Skills Group - Laver Holidays 2020 Brochure

Holidays PREMIUM DOOR-TO-DOOR by COACH HOLIDAYS & EXCURSIONS - 2020

08456 66 55 44* | WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Laver 2020 Brochure V64.indd 1

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We lco me

to our Laver Holidays 2020 Collection...

It is hard to underestimate the value of a door to door holiday experience to our many valued customers who choose this service.

We collect you from your home and bring you to meet our touring coach, offering the maximum convenience and the minimum of fuss – and of course, return you safely to your home after your wonderful holiday.

Using a blend of new tours with traditional Laver 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 customers, or new to our Laver brand I look forward to welcoming you on board soon,

Nigel Skill, Skills Group Chairman

Ho w to boo k.. .

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

VISIT OUR INDEPENDENT TRAVEL AGENTS..

SKILLS HEAD OFFICE

Belgrave Road Bulwell, NG6 8LY TEL: 01159 770 080

SKILLS & LAVER HOLIDAYS

Mansfield Road Nottingham, NG1 3FB TEL: 01159 507 982

SKILLS WORLDWIDE TRAVEL

Chilwell Road Beeston, NG9 1ES TEL: 01159 222 441

SKILLS & LAVER HOLIDAYS

Eagle Centre Market Derby, DE1 2AZ TEL: 01332 384 000

The harbor and beach view from viewpoint, Tenby, Wales © Tamas Gabor

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NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Why Choose a Laver Holiday...

National Trust and English Heritage Discounts Many of our holidays feature visits to National Trust and English Heritage properities.

If you hold a current National Trust and/or English Heritage membership, you may be eligible to a special discount if you tell us at the time of reservation.

Please note: You will need to bring your membership card with you on your holiday.

Culzean Castle Garden Š Douglas McGilviray

Travel Insurance Included We are committed to ensuring that our customers are taken care of every step of the way, that's why all of our holidays for 3 days or more have personal travel insurance included in the price of the package.

Holidays with included travel insurance will feature this symbol.

Our 'Door-to-Door' Service We know that you want total peace of mind, that's why our holidays include our 'Door-to-Door' service, where we pick you up straight from your front door and take you safely home at the end of your holiday.

Holidays with included door-to-door service will feature this symbol.

Our Club Class Service Our luxurious Club Class coaches offer a spacious, tabled seating area at the rear of the coach with additional legroom. Passengers can enjoy this space whilst travelling.

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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..

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.

Our Skills brand has an award-winning choice of breaks across Great Britain and Europe. We cover every type of adventure from luxury weekends, spa breaks and flower shows, through to tours of the highlights of Europe.

Fluid Pricing..

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

COACH TOURISM

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.

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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NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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OUR PREMIUM DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE We know that our passengers want total peace of mind when booking their holiday. That’s why all of our holidays include our simple ‘Door-to-Door service’, where we pick you up straight from your front door and take you safely home at the end of the your holiday.* Mansfield Alfreton

£15 per person supplement

Arnold

Derby Burton

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.

LOOK OUT FOR ME!

Ashby-dela-Zouch Coalville

FREE ZONE

INCLUDES OUR ‘DOORTO-DOOR’ SERVICE

Loughborough Leicester

Hinckley

To make it simplier for you on all of our breaks that include our ‘Door-toDoor’ service we have added the above symbol in the include box.

See page 95 for details of included insurance.

*Our Door-to-Door is not a private transfer there may be additional passengers on your vehicle. We are happy to quote a Door-to-Door collection from any address in Britain.

TO BOOK CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Laver 2020 Brochure V64.indd 5

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Index

Queen’s View at Loch Tummel, Scotland © Wallix

GRAND TOUR BREAKS

PAGES 10 - 17

NEW Grand Cornish Connections NEW Wonders of Wales in a Nutshell NEW Three Country Celtic Carousel NEW Grand Tour of Scenic Scotland Hebridean Island Adventure: Isles of Lewis, Skye & Harris NEW Inner Hebridean Island Hopper Castles & Cruising in the Scottish Highlands Grand Tour of Ireland

COASTAL BREAKS

PAGES 18 - 39

NEW Warners Corton Coastal Village Elegant Sidmouth & the Isle of Purbeck Featuring South Devon & Dorset Delights Cornish Coast to Coast: Falmouth, Eden Project & St Ives Cream of Cornwall: Gardens of Heligan Magnolias & Falmouth The English Riviera: Dartmouth Round Robin Rail & Cruise Paignton & Treats of Torbay South Coast Explorer: Weymouth & Thomas Hardy’s Wessex Weymouth & the Jurassic Coast Explorer Brighton & the Enchanting Gardens of East Sussex Beautiful South: Eastbourne, Beachy Head & Bluebell Line Worthing & the Wonders of West Sussex Isle of Wight Delights: Mottistone Manor Gardens & The Needles Bournemouth & A Taste of the Isle of Wight

6

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 23 24 24 25 26 27 28

COASTAL BREAKS CONTINUED

PAGES 18 - 39

Bournemouth, Poole & the Glorious New Forest Enchanting Devon Dorset Coast Delights North Devon Explorer NEW Weston Super Mare & Somerset Summer Splendor NEW Lytham and the Blackpool Illuminations Yorkshire Gold Coast & Country Northumberland Coast: Holy Isle, Durham & Bamburgh Castle Pembrokeshire Coast: St Davids, Tenby & Gower Peninsula NEW Potters Resort Royal Norfolk Coast & Country Featuring Cromer Crab Festival Norfolk Coast and Broads NEW Margate & the East Kent Coast

STUNNING RAILWAY JOURNEYS

29 30 31 31 32 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

PAGES 40 - 47

Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire Featuring Strathsprey Steam Railway 40 Llandudno, Snowdon Mountain Railway & Pontcysyllte Aqueduct 41 NEW Trails, Rails & St David’s Day in Wales 42 Welsh Border Charm Rail & Sail 43 Llangollen Canal Cruise & Steam Dreams 43 Welsh Lake Bala Rail & Puffin Island Sail 44 Isle of Man Steam Railway, Cregneash Folk Museum & Curraghs 45 NEW Royals & Rails in Scotland 46 Isle of Man & the Lake District

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BRITAIN’S HERITAGE

PAGES 48 - 58

NEW Lakeland Winter Warmer All Inclusive House Party Laver’s Annual Get-Together in Norfolk Summer Cruising in the Northern Lake District NEW The Wonders of Wiltshire & Mysteries of Stonehenge NEW Cotswolds & the Wye Valley & A Gloucester Canal Cruise Heart of England: Shakespeare’s Stratford & Cotswolds NEW A Taste of the West Country Tyne & Wear: Tanfield & Beamish NEW Lincolnshire Gems & the Battle of Britain Kynren: An Epic Tale of England NEW Yorkshire’s Roses: Harrogate, York & Castle Howard Proms Durham, Alnwick Castle & Open Air Beamish Museum NEW A Right Royal & Aristocrat Adventure

SHORTER STAYS

PAGES 65 - 72

Royal Easter in Oban Easter in Northumberland

Daffodils at Chippenham Gardens & St Albans Snowdrops in the Cotswolds Kew Gardens Orchid Festival & Windsor NEW Chiltern Hills & Bluebells at Kew Chatsworth Flower Show RHS Chelsea Flower Show & Kew Gardens NEW Shakespearean Splendour & Stratford River Festival Cavern Club, Liverpool & Port Sunlight Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo NEW Fabulous Forties Festival in Colwyn Bay Mountbatten Festival of Music at the Royal Albert Hall Hereford & Brecon Mountain Railway Postal Museum London & Oxford

WINTER ESCAPES

48 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 55 56 57 58

65 65 66 66 67 67 68 68 69 69 70 71 71 72 72

CASTLES, HOUSES & GARDENS

NEW Morse’s Oxford & Downton Abbey Regal Homes & Royal Palaces

Garden of England & Historic Kentish Castles Maritime Portsmouth & Historic Houses of Hampshire Featuring Beaulieu and Broadlands Blooming Beauty of Eastern England’s Sunshine Coast Constable Country Landscapes Featuring Ickworth House Colourful Cotswolds Houses & Gardens Castles of Scottish Lowlands

MORE THAN COACHING

59 60 61 62 62 63 63 64

PAGES 73 - 78

Jersey by Air Guernsey by Air Isles of Scilly 4 star Irish Experience Brussels Flower Carpet Cruise & Maritime Voyages British Isles Discovery Cruise & Maritime Voyages: Faroes & Northern Isles

73 74 75 76 76 78 78

KEY Includes Doorto-Door service

Includes travel insurance

Hotel key Seafront Hotel

Restaurant

Entertainment

Indoor Pool

Lift

Bar

Free Wi-Fi

Spa/Wellbeing

PAGES 79 - 95

NEW Christmas at Blenheim Palace & Festive Stratfordupon-Avon Christmas market 80 NEW RHS Wisley Festive Glow & Hampton Court Palace 80 Thursford Christmas Spectacular 81 NEW Warner Littlecote House Hotel 82 Early Festivities in Elegant Sidmouth 83 Norwich & Norfolk Winter Wonderland 84 Royal Albert Hall Christmas Concert Featuring Oxford 85 NEW Royal Festivities in Windsor & Stonor Park 85 Fountain Abbey Light Festival & Castle Howard 86 Cotswolds & Wye Valley Seasonal Splendour 86 Mistletoe & Wine at the Rosemundy House 87 North Devon Festive Delights Featuring Dunster by Candlelight 88 NEW Christmas in the Peak District 89 NEW Lincoln Christmas Cracker 90 Christmas in Llandudno: Llangollen Railway & Isle of Anglesey 91 Northumbrian Noel Christmas 92 NEW Auld Lang Syne in the Lakes 93 NEW New Year Celebrations in Eastbourne 94 NEW Potters Resort 2021 Get-Together 95

TRAVEL DURATION*

DEPOSIT (per person)

Coach holidays of 2 days or less

£30

Coach holidays of 3-8 days

£50

Coach holidays of 9 days or more

£70

At the time of purchasing a package holiday you will need to pay a deposit for each person named on the booking. *Depending on your travel duration. Deposits may increase when booking breaks with attractions and entrances.

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PAGES 59 - 64

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Holiday Planner JANUARY Th 16 Mo 20

Sa 25

DAYS PAGE

Laver’s Annual Get-Together Lakeland Winter Warmer All Inclusive House Party Postal Museum London & Oxford

FEBRUARY Sa 15 Sa 22

Tu 25

Snowdrops in the Cotswolds Kew Gardens Orchid Festival & Windsor South Coast Explorer: Weymouth & Thomas Hardy’s Wessex

Trails, Rails & St David’s Day in Wales Cavern Club, Liverpool & Port Sunlight Isle of Man & the Lake District Mountbatten Festival of Music Daffodils at Chippenham Gardens Heart of England: Shakespeare’s Stratford & the Cotswolds Cream of Cornwall: Lost Gardens of Heligan Magnolias & Falmouth

8

48 72

2

66

2

67

5

23

5 2 7 3 2

42 69 47 71 66

5

52

5

21

DAYS PAGE

Welsh Border Charm Rail & Sail Pembrokeshire Coast: St Davids, Tenby & Gower Peninsula Easter in Northumberland A Royal Easter in Oban Warner Corton Coastal Village Lincolnshire Gems & The Battle of Britain Jersey By Air Fabulous 40’s Festival in Colwyn Bay Grand Cornish Connections Chiltern Hills & Bluebells at Kew Royals & Rails in Scotland

MAY Fr 1 Mo 4 Mo 4 Mo 4 Mo 4 Sa 9 Sa 9 Mo 11

5 2

DAYS PAGE

APRIL Th 2 Mo 6

Fr 10 Fr 10 Mo 13 Mo 20

Mo 20 Th 23 Th 23 Sa 25 Mo 27

48

DAYS PAGE

MARCH Su 1 Sa 7 Fr 13 Fr 13 Sa 21 Mo 23

Th 26

4

5

43

5 4 5 5

35 65 65 18

5 5 5 9 2 5

55 73 71 10 67 46

DAYS PAGE

Guernsey By Air The Beautiful South Margate & the East Kent Coast Hebridean Island Adventure North Devon Explorer Isle of Wight Delights Hereford & Brecon Mountain Railway Royal Norfolk Coast & Country

6 6 5 7 5 6 2 7

74 25 39 14 31 27 72 37

MAY Tu 12

We 13 Th 14

Su 17 We 20

Th 21

Su 24

DAYS PAGE

Elegant Sidmouth Featuring South Devon & Dorset Delights Royal Norfolk Coast & Country Cruise & Maritime Voyages: Faroes & Northern Isles 4 Star Irish Experience RHS Chelsea Flower Show & Kew Gardens The Wonders of Wiltshire & Mysteries of Stonehenge Northumberland Coast: Holy Isle, Durham & Bamburgh Castle

JUNE Mo 1

Mo 1

Fr 5 Su 7 Mo 8

Sa 13 Sa 13

Mo 15

Mo 15 Mo 22 Mo 22

Mo 22

Sa 27 Mo 29 JULY Fr 3 Sa 4

Mo 6 Mo 6 Sa 11 Su 12 Mo 13

We 15 We 15 Mo 20

6 7

19 37

7 6

78 76

3

68

5

50

5

34

DAYS PAGE

Llandudno, Snowdon Mountain Railway & Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Castles & Cruising in the Scottish Highlands Enchanting Devon Jersey By Air Brighton & the Enchanting Gardens of East Sussex Chatsworth Flower Show

Bournemouth & A Taste of the Isle of Wight Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire Featuring Strathspey Steam Railway Yorkshire Coast & Country Welsh Lake Bala Rail & Puffin Island Sail Weston Super Mare & Somerset Summer Splendor Colourful Cotswolds Houses & Gardens Featuring Blenheim Flower Show Paignton & Treats of Torbay Wonders of Wales in a Nutshell

5

41

7 8 7

16 30 73

6 2

24 68

7

28

6 5 5

40 33 44

5

32

5 5 7

63 23 11

DAYS PAGE

Norfolk Coast and Broads 4 Shakespearean Splendour & Stratford River Festival 2 Weymouth & the Jurassic Coast Explorer 5 Jersey By Air 6 Inner Hebridean Island Hopper 7 Potters Resort 6 Blooming Beauty of Eastern Englands Sunshine Coast 5 Elegant Sidmouth & the Isle of Purbeck 5 Guernsey By Air 6 The English Riviera: Dartmouth Round Robin Rail & Cruise 5

38 69 24 73 15 36 62 19 74 22

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Holiday Planner JULY Mo 20 Tu 21

Su 26 Mo 27

DAYS PAGE

A Right Royal & Aristocrat Adventure Garden of England & Historic Kentish Castles Treasures of Tyne & Wear Isle of Wight Delights

AUGUST Mo 3

Mo 3 Mo 10

Mo 10 Th 13 Sa 15 Sa 15 Th 20 Fr 21

Fr 21 Sa 22

Mo 24

Fr 28 Mo 31

5

58

5 5 7

61 54 27

DAYS PAGE

Cotswolds & the Wye Valley Featuring a Gloucester Canal Cruise Yorkshire Gold Coast & Country Summer Cruising in the Northern Lake District

Enchanting Devon Brussels Flower Carpet Morse’s Oxford & Downton Abbey Regal Homes & Royal Palaces

Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo Yorkshire’s Roses Featuring Harrogate, York & Castle Howard Proms Three Country Celtic Carousel Isle of Man Steam Railway, Cregneash Folk Museum & Curraghs Maritime Portsmouth & Historic Houses of Hampshire Kynren: An Epic Tale of England Dorset Coast Delights

5 5

51 33

5 5 4 5 5 4

49 30 76 59 60 70

3 8

56 12

5

45

5 3 5

62 55 31

SEPTEMBER We 2 Constable Country Landscapes

Featuring Ickworth House 5 We 2 Cruise & Maritime: British Isles

Discovery Cruise 14 Fr 4 Isles of Scilly 7 Sa 5 The Beautiful South: Eastbourne,

Beachy Head & Bluebell Line 6 Mo 7 Durham, Alnwick Castle & Beamish 5 Mo 7 Bournemouth, Poole & the New Forest 5 We 9 Constable Country Landscapes 5 We 9 Guernsey By Air 6 Su 13 Worthing & The Wonders of West Sussex 6 Su 13 Jersey By Air 7 Mo 14 Cornish Coast to Coast: Falmouth,

the Eden Project & St Ives

6 Mo 14 Pembrokeshire Coast: St Davids,

Tenby & Gower Peninsula 5 Mo 14 The English Riviera: Dartmouth Round

Robin Rail & Cruise 8 Th 17 Taste of the West Country 7

DAYS PAGE

63 78 75 25 57 29 63 74 26 73 20 35 22 53

SEPTEMBER Mo 21

Th 24 Fr 25 Fr 25 Mo 28

Tu 29

Llandudno, Snowdon Mountain Railway & Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Isle of Wight Delights

Elegant Sidmouth & the Isle of Purbeck Lytham and Blackpool Illuminations Northumberland Coast: Holy Isle, Durham & Bamburgh Castle Grand Tour of Scenic Scotland

OCTOBER Mo 12 Su 18 Mo 19 Mo 19 Sa 24

Mo 26

Fr 4

Tu 8 Fr 11 Sa 12

Mo 14

Fr 18

We 23 We 23 We 23 We 23 We 30 We 30

Potters Resort 2021 Get-Together

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5 10

34 13

11 6 5 5

17 64 39 36

2 5

43 49

3 3 3 5 5

81 84 81 83 87

2 5

86 82

DAYS PAGE

North Devon Festive Delights Featuring Dunster by Candlelight 3 Royal Albert Hall Christmas Concert 3 Royal Festivities in Windsor & Stonor Park 3 Christmas at Blenheim Palace & Festive Stratford-upon-Avon 2 Cotswolds & Wye Valley Seasonal Splendour 3 RHS Wisley Festive Glow & Hampton Court Palace 3 Christmas in the Peak District 5 Lincoln Christmas Cracker 5 Christmas in Llandudno 5 Northumbrian Noel Christmas 5 Auld Lang Syne in the Lakes 4 New Year Celebration in Eastbourne 4

JANUARY 2021 Fr 29

41 27 19 32

DAYS PAGE

Thursford Christmas Spectacular Norwich & Norfolk Winter Wonderland Thursford Christmas Spectacular Early Festivities in Elegant Sidmouth Mistletoe & Wine at Rosemundy House Fountain Abbey Light Festival & Castle Howard Warner Littlecote House Hotel

DECEMBER

5 5 6 4

DAYS PAGE

Grand Tour of Ireland

Castles of Scottish Lowlands Margate & the East Kent Coast Potters Resort Llangollen Canal Cruise & Steam Dreams Southern Lakeland Explorer

NOVEMBER Mo 2 We 4 Sa 7 Mo 9 Sa 14 Sa 21

Mo 30

DAYS PAGE

88 85 85 80 86 80 89 90 91 92 93 94

DAYS PAGE

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NEW

Grand Cornish Connections

Highlights include Minack Theatre, St Michael’s Mount. Lands End & Lost Gardens of Heligan

St Michael’s Mount © AGEphotography

World famous for its natural beauty, awardwinning beaches and sub-tropical gardens Cornwall is the perfect getaway. Highlights include visits to Land’s End, the unique Minack Theatre, St Michael’s Mount and the Lost Gardens of Heligan for a delightful Cornish Cream Tea! There will also be free time in St Ives, Falmouth, Mevagissey, Looe and Penzance.

Queens Hotel *** Penzance The Queens Hotel boasts a restaurant with views across Mount’s Bay, St. Michael’s Mount and Newlyn Harbour.

Jurys Inn Plymouth **** Situated in the heart of Plymouth city centre rooms features a Dream bed, spacious bathrooms with toiletries and tea and coffee making facilities.

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DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 6 – Enjoy free time in Plymouth. Perhaps head Day 1 – We travel south to Exmouth for free time down to Plymouth Hoe, one of the most beautiful before continuing to our hotel in Exeter. natural harbours in the world.

Day 2 – We visit Padstow. A charming fishing port surrounded by sandy beaches and renowned as a foodie destination. After some free time, we continue to the Queens Hotel.

Day 3 – This morning we visit Minack Theatre, one of the world’s most famous outdoor examples. Perched on top of cliffs high above the Atlantic Ocean, this unique theatre hosts dramas, musicals and opera performances every summer!

Later, we visit the most iconic coastal landscapes Land’s End.

Day 7 – This morning we travel to the charming fishing port of Mevagissey for free time before visiting the Lost Gardens of Heligan, where we will have a traditional West Country Cream Tea – and don’t forget jam before the cream is the Cornish way!

Day 8 – After breakfast we travel to the picturesque fishing port of Looe for some free time. The town prides itself on its fresh fish and gourmet menus in the restaurants overlooking the harbour, which won’t disappoint.

Day 9 – Taking away cherished memories with us, we Day 4 – Today takes us to St Ives, a picturesque return home. fishing harbour and seaside resort. Next we travel to Marazion where admission into the National Trust’s St Michael’s Mount is included. This iconic INCLUDES rocky island is crowned by a medieval church 8 nights half board and castle. Please note: Paths around the isle are Free time in Exmouth & Plymouth steep, cobbled and uneven with no handrails, so Excursions to Land’s End, St Ives, Padstow, Fowey, sensible footwear is recommended.

Falmouth, Mevagissey & Looe Visits to Minack Theatre & Michael’s Mount Day 5 – After breakfast we visit Falmouth for (includes entrance to the castle and gardens) free time. Shaped and influenced by its strong Admission into the Lost Gardens of Heligan connection to the sea, Falmouth is based around with a traditional West Country Cream Tea a thriving harbour and a fascinating maritime heritage – which you can explore in the award9 Days winning Maritime Museum. We then continue to Thu 23 April - Fri 1 May Fowey before travelling to the Jurys Inn, Plymouth. Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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NEW

Wonders of Wales in a Nutshell Featuring Ffestiniog Railway, Portmeirion & the Gower Peninsula THE HO AT

S ENTER DE

INCLU TEL

INMENT TA

Portmeirion © Richard Walker

Discover a kingdom of dramatic landscapes, thrilling mountain scenery and fascinating ancient culture on our incredible Grand Tour of Wales. Uncover this remote but wonderful corner of the country from on board our comfortable coach and enjoy half board stays in Llanberis and Carmarthen.

Royal Victoria Hotel *** Llanberis The Royal Victoria Hotel offers comfortable rooms that feature home comforts including tea and coffee making facilities. A lift serves some floors.

Ivy Bush Royal Hotel *** Carmarthen Located on a spectacular position at the gateway to west Wales, our Hotel blends its old-world charm with modern facilities. A lift serves some floors.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We enjoy a stop in Llandudno before continuing to our hotel in Llanberis. On arrival we will have a welcome tea or coffee and entertainment will be provided each evening.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the unique village of Portmeirion, situated on a private peninsula overlooking stunning coastal scenery and one of Wales’ most popular tourist destinations. This afternoon we travel to Blaenau Ffestiniog for a journey on the Ffestiniog Railway. Travelling through the glorious Snowdonia National Park, you will experience the magnificent scenery in the comfort of a gleaming steam engines and carriages!

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure in Llanberis. This evening a glass of wine will be included with dinner.

has one of the largest collections of cultivated plants in west Wales. This afternoon we travel to Tenby, a delightful little harbour town and seaside resort.

Day 6 – After breakfast we travel to Mumbles, famous as the birthplace of Dylan Thomas and home to a broad range of quirky shops. Next we continue the short distance to the Gower Heritage Centre, where we will be joined by a knowledgeable guide, for a tour of the Peninsula. We return to the centre to enjoy a traditional cream tea.

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES

6 nights half board Welcome drinks on arrival Hotel entertainment on some nights Day 4 – This morning we visit the charming seaside Free use of the Ivy Bush Royal Hotel’s leisure facilities resort of Barmouth, one of the most beautiful 1 glass of wine served with dinner on day 3 locations in Wales! Later, we take you to our hotel Admission into Portmeirion in Carmarthen. On arrival there will be tea and Journey on the Ffestiniog Railway coffee waiting for us before dinner and during Guided tour of Picton Castle & Gardens and the our stay there will be one night of entertainment.

Gower Peninsula with a Cream Tea Guests can also enjoy free use of the hotel’s leisure Excursions to Llandudno, Barmouth, Mumbles & Tenby facilities, which includes a sauna.

Free time in Llanberis Day 5 – This morning we visit Picton Castle & Gardens for a guided tour. Set in 40‐acres of magnificent woodland and walled gardens, it

Mon 29 June - Sun 5 July Please see price booklet for details

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7 Days

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NEW

Three Country Celtic Carousel Featuring Highlights of Scotland, Ireland & Wales

Culzean Castle © Douglas McGilviray

DURING YOUR STAY...

