Autumn, Festive & Spring 2020/2021 Holiday Brochure

AUTUMN, FESTIVE & SPRING 2020/2021

PE O R EU & AY N I D I L TA HO BRI H RES AC U O T C VEN D A

S, K A BRE E HTS TIV S G E I F TY N R EAR PA Y EW N &

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Welcome to our Skills Holidays Autumn, Festive & Spring 2020/2021 Collection...

Happy passengers infront of the Coca Cola London Eye Š Sebastian Sean Owczarek

Hello and welcome to our brand new Autum, Festive and Spring holiday collection. Where you can discover our full range of holidays and destinations departing between November 2020 and May 2021.

Our Skills brand has an award-winning choice of breaks across Great Britain and Europe. We cover every type of adventure from Christmas markets, spectacular events and party breaks, through to tours of the highlights of Europe.

Using a blend of new tours with traditional customer favourites, our planners have worked hard to produce a choice that we hope will provide something for everyone whether you are one of our regular loyal passengers, or new to the Skills Group.

I look forward to welcoming you on board soon,

Nigel Skill, Skills Group Chairman

How to book ...

CALL US 08456 66 55 44* CALL IN to one of our friendly holiday shops, or any good travel agent.

GO ONLINE book any time, any day at WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

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Price Promise

Our Sister Holiday Brands...

Once you have secured your place on one of our great holidays by paying a deposit, we guarantee your price.

Early bookers not only benefit from the best prices, but get the best choice of seats, so it really does pay to plan ahead.

Premium Seats For a small supplement you can secure the best view on the coach as well as the shortest walk from the front steps.

The front row of every tour we operate of 3 days duration or more have been designated as Premium Seats, and these may be purchased at the time of booking.

Single Rooms..

Holidays

The number of single rooms we are able to secure from our hotels is small compared with the high demand we have for them, and we inevitably sell out of this room type very early.

It may be possible on occasion to ask the hotel to allow us to sell a double room for sole occupancy, but this will usually be at a supplementary cost.

Fluid Pricing..

PREMIUM DOOR-TO-DOOR by

Includes home collection service, where we pick you up from your door and take you to your holiday coach – and of course bring you home after your holiday. We use some of the best available hotels, include excursions and personal holiday insurance.

Our holidays are planned many months in advance and although all prices are correct at the time of going to print, they may vary from time to time as the year progresses.

Inevitably our most popular holidays are the ones affected the most, so book early to avoid disappointment.

By

OUR MOST AFFORDABLE HOLIDAYS WITH OUR SAME GREAT SERVICE

Coachstyle is our value for money brand, bringing you affordable coach holiday experiences which cover all the best seaside resorts in the UK, excursions to Europe, and great short breaks, events and weekends away.

Laxely Wheel, Isle of Man © Phillip Varley

COACH TOURISM

ASSOCIATION

Financial Security - You’re in Safe Hands..

The combination of travel services offered to you is a package within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. Therefore, you will benefit from all EU rights applying to packages; Skills will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the package as a whole.

Additionally, as required by law, Skills have protection in place to refund your payments and, where transport is included in the package, to ensure your repatriation in the event that they become insolvent. Skills are members of the Bonded Coach Holiday Group of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK Ltd. This is a government approved consumer protection scheme. This ensures that in relation to the coach package holidays described in this brochure (or website) that the clients’ monies are protected by a Bond which may be called upon in the unlikely event of the members Insolvency.

Clients are recommended to inspect the current membership certificate at our registered office or alternatively go to www.bch-uk.org or telephone 0207 240 3131 to confirm current membership.

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Joining Your Holiday...

Our pick-up points are designed to provide as many local connections as possible without creating long journeys for the first passenger on the coach. Each pick-up location also has convenient parking nearby.

Alfreton

Bus Station

£15 per person (tours of 4 days or more)

Arnold

High Street

Free

Beeston

Lace Road

£10 per person (tours of 4 days or more)

Bulwell

Sellers Wood Drive

Chesterfield

Coach Station

Derby

Bus Station

East Midlands Parkway

Railway Station, NG11 0EB

Free (tours of 4 days or more)

Leicester

St Margaret’s Bus Station

Free

Long Eaton

The Green

Free

Loughborough

The Rushes

Free

Lutterworth

George Street

Mansfield

Mansfield Bus Station

Free

Nottingham

Mount Street

Free

Rotherham

Transport Hub

£15 per person

Sheffield

Meadowhall

Free (all tours except European)*

Sheffield

Pond Street*

£15 per person (free on European tours)

Toton

Tram Stop

Free £30 per person (tours of 4 days or more) Free

Free (selected southbound tours only)

Free (tours of 4 days or more)

PLEASE NOTE: Not ALL of the above departure points feature for every tour in this brochure. You may find that we close points due to insufficent passenger numbers. This is at the manager’s discretion, and can be confirmed to you at the time of booking. Timings will no longer be advised at the time of booking, instead departure times will be confirmed in writing to you approximately 2 weeks prior to your departure.

OUR PREMIUM DOOR-TO-DOOR BY SKILLS If you see this sign (on the right hand side) on any of our holidays it means we can offer you our hassle-free Door-to-Door service.

The blue line on our map below illustrates the area in which we offer our complimentary Door-to-Door service. For areas between the blue and red lines, a supplementary charge will apply.

Mansfield Alfreton

Derby Burton

£15 per person supplement

Arnold

Nottingham

On or near the line? If you are unsure as to whether your address entitles you to a free collection then please ask before making your booking.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ashby-dela-Zouch Coalville

FREE ZONE

Loughborough Leicester

Hinckley

We can add our Door-to-Door option onto ANY of our short breaks or holidays for a small additional fee.

For your personalised quote please call a member of our sales team on 08456 66 55 44*.

Prices quoted are return journeys. pick-ups 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 per person.

Our Door-to-Door is not a private transfer there may be additional passengers on your vehicle.

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Holiday Planner Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

DECEMBER 2020

PAGE 7 - 22

Christmas Experiences

PAGE 23 - 29

New Year Breaks

PAGE 30 - 34

Celebration Breaks

PAGE 35 - 36

2021 Holidays

PAGE 37 - 54

2020 Customer Favourites

PAGE 55 - 64

Terms & Conditions Travel Insurance

PAGE 65 - 66 PAGE 67

NOVEMBER 2020 Mo 2 Fr 6 Sa 7 Thu 12 Sa 14

Tu 17 Th 19 Sa 21 Sa 21

Mo 23 Mo 23 Th 26 Fr 27 Fr 27 Fr 27 Sa 28 Sa 28 Mo 30 Mo 30

NEW Warner Littlecote House Hotel 5 Mini Cruise to Amsterdam 3 London Theatre Break Weekend 2 Thursford Christmas Spectacular 3 Mistletoe & Wine Festivities at the Rosemundy House Hotel 5 Thursford Christmas Spectacular 3 Thursford Christmas Spectacular 3 Thursford Christmas Spectacular 3 Christmas Party Night in Leeds Featuring York Christmas Market 2 NEW All Inclusive Scottish Turkey & Tinsel 5 NEW Valkenburg & Aachen Xmas Markets 4 Christmas Twilight at Kew Gardens 2 Bath & Cheltenham Xmas Markets 3 Winchester & Salisbury Xmas Markets 3 Beamish & Durham at Christmas 3 Festive Chester & Liverpool Shopper 2 London Theatre Break Weekend 2 Christmas Markets on the Rhine 5 Rudesheim & Frankfurt Xmas Markets 4

DECEMBER 2020 Fr 4

Fr 4 Fr 4

Sa 5 Mo 7 Mo 7 Mo 7 Fr 11

Fr 11

Sa 12

DAYS PAGE

18 8 8 8 15 7 20 9 14 14 16 9 56 19 21

DAYS PAGE

NEW Worcester Christmas Fayre, Shrewsbury & Ludlow 3 Portsmouth Historic Dockyards Festival 3 Grassington Dickensian & York Christmas Festivals Featuring Harrogate 3 Christmas Twilight at Kew Gardens 2 Christmas Markets on the Rhine 4 Cologne & Dusseldorf Christmas Markets 4 NEW Luxembourg, Trier & Metz 4 NEW Festive Lights & Lakes Featuring Oxford Christmas Market & Brighton 3 Mini Cruise to Haarlem: Holland’s Best Christmas Market 3 Christmas Twilight at Kew Gardens 2

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17 22 56 8

13 11 12 9 19 20 21 11 22 9

Sa 12 Sa 12

Sa 12

Mo 14 Mo 14 We 16 Fr 18 Sa 19 Tu 22 We 23

We 23

We 23

We 23 We 23 We 23 Tu 29 We 30 We 30 We 30 We 30 Th 31 Th 31

NEW Cruise Festive Taster Featuring London 2 Grassington Dickensian Christmas Festival Featuring Skipton 2 NEW Oxford & Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Markets 2 Thursford Christmas Spectacular 3 Christmas Markets on the Rhine 4 Thursford Christmas Spectacular 3 Beamish & Durham at Christmas 3 Christmas Twilight at Kew Gardens 2 Catalonian Christmas & New Year 13 Christmas in Harrogate & the Yorkshire Dales 5 NEW 4* Christmas in Warwickshire Featuring the Cotswolds 5 Christmas in Llandudno: Llangollen Railway & Anglesey 5 Christmas in Suffolk 5 NEW Very Merry Christmas in Valkenburg 5 Christmas on the Rhine 6 New Year on the Rhine 5 Amsterdam New Year 4 Edinburgh’s Hogmanay 4 Auld Lang Syne in the Lakes 4 New Year in Suffolk 4 New Year Celebrations in Liverpool 3 New Year in London 3

JANUARY 2021 Sa 9 Sa 16

Sa 16

Th 21 Fr 22 Sa 23 Sa 23

Fr 29 Sa 30

10 12 15 8 19 8 16 9 27 23 24 25 26 28 29 29 30 31 32 33 34 34

DAYS PAGE

Andre Rieu in Antwerp NEW Soul & Motown Party Break Featuring Leeds & York NEW North West Winter Warmer: Featuring East Lancashire Steam Railway All Inclusive Burns Night Break Amsterdam Mini Cruise: Skills Reunion Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park Winter Wonderland on the Swiss Glacier Express NEW Potters Resort 5* Get Together NEW Spa Break OR Chester Explorer

FEBRUARY 2021 Mo 1

Sa 6 Sa 6 Sa 13

Sa 13 Sa 13 Sa 13 Fr 19

Sa 20 Mo 22 Fr 26 Sa 27

DAYS PAGE

4

51

2

35

2 4 3 2

41 38 36 40

7 4 2

51 36 39

DAYS PAGE

NEW Tartan Tapestry in the Trossachs: All Inclusive House Party with Free Bar 5 Skills Party Break in Harrogate 2 Railways & Waterways of Lancashire 2 Cavern Club, Liverpool & Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey’ to Port Sunlight 2 Valentine’s in Paris 4 Disneyland Paris Featuring Paris Explorer 4 4* Liverpool City Break 2 NEW All Inclusive Stay & Michael Bublé Tribute Featuring Perth & Scone Palace 4 Kew Gardens Orchid Festival & Windsor 2 All Inclusive Stay at the Lake District 5 60’s Tribute Mini Cruise 3 Snowdrops in the Cotswolds 2

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Holiday Planner

2020 Holidays

Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

PAGE 7 - 22

Christmas Experiences

PAGE 23 - 29

New Year Breaks

PAGE 30- 34

MAY 2020 Sa 9 London Theatre Break Weekend We 13 NEW Chartres Light Festival Sa 23 London Theatre Break Weekend We 27 Ostend at Anchor We 27 Ostend, Bruges & Ypres JUNE 2020

Celebration Breaks

PAGE 35 - 36

2021 Holidays

PAGE 37 - 54

2020 Customer Favourites

PAGE 55 - 64

Sa 6 Sa 6 Fr 12 We 17 We 17 We 17 Sa 20 Mo 22

London Theatre Break Weekend Costa Brava, Barcelona & Girona 4* Liverpool City Break Ladies Day at Royal Ascot Ladies Day at Royal Ascot Ostend, Bruges & Ypres London Theatre Break Weekend Rhine Valley & The Moselle

JULY 2020

MARCH 2021

DAYS PAGE

Mo 1 Springtime Splendour on the South Coast 5 44 Sa 13 Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park 2 40 Sa 13 NEW Florimania at Hampton Court

Palace: Mother’s Day Special 2 42 Tu 16 Mini Cruise: Jersey Boys 3 52 Fr 19 NEW Harrogate & Holmfirth in Springtime

Featuring the Famous Good Old Days Variety Music Hall 3 43 Sa 20 Spring on the Lakes Como & Maggiore Featuring Milan 8 45 Su 21 Bournemouth & Dorset Delights 6 46 Sa 27 4* Liverpool City Break 3 39 Sa 27 NEW Knebworth House & Thriplow

Daffodil Delights 2 42 Sa 27 Settle to Carlisle Railway 2 40 Mo 29 Highlights of Wales 5 37 We 31 Cream of Cornwall: Lost Gardens of

Heligan Magnolias & Falmouth 5 46 APRIL 2020

DAYS PAGE

Mo 26 Rails & Royals in Scotland: Featuring

the Jacobite Steam Railway MAY 2021 Tu 4

Tu 11

Sa 22 Mo 24

5

43

DAYS PAGE

Isle of Wight Delights: Mottistone Manor Garden & Osbourne House Elegant Sidmouth Featuring South Devon & Dorset Delights Hebridean Island Adventure Colourful Cornish Highlights Featuring the Rosemundy House Hotel

Fr 3 We 8 Th 9 Sa 11 Sa 18 Tu 21 Sa 25 We 29

4* Liverpool City Break NEW Puy du Fou NEW Chartres Light Festival London Theatre Break Weekend Rhine Valley & The Moselle Andrea Bocelli in Tuscany London Theatre Break Weekend NEW Normandy’s Coastline: Le Havre, Honfleur & Etretat

AUGUST 2020 Th 6 Fr 7 Fr 7 Sa 8 Sa 8

Th 13 Th 13 Fr 14 Th 20 Th 20 Sa 22 Su 23

Rhine in Flames The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo NEW Tall Ships of Dunkirk London Theatre Break Weekend NEW Normandy’s Coastline: Le Havre, Honfleur & Etretat The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo NEW SAIL Amsterdam 4* Liverpool City Break The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo NEW Chartres Light Festival London Theatre Break Weekend Isles of Scilly

SEPTEMBER 2020 Sa 5 Fr 11 Sa 19 Mo 21 We 16

London Theatre Break Weekend 4* Liverpool City Break London Theatre Break Weekend Ostend, Bruges & Ghent Costa Brava, Barcelona & Girona

6

50

OCTOBER 2020

6 7

47 49

6

48

Fr 2 Sa 10 Mo 12 Sa 24

4* Liverpool City Break London Theatre Break Weekend Rhine Valley & the Moselle London Theatre Break Weekend

DAYS PAGE

2 5 2 5 5

56 62 56 59 60

DAYS PAGE

2 9 2 3 2 5 2 5

56 64 39 55 55 61 56 63

DAYS PAGE

3 5 5 2 5 8 2

39 57 62 56 63 58 56

5

62

DAYS PAGE

7 3 4 2

63 55 59 56

5 4 4 2 5 4 2 7

62 55 60 39 55 62 56 54

DAYS PAGE

2 3 2 4 9

56 39 56 61 64

DAYS PAGE

2 2 5 2

39 56 63 56

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

All Inclusive Scottish Turkey & Tinsel NEW

© Stirling in Winter

Have yourself a merry early Christmas on our all-inclusive Turkey and Tinsel break in stunning Drymen. Staying at the historic Winnock Hotel this is the perfect chance to enjoy the ‘Spirit’ of Christmas, with a free bar every night and festive themed entertainment, and the excitement of a Scottish Hogmanay all in one holiday.

Day 1 – With a comfort break along the way we travel to our hotel in the pretty village of Drymen. Afterwards, settle in, take a walk around the village or enjoy a malt whisky in the Ptarmigan Bar. Later, we will be welcomed by the Management team and have the opportunity to enjoy a welcome drink with dinner.

Day 2 – Shortly after breakfast we travel to Stirling for free time. Stirling’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings including the glorious Stirling Castle, an imposing fortress that was one of Scotland’s most historically important sites. On our return to the hotel we enjoy a photo stop at the impressive The Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures. Later, take some free time to relax and indulge in our included afternoon tea, which will be served at our hotel.

Day 3 – Today we will travel the short distance to Tarbet Pier, where we board our boat trip on Loch Lomond. With tea, coffee and a shortbread served on board our cruise will take us past Arklet Waterfalls, Honeymoon Island and across the deepest part of the Loch. Afterwards, enjoy free time in Luss, an attractive village nestling on the westen shores of Loch Lomond. Best known as the filming location of the television series ‘Take the High Road’. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner and show as we celebrate ‘Hogmanay’, and in true Scottish style, don’t forget to take advantage of the free bar!

Day 5 – Enjoy a farewell hot toddy before we return home, full of festive ‘spirit’.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 3 nights half board Welcome drink Tea/coffee served after dinner Free bar every night (between 7:30 and 10:30) Packed lunches or soup & sandwich lunches included on 3 days Festive themed entertainment on 2 nights Scottish Weaponry Display on 1 night Afternoon tea on “Christmas Eve” Traditional Christmas Dinner A visit from Father Christmas with a gift Traditional Scottish dinner on “Hogmanay” Farewell hot toddy on departure Excursions to Stirling & Luss Photo stop at The Kelpies Boat cruise on Loch Lomond Free time in Drymen

HOTEL 3 The Winnock Hotel Drymen Our hotel is set in an 18th century building and features a bar and restaurant. Guestrooms are decorated with warm tones and are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities.

DATE

Mon 23 November

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£329

Single Room Supplement

£79

Travel Insurance

£23

Please note: the hotel does not have a lift, but ground floor rooms are available on request.

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

C U ST

OM

VO U R E R FA

Thursford Christmas Spectacular

ITE

© Thursford Christmas Spectacular

Lights, camera, action! Join Skills for another festive extravaganza at the largest Christmas show in the country! The Thursford Christmas Spectacular promises an experience of mesmerising sparkle and festive delight on this unique performance that delivers non-stop singing, dancing, comedy and music.

Day 1 – We travel to The Prom Hotel, with comfort stops along the way.

Day 2 – Take to your seat because today we have included entry to the exhilarating Thursford Christmas Spectacular. Each performance guarantees non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety and is a fast-moving celebration of the festive season!

Day 3 – Shortly after breakfast we experience a nostalgic journey by steam on the Bure Valley Railway – Norfolk’s longest narrow-gauge railway from Wroxham to Aylsham, in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. So, sit back, relax and prepare to be enchanted by the natural beauty of the Broads at their very best. At the end of the journey we will enjoy tea, coffee (or mulled punch) and festive treats at the Whistlestop café before returning home to the East Midlands.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Ticket to the Thursford Christmas Spectacular Journey on the Bure Valley Railway with tea, coffee or mulled punch served at the Whistlestop café afterwards

HOTEL 4 The Prom Hotel, Great Yarmouth Located on the seafront, the Prom Hotel offers relaxing views of the seafront and the Golden Mile.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Thu 12 November

3

£249

Tue 17 November

3

£269

Thu 19 November

3

£249

Sat 21 November

3

£249

Mon 14 December

3

£269

Wed 16 December

3

£249

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£17

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Christmas Twilight at Kew Gardens

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night bed & breakfast Admission into Kew Gardens for the evening event Free time in Richmond‐upon‐Thames & Oxford

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Express Heathrow Our modern hotel offers comfortable and stylish accommodation with tea & coffee making facilities available.

Kew Gardens, Light Tunnel at Christmas © Kew

Day 1 – We make our way to Richmond‐upon‐Thames with a little free time to enjoy a spot of lunch, we then travel to Kew Gardens, and as the twilight falls the magic can begin. Explore the one mile sparkling path as it winds its way through enchanting botanical gardens in a magical after‐dark experience. Fairytale meets fantasy in a world of singing trees, illuminated fountains, larger‐than‐life flora, ribbons of light and a flickering fire garden set against the iconic Palm House. Why not complete your walk under the stars with spiced cider, mulled wine or hot chocolate. Choose from an enticing selection of street food along the trail and end the evening browsing Kew’s gift shop – why not pick up some treats for the journey home? After some free time, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – We visit Oxford for free time. The ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ is famous around the world for its prestigious universities and places of history.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Thu 26 November

2

£99

Sat 5 December

2

£99

Sat 12 December

2

£99

Sat 19 December

2

£99

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£17

Festive Chester & Liverpool Shopper INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Visits to Liverpool & Chester

HOTEL 4

Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel **** Boasting 2-acres of beautiful gardens and a feel good health club, the grounds of our hotel lead to the pretty canal-side walkways of Christleton. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and hot tub. Guestrooms feature a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

© Chester Christmas Market

Day 1 – You’re in for a magical time today as we arrive in historic Chester, where you will find traditional wooden chalets clustered around a sparkling Christmas tree. Wonderful festive treats, unique crafts, stocking fillers and delicious hot food are all on offer. Later we take you to the hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Liverpool, a city of vibrant culture, fantastic heritage and a shoppers haven! If you’re all shopped out head to the Albert Dock and enjoy a pleasant stroll around some of the museums and art galleries before winding down to enjoy a spot of lunch before heading home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 9

DATE

Sat 28 November

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£99

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Cruise Festive Taster Featuring London

NEW

Friend Enjoying Drinks on the River © Bernardbodo

Why not join our festive season get together for an occasion with a difference and the perfect introduction for those who are new to cruising as well as those who are just looking for a unique night out! For one night only we’re inviting you aboard the Cruise & Maritime Voyages state-of-the-art cruise ship Magellan, to view the facilities and cabins and enjoy a fabulous cabaret-style show and delicious fivecourse dinner!

