stand which features the winner’s enclosure and parade ring. Also featured is André Rieu’s concert in Vienna. All of our André Rieu tours sold out in 2015 so if you’re hoping to see him and his Johann Strauss Orchestra live in the home of European classical music, book early to avoid disappointment!

25TH ANNIVERSARY AFTERNOON TEA PARTY Bucks fizz reception; Afternoon tea; Live Entertainment from violinist Victoria Yellop

LAVER SAVER - COSFORD AIR SHOW

from

HARROGATE FLOWER SHOW

March

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

1 DAY

£19.95 Friday 4

2 DAYS from

£99

YORKSHIRE SCARECROW FESTIVAL

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Free time in Worcester & full day at RAF Cosford Air show

Saturday 18 June

Free time in York; Entrance to the annual Scarecrow; Festival in Kettlewell.

ANDRE RIEU IN VIENNA

7 DAYS

BLUEBELLS AT KEW

from

2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route; 4 nights; dinner, bed & breakfast in resort Guided tour of Vienna, wine tasting, boat cruise and lunch; icket for the Andre Rieu Concert - (cat 4)

£629 Wednesday

GOOWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

3 DAYS

FAWLTY TOWERS

£229 Friday

1 nights dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions to Leeds & Hull; Themed evening at the Hotel

2 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions to Oxford and Windsor; Entrance & free time in Goodwood Festival of Speed

25 May

from

24 Jun

1 night’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursion to Windsor; Entrance to Kew Gardens

from

ST PATRICKS DAY IN IRELAND

23 Apr

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast Full day to enjoy St Patrick’s day in Dublin. Also a guided tour of Belfast

2 DAYS

£99 Saturday

from

THE GRAND NATIONAL AT AINTREE FT. LIVERPOOL

August

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Liverpool; Entrance into the Grand National

2 DAYS

£75 13 & 20

2 DAYS from

£99 16 & 23 April

2 DAYS from

£82

12th March & 15th Oct

LADIES DAY AT ROYAL ASCOT

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursion to London; Entrance into Silver Ring at Royal Ascot Ladies Day

THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; 1 night bed and breakfast; Excursions to Carlisle & gretna Green; Entrance to the Edinburgh Tattoo

4 DAYS from

£279 Wednesday 16 March

2 DAYS from

£139 Friday 8 April

2 DAYS from

£129 Wednesday 15 Jun

3 DAYS from

£219 5, 9, 12, 17

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

& 19 Aug

Holidays Ltd part of the Skills Group

Call for a free copy of your 2016 Summer Brochure!

This year promises to be extra-special for Laver Holidays which is celebrating it’s 25th Anniversary this March! Come along and join staff, family and friends to celebrate at an special Afternoon Tea Party at the De Vere Conference Centre in the East Midlands including entertainment and return coach travel. Call to book your place! Here we have enclosed a selection of some of the best Laver tours we have on offer this Spring. Look out for the return of our Laver Saver programme which whisks you away for luxury Laver 2-day breaks around the country as well as our ever-popular Laver Singles trips for those travelling alone. Remember, all trips over 2 days include Door-to-Door pickups!

THIS IS OUR 25TH ANNIVERSARY! To celebrate we’re inviting you to join us for an extra-special Afternoon Tea Party on 4th March Tickets cost £19.95 INCLUDED: Entertainment, Afternoon Tea, Local Pickups + return travel

OUT NOW: Request the NEW Laver 2016 brochure, call our team on 0845 666 5544* or 01509 236 500, visit us at one of our travel shops, visit LaverHolidays.co.uk or email enquiry@laverholidays.co.uk.

TOUR DIARY

date

destination

07-Mar 11-Mar 12-Mar 15-Mar 21-Mar 24-Mar 25-Mar 25-Mar 26-Mar 28-Mar

days

from

Spectacular Yorkshire Dales A Taste of the English Riviera Delightful Lancashire South Coast Explorer Singles - Yorkshire Coast Ft. Scarborough Easter in Sidmouth Easter Mystery Tour Easter in Sandown, Isle of Wight Easter in Shropshire Windermere Warmer

5 4 5 5 5 4 4 6 4 5

£369 £289 £429 £309 £369 £459 £279 £459 £279 £419

04-Apr 08-Apr 11-Apr 11-Apr 16-Apr 16-Apr 21-Apr 25-Apr 27-Apr

Discovering the Durham Dales Scarborough, York & Harrogate Lovely Ludlow & The Welsh Borders Singles - Loch Lomond, Arran & Bute Falkirk Wheel & Edinburgh Constable & Gainsborough Country Hampton Court & The Watercress Line Singles - Snowdonia & The Mersey Perranporth & Highlights of Cornwall

5 3 5 5 5 5 4 5 5

£419 £199 £389 £499 £389 £399 £409 £399 £399

02-May 02-May 09-May 12-May 16-May 21-May 30-May

Ilfracombe & North Devon Yorkshire Coast Ft. Scarborough Sunny South Ft Eastbourne Superb Sidmouth & South Devon Highlights of the Highlands Sandown, Isle of Wight Norfolk & The Broads

6 5 5 5 7 7 4

£439 £429 £389 £499 £619 £599 £319

01-Jun 03-Jun 06-Jun 07-Jun 13-Jun 13-Jun 20-Jun 20-Jun 20-Jun 24-Jun 27-Jun 27-Jun 27-Jun

Picture Perfect Suffolk Charming Conwy County Chartwell, Leeds & Hever Loch Lomond, Glasgow & Arran Warners’ Sinah Warren 1940s The Golden Years Picturesque Pembrokeshire Ft. Tenby Historic Canal Cruise Lakeland Cruising Scarborough, York & Harrogate Delightful Lancashire Eastbourne Ft. Sussex Gardens Best UK Coastal Resort - Bournemouth