Discover three kingdoms of dramatic scenery, historic castles, rich heritage and contrasting Day 1 – Travelling north we will enjoy a comfort landscapes on our incredible three country break at Gretna Green before continuing to our experience. hotel located close to Irvine, one of Scotland’s The Riverside Lodge Hotel **** Irvine

most beautiful areas. Upon arrival tea/coffee and Scottish shortbread will be served.

Day 2 – We make our way to the Robert Burns Our hotel provides ground floor rooms. If you require Birthplace Museum. Set in 10-acres of the poet’s one, please request it at the time of booking. cherished countryside, it includes Burns Cottage, Please note there is no lift. where the poet was born and the historic Ballymascanlon House Hotel **** Dundalk landmarks where he set his greatest work. We then continue to Culzean, one of Scotland’s best loved castles, to enjoy a guided tour.

Our hotel is set within 130 acres of parkland. It boasts an 18-hole golf course and a health club, with sauna, Day 3 – We cross the Irish Sea to Belfast, continuing on to The Ballymascanlon House hotel, indoor swimming pool, and a hot tub. which is set in 130-acres of beautiful parkland A lift serves most floors. close to the Mourne Mountains. There will be welcome tea or coffee on arrival.

Day 4 – We travel to Dublin for an introductory guided cruise along the River Liffey. Afterwards there will be free time.

The Celtic Royal Hotel *** Caernarfon Our traditional hotel prides itself on fabulous, awardwinning standards of customer service. The hotel offers comfortable, stylish bedrooms, a chic brasserie style restaurant and leisure facilities.

A lift serves most floors.

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Day 5 – Our excursion today takes us to Belfast for a guided coach tour. We also visit Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic exhibitions.

Day 6 – This morning we visit Malahide Castle and Gardens where we enjoy a guided tour. Later, we will sail from Dublin to the Welsh port of Holyhead, continuing over the Menai Bridge to our next hotel The Celtic Royal.

Day 7 – We begin the day with a short walk to visit to the impressive Caernarfon Castle, famous as the site of the investiture of Prince Charles as Prince of Wales. The rest of the day is free to explore at leisure.

Day 8 – After breakfast we begin our homeward journey which takes us via the Snowdonia National Park calling at Betws-y-Coed, often referred to as ‘Little Switzerland.’

INCLUDES 7 nights half board Excursions to Gretna Green, Belfast, Dublin & Betws-y-Coed Admission into Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, Culzean Castle, Titanic Belfast, Malahide Castle & Gardens & Caernarfon Castle Boat cruise on the River Liffey, Dublin Guided coach tour of Belfast Wed 21 August - Fri 28 August

8 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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NEW

Grand Tour of Scenic Scotland

Highlights include Edinburgh, John O’Groats, Loch Ness & a Loch Lomond Cruise

Queen’s View at Loch Tummel © Wallix

Discover dramatic landscapes, grand castles and historic cities from the comfort of the coach on our Grand Tour of Scenic Scotland. We’ve included a journey along the famous ‘North Coast 500’, a cruise along the glistening shores of Loch Lomond and visits to Holyroodhouse, Dunrobin Castle and Loch Ness.

Golden Lion Hotel *** Stirling Located in Stirling city centre, our hotel has a traditional bar and a restaurant serving Scottish beef and lamb.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel north of the border for a stop in Moffat before continuing to our first hotel, the Golden Lion Hotel in Stirling for 2-nights.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Edinburgh with admission to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, The Queen’s official Scottish residence.

Day 3 – We visit the Victorian spa town of Pitlochry, one of Scotland’s most beautiful destinations.

Followed by a scenic journey through the Cairngorms National Park to the Highland capital of Inverness.

Enjoy free time before travelling to the Ben Wyvis Hotel in Strathpeffer for 2-nights.

monster as we visit the Loch Ness Visitors Centre, then we continue to Ben Nevis Hotel in Fort William for 2-nights.

Day 8 – Morning at leisure in Fort William. Perhaps visit the West Highland Museum, housing a large collection of Jacobite memorabilia. This afternoon we enjoy a drive to the nearby Neptunes Staircase, a dramatic flight of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal. We continue our circular tour via Gairlochy, stopping en route for spectacular views of Ben Nevis and the Great Glen.

Day 9 – Returning south, we visit the small town of Balloch on the ‘Bonnie Banks’ of Loch Lomond, for a cruise.

Afterwards, we head to the picturesque village of Luss and our final overnight hotel.

Day 4 – Situated in a picturesque woodland our hotel Day 10 – We retrace our footsteps home enjoying a leisurely stop in the border town of Gretna Green. provides the perfect setting for your day at leisure.

Ben Wyvis Hotel ***

Strathpeffer

Norseman Hotel ****

Wick

Ben Nevis Hotel ***

Fort William

Day 5 – We begin our day with a spectacular coastal drive along the famous ‘North Coast 500’ – Scotland’s INCLUDES version of Route 66. It weaves through some of 9 nights half board Scotland’s most beautiful coastal scenery, including Excursions to Moffat, Edinburgh, Pitlochry, a visit the fairytale castle of Dunrobin. The final leg of Inverness, John O’Groats, Thurso & Balloch our journey will take us to the white sands of Brora Admission into Holyroodhouse Palace before we arrive at our hotel in Wick for 2-nights.

Visits to Dunrobin Castle & the Loch Ness Visitor Centre Day 6 – Today we explore the far northeastern corner Loch Lomond circular cruise of the Scottish mainland starting in John O’Groats. We Free time in Strathpeffer & Fort William continue along the North Coast 500 past the Castle Scenic drive along the North Coast 500 of Mey, residence of the late Queen Mother and to Thurso, the most northerly town in Scotland.

Tue 29 September - Thu 8 October

Day 7 – Keep your eyes peeled today for the

Please see price booklet for details

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Hebridean Island Adventure: Isles of Lewis, Skye & Harris

Portree, Isle of Skye © Easyturn

Experience a truly unique way of life as we discover the rich history behind the beautiful inter‐connected islands. See the 5,000 year old Callanish stones and marvel at the Iron Age structure of Carloway Broch. Then sit back and relax, admiring the spectacular view on a guided tour through Lewis and Harris.

Other excursions include the Isle of Skye, Isles of Uists, Inverness & Spey Valley.

Kings Arms Hotel ** Isle of Skye Our hotel is one of the oldest on the Isle of Skye and has retained many traditional features as well as gaining modern homely comforts.

Isle of Benbecula Hotel ** Benbecula Our hotel offers comfortable rooms equipped to suit the requirements of any traveller.

Limited ground floor rooms available on request.

Caberfeidh Hotel **** Stornoway The hotel was awarded a Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor for the quality of food in the restaurant

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DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel to our first 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 then travel north past Eilean Donan Castle, the second most photographed castle in Scotland to the Isle of Skye and the Kings Arms Hotel.

Day 3 – After a magnificent drive across Skye, we catch the ferry across to North Uist. This Day 6 – This morning, we catch the ferry to Ullapool afternoon we take a scenic coastal drive of the and travel to Inverness, the ‘Capital of the Highlands’.

Uists, passing lochs and golden beaches before After free time we enjoy a drive south through the checking in to the Isles of Benbecula Hotel. picturesque Spey Valley and reach our overnight hotel.

Day 4 – We sail over to Lewis and Harris, the largest of the Hebridean Islands. This rugged landscape of deep‐sea lochs and mountains retains a proud history dating back to prehistoric times. Here we will enjoy a two-night half-board stay at the 4* Caberfeidh Hotel in Stornaway.

Day 5 – A full day tour of Lewis and Harris with an experienced island guide. A local coach will pick you up at the hotel and take us around the best bits of the Isle. We will visit the impressive standing stones of Callanish and the imposing Carloway Broch. Also included is entrance into the Black House Museum of ancient thatched settlements.

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

INCLUDES Ferry sailings 6 nights half board Guided tour of Lewis and Harris + entrance into the Black Houses & Museum Excursions to Isle of Skye, the isles of Uists, Lewis and Harris, Inverness & The Spey Valley Entrance into the Black Houses & Museum Mon 4 May - Sun 10 May

7 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Inner Hebridean Island Hopper: Arran, Islay & Skye

Glenfinnan Monument © Joe Dunckley

DURING YOUR STAY...

Discover an area of bewildering landscapes, dramatic coastlines and a captivating history, on our mesmerising escape. Visit the isle of Arran, voted one of the top islands in the world, Islay, famous for its delicious whisky, and Skye, home to some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes.

Grey Gull Hotel *** Ardrishaig Our hotel features a restaurant, bar, a shared lounge and garden in Ardrishaig. Guestrooms include tea and coffee making facilities.

Kings Arms Hotel ** Isle of Skye Our hotel is one of the oldest on the Isle of Skye and has retained many traditional features as well as gaining modern homely comforts.

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

Day 2 – We set sail to the Isle of Arran, home to dramatic mountain peaks, sheltered beaches and verdant forests. After time in Brodick, the island’s main town, we tour the coastal communities of Lamlash, Whiting Bay and Blackwaterfoot. Later we board the ferry to the Mull of Kintyre and drive along Loch Fyne to the Grey Gull Hotel for 2 nights.

town set around a natural harbor and fringed by towering sea cliffs. Included is admission to Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.

Day 6 – After breakfast we leave Skye behind and travel through Glen Shiel past the Five Sisters of Kintal mountains towering above the Great Glen to Fort William, where we make a lunchtime stop. From there we drive through Glencoe to the ‘Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond’, and to our final overnight in central Scotland.

Day 3 – We head to the stunning Isle of Islay, best known for its peaty, smoky whiskies. We visit Day 7 – After an amazing trip filled with lots of incredible Bowmore, the island’s capital for free time before sights, we travel home. enjoying a whiskey distillery tour and tasting.

Later, we catch the ferry back to mainland with INCLUDES dinner served on board.

Ferry sailings 6 nights half board Day 4 – This morning we drive through the Excursion to Oban & the Trossachs Highland countryside, passing Inverary and Return ferry sailing to the Isle of Arran visiting Brodick Loch Awe before reaching Oban, where we will Return ferry sailing to the Isle of Islay with a whiskey enjoy free time. Continuing via Fort William and distillery tour & tasting the ‘Road to the Isles’ we visit the Glenfinnan Monument – a moving tribute to those who died Ferry sailing to the Isle of Skye visiting Portree fighting the Jacobites. We board the ferry to take Admission into Dunvegan Castle (on the Isle of Skye) us ‘over the sea to Skye’ and the Kings Arms Hotel Scenic drive through the Highland countryside via Inverary and Loch Awe for 2 nights.

Photo opportunity at Glenfinnan Monument Day 5 – We explore the Isle of Skye, the largest in the Inner Hebrides and home to Scotland’s most Sat 11 July - Fri 17 July 7 Days iconic landscapes. We will visit Portree, the main Please see price booklet for details

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Castles & Cruising in the Scottish Highlands

Urquhart Castle and the Loch Ness © TT

Scotland showcases a collection of aweinspiring scenery to rival any in the world, and a tour of the Highlands is probably one of the most incredible journeys. Discover the dramatic landscape by coach on our breathtaking break filled with culture, history, architecture, stunning scenery and if you’re lucky a glimpse of Nessie!

Lovat Arms Hotel *** Beauly Set in the heart of the magnificent Scottish Highlands, our hotel offers a home away from home experience. After a day spent exploring, the restaurant awaits, where dishes are prepared from the finest local produce.

Please note: Our hotel does not have a lift but there are a limited number of ground floor rooms available on request

DURING YOUR STAY...

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

Day 2 – This morning we visit Blair Castle, the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl.

There are over 30 rooms for you to explore, including the Victorian Ballroom decorated in 175 pairs of antlers. The Entrance Hall features weapons used at the Battle of Culloden. After some free time, our experienced driver will take us on a scenic drive through Cairngorms National Park – situated in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, before we travel to our hotel in Beauly.

Day 3 – ‘C’est un beau lieu’ - what a beautiful place, was Mary Queen of Scots’ reaction to the grandeur of the scene when she stayed in Beauly.

You may like to browse the small collection of shops around the town square or wander further afield for a stroll by the River Beauly, as you have free time today.

Day 4 – Enjoy a cruise along the majestic Caledonian Canal and on the world-famous waters of Loch Ness. Enjoy panoramic views of the Highlands, Aldourie Castle, Bona Lighthouse, and don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Nessie! Later we visit Urquhart Castle, with 1,000 years of history, and a taste of the Highlands at their most dramatic.

Day 5 – After breakfast we visit Inverness including a scenic cruise on the Moray Firth. Keep your eyes peeled for pods of wild dolphins with a specialist guide on board giving a full commentary.

Day 6 – We begin our journey south to our overnight hotel staying in the Scottish Borders.

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES 2 nights half board en route 4 nights half board in resort Admission to Blair Castle & Urquhart Castle Scenic drive through the Cairgorms National Park Visit to Invernes Caledonian Canal cruise along the Loch Ness Moray Firth cruise Free time in Beauly Mon 1 June - Sun 7 June

7 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Highlights include Dublin, Ring of Kerry, Giants Causeway & Titanic Experience Belfast

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Grand Tour of Ireland

CLASS C UB Scenic coastline of Ring of Kerry, Ireland © Mark22

Take in Ireland’s famous scenery, pretty‐ postcard villages and wealth of history on our impressive getaway to the Emerald Isle.

We include visits to the world‐famous Giants Causeway, the Ring of Kerry, Belfast, Killarney, Sligo, Galway, Adare and Cong and much more!

Killarney Towers Hotel **** Killarney Our hotel offers a range of modern and comfortable facilities, coupled with a friendly and courteous service.

Dooley’s Hotel *** Waterford Falls Hotel & Spa **** Ennistymon Central Hotel *** Donegal Park Avenue Hotel **** Belfast Esplanade Hotel *** Bray

DURING YOUR STAY...

Causeway Visitor Centre (shuttle bus to Giant’s Causeway is

Day 1 – We cross the Irish Sea, with two course meal on board the vessel included. Upon arrival in Waterford tea and biscuits will be provided by our hotel.

Day 2 – We visit Blarney Castle & Gardens before travelling to the Killarney Towers Hotel for 3 nights.

Day 3 – Enjoy a unique Jaunting Car ride.

Experience Ireland’s most traditional mode of transport around Killarney National Park and the Lakes of Killarney. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lough Leane.

Day 4 – We have arranged a sensational Ring of Kerry tour. Throughout the day we will venture through Killarney National Park, along Derrynane Beach, Ballinskelligs Beach, Valentia Island and Knight’s Town and visit Kenmare for free time and lunch at Portmagee.

Day 5 – This morning we visit Adare, often voted Ireland’s prettiest village. Our experienced driver will then take us on a coastal drive passing the stunning Cliffs of Moher before continuing to Ennistymon and the Falls Hotel for 2 nights.

Day 6 – Ennistymon is a beautiful town full of oldworld charm. Our hotel is a short walk from the local shopping area, take advantage of this free day to explore the area at your leisure.

Day 7 – We travel via Cong to Foxford and Sligo before arriving at the Central Hotel in Donegal Day 8 – Our first stop is the the famous Giant’s

Before journeying along the famous Antrim Coast road – one of the most iconic in Europe, stopping for free time in Ballycastle. After, we travel to the Park Avenue Hotel.

Day 9 – We have arranged a guided tour of Belfast and admission into the Titanic Experience.

Day 10 – Travel to Dublin where we have a little free time followed by a guided tour of the city. Later, we travel to the Esplanade Hotel in Bray.

Day 11 – We collect our breakfast bags and make our return crossing with breakfast served on board.

available at £1 each way on the day).

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel Ferry sailings 10 nights dinner, bed & breakfast Admission into Blarney Stone Castle & Gardens, Giant’s Causeway & Titanic Experience Killarney Jaunting Cars Lough Leane Cruise Ring of Kerry Tour featuring Derrynane Beach Scenic drives through Killarney National Park, Ballinskelligs Beach, Valentia Island & Knight’s Town A scenic drive along the Antrim Coast Road past Glens of Antrim with a stop in Ballycastle Town Guided tour of Belfast & Dublin Excursion to Kenmare, Adare, Cong, Foxford, Sligo, Giants Causeway Visitor Centre, Dublin & Portmagee Mon 12 October - Thu 22 October Please see price booklet for details

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Warner Corton Coastal Village

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© Warner Leisure

DURING YOUR STAY...

Join us as we travel to Warners Corton Coastal Village, a Warner resort jam-packed with day time activities and night time entertainment. We have also included excursions to Kings Lynn, Southwold, Lowestoft, Norwich, Wroxham & Spalding.

Day 1 – We travel to the Suffolk coast via a relaxing break in Kings Lynn. Our resort is located near a 50-mile stretch of heritage coastline and on your doorstep you’ll find a score of Blue Flag beaches and ancient towns to visit.

Warner Corton Coastal Village **** Suffolk

Day 2 – This morning we visit Southwold for free time. The town’s dramatic coastline and beautiful old-world charm makes it a popular attraction throughout the year. This afternoon we travel to Lowestoft.

Built in the chalet style, rooms have a clapboard design with fresh pastel interiors, and many have terraces overlooking the sea. Guests can have a snack in the Coffee Lounge or enjoy cabaret in The Boathouse.

Day 3 – Enjoy a full day at leisure in our resort.

After a morning of activities perhaps visit the leisure club where you can unwind and relax in the sauna and steam room or take a dip in the indoor pool, before enjoying an evening of fantastic food and entertainment.

Day 4 – After breakfast we will have free time in Norwich, the most complete medieval city in the UK. Perhaps visit Strangers’ Hall, the oldest and most fascinating building in the city. We return to our resort via Wroxham on the Norfolk Broads.

Day 5 – After breakfast we return home, enjoying some free time in Spalding along the way.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment Excursions to Kings Lynn, Southwold, Lowestoft, Norwich, Wroxham & Spalding Free time to enjoy the resorts leisure facilities Mon 13 April - Fri 17 April

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Elegant Sidmouth

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DURING YOUR STAY...

Join us for a charming getaway to Sidmouth one of the most elegant resorts in south Devon, with unspoilt coast and countryside all around. We visit the Isle of Portland, West Bay, Bridport, Exeter, Tiverton and Weymouth, in our action packed itinerary.

Royal York & Faulkner Hotel *** Sidmouth

Across the road from the beach overlooking the sea, our well-appointed hotel is just a one minute walk from the shops and restaurants.

Day 1 – Enjoy a relaxing journey to Sidmouth, with comfort breaks en route.

Day 2 – We visit Exeter, one of the most attractive and historical cities in England. Perhaps visit the Underground Passages, the magnificent cathedral and the award‐winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Later, we head to Tiverton and cream tea at Bickleigh a Georgian water mill.

Day 3 – The lovely seaside town of Sidmouth is nestled beneath the majestic red cliffs of the Sid Valley. Spend your day at leisure, walk through the Final Day – After a wonderful stay we return home. beautiful gardens, or pop into the friendly shops.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Weymouth for free time, then drive to Portland to visit the famous l ighthouse and learn about the lighthouse and its keepers. If you manage to climb the 153 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with views over Dorset’s beautiful Jurassic Coast.

Day 5 (6 day tour only) – This morning we visit Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, which Alan Titchmarsh once described as “one of the finest gardens I have ever visited.” You can wander through the old kitchen garden before making your way to the valley garden, which has some of the most extensive gunnera plantings in England.

We return via West Bay and the vibrant market town of Bridport, both of which are familiar as the location for filming of TV’s Broadchurch.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4/5 nights half board Cream tea at Bickleigh Mill Excursions to Exeter, Tiverton, Weymouth & the Isle of Portland Visit to the Portland Bill Lighthouse Free time in Sidmouth *Visits to West Bay & Bridport *Admission into Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens *May & September departure only Tue 12 May

6 Days

Wed 15 July

5 Days

Fri 25 September

6 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Cornish Coast to Coast: Falmouth, The Eden Project & St Ives

St Ives, view from the harbour © Oscar Hill

Discover the beautiful South West Coast on our wonderful trip to Falmouth and the spectacular Eden Project. Sit back and enjoy stunning views as we visit Penzance, St Ives, Truro, St Austell and Land’s End.

Penmere Manor Hotel *** Falmouth

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to our Cornish resort, Falmouth.

Day 2 – Today we visit Penzance, the ‘end of the line’ with a chequered past of pirates and faded 19th century charm. Why not visit Chapel Street and its eclectic mix of quirky shops and houses.

This afternoon we visit Land’s End. Day 3 – Today, we have free time to explore Falmouth – a town with a fascinating maritime heritage. The deep-water port is famous for its oyster restaurants, cafés and small art galleries.

Just 1.2 miles from Falmouth town centre and harbour, our hotel offers stylish rooms, all are en suite with tea and coffee making facilities. Most rooms Day 4 – After breakfast we visit the incredible Eden Project, the largest indoor rainforest in look out over the gardens and woodlands. the world. Look out for the Canopy Walkway where you can stroll amongst the treetops and keep your eyes peeled for exotic fruits including bananas! Smell the sweet aromas of herbs in the air and wander along the Liquid Gold path admiring all of the brightly coloured flowers.

Day 5 – Our first stop is Truro, Britains most southerly city. Dominating the skyline is Truro Cathedral, in its shadow is a warren of compact streets home to a charming array of independent boutiques, bookshops and cafés. After some free time, we visit St Ives. Perhaps enjoy a short walk along Portminster Beach? If you look out to the bay, you’ll see the wonderful view of Godrevy Lighthouse, which was the inspiration for the Virginia Woolf novel ‘The Lighthouse.’

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Day 6 – Taking cherished memories with us, we return home.

INCLUDES 5 nights half board Excursions to Penzance, St Ives, Land’s End & Truro Admission into The Eden Project Free time in Falmouth Mon 14 September - Sat 19 September

6 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Cream of Cornwall: Lost Gardens of Heligan Magnolias & Falmouth

CLASS C UB Newquay Harbour © Pintailphotography

Cornwall is a land of rugged coastlines, shipwrecks, smugglers and folklore. We will stay in Newquay, Britain’s surfing capital and visit nautical Falmouth, ancient Truro, St Austell and the Lost Gardens of Heligan.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to our Newquay hotel, with comfort stops en route.

Barrowfield Hotel *** Newquay

Day 2 – This morning we travel to the charming fishing port of Mevagissey for free time. Later, we visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan, which was re-discovered in 1992 from under decades of tangled weeds. Here, we enjoy a traditional Cornish Cream Tea.

Ideally located just 200 yards from Tolcarne Beach, our hotel is a short 10-minute walk from Newquay town centre. There’s live entertainment every night and a spacious lounge to relax in.

Day 3 – Explore charming Newquay in your own time today. Located on Cornwall’s Atlantic Coast, Newquay was recently voted “one of the nation’s favourite seaside towns.” Perhaps take a brisk walk on the beach or head to Newquay Zoo, or the Blue Reef Aquarium.

Day 4 – Today we travel to the bustling sea INCLUDES port of Falmouth, then to Truro, Britains most southerly city. Its a great little place with a unique Club Class coach travel shopping experience. The impressive cathedral 4 nights half board with its gothic towers dominates the skyline.

Hotel entertainment every night Admission into the Lost Gardens of Heligan with Day 5 – After breakfast we travel to Exeter the a traditional Cornish Cream Tea beautiful Roman walled ‘capital’ of the West Country. After some free time we will retrace our Excursions to Mevagissey, Falmouth, Truro & Exeter Free time in Newquay footsteps home.

Thu 26 March - Mon 30 March

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details Seaview rooms available on request for a suppplement

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The English Riviera

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Featuring Dartmouth Round Robin Rail & Cruise

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Torquay Inner Harbor © Fotomicar

With award-winning beaches and stunning scenery, the English Riviera is the perfect place to visit. Based in Torquay we visit Totnes, Teignmouth, Exmouth and Paignton. Also included is a journey on the Dartmouth Steam Railway Round Robin an unmissable railway, riverboat and bus tour.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel, in glorious Devon.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Teignmouth, a pretty coastal town with Georgian buildings, long sandy beaches and fresh local seafood. Later, we visit Exmouth, one of the oldest and most picturesque seaside resorts in Devon. Enjoy the two miles of sandy beach perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Coppice Hotel *** Torquay

Day 3 – Enjoy Torquay at your leisure. The centre contains a pretty harbour lined with cafes, bars and restaurants, while nearby delightful gardens Our gorgeous Victorian hotel is a 7-minute walk from lead to the famous Princess Theatre, and the giant the beach. There are indoor and outdoor pools, a spa English Riviera Wheel that dominates the skyline. pool, sauna and gym. There’s a bar and restaurant Day 4 – Experience the award-winning Dartmouth with regular live cabaret and free Wi-Fi in public Round Robin tour, which includes a journey on areas. Guestrooms are en suite with tea and coffee Dartmouth Steam Railway, a river boat and a bus. making facilities.