Day 1 – This morning we enjoy a leisurely journey to our hotel in London. After check-in, pop the prosecco because there will be free time to get ready for tonight’s fabulous Cruise & Maritime Voyages event! Later our coach will take you to Tilbury Docks, where we will board the Magellan cruise ship which boasts a spacious interior, wide corridors and an expansive wooden deck. Highlights of the ship include two high-quality restaurants.

Tonight we will enjoy a live cabaret act and a 5-course dinner followed by a disco before returning to our hotel later this evening.

Day 2 – After breakfast we will drop you off in central London, from where you can explore the city in your own time.

London’s iconic skyline is crowned with royal landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, and dotted with striking modern additions including The Gherkin and The Shard.

After some free time we will return home to the East Midlands.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night bed & breakfast Cruise & Maritime Voyages dinner event with live entertainment and a disco Free time in London

HOTEL 3 Ibis Styles Excel Victoria Docklands Opposite the ExCel Exhibition Centre the Ibis Style Excel provides comfortable bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

The hotel also has a breakfast room, a café serving a selection of baguettes and hot drinks and a traditional English pub serving drinks and food.

DATE

Sat 12 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£169

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

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Portsmouth Historic Dockyards Festival of Christmas

Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Featuring Oxford Christmas Markets & Chichester

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Entrance to Portsmouth Historic Dockyards Visits to Chichester & Oxford

HOTEL 4 Mercure Southampton Centre Dolphin Hotel Dating back over 500 years, our 4-star hotel is the oldest in the city and still retains original features including Britain’s largest bay windows. Host to Jane Austen’s 18th birthday party, the hotel features an award-winning restaurant and guestrooms have tea and coffee making facilities.

Portsmouth Festival of Christmas © Stephen Courtney

Day 1 – On our way to our hotel we enjoy a leisurely stop at in the cathedral city of Chichester for free time, before continuing to our hotel in Southampton.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Portsmouth, where we have included entry into the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard where the “Victorian Festival of Christmas” is taking place.

Explore the snow‐covered Dickensian streets in the awe‐inspiring setting of the dockyard, which is home to the new Mary Rose Museum, HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the National Museum of the Royal Navy. The popular Christmas market showcases a range of unique stalls alongside Victorian characters and entertainment and after some free time we return to the hotel in time for dinner.

Day 3 – This morning you can enjoy a little free time exploring the Oxford Christmas Market before we return home.

DATE

Fri 4 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£189 £20

Single Room Supplement

£

Travel Insurance

Festive Lights & Lakes Featuring Oxford Christmas Market & Brighton NEW

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights bed & breakfast Entrance to Bedgebury Light Trail & Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens Illuminated Trail Visits to Brighton & Oxford

HOTEL 4 Crowne Plaza London Gatwick Airport Our elegant hotel features a restaurant, lounge bar and Wi-Fi. Guestrooms include light wooden furniture and satellite TV with tea and coffee making facilities.

© Oxford Christmas Market

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel with a comfort break along the way. After a chance to freshen up, we continue to Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest for the magical after-dark Christmas Light Trail. The sights and sounds of Christmas await you on this one-mile illuminated trail with installations rising high into the night sky. After time to explore, we return to our hotel and the ‘Land of Nod’.

DATE Day 2 – After breakfast we spend the day in Brighton one of the most popular destinations in the UK. As dusk falls, we travel to Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens to visit the Illuminated Trail. Awash Fri 11 December with light, sound, colour and festive cheer on a crisp winter’s evening, you can experience these Single Room Supplement stunning gardens as never before.

Day 3 – Before retracing our footsteps home, we enjoy a few of hours at Oxford Christmas Market. Travel Insurance

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 11

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£179 £49 £17

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Grassington Dickensian & York Christmas Festivals Featuring Harrogate INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Free time in York & Harrogate Visit to the Grassington Dickensian Christmas Festival

HOTEL 3 Midland Hotel Bradford Our city centre hotel offers opulent Victorian surroundings with modern day comforts and free Wi-Fi. A stay here is a relaxing experience, with the ambiance of an era long gone, but all the facilities of the 21st century including ballroom, restaurant and bar.

York at Christmas © York Tourism

Day 1 – On our way to our hotel we visit the quaint spa town of Harrogate. Indulge in some Christmas shopping among the many fashionable boutiques or take yourself for a spot of lunch in one of the fine eateries such as the famous Betty’s Tea Rooms.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Grassington, where the town will be celebrating their legendary Dickensian Festival. Soak up the unique festive atmosphere on cobbled streets and enjoy the traditional wooden chalets with a warming mulled wine and the festive glow of an open brazier.

Day 3 – Today’s excursion takes us to York, here you can visit one of the most popular Christmas markets in the UK – the York St Nicholas Fayre. Each stall offers different merchandise including gifts, crafts and jewellery. After some free time, we return home.

DATE

Fri 4 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£169

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£17

Grassington Dickensian Christmas Festival Featuring Skipton INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Excursion to Grassington for the Dickensian Christmas Festival & Skipton

HOTEL 3

Midland Hotel Bradford See the above tour

© Grassington Dickensian Festival

Day 1 – We travel to the charming market town of Skipton to enjoy free time. With its famous 900-year-old castle, romantic ruined priory and historic cobbled high street, Skipton is a wonderful place to spend a couple of hours. Afterwards, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – We travel to Grassington, where the town will be celebrating their legendary Dickensian Festival. Soak up the unique festive atmosphere on cobbled streets and enjoy the traditional wooden chalets with a warming mulled wine and the festive glow of an open brazier. After some free time, we continue to the hotel.

DATE

Sat 12 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£99

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

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10/02/2020 16:13:20

ogate

Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Worcester Christmas Fayre, Shrewsbury & Ludlow NEW

Traditional Christmas Market

Kick start your festive season by joining us as we visit Worcester Christmas Fayre, hailed as the Midland’s premier Victorian seasonal event. Prepare for a truly enchanting stroll through the historic streets as they are filled with over 200 stalls selling an array of local produce, arts and crafts, international products, festive gifts and delicious street food.

Day 1 – Today we travel to Ludlow for free time. Crowned by the 11th century Ludlow Castle situated on a cliff above the River Teme, Ludlow is an architectural gem, with a friendly community atmosphere and a reputation for great food and drink. After some free time, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – Put on your best Victorian attire today as we travel to Worcester to visit the Victorian Christmas Fayre. Step back in time as Victorian ladies, gentlemen, chimney sweeps and merchants fill the historic streets, and explore more than 200 stalls before sipping on a hot mulled wine

in the Victorian themed bar. Throughout the day there will be a fantastic programme of fun entertainment to enjoy.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Shrewsbury for free time before we return home.

Adorned with pretty, Tudor buildings, cosy pubs with roaring fires, good restaurants and brilliant independent shops, Shrewsbury it is one of England’s finest medieval market towns. After a walk around town, why not visit St Chad’s Church, where you will find Ebenezer Scroogie’s gravestone from ‘A Christmas Carol’ which was filmed here!

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Visits to Worcester for the Christmas Fayre, Shrewsbury & Ludlow

HOTEL 3

Mercure Bewdley The Heath Hotel Kidderminster Set in 20 acres of countryside, our hotel offers comfortable rooms in an elegant setting. The restored 1870’s Victorian house also features original carved doors, fireplaces and stained glass.

Guestrooms have satellite TV as well as tea and coffee making facilities.

This hotel offers fully accessible bedrooms.

DATE

Fri 4 December

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DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£159

Single Room Supplement

£45

Travel Insurance

£17

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Bath & Cheltenham Christmas Markets Featuring Gloucester Quays INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Excursions to Cheltenham, Bath Christmas Markets & Gloucester Quays

HOTEL 3 Jurys Inn Swindon The Jurys Inn Swindon offers spacious and stylish rooms perfectly designed to provide guests with all the comforts of home.

Bath Christmas Market © Damion Humphries

Day 1 – On the way to our hotel we stop off to enjoy the Cheltenham Christmas Market.

Housed in gorgeous wooden chalets under the Christmas lights on the Promenade, it features 40 unique stalls, selling a wide range of Christmas gifts, crafts, food and drink.

Day 2 – Enjoy a full day to explore Bath’s award-winning Christmas Market! With around 150 twinkling chalets spread out across the city’s picturesque Georgian streets, this is the perfect place to do a spot of Christmas shopping.

Day 3 – Before returning home we visit Gloucester Quays for some free time. Set in a stunning waterside location, the Gloucester Quays is the city’s thriving leisure quarter and features a shopping centre, National Waterways Museum and an exciting variety of bars and restaurants.

DATE

Fri 27 November

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£169

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£17

Winchester & Salisbury Christmas Markets Featuring Oxford & Chichester INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Visits to Salisbury & Winchester Christmas Markets Excursion to Oxford & Chichester

HOTEL 4

Mercure Southampton Centre Dolphin Hotel Our 4-star hotel is the oldest in the city and retains many of its original features including Britain’s largest bay windows! It was also the host to Jane Austen’s 18th birthday party. Guestrooms feature Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.

© Oxford Christmas Market

Day 1 – With a comfort break en route we travel to Chichester, one of the greatest wellpreserved Georgian cities in the UK for free time. Later, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Salisbury Christmas Market, located in the historic Guildhall Square. Browse the beautifully decorated wooden chalets, warm up over some mulled wine or festive treats and listen to one of the bands. Later, we continue to Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market, recognised as one of the best in Europe.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Oxford, offering a unique mix of ancient and modern architecture, enjoy your time visiting one of the many historic buildings and museums or shop until you drop! Oxford has it all. Afterwards, we travel home.

DATE

Fri 27 November

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£169

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

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s

Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Oxford & Stratford-Upon-Avon Christmas Markets NEW

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Excursions to Oxford & Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Markets

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Leamington Spa Warwick Our hotel is set in well-tended gardens with its bar and restaurant. The spacious guestrooms have private bathrooms and free tea and coffee making facilities.

© Oxford Christmas Market

Day 1 – Today we take you to Oxford for free time. You will discover the Christmas market located right in the heart of the city on historic Broad Street, with the sound of choirs singing carols and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifting through the air. You can explore the decorated chalets offerings unique handmade gifts before we continue to our hotel for the evening.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit nearby Stratford-upon-Avon, where you can browse the array of shops and historic attractions the town has to offer. The streets will be filled with traditional, colourful stalls, adorned with twinkling Christmas decorations and the irresistible aromas of Christmas. On sale will be an array of products including local arts and crafts, festive gifts and tempting street food. After some free time, we begin our journey home – with sacks full of festive treats!

DATE

Sat 12 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£115

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

Christmas Party Night in Leeds Featuring York Christmas Market INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Party night with a disco Visits to Leeds & York

HOTEL 3

Mercure Leeds Parkway The Mercure Leeds Parkway hotel provides comfortable, spacious bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities, highspeed internet access and a sauna, spa bath and a steam room.

York Christmas Market © York Tourism

Day 1 – Before arriving at our hotel, we enjoy free time in Leeds. Why not visit Trinity Leeds which is housed under a giant iconic glass roof, located in the heart of the city. It is home to over 120 shops, bars and restaurants. This afternoon, there will be enough time to freshen up before our party night kicks‐off this evening with a festive dinner and a disco!

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit York Christmas Market for free time, which is one of the most popular Christmas Markets in the UK! Dotted around the city, each market offers unique stocking fillers, including gifts, crafts, jewellery and local produce. Afterwards, we return home.

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DATE

Sat 21 November

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£99

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Beamish & Durham at Christmas

© Beamish, Living Museum of the North

Step back in time and experience a truly traditional Christmas at Beamish, the Living Museum of the North. From Georgian times right the way through to the 1950s, this open-air museum is one of the best in the world and on our special break you can immerse yourself in an enchanting festive season at Beamish.

Day 1 – Wrap up warm as we visit the captivating city of Durham, home to cobbled streets and crowned by the dramatic Durham Cathedral. Why not explore the cathedral’s fascinating heritage and enjoy some of the special carol services or Christmas concerts. After some free time here, we continue to our hotel with time to settle in before dinner.

Day 2 – On our way to Beamish, we enjoy a short photo opportunity at Antony Gormley’s Angel of the North, the UK’s most famous piece of public art. Discover unique Yuletide celebrations today at Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

Taste scrumptious seasonal cooking and be amazed as your favourite parts of the museum are beautifully decorated for the festive season. Savour the aroma of delicious home-baked goods cooking on

the range, listen to merry music and try your hand at traditional crafts. No festive season is complete without a visit from Father Christmas, and you can even take a spin on the real ice rink!

INCLUDES

Return coach travel 2 nights half board Admission into Beamish, the Living Museum of the North Visits to Durham & York

HOTEL 3 Beamish Park Hotel (November) Our hotel features an award-winning restaurant and luxury

Day 3 – After breakfast we enjoy some free bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. time in the walled city of York. With more attractions per square mile than anywhere else in the UK, why not follow the ‘Selfie Trail’ ‐ follow the footprints around the city and discover some of York’s most iconic photo spots, including the Shambles Market Sign, York Minster, the City Walls and York Railway Station.

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Washington (December) The Holiday Inn Washington provides modern and spacious bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 27 November

3

£189

Fri 18 December

3

£169

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£17

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Warner Littlecote House Hotel NEW

© Warner Leisure

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to escape the hustle and INCLUDES bustle of the busy period than with a relaxing break to Warner Littlecote House Hotel? This beautiful Grade I listed Tudor manor has a truly unique story while the stunning location has Travel insurance played host to Romans and even a civil war army! All of this history comes with outstanding Door-to-Door service service, live nightly entertainment and a host of activities from bowls to air rifle shooting.

4 nights half board Hotel entertainment Day 1 – We travel to Oxford for free time. of treatments for men and women. After Free time to enjoy the resorts leisure facilities Renowned as the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’, dinner this evening be sure to catch a Excursions to Oxford, Bath & Winchester Oxford is one of the oldest and most fantastic live show!

Scenic drive through the Cotswolds celebrated university cities in the world.

Why not visit the iconic Bodleian Library or Carfax Tower, which offers superb views over the city. This afternoon we continue our journey to our Warner Resort.

Day 2 – Today we head to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath, which has some of the richest ancient history in Britain and some of the most stunning architecture in Europe.

Day 3 – Enjoy a full day at leisure at our resort. For the ultimate rest and relaxation, head for the day spa with a wide range

Day 4 – We visit Winchester for free time, an unspoilt cathedral city sitauted on the edge of the rolling South Downs National Park. Home of good food, the country’s largest farmers’ market and it is the resting place of author Jane Austen, inspiration to the many craft-makers and artists who live here. Winchester is truly a destination for all seasons.

HOTEL 3 Warner Littlecote House Hotel Standard Chalet is the normal arrangement and the historic en suite rooms feature TV, complimentary toiletries, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities (biscuits replenished daily).

Day 5 – After breakfast we enjoy a scenic journey through the Cotswolds before returning home.

DATE

Mon 2 November Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£499 NIL

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

I N C LU

D

R EA ES A C

Mistletoe & Wine Festivities at the Rosemundy House Hotel

M T EA

Looe, Banjo Pier at Sunset © David Eastwell

Christmas time is here, and we invite you to join us for some early festivities at our INCLUDES delightful Cornish hideaway. The gorgeous Georgian hotel is a long-standing customer Travel insurance favourite and our time here comes with a fabulous festive package including which Door-to-Door service includes a sherry reception, mince pies, mulled wine and a delightful cream tea. On 4 nights half board our wonderful break we also enjoy a journey on the Lappa Valley Railway and visits Sherry reception to Looe, Falmouth, Truro & St Austell.

Cream tea at the hotel Visit and a gift from Father Christmas Day 1 – We travel to the small coastal town Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to Truro, Excursions to Looe, Falmouth, Truro & St Austell of Looe to enjoy a short sightseeing stop. the administrative capital of Cornwall for Journey on the Lappa Valley Railway followed by The quaint, sleepy fishing port has all the free time. Dating back over 800 years, the mince pies and mulled wine rugged charm of the dramatic Cornish city’s heritage is as a market town and coast. Later, we travel to the hotel to enjoy port, and today is Cornwall’s only city. a sherry reception.

Truro’s most striking feature is the grand HOTEL 3 cathedral, built at the turn of the century, Rosemundy House Hotel St Agnes Day 2 – One of the largest deep-water which continues to dominate the Truro harbours in the world, Falmouth is a town skyline and has some interesting Victorian steeped in maritime history. After some free stained-glass windows. This afternoon we Set on 4‐acres of gardens, our hotel is an 18th century Georgian time, we return to the hotel for a relaxing visit St Austell where we will spend the house and offers cosy lounges, a bar and restaurant. afternoon and a delicious cream tea. remainder of the day, before returning back to the hotel for this evening’s dinner.

Day 3 – Following a morning of leisure, in the afternoon we enjoy a journey on the Day 5 – Full of festive cheer we return Lappa Valley Railway, bound for Santa’s home, with comfort stops along the way. magical Christmas grotto! Our ticket also includes a delicious mince pie and mulled wine.

DATE

Sat 14 November Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£425 £25

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Christmas Markets on the Rhine R FR 1 HOU

E E BA

R

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board Welcome drink One-hour free bar on 2 nights Two nights entertainment (fancy dress & dancing) Excursions to Rüdesheim, Wiesbaden & Bonn Christmas Markets *Optional excursion to Koblenz and Boppard £15 per person, please enquire at the time of booking.

HOTEL 2 Hotel Wagner Kamp‐Bornhofen Same as below Rudesheim Christmas Market Nativity Scene © A Jersey Broad Abroad Blogger

Day 1 – With comfort stops along the way, we travel to our hotel in Kamp Bornhofen one of the most beautiful areas in Germany, where on arrival we enjoy a complimentary Schnapps!

Day 2 – This morning we take you to Rüdesheim Christmas Market, located in the popular ‘Drosselgasse’ area in the historic city centre. This famous street is festively decorated with sparkling lights and decorations during Christmas time, and ‘stuffed’ with over 120 stalls. After some free time, we visit Wiesbaden Christmas Market, considered to be among the most attractive in Germany.

Day 3 – After breakfast, we travel to Bonn Christmas Market. Browse at the traditional huts along Munsterplatz, Bottlerplatz, Windeckstrasse, Friedensplatz and Vivatsgasse, where you can find everything from arts and crafts items to hot mead and mulled wine.

Day 4 – Join us for our optional excursion to Koblenz Christmas Market and Boppard*.

Day 5 – Full of festive cheer and perhaps Riesling (German wine), we return home.

DATE

Mon 30 November

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£289

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£30

Christmas Markets on the Rhine 1

FRE HOUR

E BA R

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights half board Welcome drink One-hour free bar on 2 nights Two nights entertainment (fancy dress & dancing) Excursions to Rüdesheim, Wiesbaden & Bonn Christmas Markets *Optional excursion to Cochem and Boppard £15 per person, please enquire at the time of booking.

HOTEL 2 Hotel Wagner Kamp‐Bornhofen

© Bonn Christmas Market

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel and enjoy a welcome drink on arrival.

Day 2 – This morning we take you to Rüdesheim Christmas Market, located in the popular ‘Drosselgasse’ area in the historic city centre. This famous street is festively decorated with sparkling lights and decorations during Christmas time, and ‘stuffed’ with over 120 stalls. After some free time, we visit Wiesbaden Christmas Market, considered to be among the most attractive in Germany.

Day 3 – Join us today as we visit Boppard and Cochem Christmas Markets.* Day 4 – Full of festive cheer and perhaps Riesling (German wine), we return home.

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Our hotel in Kamp-Bornhofen is a 3-minute walk from the River Rhine and offers a spa with sauna, hot tub and solarium, as well as a traditional restaurant with garden terrace and Wi-Fi. DAYS

PRICE FROM

Mon 7 December

4

£229

Mon 14 December

4

£229

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£30

19 10/02/2020 16:14:07

Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

Valkenburg & Aachen Christmas Markets

NEW

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights half board Visits to Aachen & Valkenburg Christmas Markets Entrance to the Velvet Caves Visit to the Lindt Warehouse

HOTEL 3 Hotel Schaepkens Valkenburg Located on the edge of Valkenburg, our hotel is surrounded by a picturesque garden and offers guests a comfortable and spacious place to stay.

Maastricht © Dutch Scenery

Day 1 – With comfort breaks along the way, we travel by coach and ferry to Valkenburg.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time to explore the festivities in Valkenburg (Holland’s Christmas capital).

The city’s main square is transformed into a winter wonderland and home to Europe’s largest singing Christmas tree! Our favourite part is the Christmas market hidden in the Municipal Cave of Valkenburg aan de Geul – the largest and oldest underground Christmas market in Europe – with admission included.

Day 3 – After breakfast we take you to Aachen Christmas Market, where you can enjoy free time and experience the aura of this friendly city. Every year the squares and streets around the town hall are transformed into a paradise of lights and colours, festive sounds and seductive smells. On our way back to the hotel we visit the Lindt Chocolate Warehouse.

Day 4 – We return home retracing our footsteps back through Europe.

DATE

Mon 23 November

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£299

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£30

Cologne & Dusseldorf Christmas Markets INCLUDES

SEDULCNI

Return Channel crossing 1 night bed & breakfast 2 nights half board Visits to Cologne & Düsseldorf Christmas Markets Optional festive cruise in Düsseldorf, a visit from Father Christmas and carol singing *£25 per person – please enquire at the time of booking

HOTEL 4

Novotel Düsseldorf City West Located on the outskirts of Düsseldorf our hotel offers a spacious spa area with a sauna and a steam bath, a bar and comfortable guestrooms.

Dusseldorf Christmas Market © Lux_D

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to our 4-star hotel in Düsseldorf. Please note, due to our expected late arrival at the hotel there will be no dinner served tonight.

Day 2 – After breakfast our driver will take you into the centre of Düsseldorf, to experience the city in all its festive glory as glittering and lovingly decorated huts appear right before your very eyes! This afternoon, you can join us for an optional sightseeing cruise. As you float along the romantic Rhine gliding past the city’s waterfront sights, you will be served a Belgian waffle with sour cherries and whipped cream, or German apple cake with whipped cream served with tea/coffee or hot chocolate.* Day 3 – Today we take you to Cologne, where the most popular Christmas market is held in front of the dramatic Cologne Cathedral.

