Skills 2018 Summer Brochure

BRITAIN & CONTINENTAL EUROPE

2018

STYLISH 21ST CENTURY ADVENTURES TO BRITAIN & EUROPE BY COACH | WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

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

WELCOME

Welcome to 2018

2

Hello and welcome to the Skills Holidays 2018 Summer brochure, filled with the very best events, city breaks and holidays throughout Great Britain, the British Isles, and Continental Europe from January to October in the upcoming year.

Our 2018 programme features an exciting collection of brand new excursions and unforgettable experiences, for those seeking a fresh, new adventure, either abroad or right here in the UK.

These range from ‘Kynren: An Epic Tale of England’ an unmissable performance held in County Durham (pg. 52), to wildlife spotting in the ‘Welsh Highlands’ (pg. 25); from ‘Florimania’, a fantastic Travel Duration event held at Hampton Court Palace over Mother’s Day Coach holidays of 2 days or less weekend (pg. 41), to the ‘Pageant of Power & Speed’ (pg. 44) Coach holidays of 3-8 days which will be returning to Cholmondeley Castle later this year.

We also see the welcome return of customer favourites like ‘André Rieu in Antwerp’ (pg. 57 ), ‘Channel Island Explorer’ (pg.

31), as well as our most popular breaks including our extensive British Railway programme (pg. 46), Mini Cruises (pg. 60) and returning for the February half term - Disneyland Paris (pg. 68)

Financial Protection

Start your Skills adventure today from just £30* per person

Coach holidays of 9 days or more

Deposit (per person)

£30 £50 £70

*Please note an additional 2.75% charge will be made on all credit card payments for deposits and balances* (subject to change).

These charges are in line with consumer rights (payment surcharges) regulations 2012 and cover the necessary adminstration charges covered by the company for processing credit card payments. No additional charge is applicable when using a debit card.

Please request a copy of our full Booking Conditions or visit www.skills.co.uk/terms-conditions for more information.

Skills Holidays Ltd and Skills Worldwide Travel Ltd. are members of ABTA, (V5570/77680 & E0259). This offers our customers extra protection when travelling with us, and also means we must abide by ABTA’s strict standards of service and Code of Conduct. For further information please visit www.abta.com.

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

With a trip to suit everyone’s tastes, whatever you choose, a holiday with Skills isn’t just about the destination, it’s also about the whole experience.

Skills Party Break - Page 49

Dutch Bulbfields - Page 59

Isle of Man - Page 10

New Pick-Up Locations

NE W

for 20 18

On selected holidays in this brochure, we’ve added extra pick-up’s from Chesterfield, Sheffield, Alfreton and Bulwell!

Nigel Skill Chairman, Skills Group Paignton & the English Riviera - Page 12

To make it easier for you to identify which breaks include these additional pick-ups, we’ve added the picture of our coach (see right) next to each tour.

£5

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT

HURRY OFFERS END SOON!

£10

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT

OFF

*

Per person

ANY SKILLS BRITISH OR CONTINENTAL BREAKS DEPARTING BETWEEN JANUARY AND FEBRUARY

OFF

*

Per person

ANY SKILLS BRITISH BREAKS DEPARTING FROM APRIL - JUNE 2018 FOR 4 DAYS OR MORE

Rip-Out OFF FREE £5 £10 Offers Code: EARLY2018

*New bookings only

Offer ends 09.10.2017 Limited Availability

Code: SB2018

*New bookings only

Offer ends 09.10.2017 Limited Availability

SKILLS CONTINENTAL LATE AVAILABILITY FESTIVE DISCOUNT

GIFT VOUCHERS

*

*

Per person

CONGRATULATIONS! Here are your exclusive, rip-out offers from Skills Holidays! Now, we’ve just got a few important bits to tell you about...

ANY SKILLS BRITISH BREAKS DEPARTING IN NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2017 FOR 5 DAYS OR MORE

Code: SFEST17

*New bookings only

Offer ends 09.10.2017 Limited Availability

Redeeming your vouchers couldn’t be simplier, just hand your vouchers over to one of our friendly staff members in any one of our travel shops when making a booking, or call and quote your discount code displayed on the voucher.

Discounts are only available on new and direct bookings when a valid voucher is presented (or a valid code is quoted over the phone). Discounts cannot be used on our website, or in conjunction with any other offer.

Discounts cannot be used on Mystery Explorer tours and we have the right to discontinue any of these offers at any time. Excludes Day Trips, Air, Rail & Cruise and Leger Holidays. Full terms and conditions apply, you can find these on our website.

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

SPEND £50 OR MORE ON GIFT VOUCHERS IN-STORE BEFORE DEC 2017 & GET £5 EXTRA FREE*

Voucher can be redeemed when purchasing over Code: SGIFT17 £20 worth of gift vouchers in-store.

Offer ends 30.11.2017 *

Name:

DAY TRIP LOYALTY CARD Every time you book a day trip in our shops, ask a member of staff to stamp one of the slots on the back of this card.

Once all the slots are complete present this card to the retail team for a free day trip up to the value of £20!

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*This voucher can be used in our travel stores or over the telephone by quoting the voucher reference code on the reverse. This voucher is redeemable against any Skills British breaks of 4 days or more tour advertised within this brochure, departing from 01.04.2018 – 30.06.2018. Voucher code must be presented at the time of purchase and can only be used once. Voucher applies to new bookings only and cannot be used retrospectively or in conjunction with any other offer. If this voucher is defaced, altered or has exceeded the expiry date listed, it cannot be accepted. No cash alternative. Subject to availability and the issuer reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. For full booking terms and conditions, please see our Trading Charter at www.skills. co.uk. Valid until midnight on Monday 9th October 2017.

*This voucher can be used in our travel stores or over the telephone by quoting the voucher reference code on the reverse. This voucher is redeemable against Skills British and Skills Continental breaks advertised within this brochure, departing from 01.01.2018 – 28.02.2018, excluding the Skills 2018 Party Break. Voucher code must be presented at the time of purchase and can only be used once.