5 4 5 6 5 5 5 4 5 3 5 5 5

£419 £409 £409 £509 £459 £369 £419 £639 £499 £199 £429 £389 £409

03-Jul 04-Jul 04-Jul 11-Jul 11-Jul 15-Jul 16-Jul 20-Jul 26-Jul

Grand Tour of Southern Ireland Isle of Man A Taste of the English Riviera Sandown, Isle of Wight North Yorkshire Moors Railway Cornish Delights Ft. St Ives & Falmouth Ilfracombe & North Devon Superb Sidmouth & South Devon Singles - Luxury in the Lowlands

8 5 5 5 4 5 7 6 6

£689 £529 £429 £439 £299 £459 £529 £639 £599

SPECTACULAR YORKSHIRE DALES

5 DAYS from £369

Yorkshire’s natural retreats are in abundance so prepare to be treated to some of the most stunning scenery in the UK.

INCLUDES

Luxury coach travel; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Visits to Clitheroe, Harrogate & Wensleydale Creamery; Yorkshire Dales excursion; Admission to Ripley Castle; Skipton Canal cruise.

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - We travel North through the Peak District and with a break in Glossop, we arrive at our hotel with time to relax before dinner. Day 2 - A circular tour through the Yorkshire Dales today featuring Settle, Ingleton, Hawes and Grassington. Our lunch stop today will be at Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes. Day 3 - We enjoy free time at Ripley Castle and Gardens this morning, a 700-year old castle steeped in history with stunning grounds, lakes,

HOTEL

Old Golf House Hotel, Huddersfield

This hotel, elegantly designed originally part of the prestigious Outlane Golf Club, is surrounded by three acres of beautiful grounds

A TASTE OF THE ENGLISH RIVIERA

a Deer park and Walled Gardens all waiting to be explored. This afternoon we have a short stop in the elegant spa town of Harrogate en route back to our hotel. Day 4 - A stop in Clitheroe this morning. We then travel to Skipton to enjoy a peaceful canal cruise where tea and biscuits are served on board as we gently drift along the beautfiul Yorkshire Dales. Day 5 - After a leisurely breakfast we head south, with a short stop in Buxton before returning to the Midlands.

LAVER REF: LXYD

departure date

Mon 7 Mar

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s /supp

£369 NIL

4 DAYS from £289

A warm welcome awaits you on the English Riviera, surrounded by breathtaking views from coast to country.

INCLUDES

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Welcome drink on arrival; Nightly entertainment; Excursions to Dawlish, Teignmouth, Brixham & Paignton; Admission to Paignton Zoo.

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - A steady ride south, with breaks in our journey, we reach the hotel with time to relax before dinner. Enjoy hotel entertainment each evening during your stay. Day 2 - We drive along the coast to Dawlish for lunchtime and then later, we spend an hour or so of our afternoon in Teignmouth. Day 3 - This morning we drive south to the harbour of Brixham for a morning coffee and maybe an early lunch before spending our

afternoon at the incredible and exotic Paignton Zoo. Day 4 - With one or two short breaks on our return, we are back in the Midlands by mid to late afternoon.

HOTEL

Headland Hotel, Torquay Set in 2-acres of grounds with breathtaking sea views. The highest rated 3* hotel in Torbay.

LAVER REF: LBTQ

departure date

Fri 11 Mar

ROUTE: J10

days (from) s/supp

£289 Nil

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

Tours operated by Laver Holidays Ltd. Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin room and are subject to availability. NIL single room supplements are limited. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call 0845 666 5544 , visit www.laverholidays.co.uk or see our current brochures for full details terms and conditions. *Calls cost 3p per minute plus your network provider’s access charge All credit card transactions are subject to a 2.5% charge.

DELIGHTFUL LANCASHIRE

5 DAYS from £429

Lancashire is a country of contrasting landscapes, heritage and plentiful food and drink - what’s not to love?

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - Following your departure we enjoy a coffee stop at Trentham Village before continuing our journey to Lancashire. Day 2 - Our morning is at leisure in Southport. You will have time to visit the Model Railway Village (entry not included) and grab an early lunch before departing for the nearby Martin Mere Wetland Centre. Martin Mere is a world-class nature reserve. Day 3 - A circular tour today with some stunning countryside scenery as well as

HOTEL

Dalmeny Hotel, Lytham St. Anne’s Situated on the main promenade opposite a sandy beach and overlooking the pier.

SCARBOROUGH, YORK & HARROGATE

INCLUDES

Luxury coach travel; 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Liverpool; Mersey Ferry; Admission to The Beatles Story; City explorer ticket. coastal resorts! First to Clitheroe for a coffee stop, then to Morecambe for lunchtime and our afternoon is spent at leisure in Blackpool. Day 4 - This morning we visit ‘The Chocolate House’ where you can witness handmade chocolates being created (with samples and refreshments). Later, after a lunchtime call at Oswaldtwistle Mills we visit Samlesbury Hall. Here, with have arranged cream tea. Day 5 - After a leisurely breakfast we begin our journey home with a lunch break in pretty Nantwich along the way.

LAVER REF: LXDL

departure date

Sat 12 Mar

ROUTE: X2

days (from) s /supp

£429 £60

3 DAYS from £199

Lazy days on this Lazy Break! Minimal mileage and maximum enjoyment – with wonderful variety throughout.

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - We head north for a long lunch break in York, rich in ancient history, romantic ambience and fun activities. Renowned for its exquisite architecture, tangle of quaint cobbled streets, iconic Minster and wealth of visitor atrtractions, York is a flourishing city. Delve into the city’s vibrant cafe culture, take time out to enjoy some of the country’s most talented street entertainers or simply watch the world go by while sipping a drink by the river. Later we continue to our hotel.

HOTEL

Clifton Hotel, Scarborough With captivating views across the North Sea. it is the perfect coastal base for Scarborough.