Day 4 – Bursting with Christmas cheer we retrace our footsteps home.

20 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Festive Not Festive15.indd 20

DATE

Mon 7 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£309

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£30

10/02/2020 16:14:15

Rudesheim & Frankfurt Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 1 night bed & breakfast 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast Free time in Rüdesheim & Frankfurt

HOTEL 3 Rhein Hotel Rüdesheim am Rhein Situated in the heart of Rüdesheim, our hotel’s great location means that the main attractions are just a short walk away. After a day of exploring, unwind in the hotel’s spa facilities, a Finnish sauna, an aromatic steam bath and a relaxation area.

Frankfurt Christmas Market © Sborisov

Day 1 – We travel to Rüdesheim am Rhein. Please note due to our expected late arrival at the

hotel there will be no dinner served tonight.

Day 2 – After breakfast perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll into Rüdesheim. Set in the town’s chocolate-box old quarter, the Christmas market brings a distinctly festive feel to the romantic old town, with traditional twinkling chalets selling gifts, crafts and local produce.

Don’t leave today without trying some delicious Rüdesheim coffee, which is exclusively made with locally distilled Asbach brandy and whipped cream!

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Frankfurt Christmas Market, one of the oldest and most beautiful in all of Germany. Frankfurt’s Old Town glows brightly, illuminated by thousands of fairy lights, and the scent of roast chestnuts, mulled wine and grilled sausages fill the air.

Day 4 – Bursting with Christmas cheer and perhaps sporting the odd stocking filler or two, we retrace our footsteps back to England and home.

DATE

Mon 30 November

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£299

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£30

Luxembourg, Trier & Metz NEW

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing 3 nights bed & breakfast Visits to Luxembourg, Trier & Metz Christmas Markets

HOTEL 3 Hotel Ibis Esch Belval Luxembourg Our hotel features wireless internet access in public areas and a modern bar. Each of the air-conditioned rooms include satellite TV, a work desk and a bathroom with a shower.

Luxembourg Christmas Market © FamVeld

Day 1 – With comfort stops along the way, we enjoy a leisurely journey to Luxembourg.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Trier Christmas Market, which is set against the backdrop of the cathedral, and full of medieval delights and traditional hand-crafted gifts. After some free time we travel to Luxembourg Christmas Market for the remainder of the day. Whilst here, you can also enjoy the ‘Letzebuerger Chreschtmaart’ (Tree Light Show) which is held on the Place d’Armes.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Metz Christmas Market, the second most visited in France. Spread across five sites in the city, it features both French and German cultures and traditions due to Metz’ location close to Franco-German border.

Day 4 – Bursting with Christmas cheer and a stocking filler or two, we retrace our footsteps home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Festive Not Festive15.indd 21

DATE

Mon 7 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£249

Single Room Supplement

£79

Travel Insurance

£30

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Christmas Markets & Seasonal Breaks

ENTE

RTA

NT O INME

N BO

Mini Cruise to Amsterdam

ARD

INCLUDES Return ferry sailing 2 nights inside cabin accommodation (bunk beds) Entertainment on board Coach travel throughout Free time in Amsterdam DFDS Ferry Enjoy sailing between Newcastle and Amsterdam with DFDS, Europe’s leading Ferry Operator 2012 – 2019 and the World’s Leading Ferry Operator 2011 – 2019.

Additional Supplements

Outside cabin Outside cabin (single supplement) Low berth Low berth (outside) Meal supplement

© Amsterdam Tourism

Day 1 – We travel to Newcastle to meet our DFDS cruise ferry. After settling into your cabin, you are free this evening to enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board.

Day 2 – This morning our coach will drive you into central Amsterdam, where you will (2 x dinner, 2 x breakfast) have free time. Discover the cities canal-woven core laced with atmospheric narrow lanes that twinkle in their festive finery. Explore the world-famous museums, including the Van DATE Gogh Museum, the Hermitage and the Rijksmuseum, take a scenic canal cruise to see the Fri 6 November city in a whole new light. After some free time, we return to our cruise ferry for another night of live music and entertainment.

Single Room Supplement Day 3 – Once the ship has docked, we begin our journey returning home mid-afternoon.

= £15 per person = £39 per person = £19 per person = £29 per person = £69 per person

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£99 £19 £27

Travel Insurance

Mini Cruise to Haarlem: Holland’s Best Christmas Market ENTE

RTA

NT O INME

N BO

ARD

INCLUDES Return ferry sailing 2 nights inside cabin accommodation (bunk beds) Entertainment on board Coach travel throughout Excursion to Haarlem Christmas Market DFDS Ferry Enjoy sailing between Newcastle and Amsterdam with DFDS, Europe’s leading Ferry Operator 2012 – 2019 and the World’s Leading Ferry Operator 2011 – 2019.

Additional Supplements

Browsing Stall at Christmas Market © MilanMarkovic

Day 1 – We travel to Newcastle, where we will board our cruise ferry. After settling into your cabin, enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board as we sail into the night.

Day 2 – This morning we travel to the beautiful city of Haarlem for free time. Voted as one of the best shopping cities in the Netherlands, Haarlem is the perfect place to pick up a stocking filler or two! Your first stop should be the city’s ‘Gouden Straatjes’ (streets of gold), where you’ll find everything from independent boutiques to big brands.

Afterwards, follow the traditional, festive music as it guides you towards the Christmas Market which features around 300 twinkling chalets offering artisan foods, handcrafted gifts, artwork and decorations.

Day 3 – We retrace our footsteps back home, on board our comfortable coach.

Outside cabin Outside cabin (single supplement) Low berth Low berth (outside) Meal supplement

= £15 per person = £39 per person = £19 per person = £29 per person = £69 per person

(2 x dinner, 2 x breakfast)

DATE

Fri 11 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£99

Single Room Supplement

£19

Travel Insurance

£27

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Christmas Experiences

Christmas in Harrogate & the Yorkshire Dales GALA

D

R& INNE

DISCO

The York Minster in the evening © Peter Austin

Step into Christmas in Harrogate and the scenic Yorkshire Dales, on our festive getaway which includes a full Christmas package at a beautiful hotel, a gala dinner and a party night. We will also pay visits to enchanting York, Thirsk, Ripon and Knaresborough.

Day 1 – We travel to The Crown Hotel which is centrally located in the boutique spa town of Harrogate. After settling in, enjoy free time to explore. Home to handsome historic buildings, Harrogate offers a magical and festive atmosphere as Christmas lights sparkle under the trees along The Stray and in the centre of town. Later, there will be mulled wine and canapés available before our evening meal.

Day 2 – We travel to the beautiful city of York for a little free time. Enjoy a wander along the cobbled streets, perhaps visit York’s Chocolate Story and pick up some of York’s most famous chocolate – a great stocking filler! Why not head to the magnificent York Minster, one of the largest in northern Europe? Later this afternoon you may choose to join us as we visit the local pantomime (Oh yes we do)!

Day 3 – Spend Christmas day in the comfort of the hotel with friends and loved‐ones where joyous festivities will follow breakfast. The Queen’s Speech will be broadcast, and throughout the day we will also enjoy a 4‐course traditional

Christmas Day lunch and a buffet dinner along with a selection of festive games.

Day 4 – Our first stop today is the traditional market town of Thirsk. Superbly positioned between the stunning North York Moors and the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, it centres around a bustling cobbled market square, dominated by the town clock. Later we visit Ripon where we will spend the remainder of the day. Founded 1300 years ago, Ripon is home to a magnificent 17th century cathedral and boasts a wealth of fine medieval streets.

This evening we will sit down to enjoy a special Gala Dinner at the hotel, followed by a disco.

Day 5 – After breakfast we travel to Knaresborough, an historic market and spa town in the borough of Harrogate.

Perched on the cliffs above the River Nidd, Knaresborough provides a warren of streets and stone staircases and is home to medieval buildings and fabulous independent shops. We continue our journey back to the East Midlands this afternoon.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Mulled wine and canapés on arrival 4‐course Christmas Day lunch & buffet dinner Gala dinner and a disco on boxing day Excursions to York, Thrisk, Ripon & Knaresborough Free time in Harrogate Optional excursion to the pantomime in York (please enquire at time of booking)

HOTEL 3 The Crown Hotel Harrogate Located within walking distance to Harrogate’s town centre, The Crown Hotel offers individually styled and comfortable bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities available.

DATE

Wed 23 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£529

Single Room Supplement

£89

Travel Insurance

£23

Please note theatre shows locations are subject to change due to availability. Skills Holidays will ensure to make you aware of such changes as soon as this information is available to The Company.

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Christmas Experiences

4* Christmas in Warwickshire Featuring the Cotswolds

NEW

Cotswold village in winter © AndyRoland

Treat yourself to a ‘Wonderful Christmas Time’ creating magical memories on our getaway to Shakespearean Warwickshire, staying at the 4-star Mercure Walton Hall Hotel & Spa. Surrounded by woodlands and private grounds, you can escape the crowds and simply relax, knowing everything has been taken care of. Our festive package comes with all the trimmings, including unlimited tea and coffee, hotel entertainment and a special Jazz evening with dancing.

Day 1 – With a comfort stop along the way we travel to Worcester for free time.

The city is best known for its magnificent cathedral, which rises majestically above the sparkling River Severn. With plenty of independent shops and restaurants as well as historic sights, your time in the city will fly by. Later, we will continue to our hotel.

After a delicious breakfast why not wander through the 65-acres of beautiful gardens before taking a dip in the pool or relaxing in the sauna. Today there will be unlimited tea or coffee available, a Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings, and an entertaining quiz which will follow this evening’s buffet dinner.

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast we travel to Stratford-upon-Avon for free time. Explore the picturesque streets lined with beautifully preserved half-timbered buildings and take in the wonderful festive atmosphere – great for shopping!

The Christmas lights, considered to be the finest in the country, adorn the town centre. After some free time, we return to our cosy hotel, where we have unlimited tea or coffee. This evening’s dinner is followed by entertainment and carol singers.

Day 4 – Escape the crowds this Boxing Day as we take you to Bourton-on-the-Water for free time. Regularly voted as one of the prettiest villages in England, Bourton looks even more picture perfect lit-up for the Christmas period, with its iconic Christmas tree placed in the River Windrush. Explore its selection of gift shops and cosy tea rooms, before we visit Stow-on-the-Wold for the afternoon. After some free time, we return to our hotel where dinner will be followed by a Jazz evening with dancing and bingo!

Day 3 – Celebrate Christmas Day in the warmth and comfort of our charming hotel surrounded by friends and loved ones.

Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our leisurely journey home, enjoying a visit to Warwick along the way.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Unlimited tea and coffee on 2 days Hotel entertainment including carol singers, quizzes and bingo Jazz evening with dancing on Boxing Day Christmas Day lunch & buffet dinner Excursions to Worcester, Stratford-upon-Avon, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold & Warwick

HOTEL 4 Mercure Warwickshire Walton Hall Hotel & Spa Situated within 65 acres of private grounds, our hotel is tucked away amid woodland and beautifully maintained Greenland, equipped with an in-house bar & restaurant as well as leisure facilities, including spa treatment rooms and a swimming pool.

DATE

Wed 23 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£529

Single Room Supplement

£89

Travel Insurance

£23

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10/02/2020 16:14:29

Christmas Experiences

Christmas in Llandudno: Llangollen Railway & Anglesey

W E LC

OME

DR

MIN INK &

CE PIE

©

Why not join us in Llandudno this year for a Christmas special with all the trimmings?

Staying at the Baytree hotel, our package includes visits to Anglesey, Caernarfon and Chester, a visit from ‘You know Who’ and lots of festive treats!

Day 1 – This morning we travel to Chester to soak up the seasonal atmosphere amidst the shops in the Black and White Rows for which the city is famous, before travelling to our hotel in Llandudno. On arrival, enjoy a welcome drink and mince pies.

Day 2 – This morning we explore the Isle of Anglesey, which is situated off the north coast of Wales. During our excursion we will visit ‘Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch,’ the longest place name in Britain, and Beaumaris.

From here, we visit Caernarfon – home to Wales’ most famous castle which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We have also arranged a visit to the local pantomime (Oh yes we have!) Afterwards, we will return to our comfortable hotel for dinner and entertainment.

Day 3 – Spend Christmas Day in the comfort and warmth of our glittering Baytree Hotel surrounded by new friends.

Later sherry and mince pies will be served as we wait for our very special guest – Father Christmas, who will be bringing a gift for each passenger. Today, there will

also be a banquet lunch and a light buffet dinner in the evening followed by festive entertainment.

Day 4 – Escape the crowds with us on Boxing Day as we take you on an enchanting journey exploring the winter wonderland of Snowdonia National Park. We drive through the Vale of Conwy and the lovely village of Betws-y-Coed, past the bridge of the Cauldron, Swallow Falls, Capel Curig and into Llanberis Pass overlooked by Mount Snowdon. We will return to the hotel via a visit to Conwy. Designated as World Heritage Site most famous for its magnificent 13th century Castle, it is also home to the smallest house in Britain – known as the Quay House.

Day 5 – After breakfast ‘yule’ be taken to the little town of Llangollen, where we have arranged a very special journey for you. All aboard the Llangollen Railway, where your decorated carriage awaits ready to transport you back in time. Sit back and relax with a mince pie and mulled wine during the journey. Afterwards, we will return home.

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door service 4 nights half board plus Welcome drink & mince pies on arrival Visit from Father Christmas and a gift Glass of sherry on Christmas Day Banquet lunch & buffet dinner on Christmas Day Journey on the Llangollen Steam Railway Excursions to Isle of Anglesey & Caernarfon with ticket to the local pantomime

HOTEL 3 The Baytree Hotel Llanududno Located on Llandudno’s seafront, the Baytree Hotel overlooks the Grand Promenade and the elegant lounge offers wonderful views of Llandudno Bay.

DATE

Wed 23 December Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£589 NIL

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

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25 10/02/2020 16:14:31

Christmas Experiences

H OT E

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Christmas in Suffolk ENT

Kings Chapel, Cambridge © GordonBellPhotography

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” on our getaway to Suffolk, where you can relax in the company of friends while exploring some of Britain’s most beautiful landscapes. Our break comes with all the trimmings with an excellent Christmas package at the renowned Mill Hotel in Sudbury. We will also visit Cambridge, Colchester, Bury St. Edmunds, Lavenham and Long Melford.

Day 1 – We travel to Cambridge for free time before continuing to our hotel.

Located on the River Cam, Cambridge is famed for its historic university, fine buildings and the beautiful King’s College Chapel.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Colchester, Britain’s oldest town. Its colourful history is reflected by award-winning museums, art galleries and beautiful buildings. After some free time, we return to the warmth of our hotel for a festive afternoon tea.

Day 3 – Enjoy Christmas day relaxing in the comfort of our hotel, surrounded by friends old and new. After breakfast there is a chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll and take time to read or play cards and games before a traditional Christmas lunch is served with wine. This afternoon a hot and cold buffet will be served for dinner.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment Festive afternoon tea on Christmas Eve Christmas Day lunch with wine included Special lunch on Boxing Day Excursions to Cambridge, Colchester, Bury St. Edmunds, Lavenham & Long Melford

Day 4 – Escape the crowds on Boxing Day when we visit Bury St. Edmunds for free time. Described as a ‘unique historical gem’, the town is best known for its striking combination of medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and a glorious HOTEL 3 cathedral. We return to the hotel for a The Mill Hotel Sudbury 2-course lunch with wine and an evening buffet dinner.

Day 5 – On our journey back to the East Midlands we will enjoy leisurely stops in the picturesque villages of Lavenham – widely acknowledged as the best example of a medieval wool town in England – and Long Melford. This quintessential English village boasts two large manor houses, an impressive village church and an eclectic main street bursting with independent shops, galleries, antique centres and tea rooms.

This Old English Style hotel is in the centre of Sudbury, set on the banks of the River Stour. It has a cosy bar, restaurant and picturesque views over the surrounding meadows.

DATE

Wed 23 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£529

Single Room Supplement

£89

Travel Insurance

£23

Festive programme subject to change dependent on the hotel’s managements discretion. Any alternatives made will be of a similar standard.

26 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 26

10/02/2020 16:14:39

Christmas Experiences

Catalonian Christmas & New Year C U ST

OM

VO U R E R FA

ITE

Calella © Oleg_P

Spend this festive season on Spain’s beautiful Costa Brava, enjoying Christmas and New Year with all the trimmings! Complete with a fantastic Christmas and New Year package and excursions to Barcelona, Besalu, Tossa de Mar, Pals and Girona, this break will leave you relaxed, recharged and ready for the new year ahead!

Day 1 – Driving south we sail to Europe and stay in an overnight hotel this evening.

Day 2 – We continue our journey to The Hotel Volga, Calella in Spain.

Day 3/5 – Enjoy the next three days to do as much or as little as you want in the resort. With a Gala dinner served on Christmas Eve and a special Christmas Day lunch, both served with sparkling wine – there will be no problem getting into the ‘festive’ spirit! During our stay, we also enjoy brunch (served daily from 8am until 12pm) and a 50% discount on all drinks and snacks (everyday between 2pm and 5pm). Calella is home to three big beautiful beaches with sparkling waters – all within walking distance from our hotel. The Playa Grande is situated just in front of our hotel and features the Beach Club of Hotel Volga.

Day 6 – No holiday to Catalonia would be complete without a visit to beautiful Barcelona! The cosmopolitan seaside city, with a history among the oldest in Europe.

Day 7 – Today you can join us for an optional excursion to Montserrat, a rocky mountain range and Santa Maria de Montserrat, a Benedictine monastery, that sits at the top of the mountain. Inside this

fascinating monastery is a statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, one of the few black Madonnas in Europe and is Catalonia’s most important religious retreat*.

Day 8 – Our first visit today is to Girona, renowned for its medieval architecture, walled Old Quarter and the Roman remains of the Forca Vella fortress. After some free time, we travel to Besalu, a magnificent example of a medieval town for some more free time.

Day 9/10 – Enjoy free time over the next couple of days.

Day 11 – After breakfast we travel to Pals, known as one of the most charming villages in the Costa Brava. Perched on a hilltop, it was built around a fortress and has kept its medieval look. After some free time, we travel to Tossa De Mar, an ancient fisherman’s village with an important historical background that has become a well-known tourist destination on the Costa Brava.

Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en-route 10 nights half board in Callela Entertainment at the hotel 2 gala dinners on Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve with wine 2 special lunches on Christmas Day & New Year’s Day with wine Brunch every day (8am – 12pm) 50% discount on all drinks every day (2pm – 5pm) Excursions to Barcelona, Girona, Besalu, Pals & Tossa De Mar *Optional visit to Montserrat £20 bookable with the driver

– does not include shuttle train or cable car

HOTEL 4

Hotel Volga, Calella Our hotel is located just a short walk from the beach, the relaxed rooms feature private balconies and free Wi-Fi.

Day 12 – We return to our overnight hotel.

Day 13 – We retrace our footsteps back through Europe, returning home later this evening.

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INCLUDES

DATE

Tue 22 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

13

£999

Single Room Supplement

£369

Travel Insurance

£45

27 10/02/2020 16:14:40

Christmas Experiences

HAPP

Y HO

THE U R AT

Very Merry Christmas in Valkenburg NEW

BA R

Valkenburg at Christmas © Kerststadvalkenburg

Experience a Dutch Christmas and join us on our Christmas getaway to Valkenburg.

From our base in Valkenburg, we offer an exceedingly good Christmas package with ‘Happy Hour’ and entertainment. Explore Maastricht and Venlo and pick up a Boxing Day bargain at Roermond Outlet Centre.

Day 1 – Our Skills sleigh will transport us to our hotel in Valkenburg, with comfort stops on the way.

Day 2 – Today we make the short journey to Maastricht. Take some time out to explore the network of underground passageways and vaults beneath the city, where a large part of the Netherlands’ art treasures were safeguarded during World War II. Tonight we enjoy entertainment and a drinks offer at the hotel bar.

Day 3 – Spend Christmas Day in the comfort of our hotel, surrounded by friends old and new. There will be

INCLUDES

Return Channel crossing 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment with live singer Happy hour at the bar Complimentary coffee at the hotel (10:30am everyday) complimentary coffee and tea available, and our traditional Christmas dinner will be Complimentary tea at the hotel (3:30pm everyday) Christmas Day dinner with a glass of wine followed by an evening of entertainment.

Boxing Day dinner with a glass of wine Excursions to Maastricht, Venlo & Roermond Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Venlo for Outlet Centre free time. Located on the Dutch-German border it is one of the largest cities in the HOTEL 3 province of Limburg. This afternoon we head to Roermond Designer Outlet Centre, Hotel Schaepkens Valkenburg where you can pick up a Boxing Day deal Our hotel is surrounded by picturesque gardens on the edge of or two! Tonight there will be a traditional the centre of Valkenburg, the city centre is a short walk away.

Boxing Day dinner served with a glass of Guests can make use of the complimentary Wi-Fi as well as wine.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

the infrared cabin, indoor swimming pool and fitness facilities, located 900 yards away from the hotel.

DATE

Wed 23 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£599

Single Room Supplement

£119

Travel Insurance

£30

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10/02/2020 16:14:46

Christmas Experiences

Christmas on the Rhine H OT E

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INCLUDES Return Channel crossing 5 nights half board Welcome drink Hotel entertainment on 3 nights Festive lunch on Christmas Day Visit from Father Christmas Christmas gift for each passenger Excursions to Bernkastel ‐ Kues, Cochem, Boppard, Rüdesheim & Wiesbaden

HOTEL 2 Hotel Wagner Kamp‐Bornhofen Our hotel in Kamp-Bornhofen is a 3-minute walk from the River

The Rhine Valley © Antonel

Day 1 – With comfort stops along the way, we travel to Kamp Bornhofen, one of the most Rhine and offers a spa with sauna, hot tub and solarium, as well beautiful areas in Germany. On arrival we enjoy a complimentary drink! as a traditional restaurant with garden terrace and Wi-Fi. Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the charming twin-towns of Bernkastel – Kues, split by the River Mosel they form what is often referred to as ‘the heart of the beautiful Middle Mosel’.