Voucher applies to new bookings only and cannot be used retrospectively or in conjunction with any other offer. If this voucher is defaced, altered or has exceeded the expiry date listed, it cannot be accepted. No cash alternative. Subject to availability and the issuer reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. For full booking terms and conditions, please see our Trading Charter at www.skills.co.uk. Valid until midnight on Monday 9th October 2017

Offer ends 09.10.2017

Offer ends 09.10.2017

*Voucher can be used in our travel stores by quoting the voucher reference code on the reverse and is limited to a solo transaction. This £5 voucher is redeemable once when purchasing Gift Vouchers to the value of £50 or above.

Voucher code must be presented at the time of purchase and can only be used once. Voucher applies to new bookings only and cannot be used retrospectively or in conjunction with any other offer. If this voucher is defaced, altered or has exceeded the expiry date listed, it cannot be accepted. No cash alternative. Subject to availability and the issuer reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. For full booking terms and conditions, please see our Trading Charter at www.skills.co.uk. Usual gift voucher terms and conditions apply. Valid until midnight on Thursday 30th November 2017.

*This voucher can be used in our travel stores or over the telephone by quoting the voucher reference code on the reverse. This voucher is redeemable against Skills British breaks of 5 days or more advertised within this brochure, departing from 01.11.2017 – 31.12.2017, excluding ‘Christmas in Pitlochry – Gateway to the Highlands’. Voucher code must be presented at the time of purchase and can only be used once. Voucher applies to new bookings only and cannot be used retrospectively or in conjunction with any other offer. If this voucher is defaced, altered or has exceeded the expiry date listed, it cannot be accepted.

No cash alternative. Subject to availability and the issuer reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any time. For full booking terms and conditions, please see our Trading Charter at www.skills.co.uk. Valid until midnight on Monday 9th October 2017

Offer ends 30.11.2017

Offer ends 09.10.2017

DAY TRIP

LOYALTY CARD

If you’re looking for a great day out this year, then look no further!

From heritage railways to flower shows, and theme parks to theatre trips Skills Holidays has something for the whole family and now you can claim a FREE DAY TRIP* with our Day Trip Loyalty Card!

Every time you book a day trip in-store, ask a staff member to sign one of the Skills Coaches (on the back of the card), once all 10 of the Coaches have been signed, present this card in-store for a FREE Day Trip* DATE

DAY TRIP

february

Sun 04 Emmerdale Mon 05 Kensington Studio Experience Palace: Diana’s Sat 10 York Fashion Story Shopper with Lunch Sun 11 East Lancashire Steam Railway & Cream

EVEN MORE

ADULT CHILD

£42 £40

NOVEM BER£27

Stay over on

CHOICE WITH

a CoachStyle

Break from only £39 Pick from a wide £59.95! £23 breaks, designed range of themed, fun & exciting, with you in mind! budget-busting CHILD £27 ADULT

Tea Fri 16 Beautiful TRIP £18 £18 COACHSTYLE DAY Bath FAVOURITE £34 £34 Sun DATE 18 The Making DATE S Christmas Shopper TOUR &£23 £23 ADULT CHILD Wed of Harry Liverpool Potter £16 Fri 21 03 Hull: Christmas: Hobbycrafts £64 £52£30 DAY Deep 06 forAquarium £45 £35 Fri 23Sat 04 The Crafts FROM £52 Oct Royal Philharmonic DAY TRIP NEW Royal Observatory Orchestra £27 £25 £64 Materials Live Presents Queen £18 £18 & Court Palace ThamesArt £18 £18 07 Oct Fawlty River Cruise of Harry Potter MUST Sun 01 Hampton £21 £21 Sat 24 FriEmmerdale Towers 2 SEE £18 10 The Making £129.95 08 Oct Blackpool Festive Shopper Studio £39 £31 £18 Cardiff Fri 06 CambridgeIlluminations 2 Experience Illuminations £21 £21 Sun 25 Sat NEW Markets £89.95 11 Knowsley 14 Oct Party NEW £15 £15 & Christmas £42 Night Safari Shopper Market £42 Sat 07 Blackpool Park £22 £22 £69.95 15 Oct Blackpool - Newcastle & Durham 2 Sun 12 Leeds Frankfurt Christmas£28 2 Hall £27.50 Sat 07 Whitby £69.95 £52 £39 REMEMBERFri 20 Oct Chester Illuminations Birmingham TO 17 CHECK OUR WEBSITE: Market at Haddon £19 £19 2 £69.95 Artisan Sun 08 London Eye & River Cruise 21 Oct Legoland& Snowdonia WE’RE ADDING £22 £22 Fri 17 NEW NEW TOURS ALL 3 & Windsor £21 21£21 Cream Tea £139.95 THE TIME! Oct London Sun 08 London -Water with £18 £18 & Bakewell 2 & Harry Potter £45 22£31 £99.95 Oct Blackpool St Nicholas Fair Market Thu 12 Bourton-On-The £21 £21 2 Illuminations Derby Shopping Village Fri 17 York £119.95 28 Oct Leeds Christmas Below show the Sat 14 Bicester Illuminations COLLECTION & York 2 £64 £52 Chatsworth Christmas pick-ups 18and routes £19 £69.95 may change due Sat THE THURSFORD £1904 Nov from these destinations.

Quays Victorian Liverpool Chester to passenger loadings.

2 Sat 14 Blackpool of Harry Potter £36 £29 Please note: £75.95 Full pick-up 18 Gloucester £19 London &Mansfield Sat locations Making £1910 Nov will be provided information, including Routes and pick-ups Best Kept Secret £18 £18 & Sat 14 The at the time of £65 Market NEW Shopping Centre 2 £15 Mystery Bluewater booking.