PERRANPORTH & THE HIGHLIGHTS OF CORNWALL

Day 2 - Today you have a free day in Scarborough - one of the UK’s top tourist destinations! Scarborough really does have it all; dramatic cliffs and castle headland, award - winning beaches, historic harbour, a town centre and a warm Yorkshire welcome. Day 3 - Travelling south to Harrogate for a morning at leisure. This town’s elegance and style draws from its 18th century history, when it became the spa town of choice for its wealthy visitors. It has left a legacy of extravgant hotels, green open spaces and beautiful parks and gardens. A spot of shopping, a leisurely lunch, a wander through the gardens, you will soon find yourself slowing down to enjoy the leisurely pace of this relaxed town.

LAVER REF: LBSC

departure date

Fri 08 Apr

ROUTE: R3

days (from) s /supp

£199 £21

5 DAYS from £399

INCLUDES

HOTEL

Best Western Lancashire Manor Hotel

This beautiful 16th century country-style manor house is in a tranquil area away from town.

CONSTABLE & GAINSBOROUGH COUNTRY

LAVER REF: LSVL

departure date

Sat 02 Apr

ROUTE: N2/N5

days (from) s/supp

£119 £10

5 DAYS from £399

Luxury coach travel; 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Guided tour on two days; Afternoon tea on Day 2 in hotel; Excursion to Aldeburgh, Southwold & Colchester

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - Lunchtime is in the university city of Cambridge, followed by a short break in Haverhill. We then continue to our hotel for a four night stay. Days 2 & 3 - Over the course of these two days we will be accompanied by a local tour guide who will undoubtedly make the most of our time in East Anglia. We will visit Constable’s birthplace, East Bergholt - plus Dedham and Flatford Mill. We will visit Bury St. Edmunds and Abbey Gardens as well as the Angel Hotel where Dickens had Mrs Pickwick stay.

HOTEL

Legacy Mill Hotel, Sudbury Originally a working water mill, this converted historic building now boasts a contempory interior

HAMPTON COURT & THE WATERCRESS LINE

The painted cottages of Lavenham and Cavendish are also included and there’s even time to visit Clacton-On-Sea for a breath of fresh air! We return to the hotel on the afternoon of Day 2 for Afternoon Tea overlooking the meadows! Day 4 - We head for the picturesque seaside villages of Aldeburgh and Southwold today, with an hour or so in ancient Colchester before returning to our hotel. Day 5 - Through the Essex countryside into Hertfordshire, with a lunchtime call in the small market town of Hitchin. From there we return via Bedford and Northampton to the East Midlands.

LAVER REF: LXCO

departure date

Sat 16 Apr

ROUTE: E10

days (from) s/supp

£399 £60

4 DAYS from £409

Ride the Watercress Line - and view Hampton Court Palace from land and river on this unusual short break.

INCLUDES

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Visit to Looe & admission to Lanhydrock & Glendurgan Garden; Visit to Newquay, St. Austell Brewery & Perranporth; Door - to - Door service.

DURING YOUR STAY

become the greatest band of all time. Day 2 - After breakfast the coach will drop you off at Liverpool’s Albert Dock, and you will be given your City Explorer ticket. These will allow you to hop-on and hop-off at any of the 12 stops along the 1-hour open-top bus route around this fascinating city of culture. We leave for home around midafternoon.

INCLUDES

The ‘Hotel on the Beach!’ A great location and an extremely popular hotel with our customers for many years!

Day 1 - With regular breaks in our journey, we arrive at the hotel in good time to relax before dinner. Day 2 - Today we visit the twin towns of East and West Looe - a delightful place to spend a morning! Our afternoon is spent at National Trust’s Lanhydrock House, a magnificent late Victorian country house with acres of beautiful gardens. Discover two sides of Victorian life: from the kitchen s, nurseries and servants’ quarters to the luxurious family areas, elegant dining room and spacious

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - We arrive in Seacombe, to join the ‘Ferry Across the Mersey’ to Pier Head, where we visit The Beatles Story. This award-winning attraction is an unforgettable journey through the lives, times and music of the famous four. Go behind the scenes at Abbey Road Studios and take an underwater trip on the Yellow Submarine and discover how four young boys from Liverpool were propelled to the dizzy heights of worldwide fame and fortune to

Providing dramatic open spaces, woodland and picturesque waterways the scenic Suffolk landscape has fired the creative heart of artists.

INCLUDES

2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursions to Scarborough, York and Harrogate; Door-to-Door Service.

2 DAYS from £119

A city of culture and heritage offering unrivalled attractions and exciting events all year round.

INCLUDES

Luxury coach travel (Club Class); 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursions to Clitheroe, Morecambe, Blackpool & Southport; Admission to the Chocolate House; Afternoon Tea at Samlesbury Hall.

LAVER SAVER - VIBRANT LIVERPOOL

Luxury coach travel; 3 nights’ dinner bed & breakfast; Visits to Windsor & Winchester; Thames River Cruise; Steam train journey; Admission to Hampton Court Palace;

DURING YOUR STAY

bedrooms. Make sure you take a stroll around the extensive gardens, anicient woodlands and tranquil riverside paths. Day 3 - A free morning. Later we visit National Trust’s Glendurgan Garden. Walk along through the peaceful, exotic valley to the sheltered beach at the bottom of Glendurgan Garden is full of natural beauty and amazing plants. Day 4 - We travel to Newquay and St. Austell’s brewery to sample some traditional Cornish fare. Day 5 - We depart home.

Day 1 - We have a lunchtime break in Banbury and continue to our hotel. Day 2 - We have the morning and lunchtime at the historic and very beautiful Hampton Court Palace and Gardens, once home to Henry VIII and now offering lifelike experiences beyond his wildest dreams! Later, we enjoy a relaxing cruise along the River Thames, from Hampton Court to Richmond, offering fine views of the palace from the water.