Day 3 – Celebrate Christmas day at leisure in our wonderful hotel, surrounded by friends old PRICE and new. After breakfast enjoy a little relaxation in the wellness centre.

DATE DAYS FROM Day 4 – We travel to the most romantic part of the Moselle Valley and the old town of Wed 23 December 6 £419 Cochem, under the steady watch of the romantic Reichsburg Castle. Afterwards, we visit Boppard, for free time, one of the Rhine’s prettiest towns.

Single Room Supplement £49 Day 5 – After breakfast we visit Rüdesheim and Wiesbaden for free time.

Travel Insurance £36 Day 6 – We wave goodbye to our wonderful hosts and retrace our footsteps back home.

New Year on the Rhine H OT E

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INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board Welcome drink Hotel entertainment on 3 nights Festive dinner on New Year’s Eve Firework display on New Year’s Eve Excursions to Koblenz, Cochem, Rüdesheim & Wiesbaden

HOTEL 2 Hotel Wagner Kamp‐Bornhofen Same as above.

Rhine Snow © Tourcomm Germany

Day 1 – We travel to Kamp Bornhofen. On arrival we enjoy a complimentary drink.

Day 2 – Today we visit Cochem and Koblenz – two of the most beautiful and oldest towns in Germany. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty; Cochem is regarded as the most romantic part of the Moselle Valley, whilst Koblenz, a 2000-year-old town is the meeting point of the Rhine and the Moselle River.

Day 3 – This morning we visit Rüdesheim and Wiesbaden for free time. Later we return to our hotel to prepare for this evening’s New Year’s Eve festivities! Our evening meal will be followed by a firework display put on by our wonderful hosts – the Wagner family!

Day 4 – We spend our New Year’s Day at leisure in the comfort of our hotel.

Day 5 – Ready for whatever the new year has in store, we retrace our footsteps home.

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DATE

Tue 29 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£349

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£30

29 10/02/2020 16:14:48

New Year Breaks

Amsterdam New Year

Fireworks over boats in Amsterdam canal

A network of canals to rival Venice, makes the perfect backdrop for exploring Amsterdam, one of the most exciting cities in Europe. The Dutch definitely know how to have a good time and with a whole host of events happening in the city, including the famous firework display. You will be able to create memories that will last a lifetime on our Dutch New Year treat!

Day 1 – Enjoying a relaxing journey as we travel to our hotel in Amsterdam, with comfort breaks along the way.

Day 2 – This afternoon we visit Utrecht, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands.

It has a compact medieval centre built around the Dom Tower, which you can see from any point in the city. Afterwards, we return to our hotel to freshen up before we take you into central Amsterdam for the New Year’s Eve celebrations! Tonight there will be a variety of events taking place throughout the city, including the famous fireworks display.

Day 3 – After a morning to relax and reminisce about the night before, we return to Amsterdam centre for free time, where we have also included a canal cruise for you. Amsterdam has plenty of museums, shopping streets, theatres, laid-back bars and guided tour options to chose from. Later, we return to our hotel for the evening. (Please note, some shops may not be open.)

Day 4 – After an unforgettable New Year, we retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing 3 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Amsterdam on New Year’s Eve Canal cruise in Amsterdam Visit to Utrecht

HOTEL 3 Tulip Inn Amsterdam Riverside Our 3 star hotel is located in the suburbs of Amsterdam and is a short drive away from Amsterdam centre. The restaurant and bar feature a cosy atmosphere and serve a wide choice of dishes.

DATE

Wed 30 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£349

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£30

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10/02/2020 16:14:53

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay

New Year Breaks

Fireworks over Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is one of the world’s greatest New Year celebrations, recently appearing in the ‘Discovery Channel’s – Top 25 World Travel Experiences’. This year as the bells strike midnight, join hands with friends from across the globe in the world’s biggest rendition of Auld Lang Syne!

Day 1 – En route to Scotland we visit the historic city of Durham which is home to one of the UK’s most recognisable landmarks Durham Cathedral, which, together with adjacent Durham Castle forms one of the most stunning city panoramas in Europe. Later, we continue to our 4-star hotel in Edinburgh.

Day 2 – Shortly after breakfast we travel to Stirling for free time. Stirling’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings including the glorious Stirling Castle, an imposing fortress that was one of Scotland’s most historically important sites. On our return to the hotel we enjoy a photo stop at the impressive Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures. Later, we will have time to freshen up before going out to central Edinburgh for tonight’s festivities. Our driver will take you to the tram stop, where we have included a one-way tram ticket into Edinburgh city centre. Alternatively, you can make your own way into the city as the tram stop is within walking distance from our hotel. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay

Festival has become one of the largest New Year celebrations in the world with events happening all over the city. These including a torchlight procession, live music concerts, a street party, traditional dancing and fireworks – this is sure to be a night you’ll never forget!

INCLUDES Return coach travel 3 nights bed & breakfast Excursions to Durham, Edinburgh, Stirling and The Kelpies

(Please note the tram stop is 500 yards away from the hotel and trams will be HOTEL 4 running every 20 minutes from midnight, 1st January and will be free of charge. West Moxy Edinburgh Airport End is the closest tram stop to the centre that will be open on New Years Eve.) Our stylish hotel is situated in Ingliston and features a bar, Day 3 – After a relaxing morning, we pay an afternoon return visit to Edinburgh for free time before our experienced driver takes us on a scenic drive across The Forth Bridge. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a cantilever railway bridge that crosses the Firth of Forth and is considered the symbol of Scotland. (Please note shops may not be open today).

Day 4 – After a fantastic stay we return home and into the brand-new year!

restaurant, complimentary Wi-Fi and a fitness centre.

DATE

Wed 30 December

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DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£299

Single Room Supplement

£149

Travel Insurance

£23

31 10/02/2020 16:14:56

Auld Lang Syne in the Lakes

New Year Breaks

H OT E

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Bowness-on-Windemere © Geoff Eccles

Ring out the old and welcome in the New Year in the magical setting of the Lake District. Treat yourself to a relaxing break surrounded by majestic rolling countryside and sparkling lakes that have been stirring the imaginations of visitors for centuries.

Day 1 – We travel north to the English heritage city of Lancaster, where you can discover a big history and lots of ancient stories hidden in its walls. You may simply choose to browse the array of quirky shops and galleries, before we head for our hotel in Kendal, where welcome hot drinks will be served on arrival.

Day 2 – This morning, our friendly driver will take you to Bowness-on-Windermere for a little free time to browse the quirky mix of craft, gift and antique shops plus a huge choice of cafés. This evening we will enjoy a special Gala Dinner followed by entertainment and a glass of bubbly at midnight to toast the New Year!

Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast we take you on a scenic drive around the lakes.

Throughout the day we will enjoy plenty of photo opportunities and leisurely breaks, including a visit to Ullswater, once described as England’s most beautiful lake. On our return journey to the hotel we will travel past Kirkstone Pass, the Lake District’s highest pass.

Day 4 – We return home via a scenic route through the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door service 3 nights half board Welcome drink on arrival New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Hotel entertainment & Buck’s Fizz on New Year’s Eve Excursions to Lancaster & Bowness-on-Windermere Scenic drive though the Lake District & the Yorkshire Dales

HOTEL 3 Riverside Hotel Kendal, Cumbria Located in Kendal town centre, our hotel is a 17th century building with a state-of-the-art leisure club. Most of the rooms have views of the River Kent and the restaurant uses local produce, some of which comes from the Victorian garden.

DATE

Wed 30 December Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£485 £80

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

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10/02/2020 16:15:02

New Year in Suffolk H OT E

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New Year Breaks ENT

Happy passengers on New Year in Suffolk 2019 © Karl Chapman

Ring out the old and welcome in the New Year in Sudbury, where we’ll be returning to The Mill Hotel, an outstanding converted watermill surrounded by some of England’s most picturesque landscapes, most of which inspired the romantic artist John Constable. So whether you wish to relax in the company of friends or simply getaway, our break is the perfect place to celebrate Auld Lang Syne and welcome in the new year!

Day 1 – We travel to Cambridge which is located on the River Cam and famed for its historic university, buildings and the beautiful King’s College Chapel. Later we arrive at our hotel.

Day 2 – Shortly after breakfast we take you to Woodbridge for free time. Located on the edge of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this vibrant market town offers excellent shopping opportunities with superb pubs and restaurants. After a little free time we visit Clacton-on-Sea before returning to the hotel to get ready for tonight’s special Gala 4-course dinner and New Year’s Eve celebrations, with entertainment and a glass of bubbly at midnight!

Day 3 – Nestled on the riverbank by an ancient bridge and framed by weeping willows our hotel affords the perfect

opportunity to enjoy a peaceful day at leisure and to do as much (or as little) as you wish. The Mill Hotel is a beautifully converted watermill with remarkable original features, among them the waterwheel itself – an atmospheric centrepiece in the restaurant – and a relaxing bar. If you did want to pop out for a walk the hotel is within minutes of some of the most picturesque villages and England’s loveliest countryside. Today a 2-course lunch will also be served before our evening meal.

INCLUDES

Return coach travel 3 nights half board Hotel entertainment Gala dinner on New Year’s Eve with a disco Glass of bubbly on New Year’s Eve Lunch on New Year’s Day Excursions to Cambridge, Bury St. Edmunds, Woodbridge & Clacton

HOTEL 3 The Mill Hotel Sudbury This Old English Style hotel is in the centre of Sudbury, set on the banks of the River Stour. It has a cosy bar, restaurant and picturesque views over the surrounding meadows.

Day 4 – Before returning home, we visit Bury St. Edmunds for free time. Described as a “unique historical gem” the town is best known for its striking combination of medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and a glorious cathedral.

DATE

Wed 30 December

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SEDULCNI

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£389

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£23

33 10/02/2020 16:15:03

New Year Celebrations in Liverpool

New Year Breaks

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights bed & breakfast Visit to Chester Free time in Liverpool Optional admission into The Cavern Club on New Year’s Eve (£29 per person)

HOTEL 4 Mercure Atlantic Tower Liverpool Our hotel overlooks the dock, with views of the River Mersey.

Just a short walk from Albert Dock and Liverpool One shopping complex it offers stylish guestrooms with tea and coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi.

Liverpool Pier © Adam Vaughan

Day 1 – With a comfort stop en route we travel to Liverpool for free time. Our hotel is located a short walk from the Albert Dock and Liverpool One shopping centre, so you can easily explore the city this New Year’s Eve! If live music is your jam, why not celebrate at the ‘most famous club in the world’, The Cavern Club? New Year’s Eve is a Beatles and 60s extravaganza with bands and solo artists playing throughout the whole night! You can purchase your ticket at the time of booking, which is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy free time in Liverpool.

Day 3 – This morning we visit Chester for a couple of hours before we travel back home.

The former Roman garrison is steeped in history and a unique atmosphere making Chester one of Britain’s most popular destinations.

DATE

Thu 31 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£239

Single Room Supplement

£109

Travel Insurance

£17

New Year in London REVIS

E

ERA D ITIN

RY

INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board (non-festive meals) Free time in London on New Year’s Eve Excursions to Oxford, Camden Lock and Stratford-upon-Avon

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Express Heathrow This modern Holiday Inn Express offers comfortable en-suite bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities in each room.

After an exciting day in London guests can relax at the onsite Great Room Bar and Lounge.

London New Year Fireworks © London Rclassenlayouts

Day 1 – We travel to Oxford, one of the oldest and most celebrated university cities in the world, for a little free time. Later, we continue to our hotel for our evening meal and to prepare for tonight’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. Leaving the hotel after dinner, perhaps welcome 2021 in style at the Mayor of London’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks display, or enjoy the unique atmosphere at Trafalgar Square. Please note our driver will pick you up at approximately 1am.

Day 2 – This afternoon we visit Camden Lock Market for free time.

Day 3 – Before returning home we visit Stratford-upon-Avon for free time. Set in beautiful rural Warwickshire, wander through this charming Tudor town and experience a taste of Olde England.

DATE

Thu 31 December

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£169

Single Room Supplement

£109

Travel Insurance

£17

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10/02/2020 16:15:10

Soul & Motown Party Break Featuring Leeds & York

Celebration Breaks INCLUDES

NEW

Return coach travel 1 night half board Soul & Motown tribute evening with gala dinner and live entertainment Skills promotional offers throughout the weekend Visits to Leeds & York

HOTEL 3 Midland Hotel Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western This city centre hotel offers opulent Victorian surroundings with modern day comforts including magnificent public areas, spacious bedrooms, opulent ballrooms and excellent restaurant.

Soul & Motown Tribute Act © Midland Hotel

Day 1 – Our first stop today is Leeds. Perhaps “Shop Around” – the compact city centre is a shopper’s paradise! Later we prepare to dance “All Night Long” at tonight’s Soul & Motown tribute night with live performances and music.

DATE Day 2 – After breakfast we enjoy some free time in the walled city of York, which has more attractions per square mile than anywhere else in the UK. Perhaps follow the ‘Selfie Trail’ - follow the footprints around the city and discover some of York’s most iconic photo Sat 16 January 2021 spots, including; Shambles Market Sign, York Minster, City Walls and York Railway Station. Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£99 £20 £17

Travel Insurance

Skills Party Break in Harrogate 2019

UT SELL O

TO U R

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Disco and party night Skills promotional offers throughout the weekend Free time in Harrogate

HOTEL 3 The Crown Hotel Harrogate Our hotel is just a short walk away from the world-famous Betty’s Tea Rooms and provides individually styled bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

Skills Party Break in Harrogate 2020 © Louise Smith

Day 1 – Following our departure we travel to Harrogate for free time, with comfort stops along the way. With its handsome historic buildings and verdant gardens, Harrogate is one of Yorkshire’s most elegant destinations. Our hotel is located within the centre of town, so once you’ve had a stroll around you can return to the hotel to prepare for this evening’s fabulous 3-course meal and party night!

Day 2 – After breakfast, enjoy a little more time to explore Harrogate. Perhaps enjoy a refreshing walk along the Heritage Spa Trail (located near the Turkish Baths), which provides you with a fascinating insight in to Harrogate’s spa history. You can also take advantage of Harrogate’s elegant mix of boutique shops and galleries before we return to the East Midlands.

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DATE

Sat 6 February 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£109

Single Room Supplement

£25

Travel Insurance

£17

35 10/02/2020 16:15:13

Potters Resort 5-Star Get Together:

Celebration Breaks

Featuring Norwich & The Norfolk Broads INCLUDES

NEW

Travel insurance Door‐to‐Door service 3 nights full board (4 meals per day: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, midnight dish)

Sunday night showtime with dinner and wine Live entertainment from Potters Theatre Company Excursions to Kings Lynn, Norwich & Wroxham

HOTEL 5

Potters Resort Hopton-on-Sea Our break includes Standard Bungalow accommodation featuring exclusively commissioned Potters beds by royal appointed bedmakers, Sleepeezee, as well as en-suite bathrooms and tea and coffee making facilities.

Norfolk Broads, River Bure © Steve Bramall

Day 1 – We make a leisurely stop in Kings Lynn before arriving at our resort this afternoon.

During our all-inclusive stay we will enjoy four meals a day (for each full day of our break) plus award-winning evening entertainment, activities and most of the facilities.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Norwich, home to one of England’s finest cathedrals and one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe.

Day 3 – This morning we take you to Wroxham, situated in the heart of the Norfolk DATE Broads, where you can enjoy the many tea rooms and gift shops that are located Fri 29 January 2021 along the river. After some free time, we return to the hotel for this evening’s 5-course Gala Dinner (with selected wine included) followed by fabulous West End style show Single Room Supplement entertainment.

Travel Insurance INCLUDED Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home, with comfort stops along the way.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£429 NIL

Amsterdam Mini Cruise - Skills Reunion BIR EA R LY

D PRI

CE

INCLUDES

Return ferry sailings Coach travel throughout 2 nights cabin accommodation Live entertainment on board Exclusive discounts & holiday offers throughout Free time in Amsterdam *Optional canal cruise (additional £17 per person)

DFDS Ferry Enjoy sailing between Newcastle and Amsterdam with DFDS, Europe’s leading Ferry Operator 2012 – 2019 and the World’s Leading Ferry Operator 2011 – 2019.

Additional Supplements

Channel in Amsterdam © Yasonya

Day 1 – We begin our journey to Newcastle and this afternoon we will board our cruise ferry. Once checked-into your cabins you can take advantage of the facilities on board, there’s plenty to keep you entertainment including live music, a casino, cinema and a choice of bars and restaurants.

Day 2 – Accompanied by our Skills representatives, we visit the city of Amsterdam for free time. Amsterdam’s canal-woven core is laced by atmospheric narrow lanes packed with museums, vintage-filled shops, cosy cafés and restaurants. A great way to relax and take in the splendid views of the city is with a canal cruise*. After some free time, we will return to our cruise ferry for this evening’s dinner and another night of entertainment.

Day 3 – We return home.

Outside cabin Outside cabin (single supplement) Low berth Low berth (outside) Meal supplement

= £15 per person = £39 per person = £19 per person = £29 per person = £69 per person

(2 x dinner, 2 x breakfast) DATE

Fri 22 January 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£69

Single Room Supplement

CALL

Travel Insurance

£27

36 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 36

10/02/2020 16:15:23

All Inclusive Stay at the Lake District H OT E

E RTA L ENT

INME

NT

2021 Holidays INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights all-inclusive 2 soup and sandwich lunches 2 Packed lunch 3 x Drinks Vouchers pppd (max 2 can be used for alcoholic drinks)

Hotel entertainment on 2 nights Excursions to Skipton, Keswick, Ambleside, Kendal, Cartmel & Lancaster Free time in Grange-over-Sands

HOTEL 3 Cumbria Grand Hotel Grange-over-Sands

Keswick © AndyRoland

Day 1 – We visit Skipton on our way to the hotel.

Day 2 – After collecting our packed lunch, we enjoy visits to Keswick, Ambleside and Kendal.

Day 3 – This morning we visit the beautiful village of Cartmel, home of the Sticky Toffee Pudding! Afterwards, we return to the hotel to enjoy a light soup and sandwich lunch.

Day 4 – Enjoy time at leisure to explore Grange-over-Sands, home to ornamental gardens, attractive shopping arcades and a seafront promenade. Later, there will be a soup and sandwich lunch served at the hotel before we head to Lancaster for the afternoon.

Day 5 – After breakfast we collect our packed lunches and begin our journey home.

Our charming hotel is set in 25-acres of gardens and woodlands.

Many rooms have panoramic sea views over Morecambe Bay and beyond to the Yorkshire Dales. With views across the Bay, the Hazelwood Restaurant serves traditional cuisine using the finest local ingredients.

DATE

Mon 22 February 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£329

Single Room Supplement

£69

Travel Insurance

£30

Highlights of Wales: Llanberis, Llandudno & Portmeirion B FREE

AR

INCLUDES Return coach travel 4 nights half board Free tea & coffee throughout your stay Unlimited house draught beer, lager, house wine and draught soft drinks (between 7pm – 11pm) Hotel entertainment Excursions to Llandudno, The Great Orme, Betwsy-Coed, Llanrwst & Chester Admission into Portmeirion

HOTEL 3 The Royal Victoria hotel Llanberis

Portmeirion © Tugodi

Our hotel is situated at the foot of Mount Snowdon, cradled between Lakes Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peries. Comfortable rooms feature home comforts and the well stocked bar offers a relaxing environment to enjoy after dinner.

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in Llanberis, with comfort breaks along the way.

Day 2 – We head to the seaside resort of Llandudno, where we visit The Great Orme for a Walk in showers available, please request at the time of booking. photo opportunity.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Betws-y-Coed, also known as ‘the Gateway to Snowdonia’.

PRICE DATE DAYS Day 4 – Today we visit Portmeirion, a unique village which was created by the architect FROM Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1976 and is set on its own private peninsula.

Mon 29 March 2021 5 £349 Later, we return to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure and an evening of entertainment following our meal.

Single Room Supplement £69 Day 5 – After breakfast we visit Chester the bewitching, beautiful and unique, ancient city £30 that is one of Britain’s most popular places to visit. After some free time, we return home. Travel Insurance

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37 10/02/2020 16:15:24

All Inclusive Burns Night Break

2021 Holidays

FREE

B

E RY AR EV

NIGH

T

INCLUDES

Return coach travel 3 nights all-inclusive Hotel entertainment on at least 2 nights including: Storytelling about the Jacobites and local clans, with weaponry display, a Scottish show and a quiz Glass of wine with dinners followed by tea/coffee Packed lunches or soup & sandwich lunches Free bar every night (between 7:30pm and 10:30pm) Farewell ‘Hot Toddy’ on departure Excursion to Sterling & The Kelpies Loch Lomond cruise with tea/coffee & shortbread served on board

HOTEL 3 The Winnock Hotel Drymen

Burns Montage

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in the pretty village of Drymen.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Stirling for free time. Stirling’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings. Then, we enjoy a photo stop at the impressive Kelpies the world’s largest equine sculptures. Later, take the chance to relax and indulge in our included afternoon tea, which will be served at our hotel.

Day 3 – Today we will travel the short distance to Tarbet, where we board our boat for a sailing on Loch Lomond. With tea, coffee and a shortbread served on board, our cruise will take us past Arklet Waterfalls, Honeymoon Island and across the deepest part of the Loch with live commentary. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Burns supper with a piper. In true Scottish style, don’t forget to take advantage of the free bar!

Day 4 – Enjoy a farewell hot toddy before we return home, full of festive ‘spirit’.

Situated in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park, our hotel is set in an 18th century building and features an on-site bar and restaurant. Guestrooms are decorated with warm tones and are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities.