Park - Britain’s Marketdeparture times and £1511 Nov Bletchley 2Nottingham Explorer Christmas 15 £21 Sun £69 Tours District 11 Nov £21 £21Party Night Sat 18 Harrogate Lighting up the Peak £21 2 £59.95 16 Nov£16Harrogate - DurhamArnold Tue 17 Ludlow & York £21 £21 NEW Sat 18 Castleton: 2 Christmas Market £16 £75 17 Nov 3 Day Christmas Market Fri 20 Whitby Illuminations £27 £25 PICK-UPS Bargain Break: £21 2 Sun 19 Chester £21 £75 Christmas Market 18 Nov London North Wales Sat 21 Blackpool Deep Aquarium £37 £33 NOW AVAILABLE Manchester 3 & Harry Potter Sun 19 ON £129 Wonderland The 18 Nov £28 Hall £30 Haworth & Leeds Sat 21 Hull: TOURS* 2 £27 £25SELECTEDSun Hyde Park Winter Beast at Tissington 19 £28 £119.95 Christmas Zoo 18 Mansfield Nov Winchester £32 & The Market 2 Park Sun 22 Chester Christmas £49 £43(LOOK OUT £69 20 NEW Beauty Stitching Show - Harrogate 25£19 Nov £19 MonFOR Midland Safari Winter Wonderland Market 2 Knitting & Wed 25 West £79 £42 £37 THIS SIGN!) 25 Nov Birmingham in Hyde Park Fri 24 The FLAMINGOLAND £15 £15 2 Christmas Market Christmas Market £69 Fri 27 Legoland World & Sea life Centre 25 Nov Ludlow £22 £22 £27 Medieval Sat 25 St Albans Christmas Market Arnold 2 £79 Christmas Fayre 26 £35 Sat 28 Cadbury Nov £42 £32 NEW £28 2 Sat 25 Bakewell Christmas £28 Edinburgh £85 02 Dec Howard at Christmas Fayre Sun 29 Windsor Castle Winchester ChristmasMarket £21 £21 3 Sat 25 Castle Medieval Christmas £15 £15 £129 Nottingham Market Sun 29 Windsor & Whitby Derby Market 09 Dec London 2 £24 & Harry Potter Sun 26 Ludlow £79 Spa Yuletide 09 Dec £24 Oxford Leamington Tue 31 Heartbeat Christmas Market 2 £119.95 16 Dec WinterTIME! Sun 26 NEW 2 Christmas Market £89 TOURS ALL THE Wonderland in Hyde Park 16 For more information Sun 26 Bath ADDING NEW Dec Mystery

OCTOB ER

DATE

Take a look at our extensive range of Day Trips available throughout the year, or request your FREE Days Out leaflet at: www.skills.co.uk

routes & pick-ups

EVEN MORE

CHOICE WITH

Additional pick-ups

explained

WE’RE on our new routes please OUR WEBSITE: include;

TO CHECK call us on 08456 66 West Bridgford, only £59.95!

REMEMBER 55 44* Please note: Routes Bingham, Keyworth Break from budgetand pick-ups may and Loughborough. a CoachStyle fun and exciting, Stay over on departure times change due to passenger loadings. and locations will Full pick-up information, range of themed, be provided at including the time of booking.

Pick from a widedesigned with you in mind. busting breaks, ES

YLE FAVOURIT Derby

COACHST DATE

TOUR

of Pariliament 04 Aug Houses & Windsor 05 Aug Legoland& Buckingham Mansfield Palace 07 Aug London Experience Who 19 Aug Dr & Harry Potter Arnold 19 Aug London & Greenwich 26 Aug London & Harrogate 26 Aug York The Tour & York von 01 Sep Emmerdale & Stratford-Upon-A 02 Sep Warwick

DAY

FROM

Explorer CoachStyle Party Break

2 2 2

£69 £59.95 £75

OF THE WORLD CROCODILES how do i book?VISIT: WWW.COACHSTYLE.CO

how do i book?

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information

£99.95 shops 2 our travel calls to 0845 at *AllVisit Mansfield Road numbers cost Nottingham, NG6 2 Call us£99.95 per8LY Rd, 3p minute plus Visit us online yourheldexcursion will be approx.

Belgrave direct on 4-5 Bulwell, responsible forChilwell hours from your your company’s access Road £99.95 direct on* www.skills.co.uk atbeyour charge Please any traffic, weather arrival time, unless us us 2 08456 66 online Beeston, chosen Call note the duration 55 44 * Visit Market or venue conditions destination. otherwise at 44 our Centre 55 Booking conditions www.skills.co.uk of Nottingham however, Derby, Eagle travel shops cost 3p per£89 Street available upon which may affectstated, prices are25 a week 08456 66 plusVisit 2Calls Swan based minute plus your the approximatewe cannot Nottingham, on 2-15 years request or downloadable hours, 7 days your company’s access 24 Mansfield unless otherwise duration £119.95 WhenLoughborough, Road Bulwell, Belgrave a child charge on our website.

3p per minute stated at time cost 24Calls 2 hours, All children fromage is stated, eg 4-11 years, Child Rd, NG6 8LY of booking.

7 days a week access charge Beeston, this is the age company’s £74.95 Chilwell Road the attraction,2 years old must occupy a seat range that the Derby, Eagle 2 they will need tourist attraction Centre Market to pay for the on the coach and although classes as a child.

Loughborough, £74.95 seat on the coach. they 25 Swan Street 2 Please ask formay receive free admission TISSINGTON Registered Head Days Out - November price at timeAT BEAST Skills Days Out £99.95 of booking. to Belgrave Road, BEAUTY & THE - February 2018 is part of the Office, 2 of Nottingham, -.indd 1 Skills Group.

NG6 8LY. the duration Visit www.skillsdaysout.co.uk £74.95 Please note we cannot 2 for access charge *

COACHSTYLE.CO.UK VISIT WWW.

you love to a Treat someone £5 to £100 from gift voucher 55 44* Call 08456 66 today! or pop instore

06 Jan

NEW

PICK-UPS NOW AVAILABLE ON SOME DAY TRIPS*

(West Bridgford, Bingham, Keyworth & Loughborough.)

*

inform ation important

however, duration otherwise stated, plus your company’s time, unless may affect the approximate Child cost 3p per minute your arrival our website.

0845 numbers 4-5 hours fromor venue conditions whichor downloadable on *All calls to will be approx. weather upon request at time of booking. your excursion for any traffic, conditions available otherwise stated Booking be held responsible classes as a child. to destination.