LAVER REF: LBPR

4* Best Western Reading Moat House

Ponsmere Hotel, Perranporth

departure date

The hotel offers comfortable lounges, indoor pool, beachside location and en suite bedrooms.

Wed 27 April Mon 26 Sep

ROUTE: B11

days (from) s /supp

5 5

£399 £20 £399 £20

Day 3 - We travel to Alton where we board the Watercress Line for a steam train journey to New Alresford. Time here for refreshments before we move on to the city of Winchester for lunchtime and a free afternoon. Day 4 - We follow the Thames into Royal Windsor for a morning at leisure. There is ample time to visit the magnificent castle or explore the quaint narrow streets of the old town. With just one short stop on our return north, we arrive in the midlands for teatime.

HOTEL

Overlooking the River Loddon, this 4* Hotel successfully combines the individual elegance of a modern hotel with the charm of a 19th century mill house.

LAVER REF: LBSA

departure date

Thurs 21 Apr

ROUTE: CALL

days (from) s/supp

£409 £45

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

KILLARNEY & THE RING OF KERRY

6 DAYS from £419

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

INCLUDES

Each year Skills Holidays aim to offer you the best in luxury coach exploration and touring across Britain and Europe and 2016 is no different. This year we’re travelling even further than ever before and our packed itinerary includes incredible destinations as far as Croatia, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Here we have included some of the best trips the Skills brand has to offer this Spring including a brand new tour to Ancient Rome and a remarkable exploration of thousands of years of Great British History with Iconic Sights of England featuring Stonehenge and Bath. Wherever you decide to visit this year travel with Skills and you’re guaranteed to be in the capable hands of one of our experienced drivers so all you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.

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

DURING 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.

HOTEL

Treacy’s Hotel, Waterford OR Holiday Inn, Killarney OR Regency Hotel, Dublin

OUT NOW: Request the NEW Skills 2016 brochure, call our team on 0845 666 BELFAST: THE LEGEND OF THE 5544* or 01509 236 500, visit us at one of our travel shops, visit skills.co.uk TITANIC & THE GIANTS CAUSEWAY or email enquiry@skills.co.uk. See the iconic shipbuilding site of the Titanic

SKILLS REF: SCRK

departure date

Sat 02 Apr Sun 02 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ N

days (from) s /supp

6 6

£419 £80 £419 £80

4 DAYS from £299

and step in the footsteps of Giant’s on the basalt outcrop of the famous Giant’s Causeway.

TOUR DIARY

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 vegetation awaits us with a free morning in Killarney. 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.

date

destination

days

from

12-Feb 13-Feb 19-Feb 20-Feb 27-Feb 29-Feb

Mini Cruise - Amsterdam Valentines Weekend Menton Lemon Festival (French Riviera) Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park Settle to Carlisle Railway Warner Village - Bodelwyddan Castle

3 2 7 2 2 5

£109 £99 £609 £99 £119 £269

04-Mar 07-Mar 11-Mar 16-Mar 19-Mar 20-Mar 24-Mar 25-Mar 25-Mar 25-Mar 26-Mar 26-Mar 27-Mar 28-Mar 28-Mar

Mini Cruise - Bruges 3 Scottish Borders ft The Lake District 5 Amsterdam 4 St Patrick’s Day in Ireland 4 Imperial War Musuem & Bletchley Park 2 The Wardolf: 5* Luxury in London 2 Easter on Lake Como Ft The Bernina Railway 9 Mini Cruise - Amsterdam 3 Cheshire Gardens at Easter 4 Easter Eggstravaganza - Murder Mystery & Casino Night 3 An Easter Tale of Three Shires 4 Easter in Yorkshire ft North Yorkshire Moors Railway 4 Swiss Alps Ft The Matterhorn & Mont Blanc 8 All Inclusive Llanberis & Snowdonia 5 Cornish Gems: Newquay, St Ives & Padstow 5

£109 £289 £279 £279 £99 £159 £789 £129 £279 £249 £269 £235 £629 £319 £369

01-Apr 02-Apr 02-Apr 04-Apr 06-Apr 08-Apr 08-Apr 11-Apr 15-Apr 16-Apr 16-Apr 18-Apr 22-Apr 23-Apr 23-Apr 23-Apr 24-Apr 29-Apr 29-Apr

Mini Cruise - Keukenhof Gardens 3 Killarney & The Ring of Kerry 6 Spa Break: Park Hall 2 Stunningly Royal Scotland 5 Isle of Man 5 Mini Cruise - Bruges 3 The Grand National at Aintree 2 Paignton & The English Riviera 5 Mini Cruise - Amsterdam 3 Bluebells & Orchids at Kew 2 Delights of Shropshire: Severn Valley Railway & Shrewsbury 2 Belfast: Legend of the Titanic & Giant’s Causeway 4 All Inclusive Austrian Tyrol 8 Settle to Carlisle Railway 2 Harrogate Flower Show 2 Bluebells & Orchids at Kew 2 The Wardolf: 5* Luxury in London 2 Debonair Darlington 4 Berlin 7

£139 £419 £99 £369 £419 £129 £139 £269 £129 £99 £99 £299 £565 £119 £99 £99 £159 £269 £479

02-May 06-May 07-May 09-May 14-May 16-May

Fairytale Gardens of North Wales Delightful Belgium Railways & Waterways Iconic Sights of England ft Stonehenge Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park Brighton & The Sussex Coast

£319 £275 £99 £299 £99 £399

5 4 2 5 2 5

INCLUDES

3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast in resort; Entrance to the Titanic Belfast; Dock & Pump House; Guided tour of Belfast; (Optional Giant’s Causeway £10pp)

SKILLS REF: SCTI

HOTEL

departure date

Located in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast City; close to the Titanic Quarter..