DATE

Thu 21 January 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£269

Single Room Supplement

£59

Travel Insurance

£23

Please note: the hotel does not have a lift, but ground floor rooms are also available on request.

All Inclusive Stay & Michael Bublé Tribute Featuring Perth & Scone Palace NEW

INCLUDES Return coach travel 3 nights all-inclusive Welcome drink during dinner on 1 night Hotel entertainment on 2 nights including: a Michael Bublé tribute act and a full Scottish show Glass of wine with dinners followed by tea/coffee Packed lunches or soup & sandwich lunches Free bar every night (between 7:30 and 10:30) Excursion to Perth Entrance to Scone Palace and Grounds Optional excursion to Glasgow £10 per person

HOTEL 3 The Winnock Hotel Drymen

© Scone Palace

Day 1 – With a comfort break we travel to our hotel in the pretty village of Drymen.

During our stay we will be treated to a free bar each evening, a glass of wine served with dinner and of course, a fabulous Michael Bublé tribute night!

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Perth for free time. This afternoon we travel to Scone Palace and Gardens with entrance included. As one of Scotland’s most important stately home it has an exciting and colourful history and was the crowing place for many Scottish Kings, including Macbeth and Robert The Bruce.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure to do your own thing. Alternatively, you can join us for an optional excursion to Glasgow, a vibrant and welcoming city that is bursting with character and great experiences.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home.

38 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Festive Not Festive15.indd 38

Situated in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park, our hotel is set in an 18th century building and features an on-site bar and restaurant. Guestrooms are decorated with warm tones and are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities.

DATE

Fri 19 February 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£299

Single Room Supplement

£59

Travel Insurance

£23

10/02/2020 16:15:29

Spa Break OR Chester Explorer

2021 Holidays INCLUDES

NEW

Return coach travel 1 night half board Optional spa treatments Free time in Chester PRE-BOOKABLE TREATMENTS 25 Minute Back Massage (£25 per person) 25 Minute Head Massage (£25 per person) 25 Minute Indian Head Massage (£25 per person) 25 Minute Pink Boutique Organic Facial (£25 per person) We will let you know either by telephone or in writing at least two weeks before departure the time of your pre-booked treatment.

HOTEL 4 Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel © Visit Chester

Fancy a break from the stresses and strains in life? Our spa breaks make the perfect getaways for couples looking to unwind together, friends planning a relaxing weekend away or anyone who just wants to get away for a little rest and relaxation!

Day 1 – Travel to our hotel. Some passengers will have spa treatments on day 1 soon after arrival. The rest will be dropped off in Chester for free time.

Day 2 – Some passengers will have free time & treatments at hotel. The rest will have free time in Chester.

Boasting 2-acres of beautiful gardens our hotel provides a bar, restaurant, complimentary Wi-Fi, garden terrace and a ‘Feel Good Health Club’ with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and hot tub. Guestrooms feature a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

DATE

Sat 30 January 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£99

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£17

4* Liverpool City Break ENT CITY C

RE HO

TEL

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 or 2 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Liverpool Optional Visit to The Beatles Story (£16 per person)

HOTEL 4 Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower Aloft Liverpool Your hotel will be confirmed at the time of booking.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 12 June 2020

2

£99

Fri 3 July 2020

3

£169

Fri 14 August 2020

2

£99

Fri 11 September 2020

3

£169

Fri 2 October 2020

2

£99

Sat 13 February 2021

2

£99

Sat 27 March 2021

2

£99

DATE

Skyline of Liverpool through Albert Dock © Trabantos

Day 1 – We take you to our hotel in Liverpool, and once you’ve checked in to your room you are free to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 2 – After breakfast explore Liverpool in your own time before we return home this afternoon. Today, you will have the option to visit The Beatles Story, which takes you on an incredible immersive journey of the how four young lads from Liverpool were propelled to the dizzy heights of fame and fortune!* The Albert Dock, situated in a spectacular World Heritage waterfront, also features the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in the country and is bursting with international art and award-winning museums whilst the Cavern Quarter is home to one of the most famous clubs in the world – the Cavern Club where the Beatles regularly performed.

Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast enjoy some free time before we return home.

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Single Room Supplement

£30

Travel Insurance

£17

39 10/02/2020 16:15:31

2021 Holidays

Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park: Secrets of War INCLUDES

SEDULCNI

Return coach travel 1 night half board at Holiday Inn Express Heathrow *** Free time in London with the opportunity to visit the Imperial War Museum Admission into Bletchley Park

© Bletchley Park

DATE

Day 1 – We take you into London where you have the opportunity to visit the Imperial War Sat 23 January 2021 Museum, founded during the First World War. After some free time, we continue to our hotel.

Sat 13 March 2021 Day 2 – Visit Bletchley Park (admission included). Explore the iconic WWII Codebreaking Huts Single Room Supplement and blocks and marvel at the astonishing achievements of the Codebreakers whose work is said to have helped shorten the war by two years. After some free time, we return home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£109

2

£109 £19 £17

Travel Insurance

Railways & Waterways of Lancashire INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board at The Legacy Preston International Hotel *** Preston Tea and coffee served after dinner Journey on the East Lancashire Steam Railway with a cream tea Cruise with a hot drink Visits to Bury & the Barton Grange Garden Centre DATE © East Lancashire Steam Railway

Day 1 – We take you to Bury for free time. This afternoon we have arranged a journey on Sat 6 February 2021 the East Lancashire Steam Railway with a cream tea served on board.

Single Room Supplement Day 2 – This morning we travel to Barton Grange Garden Centre for our cruise on the Travel Insurance award-winning widebeam canal boat Kingfisher. Sit back and relax with a hot drink as we pass through delightful countryside, with views stretching towards the Bowland Fells.

Afterwards, enjoy a little free time to explore Barton Grange Garden Centre before we return home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£119 £19 £17

Settle to Carlisle Railway INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night half board Journey on the Settle to Carlisle Railway Excursion to Harrogate DATE

Sat 27 March 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£119

Single Room Supplement

£25

Travel Insurance

£17

© Settle to Carlisle Railway, Ribblehead Viaduct

Day 1 – We head to Settle for our journey on the world-famous Settle to Carlisle Railway. Running through some of the most attractive scenery in the Yorkshire Dales and Cumbrian Fells, the Settle – Carlisle Railway is renowned for its Victorian architecture, huge stone viaducts and long tunnels. Afterwards we continue to our overnight hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Harrogate, one of Yorkshire’s most elegant destinations! This characterful little town isn’t short of interesting attractions including delightful gardens, fascinating shops and smart little tearooms. After some free time, we return home.

40 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 40

10/02/2020 16:15:35

North West Winter Warmer

2021 Holidays

Featuring East Lancashire Steam Railway with Cream Tea NEW

INCLUDES Door‐to‐Door service 1 night half board at the Best Western Lancashire Manor *** Scenic drive through the Peak District National Park Visits to Bakewell, Oswaldtwistle Mills Shopping Village & Garden Centre & Bury Transport Museum Journey on the East Lancashire Steam Railway with cream tea

© East Lancashire Steam Railway

Day 1 – Enjoy a scenic drive through the Peak District National Park as we travel to Bakewell, DATE before continuing to the award-winning Oswaldtwistle Mills Shopping Village & Garden Sat 16 January 2021 Centre. From here we travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 2 – We visit Bury Transport Museum. Afterwards step aboard and experience the sounds, Single Room Supplement smell and stunning surrounds on the award-winning East Lancashire Railway with a cream tea, Travel Insurance miniature cake and tea or coffee served on board. Afterwards, we return home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£149 £15 £17

Snowdrops in the Cotswolds INCLUDES Door‐to‐Door service 1 night half board at Jurys Inn Swindon *** Free time in Bourton‐on‐the‐Water with a cream tea Admission to Painswick Rococo Garden DATE

Sat 27 February 2021

Snowdrops in a Field

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£149

Single Room Supplement

£20

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – We visit Bourton‐on‐the‐Water, regularly voted as one of the prettiest villages in England, where we have arranged a cream tea for you to enjoy. Afterwards we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Painswick Rococo Garden during the snowdrop season – a visit here will take you back to the elegance and sophistication of the early 1700s, a time when gardens were fashionable theatrical sets. After you have explored, why not enjoy a slice of a delicious homemade cake in the cosy café before we return home.

Kew Gardens Orchid Festival & Windsor INCLUDES Door-to-Door service 1 night half board at Holiday Inn Express Heathrow *** Admission into Kew Gardens Visit to Windsor DATE

Sat 20 February 2021

© Kew Gardens

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£149

Single Room Supplement

£20

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – Today we will visit Royal Botanic Gardens Kew for the Annual Orchids Festival. Enjoy a horticultural paradise of colourful floral displays, including magnificent arches decorated with orchids! Each year Kew brings a new theme to this wonderful celebration of the orchid, allowing you to escape the winter outside amidst impressive glasshouses as you explore the exotic world of orchids and tropical plants. Afterwards we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – Before returning home we enjoy some free time in Windsor. Crowned by the stunning Windsor Castle – the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world! This unique and historic destination is the perfect day out.

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41 10/02/2020 16:15:36

2021 Holidays

Florimania at Hampton Court Palace Mother’s Day Special

NEW

INCLUDES Door-to-Door service 1 night half board at Holiday Inn Express Heathrow Free time in Cambridge Admission to Florimania at Hampton Court Palace DATE

Sat 13 March 2021

Florimania © Historic Royal Palaces

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£155

Single Room Supplement

£20

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – We travel to Cambridge, a university town extraordinaire for free time before continuing to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Hampton Court Palace for the annual Florimania. Each year the Kings Apartment blooms with elaborate flower arrangements, bright colours and the alluring scents of springtime, designed by the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies. The palace will also be serving up homemade cakes, sandwiches, scones and pink bubbly which you can enjoy in the Garden Room before we return home this afternoon.

Knebworth House & Thriplow Daffodil Delights NEW

INCLUDES Door-to-Door service 1 night half board at Novotel Stevenage **** Guided tour of Knebworth House & Gardens followed by cream tea Excursion to Thriplow Daffodil & Country Fair event DATE

Sat 27 March 2021

© Knebworth House

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£169

Single Room Supplement

£20

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – We travel to Knebworth House and Gardens for a fascinating guided tour of the magnificent house. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious cream tea followed by some free time to wander through the 28-acres of formal gardens. We will continue to our overnight hotel.

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast we make our way to Thriplow for the annual Daffodil & Country Fair event. Step back in time and wander through the beautiful traffic free lanes and connecting footpaths as you visit residents ‘open gardens’ with daffodil displays, craft stalls, tearooms, marching bands, vintage cars, live music and perhaps even a bit of Morris dancing! After some free time, we continue our journey home.

Cavern Club, Liverpool & Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey’ to Port Sunlight INCLUDES

Door-to-Door Service 1 night half board at Best Western Plus Lancashire Manor *** Wigan Free time in Liverpool One way crossing on the Mersey ferry Admission into Cavern Club & Port Sunlight Museum

DATE

Sat 13 February 2021

Liverpool © Silvan Bachmann

DAYS

PRICE FROM

2

£135

Single Room Supplement

£15

Travel Insurance

£17

Day 1 – We travel to Liverpool to see the Famous Cavern Club (with entrance included). Arriving in the city centre, we will be welcomed on board our coach by a member of the Liverpool Tourism Board for a brief introduction of this famous city. Then, enjoy free time before we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – We take the Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey’ for a visit to Port Sunlight Museum, packed with nostalgia for you to enjoy! Including the story of Ringo Starr’s first performance with the Beatles (which took place in Port Sunlight in 1962), after a lovely trip, we will make our way back home.

42 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 42

10/02/2020 16:15:42

Rails & Royals in Scotland Featuring the Jacobite Steam Railway

2021 Holidays INCLUDES Travel insurance Door‐to‐Door service 4 nights half board Journey on the Jacobite Steam Railway Entrance to to Balmoral Castle & Gardens Excursions to Mallaig, Aviemore & Braemar Scenic drive through Cairngorms National Park

HOTEL 3

Fishers Hotel Pitlochry Centrally located in the beautiful Victorian Town of Pitlochry in the Perthshire Highlands. The spacious bedrooms each feature a TV and tea and coffee making facilities. © The Jacobite Railway, Glenfinnan Viaduct

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to Pitlochry with a comfort stop en route.

Day 2 – We travel to Fort William where we join the Jacobite Steam Railway for the return journey to Mallaig. This section of the West Highland Line crosses the 100ft-high Glenfinnan Viaduct used in the Harry Potter film series.

Day 3 – Enjoy a scenic drive through along Cairngorms National Park - the UK’s largest National Park, with a visit Aviemore for free time before returning to Pitlochry for the afternoon at leisure Day 4 – This afternoon we head to Balmoral Castle with entry into the grounds, gardens, exhibitions and gift shop as well as the largest room in the castle, the Ballroom. En-route back to the hotel, we stop briefly in the picturesque village of Braemar, where we have time at leisure.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Mon 26 April

5

£499

Thu 30 September

5

£565

DATE

£60

Single Room Supplement Travel Insurance INCLUDED

Harrogate & Holmfirth in Springtime Featuring the Famous Good Old Days Variety Music Hall NEW

INCLUDES Inclusive insurance Door‐to‐Door service 2 nights half board Ticket to the Good Old Days Variety Show at the City Varieties Music Hall in Leeds Excursions to Holmfirth Free time in Harrogate

HOTEL 3

Cairn Hotel Harrogate Our grand, Victorian hotel boasts private gardens, a gym, bar, lounge area and restaurant. The traditionally furnished guestrooms include a TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

Dancer at a Variety Show © Sviatlana Lazarenka

Day 1 – We make our way to Harrogate for an afternoon at leisure. Our hotel is located a short walk away from the centre (approx. 5 minutes).

Day 2 – After a leisurely morning “Don’t Dilly Dally on the Way”, because this afternoon we take you to the City Varieties Music Hall, for the legendary Good Old Days Variety Show. Filmed at The Varieties for, and aired on BBC for 30 years (from 1953 to 1983), the show recreates an authentic atmosphere of the Victorian-Edwardian music hall with songs and sketches of the era performed by present-day performers in the style of the original artistes.

Day 3 – After breakfast we travel to Holmfirth for free time. Explore the familiar locations from the hit TV series ‘Last of the Summer Wine’ including ‘Syd’s Café’ and Nora Batty’s steps. From here we continue mid-afternoon back home.

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

Festive Not Festive15.indd 43

DATE

Fri 19 March 2021 Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£275 £60

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

43 10/02/2020 16:15:44

Tartan Tapestry in the Trossachs:

2021 Holidays

F

AR E REE B

V E RY

N

IGHT

All Inclusive House Party with Free Bar INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door service 4 nights all-inclusive stay Welcome drink reception Hotel entertainment on 3 nights (including a Scottish weaponry display with swords and a Scottish show)

Free bar every night (7:30pm – 10:30pm) Daily packed lunch or soup & sandwiches Excursions to Carlisle, Loch Lomond Shopping Village with a cruise & Stirling Tour & tasting at Glengoyne Highland Malt Distillery Scenic drive around the Trossachs with stops at Aberfoyle & Callander

HOTEL 3

Winnock Hotel Drymen

Highland Cow in the Trossachs

Day 1 – We travel north to Carlisle before continuing to our hotel in the pretty village of Drymen. Later, we enjoy a welcome drinks reception before dinner.

Day 2 – We visit Glengoyne Highland Malt Distillery for a tour and tasting. We return to the hotel for a light soup lunch followed by the afternoon at leisure.

Day 3 – We pick up our packed lunch and head to the ‘Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond for a circular cruise with views of the magnificent Ben Lomond. We also visit Loch Lomond Shores, a shopping village home to a mix of department stores, cafés and restaurants.

Day 4 – Our driver will take us on a circular drive through the scenic Trossachs. Sit back and relax as we take in the wonderful sights of Loch Katrine, with stops at Aberfoyle and Callander – known as ‘the Gateway to the Highlands’. We also visit Stirling, a beautiful and historic city which is a great place to learn about Scotland’s impressive past.

Day 5 – We return home with comfort stops along the way.

Situated in the heart of Loch Lomond National Park, our hotel is set in an 18th century building and features an on-site bar and a restaurant. Rooms are decorated with warm tones and are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities.

DATE

Mon 1 February 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£425 £80

Single Room Supplement Travel Insurance INCLUDED

Springtime Splendour on the South Coast H

RICE ALF P

BA R

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door Service 4 nights half board Welcome tea/coffee on arrival Hotel entertainment on 2 nights (quizzes and bingo) Half price bar each evening from 6pm – 10pm (draught, beers, house wine and soft drinks)

Excursions to Winchester, Brighton, Chichester on market day, Arundel & Littlehampton

HOTEL 3 Beachcroft Hotel Bognor Regis

Panoramic View of Brighton © Dneelanjan

Day 1 – Our first stop is Winchester, where you can explore the medieval streets, visit the boutique shops and admire the age-old buildings. We then continue to our seafront hotel in the village of Felpham where a welcoming hot drink awaits.

Day 2 – We visit Brighton for free time. Perhaps visit The Royal Pavilion, the spectacular seaside palace of the Prince Regent (George IV) or The Lanes, a maze of quirky shops.

Day 3 – This morning we visit the historic city of Chichester on market day. You may wish to explore the cathedral with its ancient city walls, the Pallant House Gallery or simply browse the market.

Day 4 – This morning is at leisure followed by an afternoon visit to the market town of Arundel returning via the small town of Littlehampton.

Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our journey home.

With its unique seafront position, in the village of Felpham, our hotel offers a heated indoor swimming pool, gourmet restaurant, bar and complimentary Wi-Fi.

DATE

Mon 1 March 2021 Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£399 £50

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

44 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 44

10/02/2020 16:15:50

2021 Holidays

Spring on the Lakes Como & Maggiore Featuring Milan L

OMO AKE C

CRUIS

E

Lake Como © Frederick Boyle

The Lakes Como and Maggiore are undoubtedly two of the most famous in the Italian region. Sun-kissed and surrounded by dramatic cliffs, they are the epitome of elegance, beauty, history and culture. Come away with us this spring and discover the enchanting lakeside resorts of Cadenabbia, Ascona and Locarno and take a boat cruise on Lake Como.

Day 1 – We begin our leisurely journey to our overnight hotel with comfort breaks along the way.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to the Hotel Britannia Excelsior.

Day 3 – Enjoy a relaxing day in our lakeside resort, where the lush mountains descend into the glistening Lake Como. Today we have also included a boat cruise.

Day 4 – We travel to Ascona and Locarno, which are located on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Ascona is renowned for its Mediterranean-style architecture and café-lined promenade, whilst Locarno is acclaimed to have the warmest climate in Switzerland, in which part of the lake is situated.

Day 5 – We visit Milan, a city with an influential past and a rich cultural heritage.

At the heart of the historic centre is Milan’s Piazza del Duomo, home to the most famous monument in Milan, the Duomo Cathedral. As well as being the largest cathedral in the world, this was also the place where Napoleon was crowned the “Emperor of the French and King of Italy” in 1805. Other points of interest include La Scala Opera and Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to Da Vinci’s “Last Supper”.

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en-route 4 nights half board Boat trip on the Lake Como Free time on Lake Como Visits to Locarno, Ascona & Milan Optional Excursion to Isola Bella & the Borromean Palace (additional £50 per person)

HOTEL 3 Hotel Britannia Excelsior Cadenabbia Our hotel is set on the shores of Lake Como and is a former 19th-century inn. The guest rooms are tastefully decorated with luxury fabrics and antique furniture.

Day 6 – We leave our resort and return to our overnight hotel.

Day 7 – We continue home.

DATE

Sat 20 March 2021

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 45

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£559

Single Room Supplement

£119

Travel Insurance

£40

45 10/02/2020 16:15:55

Cream of Cornwall: Lost Gardens of Heligan Magnolias & Falmouth

2021 Holidays

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INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door service 4 nights half board Porterage at the hotel Hotel entertainment Admission into the Lost Gardens of Heligan with a traditional Cornish Cream Tea Excursions to Mevagissey, Falmouth, Truro & Exeter Free time in Newquay

HOTEL 3 Barrowfield Hotel Newquay

Mevagissey © Susandaniels

Day 1 – We enjoy a leisurely journey to Newquay, with comfort stops en-route.

Day 2 – We travel to the charming fishing port of Mevagissey for free time. Later, we visit The Lost Gardens of Heligan, with admission and a cream tea included. This ‘secret garden’ was accidently re-discovered in 1992 from under decades of tangled weeds.

Day 3 – You can explore charming Newquay in your own time today. Located on Cornwall’s Atlantic Coast, Newquay was voted as “one of the nation’s favourite seaside towns” in the Which? Magazine holiday survey.

Day 4 – This morning we travel to the bustling sea port of Falmouth. Later, we visit the cathedral city of Truro, the UK’s most southerly city.

Day 5 – After breakfast we travel to Exeter home to the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum. After some free time, we return home.

Our hotel is a short 10-minute walk from Newquay town centre.

The entertainment room features live acts every night and the spacious lounge offers plenty of space to relax in.

DATE

Wed 31 March 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£399 NIL

Single Room Supplement Travel Insurance INCLUDED

-

Beautiful Bournemouth & Dorset Delights AR 99p B

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N V E RY

AT T IGHT

HE HO

TEL

INCLUDES

Travel insurance Door-to-Door Service Porterage at the hotel 5 nights half board 99p bar each evening (from 6pm - 10pm, selected beer, house spirits & soft drinks only)

Excursions to Salisbury, Poole, Southampton, Swanage & Corfe Castle (Isle of Purbeck) Free time in Bournemouth

HOTEL 3 The Riviera Hotel Bournemouth

Bournemouth © Ian Woolcock

Day 1 – We visit the cathedral city of Salisbury, before continuing to our hotel.

Day 2 – After a leisurely start we make our way to nearby Poole for the afternoon.