2-15 years unless admission tourist attraction at your chosen prices are based on range that the they may receive free of booking. this is the age coach and althoughask for price at time eg 4-11 years, Please a seat on the age is stated, When a child 2 years old must occupyfor the seat on the coach. pay NG6 8LY. All children from they will need to for further info.

Road, Nottingham, the attraction, Office, Belgrave Registered HeadSkills Group. Visit www.skillsdaysout.co.uk is part of the Skills Days Out

NOVEMBER 2017

- FEBRUARY 2018

R 2017 WWW.S AUGUST - NOVEMBE KILLSDAY further info.

SOUT.CO.UK

AYSOUT.CO.UK WWW.SKILLSD

7/24/2017 9:37:07 AM

*Valid for one free day trip up to the value of £20 for the loyalty card owner. Offer can only be used on new bookings. Subject to availability. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Loyalty card can only be used and redeemed in a Skills or Laver branch. Loyalty card offer will expire at midnight on 31.12.2018.

Gift Vouchers Once complete, exchangeable for a free day trip up to the value of £20

VALID UNTIL: 31.12.2018 Terms & Conditions apply

Pick up one of our popular holiday gift vouchers in-store now, with values from just £5 to £100 available you can make any occasion just that extra bit special!

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

Our Heritage

The company prides itself on being a family business, and these strong values have remained througout the years. Skills is currently run by brothers Nigel Skill (Chairman) and Simon Skill (Financial Director) alongside Peter Hallam (Operations Director) - who originally started at the company as an apprentice mechanic in the 1970’s.

ESTABLISHED 1919 Founded by Arthur Skill, Skills Motor Coaches originated in Nottingham in 1919. At that time Arthur used his only lorry to collect fish from the early morning market and for light haulage during the day. Soon, he began carrying local miners to Bestwood Colliery, and in 1921 he purchased a Crossley Charabanc - Skills’ first true bus!

THE SKILLS FAMILY Nigel and Simon Skill began to work with the family business while still at school. During the school holidays they and their two brothers and sister would help to clean the coaches and then see them off from Skills Bus Station at the bottom of Derby Road, Nottingham.

DRIVING FORWARD in 1987, Nigel and Simon Skill bought the firm and became directors. Driving the business forward they introduced Continental tours in the late 1970s, and have since continued to invest in a first class fleet of modern vehicles, offering luxury coach hire and coach tours.

1919 - 2019: CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS The Skills Group has gone from strength to strength, and are now only one year away from their Centenary Celebrations! Keep your eyes peeled for special events throughout the year in preparation for the 100th birthday.

HOW THE SKILLS LOGO HAS EVOLVED...

est.1919 (Est 1919)

(2001 - 2011)

(2011 - 2014)

(2014 - present)

est.1919 CALL US 08456 66 55 44* OR VISIT WWW.SKILLS.CO.UK

By 1927, Skills were running day trips to Bridlington, Scarborough, Mablethorpe, Skegness, Cleethorpes and Southend-on-Sea!

HERITAGE

With over 98 years of experience, the Skills Group has remained one of the market leaders, becoming one of the most popular and famous coach companies in the region.

CEL EBR ATE &C OMM EMO RAT E

5

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

Joining your holiday

We offer you a great range of travel options for you to choose from, so when it comes to getting your holiday started, it couldn’t be simplier with Skills!

LOCAL PICK-UP POINTS

DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE

For your convenience we offer 6 regular joining points across the East Midlands, including Loughborough and Leicester for our shorter holidays and an additional 5 joining points for longer duration holidays, including Sheffield and Chesterfield.

These joining points are designed to provide as many local connections as possible without creating long journeys. For more information on any of our joining points please call us, or visit our website www.skills.co.uk.

PARK & RIDE SERVICE

On selected holidays you can choose to park your car at our Head Office (located just off the M1, junction 26)*. *Additional charges apply. Confirmation and payment for this service must be made at the time of your booking, spaces are limited to a first come first serve basis. Prices start from £30 per vehicle for 2/3 day holidays.

Where can I book?

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, have a question or already know the holiday for you, call into any of our Skills or Laver travel shops and our friendly and knowledgable team will be happy to help you. You can find the location of our Skills and Laver travel shops below:

Skills Head Office Belgrave Road Bulwell NG6 8LY 0115 9770 080

We want to make sure your journey is as comfortable as possible, from start to finish. That’s why we can arrange for a local taxi service to collect you from your home and take you to the nearest pick-up point, where the coach will be waiting. On your return journey, the taxi will take you back home*. *Additional charges apply. Prices quoted are return journeys. We reserve the right to pick-up additional passengers on route and may substitute another vehicle if appropriate. Taxi pick-ups must be booked and paid for no less than 28 days prior to departure. Taxi’s which are used on a Bank Holiday will incur a 25% increase per person.

FEEDER COACH SERVICE

Occassionally we may use a free feeder coach to transport you to a convenient pick-up location, this is to save time and ensures that no one is waiting too long to begin their holiday.

Skills Worldwide Travel 104 Chilwell Road Beeston NG9 1ES 0115 9222 441

Skills Holidays Mansfield Road Nottingham NG1 3FB 0115 9507 982

Laver Holidays Eagle Centre Market Derby DE1 2AZ

Laver Holidays Swan Street Loughborough LE11 5BL

01332 384 000

01509 236 500

Keep up to date with our latest news and offers on Social Media!

Skills Holidays

66

@SkillsHolidays

Skills Holidays

SkillsHolidays1919

*Please note - All calls to the 08456 66 55 44 number featured in this brochure cost 3p per minute plus your company’s standard access charge.

Booking Conditions Information Please read before booking.

The following information highlights some of the more important terms and conditions which apply to your booking. These are NOT our full Terms and Conditions. All bookings are subject to our full Terms and Conditions which you can find on our website: www.skills.co.uk/terms-conditions. A copy of these can also be e-mailed or posted to you on request. By asking us to make your booking, you confirm you have had access and agree to our full Terms and Conditions, which you should read and familirise yourself with.

Prices are correct at the time of going to print, but may increase or decrease at a later date. 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.