Mon 18 Apr

Ramada Encore Belfast City Centre

BERLIN

The Capital of Germany is widely regarded as one of the bes tin Europe and hase a unique history.

ROUTE: 4+ N

days (from) s /supp

£299 £75

7 DAYS from £479

INCLUDES

2 nights’ bed & breakfast en-route 4 nights’ bed & breakfast in resort Guided tour & free time in Berlin Half day excursion to Potsdam

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 & U-Bahn links across the city

THE LOIRE VALLEY: CHATEAU’S & WINE

SKILLS REF: SCBE

departure date

Fri 29 Apr

ROUTE: 4+ S

days (from) s /supp

£479 £135

6 DAYS from £649

Old-town villages, rich vineyards and beautiful lush valleys.

INCLUDES

2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast en-route; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in main hotel Entrance to the castle & gardens of Villandry; River boat cruise

HOTEL

Le Grand Hotel de Tours Le Clerc. France

This early 20th-century hotel offers Art Deco style guest rooms.

ROCAMADOUR & THE PICTURESQUE DORDOGNE

SKILLS REF: SCLV

departure date

Tue 12 Jul

ROUTE: 4+ S

days (from) s /supp

£649 £110

6 DAYS from £619

One of the most breathaking destinations in France, prepare to be captivated.

INCLUDES

2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast en-route 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast in resort Visit Orleans & Orleans Cathedral

HOTEL

Manoir du Grande Vignoble

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

SKILLS REF: SCDD

departure date

Sun 14th Aug

ROUTE: SPEC

days (from) s /supp

£619 £100

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

SCOTTISH BORDERS FT. THE LAKE DISTRICT

5 DAYS from £289

INCLUDES

4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions to St Ives & Padstow; Free time in Newquay

INCLUDES

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 -Travel to Gretna Green where a welcome tea or coffee will be waiting for us at the hotel. Day 2 - Today we travel to Dumfries with a visit to the Robbie Burns Centre. From here we make our way to Threave

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.

STUNNINGLY ROYAL SCOTLAND

Gardens. Day 3 - Today we drive into the Lake District as we make our way to Keswick for time to explore. 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 travel home. SKILLS REF: SBSU

departure date

Mon 07 Mar Mon 24 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ N

days (from) s/supp

5 5

£289 NIL £289 NIL

5 DAYS from £369

Day 1 - We travel north to Pitlochry for a four night stay. Day 2 - We visit Edinburgh. Day 3 - After breakfast, we travel to Glamis

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.

PAIGNTON & THE ENGLISH RIVIERA

Castle. Afterwards we travel to Blair Athol Distillery for a guided tour. Day 4 - Today we visit St Andrews, reowned as a place of history, culture and golf and advertising a town motto. 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, with a bustling shopping centre. Day 5 - We return home. SKILLS REF: SBSC

departure date

Mon 04 Apr Mon 10 Oct

ROUTE: 4+ N

days (from) s /supp

5 £369 NIL 5 £369 NIL

5 DAYS from £269

INCLUDES

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - We arrive at our resort in Paignton. Day 2 - Today we visit Cornwall for a visit to two of the prettiest Cornish Towns, Looe & Polperro. Day 3 - After breakfast you are at leisure to enjoy the local area, relax on the pristine beach, hire a boat and glide along

HOTEL

the ocean, wander around the town centre or take a trip to Paignton Zoo! its entirely up to you. 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.

SKILLS REF: SBCG

Best Western Hotel Bristol Newquay

departure date

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

Mon 28 Mar Mon 03 Oct

ANCIENT ROME & THE VATICAN CITY

ROUTE: 4+ S

days (from) s/supp

5 5

£369 £76 £369 £76

12 DAYS from £989

2 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast en-route; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in Rome; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast in Abruzzi; Guided tour of Rome & the Eternal City; Day 5 - Guided tour of the Vatican City Guided tour of Lanciano & the coast; with a visit to the Sistine Chapel. Excursions to Civitella del Tronto & Atri Day 6 - Our guide takes us for a tour around the spectacular Colosseum - the DURING YOUR STAY most renowned symbol of Rome. Later Day 1-2 - Travel. on today, we travel to Abruzzo for a 4 Day 3 - Arrival at our hotel in Rome. night stay. Day 4 - Guided tour of Rome. with stops at Day 7 - Explore Abruzzo at your own Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Castel Sant’ leisure. Angela bridge & the famous Piazza Navona. Day 8 - We visit Lanciano with a guided tour Day 9 - Excursion to Civitella del Tronto HOTEL then on to Atri . Hotel in Rome will be the Best Day 10 - 12 - Return home. Western Arthotel Noba OR Hotel GH Fleming. Hotel in Abruzzo is ROUTE: 4+ S SKILLS REF: SCRO departure date days (from) s/supp Hotel Montesilvano Wed 01 June 12 £989 £225

ICONIC SIGHTS OF ENGLAND FT STONEHENGE & ROMAN BATH

INCLUDES

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

DURING 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 &

HOTEL

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.

HOTEL

beach, harbour and a selection of ftrinket 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.

5 DAYS from £299

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 stories to reveal the secrets of its past.

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

Day 1 - We travel south until we reach Cornwall. Day 2 - We head to St Ives, widely regarded to 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 (not included). With a beautiful

INCLUDES

DURING YOUR STAY

The eternal city of Rome intertwines a myriad of fountains, historic churches, iconic buildings and the Vatican City all on its historic ‘seven-hills’.

Magnificent castles stand proud at the foot of cobbled streets and breath-taking scenery. Discover Scotland’s crownjewelled past as we visit castles, towns and cities that have stolen the Royal Family’s heart. 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Glamis Castle & St Andrews; Free time in Edinburgh & Perth; Visit to the Blair Athol Distillery

5 DAYS from £369

Cornwall is best known for its outstanding natural beauty and stunning coastlines. Relax and gently explore the real beauty the area has to offer.