It visits the quaint towns of Paignton, Dartmouth and Totnes.

Day 5 (8 day tour only) – We visit Buckland Abbey, a 700-year-old house noted for its connection with Sir Francis Drake. Next stop is Plymouth, Britain’s ‘Atlantic city’. On Plymouth Hoe Drake played bowls before sailing out to defeat the Spanish Armada. The Hoe is a perfect setting to relax and enjoy the view.

Day 6 (8 day tour only) – After breakfast we make the short trip to Babbacombe Model Village,

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with award-winning gardens showcasing hundreds of model scenes, vehicles and people. Later, we travel to the fishing town of Brixham, star of the TV series ‘Fish Town’. Perhaps find a nice spot where you can watch the boats and enjoy some of the most delicious seafood in England.

Day 7 (8 day tour only) – Enjoy another day at leisure in Torquay.

Final Day – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES 4/7 nights half board accommodation Hotel entertainment (in July) Free time in Torquay (in July) Excursions to Teignmouth & Exmouth Visits to Plymouth & Brixham (in September) Dartmouth Round Robin cruise, rail & scenic bus Admission into Buckland Abbey & Babbacombe Model Village (in September) Mon 20 July - Fri 24 July

5 Days

Mon 14 September - Mon 21 September

8 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Paignton & the Treats of Torbay

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Torbay Court Hotel *** Paignton Our family-run hotel is situated in a quiet area in the heart of Paignton. It is less than a 5-minute walk from the main seafront and features a large restaurant offering a full English breakfast each morning.

Paignton Harbour © Creativeoneuk

Day 1 – We travel to our Devon resort enjoying leisurely breaks throughout our journey.

Day 2 – We visit the picture-postcard village of Salcombe at Devon’s southern tip and the port of Brixham - star of the TV series ‘Fish Town.’

Day 3 – Explore Paignton at leisure today.

Day 4 – This morning we visit the traditional Regency seaside town of Dawlish. We suggest a visit the Town Brook to see if you can spot the famous black swans which can often be seen swimming in the gentle streams or nesting on the banks. After some free time, we spend the afternoon in the yachting haven and seaside resort of Teignmouth.

Day 5 – After breakfast we bid a fond farewell and begin our journey home.

Sat 27 June - Wed 1 July

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

South Coast Explorer Featuring Weymouth, Bournemouth & Thomas Hardy’s Wessex INCLUDES 4 nights half board Entertainment each evening at the hotel Excursions to Oxford, Swanage, Bournemouth & Pool Quay Full day excursion around Thomas Hardy’s Wessex with free time in Dorchester and a visit to Max Gate Free time in Weymouth

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Prince Regent Hotel ** Weymouth Purpose-built in a classic Georgian style, our hotel offers comfortable accommodation with evening entertainment in the beautiful ballroom and tea and coffee making facilities.

© Max Gate

Day 1 – Enjoy free time in Oxford before continuing to our hotel.

Day 2 – We visit the pretty Dorset resort of Swanage before an afternoon at leisure at the hotel.

Day 3 – After a relaxing morning we visit Bournemouth for free time, via Poole Quay – a large natural harbour where you can enjoy the treasures of the Old Town.

Day 4 – Today we explore Thomas Hardy’s ‘Wessex’ – the ancient Saxon site of the region near the south-west of England that was used in Hardy’s most famous novels. We enjoy free time in Dorchester and have included admission into Max Gate, an atmospheric home designed by Thomas Hardy, now in the care of the National Trust.

Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our journey home with comfort stops along the way.

Tue 25 February - Sat 29 February

Seaview twin and double rooms are available on request for a supplement

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5 days

Please see price booklet for details

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Weymouth & the Jurassic Coast Explorer THIS BREA

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Russell Hotel *** Weymouth Our hotel is situated on the glorious seasfront esplanade of Weymouth. Guestrooms include tea and coffee making facilities.

Weymouth lifting bridge and quayside © Allou

Day 1 – On the way to Weymouth we visit Winchester, the unspoilt cathedral city and former capital under King Alfred the Great. Walk the bustling streets and admire the 11th century cathedral and Great Hall, which housed the mysterious King Arthur’s Round Table, for 700 years.

Day 2 – This morning we head for Poole to take a fascinating Jurassic Coast cruise and journey through 185 million years of history with live commentary. A cream team is served on board.

Day 3 – Weymouth’s safe sandy beaches, rich heritage and coastline make it a favourite holiday destination. Today, you are free to explore the town in your own time.

Day 4 – We visit Bridport and the quaint harbour resort of West Bay, from here we continue to the historic coastal resort of Lyme Regis.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home making comfort breaks along the way.

Fri 3 July - Tue 7 July

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Brighton & the Enchanting Gardens of East Sussex INCLUDES 5 nights half board Admission into the National Trust properties Sheffield Park Garden & Batemans Excursions to Eastbourne, Lewes & Michelham Priory Free time in Brighton

The Old Ship Hotel **** Brighton This striking Georgian building is situated on the seafront a short walk from Brighton Palace Pier, and overlooks the beach. Bedrooms are equipped with tea and coffee making facilities.

Brighton Royal Pavilion © Fsjay

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to Brighton with comfort breaks along the way.

Day 2 – We visit the magnificent Sheffield Park Gardens, a horticultural work of art formed through centuries of landscape design, with influences of Capability Brown and Humphry Repton. After some time to explore and enjoy we visit the Saxon town of Lewes.

Day 3 – Explore Brighton in your own time today.

Day 4 – We travel to Batemans, the family home of Rudyard Kipling. Now owned by the National Trust, the house has remained untouched and as if the Kipling family have just gone out for the day.

Day 5 – Enjoy a relaxing morning in Eastbourne. Later this afternoon we will visit nearby Michelham Mon 8 June - Sat 13 June Priory with England’s longest medieval water-filled moat.

Please see price booklet for details Day 6 – We retrace our footsteps home.

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6 Days

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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The Beautiful South: Eastbourne, Beachy Head & Bluebell Line Railway

Beachy Head, Eastbourne © Aiselin82

Enjoy the fresh sea air and traditional seaside atmosphere on our getaway to the beautiful south. Eastbourne, famous for its flower gardens, pebble beaches and iconic chalk sea cliffs is the ideal base for our great holiday.

We will see the best the East Sussex coast has to offer visiting Brighton, Hastings and Worthing, and enjoying ancient castles and beautiful gardens.

Cumberland Hotel *** Eastbourne

Situated in a whitewashed 19th century building opposite Eastbourne’s seafront our hotel has comfortable bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Many have sea views.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to Eastbourne, with comfort stops en route.

Day 2 – We begin our journey at Beachy Head, famous for the best views around. After a photo opportunity we continue our scenic journey along the coast towards Brighton. We suggest visiting The Royal Pavilion, Britain’s most excentric palace, and perhaps The Lanes, the quirky shopping alleys. This afternoon we visit the traditional seaside town of Worthing, where we will spend the remainder of the day.

Day 3 – Today you are free to explore as much (or as little) of Eastbourne as you like. Located on the seafront overlooking the famous flower decked promenade bandstand and beautiful Victorian pier, our hotel is located perfectly to help you get the most out of your free day. The Eastbourne Lifeboat Museum and the Winter Gardens are a leisurely walk away or perhaps you’d prefer Eastbourne’s Miniature Steam Railway.

Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Herstmonceux Castle, Gardens & Grounds. Set within 300‐acres of carefully managed woodland with themed formal gardens, this 15th century moated castle embodies the history of medieval England and the romance of renaissance Europe. Afterwards, we visit Hastings, home to the largest beach‐ launched fishing fleet in Europe and where the

remains of the first castle in England to be built by William the Conqueror is preserved.

Day 5 – All aboard! Re‐visit the romantic age of the steam engine with a return journey on the Bluebell Line Railway.

One of the first preserved heritage lines in the country and home to one of the finest collections of vintage steam locomotives from British Railways. We travel to Borde Hill Gardens, where you can enjoy a little free time. Borde Hill is a stunningly beautiful and botanically rich heritage garden in the heart of Sussex.

Day 6 – We travel home with a couple of refreshment stops en route.

INCLUDES 5 nights half board Journey on the Bluebell Line Railway Free time in Eastbourne Visits to Beachy Head, Brighton, Worthing & Hastings Admission into Herstmonceux Castle & Borde Hill Gardens Mon 4 May - Sat 9 May

6 Days

Sat 5 September -Thu 10 September

6 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Worthing © Ianwool

Explore quintessentially English seaside towns on our holiday based in Worthing, West Sussex. We will visit Arundel, Bognor Regis, Littlehampton and Chichester and enjoy excursions to Amberley Museum and the West Dean Gardens.

Chatsworth Hotel *** Worthing

Superbly situated within Worthing town centre, the 19th-century Chatsworth Hotel is a family-run hotel which overlooks Steyne Gardens. Each classically furnished room has en suite facilities, free Wi-Fi, internet access and a Freeview TV. Please note: The hotel has a limited number of accessible rooms for anyone with mobility issues.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel south to the seaside resort of Worthing with comfort stops on the way.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the historic market town of Arundel, home to a gothic cathedral and medieval castle. From here we continue to Amberley Museum in the South Downs National Park, where you can explore over 150 years of Sussex history, including crafts and a narrow-gauge steam railway.

Day 3 – Today you can discover Worthing at your own pace. Our hotel is close to the promenade and only minutes from the delightful Pier. There is a thriving town centre with plenty of shops, pretty cafés and entertainment.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Bognor Regis, officially the UK’s sunniest town, for free time.

The promenade is flat and stretches for 2.5 miles, making it ideal for a stroll. Alternatively head to Hotham Park, situated in the centre of Bognor Regis, which has a boating lake, miniature railway, beautiful lawns and a mini golf course. This afternoon we take you to Littlehampton, home to two award-winning beaches and the beautiful River Arun.

Day 5 – Enjoy a visit to Chichester, a ‘mecca’ for sailing enthusiasts and nearby West Dean Gardens, one of the greatest restored gardens where we include a cream tea.

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Day 6 – We retrace our footsteps home, enjoying comfort breaks along the way.

INCLUDES 5 nights half board Hotel entertainment on 3 nights Excursions to Arundel, Bognor Regis, Littlehampton & Chichester Visit to Amberley Museum & West Dean Gardens with a cream tea Free time in Worthing Sun 13 September - Fri 18 September

6 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Isle of Wight Delights: Mottistone Manor Garden & The Needles

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We are delighted to return to 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.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Sit back, relax and enjoy our journey by coach and ferry to the Isle of Wight with comfort breaks on the way.

Day 2 – Our first stop today is neighbouring Shanklin, where over 70% of the area has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Trouville Hotel *** Sandown* Beauty. We then travel to the village of Godshill, which boasts some of the oldest architecture on the Island. Enjoy the delightful medieval church, Situated on Sandown’s seafront, our hotel is the ideal charming thatched-roof cottages and winding location for an Isle of Wight Break. main-street lined with traditional tearooms. This afternoon we enjoy free time in Ventnor, one of Britain’s most famous Victorian health resorts.

Wight Bay Hotel *** Sandown (August) Our family-friendly hotel is just 3 minutes’ stroll from Sandown Pier and the sandy beach. The Hotel has a bar and restaurant, guestrooms include tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure. Our resort has a long flat esplanade, traditional amusements include arcade games, bowls and crazy golf.

There are cafés, pubs and shops aplenty.

Day 4 – This morning we travel to The Needles, the islands most famous landmark. After a photo opportunity, we continue to Yarmouth, the historic port with some of the oldest architecture on the island. In the afternoon we visit the National Trust’s Mottistone Manor Garden, a magical place full of surprises. including shrub-filled banks, hidden pathways and colourful herbaceous borders.

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. Victoria’s private beach is a pleasant 20-minute stroll from the Palace. This afternoon we visit Cowes for free time.

Day 6 (7 day tour only) – This morning we travel to Ryde, the largest town on the Isle of Wight for free time. Later, we head to Newport where you can enjoy the rest of the afternoon. Located in the centre of the island, the town centres on two elegant squares with Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Final Day – We begin our journey home.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel (July only) Return ferry travel Half board accommodation Free time in Sandown Excursions to Shanklin, Godshill, Ventnor, Needles, Yarmouth & Cowes Admission to Mottistone Gardens Free time in Sandown Visits to Ryde & Newport (July only) Admission to Osbourne House (May & July only) Sat 9 May - Thu 14 May*

6 Days

Mon 27 July - Sun 2 August

7 Days

Thu 24 September - Mon 28 September*

5 Days

Day 5 (6 + 7 day tours only) – We visit Queen Victoria’s Osborne House a seaside palace which Please see price booklet for details

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Bournemouth & A Taste of the Isle of Wight

CLASS C UB The Needles, Isle Of Wight © Manaemedia

We invite you to enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery on our coastal adventure to Bournemouth and the Isle of Wight. Staying in the sunny resort of Bournemouth, we have included a day excursion across to the Isle with admission to Queen Victoria’s Osborne House and visits to Poole, Wareham and Lyndhurst.

Royal Bath Hotel & Spa **** Bournemouth Opened on Queen Victoria’s coronation day in June 1838, the Royal Bath Hotel & Spa was the first hotel in Bournemouth! Just moments from the seafront, this classically styled hotel has well-equipped rooms each including tea and coffee making facilities.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel to our glorious Dorset resort with comfort breaks along the way.

Day 2 – Our day begins in Poole, a bustling resort in the east of Dorset, known for being Europe’s largest natural harbour, with Blue Flag beaches and historic old town. After some free time, we visit the pretty riverside town of Wareham.

Day 3 – A full day excursion today takes us over to the Isle of Wight. Throughout the day we will visit East Cowes, the traditional seaside resort of Ventnor and Ryde, the largest town on the island.

Later, we will visit Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s family home and one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island.

Day 7 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

Day 4 – On your free day in Bournemouth why not start with an open-top bus tour? It’s the best way INCLUDES to see everything, then decide what to go back to, the great beaches, shopping, amusements or Club Class coach travel eateries.

6 nights half board Excursions to Poole, Wareham, Weymouth Day 5 – We visit Weymouth, as one of our most & Lyndhurst beautiful seaside resorts, it’s an ideal destination Return ferry sailings to spend a couple of hours. This afternoon we Full day visit to the Isle of Wight travel to Lulworth Cove, the beautiful white pebble Admission into Osborne House beaches and blue crystal waters make it a popular Free time in Bournemouth destination all year round.

Day 6 – After a leisurely morning we travel to Lyndhurst for free time. Known as the capital

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of the New Forest, highlights include the New Forest Heritage Centre, which provides a unique guide into the forest’s history and heritage. If you fancy something sweet, you’ll find a variety of cosy tea rooms, cafés and ice cream parlours.

Sat 13 June - Fri 19 June

7 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Bournemouth, Poole & the Glorious New Forest

Bournemouth © Feryjory

DURING YOUR STAY...

Enjoy some of the most beautiful coastal scenery on our Dorset adventure, explore the sandy beaches of Bournemouth and Weymouth, and enjoy a delicious cream tea at the peaceful Blue Pool Tea House, a unique attraction on the Isle of Purbeck.

Day 1 – On our way to Bournemouth, we enjoy a scenic drive through the New Forest National Park, known for its heathlands, forest trails and native ponies. Relaxing on a coach is a great way to explore this picturesque area of the country before arriving at our hotel later this afternoon.

Day 2 – This morning we travel to Poole, home to the golden beaches of Sandbanks and Brownsea Island owned by the National Trust. Afterwards, we continue to Blue Pool in Wareham where we enjoy a delicious cream tea together!

Royal Bath Hotel & Spa **** Bournemouth Opened on Queen Victoria’s coronation day in June 1838, the Royal Bath Hotel & Spa was the first hotel in Bournemouth! Just moments from the seafront, this classically styled hotel has well-equipped rooms each including tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 3 – Day at leisure in Bournemouth. After breakfast, perhaps take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the beautiful coastline, or head to the pier and, for a small fee, take a journey on the land train to Boscombe Chine Gardens. These beautiful gardens are situated on the beachfront.

Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Weymouth for free time. With beautiful golden sands – regularly recognised as one of the top ten beach destinations in Europe – sprinkled with deckchairs, safe shallow waters and a pretty harbourside, Weymouth is a lovely place to spend the day. On our return to the hotel we will make a short stop at Lulworth Cove.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board Admission into Blue Pool with a cream tea Excursion to Weymouth & Poole Scenic drive through the New Forest Free time in Bournemouth Mon 7 September - Fri 11 September

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Enchanting Devon: Ilfracombe, Bideford & A Wildlife Cruise

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CLASS C UB An aerial view of Ilfracombe Harbour from the South West Coast Path © Peter Llewellyn

Considered by many as the perfect holiday destination, enchanting Devon has lots to offer visitors all year round. Explore national parks, enjoy sandy beaches and picturesque coastal scenery and sightsee some fascinating animals in their natural habitat on a spectacular wildlife cruise.

Durrant House Hotel *** Bideford

Located on the outskirts of the historic port of Bideford, our hotel features views over the Torridge Estuary and is within easy reach of the area’s sandy beaches. Facilities include a sauna and outdoor pool.

Guestrooms have tea and coffee making facilities.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Enjoy a relaxing journey to Devon with comfort stops en route.

Day 2 – We travel to Ilfracombe for free time before a journey on the Ilfracombe Princess for a wonderful wildlife cruise. We will quietly sail past Brandy Cove, Breakneck Point, Fresh Waterfall, Lee Village, Bull Point Lighthouse, Rockham Bay and Morte Stone before passing into Woolacombe Bay with a view of Baggy Point, Croyde Bay, Barnstaple Bay, Hartland Point and Lundy Island.* Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Bideford. Set on the west bank of the River Torridge, Bideford is an historic harbour town filled with independent shops, quaint tea rooms and a riverside quay.

Day 4 – Explore the dramatic scenery of Dartmoor with visits to the villages of Bovey Tracey and Princetown where you will have the opportunity to visit the National Park Visitors Centre, where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle stayed and started writing his famous Sherlock Holmes story The Hound of the Baskervilles. We also visit Buckfast Abbey where a community of Benedictine monks live self-sufficiantly.

Day 5 (8 day tour only) – This morning we visit Dartington Crystal, the UK’s only remaining glass factory! Here, we have arranged a unique and fascinating experience where you can watch skilled glass makers in action on the

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factory floor, safely from the viewing areas. On our return to our hotel we visit RHS Garden Rosemoor, an enchanting 65-acre garden.

Day 6 (8 day tour only) – After breakfast we cross the border into Cornwall to visit Bude, a laid-back traditional seaside resort with many independently owned shops and restaurants for you to visit.

Day 7 (8 day tour only) – Today we visit the picturesque fishing village of Clovelly, once owned by the Queen of England. Clinging to a 400-foot cliff, it has no vehicular traffic, just donkeys and sledges and its flower-strewn cottages “tumble like a waterfall” down to the ancient fishing harbour.

Final Day – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4/7 nights half board accommodation Excursion to Ilfracombe with wildlife cruise Free time in Bideford Visits to Buckfast Abbey Tour of Dartmoor with visits to Bovey Tracey & Princetown Visits to Dartington Crystal, Clovelly Village, RHS Garden Rosemoor & Bude (August only) Fri 5 June - Tue 9 June

8 Days

Mon 10 August - Mon 17 August

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details *Animal sightings cannot be guaranteed.

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Dorset Coast Delights: Weymouth, Sidmouth & Sherborne Castle THIS BREA

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Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Excursions to Bath, Poole & Corfe Castle Admission into Sherborne Castle with guided tour Cream tea at Burrow Farm Gardens Free time in Weymouth

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Crown Hotel ** Weymouth Our traditional hotel offers comfortable accommodation, a restaurant and bar and is a leisurely walk away from the beach.

Weymouth © Tony Wiles

Day 1 – We enjoy some free time in Bath, best known for its natural hot springs and 18th century Georgian architecture. Later, we continue to our hotel. This evening the area around our hotel comes alive with live musical entertainment.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Sherborne Castle, where we have arranged a private guided tour, so you can view the magnificent staterooms with nationally important collections of art, furniture and porcelain whilst discovering more about its turbulent past. After some free time, we travel to Burrow Farm Gardens for a delicious Devon cream tea featuring homemade scones.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Weymouth, one of the easiest seaside resorts to explore on foot.

Day 4 – A morning excursion to Poole. After free time, we take the Sandbanks ferry service across to the Isle of Purbeck and visit the unique village of Corfe Castle. Built almost completely from the local grey Purbeck limestone the village comprises of two main streets and a small collection of shops.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

Mon 31 August - Fri 4 September

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

North Devon Explorer

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Club Class Coach travel 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast Excursions to Bude, Appledore, Barnstaple & Ilfracombe Admission to Clovelly Free time in Bideford

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Durrant House Hotel *** Bideford With views over the River Torridge Estuary, our hotel is just a 5 minute drive from Bideford town centre. Rooms have TV, tea and coffee making facilities and seating area.

Clovelly harbour © hardyuno

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to the Durrant House Hotel in Bideford.

Day 2 – After a morning visit to picturesque Bude we visit nearby Clovelly this afternoon. This unique village is one of the most famous in the world.

Day 3 – This morning we visit Appledore for free time before enjoying an afternoon at leisure.

Day 4 – After a relaxing morning at our hotel, we visit the beautiful seaside resort of Ilfracombe.

This picturesque harbour town is steeped in maritime history and remains one of the key working fishing ports in North Devon.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

Mon 4 May - Fri 8 May

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NEW Weston-super-Mare & Somerset Summer Splendour Featuring West Somerset Railway & Cheddar Gorge

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INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Evening entertainment Excursions to Bath, Glastonbury, Wells, Minehead & Dunster Scenic drive through Cheddar Gorge Free time in Weston-super-Mare Journey on the West Somerset Railway

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New Ocean Hotel *** Weston-super-Mare Featuring a garden and bar, as well as a restaurant, our hotel in Weston-super-Mare, provides comfortable accommodation with evening entertainment and Wi-Fi.

Weston-Super-Mare © Amanda Lewis

Day 1 – We head to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath before continuing to Weston-super-Mare.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the ancient market town of Glastonbury, before enjoying a lunchtime visit to Wells, England’s smallest city home to Vicar’s Close, the oldest medieval street in Europe. We return via a drive through the spectacular Cheddar Gorge.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Weston‐super‐Mare.

Day 4 – This morning we have arranged a journey on the West Somerset Railway to Minehead – the longest heritage railway in England! After some free time in the traditional seaside resort, we visit the medieval village of Dunster before returning to our hotel.

Day 5 – After a relaxing morning we begin our homeward journey.

Mon 22 June - Fri 26 June

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Lytham St Annes, The Lakes & Blackpool Illuminations

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INCLUDES 3 nights half board Excursions to Morecambe & Bowness-on-Windermere with a cruise Drive through the Blackpool illuminations

Lindum Hotel *** Lytham st Annes

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On the seafront of Lytham St Annes just opposite the promenade, our hotel offers comfortable accommodation, serves home-cooked meals, and is a 5-minute walk from St Anne’s Edwardian centre.

Blackpool Tower © Poppy Pixels

Day 1 – Enjoy the journey to Lytham St Annes with comfort stops.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Morecambe for free time before travelling to Bowness-onWindermere for a cruise on the tranquil Lake Windermere. After a little time to explore the town, we return to our hotel.

Day 3 – After a leisurely day and an early dinner, this evening we will drive into neighbouring Blackpool for an evening drive through the 6 miles of dazzling “artificial sunlight” as over a million lamps, lasers and light bulbs create the world-renowned Blackpool illuminations!

Day 4 – After breakfast we return home.

Fri 25 September - Mon 28 September

4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Yorkshire Gold Coast & Country

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© Scarborough Marina

Yorkshire has one of the most beautiful and best‐loved coastlines in Britain, completely unique with its own charisma and allure. On our captivating break we explore some of the prettiest resorts, including Scarborough, Bridlington and Filey.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – This afternoon, we enjoy a couple of hours in the historic market town of Beverley en route to our hotel in Scarborough.

Day 2 – We begin by visiting Bridlington, with its award‐winning promenades and historic harbour. Afterwards, we take you to nearby Esplanade Hotel *** Scarborough Filey, a traditional seaside resort offering a gentle atmosphere with luscious parks and gardens to explore. On our way back we’ll take in South Cliff Our hotel overlooks Scarborough harbour and the Italian Gardens in Scarborough, featured in the South Bay beach. Rooms have tea and coffee making ITV drama series ‘The Royal’. facilties, hairdryer and TV. Day 3 – Enjoy Scarborough at your own pace today. Our hotel is a 20-minute stroll to the lively town centre and the sandy South Bay beach. A steep walk over the headland will reward you with spectacular views of the surrounding coast, the old town area and the North Bay beach. You will have your choice of charming cafes, seafood restaurants and traditional seaside pubs to help make a day to remember.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Nunnington Hall, a beautiful Elizabethan manor house beside the peaceful River Rye. Before returning to our hotel, we will also visit Peasholm Park Gardens, an oriental themed park that offers a beautiful system of streams and waterfalls. The park is also home to the world-famous Naval Warfare – a unique miniature sea battle that has been shown on television screens across the globe!