Our holidays may be subject to a minimum number of bookings in order to operate. For all holidays, the deadline for deciding if suffucuent passengers have booked to travel for the tour to operate, is the date by which full payment of the holiday must be made. In the event that minimum numbers have not been reached, we reserve the right to cancel your holiday and refund all monies paid.

We will not be liable or pay you any compensation where the performance of our contractual agreement has been prevented or affected by Force Majeure, for example this includes delay, cancellations, change of itinerary, change of accommodation, change of transport.

Force Majeure is any 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 beyond our or the supplier(s) control.

These events include, but are not limited to; strikes, riots/civil unrest, government acts, hostilities, war, threat of war, terriost activity or threat of terriost activity, hurricanes, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, flood, tornadoes, hurricanes, transportation and mechanical problems, airport closures, and severe weather conditions.

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 of money recieved for your Package in the unlikely event that a Member cannot, for financial reasons, carry our their obligation to their passengers.

PAGE 8 8 9

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WALES PAGE NEW All Inclusive Llanberis: Llandudno & Portmeirion 24 Picturesque Pembrokeshire

24 NEW Welsh Highlands, Anglesy & Puffin Island 25 Bluebells at Kew Gardens - Page 41

accommodation key

We use simple symbols in our brochure so you can quickly identify the facilities that are offered at each hotel.

Kynren - Page 52

Bar

WiFi Available

Restaurant

Spa/Wellbeing

Café

Swimming Pool

Lift

Gym

SCOTLAND NEW Secret Islands & Waterways of Scotland Stunningly Royal Scotland NEW Victorian Scottish Steam Break NEW Orkney & the Castle of Mey Oban & the Isle of Mull

PAGE 26 26 27 28 29

CHANNEL ISLANDS PAGE Jersey Explorer 30 Glorious Guernsey & the Isle of Herm 30 Channel Island Explorer: Guernsey, Jersey & Herm 31 Jersey by Air 32 Guernsey by Air 32 Isles of Scilly 33 Colourful Cornwall & the Scilly Isles 34 Isle of Wight 35

SPECIAL EVENTS PAGE The Haunted Ribble Valley & Pendle Witches 50 Halloween Special 50 NEW Jamie Oliver’s Cookery School 51 Spa Break 51 NEW Kynren: An Epic Tale of England 52 The Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo 53 Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza 54 NEW Haworth 1940’s Weekend 54 NEW Tall Ships Regatta: Liverpool 54 SKILLS CONTINENTAL EUROPE

55

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

ENGLAND

PAGE Isle of Man 10 Captivating Gardens of Cornwall 11 Paignton & the English Riviera 12 NEW Devon & Somerset Steam & Cruise 12 Enchanting Eastbourne 13 Brighton & Arundel 13 NEW Dorset Escape: Weymouth, Poole & Bournemouth 14 Kent ‘Call the Midwife’: Canterbury & Whitstable 15 Hampshire & Downton Abbey 16 Maritime Britain: Bucklers Hard Museum & Portsmouth Dockyard 17 Thames Tales River Cruises

17 NEW Norfolk Seaside Villages 18 Exploring Norfolk & the Sandringham Estate 18 Warners: Gunton Hall, Suffolk 19 NEW Shrewsbury, Ironbridge & Blists Hill 20 NEW Cotswolds & the Blossom Trail 20 NEW Cheshire Gardens & Cruising the Manchester Ship Canal 21 Scarborough: Discovering the Yorkshire Coast 22 Spring or Autumn Colours in the Lake District 22 NEW Tales of Northumberland: Hadrian’s Wall, Vikings & Hexham 23 Northumbria Explorer 23

CRUISE HOLIDAYS PAGE British Isles Discovery Cruise 36 Scottish Highlights & Emerald Isle 37 Scottish Islands & Faroes 37 CITY BREAKS PAGE 4* Liverpool 38 The Waldorf: 5* Luxury in London 38 London Mini Break 39 The Sights of London: The Shard & River Cruise 39 FLOWERS SHOWS PAGE RHS Chelsea Flower Show & Kew Gardens 40 RHS Chelsea Flower Show 40 NEW Florimania at Hampton Court Palace 41 Bluebells at Kew Gardens 41 BBC Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace 41 RHS Hampton Court Flower Show 42 NEW RHS Cardiff Flower Show 42 RHS Tatton Park Flower Show 42 NEW Malvern Autumn Show 43 Harrogate Flower Show 43 Southport Flower Show 43 SPORTING EVENTS PAGE NEW Cholmondeley Castle: Pageant of Power 44 Goodwood Festival of Speed 44 Goodwood Revival 44 Ladies day at Ascot 45 GREAT BRITISH RAILWAYS PAGE NEW Railways & Waterways of Gloucestershire 46 Railways & Waterways of Lancashire 46 Railways & Waterways of Yorkshire 46 Severn Valley Railway & Ludlow 47 Settle to Carlisle Railway 47 SPECIAL INTERESTS PAGE NEW The Royal Mint & Cardiff Castle 48 Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park 48 Bath, Stonehenge & Salisbury 48 Skills Party Break 49 Chinese New Year in London 49 Valentine’s Weekend in Cheltenham & Gloucester 49

CONTENTS

Skills British Contents

EASTER BREAKS Easter in Eastbourne NEW Easter in Gloucester & the Cotswolds Easter in Yorkshire Easter Special: Settle to Carlisle Railway

7

EASTER EasterBREAKS Breaks

Easter in Eastbourne

includes • Return coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Welcome tea/coffee & hot cross bun in hotel • Easter egg • Hotel entertainment • Excursions to Tunbridge wells, Brighton & Eastbourne

T LEMEN P P U GLE S IN S O N

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

Eastbourne © Arndale

includes

• Return coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Easter egg • Excursions to Worcester, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water & Cheltenham • Free time in Gloucester

Cotswolds Hills and Severn Valley © Joe Dunckley

After a phenomenal visit in 2017, we celebrate Easter in Eastbourne. Returning to the Cumberland Hotel, you’re perfectly situated to explore the Victorian pier, awardwinning sandy beach and colourful gardens in bloom. We also include excursions to the iconic Beachy Head, wonderful Brighton and Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Spring is in the air and it’s the ideal time to get away for a little rest and relaxation. This year, visit Gloucester and the Cotswolds for an Easter to remember! Enjoy excursions to Worcester, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water & Cheltenham – don’t forget to keep an eye out because we might have hidden an Easter egg somewhere for you!