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.

4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Visit to Robbie Burns Centre; Free time in Dumfries; Excursions to Threave Gardens, the Lake District & Devil’s Porridge Museum.

CORNISH GEMS FT. NEWQUAY, ST IVES & PADSTOW

SKILLS REF: SBPA

departure date

Mon 11 Apr Mon 06 Jun Mon 26 Sept

ROUTE: 4+ S days (from) s /supp

5 5 5

£269 NIL £289 NIL £279 NIL

The New Country Hotel, Gloucester This three star contemporary hotel boasts stylish rooms in a central location.

Salisbury Day 3 - We visit Bradford-on-Avon and Devizes, these charming market towns provide visitors with a wonderful setting to discover a range of independant shops offering goods and local produce. Day 4 - After breakfast, we head to the Georgian city of Bath. 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 Tewkesbury for free time, we then continue our journey home. SKILLS REF: SBBS

departure date

Mon 09 May

ROUTE: 4+ S

days (from) s/supp

£299 £60

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

HEART OF ENGLAND

4 DAYS from £189

Discover the timeless landscapes and heritage of the Heart of England. Beautiful countryside, tudor houses & medieval castles

INCLUDES

3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Warwick, Ludlow, Worcester

HOTEL

The Whitehouse Hotel

Our CoachStyle brand offers fantastic value for money on a wide range of destinations throughout the UK and Europe. CoachStyle’s trips are often shorter in length than those on Skills and Laver and aim to pack as much fun as possible into every tour, making them perfect short getaways for all the family! In 2016, CoachStyle’s itinerary includes old favourites like ‘London & Harry Potter’, ‘The Rhine Valley’ and ‘London Theatre Break Weekends’ but also sees outstanding brand new content including £49.95 ‘Mystery Explorers’ and trips to WIlliam the Conqueror’s Medieval Normandy. OUT NOW: Request the NEW CoachStyle 2016 brochure, call our team on 0845 666 5544* or 01509 236 500, visit us at one of our travel shops, visit skills.co.uk or email enquiry@skills.co.uk.

TOUR DIARY

date

destination

days

from

05-Feb 06-Feb 12-Feb 13-Feb 20-Feb 20-Feb 27-Feb 27-Feb 27-Feb

Rhineland Carnivals London Theatre Break Weekend Valentines at the World Famous Adelphi Hotel London Theatre Break Weekend Cardiff & Bristol London Theatre Break Weekend London & Harry Potter London Theatre Break Weekend - Premium Winter Warmers York Ft. Whitby

5 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 2

£249 £115 £139 £135 £65 £135 £119 £199 £69

05-Mar 05-Mar 11-Mar 12-Mar 12-Mar 12-Mar 14-Mar 18-Mar 18-Mar 19-Mar 19-Mar 21-Mar 25-Mar 25-Mar 26-Mar

Dr Who Experience London & Cambridge Harrogate Fawlty Towers Leeds & Manchester London Theatre Break Weekend Weymouth A Weekend at the Adelphi Scarborough, Whitby & Bridlington London Theatre Break Weekend Winter Warmers Worcester Isle of Wight Island Tour Ft. Ryde Easter in Torquay A Welsh Easter in Llandudno London Theatre Break Weekend - Premium

2 2 2 2 2 2 5 3 4 2 2 5 4 4 2

£89 £65 £69 £82 £72 £119 £175 £139 £149 £125 £69 £179 £165 £179 £209

02-Apr 02-Apr 02-Apr 04-Apr 04-Apr 08-Apr 09-Apr 09-Apr 09-Apr 09-Apr 11-Apr 11-Apr 16-Apr 16-Apr 16-Apr 18-Apr 18-Apr 18-Apr 22-Apr 23-Apr 25-Apr 29-Apr 30-Apr 30-Apr 30-Apr

London & Greenwich London Theatre Break Weekend Oxford & Blenheim Palace Rhine Valley Ilfracombe Ft. Exmoor National Park Villages Heart of England Murder Mystery Cotswolds & Bath London Theatre Break Weekend Mystery Explorer Tours North Wales Explorer Ft. Llandudno St Ives London & Harry Potter London Theatre Break Weekend York & Skipton Isle of Wight Island Tour Ft. Ryde Lytham St Annes Ft. Southport & Blackpool Pretty Pembrokeshire Exploring Britain’s Magical Waterland London Theatre Break Weekend Bournemouth A Weekend at the Adelphi London & Cambridge Upgraded London Theatre Break Tower of London Ft. Banqueting House

2 2 2 5 5 4 2 2 2 2 5 5 2 2 2 5 4 5 4 2 5 3 2 2 2

£69 £139 £89 £199 £215 £189 £79 £77 £119 £49.95 £229 £229 £119 £119 £75 £199 £189 £219 £189 £115 £209 £139 £65 £209 £99

Located in the heart of Shropshire, it is the perfect base for our trip.

LONDON & GREENWICH

COACHSTYLE REF: CBHE ROUTE: 4+ S

departure date

Fri 08 April Fri 24 June

days (from) s /supp

4 £189 £50 4 £199 £45

2 DAYS from £69

Combining the buzzing atmosphere and attractions of the city of London with time to explore in Maritime Greenwich.

INCLUDES

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast Excursions to London and Greenwich

COACHSTYLE REF: CBLG ROUTE: 2/3 S

HOTEL

departure date

Set at the entrance to Knebworth Park, this relaxed, modern hotel is 2 miles from Fairlands Valley Park.

Sat 02 Apr Sat 04 Jun Sat 06 Aug

Novotel Stevenage

YORK & SKIPTON Join us for some medieval mayhem as we combine the grand architecture and thrills of York with the delightful market town of Skipton.

days (from) s /supp

2 2 2

£69 £15 £69 £15 £69 £15

2 DAYS from £75

INCLUDES

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast; Free time in York & Skipton

HOTEL

Hotel Campanile, Bradford

Relax at this basic but modern hotel which is 3.5 miles from Bradford town centre and 11 miles from Leeds Bradford International Airport.