Day 3 – After breakfast we take a scenic drive through the New Forest National Park to Southampton, where we will enjoy some free time.

Day 4 – Enjoy a free day in Bournemouth. Why not take a stroll amongst the town’s many glorious gardens and parks?

Day 5 – Today we hop over to the Isle of Purbeck, this peninsula in Dorset, is bordered by water on three sides and is a must-see for anyone with an interest in nature, architecture and stunning views. Here we will visit Swanage and Corfe Castle, one of Britain’s most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War. Day 6 – After breakfast we begin the journey home with a comfort break en route.

The Riviera Hotel has a peaceful location; just a few hundred meters from the clean, sandy beach it overlooks the trees of Alum Chine to the bay. Leisure facilities include a hot tub and indoor pool. Guestrooms feature tea and coffee facilities, a flatscreen TV, and many have a balcony with sea views.

DATE

Sun 21 March 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

6

£459

Early bookers pay no single supplement Travel Insurance INCLUDED

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10/02/2020 16:16:02

2021 Holidays

Elegant Sidmouth Featuring South Devon & Dorset Delights CRUIS

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E RI ON TH

VER E

XE

Sidmouth © Alexey_Fedoren

Join us for a charming getaway to Sidmouth, one of the most elegant resorts in south Devon. With unspoilt coast and countryside all around us, we enjoy interesting visits to the Isle of Portland – home to the iconic red and white striped Portland Bill Lighthouse, Exmouth for a cruise on the River Exe and Weymouth Day 1 – Enjoy a relaxing journey to our Sidmouth hotel, with comfort a break along the way.

Day 2 – This morning we travel to Exeter one of the most attractive and historically interesting cities in England. Pre-dating the arrival of the Romans in AD 50, Exeter’s history is a rich and long one, with popular attractions including the unique Underground Passages, the magnificent cathedral and imposing Roman wall. This afternoon we travel to Exmouth where we enjoy a tranquil cruise on the River Exe taking in the beautiful scenery and fascinating wildlife along the way.

Day 3 – After breakfast, enjoy free time in the lovely seaside town of Sidmouth, which lies on the Jurassic Coast, dominated by vivid red sandstone cliffs that date back to the Triassic period. Along the front is the Millennium Walkway, which stretches the length of the beach and is perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Day 4 – We travel to Weymouth for free time, regularly voted as one of the top ten beach destinations in Europe, with its beautiful golden sands and pretty harbour side. Later, we drive to the Isle of Portland for a visit to the famous Portland Bill Lighthouse, which has been standing majestically for the past one hundred and eleven years. Inside, you can learn about the lighthouse and its keepers and if you manage to climb the 153 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with views over Dorset’s beautiful Jurassic Coast.

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door service 4/5 nights half board Tea/coffee served after dinner Excursions to Exeter, Weymouth & Portland Bill Lighthouse Cruise on the River Exe Free time in Sidmouth Journey on the Seaton Railway (6-day tour only)

HOTEL 3 Royal York & Faulkner Hotel Sidmouth Unwind in the York Lounge overlooking the Jurassic cliffs of Sidmouth, or the reading room and writing room where there are games and a television. The hotel’s stunning spa features Italian natural stone, glass and steel. Its centrepiece is a mosaic tiled hydrotherapy pool with air and water jets. The Hydra-Spa also has a steam cabin and traditional sauna.

Day 5 (6-Day tour only) – This morning we visit nearby Seaton where we have included a journey through the Exe Valley on the unique narrow-gauge tramway. We return to Sidmouth for the afternoon at leisure in resort.

FINAL DAY – After a wonderful stay we return home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Tue 11 May 2021

6

£699

Mon 5 July 2021

5

£599

Sun 19 September 2021

6

£725

DATE

Single Room Supplement

NIL

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

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47 10/02/2020 16:16:05

Colourful Cornish Highlights Featuring Rosemundy House Hotel

2021 Holidays

H OT E

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St Ives © Xantana

Turquoise waters, golden beaches, picturesque villages and harbour towns, Cornwall has it all! On this break we will explore some of our favourite Cornish highlights, with visits to the world-renowned Eden Project, St Ives, Falmouth and Truro.

Day 1 – With comfort stops along the way, we take a leisurely break of journey in Gloucester. Later, we will continue our journey to the Rosemundy Hotel situated in the quaint village of St Agnes. Promising a relaxing stay, from start to finish, there will be porterage provided at the hotel and guests can also enjoy the outdoor heated swimming pool, cosy lounges, well stocked bar and excellent restaurant.

Day 2 – We enjoy a visit to the Eden Project today. Dubbed the Eighth Wonder of the World by some, the Eden Project is a global garden housed in tropical biomes that nestle in a crater the size of 30 football pitches.

Day 3 – Tucked into a stunning and unspoilt spot on the north Cornish coast, St Agnes is a compact little village with lots of independent shops, beautiful beaches and world-class pubs and restaurants that you can enjoy in your own time today. For fans of Ross Poldark, Winston Graham used the whole parish as the inspiration for his Poldark series of books, dubbing it ‘Poldark Country’.

Day 4 – This morning we travel to St Ives, the dazzling jewel in Cornwall’s crown. Enjoy free time to explore this picturesque fishing harbour and seaside town at your own pace today. Later we visit Land’s End later this

afternoon. Located on the most southwesterly point of England, it is one of the UK’s most iconic coastal landscapes and is home to some incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 5 – After breakfast we visit Falmouth, one of Cornwall’s largest towns, for free time.

Explore Falmouth’s fascinating maritime heritage as you wander along the pretty old harbour and docks, or why not visit the National Maritime Museum? This afternoon we travel to Truro, the UK’s most southerly city.

Day 6 – Our first visit today is to Port Isaac*, a small fishing village that is possibly best known as the fictional Portwenn from the ITV television series Doc Martin starring Martin Clunes. The narrow, winding streets are lined with old whitewashed cottages and traditional granite, slate-fronted Cornish houses, many of which are listed as of architectural or historic importance. After some free time, we travel to Padstow for the remainder of the day.

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door service Porterage at the hotel 5/6 nights half board Hotel entertainment Admission into the Eden Project Excursions to St Ives, Falmouth & Truro Free time in St Agnes

HOTEL 3 Rosemundy House Hotel St Agnes Rosemundy House is a family run Georgian hotel which offers the perfect base and is equipped with all of the modern facilities that you would expect including flat-screen TVs with Freeview and hairdryers.

DATE

DAYS

PRICE FROM

*Please note: Due to the local topography, this pretty fishing village is not accessible to our coaches, therefore our driver will drop us off at the top. The walk down into the port takes approx. 10 – 15 minutes.

Mon 24 May 2021

6

£599

Tue 10 August 2021

7

£715

FINAL DAY – We retrace our footsteps home.

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

Single Room Supplement

NIL

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10/02/2020 16:16:12

Hebridean Island Adventure: Isles of Lewis, Skye & Harris

2021 Holidays

Portree Harbor © Jui-Chi Chan

Discover a truly unique way of life as we explore the rich history behind these beautiful inter-connected islands. See the 5,000 year old Callanish Stones with your own eyes and marvel at the Iron Age structure of Carloway Broch, said to be over 2000 years old. There’s also the opportunity for you to sit back and relax whilst admiring the spectacular view from the comfort of your own seat during the guided tour through Lewis and Harris.

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel with comfort stops along the way.

Day 2 – After breakfast we continue our journey enjoying a leisurely stop in Fort William. After some free time, we travel north past Eilean Donan Castle, the second most photographed castle in Scotland to the Isle of Skye where our next hotel is based.

Day 3 – Enjoy a magnificent drive across Skye as we catch our ferry across to North Uist. This afternoon we take you on a scenic coastal drive of the Uists passing lochs and golden beaches, before checking into our hotel where we will spend the night.

Day 4 – We sail over to Lewis and Harris, the largest of the Hebridean Islands. This rugged landscape of deep-sea lochs and rugged mountains retains a proud history dating back to prehistoric times. We will stay at our hotel here for the next two nights.

Day 5 – Today we have arranged a guided tour of Lewis and Harris with an experienced island guide. Our guide and local coach will pick us up at the hotel and take us around the best bits of the isle.

During the day we will visit the impressive 5,000 year old standing stones of Callanish and the imposing Carloway Broch – a fortified tower dating back over 2,000 years. We have also included entrance into the Blackhouses, Museum which are ancient thatched settlements.

Day 6 – This morning we catch the ferry across to Ullapool and travel to Inverness, the ‘Capital of the Highlands’.

After a couple of hours free time we enjoy a leisurely drive south through the picturesque Spey Valley and reach our overnight hotel.

Day 7 – After an amazing trip filled with lots of incredible sights, we travel home.

INCLUDES Travel insurance Door-to-Door service Ferry sailings 6 nights half board Guided tour of Lewis and Harris including entrance into the Black Houses & Museum Excursions to Isle of Skye, the Uists, Lewis and Harris, Inverness & Spey Valley

HOTEL 2 HOTELS TBC The hotels used throughout this holiday will be of a minimum of 2 stars or above, and will be confirmed to you at least six weeks before your departure.

DATE

Sat 22 May 2021 Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£899 £125

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

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49 10/02/2020 16:16:17

Isle of Wight Delights: Mottistone Manor Garden & Osbourne House

2021 Holidays

NO SI

N

UPP GLE S

LEME

NT

INCLUDES

Ventnor Beach, Isle of Wight © GordonBellPhotography

We are delighted to return to the Trouville Hotel in Sandown, home to miles of sandy beaches. Our holiday includes excursions to the famous Needles, one of the most photographed areas on the Isle of Wight, and the Mottistone Manor Garden.

Day 1 – Sit back, relax and enjoy the journey to the Isle of Wight.

Day 2 – Our first stop today is at the seaside resort of Shanklin, where over 70% of the area has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

We then travel to Godshill village, which boasts some of the oldest architecture on the Island. Enjoy the delightful medieval church, charming thatched-roof cottages and winding main-street lined with traditional tearooms. This afternoon we will enjoy free time in Ventnor, one of Britain’s most famous Victorian health resorts with its unique microclimate.

Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy free time in Sandown. Sitting on the southern coast of the Isle of Wight, Sandown is acclaimed for its long stretches of sandy beaches and a traditional British seafront and pier.

Day 4 – This morning we travel to The Needles where you can admire The Needles Rocks and Trinity Lighthouse -

Travel insurance Door-to-Door Service Return ferry travel 5 nights half board Free time in Sandown Excursions to Shanklin, Godshill, Ventnor, Needles, Yarmouth & Cowes Admission to Mottistone Gardens & Osborne House Free time in Sandown

the islands most famous landmark. After a photo opportunity, we continue to Yarmouth, the historic port with some of the oldest architecture on the Isle of Wight. In the afternoon we visit the National Trust’s Mottistone Manor Garden, a magical place full of surprises, including HOTEL 3 shrub-filled banks, hidden pathways and Trouville Hotel Sandown colourful herbaceous borders.

Day 5 – We visit Queen Victoria’s Osborne House seaside palace where she often visited with her beloved Prince Albert and their nine children. Take an intimate glimpse into Queen Victoria’s family life as you tour the nursery and private rooms of the Royal couple. Marvel at the magnificence of the Royal Apartments including the drawing and dining rooms and step out onto Queen Victoria’s private beach (a pleasant 20-minute stroll from the palace). This afternoon we visit Cowes, where you can enjoy a stroll along the seafront.

Day 6 – We begin our journey home.

Situated on Sandown’s seafront, the Trouville Hotel is the ideal location for an Isle of Wight Break.

DATE

Tue 4 May 2021 Single Room Supplement

DAYS

PRICE FROM

6

£625 NIL

Travel Insurance INCLUDED

50 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 50

10/02/2020 16:16:23

A

2021 Holidays

Winter Wonderland on the Swiss Glacier Express LE H OT E

TA I N NTER

MENT

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en-route 4 nights half board Winter punch on arrival Evening entertainment at hotel Info-folder with a map, postcard & brochure Souvenir of Austria from the hotel Journey on the Glacier Express (*2nd class) Sleigh ride in the Hittisau Admission into the Rolls-Royce Museum Excursions to Kloster, Vadus & Davos

HOTEL 4 Hotel Weisses Kreuz Feldkirch, Austria Swiss Glacier Express © Janoka82

Day 1 – With comfort breaks along the way we travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 2 – We continue to our hotel.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit Klosters, Prince Charles’ favourite ski-resort, and Davos.

Later, we visit Vaduz, the capital city of the Principality of Liechtenstein, for free time.

Day 4 – Today we enjoy a sleigh in Schwarzenberg, which will take us through the romantic snowy hillside with a home-distilled schnapps served. Afterwards, we will visit Schwarzenberg and Dornbirn, where we will visit the world’s largest Rolls-Royce Museum.

Day 5 – Today we will board the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn and travel in the panoramic carriages of the original Glacier-Express*.

Day 6 – After breakfast we will be gifted a complimentary souvenir from the hotel before we retrace our footsteps back through Europe returning to our overnight hotel.

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps home, enjoying comfort breaks along the way.

Family-owned since 1852, the Weisses Kreuz in Feldkirch offers Alpine-style, tastefully furnished and spacious bedrooms with free Wi-Fi provided.

DATE

Sat 23 January 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£669

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£36

André Rieu in Antwerp É ANDR

RIE

CER U CON

T TICK

ET

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast 2 evening meals & 1 late lunch (due to André Rieu performance)

André Rieu concert ticket (Category 4) Visits to the Lindt Chocolate Warehouse & Aachen Free time in Valkenburg Upgrade to a Category 1 ticket for an additional £45 per person (please enquire at the time of booking)

HOTEL 3 Hotel Walram Valkenburg

Andre Rieu Concert © Steven Hendry

Day 1 – With leisurely stops en route we travel to Hotel Walram in Valkenburg.

Day 2 – After breakfast enjoy some free time to explore Valkenburg at your own pace, which is most famous for its labyrinth of caves which you can explore on foot or by slow train. Later the hotel will provide us with lunch before we travel to Antwerp for this evening’s extraordinary André Rieu concert.

Day 3 – This morning we enjoy a heavenly visit to the Lindt Chocolate Warehouse, where you will find gorgeous Lindt chocolates at a very reduced rate. After some free time, we spend the remainder of the day in Aachen.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home.

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Our comfortable hotel is situated on a quiet square on the banks of the small River De Geul just a few minutes away from the town centre.

DATE

Sat 9 January 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£389

Single Room Supplement

£59*

Travel Insurance

£30

*We have a limited number of single rooms available, after which the supplement will increase to £99. Please note, as concert dates are not yet confirmed, the departure date is subject to change.

51 10/02/2020 16:16:24

2021 Holidays

60’s Tribute Mini Cruise:

The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Supremes and The Temptations INCLUDES Return ferry sailing 2 nights cabin accommodation (bunk beds) 60’s themed live entertainment Coach travel throughout Free time in Bruges P&O Ferry cruises

A P&O mini cruise offers a comfortable and enjoyable journey, with bars, restaurants, a casino, shops and a fabulous Show Lounge there is plenty on board to keep you entertained!

Additional Supplements

Burns Montage

Inside cabin (low beds) Outside cabin (bunk beds) Outside cabin (low beds) Single inside cabin Single outside cabin Meal Supplement

£15 per person £15 per person £19 per person £49 per person £79 per person £69 per person

Day 1 – We travel to Hull where we meet our cruise ferry, and after settling into your cabin, (2 x buffet dinner / 2 x buffet breakfast) you are free to enjoy the various facilities and swingin’ entertainment on board tonight.

PRICE DATE DAYS Day 2 – Today we will visit Bruges for free time. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage FROM Site, the fairytale medieval city is sure to capture a special place in your heart. A walk around Fri 26 February 2021 3 £169 the city so steeped in history is like a stroll through a beautiful masterpiece. Maybe visit Rozenhoedkaai, one of the most photographed sites in the city, or head to Burg Square, Single Room Supplement £49 home to some of the most beautiful buildings in Bruges, which is also famous for its lace Travel Insurance £27 and chocolate. There are plenty of outlets for you to purchase souvenir gifts. Tonight, there will be another evening of entertainment.

Please note as sailing schedules are not confirmed yet, there may be a change of departure date. Passengers will be notified Day 3 – We retrace our footsteps home. of this change at least 9 months prior to departure.

Mini Cruise: Jersey Boys INCLUDES Return ferry sailing 2 nights cabin accommodation Entertainment on board Coach travel throughout Free time in Bruges

C

P&O Ferry cruises

A P&O mini cruise offers a comfortable and enjoyable journey, with bars, restaurants, a casino, shops and a fabulous Show Lounge there is plenty on board to keep you entertained!

Additional Supplements

Bruges, Central Market Square © Pel_1971

Day 1 – We will travel to Hull to meet our P&O cruise ferry. After settling into your cabin, you are free this evening to enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board.

Day 2 – Today we will visit Bruges for free time. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fairytale medieval city is sure to capture a special place in your heart. A walk around the city steeped in history is like a stroll through a beautiful masterpiece. Maybe visit Rozenhoedkaai, one of the most photographed sites in the city, or head to Burg Square, home to some of the most beautiful buildings in Bruges. The city is famous for its lace and chocolate, with plenty of outlets for your to purchase souvenir gifts.

Day 3 – We retrace our footsteps back home to the East Midlands

Inside cabin (low beds) Outside cabin (bunk beds) Outside cabin (low beds) Single inside cabin Single outside cabin Meal Supplement

£15 per person £15 per person £19 per person £49 per person £79 per person £69 per person

(2 x buffet dinner / 2 x buffet breakfast) DATE

Tue 16 March 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

3

£169

Single Room Supplement

£49

Travel Insurance

£27

Please note as sailing schedules are not confirmed yet, there may be a change of departure date. Passengers will be notified of this change at least 9 months prior to departure.

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10/02/2020 16:16:29

2021 Holidays

Valentines in Paris F

IME REE T

I N PA

RIS

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Paris Optional excursion to the Château de Fontainebleau & Versailles (additional £45 per person)

HOTEL 3 Hotel TBC Minimum 3* centrally located hotel.

Skyline of Paris with Eiffel Tower ©

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we travel to our hotel in Paris, with comfort breaks en route.

Day 2 – After breakfast enjoy a full day to explore Paris at your own pace today. The French capital is one of the most important and influential cities in the world, and its magical ambience has a way of romancing its visitors thanks to its world-famous monument-lined boulevards, museums, classical bistros and boutiques. Popular attractions include; the Eiffel Tower, the Musée du Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, Palais Garnier Opéra National de Paris and Luxembourg Gardens.

Day 3 – Enjoy another day to explore Paris, or alternatively, you could choose to join us for an optional excursion to the Château de Fontainebleau, one of the largest royal châteaux in France, and to Versailles, home of French royalty up until the French Revolution.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

DATE

Sat 13 February 2021

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£299

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£30

Disneyland Paris Featuring Paris Explorer CHIL

GO DREN

95 FOR £

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast Disney® Park Hopper ticket Free time in Paris

HOTEL 4 Hotel Novotel Paris Créteil le Lac Our hotel offers a restaurant, a bar and a swimming pool and is situated alongside Creteil Lake and it’s sport and recreation park.

Paris can be reached directly, via Metro line 8.

© Louise Smith

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we travel to our hotel in Paris.

Day 2 – Today there are countless amazing experiences to be had for guests of all ages, as we travel to Disneyland® Paris. Set off on thrilling adventures with attractions like Big Thunder Mountain; let the kids’ imaginations soar as they experience Dumbo the Flying Elephant; soak up the magic of seeing all your favourite characters in Disney Stars on Parade, and gaze in awe at the spectacular Disney Illuminations show as it rounds off a perfect day. Throughout Disneyland® Park and Walt Disney Studios® Park, there are magical experiences waiting around every corner.

Day 3 – After breakfast enjoy a full day to explore Paris at your own pace today.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

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DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 13 February 2021

4

£329

Child Price

4

£95

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£30

53 10/02/2020 16:16:30

2020 Customer Favourites

Isles of Scilly

INCLUDES

Isle of Scilly

Welcome to the Isles of Scilly, the outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt islands that are an idyllic place unlike anywhere else in Britain. With miles of untouched golden beaches, rugged uninhabited shorelines, shipwrecks and marine life, you can submerge yourself in a different kind of life.

Day 1 – After a leisurely lunch break in Stratford-upon-Avon we continue to our overnight accommodation - the 4* Copthorne in Plymouth.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we set sail to the Isles of Scilly. After settling in to your room, the rest of the day is yours to do as much or as little as you like. Our hotel is situated a short walk from the centre of Hugh Town, the central hub of the island and home to pretty churches and delightful cafés. You can enjoy the galleries, restaurants and local pubs as well as a wonderful museum and three lovely beaches. (Please note: Passengers will be accompanied by a Skills driver to and from the port there is then a short walk from the port to the hotel.

Maps on how to find the hotel will be offered.)

Day 3/5 – During the next three days, you are free to explore St Mary’s, the largest

island in the archipelago in your own time.

The coastline features large stretches of deserted white sandy beaches, dramatic rocky coves, stunning seascapes, amazing archaeological sites, beautiful walks and scenery along miles of coastal and country paths and natural trails. If you’re feeling adventurous perhaps catch a ferry to one of the neighbouring islands including: Tresco, St Martin’s and St Agnes and discover a little more of this incredible paradise.

Return coach transfers Return ferry crossings to St. Mary’s Port 1 night half board en route 1 night bed & breakfast en route 4 nights half board on the Isles of Scilly Visits to Stratford-upon-Avon & Worcester Free time on the Isles of Scilly

HOTEL 3 Tregarthen’s Hotel, St Mary’s

CENT

Overlooking St Mary’s harbour, our well appointed hotel features a high standard restaurant and bar. Rooms are en suite and include robes and tea and coffee making facilities. Many have seaviews.

Day 6 – This afternoon we return to Penzance where our coach will be waiting to take us back to Plymouth. Please note, due to the late arrival at the hotel dinner will not be included tonight.