Day 1 – Following pick-ups, we travel to Royal Tunbridge Wells, where you can discover splendid examples of stately homes, gardens and award-winning parks.

Day 1 – Our first stop is Worcester. The city is best known for its magnificent Cathedral, but is also famous for the world renowned Worcester Porcelain! After some free time, we continue to the hotel.

winning Carpet and seafront gardens, located by the pier. These gardens are the world-famous centrepiece of Eastbourne’s elegant seafront.

Day 2 – Today we include a brief stop at Day 4 – After a leisurely morning we retrace Beachy Head, the UK’s highest chalk sea our steps home. cliff and one of the most photographed places in Eastbourne, before continuing to Brighton. Enjoy the famous Brighton Pier and Promenade or the Royal Pavilion - the grand seaside palace of George IV. Day 3 – Explore Eastbourne at leisure today.

Why not enjoy a stroll around the award

HOTEL H

Cumberland Hotel, Eastbourne

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NEW Easter in Gloucester & The Cotswolds

Overlooking the promenade, the Cumberland Hotel is close to the town centre and boasts sea views.

4 Days from £239 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 30 Mar 4 £239 N IL

American horticulturist, Major Lawrence Johnston. Explore the maze of narrow paved pathways and discover its colourful secret gardens and magnificent vistas. This afternoon we travel to the quaint villages of Stow-on-theWold and Bourton-on-the-Water. These two quintessential English towns sit elegantly at the heart of the Cotswolds.

Day 2 – Today we take you into the city of Gloucester for free time. A day here wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the 11th century Gloucester Cathedral, resting place of King Day 4 – Enjoy a relaxing morning in the Edward II and home to the majestic Great East comfort of the hotel. Later, we will take you Window. to Cheltenham for a little free time before continuing our journey home.

Day 3 – After breakfast, we visit Hidcote Manor, this famous garden was created by

HOTEL 4H

Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall Hotel, Surrounded by acres of grounds, this elegant country hotel boasts modern and stylish rooms.

4 days from £249 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 30 Mar 4 £249 £75

Settle to Carlisle Railway Easter Special TOUR

L OUT L E S 2017

TOUR

includes

• Return coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Hotel entertainment • Easter egg • Journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway • Excursions to York, Whitby & Bridlington • Free time in Scarborough

Steam train © Anyaivanova

Ribblehead viaduct © Settle to Carlisle Railway

This Easter, enjoy the seaside delights of the Yorkshire Coast. On this short break we combine the romance and atmosphere of everyone’s favourite seaside towns with the dramatic views along the famous North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Day 1 – We travel to Harrogate for free time before continuing to our hotel later this afternoon. As one of Yorkshire’s most elegant destinations perhaps prebook a spot of lunch at Betty’s Tea Room or visit the iconic 19th century Pump Room, home to the town’s fashionable Spa history.

Day 1 – We travel to York for free time.

When it comes to history and character, few cities in the world rival this picturesque riverside city. After free time we travel to our hotel in Scarborough.

Day 3 – After breakfast, we visit the York National Railway Museum for free time before returning home. Here you can soak up the nostalgic atmosphere and experience working life in a station.

Day 2 – Today we visit Whitby and after a little time to explore, we board our steam train for the ultimate journey along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Skipton for free time. Later, prepare for a spectacular journey on the renowned Settle to Carlisle Railway. This journey passes through tunnels and over viaducts.

HOTEL 3H

The Holiday Inn offers tastefully decorated and comfortable accommodation.

3 days from £179 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 30 Mar 3 £179 £ 25

Please note: Images shown are for advertising purposes, and train type may differ on your trip.

HOTEL 3H

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure in Scarborough. From the rugged rocky headland and colourful seaside traditions of the South Bay, to its wealth of history and the iconic castle, Scarborough has all the ingredients you need for a wonderful day out.

Day 4 – After breakfast we take you to Bridlington before we return home later this afternoon.

Red Lea Hotel, Scarborough

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Join us for an Easter getaway you’ll never forget, on an extraordinary journey through the most stunning landscapes in the north of England on one of the UK’s most amazing railway journeys!

Holiday Inn Darlington, Scotch Corner

EASTER BREAKS

L OUT L E S 2017

includes

• Return coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Settle to Carlisle Railway • Excursions to Harrogate, Skipon & York National Railway Museum

Easter in Yorkshire Featuring North Yorkshire Moors Railway

4 days from £269 dates

days from s/supp

Situated on the South Cliff, guests Fri 30 Mar 4 £269 NIL can benefit from the indoor heated Please note: Images shown are swimming pool and free Wi-Fi. for advertising purposes, & train type may differ on your trip.

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

BRITISH ISLES

E* CKAG A P S K S DRIN E D U L INC Isle of Man Douglas

includes • Return coach travel • Return ferry crossings • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Drinks package* • Excursion to Laxey, Ramsey, Peel & Castletown • Free time in Douglas

Isle of Man The Isle of Man is simply magical, journey back in time with Skills as we visit this enchanting island with excursions to Laxey, Ramsey, Peel and Castletown. Filled with stunning scenery, unspoilt beaches and a rich history spanning over 8000 years, this is a getaway you don’t want to miss. highlights of your stay Day 1 – Departure by coach north to Ramsey to explore our way to Castletown for to Heysham where we the busiest shopping street an afternoon to explore board our ferry to Douglas. on the Island. its 600-year-old castle, built around a picturesque Day 2 – Discover the Day 3 – Enjoy a day at harbour. holiday island on our full leisure in our seafront hotel. day excursion to Ramsey The beautiful promenade is Day 5 – We bid a fond and Laxey. Situated on lined with welcoming bars farewell and return home. the East Coast Laxey is a and restaurants and the picturesque village. Once a high street is filled with a thriving mining and fishing variety of shops giving you village, it was home to the plenty to see and do. world’s deepest mines in the 1800’s. The Great Laxey Day 4 – Today we enjoy a Wheel, ‘Lady Isabella’, was morning in Peel, home to used to pump water out of a modern marina, sandy the mines and is still the beaches and Peel Castle largest working waterwheel which dominates the in the world. We then head landscape. We then make

“Did you know, in 2016 the Isle of Man has been recognised as one of the best places in the world to explore nature.”