HARROGATE

COACHSTYLE REF: CBLE departure date

Sat 16 Apr Sat 25 Jun

ROUTE: D

days (from) s/supp

2 2

£75 £12 £75 £12

3 DAYS from £139

Harrogate is one of Yorkshire’s most elegant destinations best known for its cobbled streets & beautiful gardens.

INCLUDES

1 night bed & breakfast; Free time in Harrogate

HOTEL

The Kimberley Hotel, Harrogate

Located 2 blocks from the Harrogate International Centre, this laid-back hotel occupies 5 adjoining Victorian townhouses.

ROUEN: MEDIEVAL NORMANDY

COACHSTYLE REF: CBHG

ROUTE: 2/3

Fri 11 Mar Fri 13 May

£69 £15 £69 £15

departure date

days (from) s /supp

2 2

4 DAYS from £175

Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging destinations, witness soaring Gothic buildings and a beautifully restored medieval quarter that all bears the secrets of the town’s rich and turbulent history.

INCLUDES 3 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Free time in Rouen; Excursions to Honfleur & Deauville

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - After our ferry crossing, we drive south to Rouen and arrive at our hotel. Day 2 - Enjoy today at leisure. Walk along Rouen’s cobbled streets and admire the magnificent buildings from the Halls of

Justice to the Great Clock. Walk a little further and you will discover the market square. Day 3 - We travel to Honfleur with history hidden around every corner. Afterwards we visit Deauville, a beautiful seaside resort that oozes style, enjoy the elegant boutiques and restaurants before walking along its beach. Day 4 - We return home.

HOTEL

Ibis Rouen Centre Rive Droite Located a 20-minute walk from the centre this hotel offers a friendly welcome and an enjoyable stay.

COACHSTYLE REF: CCRO

ROUTE: 4+ S

Mon 16 May

£175 £65

departure date

days (from) s /supp

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

WINTER WARMERS WORCESTER

2 DAYS from £69

INCLUDES

1 night dinner, bed & breakfast; Free time in Birmingham & Worcester

INCLUDES

DURING YOUR STAY

4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursion to Whitstable, Canterbury & Folkestone; Free time in Hythe

Day 1 - Travel to Birmingham’s Bull Ring for an afternoon of carefree retail therapy. Day 2 - Visit Worcester . The magnificent Cathedral is set against the charm of the Tudor Houses along Friar Street.

HOTEL

Best Western Stade Court Hotel, Hythe

HOTEL

Park Inn Birmingham, Walsall

WARWICK FT SHAKESPARE’S STRATFORD

COACHSTYLE REF: CBWWROUTE: 2/3 S

departure date

Sat 19 Mar

days (from) s /supp

2 DAYS from £71

LYTHAM ST ANNES Become a coast to coast explorer as we visit three of the UK’s most cherished seaside resorts: Blackpool, Southport and of course, Lytham St. Annes. Full of nostalgia, this tour makes the most of the Great British Seaside tradition and is a perfect getaway for family and friends alike.

INCLUDES

3 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; Excursions to Lytham St. Anne’s and Southport; Free time in Blackpool.

HOTEL

Georgian Hollies Hotel, Blackpool Located in the heart of Blackpool, just a five minute walk from the famous Blackpool Tower this hotel offers a friendly welcome.

Mon 02 May Mon 01 Aug

days (from) s /supp

5 £199 £60 5 £199 £60

5 DAYS from £229

INCLUDES

DURING YOUR STAY

Set on the outskirts of Leamington Spa, this straightforward hotel is a mile from Leamington Spa railway station, 2.1 miles from Warwick Castle and 2.5 miles from Warwick Racecourse. Enjoy your stay with these relaxed and modern rooms.

COACHSTYLE REF: CBFO ROUTE: 4+ S

departure date

4 nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast; 2 nights’ entertainment

1 night dinner, bed and breakfast Free time in Warwick & Stratford-UponAvon

HOTEL

NORTH WALES EXPLORER FT LLANDUDNO

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - From your local pick up we travel to Hythe for a four night stay. Day 2 - Visit to Whitstable and Canterbury. Why not try an oyster in Whitstable (collected in the area since Roman Times) and take in Canterbury Cathedral. Day 3 - Free time in Hythe or visit Romney Marsh which features 100 square miles of unspoilt countryside, woodland, wetlands and shingle shores. Day 4 - Visit to the harbour town of Folkestone. Day 5 - Return home.

North Wales boasts some of Britain’s most beautiful scenery. Nestled between two glistening beaches.

INCLUDES

Holiday Inn Leamington Spa

Opposite Hythe beaches, the Best Western Stade Court Hotel offers a comfortable stay. , This traditional hotel built in 1939 is a 9-minute walk from Hythe town centre

£69 £15

Step back in time and discover the medieval charm of Olde England in these two beautiful market towns steeped in over one hundred years of history and culture.

Day 1 - Travel to Warwick for free time. Home to the ‘best medieval castle in

5 DAYS from £199

Towering white cliffs and romantic shores are backed by areas of unspoilt countryside. Described as the Garden Coast, this corner of Kent combines breath taking landscapes with a rich and unique history.

No need to wrap up as we head to Birmingham’s Bull Ring, the perfect opportunity for some guilt free purchases before free time in Worcester.

Off the M6 motorway, this straightforward, modern hotel in Walsall is also 6 miles from the Black Country Living Museum and 7 miles from Dudley Zoo.