Day 5 – After breakfast we travel to York, historical capital of the north, with a wealth of Viking and Roman history.

Stroll along the banks of the River Ouse – perhaps treat yourself to a river cruise, enjoy the many fascinating museums, York Dungeons, The Jorvik Centre and the magnificent York Minster. Don’t miss York Chocolate Story, which tells the tale of local chocolatier Rowntree, inventor of the Kit Kat & Chocolate Orange.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment on 2 nights Excursions to Beverley, Bridlington, Filey & York Visit to the South Cliff Italian Gardens & Peasholm Park Gardens (in Scarborough) Admission into Nunnington Hall (National Trust) Free time in Scarborough Mon 15 June -Fri 19 June

5 Days

Mon 3 August - Fri 7 August

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Northumberland Coast: Holy Isle, Durham & Bamburgh Castle

Durham Cathedral above the River Wear © Daverhead

Sweeping landscapes and areas of outstanding natural beauty form the background for our tour of Northumberland’s lovely countryside and miles of heritage coastlines. We have included excursions to the iconic Bamburgh Castle, Washington Old Hall and Harrogate, as well as visits to Durham and York to ensure you see the best of the Northumberland Coast.

Millennium Copthorne Hotel **** Newcastle Situated overlooking the River Tyne, our hotel offers an outdoor terrace which provides panoramic river views for guests to enjoy. Guestrooms are modern and fully equipped.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Before arriving in Newcastle, we enjoy free time in the Yorkshire spa town of Harrogate. Home to historic buildings and decorative gardens, it is one of the most elegant destinations in the north of England.

Day 2 – Today we take a trip over the famous causeway to the Holy Isle of Lindisfarne.* Lying just off the Northumberland coast, the Holy Island (as seen on Robson Green’s Tales from Northumberland) is a picturesque, unspoilt village cut off twice a day from the rest of the world by the tide. We also visit the nearby Bamburgh Castle, one of the largest inhabited castles in the country. *The exact order of the day will depend on tidal times.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Newcastle. As our hotel is located a short walk from the castle, why not explore this imposing Norman fortress which provides beautiful views over the city and reveals the story of how Newcastle began.

Day 4 – We visit Durham, home to one of the most recognisable landmarks in the UK, the majestic Durham Cathedral, and the adjacent Durham Castle. Enjoy free time to explore the city. Later, we travel to Washington Old Hall, a manor house associated with the family of George Washington, first president of the United States.

Day 5 – We travel to historic York. This beautifully preserved city is a wonderful place to enjoy a

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couple of hours, with unique surroundings and a warm ambience. Why not enjoy a cup of tea (or coffee) in one of the cosy cafés around the city before we return home.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board Admission into Bamburgh Castle & Washington Old Hall Excursions to Harrogate, Durham, York & Lindisfarne Free time in Newcastle Sun 24 May - Thu 28 May

5 Days

Mon 28 September - Fri 2 October

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Pembrokeshire Coast: St David’s, Saundersfoot & the Gower Peninsula

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Discover the Pembrokeshire coast – Britain’s only coastal National Park. Wild, gorgeous and beautifully cared for, on our break you will uncover this remote but picturesque corner of Britain with visits to Pembroke, St David’s and Mumbles, as well as entrance into the Gower Heritage Centre for a guided tour and a cream tea.

Merlewood Hotel ** Saundersfoot Situated on the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast, our hotel is a 10-minute walk from Saundersfoot Harbour, with impressive sea views. There is a swimming pool and restaurant, guestrooms are en and have tea and coffee facilities.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we take you to the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast with comfort stops en route.

Day 2 – This morning we visit the walled town of Pembroke, famous for its Norman castle and birthplace of Henry VII, founder of the Tudor dynasty. After some free time, we travel to St David’s, the UK’s smallest city. Perhaps visit the 12th century cathedral, and learn all about the history of St David’s and visit the impressive Treasury collection.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time to explore Saundersfoot.

The sandy beaches are just a 5-minute walk away from our hotel and the town centre is a leisurely 10-minute walk.

Day 4 – We travel to Mumbles, which marks the beginning of the Gower Peninsula’s coastline and is home to some world‐class ice cream – but don’t just take our word for it! This afternoon we take you to the Gower Heritage Centre where we will be joined by a knowledgeable guide who will take us on a guided tour of the Gower Peninsula from the comfort of our coach. Afterwards, we will return to the centre to enjoy a traditional cream tea.

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Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our journey back home.

Please see price booklet for details Limited number of seaview rooms available on request at a supplement

Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Excursions to Pembroke, St. David’s & Mumbles Admission into Gower Heritage Centre for a tour and cream tea Free time in Saundersfoot Mon 6 April - Fri 10 April

5 Days

Mon 14 September - Fri 18 September

5 Days

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Potters Resort: NEW

Award-Winning 5* Holiday Village

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© Potters Resort

DURING YOUR STAY...

Potters Resort is a superb, five-star allinclusive resort situated near Great Yarmouth on the Norfolk coast. Set within 65 acres and with access to its own private beach, Potters is renowned for its extensive leisure facilities, superb entertainment, excellent food and warm welcome.

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.

Day 1 – Enjoy 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) from the two restaurants, plus award-winning evening entertainment, activities and most of the facilities. On the July date we start the holiday in style with a 5-course dinner and wine followed by fabulous West End style show entertainment.

Day 2 – After a leisurely morning we visit the nearby seaside resort of Great Yarmouth. With beautiful beaches and fantastic attractions, you’ll be spoiled for entertainment choice.

Day 3 – There’s always plenty to enjoy at Potters Final Day – We retrace our footsteps home, with comfort stops along the way.

Resort, and today you can do as much or as little as you like. With a full daytime activity INCLUDES programme of quizzes, games and dance classes to arts and crafts, there’s swimming pools and a 4/5 nights full board accommodation choice of bars. In the evenings the resort really (4 meals per day: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, midnight dish) comes alive with Potters Theatre Company taking Sunday night showtime with 5-course dinner to the state-of-the-art Atlas Theatre Stage! & wine (July only) Live evening entertainment every evening Day 4 – This morning we take you to Wroxham.

Excursion to Norwich (July only) Situated in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, here Excursions to Kings Lynn, Great Yarmouth & Wroxham you can enjoy the many tea rooms and gift shops Free time in resort that are located along the river.

Day 5 (6 day tour only) – After a morning at leisure, we visit Norwich for free time

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Sun 12 July - Fri 17 July

6 Days

Mon 19 October - Fri 23 October

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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12/09/2019 10:32:37

Royal Norfolk Coast & Country NEW

Featuring Cromer Crab Festival

© Sandringham Estate

Explore picturesque north Norfolk on our fascinating break, which features an actionpacked itinerary with beautiful countryside, bustling market towns and some of Britain’s best attractions including the annual Crab & Lobster Festival. We’ve also included admission to Sandringham House and Gardens and a journey on the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway.

Le Strange Arms Hotel **** Hunstanton The warmly decorated bedrooms offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and desks, plus tea and coffeemaking equipment. General amenities include a casual bar, a pub and a cosy restaurant with sea views. Hotel lawns lead down to a private sandy beach.

A lift serves some bedrooms

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel to Hunstanton via the Lincolnshire market town of Spalding.

Day 2 – This afternoon we visit Sandringham Estate, the much-loved country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen. Set in 24-hectares of stunning gardens and woodland, the house is perhaps the most famous stately home in Norfolk.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time to explore the elegant resort of Hunstanton, renowned for its unique striped cliffs and magnificent sunsets, made special by its position as the only west-facing resort on the east coast.

Day 4 – After breakfast we visit the neighbouring coastal resorts of Cromer and Sheringham for the annual Crab and Lobster Festival, a lively celebration of the best of the culinary delights on the north Norfolk coast. With over 50 local craft, food and drink stalls, cookery demonstrations and fun entertainment, today is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of your holiday.

Day 5 – This morning we visit Burnham Market regarded as north Norfolk’s loveliest village, popular with the rich and famous, not to mention the Royals, evidence of which can be seen by the “By Royal Appointment” signs above some of the doorways of the array of independent shops.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in resort.

Day 6 – We visit the charming seaside resort of Wellsnext-the-Sea. After some free time, we board the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway, the world’s smallest public railway, for a nostalgic journey amidst beautiful countryside. We are accompanied by the unmistakable sound and smell of steam en route to Walsingham, one of the most extraordinary villages in the British Isles. Steeped in history with its collection of rare half-timbered medieval buildings and considered a holy pilgrimage place for more than 1,000 years. There will be free time to explore the village before returning to the hotel.

Day 7 – This morning we pay a short visit to Norfolk Lavender before we begin our journey home with comfort stops on the way.

INCLUDES 6 nights half board Welcome drink on arrival Excursions to Spalding, Burnham Market, Wells-next-the-Sea, Walsingham & Norfolk Lavender Visit to the annual Crab & Lobster Festival at Cromer & Sheringham Admission into the Sandringham House & Gardens Journey on the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway Wed 13 May - Tue 19 May Please see price booklet for details

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7 Days

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Norfolk Coast & Broads

Featuring Wroxham Cruise & Bressingham Steam & Gardens

Norfolk Broads © Steve_Bramall

DURING YOUR STAY...

Explore with us the Broads National Park ‘where big sky meets endless horizons.’

With a cruise on the Broads and visits to Cambridge, Cromer and Great Yarmouth an action-packed adventure awaits you.

Day 1 – Today we visit Cambridge, located on the River Cam. Since 1209 the city has been associated with its magnificent colleges and universities. After some free time, we continue to our hotel in Great Yarmouth.

Day 2 – We spend the morning in Cromer, a traditional seaside town and holiday resort bursting with entertainment and attractions.

Prom Hotel **** Great Yarmouth Afterwards we visit Wroxham where we take a Broads cruise, with commentary to discover more of the Norfolk Broads including Salhouse Our hotel is just a two-minute walk from the beach in Broad and Horning Reach.

Great Yarmouth. Bedrooms have been decorated to a high standard and many of them have views of the Day 3 – We visit Bressingham Gardens & Steam Museum this morning, where we have included seafront and famous Golden Mile. admission into the gardens and museum, along with unlimited journeys on the narrow-gauge railway. We enjoy the remainder of the day in Great Yarmouth.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES 3 nights half board Excursions to Cambridge, Cromer & Wroxham Visit to Bressingham Steam & Gardens Museum Norfolk Broads cruise Free time in Great Yarmouth Fri 3 July - Mon 6 July

4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Margate & The East Kent Coast

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Smiling couple holding hands on a beach © Dmbaker

Margate is one of the nation’s most popular seaside resorts and fizzes with traditional holiday-town charms, a cool café culture and tempting retro shops! On our seaside escape, we also include excursions to Ramsgate, Folkestone & Canterbury.

Smith’s Court Hotel *** Cliftonville Overlooking the sea our traditional hotel is a 3-minute walk from the seafront. Rooms have TVs, and tea and coffee making facilities. For dining there’s an airy conservatory restaurant with marble floors and a seaview balcony offering locally sourced cuisine.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Enjoy a relaxing journey to our hotel near Margate, with comfort breaks en route.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Whitstable a town full of charm with a strong maritime history.

The town centre shops, restaurants and bars are all within easy walking distance from the beach and fish market. Later, we return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Day 3 – Following a leisurely morning, this afternoon we enjoy a trip to Broadstairs, Charles Dickens’ favourite holiday spot! Here you can explore a wealth of Dickens memorabilia and prints at the Dickens House Museum. Why not take a leisurely walk along one of Broadstairs’ seven sand-filled beaches?

Day 4 – We travel to Canterbury for free time.

Here you can pay your respects at the war memorial before visiting the magnificent cathedral, seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the centre point of any visit. The cathedral dates-back to 597AD and has been the destination of pilgrims from across the world since the murder of Thomas Becket in 1170.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment Excursions to Whitstable, Broadstairs & Canterbury Free time in Margate Mon 4 May - Fri 8 May

5 Days

Mon 19 October - Fri 23 October

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire Featuring Strathspey Steam Railway

Cairngorms National Park © Ossiridian

Escape on our stunning break to the Highlands of Perthshire, where we will explore some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery, together with the natural wildlife found in Cairngorms National Park and Branklyn Gardens. We will also enjoy a stunning journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway, and visit Moffat, Stirling and Perth.

Fishers Hotel *** Pitlochry Centrally located in the beautiful Victorian town of Pitlochry, our hotel offers spacious bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Guests will enjoy hearty evening meals in the Kingfisher Bar, which hosts regular live music nights. There is also a cosy lounge with real log fires and garden views.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we take you to Moffat, an attractive town and conservation area with a rich heritage and history. After free time, we continue to our hotel in the pretty town of Pitlochry.

Day 2 – We begin with a scenic drive through Cairngorms National Park – twice the size of the Lake District – which has more mountains, forest paths, rivers, lochs, and wildlife hotspots than you can possibly imagine! We travel on to Aviemore, where we have arranged a journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway. Step back in time and experience steam train travel at its best as we glide through 10-miles of breathtaking scenery. During our journey we will enjoy a traditional Scottish shortbread and a hot drink served on board.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time today in Pitlochry, one of Scotland’s most beautiful and vibrant destinations. Perhaps enjoy a walk in to town to explore the shops, cafés, restaurants and gift shops.

Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Stirling for free time. Explore the Royal history at Stirling Castle and visit the National Wallace Monument, which commemorates the life of Sir William Wallace.

Day 5 – This morning we visit Branklyn Gardens, cared for by the National Trust for Scotland.

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Discover this enchanting 2‐acre hillside garden created in the 1920s. A haven of peace and tranquility, it contains a wonderful collection of rare species, exotic plants and curious cultivars for you to spot. Afterwards, we take you the short distance to Perth. Beautifully situated on the banks of the River Tay, Perth boasts plenty of ancient monuments and stylish shopping.

Day 6 – After breakfast we pay a brief visit The Kelpies – the 100ft high horse heads are the world’s largest equine sculptures. Afterwards we continue our journey home.

INCLUDES 5 nights half board Excursions to Moffat, Stirling, Perth & The Kelpies Scenic drive through the Cairngorms National Park Journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway with traditional Scottish shortbread & hot drink on board Admission into Branklyn Gardens Free time in Pitlochry Mon 15 June - Sat 20 June

6 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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12/09/2019 10:32:51

Llandudno, Snowdon Mountain Railway & Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

© Snowdon Mountain Railway

Discover dramatic landscapes and epic shores and prepare to fall in love with Wales! Experience a unique journey on the Snowdon Mountain Railway as it travels to the summit of Mount Snowdon, sail across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and visit the idyllic towns of Llandudno, Conwy, Betws‐y‐Coed and Llanberis.

Beaufort Park Hotel *** Mold

Set in the beautiful north Welsh countryside, our hotel is independently run and situated close to the historic market town of Mold. It offers comfortable bedrooms, a restaurant and a relaxed bar.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Our journey takes us to Trevor, where we have arranged a boat trip across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning views as you travel serenely over Thomas Telford’s famous water bridge. After this, we continue our journey to our hotel.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Llandudno.

Developed as an upmarket holiday town for its Edwardian and Victorian visitors, Llandudno has been graced with some of the most elegant seaside architecture in Britain. Later, we visit Conwy, designated as World Heritage Site most famous for its magnificent 13th century castle and walls.

Day 5 – We visit Chester for free time before returning home. Combining old‐timbered houses, medieval Roman walls and goblin towers. Chester is one of Britain’s most popular cities.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Mold, a traditional town that holds street markets every Wednesday.

Standing proudly above the town, is the historic INCLUDES church of St Mary’s, rebuilt by Margaret Beaufort in honour of her son Henry VII, the first Tudor 4 nights half board king of England.

Journey on the Snowdon Mountain Railway Cruise on the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to Betws-yExcursions to Llandudno, Conwy, Coed, known as ‘the gateway to Snowdonia’.

Betws-Y-Coed, Llanberis & Chester This magical setting has a distinctly Alpine feel Free time in Mold thanks to the Gwydyr Forest that surrounds it.

Afterwards, we travel to Llanberis to enjoy a journey on the Snowdon Mountain Railway up to Mon 1 June - Fri 5 June 5 Days the summit where you’ll enjoy incredible scenery Mon 21 September - Fri 25 September 5 Days and awe‐inspiring views.

Please see price booklet for details

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Trails, Rails & St David’s Day in Wales NEW

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“Croeso I Gymru” Welcome to Wales! Don your daffodils and mark St David’s Day on our brand-new break to Wales! Offering some of the most stunning natural and exciting landscapes in Britain, our break has been carefully planned, starting with visits to Llandudno, Caernarfon and Conwy and ending with a stunning journey on the Llanberis Lake Railway.

Celtic Royal Hotel *** Caernarfon

Our hotel is situated in Caernarfon centre, just a 10-minute walk from the harbour. The bright and airy bedrooms each have a cosy seating area and all rooms feature tea and coffee facilities.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel to Chester, to enjoy free time in this magnificent Roman city. Chester is home to the most complete city walls in England, the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain and a stunning 1000-year-old cathedral. Later, we continue to our hotel where a warm Welsh croeso (welcome) awaits on St David’s Day, along with a cup of tea and traditional bara brith, a rich Welsh fruit loaf made with tea!

Day 2 – This morning we visit Llandudno, the most popular resort in north Wales. Stroll the flat, flower bedecked promenade, and visit the busy town centre Later, we travel to Conwy, a World Heritage Site with an imposing 13th century walled castle and quaint harbour.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Caernarfon, home to Wales’s most famous castle. Built in the 13th century by Edward I, it was also the site of the investiture of Prince Charles as current Prince of Wales.

Day 4 – Sit back and enjoy a more leisurely way to travel today as we include a journey on the Llanberis Lake Railway. Our little steam train will take you through spectacular scenery right in the heart of Snowdonia.

Day 5 – We bid our Welsh hosts a fond ‘hwyl fawr’ or farewell and retrace our footsteps home.

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INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Welcome drink and bara brith on arrival Entertainment at the hotel on one night Journey on the Llanberis Lake Railway Excursions to Chester, Llandudno & Conwy Free time in Caernarfon Sun 1 March - Thu 5 March

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Welsh Border Charm Rail & Sail INCLUDES 4 nights half board Excursions to Chester, Oswestry & Barmouth Llangollen Horse Drawn Canal Cruise Journey on the Bala Lake Railway

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham **** Wrexham Our modern hotel features all en suite guest rooms with complimentary Sky TV. Guests can access the mini gym, sauna and jacuzzi.

Llangollen Aqueduct in Wales © Hilda Weges

Day 1 – We travel to the ancient Roman city of Chester before continuing to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we take you to the little town of Llangollen, where we have arranged a horse-drawn canal cruise along the beautiful Llangollen Canal. We return to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Day 3 – This afternoon we visit Oswestry for free time.

Day 4 – This morning we travel to the seaside town of Barmouth before enjoying a journey on the Bala Lake Railway. This narrow‐gauge steam railway runs alongside Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), hauled by a historic Welsh steam locomotive, during which you can enjoy excellent views of the beautiful Thu 2 April - Mon 6 April Snowdonia National Park.

Please see price booklet for details Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

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Ramada Plaza by Wyndham **** Wrexham Our comfortable hotel offers stylish accommodation with a bar, restaurant and guestrooms feature tea and coffee making facilities.

Heritage railway station © Peplow

Day 1 – This morning we head for a boat ride on the Llangollen Canal, where we meet our bright, traditionally decorated canal boat before drifting along the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, 120-thrillingfeet above the River Dee. We will then continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we will be treated to a journey on the Llangollen Railway, the only standard gauge heritage railway in North Wales. The line takes us on a relaxing journey through the stunning Dee Valley by the picturesque River Dee. Afterwards, there will be a little free time in Llangollen before we return home.

Sat 24 October - Sun 25 October

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Welsh Lake Bala Rail & Puffin Island Sail: NEW

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Puffin family © Jpiks1

DURING YOUR STAY...

Join us as we travel to the Welsh Highlands for an unforgettable new break including a journey on the steam hauled Bala Lake Railway and a fascinating cruise around the unique Puffin Island.

Royal Victoria *** Llanberis

Our hotel is set in Snowdonia National Park on 30 acres of gardens and woodlands. Guestrooms are en suite with flat-screen TV, and tea and coffee making equipment.

Day 1 – We travel to the traditional market town of Shrewsbury before continuing to our hotel later this afternoon. Welcome tea or coffee will be served on arrival.

Day 2 – This morning we travel through the beautiful Welsh countryside via Betws-yCoed, often referred to as ‘Little Switzerland’ to Llanuwchllyn, where we have arranged a journey on the Bala Lake Railway. This narrow‐ gauge steam railway runs alongside Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), hauled by a historic Welsh steam locomotive, affording views of the beautiful Snowdonia National Park.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure, perhaps take the opportunity to ascend mighty Snowdon on the famous mountain railway which departs from the station just a couple of minutes walking distance from our hotel.

Day 4 – Our first stop today is historic Caernarfon, home to one of the most famous castles in Wales. After a little free time, we travel over the Menai Straights, towards the impressive Beaumaris Castle where we enjoy a short photo stop. Next, we join our cruise over to Puffin Island – home to many species of birds and wildlife.

This leisurely cruise will take us around the entire island, with live commentary and local history along the way. Keep your eyes peeled you might

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be lucky enough to spot one of the resident grey seals or bottlenose dolphins!* Day 5 – We retrace out footsteps home.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board Welcome tea/coffee on arrival Hotel entertainment each evening Farewell glass of wine with dinner on our final evening Journey on the Bala Lake Railway Puffin Island boat cruise Visits to Betwa-y-Coed & Caernarfon Free time in Llanberis Mon 22 June - Fri 26 June

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details *Animal sightings cannot be guaranteed.

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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12/09/2019 10:33:03

Isle of Man Steam Railway, National Folk Museum at Cregneash & Curraghs Wildlife Park

Peel Harbour Isle of Man © Panmaule

Located on the Irish Sea between England and Ireland, the Isle of Man is filled with natural beauty, which ranges from rugged coastal cliffs through to flat plains and sandy beaches. We stay in the island capital Douglas, with excursions to Ramsey and Laxey and visits to fascinating museums.

Hydro Hotel *** Douglas, Isle of Man

Our hotel is situated on the historic Queen’s Promenade overlooking Douglas Bay. Guestrooms have tea and coffee making facilities, TV and central heating.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Enjoying comfort stops along the way we travel by road and ferry to the Isle of Man. Day 2 – This morning we enjoy a journey on the Isle of Man Railway from Douglas to Port Erin. The railway uses original locomotives and carriages. Afterwards, we visit the Railway Museum, where you can learn about the history of the island’s railway network. This afternoon, we take you to National Folk Museum in Cregneash – a living, working illustration of 19th and 20th century Manx crofting life, where visitors can see traditional farming methods in action.

Day 3 – Today we invite you to explore Douglas at your own pace. The beautiful sea front is lined with picturesque restaurants and locally owned stores.

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Day 4 – After breakfast we will take you to Curraghs Wildlife Park, set in 40‐acres of beautiful, natural scenery and home to 350 types of animals including large cats, birds of prey and primates. After some free time, we travel the short distance to Ramsey and then to Laxey, a picturesque village best known for its water wheel ‘Lady Isabella’ which used to pump water out of the mines.

Return ferry sailing 4 nights half board Journey on the Isle of Man Railway Admission to the Railway Museum, National Folk Museum at Cregneash & Curraghs Wildlife Park Excursions to Ramsey & Laxey Free time in Douglas

Day 5 – We return to the East Midlands.

Sat 22 August - Wed 26 August Please see price booklet for details

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5 Days

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Royals & Rails in Scotland

Featuring the Jacobite Steam Railway

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Queen Victoria and Prince Albert fell in love with the Highlands in 1842. On this break, you can fall in love with Scotland for yourself as we journey on the Jacobite Steam Railway the ’Greatest Railway Journey in the World’.

Discover Balmoral Castle, Cairngorms National Park and the quaint towns of Mallaig, Aviemore and Braemar on a tour not to be missed.