HOTEL 3H

Chesterhouse Hotel, Douglas

The Chesterhouse offers a luxurious stay that ranks amongst the best offered on the island.

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*These dates include an exclusive drinks package at the hotel (1 free house drink with dinner & 2 nights entertainment)

5 days from £399 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 07 Apr* 5 £399 £50 Sun 24 Jun 5 £469 £50 Thu 11 Oct* 5 £399 £50 Sea view rooms available at an additional supplement.

Captivating Gardens of Cornwall highlights of your stay

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Trebah Gardens, Lost gardens of Heligan & The Eden Project

Cardiff

Weston-Super-Mare

Newquay Eden Project

Trebah Gardens

Lost Gardens of Heligan

ENGLAND

Discover the captivating gardens of Cornwall on this bloomin’ brilliant break!

With excursions to Trebah Garden, The Lost Gardens of Heligan and the world-famous Eden Project; home to a flourishing range of rare, exciting and beautiful plants and trees.

includes

“Hotel is in a lovely position on seafront, food was excellent and we couldn’t fault the staff. Overall brilliant.” - Mrs O’Leary Day 1 – Following pickups we make our way to Cornwall.

HOTEL 3H

Cliffdene Hotel, Newquay

The hotel offers panoramic views over Tolcarne Beach and offers free Wi-Fi.

and a Mediterranean microclimate.

Day 5 – We retrace our footsteps home.

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Lost Gardens of Heligan.

A genuine secret garden that was lost for decades, Heligan is now one of Day 2 – This morning we the finest award-winning visit Trebah Gardens, a gardens in Cornwall. sub-tropical paradise with a Over 200-acres are now a stunning coastal backdrop. paradise for the explorer, Enjoy free time and discover wildlife, plant lover and the magic of this beautiful garden romantic.

Cornish valley garden with over 4 miles of footpath.

Day 4 – Today, we Explore under canopies have planned a full day bursting with exotic blooms excursion to the Eden and follow vibrant tunnels Project. The world-famous as Trebah Gardens come environmental complex alive right before your very comprises of two eyes. domes that contain two different biomes.

Day 3 – After a leisurely Tropical (the world’s morning we travel to the largest indoor rainforest)

5 days from £399 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 20 Aug 5 £399 £40

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ENGLAND

Paignton & the English Riviera GLE NO SIN

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Torquay, Polperro & Looe • Free time in Paignton

MENT E L P P SU

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

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Famous for its swaying palm trees, piers and golden coastlines, Paignton & The English Riviera brings a touch of the Mediterranean to Britain! On this break, we also visit the idyllic destinations of Torquay, Polperro and Looe!

“An all round great holiday. Thank you Skills” Day 2 – Today we visit Torquay; fringed by palm trees and boasting miles of golden, award-winning beaches, Torquay offers a nostalgic holiday experience with a contemporary twist!

Day 3 – Explore Paignton at leisure today.

Away from the award-winning beach you will find Paignton Zoo, or why not enjoy an extra adventure on the Dartmouth Steam Railway & Riverboat company who offer trips from the town (Not included).

- Mrs C Shabbir

Day 4 – Our first stop today is Polperro, this picturesque village clings to a steep hillside and offers spectacular views of the enchanting landscape and sea. After some free time, we travel to Looe; situated on both sides of the River Looe, East Looe and West Looe are joined together by a bridge and each offer an entirely different experience! East Looe is the main tourism centre, and is home to a collection of narrow streets lined with shops, cafés and pubs that lead through to the main town beach.

Day 5 – We return home.

HOTEL 3H

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Ride on the Ilfracombe Princess boat & Grand Western Canal • Journey on the West Somerset Railway • Free time in Ilfracombe & Dunster • Free time in Bideford

Steam train passes through fields © Anyaivanova

Paignton harbour © creativeoneUK

Day 1 – We travel to Paignton.

NEW Devon & Somerset Steam & Cruise

5 days from £299

Cambria Hotel, Paignton

dates

Located on Paignton’s seafront, the Cambria Hotel is perfectly placed for us to enjoy the magnificent views of Torbay.

Mon 04 Jun 5 £299 NIL Mon 09 Jul 5 £299 NIL Mon 24 Sep 5 £299 NIL

days from s/supp

All aboard! Join us as we explore the delights of Devon. On this break, we include a journey on the West Somerset Railway, as well as cruises along the Grand Western Canal – one of the last remaining horse-drawn barges in England and the Ilfracombe Princess.

Day 1 – Following our morning departure, we travel to our hotel in Bideford.

Day 4 – We pass through stunning scenery as we travel towards Dunster, via the picturesque Exmoor National Park. The Day 2 – This morning, we visit Ilfracombe medieval village of Dunster boasts over 200 for a spectacular wildlife and coastal cruise listed buildings from the National Trust’s on board the Ilfracombe Princess. Don’t 11th century Dunster Castle to the Old Yarn forget to bring your camera, as we float Market. We then continue to Minehead along one of the most dramatic coastal where we enjoy a journey on the West landscapes in England.

Somerset Railway – the longest heritage railway in England. Our journey will take us Day 3 – After breakfast, we travel to past the gentle rolling Quantock Hills, an Tiverton, where we have arranged a horseArea of Outstanding Natural Beauty and drawn barge trip on the Grand Western through unspoilt villages.

Canal, one of the last remaining horsedrawn barges in the UK. Day 5 – After a fascinating break, we begin our journey back home.

HOTEL 3H

Durrant House Hotel, Bideford

5 days from £319 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 09 Apr 5 £ 319 N IL* The Durrant House Hotel enjoys superb views across North Devon’s *Limited availability. Please note: Taw Estuary & provides comfortable Images shown are for advertising bedrooms and a restaurant. purposes, and train type may differ on your trip.