FOLKESTONE, HYTHE & ROMNEY MARSH

Britain’ as well as beautiful gardens, gift shops and traditional tea rooms. Day 2 - Visit to Stratford-Upon-Avon. The birthplace of William Shakespare is a popular tourist attaction and plays hosts to thousands of the Bard’s fans every year. COACHSTYLE REF: CBWS ROUTE: 2/3 S

departure date

Sat 30 Apr Sat 09 Jul Sat 27 Aug

days (from) s/supp

2 2 2

£71 £15 £71 £15 £71 £15

4 DAYS from £189

Day 1 - Travel to Llandudno for a 4 night dinner, bed and breakfast stay. Day 2 - A full day excursion to Snowdonia National Park. Visit Llanberis, the gateway to Mount Snowdon, and Betws-YCowd, situated in dense woodland and

HOTEL

Chatsworth House Hotel, Llandudno This 19th-century hotel facing the sea and Llandudno’s promenade is 6 minutes’ walk from Llandudno railway station, 12 minutes’ walk from the Victorian Llandudno Pier and 0.6 miles from the Great Orme Tramway.

TOWNS OF NORMANDY

surrounded by picturesque waterfalls. Day 3 - Free time in Llandudno. Day 4 - Visit to Conwy and Caernarfon. These medieval walled towns have impeccably preserved their history and are part of a dedicated World Heritage Site. Day 5 - Return home. COACHSTYLE REF: CBLL ROUTE: 4+ N

departure date

Mon 11 Apr Mon 20 Jun

days (from) s/supp

5 £229 NIL 5 £239 NIL

4 DAYS from £199

It was in the 11th Century that William the Conqueror founded Caen and it soome became a thriving Medieval port, surrounding by towns which became infamous as Norman strongholds. Follow the Conqueror’s footsteps on this tour and delve deep into French history.

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 - Travel to Blackpool today for a three night stay. Day 2 - Today visit Lytham St Annes, the Royal Horticultural Society recently said; ‘it is one of the greenest, cleanest and most beautiful places in Britain.’ Day 3 -After breakfast travel to Southport, wander along one of the oldest piers in the UK, stretch your legs along the sand or enjoy one of its traditional markets. Day 4 - The morning is yours to explore everyone’s favourite seaside resort, Blackpool! Later this afternoon begin your journey home.

COACHSTYLE REF: CBLY ROUTE: 4+ N

departure date

Mon 18 Apr Fri 12 Aug

days (from) s /supp

4 £189 NIL 4 £189 NIL

INCLUDES

Return ferry sailing; 3 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Excursions to Bayeux, Lisieux & Trouville

DURING YOUR STAY

Day 1 – We cross the channel via ferry and continue to the hotel in Caen,

HOTEL

Hotel Crocus Memorial, Caen A 13-minute walk from Mémorial de Caen’s history center exploring WWII and the Normandy landings, this unpretentious hotel in a converted home is 6 km from the Université de Caen Basse-Normandie and Château de Caen’s ruins.

Day 2 – Arrive in the historic town of Bayeux, dominated by a splendid Cathedral and historic reminders of William the Conqueror’s reign however, it is a visit to the Bayeux tapestry depicting the Normal conquest of England in 1066 that is the highlight for most visitors. Later we visit Caen, one of the oldest towns in France. Day 3 – Today we take you to Lisieux, afterwards we visit Trouville. Day 4 - We travel home. COACHSTYLE REF: CCCN ROUTE: 4+ S

departure date

Mon 12 Sep

days (from) s /supp

4 £199 £48

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

MONTHLY SHOP COFFEE MORNINGS

Following the success of our first special coffee mornings in November and December, we’re pleased to announce that this year all of our stores will be hosting one coffee morning every month. From our experience, our happiest customers are the ones who have good relationships with their local shop team who are always on hand to answer any questions. Once our knowledgeable staff know your tastes, they can then recommend trips based on what they like (and can also let you know of any cheap special deals, short day trips or last minute seats which might take your fancy!) So come along for a coffee and meet your local shop team who would love to help!

T: 01159 507 982

NOTTINGHAM

Our Nottingham team is made of Wendy, Julie, Sarah and Daisy and they are based on Mansfield Road, just opposite the Victoria Centre Bus Station. Parking available in Victoria Centre. Next coffee morning: 10am-2pm Tuesday 8th March (then every 8 weeks)

DERBY

Recommend a friend and get £20 off your next booking! At Skills we appreciate that we’d be nothing without our dedicated return passenger who often spread the word about their trips onto friends and family. Next time a friend books with Skills for the first time as a result of your recommendation, just let us know and we will send you a £20 voucher to say thank you. *Passenger must not have travelled on any of our brands previously. Terms and Conditions apply.

DEAL OF THE DAY

Our Derby team Jackie and Hayley are based in the heart of Derby’s Eagle Centre Market, just around the corner of the bus station. Parking is available in the Intu centre. Next coffee morning: 10am-2pm Wednesday 3rd Feb (first Wednesday of every month)

LOUGHBOROUGH Our Loughborough team are Linda and Anita nand their Laver shop on Swan Street is just around the corner from the cinema and The Rushes (Car parking available at Carillion Court) Next coffee morning: 10am-2pm Thursday 11th Feb (second Thursday of every month)

BEESTON

Our Beeston Worldwide Travel team Charlotte, Laura and Jo specialise in tailored packages to anywhere in the world! Free parking at Wilmot Lane car park. Next coffee morning: 10am-2pm Tuesday 2nd Feb (first Tuesday of every month)

BULWELL Located at our Head Office in Bulwell, our friendly team Tahlia and Louise are always happy to help and our free car parking makes our HQ a convenient location to book!

Each day we have brand new offers in all of our branches and we regularly rotate our discounts to make sure all of our passengers have the chance to go on our newest and best tours. Call today to find an offer for you.

0845 666 55 44*

WIN

Book on any 2016 Easter Tour and be in with a chance to win an Easter Hamper

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