Fishers Hotel *** Pitlochry Centrally located in the beautiful Victorian town of Pitlochry, our hotel offers spacious bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Guests will enjoy hearty evening meals in the Kingfisher Bar, which hosts regular live music nights. There is also a cosy lounge with real log fires and garden views.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Today we will enjoy a leisurely journey to Pitlochry, in the heart of Scotland. During our holiday we will be staying at the Fishers Hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Fort William, to join the Jacobite Steam Railway to Mallaig – considered the ‘Greatest Railway Journey in the World!’ We cross the mighty Glenfinnan Viaduct, which was used in the Harry Potter films and at the end of the line arrive in Mallaig for a couple of hours at leisure. This busy fishing port is home to many shops, bars, restaurants and plenty of fish and chip shops.

This town surrounded by spectacular mountain Day 3 – Cameras ready today as we take a scenic scenery and is a haven for walkers. drive through the Cairngorms National Park, situated in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

Prepare for spectacular scenery with towering mountains, sparkling lochs and plenty of wildlife!

Enjoy some free time in Aviemore. Located in the INCLUDES north west corner of the Cairngorms National Park this town is surrounded by lush Highland 4 nights half board scenery making it the perfect destination to watch the world pass you by. Enjoy the afternoon Club Class coach travel Journey on the Jacobite Steam Railway at leisure back at our hotel.

Admission into Balmoral Castle Scenic drive around Cairngorms National Park Day 4 – This afternoon we visit Balmoral Castle Free time in Mallaig, Aviemore & Braemar with entry into the grounds, gardens, exhibitions and gift shop all included. Balmoral Castle has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since 1852. After free time to explore Balmoral, we enjoy a stop in the picturesque village of Braemar.

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Mon 27 April - Fri 1 May

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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12/09/2019 10:33:11

Isle of Man & the Lake District

River Ned, Peel, Isle of Man © Panmaule

Our two centre holiday is perfect if you enjoy rugged natural beauty, captivating scenery & unspoiled landscapes. The Lake District National Park includes England’s highest mountain – Scafell Pike and the famous Lake Windermere. Across the Irish Sea lies the Isle of Man, an unspoiled sleepy gem with quaint harbours and rolling hills.

The Hydro Hotel Douglas The Isle of Man Our hotel stands proudly overlooking the historic Queen’s Promenade on Douglas Bay and is just a short walk away from the beach.

Shap Wells Hotel *** Cumbria

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – A sea voyage lands us at Douglas, main town and capital of the Isle of Man and our base for the first half of our holiday.

Day 2 – A full tour of the island will take in Castletown, with its well-preserved medieval castle, the seaside village of Port Erin and fishing port of Peel. The former Viking island is a land of legend, folklore & smuggling, of rugged unspoiled beauty and spectacular sunsets.

Day 6 – We travel to Keswick, the pretty market town at the foot of the Skiddaw Peak on the shores of Derwent Water. There are many restaurants, shops and museums to enjoy, before venturing to our final Lake District destination Penrith. The former Cumbrian capital is home to a fascinating museum displaying Roman pottery, the 14th century Penrith Castle and boasts panoramic views across the Eden Valley.

Day 3 – We enjoy free time in Douglas, with plenty to see and do. Be sure to visit the Manx Museum with its treasure of Viking gold, stroll the pretty promenade, perhaps with an ice cream Day 7 – After breakfast we bid a fond farewell to the in hand, and take a horse drawn carriage ride. beautiful Lake District and head for home.

Douglas will remind you of a little seaside resort from days gone by.

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Surrounded by 30 acres of woodland our hotel offers Day 4 – Crossing back to the mainland, we make our way to the heart of the Lake District National spacious bedrooms, many with countryside views, a Park, and to the market village of Kendal, packed games room and the Riverside Lounge. with intriguing arts and crafts, and of course home of the famous mint cake. Later we head to our hotel in nearby Shap Wells.

Day 5 – Today we visit Lake Windermere. The lake and surrounding peaks were also inspiration to Beatrix Potter. We also visit Ambleside, a small town and major tourist resort that lies at the head of the lake.

3 nights half board on the Isle of Man 3 nights half board in Cumbria Return ferry sailings Scenic drive through the Lake District Visits to Windermere, Ambleside, Keswick, Kendal & Penrith Full day tour around the Isle of Man with stops at: Castletown, Port Erin & Peel Free time in Douglas Fri 13 March - Thu 19 March

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7 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Lakeland Winter Warmer All-Inclusive House Party NEW THIS BREA

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INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights stay 2 soup and sandwich lunches 2 packed lunches 3 x drinks vouchers per person per day Hotel entertainment on 2 nights Excursions to Ulverston, Bowness-on-Windermere, Kirkby Lonsdale & Settle Free time in Grange-over-Sands

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Cumbria Grand Hotel *** Grange-over-Sands

Our charming hotel is set in 25-acres of gardens and woodlands and is within easy walking distance to the beach. Many rooms have panoramic sea views.

Bowness-on-Windermere harbor © Palliki

Day 1 – Enjoy a relaxing journey to the Cumbria Grand Hotel with comfort stops en route.

Day 2 – This morning we travel to Grange-over-Sands for a little free time before travelling to the pretty town of Ulverston, the birthplace of Stan Laurel. Maybe visit the world’s only Laurel & Hardy museum. We return to the hotel for a light lunch and free time.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time to explore Grange-over-Sands. After a light lunch, this afternoon we visit Bowness-on-Windermere, the Lake District’s most popular destination.

Day 4 – After breakfast we collect our packed lunch and travel to the historic market town of Kirkby Lonsdale before continuing on to Settle, one of the most picturesque towns in Ribblesdale for free time.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home, armed with a packed lunch from the hotel.

Mon 20 January - Fri 24 January

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Laver’s Annual Get-Together in Norfolk including Broads Cruise INCLUDES 3 nights half board Excursions to Kings Lynn, Norwich & Wroxham Scenic boat cruise in Wroxham Free time in Great Yarmouth

Prom Hotel *** Great Yarmouth Located a short walk away from the beach, our hotel offers comfortable bedrooms with free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.

Group of friends in countryside © Highwaystarz-Photography

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely stop in Kings Lynn before arriving at our hotel later this afternoon.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Norwich where after some free time we return to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Day 3 – After a leisurely morning we take you to Wroxham where we have included a scenic boat cruise. What better way to discover one of Britain’s most enchanting landscapes than learning about the Broads with a fun and informative commentary whilst taking in the beautiful scenery all around you.

Day 4 – After breakfast we wave goodbye to our hosts and begin our journey home.

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Thu 16 January - Sun 19 January

4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Summer Cruising in the Northern Lake District INCLUDES 4 nights half board Excursions to Kendal, Keswick, Grasmere & Windermere Derwent Water & Ullswatert cruises Admission to Lowther Castle & Gardens Free time in Carlisle

Cumbria Park Hotel *** Cumbria

Our hotel is located a short distance from the city centre.

Guestrooms have tea and coffee making facilities.

Pleasure boats on Coniston water © Khrizmo

Day 1 – We make our way to Kendal, a handsomely built limestone market town before continuing to the Cumbria Park Hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Keswick, where we have included a boating trip around Derwentwater. On board you can enjoy special views of Skiddaw, England’s fourth highest mountain, Catbells and the ‘Jaws of Borrowdale’. Later, we visit the village of Grasmere.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure in Carlisle. Perhaps visit the remarkable Carlisle Castle (just a short walk away from our hotel).

Day 4 – We travel to Ullswater where we have arranged a cruise aboard a heritage steamer vessel. From here we continue to nearby Lowther Castle & Gardens, built at the turn of the 19th century on the site of two previous houses. The castle was a grand affair boasting a room for every day of the year!

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps back to the East Midlands.

Mon 10 August - Fri 14 August

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Cumbria Grand Hotel *** Grange-over-Sands Our charming hotel is set in 25-acres of gardens and woodlands and is within easy walking distance to the beach. Many rooms have panoramic sea views.

Hawkshead, Cumbria © Acceleratorhams

Day 1 – We travel through the scenic Yorkshire Dales National Park to our hotel in Grange-over-Sands.

Day 2 – Today visit Holker Hall and Gardens for free time, where you can explore the fine collection of antique furniture and art without the restriction of ropes and barriers. Later, enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

Day 3 – This afternoon we travel to nearby Haverthwaite station for a journey on the historic Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway which runs to the southern tip of Lake Windermere. Here, we will cruise to Bowness-on-Windermere to enjoy some free time before returning to our hotel.

Day 4 – Our excursion today will take us to the heart of Coniston Water. During the day we will visit Coniston and Hawkshead, two of the most picturesque villages in Britain with free time to explore.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home with comfort stops along the way.

Mon 26 October - Fri 30 October

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5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Wonders of Wiltshire & Mysteries of Stonehenge

CLASS C UB © Lackock Abbey

DURING YOUR STAY...

Sit back, relax and enjoy the wonders of Wiltshire, a ‘hidden jewel’ in the crown, home to rolling lush countryside and fascinating historical places. With our carefully crafted itinerary, we explore the medieval village of Lacock plus Bowood House and Garden. We also visit Stonehenge, Bath and Marlborough.

Jurys Inn Swindon **** Our hotel offers stylish bedrooms with a Dream bed, spacious bathrooms and tea and coffee making facilities.

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Day 1 – We travel to the beautiful Roman city of Bath, home to some of the richest ancient history in Britain and some of the most stunning architecture in Europe. Perhaps stroll along the cobbled high street filled with independent shops and quaint tearooms or explore the original Roman style baths. After some free time, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – This morning we visit the quintessential village of Lacock. Dating back to the 13th century, this fascinating village was once the centre of the medieval wool trade. Still beautifully preserved today and cared for by the National Trust, the village is home to many of its original properties.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure back at the hotel. circle of Stonehenge, one of the New Wonders of the World and best-known prehistoric monument in Europe.

Day 3 – Following a leisurely morning, this Day 5 – After an enjoyable stay we return home with afternoon we take you to Bowood House comfort stops en route. and Gardens. Set in 100-acres of Capability Brown Grade I parkland, Bowood House is the magnificent family home of the Marquis and INCLUDES Marchioness of Lansdowne. After some time to Club Class coach travel explore perhaps enjoy a drink in The Treehouse 4 nights half board Café.

Excursions to Bath, Marlborough & Stonehenge Visit to the National Trust’s Lacock Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to the market Admission into Bowood House & Gardens town of Marlborough for free time. Head to the High Street, said to be one of the widest in the UK, and lined on both sides with characterful old Thu 21 May - Mon 25 May 5 Days buildings housing an array of high-quality shops.

Please see price booklet for details This afternoon, we take you to the ancient stone

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Cotswolds & the Wye Valley

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Featuring Gloucester Canal Cruise

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Wye Valley and River Wye © Acceleratorhams

Garden lovers will be sure to find something to delight them on our break to the pretty Cotswolds and the Wye Valley. Home to some of the country’s finest gardens. We visit Sudeley Castle and Gardens, Tredegar House and Hidcote Manor Gardens.

Penyard House *** Weston-under-Penyard

Our hotel is a restored grand 18th century building with a garden and a sun terrace which guests are welcome to enjoy.

The hotel does not have a lift, but there are a limited number of ground floor rooms which are available in a separate building adjacent to the main house.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – This morning we visit historic Worcester for free time. The city is best known for its magnificent cathedral, which rises majestically above the city. This afternoon we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Sudeley Castle & Gardens – the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within its grounds – the last of Henry VIII’s six wives, Catherine Parr.

Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, the castle is surrounded by a breathtaking 1,200 acre estate and gardens. The centrepiece is the Queens Garden, so named because four of England’s queen’s; Anne Boleyn, Catherine Parr, Lady Jane Grey and Elizabeth I once walked upon the original Tudor parterre. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at leisure back at the hotel.

Day 3 – This afternoon we visit the National Trust’s Tredegar House, one of the most significant late 17th Century houses in the British Isles. Situated in 90-acres of beautiful gardens and parklands, this delightful red brick house was the ancestral home of nobility for more than 500 years.

Day 4 – Today we travel to Gloucester, where we will enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal. Discover the history of the canal while relaxing on board the Queen Boadicea II, which helped evacuate troops from the beaches

of Dunkirk in May 1940. Later, we visit the National Trust’s Hidcote Manor Gardens where we spend the rest of the day. Created by the talented American horticulturist Major Lawrence Johnston, it is one of the greatest gardens in the country! Explore the maze of narrow paved pathways and discover secret gardens, magnificent vistas and plants that burst with colour.

Day 5 – After an enjoyable stay (and another hearty breakfast) we return home.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Admission into Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Tredegar House & Hidcote Manor Gardens Gloucester & Sharpness Canal cruise Excursion to Worcester Mon 3 August - Fri 7 August Please see price booklet for details

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Heart of England: Shakespeare’s Stratford & the Cotswolds

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage © Zambezi Shark

Step back in time and discover the Heart of England on our charming getaway to Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds. Visit Shakespeare’s family homes with included admission into Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Mary Arden’s Farm, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Shakespeare’s New Place and Hall’s Croft.

Enjoy excursions to the attractive villages of Broadway, Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-onthe-Water, followed by a delightful cream tea.

Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall **** Gloucester Surrounded by acres of beautiful grounds, our elegant country house boasts modern rooms and wonderful views across the lawns and the lake. En suite rooms have HDTV and free Wi-Fi.

Day 1 – We travel to Cheltenham, the most complete Regency town in Britain, before continuing to our 4-star hotel in Gloucester.

Day 2 – Today we visit the five properties of the Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust. Highlights include actors and guides in Elizabethan costume, period furniture and archery and birds of prey demonstrations.

Day 3 – This morning we visit Gloucester, the cathedral city of the Cotswolds for free time.

Perhaps visit the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, home to “The Glorious Glosters” – the Day 5 – We travel home with a leisurely stop at Royal Leamington Spa. most decorated regiment in the British Army, or the National Waterways Museum before exploring the 11th century Gloucester Cathedral, resting place of King Edward II. INCLUDES Day 4 – This afternoon enjoy a scenic tour around the Cotswolds. Our first stop today is Broadway, often referred to as the ‘Show Village of England’ due to its sheer beauty and magnificence. Next, we visit the delightful market town of Stow-onthe-Wold, home to a variety of antique shops and art galleries. Afterwards, we travel to Bourton-onthe-Water, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ because of its attractive little bridges that cross the gently flowing River Windrush.

Here, we have arranged a cream tea for you to enjoy before returning to our hotel.

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DURING YOUR STAY...

4 nights half board Excursions to Cheltenham, Gloucester & Royal Leamington Spa Visit to Stratford-upon-Avon with admission into 5 Shakespeare attractions Tour around the Cotswolds with visit to Broadway, Stow-on-the-Wold & Bourton-on-the-Water Cream tea in Bourton-on-the-Water

Mon 23 March - Fri 27 March

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Taste of the West Country

Knightshayes Court country house © Dafydd_ap_W

DURING YOUR STAY...

Discover the delicious tastes of the West Country on our ‘tongue-tastic’ break that includes a heavenly cream tea plus guided tours to Quince Honey Farm and Sheppy’s Cider Farm. We also visit Tewkesbury, Exmouth, Barnstaple and include entrance into the National Trust’s Knightshayes Court.

Best Western Tiverton Hotel *** On the outskirts of Tiverton and set in mature gardens, the Best Western Tiverton Hotel provides spacious bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities. Please note: There is no lift or walk-in showers at the hotel, but ground floor rooms are available.

Day 1 – We head to the market town of Tewkesbury, one of the best-preserved medieval townscapes in England. Later, we continue to our hotel where a warm West Country welcome awaits!

Day 2 – This morning we visit Knightshayes Court, a country house, richly decorated with historic interiors. There are celebrated formal gardens containing rare shrubs, lily pools, floral borders and amusing topiary. The newly-restored walled Victorian garden is a particularly fine example.

After free time, we return to the hotel for a delicious West Country cream tea.

Day 3 – This afternoon we visit the traditional seaside resort of Exmouth, situated on Devon’s Jurassic Coast, with 2 miles of glorious sandy beaches. Perhaps stroll the promenade and treat yourself to an ice cream.

Day 4 – Today we travel to Quince Honey Farm, where traditional, 200-year-old craftmanship has been passed down through the generations. Our guided tour will explain the whole honey process from hive to jar. Before we leave be sure to pick up a jar of locally produced honey from the on-site shop. This afternoon we visit Barnstaple – the largest town in North Devon, for a little free time.

Barnstaple remains a thriving market town and features many fine buildings and attractive narrow streets for you to explore.

Day 5 – On our way home we visit Sheppy’s Cider Farm for a guided tour which includes a visit to the orchards, the press house and the Sheppy’s rural life museum, and culminates with a guided tasting of some much loved ciders.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board West Country cream tea at the hotel Excursions to Tewkesbury, Exmouth & Barnstaple Admission into National Trust Knightshayes Court Guided tour of Quince Honey Farm & Sheppy’s Cider Farm Thu 17 September - Mon 21 September Please see price booklet for details

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Treasures of Tyne & Wear

Featuring Tanfield Rail, Quay Cruise & Beamish Museum

© Tanfield Railway

Discover Tyne & Wear by rail, sea and land!

Experience the world’s oldest railway with a journey on the Tanfield Railway before taking to the water with a quay‐to‐sea cruise. Then step back in time to the 1820’s and beyond with a trip to the Beamish Living Museum of the North.

Millennium Copthorne Hotel **** Newcastle Situated overlooking the River Tyne, our hotel in Newcastle offers an outdoor terrace which provides panoramic river views for guests to enjoy. Modern guestrooms are fully equipped and en suite

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel to Newcastle via the smart cathedral city of Ripon for free time.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we board the quay‐ to‐sea Cruise for guided commentary on the ever‐changing face of the River Tyne. During the cruise, we will be taken under the incredible Gateshead Millennium Bridge, which opens especially for the cruise and enjoy the panorama of the Tyne Gorge, before returning downriver through to the river mouth.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

As our hotel is located a short walk from the castle, why not explore this imposing Norman fortress which provides beautiful views over the city and reveals the story of how Newcastle became established.

Day 4 – We enjoy a return journey on the Tanfield Railway. You can admire the beautiful scenery from the comfort of your carriage along tracks which are said to be part of the world’s oldest railway. This afternoon we visit the Beamish Living Museum of the North. Prepare to be told the stories of those living in the northeast during 17th to 20th centuries.

Day 5 – Before returning home, we enjoy a leisurely visit to Durham.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board Welcome tea/coffee & biscuits on arrival Free time in Newcastle-upon-Tyne Journey on the Tanfield Railway Quay-to-Sea cruise Visits to Ripon & Durham Admission to the open-air Beamish Museum of the North Sun 26 July - Thu 30 July

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Lincolnshire Gems & The Battle of Britain

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Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Excursions to Lincoln, Woodhall Spa & Louth Guided tour of the Battle of Britain Memorial Visitors Centre at RAF Coningsby Free time in Skegness

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The Savoy Hotel **** Skegness Located in central Skegness, surrounded by seafront attractions, The Savoy has been family run since 1986. Rooms are comfortable and tastefully decorated, with TVs and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Supermarine Spitfire with an Avro Lancaster Bomber © Domanski

Day 1 – Enjoy free time in historical Lincoln before continuing to Skegness and our seafront hotel.

Day 2 – A tour into the Wolds – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We travel via the market towns of Horncastle and Market Rasen to the historic town of Louth.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time in Skegness – one of the Britain’s favourite seaside resorts.

Day 4 – We visit RAF Coningsby, the Southern Typhoon Main Operating Base and home to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Flown by regular serving RAF aircrews, the flight operates six Spitfires, two Hurricane Mk 2Cs and a Lancaster, as well as a C47 Dakota and two Chipmunk aircraft. Here, we will be shown around the hangar and heritage aircraft by volunteer guides, many of whom have first hand experience of the aircraft. We will then travel to Woodhall Spa, where we have a little free time before the journey back to the hotel.

Day 5 – After breakfast we retrace our footsteps home.

Mon 20 April - Fri 24 April

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Kynren: An Epic Tale of England INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights half board Excursions to York, Bernard Castle & Thirsk Entry to the Kynren performance

Holiday Inn Washington **** The Holiday Inn Washington provides a friendly and comfortable night’s stay, with tea and coffee making facilities available in each bedroom.

© Kynren Media

Day 1 – We visit York before travelling to our hotel in Washington.

Day 2 – We head to the market town of Barnard Castle, where you can wander the delightful cobbled streets. After a little free time, we return to our hotel for an early evening meal before travelling to Auckland Castle for tonight’s spectacular performance. As dusk falls, this action-packed show begins, featuring pyrotechnics, spectacular lighting and water effects, with a cast of over 1000 local volunteers.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit the market town of Thirsk, where the major attraction is the Wonderful World of James Herriot, a part TV set, part museum to the popular ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ drama series.

Fri 28 August - Sun 30 August

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3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Yorkshire Roses

Featuring Harrogate, York & Castle Howard Proms

View of York Minster Cathedral in Yorkshire, England © Sara Edwards

Fall in love with historic Yorkshire on our captivating getaway. We enjoy the famous sights of medieval York we also enjoy admission into the Proms set in the magnificent gardens of Castle Howard. This spectacular classical concert will be a night to remember.

The Crown Hotel *** Harrogate Located within walking distance of Harrogate’s town centre, our hotel offers individually styled and comfortable bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We drive north calling for a visit to Holmfirth, better known as the location for the popular BBC TV series ‘Last of the Summer Wine’.

Join the thousands of fans who make the journey every year to visit such locations as Sid’s Cafe and Nora Batty’s Steps! From here we continue to our Harrogate hotel.

Day 2 – Enjoy the morning at leisure in the Victorian spa town of Harrogate, with its handsome historic buildings. You might like to take the opportunity to visit the famous Betty’s Tearoom, which has held pride of place in the town for over 100 years and continues to attract visitors from afar to sample the delicious treats on offer. This afternoon we board the coach with picnics in hand (supplied by the hotel) and head off for the highlight of our weekend, the Castle Howard annual Proms event. The packed concert programme will include popular classics, songs from musicals and all our flag waving favourites from the Proms.

As this is an outdoor event please dress appropriately.

Please note: Seating is not provided and you will be allowed to bring 1 compact folding chair per person.

Day 3 – 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!

The magnificent minister, castle, dungeons and

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city walls are all popular attractions. After some free time we return to the East Midlands this afternoon with comfort breaks along the way.

INCLUDES 1 night half board 1 night bed & breakfast Picnic on day 2 in place of evening dinner Excursions to Holmfirth & York Free time in Harrogate Ticket to the Castle Howard Proms Fri 21 August - Sun 23 August

3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Durham, Alnwick Castle & Beamish Museum

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Alnwick Castle © Darrenturner

DURING YOUR STAY...

Discover the North East like never before on our special holiday with large single allocation.

Included are excursions to beautiful castles, gardens and the award-winning Beamish Living Museum of the North. You can go at your own pace, or stick together as a group.

Sporting Lodge Hotel Middlesbrough **** Our hotel is situated on the outskirts of Middlesbrough. Guests can enjoy complimentary use of the leisure facilities including swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Bedrooms feature TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 1 – With comfort stops on the way we travel to York, the most historic and fascinating city in the north of the country. Explore the castle, dungeons and magnificent minster, perhaps treat yourself to a cruise on the River Ouse or make your own chocolate bar at the brilliant York Chocolate Story – an interactive history of Rowntree.

Day 2 – Today we travel to Alnwick Castle and Gardens, which has been home to the Percy family for over 700 years. You may have spotted elements of this castle previously on the Christmas specials of Downton Abbey, acting as Brancaster Castle.

Day 5 – We spend our morning at Helmsley Walled Garden, where we have organised a guided tour. Nestling at the foot of the North York Moors, the gardens are a tranquil and inviting space originally designed to provide Day 3 – We visit Durham this morning for free vegetables, fruit and flowers and now is a place for time. Home to one of the most recognisable horticultural therapy. From here we continue our journey landmarks in the UK: Durham Cathedral. This afternoon enjoy time at leisure back at our hotel, home. perhaps even take advantage of the excellent INCLUDES leisure facilities.

Day 4 – After a leisurely morning we visit Beamish Living Museum of the North. The town is brought back to a previous life dramatically by costumed actors, and you can enjoy every day working demonstrations of life in a byegone era. Buy freshly baked bread, visit the traditional 1900’s pub, the Sun Inn or the café, and buy souvenirs of your visit. A great day out is guaranteed for all.

4 nights half board Excursions to York & Durham Admission into Alnwick Castle & Gardens Guided tour of Helmsley Walled Gardens Visit to Open Air Beamish Museum Mon 7 September - Fri 11 September

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5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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A Right Royal & Aristocratic Adventure:

Althorp, Blenheim, Windsor & Thames River Cruise

CLASS C UB © Windsor Castle

Britains history is one of the richest in the world and now you can join us as we look back on the people that have made our history from Sir Winston Churchill to Lady Diana and even Queen Victoria. Discover the places where they lived and played out the spectacle that was their lives on our aristocratic adventure.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – This morning we take you to Althorp Estate, the magnificent home to nineteen generations of the Spencer family, including Diana before her marriage to Prince Charles.