Day 7 – Taking back wonderful memories, we retrace our footsteps home enjoying a leisurely lunch stop in Worcester.

DATE

Sun 23 August 2020

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£999

Single Room Supplement

£169

Travel Insurance

£26

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10/02/2020 16:16:39

2020 Customer Favourites

Ladies Day at Royal Ascot INCLUDES

Return coach travel 1/2 nights half board Visit to London (2-day break) Visit to St Albans (3-day break) Entrance to Ladies Day at Royal Ascot St Albans (includes ticket to the Windsor Enclosure. Upgrade to the Queen Anne Enclosure from £54 per person)

HOTEL 3 Holiday Inn Express Heathrow © Royal Ascot

Day 1 – After we arrive in London our friendly driver will drop you off in a central location, from where you can explore the city in your own time. Enjoy panoramic views from the London Eye, see the stars at Madame Tussauds, Shrek’s Adventure or hit Knightsbridge, where you’ll find the famous Harrods department store.

Day 2 – Dress to impress in your best frock, hat or suit today as we make our way to Ascot to revel in the wonderful atmosphere. After placing your bets, collecting your winnings and finishing your champagne we return to the hotel for tonight’s evening meal.

Day 3 (3-Day Tour) – Before returning home we visit St Albans for a little free time. Here you’ll discover history, culture, entertainment, food, drink, shopping, green parks and friendly people all within a short distance of each other.

Our modern hotel offers comfortable and stylish accommodation with tea and coffee making facilities.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Wed 17 June

2

£149

Wed 17 June

3

£219

DATE

Single Room Supplement

CALL

Travel Insurance

£17

The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo CENT

TED LO C A Y L L RA

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L

INCLUDES Return coach travel Bed & breakfast accommodation Ticket to the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo performance Free time in Edinburgh *Excursions to Perth & The Kelpies **Excursion to Dundee

HOTEL 3 Mercure Perth Hotel

© The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in Perth.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Edinburgh for free time. Later, as dusk falls, don your tartan and take your seats for the spectacular Royal Tattoo performance!

Day 3 (3-Day Tour) – Before returning home we visit The Kelpies for a quick photo stop.

Day 3 (4 & 5-Day Tour) – Enjoy free time in Perth, this city boasts elegant Georgian townhouses, cobbled streets, museums and outstanding monuments.

Day 4 (4-Day Tour) – Before returning home we visit the Kelpies for a quick photo stop.

Day 4 (5-Day Tour) – We visit Dundee, Scotland’s sunniest city and home to the V&A Dundee, the world’s only V&A museum outside of London.

Day 5 – Before returning home we visit the Kelpies for a quick photo stop.

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Our hotel is one of the most unique in the area, set in a 15th century watermill, you can still watch the water trickling through the original wheel from the garden, reception and Lounge Bar. DAYS

PRICE FROM

Fri 7 August 2020

3

£279

Thu 13 August 2020*

4

£359

Thu 20 August 2020**

5

£399

DATE

Single Room Supplement

CALL

Travel Insurance

£17

55 10/02/2020 16:16:42

2020 Customer Favourites

London Theatre Break Weekends

Our unrivalled Theatre Break packages mean you can experience a dazzling West End show in London for EVEN LESS! With our tailored coach packages, we take care of transport, theatre tickets and hotel. This means there’s no waiting around and your break can start as soon as you step on board one of our comfortable coaches!

Day 1 – We travel to London to enjoy the matinee performance of your chosen theatre show from Tina: The Tina Turner Musical and 9 to 5 The Musical, to family favourites like Mary Poppins and Disney’s The Lion King. After the show, there will be some free time to explore the multitude of dining options in the capital before we journey to our overnight hotel.

INCLUDES Return coach travel 1 night bed & breakfast Tickets to the matinée performance of your chosen show on Saturday Free time in London

Day 2 – After breakfast we return to London for some more free time before returning home. Why not stroll the South Bank and take in all the sights of the city?

NB: Sat 20th June and Sat 22 August 2020 will include evening performances. There will be free time for you to make your own arrangements in the city before the show on these dates, travelling straight to the hotel when the perfomance ends.

DATE

Sat 9 May

To register your interest call us now on: 08456 66 55 44* And be the FIRST to know when tickets go on sale!

SHOWS

NEW

Hairspray the Musical | Tina: The Tina Turner Musical

DAYS

FROM

2

£125

Sat 23 May

Lion King | Wicked | Les Miserablés

2

£125

Sat 6 June

Mary Poppins | Mamma Mia

2

£115

Sat 20 June

NEW

Pretty Woman* | Channing Tatum’s Magic Mike*

2

£179

Sat 11 July

NEW

Hairspray the Musical | NEW The Prince of Egypt

2

£110

Sat 25 July

NEW

Pretty Woman the Musical | Matilda

2

£110

Sat 8 August

Lion King | Tina: A Tina Turner Musical

2

£165

Sat 22 August

NEW

Channing Tatum’s Magic Mike* | Phantom of the Opera* (*7:30pm performance)

2

£185

Sat 5 September

NEW

The Prince of Egypt | Wicked

2

£110

Sat 19 September

Mamma Mia

2

£135

Sat 10 October

NEW

2

£145

Sat 24 October

Matilda

2

£110

Sat 7 November

NEW

2

£139

Sat 28 November

Wicked

2

£130

Pretty Woman the Musical | Les Miserablés Pretty Woman

(*7:30pm performance)

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10/02/2020 16:16:50

Puy du Fou: Best Living History Park in the World

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2020 Customer Favourites

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Puy du Fou, Le Signe du Triomphe © Stéphane Audran

Located in Western France, the second most visited theme park in the country has won several international awards including “World’s Best Theme Park”. Founded in 1977, the park offers a spectacular stroll through history with fantastic reenactments and unique attractions across the centuries. Relive the fury of the circus games, feel the rhythm of the knight’s horseback stunts in a chivalrous epic show, experience a moving swashbuckling adventure and watch the unforgettable aerial ballet of the birds.

Day 1 – We travel by coach and ferry to our overnight hotel in Chartres. Tonight you can enjoy the light festival taking place in the centre of Chartres.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Puy du Fou, a historical theme park where we have included a 2-day entrance ticket. Located in the grounds of a ruined castle discover a splendid natural park with over 25 incredible shows (by day and by night).

There are four authentic period villages: La Cité Médiéavle, Le Village Xviiiéme, Le Bourg 1900 and Le Fort de L’an Mil to explore. Choose from over 20 food outlets and themed restaurants with entertainment.

This evening, we will continue to our hotel.

Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast we return to Puy du Foy for another funpacked day. This afternoon we will return to our hotel for the chance to freshen up before returning for the sensational Cinéscénie, the world’s biggest night-time show (which starts at approximately 10:30pm). The Puy du Fou Cinéscénie is an unmissable show, world-renowned for its 3D video projections, sumptuous décors, special effects, optical illusions and stunning light performances.

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast on Brittany Ferries 2 nights bed & breakfast at a Ibis in Cholet (or nearby area)

2 day-ticket for Puy du Fou including 2 evening shows Excursion to Nantes

HOTEL 3 Ibis Cholet France Our stylish hotel offers a lift and complimentary Wi-Fi. The air-conditioned rooms feature a flat-screen TV, and the private bathrooms are complete with a shower and free toiletries. A buffet breakfast composed of sweet and savoury dishes such as eggs, fruit salad, yogurts and juices is served every day.

Day 4 – We visit Nantes, the historical capital of Brittany for free time.

Afterwards, we return to Chartres where you can enjoy the evening light show.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DATE

Wed 8 July 2020

CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Festive Not Festive15.indd 57

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£479

Single Room Supplement

£139

Travel Insurance

£30

57 10/02/2020 16:17:01

Andrea Bocelli in Tuscany

2020 Customer Favourites

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San Gimignano, Tuscany © Bluejayphoto

The world’s most popular living tenor and a best-selling crossover artist – Andrea Bocelli is one of the finest artists of our generation. Now, you can see him LIVE as the star will once again play a very special performance in his home of Lajatico, Tuscany. The venue is Teatro del Silenzio, a beautiful open-air amphitheater set against the Tuscan hills, which was built especially for his concerts. Selling over 80-million albums worldwide and boasting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Bocelli’s concert promises to be the most ambitious yet, and the first to be immortalized by television cameras!

INCLUDES

Day 1 – Travelling across picturesque Europe, we will arrive at our overnight hotel.

*Optional visit to Florence (£20 per person, minimum

Day 2 – After breakfast we continue to Hotel Biondi in Montecatini Terme.

Day 3 – This morning we visit Siena, considered the loveliest medieval city in Europe. A visit here is like stepping back into the middle ages as you marvel at the architecture, fabulous art treasures and tradition of this wonderful city. After some free time, we travel to nearby San Gimignano, one of the most iconic and recognizable destinations in Tuscany.

Day 4 – After a leisurely day to do as much or as little as you like, there will be a late lunch served at the hotel before the sensational Andrea Bocelli concert later this evening. The show promises to be a spectacular multi-sensory experience that will reinvent opera by offering the greatest composers, the most beloved arias and the most popular classics, all presented within an innovative format.

Day 5 – Enjoy exploring Montecatini Terme at your own pace today, most famous for its

thermal waters. Wander along Viale Verdi (the main street) which is lined with shops, cafés and restaurants until you reach Piazza Popolo its most famous historic spa.

Day 6 – Today you can join us for an optional excursion to Florence – one of Europe’s most culturally and historically significant cities. Florence is a vibrant city nestled among the idyllic green hills of Tuscany. Thanks to its relatively small size it retains a sense of intimacy romance, while still offering a remarkable selection of museums, galleries and restaurants which continue to impress even the most regular visitor*.

Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 5 nights half board Excursions to Siena & San Gimignano Ticket to the Andrea Bocelli concert (Category 6) Ticket upgrades available upon request

numbers required – please advise at the time of booking)

HOTEL 4

Hotel Biondi Montecatini Terme Featuring a garden with terrace, an indoor pool and a Tuscan restaurant, our hotel is located in the thermal town of Montecatini Terme. It offers classic-style rooms and free Wi-Fi in public areas.

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 – We return home.

Please note: If the weather is bad, the concert will take place the next day which means the itinerary will be changed to accommodate this.

To reach Teatro del Silenzio passengers will need to walk approx. 800 metres. The concert will start at approx. 20:30 and will finish at midnight.

DATE

Tue 21 July 2020

DAYS

PRICE FROM

8

£739

Single Room Supplement

£139

Travel Insurance

£40

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10/02/2020 16:17:06

Tall Ships of Dunkirk CIT

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2020 Customer Favourites INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Dunkirk to enjoy the Tall Ships event

HOTEL 3 Hôtel Ibis Dunkerque Centre Ideally situated for discovering the town our hotel is located close to the Marina, Malo-les-Bains beach, the port museum and the Palais des Congrés. The guestrooms come with parquet floors and en suite facilities.

Tall ship

Day 1 – Departing early we travel to our hotel in Dunkirk with comfort breaks along the way.

Day 2/3 – Over the next two days you can enjoy free time in Dunkirk and the local events around the town. Likely highlights to look out for are the crew parade, which sees hundreds of crew members take to the streets in celebration and the parade of sail, which will see the tall ships wave goodbye to the city of Dunkirk in quite spectacular fashion.

DATE

Day 4 – After an enjoyable break we retrace our footsteps across Europe and return home.

Single Room Supplement

£89

Travel Insurance

£30

Fri 7 August 2020

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£239

Ostend at Anchor Featuring Bruges & Ypres U UNIQ

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INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 4 nights bed & breakfast Excursions to Bruges, Ypres & Ghent Free time in Ostend during Ostend at Anchor

HOTEL 3 Hotel Ter Streep Ostend Located in the heart of Ostend, Ter Streep offers comfortable bedrooms with free Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast.

© Ostend at Anchor

Day 1 – We travel to the Hotel Ter Streep, located in central Ostend.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Bruges, a city that will capture your heart. Perhaps head to Burg, one of the most photographed squares in Europe.

Day 3 – Ostend at Anchor is a festival with plenty of things to see do and discover, and today you can enjoy it all in your own time. Bringing around 150 authentic ships together, Ostend at Anchor is a celebration of its tremendous maritime history.

Day 4 – After breakfast, enjoy free time to explore Ghent, then later this afternoon we will travel to the Flanders town of Ypres to witness The Last Post ceremony – which takes place every night at 8:00pm under the Menin Gate.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

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DATE

Wed 27 May

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£339

Single Room Supplement

£109

Travel Insurance

£30

59 10/02/2020 16:17:06

2020 Customer Favourites

SAIL Amsterdam

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Tall Ship © Elijah-Lovkoff

INCLUDES SAIL Amsterdam is one of the biggest nautical events in the world, cruising into the city just once every five years. The event guarantees an impressive and Return Channel crossing incomparable fleet of tall ships, sailing heritage craft, modern ships, naval ships and Coach travel throughout replicas along the IJ Bay before docking near the city centre.

3 nights bed & breakfast Visits to Amsterdam SAIL Amsterdam’s closing ceremony.

Day 1 – After an early start, we travel to *Optional visit to Hoorn & Volendam Throughout the event the city centre the Hotel NH Bussum Jan Tabak. (additional £30 per person) area will be split in to zones or ‘Oceans’, HOTEL 4 Day 2 – Join us for an optional excursion to each hosting themed events, so even if you aren’t out on the water, there’s lots the beautiful city of Hoorn to enjoy a boat Hotel NH Bussum Jan Tabak Brussum to do including concerts by the Royal trip and free time exploring the historic centre, before heading to Volendam, Concertgebouw Orchestra and a host of NH Jan Tabak is a luxurious hotel in Bussum. The well-kept Holland’s best-known fishing village, where pop acts. accommodations have a charming ambiance. Each has free Wiwe will spend the remainder of the day.* Fi, coffee and tea making facilities and a bathroom with a bath.

Alternatively, you can enjoy free time in Day 4 – We retrace our steps back home.

Amsterdam, one of the most exciting cities in Europe.

Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast we travel to Amsterdam to experience

DATE

Thu 13 August 2020 Single Room Supplement Travel Insurance

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£269 £99 £

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10/02/2020 16:17:14

2020 Customer Favourites

Ostend, Bruges & Ypres CENT

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INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 4 nights bed & breakfast Excursions to Bruges & Ypres for the Last Post Ceremony Free time in Ostend *Optional excursion to Brussels (£20 per person)

HOTEL 3 Hotel Ter Streep Ostend Located in the heart of Ostend, Ter Streep offers comfortable bedrooms with free Wi-Fi and a buffet breakfast.

Grote Markt in Bruges, Belgium © JByard

Day 1 – We travel to the Hotel Ter Streep, located in central Ostend.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Bruges, the ‘Venice of the North’ famous for chocolate and lace. Later, we travel to the Ypres, fought over by Britain and Germany throughout the Great War. During our visit we will witness The Last Post ceremony – which takes place every night under the Menin Gate.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Ostend, the cosmopolitan ‘City by the Sea’.

Day 4 – After breakfast you can join us on our optional excursion to Brussels. Visit the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful squares in the world, or climb the famous Atomium, the most iconic landmark in the city*.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DATE

DAYS

PRICE FROM

5

£329

Wed 17 June Single Room Supplement

£99

Travel Insurance

£30

Ostend, Bruges & Ghent T VA G R EA

OR M LU E F

ONEY

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Bruges, Ostend & Ghent

HOTEL 3 Hotel Alfa Inn Belgium The family‐run Alfa Inn in Blankenberge offers modern accommodation and is a 5‐minute walk to the local beach.

Beautiful canal and traditional houses in the old town of Bruges © Olena_Znak

Day 1 – We travel to the Hotel Alfa Inn, situted in Blankenberge.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Bruges, the ‘Venice of the North’ famous for chocolate and lace.

Day 3 – This morning we take you to Ostend, the cosmopolitan ‘City by the Sea’. This thriving seaside and fishing port is renowned for its mussels, a delicacy in Belgium and its other sea specialties, including Ostend Sole (Sole filled with shrimps and mussels). After some free time, we visit Ghent. The best way to discover the city’s turbulent past is with a visit to Gravensteen, the Castle of the Counts, (admission not included). Originally built in the Middle Ages, it is the only remaining medieval castle with a moat in Flanders.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home.

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DATE

Mon 21 September

DAYS

PRICE FROM

4

£239

Single Room Supplement

£29

Travel Insurance

£30

61 10/02/2020 16:17:16

Normandy’s Coastline: Le Havre, Honfleur & Etretat

2020 Customer Favourites

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INCLUDES Return ferry sailings Coach travel throughout 4 nights bed & breakfast Excursions to Etretat, Fecamp, Honfleur & Deauville Free time in Le Harve

HOTEL 4 Hotel Mercure Le Havre Centre Bassin du Commerce Our hotel is in the historic town of Le Havre opposite the Bassin du Commerce and within walking distance to the Natural History Museum and Le Havre Cathedral. It offers air-conditioned guestrooms with LCD satellite TV and Wi-Fi.

Etretat, Normandy © Janoka82

Day 1 – We set sail to France and continue to our hotel in Le Havre.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time to explore Le Havre today, there’s a lively centre with good shopping and plenty of bars and restaurants. Why not visit the Oscar-Niemeyer Cultural Centre recognisable as two buildings in the form of a volcano? Or maybe you can enjoy the day by the beach.

Day 3 – We visit Étretat, renowned for the towering white chalk cliffs carved by wind and water, which tower high over the Atlantic Ocean. After some free time, we travel to Fécamp a pretty seaside port on the Alabaster Coast.

Day 4 – We visit Honfleur, home to one of the prettiest harbours in France the Vieux Bassin (old dock) before heading to Deauville for the remainder of the day.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Wed 29 July

5

£329

Sat 8 August

5

£329

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£149

Travel Insurance

£30

Chartres Light Festival Featuring Rouen & Monet’s Garden UNI

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INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 3/4 nights bed & breakfast Admission into Monet’s Garden Free time in Chartres Visits to Rouen Visit to Évreux (5-day tour only) Optional visit to Versailles Palace (£30 per person)

HOTEL 3 Ibis Chartres Centre Cathedrale Located a short walk from the cathedral, our hotel offers comfortable bedrooms with an Italian restaurant and bar.

Chartres Light Festival

Day 1 – We travel to our centrally located hotel. During this time the Chartres light show “Chartres en Lumieres” will be underway, one of the most popular events in the city!

Day 2 – We travel to Giverny, this charming village captured the heart of Claude Monet, the founding father of the French Impressionist style. While here, we have included admission into Monet’s Gardens – where Monet lived from 1883 to 1926. This afternoon we visit Évreux (5-day tour only) or we visit Rouen for free time (4-day tour only).

Day 3 – Join us for an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles, one of the most majestic palaces on earth!* Day 4 (5-day tour only) – We visit Rouen for free time.

FINAL DAY – We retrace our footsteps back home.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Wed 13 May

5

£299

Thu 9 July 2020

5

£319

Thu 20 August 2020

4

£269

DATE

Single Room Supplement

CALL

Travel Insurance

£30

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10/02/2020 16:17:25

Rhine Valley & The Moselle 1

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2020 Customer Favourites INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 4 nights half board Welcome drink 2 nights entertainment (including fancy dress & dancing) 1 hour free bar on 3 nights Visits to Cochem, Boppard, Koblenz & Braubach *Optional Rhine Cruise from Kamp-Bornhofen to Rudesheim (£40 per person)

HOTEL 2 The Hotel Wagner Kamp-Bornhofen

Rhine river © Gatsi

Day 1 – We travel to The Hotel Wagner in Kamp-Bornhofen.

Day 2 – This morning you can choose to join us for an optional return cruise to Rudesheim, a picturesque winemaking town most famous for its production of Asbach Brandy.* Alternatively, enjoy free time to explore Kamp-Bornhofen.

Day 3 – Enjoy visits to Cochem a town of half-timbered houses and Boppard, the biggest wine-growing centre in the Middle Rhine.

Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Koblenz, where the Old Town area boasts numerous well-preserved historic attractions including the Neoclassical Koblenz Schloss. After free time, we travel to the picturesque old town of Braubach. With its wonderfully crooked old streets and alleyways lined with medieval half-timbered buildings.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

Our well-established hotel in Kamp-Bornhofen is a 3-minute walk from the River Rhine and features a spa, traditional restaurant with garden terrace and complimentary Wi-Fi. DAYS

PRICE FROM

Mon 22 June 2020

5

£275

Sat 18 July 2020

5

£279

Mon 12 October 2020

5

£279

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£39

Travel Insurance

£30

Rhine in Flames UNIQ

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INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 6 nights half board Welcome drink 2 nights entertainment (including fancy dress & dancing) 1 hour free bar on 3 nights Visit to Koblenz for the Rhine in Flames event Visit to Oberwesel, Cochem, Boppard, Braubach, Rudesheim, Worms & Mannheim *Optional Rhine Cruise from Kamp-Bornhofen to Rudesheim (£40 per person)

HOTEL 2

The Hotel Wagner Kamp-Bornhofen

Rhine in Flames © EKH-Pictures

Day 1 – We travel to The Hotel Wagner, in Kamp-Bornhofen.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Oberwesel, home to Schönburg, one of the biggest castles along the Rhine. Afterwards, we travel to the picturesque old town of Braubach.

Day 3 – This morning you can choose to join us for an optional return cruise to Rudesheim, a picturesque winemaking town most famous for its production of Asbach Brandy.* Tonight, we travel to Kobelz to witness the electrifying Rhine in Flames.

Day 4 – Today we enjoy excursions to Cochem a town of half-timbered houses and Boppard.

Day 5 – This morning we visit Worms, one of Germany’s oldest cities, and Mannheim.

Day 6 – After breakfast we visit Koblenz, famous as the crossing point of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers Later we will return to our hotel for free time.