Showcasing one of Europe’s finest private collections of furniture, paintings and ceramics, each room has a fascinating story of its own.

Afterwards we take you to our hotel in High Wycombe.

Day 2 – We travel to Windsor for free time this morning. This charming town is home to a beautiful riverside location as well as plenty of cafés, restaurants and of course Windsor Castle – one of the Queen’s official Royal residences Our comfortable hotel offers a restaurant, lounge and and the largest and oldest occupied castle in the bar offerng tempting dishes from around the world. world!

The lounge also serves Starbucks coffee. Guestooms Day 3 – After a relaxing morning we visit Henleyhave free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities. on-Thames, an historic riverside town overlooked by a beautiful landscape of wooded hills and green fields. We have arranged a delightful river cruise with informative commentary on board.

Holiday Inn High Wycombe ***

Day 4 – After breakfast we visit Blenheim Palace, which nestles on the edge of the Cotswold’s.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts over 300-years of history and was the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Explore the gilded State Rooms and experience the beauty and magnificence of this Grade I listed building. In the afternoon we visit nearby Oxford The ‘City

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of Dreaming Spires’. Famous around the world for its prestigious colleges and places of historical interest.

With a mix of ancient and modern, there is plenty to do from finding a cosy café and enjoying some tea and cake to spotting TV locations.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Admission in to Althorp Estate & Blenheim Palace Excursions to Windsor & Oxford Visit to Henley-on-Thames with river cruise Mon 20 July - Fri 24 July

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Morse’s Oxford & Downton Abbey

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DURING YOUR STAY...

See the fascinating filming locations of Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour and discover the beautiful university city of Oxford. Marvel at Highclere Castle, familiar as TV’s Downton Abbey, as we visit some of the charming locations that have played a key role in our favourite British TV dramas!

Mercure Newbury Elcot Park **** Newbury The Mercure Newbury Elcot Park Hotel is situated in 16-acres of gardens and woodland in the Kennet Valley. All rooms in the hotel are fitted with a flatscreen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 1 – We travel to Aylesbury, a bustling market town best known for producing the ‘tastiest’ duck in the 19th century! During your free time perhaps visit the Buckingham County Museum, which features the famous Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery. Later we continue to our 4-star hotel.

Day 2 – This morning we visit the ancient Roman city of Bath, famous for its elegant buildings and diverse range of restaurants, independent shops, theatres and pubs. The natural hot spring baths that give the city its name are still popular today, while the sweeping row of 30 terraced houses known as the Royal Crescent appeared in the film sets of countless film and TV sets, including Jane Austen’s Persuasion. After we return to our hotel to enjoy a leisurely afternoon, why not enjoy the Day 5 – After breakfast we visit Oxford, the setting of the TV dramas Inspector Morse, Lewis and Endeavour. You’ll facilities and 16 acres of landscaped gardens. get to see many of the places recognisable from these Day 3 – A leisurely start this morning followed by much-loved detective series including the Randolph Hotel, an afternoon visit to the nearby thriving market White Horse pub and Broad Street! town of Marlborough, set in the North Wessex Downs, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Day 4 – Today we visit the picturesque Highclere Castle, best known as the Edwardian country home of the hit TV series “Downton Abbey”. We include admission into the castle, gardens and the popular Egyptian Exhibition.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Excursions to Aylesbury, Bath, Marlborough & Oxford Admission into Highclere Castle Sat 15 August - Wed 19 August

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Regal Homes & Royal Palaces

© Frogmore House

DURING YOUR STAY...

From Henry VIII to Meghan and Harry, we will Day 1 – We travel to Frogmore House, located see ‘how the other half live’, exploring the within Windsor Home Park, which has been a splendid residences of the Monarchy. royal residence since 1792. Surrounded by fine

Holiday Inn London Shepperton ****

Situated in 11-acres of mature parkland, our hotel provides a restaurant, casual lounge and bar for guests to relax in. The bedrooms are handsomely furnished and designed to feel like a home away from home.

and picturesque gardens, within the grounds you can find the mausoleum of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Why not take advantage of a unique tour of the house and marvel at its timeless interiors, which have been influenced by several generations of the Royal Family.

Day 2 – After breakfast we head to central London to visit Clarence House, the official London residence of HRH Prince Charles The Prince of Wales and his wife Camilla the Duchess of Cornwall. The tour begins in the garden where you can see the formal area added by The Prince of Wales in 2004/2005 in memory of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. After some free time, we return to our hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

wedding location for Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke & Duchess of Sussex.

Day 4 – We visit Hampton Court Palace – a favourite residence of Henry VIII (who brought all his 6 wives here). The palace is surrounded by over 60-acres of gorgeous gardens to explore, plus famous features such as the Maze and the Great Vine.

Day 5 – We begin our journey home with comfort stops along the way.

Day 3 – After a relaxing morning, we take you INCLUDES to Royal Windsor for free time. Whilst here, perhaps visit the iconic Windsor Castle, the family home to British kings and queens for over 4 nights half board 1,000 years. The castle is the oldest and largest Admission into Frogmore House, occupied in the world, and highlights include: Clarence house & Hampton Court Palace The State Apartments, The Semi-State Rooms Excursion to Windsor and St George’s Chapel. Set within the grounds of Windsor Park, it is one of the finest examples of Sat 15 August - Wed 19 August Gothic architecture in England and was the

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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The Garden of England & Historic Kentish Castles

Leeds Castle © Chrisds

Travel with us to the “Garden of England” on our delightful visit to Kent, home to Victorian architecture, classic Edwardian resorts and flourishing, decorative gardens. Admission into The National Trust’s world-renowned Sissinghurst Castle Garden and Leeds Castle have been included as well as a fabulous tour and tasting at Chapel Down Winery.

Holiday Inn Ashford North ***

This friendly hotel with spacious accommodation rests in a peaceful country location. Rooms overlook the countryside and offer satellite TV and tea and coffee making facilities.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel via a leisurely stop in St Albans.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Sissinghurst Castle to admire the world-renowned gardens set in a 460-acre estate of scenic countryside. The poet and writer Vita Sackville-West and her diplomat husband Harold Nicholson fell in love with Sissinghurst Castle and began transforming it in the 1930s. They created the unusual gardens, which are designed as a series of themed “rooms.” Explore the diversity of the gardens and venture through the open areas of the castle. We return to our hotel for the afternoon at leisure. falconry displays and year-round attractions, Leeds Castle Day 3 – After a leisurely morning we visit Chapel is not to be missed.

Down Winery, located in the beautiful Kent countryside. Here, we have arranged a guided Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps back home. tour of the vineyard followed by a tutored tasting of the award-winning sparkling and still wines.

INCLUDES Day 4 – Our excursion today takes us first to Rochester, famously associated with Charles Dickens. Later, we visit Leeds Castle, described as the ‘Loveliest in the World’. The castle has been the property of six of England’s medieval queens and the palace was used by Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. With free flying

4 nights half board Excursions to St Albans & Rochester Admission into Sissinghurst Castle Garden & Leeds Castle Chapel Down Winery Tour & tasting Tue 21 July - Sat 25 July

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Maritime Portsmouth & Historic Houses of Hampshire NEW THIS BREA

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Best Western Royal Beach Hotel *** Portsmouth Our well-appointed hotel overlooks the sandy beach.

Amenities include an elegantly decorated restaurant and bar. Bedrooms are decorated in warm or cool tones, and feature free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.

Portsmouth Port © Eric Laudonien

Day 1 – We make our way to Oxford, the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ steeped in history and character.

Day 2 – After breakfast we take you to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where you will have the opportunity to visit your choice of either Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory, HMS Warrior 1860 or the National Museum of the Royal Navy. Later there will be free time to explore the maritime city of Portsmouth Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Southsea, a charming, traditional Victorian seaside resort.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Beaulieu Palace House & Estate Experience, where 800 years of heritage awaits. Explore the stately home, the world-famous National Motor Museum and the 13th century abbey which are all surrounded by picturesque gardens.

Day 5 – After a leisurely breakfast we return home.

Mon 24 August - Fri 28 August

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details Seaview rooms are available on request for a supplement

Blooming Beauty of Eastern England’s Sunshine Coast Featuring RHS Garden Hyde Hall & Audley House

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4 nights half board Hotel entertainment Excursions to Colchester & Clacton-on-Sea Admission into RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Beth Chatto Gardens & Audley House and Gardens Free time in Southend

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The Westcliff Muthu Hotel *** Westcliff‐on‐Sea Built in 1891 our hotel is close to the seafront, with views over the Thames Estuary. It provides individually decorated rooms with a classic boutique English style and a brasserie restaurant serving international cuisine.

Spending time with grandfather in the park © Liderina

Day 1 – We visit Audley End House & Gardens, renowned as one of the finest Jacobean houses in England. This afternoon, we continue to our hotel in Westcliff-on-Sea. Day 2 – After breakfast we visit RHS Garden Hyde Hall which boasts an eclectic range of inspirational horticultural styles from traditional rose gardens and herbaceous borders to large sweeping borders of grasses and meadowland. We spend the afternoon at leisure to explore our seaside resort.

Day 3 – This afternoon we visit Beth Chatto Gardens, home to 2000 varieties of plants. There are a series of 4 gardens to explore, Screen, Gravel, Woodland and Water.

Day 4 – We visit Colchester and Clacton-on-Sea for for free time.

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

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Mon 13 July - Fri 17 July

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Constable Country Landscapes Featuring Ickworth House INCLUDES 4 nights half board Admission into Ickworth House Half day guided tour visiting Long Melford, Cavendish, Clare, Bury St Edmunds & Lavenham Full day guided tour of Constable Country: East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford Mill

Holiday Inn *** Colchester

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

View of Ickworth House © Snowshill

Day 1 – We travel south east to the Suffolk borders to Ickworth House, a National Trust property estate that brings a taste of classic Italy to the county.

Day 2 – Enjoy a guided tour around the quaint villages that surround the market town of Bury St Edmunds.

Day 3 – As well as offering superb riverside walks our hotel boasts a relaxing environment. This morning you get the chance to enjoy it before we visit Colchester in the afternoon.

Day 4 – Today we will be met by a knowledgeable guide who will take us on a tour of Constable Country on board our comfortable coach. This beautiful area is where the artist John Constable painted his famous works including “The Hay Wain”.

Day 5 – After an enjoyable stay we return home with comfort breaks along the way.

Wed 2 September - Sun 6 September

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Colourful Cotswolds Houses & Gardens Featuring Blenheim Flower Show NEW INCLUDES 4 nights half board Excursions to Oxford, Stow-on-the-Wold & Cirencester Cream tea at Bourton-on-the-Water Admission into Buscot Park & the Blenheim Palace Flower Show

Holiday Inn Swindon **** Our modern hotel has a fully equipped leisure centre with indoor pool, relaxing sauna and spa bath. The bright and airy bedrooms feature tea and coffee making facilities

Magnolia © Jennifer Sanerkin

Day 1 – On our way to our base in Swindon we enjoy a visit to historic Oxford.

Day 2 – Today we explore Stow-on-the-World, home to many fine antique, art and craft shops before visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, where we have arranged a delicious cream tea.

Day 3 – After breakfast we visit the market town of Circencester. Later we return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Perhaps head to the hotel’s outdoor terrace and watch the world pass you by.

Day 4 – Enjoy a little rest and relaxation at our hotel. Take a dip in the indoor pool or take advantage of the sauna and spa bath. This afternoon we visit the National Trust’s Buscot Park, a splendid 18th century house and family home of Lord Faringdon, set amidst enchanting landscaped grounds.

Day 5 – Before returning home we will visit the annual Blenheim Palace Flower Show!

Mon 22 June - Fri 16 June Please see price booklet for details

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5 Days

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Castles of Scottish Lowlands: Edinburgh, Stirling & Guided Thirlestane

Edinburgh Castle from the west © Godrick

DURING YOUR STAY...

From wonderfully preserved medieval strongholds to romantic clifftop ruins, Scotland is a land steeped in legend and architectural grandeur. Discover with us the unique stories behind these marvellous monuments on our enchanting Scottish break.

Peebles Hydro Hotel **** Peebles Our charming, historic hotel features an indoor swimming pool, spa and restaurant. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities.

Day 1 – We enjoy a leisurely journey to the bustling market town of Moffat, where we will have free time before continuing to our hotel in the afternoon.

Day 2 – After breakfast we take you to Edinburgh, where we have included admission into the mighty Edinburgh Castle! One of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe, the castle is home to the Honours (Crown Jewels) of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, the famous 15th century gun Mons Meg, the One O’Clock Gun and the National War Museum of Scotland.

Day 3 – A day at leisure in Peebles to do as much or as little as you like. Nestled within an area of outstanding natural beauty, Peebles is a picturesque market town cherished by locals and visitors alike. You may wish to take the opportunity to enjoy the fabulous spa and leisure facilities.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Lauder for a guided tour of the magnificent Thirlestane Castle. Discover its fascinating history with our experienced and entertaining guide as we explore the splendour of the State Drawing Room, the room where Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed. This afternoon we visit the market town of Kelso which is full of architectural and historical interest.

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Day 5 – Today we travel to Stirling, where we have included admission into the stunning castle – one of Scotland’s most historically important sites and home to Mary Queen of Scots. The castle’s history can be traced back to 1107 and it may even have been the site of King Arthur’s round table! Afterwards you can enjoy a short walk around The Queen Anne Gardens, which lie on the south side of the castle, overlooked by the Queen’s Lodgings and the Prince’s Tower.

Day 6 – We retrace our footsteps home.

INCLUDES 5 nights half board Excursions to Moffat, Kelso & Stirling Admission into Edinburgh Castle & Stirling Castle Guided tour around Thirlestane Castle Free time in Peebles Sun 18 October - Fri 23 October

6 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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A Royal Easter in Oban INCLUDES

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4 nights half board Hotel entertainment on some nights Easter egg for every passenger Excursions to Gretna Green & Ellenabeich Excursion to the Inner Hebridean Islands Free time in Oban

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Royal Hotel *** Oban Warm Scottish hospitality awaits at our well-appointed Oban hotel. There is a lift and free Wi-Fi throughout. Rooms are en suite with TV, hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities.

Oban © Grafxart8888

Day 1 – Travelling north we visit Gretna Green, where eloping couples have headed since the 1700’s.

Day 2 – We journey over the Clachan Bridge, popularly known as ‘The Bridge Over the Atlantic’ to Seil Island. Here, we visit Ellenabeich, the island’s main village, which has featured in several films including Ring of Bright Water. The village’s main attractions are the lovely Gardens of An Carla and the Scottish Slate Islands Heritage Centre which is housed in a little white cottage.

Day 3 – Enjoy Easter Sunday at leisure exploring Oban, the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’.

Day 4 – This morning we travel by ferry to the beautiful Isle of Mull. For a scenic drive past Glenmore and Loch Scridain, then to Fionnphort where we catch a foot passenger ferry over to the unique island Fri 10 April - Tue 14 April of Iona. For the opportunity to visit the world famous Iona Abbey.

Please see price booklet for details Day 5 – Taking treasured memories we begin our journey home.

5 Days

Easter in Northumberland INCLUDES 3 nights half board Lunch on Easter Sunday Easter egg for every passenger Excursions to Harrogate, Alnwick, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Lindisfarne & Durham

Holiday Inn Washington *** Our hotel is renowned for its friendly staff and warm northern welcome. With an established restaurant and a contemporary lounge and bar area, our hotel is ideal for an Easter break.

Walk-in showers are available upon request.

Durham Cathedral © Travellinglight

Day 1 – We visit the Victorian spa town of Harrogate in north Yorkshire en route to our base in Washington.

Day 2 – Today we visit the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, beautiful Alnwick, and have a lunctime stop at Berwick‐upon‐Tweed altogether making for an action-packed day.

Day 3 – Easter Sunday: We visit Durham, home to one of the most recognisable landmarks in Britain the majestic Durham Cathedral, together with adjacent Durham Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site forms one of the most stunning city panoramas in Europe. We return for lunch back at our hotel and a relaxing afternoon at leisure.

Day 4 – After breakfast we begin our journey home with comfort stops along the way.

Fri 10 April - Mon 13 April

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4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Daffodils at Chippenham Gardens & St Albans THIS BREA

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INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 1 night half board Excursion to Chippenham Gardens to see the daffodils & St Albans Guided tour of St Albans Cathedral

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Novotel Stevenage ****

By historic Knebworth House, our hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

St Albans Cathedral © TonyBaggett

Day 1 – This morning we travel south to historic St Albans for a guided tour of the cathedral, followed by some free time to explore at leisure.

Day 2 – We visit Chippenham Park near Cambridge, which was created by Lord Russell as an enchanting family estate at the end of the 17th century. The gardens have been awarded the highest two-star rating by Good Gardens Guide and are only open to the public a handful of times throughout the year. What better time to visit than when the sweet smell of spring is in the air?

Every spring these stunning gardens are transformed into a superb show of bright, intoxicating daffodils, spring bulbs and pretty blossoms that you can experience in your own time today. After free time, we return home. Please note: Whilst the site is flat. It is not suitable for wheelchair or mobility walkers due to loose and uneven surfaces.

Sat 21 March - Sun 22 March

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Snowdrops in the Cotswolds THIS BREA

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INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 1 night half board Free time in Bourton‐on‐the‐Water and a cream tea Admission to Painswick Rococo Garden

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Jurys Inn *** Swindon The Jurys Inn Swindon offers stylish rooms perfectly designed to provide guests with all the comforts of home.

Garden in the Cotswolds © Jenifoto

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. Why not take a stroll along the River Windrush or stop by the Cotswolds Motoring Museum & Toy Collection before we travel to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Painswick Rococo Garden for the annual display of snowdrops - an experience that 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.

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Sat 15 February - Sun 16 February

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Kew Gardens Orchid Festival & Windsor

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Holiday Inn Slough *** Windsor Located in the heart of Slough our hotel has spacious, thoughtfully decorated bedrooms with tea & coffee making facilities.

© Kew Gardens

Day 1 – Today we visit The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew for the annual Orchid Festival. Enjoy colourful floral displays of the most delicate, exotic flower, the festival is usually enhanced with craft displays and foodie experiences. Kew is the leading botanic gardens in the world, with over 130 hectares of gardens and landscapes including including Treetop Walkway.

Day 2 – Shortly after breakfast enjoy some free time in the Royal Borough of Windsor. Crowned by the stunning Windsor Castle, where the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle took place in 2018. Windsor offers a rich mix of history, culture and heritage, which makes it one of England’s most unique and beautiful destinations. After some free time, we return home to the East Midlands.

Sat 22 February - Sun 23 February

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Chiltern Hills & Bluebells at Kew Gardens NEW H TRAVE AC

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Novotel Stevenage ****

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By historic Knebworth House, our hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

Couple walking outdoors © Monkeybusinessimages

Day 1 – This morning we journey through the rolling Chiltern Hills before visiting the vibrant Georgian market town of Marlow, one of the loveliest locations on the River Thames. Here we have arranged a cream tea before continuing to our hotel.

Day 2 – Today we visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The winter bluebells add a splash of vibrant colour to the world-famous botanic paradise as we enjoy a springtime walk before returning home.

Sat 25 April - Sun 26 April

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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RHS Chatsworth Flower Show INCLUDES 1 night half board Admission into RHS Chatsworth Flower Show Excursion to Lincoln with boat cruise

Mercure Doncaster Danum Hotel *** Located in the centre of town, our hotel retains its original Edwardian features including the ballroom. It offers free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and all rooms have flat-screen TV’s and hospitality trays.

© Chatsworth House

Day 1 – This morning, we travel to Lincoln where we have arranged a relaxing boat trip along Brayford Pool. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sights of Lincoln and the surrounding countryside from a different perspective with a very entertaining commentary. After some free time, we continue to the hotel.

Day 2 – We head to the Chatsworth Estate to spend a full day at the RHS Chatsworth Flower Show before returning home later this evening.

Sat 13 June - Sun 14 June

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

RHS Chelsea Flower Show & Kew Gardens INCLUDES Return coach travel 2 nights bed & breakfast Admission in to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Admission in to Kew Gardens Free time in London

Crowne Plaza London Heathrow **** The 4-star Crown Plaza features spacious, air-conditioned rooms with a contemporary design, internet access and tea and coffee making facilities.

© RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2018, Press Day

Day 1 – We travel to London with free time to enjoy the sights.

Day 2 – We visit the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The floral feast is home to nurseries and attracts growers from all over the globe, as well as unique craft demonstrations in the Artisan Studios.

Day 3 – Before returning home, we take you to the world-famous Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Discover beautiful glasshouses including the iconic Palm House with its exotic rainforest, the Princess of Wales Conservatory, the Waterlily House and Kew Palace – the former summer residence of King George III.

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Wed 20 May - Fri 22 May

3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Shakespearean Splendour & Stratford-upon-Avon River Festival NEW INCLUDES 1 night half board Excursions to Henley-in-Arden & Stratford-upon-Avon for the annual River Festival Visits to National Trust’s Charlecote Park

Holiday Inn Leamington Spa *** Warwick

Our hotel is set in well-tended gardens with its own gym and restaurant. The spacious rooms each have tea and coffee making facilities.

View of riverside promenade of Avon in Stratford upon Avon © Trabantos

Day 1 – This morning we pay a visit to idyllic Henley-in-Arden, a small market town in Shakespeare’s England, before continuing to Charlecote Park, now in the care of the National Trust. This grand 16th century house is set in stunning landscaped gardens, on the banks of the River Avon. After some free time, we continue to our hotel in Leamington Spa. Day 2 – After breakfast we head into Stratford-upon-Avon, where you can visit the annual awardwinning River Festival. The event offers a range of live music and dance, delicious global foods, local ales and an artisan craft market. The riverside comes alive amidst one of the region’s best loved events. Also don’t miss the chance to explore the many locations associated with the bard such as Shakespeare’s Birthplace, New Place, Hall’s Croft, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Mary Arden’s Farm.

Sat 4 July - Sun 5 July

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Cavern Club, Liverpool & Port Sunlight INCLUDES 1 night half board Free time in Liverpool Admission into the Cavern Club Admission into the Port Sunlight Museum

Best Western Plus Lancashire Manor *** Wigan Our hotel is a Grade II listed building dating back to 1870 and situated in beautiful gardens. The spacious en suite bedrooms offer super soft duvets and tea and coffee making facilities.

Albert dock in Liverpool © Trabantos

Day 1 – We travel to Liverpool with comfort stops along the way. Arriving in the city centre near the famous Cavern Club (with entrance included), we will welcome on board our coach a expert from the Liverpool Tourism Board who will provide us with a brief introduction of this famous city.

There will then be free time to enjoy Liverpool at your own pace.

Day 2 – After breakfast we take you to the Port Sunlight Museum and Garden Village. Packed with nostalgia, from vintage soap packaging to the story of Ringo Starr’s first Beatles performance, you can explore how this unique village was developed.

Sat 7 March - Sun 8 March

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2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo & the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond

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DURING YOUR STAY...

THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH – Set against a backdrop of the iconic Edinburgh Castle, you can experience an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance as over 900 cast members create a unique, atmospheric show unlike any other – The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo.

Leonardo Inn Hotel Glasgow West End *** Located in Glasgow’s trendy West End, the Leonardo Inn offers stylish modern rooms with welcome trays and tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 1 – We travel north of the border for a visit Moffat, an attractive town which has a rich heritage, history and a thriving cultural scene.

Perhaps visit the Moffat Museum and discover the fascinating story of the town. After some free time, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we take a scenic drive to the ‘Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond’ – one of the most spectacular places to visit in Scotland! We have a full day here admiring the beautiful lake and landscape.

Day 3 – After a leisurely start, our driver will take you into Edinburgh for free time this afternoon.

Whilst enjoying Scotland’s captivating capital city, don’t forget to try out one of its many award-winning restaurants and cosy eateries as dinner is not included today. As dusk falls don your tartan and take to your seats for the incredible Royal Military Tattoo performance!

Day 4 – Before returning home, we visit the historic city of Carlisle for free time. Just 10 miles from the border, Carlisle is the historic county town of Cumbria, at the western end of Hadrian’s Wall.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 2 nights half board 1 night bed & breakfast Excursions to Moffat, Loch Lomond, Edinburgh & Carlisle Ticket to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Thu 20 August - Sun 23 August

4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Fabulous Forties Festival in Colwyn Bay INCLUDES 4 nights half board Excursion to the Colwyn Bay 1940’s Festival Optional excursion to Snowdonia National Park

White Heather Hotel *** Llandudno Located close to the town centre ad a short walk from the beach, our traditional hotel has cosy bar, lounge and restaurant.