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

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DATE

Thu 6 August 2020

DAYS

PRICE FROM

7

£409

Single Room Supplement

£59

Travel Insurance

£36

63 10/02/2020 16:17:27

Costa Brava, Barcelona & Girona

2020 Customer Favourites

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Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain © MasterLu

With mountainous backdrops and staggering hidden coves, Costa Brava is one of the prettiest regions in Spain. On our enchanting stay discover Calella’s miles of golden beaches, as well as the traditional and charming resorts of Girona and Besalu that wrap around old towns of cobbled lanes, plazas and delightful tapas bars.

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

INCLUDES Return Channel crossing Coach travel throughout 2 nights bed & breakfast en route 6 nights half board in Calella Farewell appetizer includes tapas and a glass of Sangria on day 7 Excursions to Barcelona, Girona & Besalu *Optional excursion to Monsterrat £20 per person

Day 2 – Relax on board our comfortable coach as we travel to Calella.

free time, we travel to Besalu for some more free time. This unique town is a magnificent example of a medieval Spanish town.

Day 3 – Explore Calella in your own time today. The town is known as the holiday capital of the Costa del Maresme, with its lively outdoor terraces, restaurants and glorious beaches.

Day 6 – Enjoy some free time in Calella and perhaps explore the old part of town, where a maze of cobbled streets surrounds the ancient church of Santa Maria.

Day 4 – No holiday to Catalonia would be complete without a visit to beautiful Barcelona, the cosmopolitan seaside city, with a history among the oldest in Europe.

Visit the Park Guell, one of Gaudi’s major works for spectacular views over the city or head to the Sagrada Familia – now the emblem of Barcelona – this incredible unfinished cathedral was the work of architect Antoni Gaudi.

Day 7 – Today you can join us for an rooms feature private balconies and free Wi-Fi. optional excursion to Montserrat, a rocky mountain range and Santa Maria de Montserrat, a Benedictine monastery, that sits at the top of the mountain.

Inside this fascinating monastery is a statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, one of the few black Madonnas in Europe and is Catalonia’s most important religious retreat.* For those of you who don’t wish to join us, you can enjoy a day at leisure.

Please note: Price does not include any of the Monserrat Funiculars.

Day 5 – Our first visit today is to Girona, renowned for its medieval architecture, walled Old Quarter and the Roman remains of the Forca Vella Fortress.

Walk along the ancient fortress walls for breathtaking views, discover the splendour of the wonderfully preserved Jewish Quarter or visit its spectacular Placa de la Catedral, used during the filming of Game of Thrones. After some

(minimum numbers are required)

HOTEL 4 Hotel Volga, Calella Our hotel is located just a short walk from the beach, the relaxed

Day 8 – We bid a fond farewell to our hosts and return to our overnight hotel.

Day 9 – We continue our journey to the East Midlands.

DAYS

PRICE FROM

Sat 6 June

9

£699

Wed 16 September

9

£669

DATE

Single Room Supplement

£229

Travel Insurance

£40

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10/02/2020 16:17:35

1. Who are we? This Trading Charter/Booking Conditions are the standard trading conditions of Skills Motor Coaches Ltd (t/a Skills Holidays) and Laver Holidays Ltd as appropriate. Our full details and registered address are given at the end of these terms.

2. Why should I read these pages? Because it is very important.

2.1 Our Trading Charter forms a key part of our agreement with you and forms the basis of a legally binding contract between you as the lead name making the booking, anyone else in your party and us.

2.2 When you make this booking as the lead name you undertake that you have the authority to accept, and do accept, on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. By paying the monies required and entering into a financial agreement at time of booking , you agree to our terms and conditions.

2.3 This contract is made subject to the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of England and Wales.

2.4 These contract terms and any financial guarantees will not apply to any holiday involving any type of flight. Instead, you will be supplied with the full booking conditions of the ATOL holder arranging your holiday. Your booking agent will have a copy or alternatively you can request one prior to booking your holiday from us.

2.5 If you were unaware of this trading charter before you made your booking and you are not happy to proceed with the booking now that you have seen it, within 7 days of receiving this trading charter you will need to give us written notice of your intention not to proceed with the booking and return any documentation provided by us or the travel agent with whom you booked. Your booking will then be cancelled and your monies will be returned in full, provided you have not commenced your travel.

3. How and when do you make a contract with us?

3.1 We welcome you making contact with us in a number of ways. You can write to us, phone us, use a nominated travel agent, e-mail or visit our website.

3.2 Whichever way you contact us the contract is only made when: 3.2.1 your booking is entered on to our reservation system; and 3.2.2 We issue a booking confirmation in writing via letter or email.

3.3 We will send you, or your agent (if booked via an agent), the booking confirmation within 7 working days of receipt or such earlier time as may be agreed in writing.

3.4 Please check this confirmation very carefully to ensure all the information is correct and tell us, or your agent, within 14 days of issue of any errors.

3.5 In accordance with Regulations 27 and 28 of the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 relating to the supply of leisure activities for a specific date or period of performance, our trips are exempt from the online cancellation obligations set out in the Regulations and the Consumer Rights Act 2015. As such our own terms and conditions apply as stated.

4. Definitions – types of travel contract 4.1 “Day Trips” means any trip or tour where at the time of booking we intend that the duration of the tour or trip should 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.

5. How is your money protected?

5.1. Packages: The Code of Conduct of the Bonded Coach Holidays Group (“BCHG”): We subscribe to the Code of Conduct of the Bonded Coach Holidays Group (“BCHG”) of the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (“CPT”). BCHG requires a bond to be taken out to provide protection for money received for your Package in the unlikely event that a Member cannot, for financial reasons, carry out their obligations to their passengers.

5.2 Packages: BCHG Consumer Guarantee - The BCHG guarantees to bona fide customers that in the event of failure of a bona fide Member, it will: • wherever possible, arrange for the Package to be completed; • where failure occurs after a Package has begun, arrange for customers to be returned by an appropriate means of transport to their UK area of departure; • If the Package cannot be completed as booked, to reimburse booking payments received by us, subject to taking into account and withholding an appropriate amount if any part of the Package has already been provided (including any substituted service).

5.3 Day Trips: Please note - the Code of Conduct and the Consumer Guarantee of the BCHG only applies to Packages and does not apply to Day Trips.

5.4 Credit card payments: However in the case of both Packages and Day Trips where you have booked any services using a credit card it is likely that you would have recourse against the credit card provided in the event services are not supplied in whole or in part.

6. When do I need to pay for my holiday and how much?

6.1 Deposits for Packages: At the time of booking for a Package you will need to pay a deposit for each person named on the booking.

6.2 Full payment due for Day Trips: At the time of booking you will need to pay the full amount of the day trip.

6.3 Alterations of price: We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays that we advertise. At the time of booking you will be told the current price of the holiday.

6.4 Your commitment: You can book by paying a deposit for each person named on the booking.

6.5 Our commitment: We are not committed to the booking until such time as we provide you with our confirmation of booking in the form of a booking confirmation in writing via letter or e-mail.

6.6 Packages - Balance Due: • For Packages our commitment is always conditional upon any balance being paid 6 calendar weeks/42 calendar days prior to your UK coach holiday scheduled departure unless otherwise stated on your confirmation of booking (“the balance due date”). All other European coach holiday and tours inc Ireland are payable 8 calendar weeks/ 56 calendar days prior to the scheduled departure.

• If you book within our balance due period you will need to pay the total Package cost at the time of your booking.

• Where you use an agent, they may require you to pay them earlier than this date and will advise you separately of their balance due date.

• If you do not pay the outstanding balance for your Package on or before the date when it is due we may cancel your booking and you will be required to pay the cancellation charges detailed below.

• The date of cancellation will normally be the date when your confirmation in writing that you intend to cancel is received by us or 15 days after the balance due date, whichever comes first.

A. Deposits payable at booking (unless otherwise stated on confirmation of booking) Travel Duration Day Trips Packages of 2 days or less Packages of 3-8 days Packages of 9 days or more

Deposit Not applicable - full price payable at time of booking £30 per person £50 per person £70 per person

B. Balance Due: For Day Trips the full price is payable at the time of booking. For Packages the balance is due in full 6 calendar weeks/42 calendar days prior to your scheduled departure unless otherwise stated on your confirmation of booking.

C. Optional Items Where optional items form part of a holiday (such as excursion, theatre or other attraction tickets) and are purchased by us payment for such optional items is payable in the case of Day Trips at the time of booking and in the case of Packages a higher deposit may be payable. This will be advised at the time of booking. The costs of optional items including entrance/attraction tickets will not normally be refundable or transferable upon cancellation by you. Refunds may be given in specific circumstances but these are at the discretion and may depend on the company receiving a refund from the supplier. In the event of any cancellation by the company, a full refund will be given.

7. If I use an agent who does my money belong to? Your agent will hold your deposit on your behalf until we issue a booking confirmation. The agent then holds this money on our behalf. The agent holds the balance you pay on our behalf until the date the balance is due. The agent will then forward this to us.

8. Can we change the price of your holiday after we have issued the Booking confirmation?

8.1 Yes we can. However this is done only in very limited circumstances and not within 30 days of your departure.

8.2 The price of your holiday can be varied due to changes in:• Transportation costs such as fuel and/or fuel tax, ferry operator fares and tolls, embarkation or disembarkation fees at terminals; • Exchange rates applied to the particular holiday booked; or • Dues and taxes including changes in VAT or any other Government imposed charges.

8.3 In the case of any variation described above, an amount equivalent to 2% of the price of your holiday, which excludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges, will be absorbed by us.

8.4 If this means that you would have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your holiday before increase, you have a choice between 2 options:Option A: You may cancel the holiday and receive a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. We will consider an appropriate refund of insurance premiums paid to us if you can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your revised invoice.

Option B: Alternatively, you can accept an offer of an alternative comparable holiday of equivalent or superior quality, if available, or an alternative holiday of lower quality, if available. You may then transfer payment made in respect of the original holiday to the alternative holiday. If the cost of the alternative holiday is less than the original holiday, the difference in price will be refunded.

8.5 We calculate the price of your holidays using the exchange rates quoted by the Bank of England on 24th May 2016 using the following currencies: Pound Sterling for UK and Channel Island arrangements and Euro for other arrangements.

8.6 Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes in currency exchange rates have no impact on the price of your Package due to contractual and other protections in place.

8.7 If any additional sum has been paid for your holiday under Clause 8.2 above and there is subsequently, and more than 30 days prior to your scheduled departure date, a reduction in the base costs of your holiday as a consequence of matters set out in Clause 8.2, we will refund to you that portion of the additional sum paid to reflect the reduction in base costs.

8.8 We reserve the right to increase or decrease prices of unsold holidays and insurance at any time after brochure publication as our costs change and exchange rates fluctuate, or to correct errors. Current prices of our holidays and travel insurance cover are shown on our website and are also available by telephone. Please ensure you have checked the price of any holiday and travel insurance cover you are interested in before making your booking.

8.9 From time to time, we may reduce the rate of a holiday you already booked on as part of an ad hoc promotion or discount. In this situation you will not be entitled to the difference in the amount of money originally paid for the tour and promotional discount rate.

9. Can I change my holiday arrangements?

9.1 After we have issued our booking confirmation we will do our best to accommodate any changes you may want to make but we cannot guarantee to do so.

9.2 Any proposed changes must be notified to us in writing or at the office at which you made your booking. Changes can only be made by the lead booker / the person who signed the booking confirmation form.

9.3 If we are able to make the changes an amendment fee will be payable of £10 per booking for Day Trips and £20 per booking of each date for all other holidays plus any additional charge for 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).

9.5 Any significant alteration by you after the balance due date will be treated as a cancellation of the original booking and will be subject to the cancellation charges detailed below. A significant alteration would include a change of departure date, holiday or hotel, or number of people travelling. Please note that it is not possible to transfer any holidays or day trips to the following calendar year.

10. Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

10.1 You can transfer your booking to someone else (“the transferee”) provided you give us reasonable notice.

10.2 The transferee must be able to satisfy all the conditions for the holiday and a change cannot normally be made later than 7 days prior to departure.

10.3 We will make an administration charge of £10 per person for Day Trips and £20 per person for every transfer we make plus any reasonable additional costs caused by the transfer.

10.4 You as transferor of the booking must also return any tickets or vouchers that you have received.

10.5 You and the transferee will each remain responsible for ensuring that the holiday is paid for by the balance due date.

10.6 Please note: Travel insurance is not transferable and optional items specifically purchased by us for you may not be transferable.

11. How can I cancel my holiday?

11.1 You, or any member of your party, may cancel a booking at any time provided that the cancellation is made by the lead name on the booking and is communicated to us in writing or e-mail via the Head office. It is the responsibility of the lead passenger to ensure cancellations letters are received and no cancellation will be binding until such a time it is formally acknowledged by us in writing 11.2 You will have to pay cancellation charges set out in the scale below to cover our estimated loss resulting from the cancellation. If you are insured against cancellation you may be able to recover the charges from your insurers.

11.3 Your cancellation will take effect from the date we receive your written confirmation of your cancellation and it has been acknowledged. We will not be responsible for the loss of any cancellation letter or e-mail which is beyond our control. You must also return any tickets or vouchers that you have received along with your cancellation correspondence.

11.4 Please note: A reduction in room occupancy may increase the charges for the remaining passengers on the booking by the application of supplements for low occupancy of rooms.

12. Scale of Cancellation Charges for holidays Period before departure within which written notification is received

Amount of cancellation charge shown as %

12.1 Scale of cancellation charges for Day trips

Period before departure within which written notification is received Amount of cancellation charge shown as %

41 days or more Loss of deposit 40-36 days 40% 35-22 days 60% 21-14 days 85% 13 days or less 100%

More than 7 days 7 days or less

50% 100%

13. What happens if we change your holiday?

13.1 The arrangements for your holiday will usually have been made many months in advance. Sometimes changes are unavoidable and we reserve the right to make them. Most of these changes are likely to be minor and we will do our best to keep you informed.

13.2 If, after booking and before departure, we make a significant change to your holiday you will have the option of withdrawing from the holiday without penalty or alternatively you may transfer to another holiday without paying an administration fee. In either case we will pay you compensation according to the scale set out below.

13.3 A significant change includes (but is not limited to) a change in departure time or return time of more than 12 hours, a change of departure point, location of resort or quality of hotel, (excluding single overnight hotels on Packages where the quality of the hotel is comparable).

13.4 If you withdraw from the holiday because we have made a significant change or if we have to cancel your holiday for any reason other than non-payment on the balance due date by you, we will offer you the choice of either:• A comparable replacement holiday if available; or • A replacement holiday of lower quality together with a refund of the price difference; or • A full refund of the money you have paid.

13.5 When we have notified you of the changes and options available, you must tell us your decision as soon as possible and within any timescale we may need to set bearing in mind the need to safeguard the holiday arrangements of other customers.

13.6 If we have to cancel your holiday at any time, we are 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 Amount per person Period before departure in which significant Amount per person change is notified to you or your agent change is notified to you or your agent

More than 56 days NIL 0 - 7 days £25 8 - 14 days £20 29 - 56 days £10 15 - 28 days £15 14.2 Payment of compensation according to the scale set out above will not affect your statutory rights.

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, adverse weather conditions and Force Majeure 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.

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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.

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, 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. We will be unable to investigate any complaint received more than 28 days after your return from your holiday.

16.3 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. Letters to be received within 28 days of your trip or holiday return.

16.4 Questionnaires are provided at the end of tours to gauge general customer satisfaction however any comments made on the from will not be regarded as a formal complaint.

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. If medication is required we advise you to take reasonable and responsible steps to ensure your medication is kept closely at all times; this includes storing it in hand luggage as opposed to underneath lockers on the coach.

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, including E-cigarettes.

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 25.1 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 distract our driver. We would request that mobile phone devices only be used on the coach in the case of emergency.

25.2 You must not consume alcohol on the coach.

25.3 We accept no responsibility if you leave or lose your luggage or your luggage gets lost or damaged in transit for any reason 25.4 If the air conditioning or Washroom on the allocated vehicle is not operational, then no refund will be made.

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 our holidays.

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 you’re 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 to 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 not 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.

33. 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.

33.4 We reserve the right to change single supplement charges at any time in response to demand or hotel rates. You will be advised at the time of booking.

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. If you request the return of lost property via the post, you will be expected to cover the cost of postage and packaging prior to the items being returned.

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.

37. Publication date and details This brochure was printed in the United Kingdom in September 2019 on behalf of Laver Holidays Ltd, Registered in England No. 02508494 whose registered office is c/o Skills Motor Coaches Limited, Belgrave Business Park, Belgrave Road, Bulwell, Nottingham NG6 8LY.

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Travel Insurance

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. o assist you with this we have arranged competitive travel insurance from Travel & General Insurance Services Limited to specifically meet your needs on your holiday.

STANDARD SCHEDULE OF COVER UK

PER PERSON

EUROPE

PER PERSON

Up to 3 days

£17.00

Up to 3 days

£27.00

Up to 5 days

£23.00

Up to 5 days

£30.00

Up to 7 days

£26.00

Up to 7 days

£36.00

Up to 10 days

£34.00

Up to 10 days

£40.00

Up to 14 days

£40.00

Up to 14 days

£45.00

EUROPE CONTINUED

PER PERSON

Up to 18 days

£50.00

The schedule of cover sets out a summary of the cover provided by this 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

SECTION OF COVER

MAXIMUM SUMS INSURED AND/OR BENEFITS PER PERSON

MAXIMUM EXCESS PER PERSON

Cancellation

£2,000

• NIL trips up to 3‐days • £15 Loss of Deposit trips 4‐days plus • £50 Cancellation trips 4‐days plus

Delayed Departure (Northern Ireland, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man, Channel Islands & Europe)

• £60 (£20 after first 12‐hours and £10 for each subsequent 12‐hours) Delayed Travel • £2,000 Holiday Abandonment

• NIL Delayed Travel • NIL Holiday Abandonment trips up to 3‐days • £50 Holiday Abandonment trips 4‐days plus

Missed Departure

• £100 (England, Scotland & Wales) • £300 (Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, Channel Islands & Europe)

NIL

Personal Accident

£15,000 (subject to age)

NIL

Medical & Other Expenses (including Curtailment)

£2,000,000 Medical & Other Expenses in all, sub‐limited to: • £1,500 Additional Accommodation, Repatriation & Travel Expenses (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland & Isles of Scilly) • £1,000 Local Funeral Expenses (Isle of Man, Channel Islands & Europe) • £2,000 Curtailment

• £30 Medical & Other Expenses • Nil Curtailment trips up to 3‐days • £50 Curtailment trips 4‐days plus

Hospital Benefit

• £10 per day up to £100 (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland & Isles of Scilly) • £15 per day up to £450 (Isle of Man, Channel Islands & Europe)

NIL

Personal Property (including Personal Money)

£1,500 Personal Property in all, sub‐limited to: • £200 Single Article Limit • £200 in all Valuables • £200 (subject to age) Personal Money • £100 (after 12‐hours) Delayed Baggage

• NIL Delayed Baggage • £30 Baggage & Personal Money

Loss of Passport and / or Visa Expenses

£200

NIL

Personal Liability

£2,000,000

NIL

Legal Expenses

£25,000

NIL

HEALTH CONDITIONS You must be able to comply with the following conditions to have the full protection of your policy. If you do not comply we may refuse to deal with any relevant claim or reduce the amount of any relevant claim payment.

If you are travelling within the United Kingdom You are not required to declare your medical conditions. However, to be covered for any medical conditions you have or have had, you must be able to answer NO to questions 1 to 4 and YES to questions 5 and 6 a) and b) below: 1. Are you aware of any reason why the trip could be cancelled or cut short (such as the health of a close relative).

2. Are you travelling:

a) against the advice of a medical practitioner, or

b) for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment.

3. Have you been given a terminal prognosis.

4. Are you receiving or awaiting treatment for any bodily injury, illness or disease as a hospital day case or in-patient.

5. If you are on prescribed medication, are your medical condition(s) stable and well controlled.

6. If you suffer from stress, anxiety, depression or any other mental or nervous disorder, have you received written confirmation (at your cost) that you are fit enough to take this trip by either:

a) a registered mental health professional (if you are under the care of a Community Mental Health Team), or

b) a consultant specialising in the relevant field.

If you are travelling outside of the United Kingdom You must telephone MediScreen on 0344 892 1698 if anyone to be covered by this policy, or any person upon whose health the trip depends: 1. Has or has had a medical condition (excluding childhood and minor ailments not requiring treatment).

2. Is taking prescribed medication.

3. Has or has had any medical condition still requiring periodic review.

4. Is awaiting any tests, treatment, investigation, referral or the results of these.

MediScreen’s office hours are 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 4pm Friday excluding Bank Holidays.

PLEASE NOTE – You must also notify MediScreen immediately of any changes in medical circumstances arising between the date the policy is issued and the time of departure for the trip. You may have to pay an additional premium to cover medical conditions. This applies to all destinations including trips solely within the United Kingdom (being defined as England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isles of Scilly).

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OR FIND US ON THE HIGH STREET IN BEESTON, BULWELL, NOTTINGHAM & DERBY

OUR GREAT ABTA TRAVEL SHOPS CAN HELP WITH MUCH MORE THAN RESERVING YOUR SKILLS HOLIDAY

WE DO EVERYTHING!!

CRUISE

WORLDWIDE FLIGHTS

ACTIVITY & ADVENTURE

SKILLS HOLIDAYS HEAD OFFICE

SKILLS WORLDWIDE TRAVEL

Belgrave Road Bulwell, NG6 8LY

Chilwell Road Beeston, NG9 1ES

TEL: 0115 9770 080

TEL: 01159 222 441

SKILLS & LAVER HOLIDAYS

SKILLS & LAVER HOLIDAYS

Mansfield Road Nottingham, NG1 3FB

Intu Centre Derby, DE1 2AZ

TEL: 01159 507 982

TEL: 01332 384 000

GROUPS

CITY BREAKS

BEACH HOLIDAYS

SKI

TAILOR MADE HOLIDAYS

68 CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

08456 66 55 44* | WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

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