All guest rooms are en suite with tea/coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.

© 1940’s Festival at Colwyn Bay

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel enjoying comfort breaks along the way.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time in Llandudno.

Day 3 – Take a trip down memory lane today at the Colwyn Bay 1940’s Festival, inspired by the town’s strategic role as the headquarters for the Ministry of Food during the Second World War. This fantastic festival is the town’s way of celebrating its massive strategic role and is a chance to showcase the towns diverse range of businesses.

Day 4 – You may choose between spending another day at the 1940’s Festival or joining us for an optional excursion to Snowdonia National Park.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

Thu 23 April - Mon 27 April

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Mountbatten Festival of Music at The Royal Albert Hall

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Federation House *** Leatherhead Offering a comfortable nights stay the hotel offers spacious bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

© Mountbatten Festival of Music

Day 1 – We travel to Royal Windsor to enjoy free time.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit the famous London Borough of Greenwich, home to the Cutty Sark and Royal Observatory. As there is no evening meal included tonight why not take advantage of the great range of restaurants and places to eat that Greenwich has to offer. Later we travel into the heart of London for our concert by the Royal Marines at the Royal Albert Hall.

Day 3 – On our way home we visit historic St Albans, an important Roman city and site of one of the famous battles in the Wars of the Roses. Take a stroll through Verulamium Park with its ornamental lakes and ancient Roman wall, see mosaics and hoards of gold coins.

Fri 13 March - Sun 15 March

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3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Castle Hotel *** Merthyr Tydfil Set in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil, our hotel offers comfortable en suite bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

Brecon Mountain Railway © Phil Darby

Day 1 – This morning we visit Hereford, a lovely rural town with a friendly atmosphere and lots of things to do. Enjoy a stroll to Hereford Cathedral, home to the 13th century Mappa Mundi, the largest medieval map of the world in existence. Why not wander around the independent stores in the historical centre and call into the ‘Old Market.’ After free time, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast we enjoy a journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway - one of the ‘Great Little Trains of Wales’ - inside an observation carriage behind a vintage steam locomotive. Our journey to Torpantau following part of the original Brecon & Merthyr Railway route which closed in 1964.

Sat 9 May - Sun 10 May

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Postal Museum London & Oxford THIS BREA

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Novotel Stevenage ****

By historic Knebworth House, our hotel offers comfortable bedrooms with tea and coffee making facilities.

© Postal Museum

Day 1 – We travel south to Oxford the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ famous around the world for its prestigious universities and places of historical interest. With a mix of ancient and modern, there is plenty to do, from visiting one of the many famous buildings, collages or museums, to finding a cosy café or enjoying a tea and some cake!

Day 2 – Today we visit the Postal Museum in London, which features interactive galleries and an extraordinary collection of postal history.

Sat 25 January - Sun 26 January

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Jersey By Air

Gorey Harbour, Jersey © Gary Le Feuvre

Lying between the shores of England and France, Jersey is a little taste of the continent with the familiarity of home! Voted #1 in the Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award for the UK’s top island, Jersey offers stunning scenery, spectacular beaches, emerald green valleys, medieval fortresses and a wonderful array of attractions.

Norfolk Lodge *** St Helier Situated in the north of St. Helier our hotel is a leisurely walk to the beach and provides guests with a spacious lounge, sun‐terrace and live entertainment. Please note: This hotel is not suitable for passengers with restricted mobility, there are 10 to 15 steps to enter the hotel and a few steps to get to the rooms.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We make the short journey from your chosen departure point to East Midlands Airport.

After a short flight, a local representative will greet us in Jersey for the hotel transfer.

We have arranged a full day guided tour during the week – via coach! (We will be advised of the day of the excursion during your stay.) With a wealth of knowledge, bags of humour and local secrets to share, these tours are a great way to discover the island! Jersey’s size makes it easy to fit plenty into your holiday. With heritage discoveries on your doorstep and miles of beaches and bays to explore, how you spend the rest of your time is completely up to you.

FINAL DAY – After breakfast you will be collected from your hotel and taken back to the airport for your return flight home. On arrival in the UK our door‐to‐door service will be waiting for you at the airport.

INCLUDES Return airport transfers from home Return flights to Jersey from East Midlands Airport Meet & Greet in Jersey Half board accommodation Island tour Free time in Jersey Mon 20 April - Fri 24 April

5 Days

Sun 7 June - Sat 13 June

7 Days

Mon 6 July - Sat 11 July

6 Days

Sun 13 September - Sat 19 September

7 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Please note: flight times will be available at least 3 months prior to departure.

Skills Holidays act as a representative on behalf of DS. ATOL 9503. Standard Skills Terms and Conditions do not apply, please ask a member of Retail for more information.

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Guernsey By Air

Saint Peter Port, Guernsey © Allard1

DURING YOUR STAY...

A short journey from home will transport you to a mystical island, that feels like you could be a million miles away – Guernsey!

One of the largest of the Channel Islands and flourishing with natural beauty, Guernsey provides a peaceful environment for relaxing and an idyllic Continental atmosphere.

Day 1 – We take you to East Midlands Airport for your flight over to Guernsey. On arrival, you will be greeted by a Skills representative and taken to your hotel.

Day 2/5 – During your time on the island we have arranged a half‐day guided tour of the island ‐ by coach! Afterwards enjoy free time in Guernsey, doing as much or as little as you like for the rest The Peninsula Hotel *** Guernsey of your stay. Guernsey’s compact size makes it easy to get around, and there is always plenty to Set within 5 acres of gardens, our hotel has a do during your visit here. Walkers can explore the prominent seafront position overlooking Grand coastal trails and picturesque cliff paths, history Havre Bay on the northwest coast of the island. If you lovers are spoilt for choice with well‐preserved are looking for a relaxing break, you will find a large outdoor swimming pool, which is heated during the fortifications and intriguing museums and those who love to relax, can simply enjoy the miles of summer, and a childrens pool. golden beaches.

Day 6 – You’ll be collected from your hotel and taken back to the airport for your return flight home. On arrival in the UK our door‐to‐door service will be waiting in the arrivals lounge.

INCLUDES Return airport transfers from home Return flights to Jersey from East Midlands Airport Meet & Greet in Guernsey 5 nights half board Half day island tour Free time in Guernsey Fri 1 May - Wed 6 May

6 Days

Wed 15 July - Mon 20 July

6 Days

Wed 9 September - Mon 14 September

6 Days

Please see price booklet for details

Please note: flight times will be available at least 3 months prior to departure.

Skills Holidays act as a representative on behalf of DS. ATOL 9503. Standard Skills Terms and Conditions do not apply, please ask a member of Retail for more information.

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Isles of Scilly

Isle of Scilly

Welcome to the Isles of Scilly, the outstandingly beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt islands that are unlike anywhere else in Britain! With miles of untouched golden beaches, timeless destinations, ancient history and surrounded by crystal blue waters, once you set foot in the islands, you’ll never want to leave.

Tregarthen’s Hotel *** St Mary’s

With stunning sea views, our hotel is a short 5-minute walk from the centre of pretty Hugh Town. The hotel has a spacious lounge bar and a restaurant looking out across the sea to Round Island Lighthouse.

DURING YOUR STAY...

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 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.

INCLUDES Day 3/5 – During the next three days, you are free to explore St Mary’s, the largest island Return coach transfers in the archipelago in your own time. The Return ferry crossings to St. Mary’s Port coastline features large stretches of deserted 1 night half board en route white sandy beaches, dramatic rocky coves, 1 night bed & breakfast en route stunning seascapes, amazing archaeological sites, beautiful walks and scenery along miles of 4 nights half board on the Isles of Scilly Visits to Stratford-upon-Avon & Worcester coastal and country paths and natural trails. If you’re feeling adventurous perhaps catch a ferry Free time on the Isles of Scilly to one of the neighbouring islands including: Tresco, St Martin’s and St Agnes and discover a Fri 4 September - Thu 10 September 7 Days little more of this incredible paradise.

Please see price booklet for details

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LE ROO NG

LARG E MS OCA ALL T

4 Star Irish Experience

INCLUDES Return ferry sailings 5 nights half board Welcome glass of house wine, beer or mineral water with your evening meal on your first night Music entertainment on one night Spa discounts available (please call for more information) Excursions to Dublin, Athlone & Galway Admission into Belvedere Castle & Gardens & Castletown House

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Bloomfield House Hotel Leisure Club & Spa ****

Dublin’s Grafton Street © Jamegaw

Day 1 – We travel across the Irish Sea to our hotel which is surrounded by countryside.

Day 2 – We visit Dublin the famous Irish capital that sits of the River Liffey for a chance to explore the city.

Day 3 – Morning visit to Belvedere Castle & Gardens, this stately house boasts a magnificent 160‐ acre lakeside estate alongside an 18th century Georgian villa and a Victorian walled garden.

Day 4 – This afternoon we head to the Castletown House and Gardens, Ireland’s first and largest Palladian style estate built between 1722 and 1729.

Day 5 – This morning we visit Athlone where you can visit the Athlone Castle, a major attraction that features a Visitor Centre and the Luan Art Gallery. Afterwards we visit Galway for free time.

Day 6 – We retrace our footsteps back home.

Our beautiful hotel is situated by a lake and has bar, grill, restaurant, lounge, spa and fitness. En suite guestrooms have tea and coffee making facilities, free Wi-Fi, hairdryer and iron and board.

Sun 17 May - Fri 22 May

6 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEW

Brussels Flower Carpet INCLUDES Return Channel crossing 3 nights bed & breakfast Free time in Brussels *Optional excursion to Liege £20 per person

Hotel Ibis Brussels City Centre Ibis Brussels City Center offers modern yet simple rooms in the centre of Brussels. This air-conditioned hotel includes a 24-hour front desk and has a cosy bar with traditional wooden décor.

© Brussels Flower Carpet

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to the Hotel Ibis in Brussels city centre.

Day 2 – After breakfast, beat the crowds and head down to the La Grand-Place to enjoy the sensational Flower Carpet (our hotel is approximately a 7-minute walk away), which is created using almost a million beautiful begonias. La Grand-Place is renowned for its decorative and aesthetic wealth and is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Day 3 – Enjoy another day at leisure, or alternatively join us for an optional visit to Liége.* Holding the title of “Most Visited City in Wallonia” (Belgium’s French-speaking region), Liége attracts visitors near and far with its folksy charm and quirky architecture.

Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home.

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Thu 13 August - Sun 16 August

4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED NEED SOME SOME ADVICE? ADVICE?PLEASE PLEASE CALL CALL ONE ONE OF OF OUR OUR FRIENDLY FRIENDLY ADVISORS ADVISORS ON ON08456 0845666 6655 5544* 44*

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Cruise & Maritime Voyages The Skills Holidays Group are delighted to work together with Cruise & Maritime Voyages to offer you a tempting selection of inspirational cruises and whisk you off on an adventure of a lifetime.

Cruise & Maritime Voyages are the UK’s leading independent cruise line dedicated to providing a more traditional and leisurely style of cruising, with high levels of customer service. Their small to mid-size ships are able to access more ports of call than the large cruise ships, enabling them to offer some truly innovative itineraries.

Skills Holidays want to help make your cruising experience effortless, that’s why our aim is to offer you a hassle-free experience from the moment you place your booking with our independent travel agents, right up until the time we transport you back to your drop off point.

Magellan Ship Information

Please enquire for more details of our full 2020 Cruise Programme.

Magellan is an extremely impressive ocean cruise ship with a gleaming profile, beautiful wood style decks and a wide range of public areas and deck spaces in which to relax.

Restaurants: Waldorf & Kensington Restaurants (waiter service, varied menu) Raffles Bistro (buffet),

Fusion Restaurant (extra charges apply) Lounges & Bars: Magellan Theatre Show Lounge, Sinatra’s, Hampton’s, Taverner Pub and Captain’s Club Other facilities: Hairdressers, Beauty Studio, Sauna, Massage Studio, Card Room, Library, Gym, Shopping Gallery, 2 Outside swimming pools, 2 whirlpools, deck areas for excerise, relaxation and viewing Standard Twin Ocean View Cabin

*Extra charges may apply for some of the restaurants and extra services on board

Magellan Ship Deck Plan

12 Sun Deck 11 Navigator Deck 10 Columbus Deck 9 8

Magellan Deck Amundsen Deck

7

Pacific Upper Deck

4

Caribbean Deck

5 6

Baltic Reception Deck Atlantic Main Deck

Cabin facilities: Air conditioned | Private en-suite facilities | Shower Wardrobe | Storage space | Flat screen TV | Hairdryer | Safe

Category Cabins

Size

Deck

1 2 3 5 6 7 7s

Standard Twin Inner Standard Plus Twin Inner Superior Twin Inner Superior Single Inner Standard Twin Ocean View Standard Twin Ocean View Standard Single Ocean View

135 sq ft 138 sq ft 143 sq ft 134 sq ft 143 sq ft 141 sq ft 141 sq ft

4 5 6 6/7 4 5/6 5/6

IG OG

Voyager Inner Guarantee Cabin Voyager Outer Guarantee Cabin

Our prices are based on Inside Voyager Cabins which are allocated by CMV and will be advised with your final documentation. Supplements apply for single and outer cabins on a similar basis to the above. You can book specific confirmed category for which an additional supplement applies. Other cabin options available on request.

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Faroes & Northern Isles | 7 Days S Faroes & NorthernOIsles YAG E E& CRUIS

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Kirkwall © Kevin Phillips

Day 1 - Newcastle (UK) Day 2 - Dundee (Scotland) Day 3 - Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (UK) Day 4 - Lerwick, Shetland Islands (UK)

Day 5 - Tórshavn (Faroe Islands) Day 6 - At Sea Day 7 - Newcastle (UK)

INCLUDES Return transfers to the cruise port Full board delicious cuisine Afternoon teas and late night snacks Captain’s Cocktail Party Self service tea & coffee (6am to midnight) Entertainment, cabarets and classical interludes Daytime activities and leisure facilities Wide range of leisure facilities on board Guest speaker and arts & crafts Porterage of luggage from port to cabin Port Taxes DATE

SHIP

Thu 14 May

Magellan

NIGHTS

6

TYPES OF CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

UPGRADE FROM

Standard Twin Inner (Cat 1)

£29 pp

Voyager Outside Guarantee (Cat OG)

£229 pp

Standard Twin (Cat 6)

£259 pp

Standard Twin (Cat 7)

£279 pp

Superior Single Inner (Cat 5)

£339 pp

Standard Single Oceanview (Cat 7S)

£449 pp

British Isles Discovery | 14 Days CRUIS

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INCLUDES Return transfers to the cruise port Full board delicious cuisine Afternoon teas and late night snacks Captain’s Cocktail Party Self service tea & coffee (6am to midnight) Entertainment, cabarets and classical interludes Daytime activities and leisure facilities Wide range of leisure facilities on board Guest speaker and arts & crafts Porterage of luggage from port to cabin Port Taxes

Honfleur, France © Dvoevnore

Day 1 - Liverpool (UK) Day 2 - Dublin (Ireland) Day 3 - Bristol Portbury (UK) Day 4 - At Sea Day 5 - Honfleur (France) Day 6 - At Sea Day 7 - Invergordon, Scotland (UK)

Day 8 - Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (UK) Day 9 - Portree, Isle of Skye (UK) Day 10 - Tobermory, Isle of Mull (UK) Day 11 - Oban, Scotland (UK) Day 12 - Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK) Day 13 - At Sea Day 14 - Bristol Portbury (UK)

DATE

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Wed 2 September

Magellan

NIGHTS

13

TYPES OF CABIN UPGRADES AVAILABLE

UPGRADE FROM

Standard Twin Inner (Cat 1)

£169 pp

Standard Plus Twin Inner (Cat 2)

£179 pp

Superior Twin Inner (Cat 3)

£339pp

Voyager Outside Guarantee (Cat OG)

£459 pp

Superior Single Inner (Cat 5)

£669 pp

Standard Single Oceanview (Cat 7S)

£899 pp

Terms and Conditions: Prices include savings and are from and per person based on two adults sharing a voyager twin cabin. Voyager grades and cabin numbers will be advised at ticket stage. Applies to new bookings only, may be withdrawn without notice and remain subject to availability.

Offers cannot be combined with any other offers and are rounded to the nearest ten unit fare. Gratuities at £7per person per night (£6 per person per night on cruises over 16 nights) will be debited from your onboard account. Cruise and Maritime Voyages are offered for sale in the UK by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise and Maritime Voyages. ABTA V9945

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NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Seasonal Shows & Festive Celebrations Our collection of exciting excursions occur in the lead up to Christmas and the New Year.

Enjoy spectacular revue-style shows, classic concerts and festivals, or join us before, during or after the Big Day to pull a cracker or two and bring in the New Year ‘lest auld acquaintance be forgot’!!

HTS

Themed Events & Turkey & Tinsel

Christmas Getaways

New Year Retreats

Pages 78 - 84

Pages 87 - 91

Pages 91 - 92

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Christmas at Blenheim Palace & Festive Stratford-upon-Avon NEW INCLUDES 1 night half board Admission into Blenheim Palace (including the illuminating Light Trail) Visit to Stratford-upon-Avon

Holiday Inn Leamington Spa *** Warwick

Set in well-tended gardens, our hotel provides spacious rooms, each have air conditioning, a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free tea and coffee.

© Christmas at Blenheim Palace

Day 1 – We make our way to Blenheim Palace which sits amongst 2,000-acres of beautifully landscaped parkland and gardens. Why not explore the stunning portraits, tapestries and exquisite collection of furniture in the Great Hall and State Rooms. Then, as darkness falls discover the illuminated trail through festive gardens, stroll through the towering Tunnel of Light which twinkles with over 100,000 pea-lights and enjoy the Great Lake and the waterfall of Blenheim Palace as it shimmers and sparkles in the moonlight. After free time, we travel to our hotel in Leamington Spa. 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, all adorned with twinkling Christmas decorations!

After some free time, we begin our journey home.

Sat 12 December - Sun 13 December

2 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEW

RHS Wisley Seasonal Glow & Hampton Court Palace

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Club Class coach travel Door-to-Door service 1 night bed & breakfast 1 night half board Excursions to Oxford & Kingston-upon-Thames Admission into RHS Wisley & Hampton Court Palace

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Federation House Hotel *** Leatherhead Our hotel offers a large atrium area with a restaurant and a bar. The comfortable bedrooms feature tea and coffee making facilities.

© Glow at RHS Wisley

Day 1 – We travel to Oxford for free time. Renowned as the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’, Oxford is one of the oldest and most celebrated university cities in the world.

Day 2 – After a leisurely start we head to the medieval town of Kingston-upon-Thames. Here you can wander through the ancient market place and surrounding streets which will be transformed in to a spectacular Christmas market! After some free time, we continue to RHS Wisley for the evenings magical ‘Glow’ event. Stroll along the enchanting trail and admire the spectacular light installations.

Wisley’s iconic trees are illuminated with floating light creating rippling reflections along the way, you can also visit the Plant Centre and Gift Shop which will be open late during the event.

Please note: Dinner is not included today due to the evening visit to RHS Wisley.

Day 3 – This morning visit Hampton Court Palace soaking up the atmosphere and spirit of the season where after some free time, we return home.

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Fri 18 December - Sun 20 December

3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Thursford Christmas Spectacular

© Thursford Christmas Spectacular

DURING YOUR STAY...

Join us as we visit Thursford Christmas Spectacular, the biggest show of its type in Europe! Over 130 singers, actors, musicans and all-round entertainers perform a non-stop feat of variety entertainment, that has been described as ‘Santa Goes to Las Vegas’.

Day 1 – This morning we take you to the twinkling town of Kings Lynn which is brimming with history and has a vibrant town centre preparing for the festive season! Kings Lynn is the perfect destination to spend a couple of hours perhaps picking up some stocking fillers. Later we will continue to the Prom Hotel and on arrival we enjoy a hot welcome drink.

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast and a little bit of free time in Great Yarmouth, this afternoon we travel to Thursford where we have included admission into the fabulous Thursford Christmas Our hotel is close to the beach and offers views of Spectacular. With a spellbinding cast of 130 the seafront and famous Golden Mile. The rooms have been decorated to a high standard and offer tea professional singers, dancers and musicians – many of whom are West End performers, this and coffee making facilities. There is also a bar and 3‐hour performance delivers an extravaganza of restaurant. non‐stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety all with a festive theme!

Prom Hotel *** Great Yarmouth

Day 3 – We travel home via a visit to Springfields Shopping & Festival Gardens. So why not fill your stockings, there are over 55 outlet stores selling famous-name brands in fashion and home at great discounts.

INCLUDES 2 nights half board Excursions Kings Lynn & Springfields Shopping & Festival Gardens Free time in Great Yarmouth Admission into Thursford Christmas Spectacular show Mon 2 November - Wed 4 November

3 Days

Sat 7 November - Mon 9 November

3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Warner Littlecote House Hotel

CLASS C UB © Warner Leisure

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to escape the hustle and 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 played host to Romans and even a Civil War army! All of this history comes with outstanding service, live nightly entertainment and a host of activities from bowls to air rifle shooting.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – We travel to Oxford for free time.

Renowned as the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’, Oxford is one of the oldest and most 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.

Warner Littlecote House Hotel ***

Day 2 – Enjoy a full day excursion to explore Bath Christmas Market. Soak up the sights, smells and sounds as you wander around this distinctively British Christmas market; enjoy the aroma of warming mulled wine and freshly baked mince pies before we return to our resort later today.

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 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 of treatments for men and women. After dinner this evening be sure to catch a fantastic live show!

Day 4 – We visit Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market, recognised as one of the best in Europe and inspired by traditional German markets.

Twinkling stalls are situated in Cathedral Close and surround an open-air ice rink. You can find an array of wonderful and unique Christmas gifts and arts & crafts that you wouldn’t normally find on the high street.

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

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INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Hotel entertainment Free time to enjoy the resorts leisure facilities Excursions to Oxford, Bath & Winchester Scenic drive through the Cotswolds Mon 30 November - Fri 4 December

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Early Festivities in Elegant Sidmouth

CLASS C UB © Sidmouth

DURING YOUR STAY...

Be “caught in timeless charm” on our festive getaway to elegant Sidmouth with all the trimmings. With included visits to Bath, Otter Nurseries Garden Centre, Sidmouth’s Donkey Sanctuary and not forgetting a traditional festive fayre at the hotel, you’ll be forgiven for believing that Christmas has come early!

Royal York & Faulkner Hotel *** Sidmouth A magnificent Regency building with an unrivalled position on Sidmouth’s elegant esplanade, ideally located for our stay. Rooms are en suite with TV, hairdryer, Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 1 – This morning our friendly driver will take us to Bath, where we can enjoy free time. Later, we will continue our journey to the Royal York & Faulkner Hotel in Sidmouth and on arrival we will enjoy mulled wine and mince pies.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Otter Nurseries Garden Centre for a walk around. Unlike most garden centres, they grow many of the plants that they sell! We take you to Torquay for the remainder of the day, so perhaps head for the harbour, which offers shops, cafés and a lovely marina to explore.

Day 3 – A leisure day to explore pretty Sidmouth, the most upmarket and elegant resort in Devon.

You will enjoy a stroll along the esplanade lined with smart hotels and houses and may find a bargain amongst the fine local shops that throng the town centre.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Sidmouth’s Donkey Sanctuary. Set along the historic Jurassic Coast. This working farm is home to hundreds of donkeys, mules and hinnies that have been rescued or relinquished in to the charity’s care.

Afterwards, we visit Seaton for some free time before returning to the hotel.

Day 5 – After breakfast we travel home with comfort stops along the way.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Entertainment at the hotel Mulled wine and mince pies on arrival Traditional Christmas Day dinner with crackers and a sherry reception Afternoon tea and cake Excursions to Bath, Otter Nurseries Garden Centre & Torquay Admission into the Donkey Sanctuary Free time in Sidmouth & Seaton

Mon 9 November - Fri 13 November

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5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Norwich & Norfolk Winter Wonderland NEW

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CLASS C UB © Blickling Hall

DURING YOUR STAY...

The festive season is a great time to treat yourself to a winter getaway, so why not join us for our ‘Winter Wonderland’ break in Norwich and Norfolk, which includes admission into the stunning Blickling Hall, a guided tour of Norwich Cathedral and a seasonal visit to Wroxham.

Prom Hotel *** Great Yarmouth

The Prom Hotel is close to the beach and offers views of the seafront and famous Golden Mile. The rooms have been decorated to a high standard and offer tea and coffee making facilities.

Day 1 – Today we visit stately Blickling Hall, set in the heart of a magnificent garden and historic park in the beautiful Bure Meadows. This breathtaking red brick mansion was donated to the National Trust in 1940 by Phillip Kerr, 11th Marquis of Lothian who is vital to its story because without him, it’s unlikely that Blickling would still be around. After some free time, we continue to our hotel in Great Yarmouth.

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Norwich, East Anglia’s major city for our guided tour of the stunning cathedral. Its one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe and one of England’s finest cathedrals. This afternoon enjoy free time in Norwich, which has an eclectic mix of high street shops, malls and independent stores, all preparing for the festive season.

Day 3 – Wroxham is our first stop today. Often called the ‘Capital of the Broads’, it’s located on the banks of the River Bure and offers many delightful eateries.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 2 nights half board Admission into Blickling Hall Guided tour of Norwich Cathedral Visit to Wroxham Wed 4 November - Fri 6 November

3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Royal Albert Hall Christmas Concert featuring Oxford INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 2 nights half board Visits to Bedford, Windsor & Oxford Admission into the Royal Albert Hall Christmas concert

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Holiday Inn *** Luton South This beautiful hotel is set within acres of the stunning Hertfordshire countryside. Offering a comfortable lounge bar area and friendly staff, we have the ideal hotel for our short stay.

© Royal Albert Hall

Day 1 – We visit the county town of Bedford, centred on a medieval castle on the banks of the River Great Ouse. After some free time, we travel to the hotel for this evenings dinner.

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast we visit magical Windsor, famous for its splendid Royal history, for free time. Perhaps find a cosy restaurant or café and enjoy a spot of lunch. This afternoon we travel to the iconic Royal Albert Hall for the spectacular Christmas concert, following which we have arranged dinner at a local restaurant before returning to our hotel.

Day 3 – After a hearty breakfast we visit Oxford where you may like to take opportunity to visit the cathedral. This beautiful building was originally St Frideswide’s Priory, the patron saint of Oxford.

Afterwards, perhaps visit the festive Oxford Christmas Market located in the heart of the city before we return home.

Tue 8 December - Thu 10 December

3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEW

Royal Festivities in Windsor & Christmas at Stonor Park INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 2 nights half board Admission into Stonor Park Free time in Windsor, Oxford & Henley-on-Thames

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Holiday Inn Express Heathrow ***

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

© Oxford

Day 1 – We travel south to Windsor where you will have plenty of free time to explore. The most famous landmark is Windsor Castle, where you can view many priceless Royal artefacts for a modest entrance fee. Alternatively, why not take a boat on the River Thames, or enjoy the town’s busy centre all ready for the festive season. From here, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Henley-on-Thames, then on to Stonor Park, one of England’s oldest family homes and still lived in today. We will witness the candle-lit Christmas decorations and walk from room to room imagining the many family members and friends who would have celebrated the festive season here through the centuries. After the visit we return to our hotel.

Day 3 – We retrace our footsteps home with a visit to Oxford en route for some splendid Christmas shopping opportunities.

Fri 11 December - Sun 13 December Please see price booklet for details

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3 Days

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Fountain Abbey Light Festival & Castle Howard INCLUDES

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Club Class coach travel 1 night half board Admission into the National Trust Fountain Abbey & Castle Howard

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The Cairn Hotel *** Harrogate Just 5-minutes from the centre of Harrogate, this grand, Victorian hotel boasts classical décor. Rooms are traditionally furnished and have tea and coffee making facilities.

Fountain Abbey Light Festival © National Trust Chris Lacey

Day 1 – Today we take you to Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, where we have included admission to the Light Festival. Wander through the estate to see the trees twinkling with lights and enjoy the warming sights of the abbey ruins illuminated with all the colours of the rainbow. Perhaps tuck in to some festive food before walking to the cellarium, where live entertainment and singing will be taking place – because it wouldn’t be Christmas without carols!

Day 2 – Shortly after breakfast we visit the enchanting Castle Howard. Take time to explore the grounds which take on a magnificent beauty in the crisp winter months. Inside you will find the house illuminated by candle and firelight and dressed in stunning traditional Christmas decorations.

Sat 21 November - Sun 22 November

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Club Class coach travel 2 nights half board Visits to Bourton-on-the-Water with a festive tea, Broadway & Worcester Excursion around the Wye Valley with visits to Ross-on-Wye, Symonds Yat, Monmouth & Chepstow

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Penyard House *** Weston-under-Penyard Our hotel is a restored grand 18th century building with a garden and a sun terrace which guests are welcome to enjoy.

Bedrooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi as well as tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel does not have a lift, but there are a limited number of ground floor rooms.

The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire in winter © Peter Llewellyn

Day 1 – Put on your favourite Christmas jumper today as we head to the wintery wonderland of the Cotswolds, where we enjoy visits to Bourton-on-the-Water and Broadway. Regularly voted as one of the prettiest villages in England, Bourton’s seasonal attraction is its twinkling Christmas tree which stands proudly in the centre of the village. After some free time, we have arranged light refreshments including a hot drink and mince pies before travelling via Broadway to our hotel.

Day 2 – Today we explore the enchanting Wye Valley, naturally decorated for festivities with its miles of frosted woodland, pine trees, mistletoe and holly. Our first destination is the riverside market town of Ross-on-Wye. We then continue to Symonds Yat, a picturesque village which straddles the River Wye before we move on to Monmouth, a pretty Welsh border town. Later, we make a stop at Chepstow, a historic market town dating back to Norman times, that overlooks the Severn Estuary.

Day 3 – We return home with a visit to Worcester, best known for its magnificent cathedral.

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Mon 14 December - Wed 16 December

3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Mistletoe & Wine at the Rosemundy House Hotel

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DURING YOUR STAY...

Christmas time is here, and we invite you to join us for some early festivities at our delightful Cornish hideaway. The gorgeous Georgian hotel is a long-standing customer favourite and our time here comes with a fabulous festive package. On our seasonal break we also enjoy a journey on the Lappa Valley Steam Railway and visits to Looe, Falmouth, Truro & Mevagissey.

Rosemundy House Hotel *** St Agnes Set on 4‐acres of gardens and woodland, this hotel is an 18th century Georgian house and offers garden views, cosy lounges and a bar and restaurant.

Day 1 – We travel to the small coastal town of Looe to enjoy a short sightseeing stop. The quaint, sleepy fishing port has all the rugged charm of the dramatic Cornish coast. Later, we travel to the hotel to enjoy a sherry reception.

Day 2 – One of the largest deep-water harbours in the world, Falmouth is a town steeped in maritime history. After some free time, we return to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon.

Day 3 – Following a morning at leisure, we make an afternoon journey journey on the Lappa Valley Steam Railway, bound for Santa’s magical Christmas grotto! Our ticket also includes a delicious mince pie and mulled wine served after.

Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to Truro, the administrative capital of Cornwall for free time.

Dating back over 800 years, the city’s heritage is as a market town and port and today is Cornwall’s only city. Truro’s most striking feature is the grand cathedral, built at the turn of the century, which continues to dominate the skyline and has some interesting Victorian stained-glass windows. This afternoon we visit Mevagissey where we will spend the remainder of the day before returning back to the hotel for this evening’s dinner.

Day 5 – Full of festive cheer we return home, with comfort stops along the way.

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board Sherry reception Visit and a gift from Father Christmas Excursions to Looe, Falmouth, Truro & Mevagissey Journey on the Lappa Valley Railway followed by mince pies and mulled wine Sat 14 November - Wed 18 November Please see price booklet for details

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North Devon Festive Delights Featuring Dunster by Candlelight

Lynmouth Harbour © MinistryOfJoy

Wrap up warm and join us as we step back in time in Dunster as it lights its medieval streets with atmospheric candles. This magical annual event, which begins at dusk, affords a unique chance to enjoy the village and its magnificent castle, illuminated much more softly whilst enjoying the traditional entertainment.

The Osborne Hotel *** Ilfracombe

Situated a 2-minute walk from the beach our familyrun hotel has a bar lounge, sauna, and a small games room. Rooms are en suite with TV, Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely stop in Cheltenham, where you can stroll along the leaf-lined promenade and perhaps pop into a cosy café.

After some free time, we continue to our hotel where a traditional festive dinner is served this evening.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time in Ilfracombe, a charming harbour town steeped in maritime history.

This morning there will also be a special visit from Father Christmas who will bring gifts for everyone! This afternoon we travel to Lynmouth then this afternoon we will be picked up by a shuttle bus which will take us to the festive village of Dunster. Every year this remarkably preserved medieval village lights up its streets with candles; the atmosphere is both traditional and exciting.

There is entertainment throughout the village that includes carol singers, morris dancers, hand bell ringers, a large fairground organ with choirs INCLUDES from the parish church. (Please note: dinner is not included today.)

1 night half board 1 night bed & breakfast Day 3 – Shortly after breakfast we take you to Excursions to Cheltenham, Lynmouth & Gloucester Gloucester for a little free time. Perhaps visit the Free time in Ilfracombe award-winning National Waterways Museum, Gift from Father Christmas shop for those Christmas gift bargains in the Late-afternoon candlelight event in Dunster village thriving city centre, or perhaps enjoy a coffee by Shuttle bus transfers to Dunster village the Gloucester Quays. After some free time, we continue our journey back to the East Midlands.

Fri 4 December - Sun 6 December

3 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Peak District in winter © Victoria Benjafield

Have a ‘Wonderful Christmas time’ with cherished friends and loved-ones as we travel to 17th century Buxton. The spa town is the highest in the stunning Peak District, Britain’s oldest National Park. Showcasing stunning ornamental gardens and a famous collection of Georgian and Victorian architecture, Buxton really is a winter wonderland.

The Palace Hotel Buxton & Spa **** Buxton

Situated in the centre of Buxton, our hotel is a grand Victorian building offering comfortable modern facilities and a restaurant.

DURING YOUR STAY...

Day 1 – This morning we travel into Derbyshire, enjoying a lunch break in picturesque Matlock Bath. Upon arrival at our Buxton hotel you can enjoy a welcome drink and the opportunity to meet the hotel staff before dinner, which is followed by entertainment.

Day 2 – Enjoy a morning at leisure in seasonal Buxton. If you don’t want to leave the comfort of the hotel then you could take advantage of the Beauty Rooms and Spa. This afternoon enjoy a stroll to the Opera House where we have included tickets to the matinee performance of the pantomime (oh, yes we have)! Tonight, there will be an evening of entertainment after dinner, and for anyone who wishes to attend Midnight Mass at the local church, mulled wine and mince pies will be waiting for you on your return.

Day 3 – After a hearty full English breakfast, you may wish to take a refreshing stroll out for some fresh air before a traditional Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings. Tea and Christmas cake will be served during the Queen’s Speech and later a light buffet will precede another evening of entertainment.

Day 4 – After a leisurely breakfast we enjoy a scenic tour of the Peak District with a visit to the charming market town of Bakewell for some free time. Whilst you’re here perhaps take the opportunity to sample a traditional Bakewell

pudding. We return to the hotel for a farewell dinner and a final evening of entertainment amongst friends.

Day 5 – We travel to Ashbourne, home to winding cobbled streets, a welcoming market place and handsome Tudor and Georgian buildings. After some free time, we return home.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board plus Welcome drink on arrival Hotel entertainment Traditional Christmas Day lunch & light buffet dinner Tea & Christmas cake served on Christmas Day Farewell dinner on Day 4 Excursions to Matlock Bath, Bakewell & Ashbourne Scenic tour of the Peak District Free time in Buxton Ticket to the local pantomime in Buxton Optional visit to Midnight Mass with mulled wine & mince pies served on return Wed 23 December - Sun 27 December Please see price booklet for details

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Lincoln Christmas Cracker

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Friends with deer antlers headbands at Christmas time © Halfpoint

DURING YOUR STAY...

Treat yourself to a special Christmas with friends old and new, on our getaway to the beautiful city of Lincoln. You can be assured that everything is taken care of on a fabulous package at our waterfront hotel with visits to Newark-on-Trent and the captivating Lincolnshire Wolds. So, all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the company!

Holiday Inn Lincoln *** Our hotel offers comfortable and friendly accommodation with modern en-suite rooms each providing tea and coffee making facilities.

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Afternoon tea will be served during the Queen’s speech and another fun quiz this evening will follow a light Day 1 – We travel to Newark-on-Trent, where we festive buffet of hot and cold dishes. will enjoy a couple of hours at leisure to soak up the festive spirit. This bustling town boasts one Day 4 – A leisurely start today with a scenic tour of the finest Georgian market squares in Britain, exploring the Lincolnshire Wolds. We then stop in Louth, along with a dramatic castle and two museums. an historic Georgian market town of narrow, winding We continue to our hotel in Lincoln where tea streets, which is and considered a gastro delight for and mince pies will be served on arrival, with a ‘foodies’ and hailed by TV Chef’s The Hairy Bikers as a chance to meet our hosts. Evening dinner will be “food mecca”. We return for tea and festive treats this followed by a fun and entertaining quiz. afternoon whilst later we enjoy a farewell dinner dance with live entertainment.

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast enjoy some free time to explore the beautiful city of Lincoln. Day 5 – After breakfast we will begin our leisurely Offering a wealth of history, the city is crowned journey home, enjoying comfort stops on the way.

by Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle – commissioned by William the Conqueror – they INCLUDES are some of Europe’s finest examples of Norman architecture. Later, we have included a visit to the 4 nights half board plus Entertainment at the hotel pantomime (oh, yes, we have!), to really get you into the festive spirit. Dinner back at the hotel will Welcome tea & mince pies Afternoon tea/coffee & festive treats on Christmas Eve be followed by sing-a long entertainment. This evening, guests wishing to attend Midnight Mass Coffee & biscuits on Christmas Day morning will be met at reception and escorted there, with Glass of Bucks Fizz or sparkling wine on Christmas Day Traditional Christmas Day lunch & buffet dinner warming hot drinks upon our return.

Farewell dinner dance on day 4 Excursions to Newark-on-Trent, Day 3 – Celebrate Christmas Day in the warmth the Lincolnshire Wolds & Louth and comfort of our hotel surrounded by friends, Ticket to the local pantomime old and new! After a delicious buffet breakfast perhaps enjoy a stroll along the waterfront which Escorted to Midnight Mass with hot drinks on return is adjacent to our hotel, before morning coffee and biscuits. Later, we will gather for Buck’s Wed 23 December - Sun 27 December 5 Days Fizz or sparkling wine reception in the lounge Please see price booklet for details before a traditional lunch with all the trimmings.

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Christmas in Llandudno: Llangollen Railway & Isle of Anglesey

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DURING YOUR STAY...

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

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

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.

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

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, famous for its magnificent 13th century castle.

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 ‘Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantys iliogogogoch’ the longest place name in Britain, and Beaumaris. This afternoon, we visit Caernarfon – home to Wales’ most famous castle. Where we have arranged a visit to the local pantomime. Afterwards, we will return to our comfortable hotel for dinner and entertainment.

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.

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 guest. Today there will also be a traditional banquet lunch with all the trimmings and dinner followed by evening 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

INCLUDES Club Class coach travel 4 nights half board plus Welcome drink & mince pies on arrival Glass of sherry on Christmas Day Visit from Father Christmas and a gift Banquet lunch & light buffet dinner on Christmas Day Journey on the Llangollen Steam Railway Excursions to Isle of Anglesey, Caernarfon, Conwy & Chester Ticket to the local pantomime in Caernarfon Scenic drive through Snowdonia National Park Wed 23 December - Sun 27 December Please see price booklet for details

TO BOOK CALL 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK Laver 2020 Brochure V64.indd 91

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Northumbrian Noel Christmas

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Durham Cathedral and Castle by twilight © Timsaxon

DURING YOUR STAY...

Enjoy our festive getaway to Northumbria which includes a delicious Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and a visit to Durham’s local pantomime. You will also get the chance to explore York, Durham and Whitley Bay, making this a Christmas to remember!

Holiday Inn Washington *** Tyne & Wear Our hotel offers comfortable accommodation with modern en suite rooms with tea and coffee making facilities and high-speed Internet access.

Day 1 – We travel to York, where we will enjoy a couple of hours at leisure. There’s so much to do in this walled city, perhaps visit the 13th century minster to admire the stunning architecture before strolling along the cobbled streets and finding a quaint café to enjoy a warm drink. After free time, we continue to our hotel for dinner and an evening of entertainment.

Day 2 – After a leisurely breakfast we visit Durham for a little free time. Home to one of the most recognisable landmarks in the UK, the majestic cathedral. We have also included a visit to the pantomime (oh, yes we have!) Dinner back at the hotel this afternoon will be followed by sing-a long live entertainment and a ‘Christmas Classic’ quiz.

Day 3 – Celebrate Christmas Day in the warmth and comfort of the hotel, surrounded by new friends. Our package will include a traditional Christmas dinner served with all the trimmings.

Afternoon tea will be served during the Queen’s Speech, and a fun bingo session hosted by the driver this evening after a delicious festive buffet.

Day 4 – This morning we visit the seaside town of Whitley Bay, which is located on the north east coast of England. St Mary’s Lighthouse is one of the borough’s main attractions, having stood as a beacon along the coastline since 1898. After some free time, we return to the hotel for a

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carvery lunch and an afternoon at leisure. This evening we will enjoy a farewell dinner dance at the hotel.

Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our leisurely journey home, enjoying comfort stops on the way.

INCLUDES 4 nights half board plus Entertainment package including ‘Christmas Classic’ quiz, bingo & dinner dance Traditional Christmas Day dinner & evening buffet Carvery lunch on Boxing Day Afternoon tea served on Christmas Day Excursions to York, Durham & Whitley Bay Visit to the pantomime in Durham Wed 23 December - Sun 27 December

5 Days

Please see price booklet for details

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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DURING YOUR STAY...

‘Ring out the old, bring in the new’ on our fabulous holiday based amidst the backdrop of the stunning Lake District. Celebrate the BIG NIGHT with a gala dinner, then blow off the cobwebs with a scenic tour of the area.

Riverside Hotel *** Kendal Cumbria Located in Kendal town centre, the hotel is a 17th century building with a state-of-the-art leisure club.

Rooms have a view of the River Kent while the restaurant uses local produce, some of which comes from the hotel’s own Victorian kitchen garden.

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 the walls. You may simply choose to browse the array of quirky shops and galleries before we head to 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. Why not browse the eclectic mix of craft, gift and antqiue shops or enjoy a cup of tea at one of the 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 INCLUDES a scenic drive around the lakes. Throughout the day we will enjoy plenty of photo opportunities Club Class coach travel and leisurely breaks, including a visit to Ullswater, 3 nights half board once described as England’s most beautiful lake.

Welcome drink on arrival On our return journey to the hotel we will travel New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner past Kirkstone Pass, the Lake District’s highest.

Hotel entertainment & Buck’s Fizz at midnight on New Year’s Eve Day 4 – We take the scenic route home through Excursions to Lancaster & Bowness-on-Windermere the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Scenic drive though the Lake District & the Yorkshire Dales Wed 30 December - Sat 2 January

4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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Eastbourne Pier & beach © Jelena Irikova

DURING YOUR STAY...

Celebrate the New Year in Eastbourne and treat yourself to a getaway with like-minded friends. Our wonderful New Year’s Eve package at the hotel includes afternoon tea, bubbly and plenty of entertainment, so you can be assured that everything is taken care of in advance, all you have to do is enjoy it!

Cumberland Hotel *** Eastbourne Situated in a whitewashed 19th century building opposite the seafront and bandstand, our iconic hotel is just a few steps from Eastbourne’s elegant promenade.

Day 1 – With comfort stops along the way, we travel to our sea front hotel in Eastbourne where hot drinks and mince pies will be served on our arrival. After a little time to settle into our rooms, tonight’s dinner will be followed by an evening of entertainment.

Day 2 – Today we take the coastal road west enjoying the panoramic views from Beachy Head and the South Downs as we head for Brighton. Why not visit The Royal Pavilion? It’s an architectural vision built for George, the Prince Regent in 1786. We return to the hotel for lunch followed by light entertainment before afternoon tea and some free time to get ready for tonight’s fabulous New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. The evening will conclude with music and dancing to take us up to midnight when we will herald the arrival of INCLUDES the New Year with a glass of bubbly!

3 nights full board Day 3 – A leisurely brunch is served this morning, Hotel entertainment each evening Tea/coffee and mince pies on arrival affording a little more time for a lie in! After you Afternoon tea and light afternoon entertainment may want to take a stroll along the seafront and enjoy the far-reaching sea views. This afternoon, on days 2 & 3 we have more light entertainment and afternoon New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Glass of bubbly to bring in the New Year tea, then later a farewell dinner and a final Leisurely brunch on New Year’s Day evening of entertainment.

Excursion to Brighton Free time in Eastbourne Day 4 – We retrace our footsteps home with comfort stops along the way.

Wed 30 December - Sat 2 January

4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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© Potters Resort

Laver Holidays are proud to invite you to another one of our signature get-togethers.

This annual break allows friends, old and new, to come together in a comfortable setting to reminisce and celebrate the year ahead. This year we will be staying at the superb five-star Potters Resort located near Great Yarmouth. Set within 65 acres, Potters is renowned for extensive leisure facilities, superb entertainment, excellent food and warm welcome.

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.

DURING YOUR STAY...

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, East Anglia’s major city which is home to one of England’s finest cathedrals and one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe. Enjoy free time to explore the eclectic mix of high street shops, malls and independent stores.

Day 3 – This morning we take you to Wroxham, situated in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, where you can enjoy the many tea rooms and gift shops that are located 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 entertainment.

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

INCLUDES 3 nights full board (4 meals per day: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, midnight dish)

Sunday night showtime with 5-course dinner & wine Live evening entertainment every night from the Potters Theatre Company Excursions to Kings Lynn, Norwich & Wroxham Fri 29 January 2021 - Mon 1 February 2021

4 Days

Please see price booklet for details

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What Our Customers Say...

“The coach was superb and the driver was extremely helpful and efficient. The quality of service was excellent.”- S.W Derby “We’ve been travelling with Laver for years.”

E.R Loughborough

“My favourite part is always meeting the other passengers, they’re always so friendly” K.D Nottingham

“The Door-to-Door service is why we always book with Laver. We have made life long friends on the trips we’ve travelled on.” - E.M Long Eaton “Wonderful weekend. Coach driver was lovely. Hotel was excellent and the whole trip was planned brilliantly.

We’re very pleased with everything, thanks Skills!” L.B Derby 96

NEED SOME ADVICE? PLEASE CALL ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY ADVISORS ON 08456 66 55 44*

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Terms & Conditions

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.

Whave arranged competitive travel insurance from Travel & General Insurance Services Limited to specifically meet your needs on your holiday. The schedule of cover below sets out a summary of the cover provided by 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 UK 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.

2. a) b) 3.

4.

5.

6. a) b)

Are you aware of any reason why the trip could be cancelled or cut short (such as the health of a close relative) Are you travelling: against the advice of a medical practitioner, or for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment.

Have you been given a terminal prognosis.

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

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

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 registered mental health professional (if you are under the care of a Community Mental Health Team), or a consultant specialising in the relevant field.

If you are travelling outside of the UK 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.

2.

3.

4.

Has or has had a medical condition (excluding childhood and minor ailments not requiring treatment).

Is taking prescribed medication.

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

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.

You must 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 your 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).

A policy document that fully defines the cover, conditions and exclusions will be sent to you with your booking confirmation. When you receive your policy, please take the time to read it carefully to ensure you understand what is and what is not covered, and that all activities that you may wish to participate in are included. If it does not meet your requirements, please return the policy, proof of premium and any other relevant documentation to us within 14 days of receipt and we will refund the premium in full, provided you have not travelled or made a claim.

Significant or unusual limitations or What is not covered 1.

The cover under this policy is only available to United Kingdom residents for travel within the Geographical limits contained in this policy and which begins and ends in the United Kingdom.

Repatriation will be to the United Kingdom only.

2.

Cover is only available for the whole duration of a booked trip to a maximum 18‐consecutive days and cover cannot be purchased once a trip has already begun.

3.

Certain hazardous sports and activities.

4.

Personal effects – claims will be paid based on the value at today’s prices less a deduction for wear, tear and depreciation (loss of value) 5.

Losses of personal property, valuables, passport, visa or money must be reported to police within 24 hours of discovery and a written police report obtained.

6.

You are not covered for valuables, your passport or visa if left unattended at any time (including in a vehicle, in checked in luggage or while in the custody of a carrier, tour operator or public transport

operator) unless deposited in a hotel safe,

safety deposit box or left in your locked accommodation.

7.

Stolen property: You are not covered for baggage stolen from: a. an unattended coach/bus unless itwas locked in the luggage compartment of the coach/bus and evidence of force or violent entry to the vehicle is available, or b. the passenger compartment of any unattended vehicle.

8.

You being under the influence of drink or drugs (unless prescribed by a doctor).

9.

Circumstances known to you before you booked your trip or purchased this insurance which could reasonably have been expected to lead to cancellation of the trip.

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