Enchanting Eastbourne

includes

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights bed & breakfast • Excursions to Chichester, Worthing & Arundel • Free time in Brighton • Optional excursion to Arundel Castle*

Y ERAR IN T I ED REVIS

Brighton beach © Khrizmo

Beachy Head, Eastbourne © Harvepino

Brighton is one of the most popular destinations in the UK! On this break we include visits to Chichester, Arundel and Worthing, with the chance to explore Arundel Castle on our optional excursion*!

“We have had a superb holiday, hotel top class and the choice of food was excellent. Thank you! - Mr & Mrs Simonite

Day 1 – Following local pick-ups, we take you Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to Arundel straight to Brighton. for free time, combining one thousand years of history with independent shops, Day 2 – This morning we visit Chichester contemporary art galleries, cafés and Day 1 – Leisurely journey to Eastbourne.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Bexhill-onnestled at the foot of the South Downs. delightful drinking spots all for you to enjoy.

Sea, this elegant resort is home to the De Chichester is home to a magnificent Or why not join us for an optional excursion Day 2 – After breakfast, we travel to Lewes; Le Warr Pavilion, one of the UK’s finest surrounded by picturesque chalk cliffs, the examples of modernist architecture, Bexhill Cathedral and beautiful gardens to explore. to Arundel Castle and Gardens*; founded Today we also enjoy free time in Worthing, a at the end of the 11th century, it has been townscape is dominated by the remains Museum and a picturesque Old Town. This classic British seaside town. the family home of the Dukes of Norfolk of a Norman castle and is home to the afternoon we take you to Hastings; here you and their ancestors for almost one thousand handsome townhouse of Anne of Cleves. can explore the remains of the first castle Day 3 – Explore Brighton in your own time years! (*£21 per person - please enquire at After some free time, we visit Brighton. in England, built by William the Conqueror today, from the stunning heritage and time of booking).

Brighton’s colourful network of shopping or simply enjoy a quiet corner to watch the history hidden at the Royal Pavilion to the streets known as The Lanes are awash with world go by. seaside fun at Brighton Pier, the Brighton Day 5 – After a leisurely breakfast, we vintage clothes, antiques and quaint cafés.

Wheel and the famous pebble beach. Today retrace our footsteps home.

Day 5 – We travel home. you can do as much or as little as you want.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure.

HOTEL H

The Cumberland Hotel overlooks the famous promenade and is a short walk to the town centre.

5 days from £299 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 25 Jun 5 £299 NIL Mon 17 Sep 5 £309 NIL

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Brighton Located on the vibrant Brighton seafront, the Holiday Inn Brighton offers a bar and restaurant with a terrace that has views of the beach.

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

Leave your cares behind as we visit enchanting Eastbourne, renowned for its British charm, elegance, chalk cliffs and award-winning beaches. We include visits to Lewes, Brighton, Bexhill & Hastings.

Cumberland Hotel, Eastbourne

ENGLAND

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Eastbourne • Excursions to Lewes, Brighton, Bexhill & Hastings

Y ERAR IN T I ED REVIS

Brighton & Arundel

5 days from £329 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 06 Aug 5 £329 £ 140

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includes London

ENGLAND

Evershot Lyme Regis

Poole Weymouth

Bournemouth

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Lyme Regis, Weymouth, Poole & Bournemouth • Free time in resort

NEW Dorset Escape: Weymouth, Poole & Bournemouth

Prepare for an enchanting Dorset escape, on this relaxing break to some of the UK’s most beautiful areas we include visits to Salisbury, Lyme Regis, Weymouth, Poole and Bournemouth.

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highlights of your stay Day 1 – Our first stop today is the medieval city of Salisbury, where we spend a couple of hours at leisure. Known as the ‘City in the Countryside’, Salisbury is surrounded by a luscious green landscape, the city itself is home to the famous Magna Carta, historic streets and some of England’s finest historic houses and museums. We arrive at our hotel later today.

the heart of the Jurassic Coast. Of course, no visit is complete without a stroll along its historic Cobb, dating back to the 13th century. Later, enjoy a relaxing afternoon back at the hotel and perhaps take advantage of the on-site spa* available to guests.

full day excursion visiting the beautiful seaside resorts of Poole and Bournemouth. Poole is known for Europe’s largest natural harbour, awardwinning blue flag beaches (including the worldfamous Sandbanks Beach), a bustling quayside and a beautiful historic old town.

Day 3 – After a leisurely While Bournemouth is a morning, we visit vibrant and colourful resort Weymouth – one of the with a cosmopolitan and UK’s most beautiful seaside cultural town centre. resorts, blessed with one of the sunniest and warmest Day 5 – After breakfast, climates. The town offers feeling refreshed and a great mix of beautiful relaxed we re-board the beaches, rich heritage and coach and enjoy a leisurely top-visitor attractions which journey back to the East you can enjoy in your own Midlands. time today.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Lyme Regis; set against moody blue cliffs, this historic seaside town is nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where the rugged west Dorset and east Dorset coastlines meet – at Day 4 – Today we enjoy a

HOTEL 3H

George Albert Hotel, Evershot

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Surrounded by scenic Dorset countryside, it features stylish bedrooms and a modern restaurant.

5 days from £369 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 07 May 5 £369 £80 *Additional fees and booking may apply.

Kent: ‘Call the Midwife’: Canterbury & Whitstable

• Door-to-Door service • Return coach travel • Breakfast bags on our coach • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • ‘Call The Midwife’ tour • River cruise • Excursions to Cambridge, Canterbury, Whitstable & Chatham Docks

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DOOR

SERV ICE

Cambridge

Oxford London Chatham Dock Yard

Sittingbourne

Whitstable Canterbury

ENGLAND

Enjoy Kent: ‘Call The Midwife’, Canterbury and Whitstable, as we go behind the scenes of the hugely popular TV series ‘Call The Midwife.’ On this break, we’ll also enjoy a river cruise in the ancient city of Canterbury and excursions to Cambridge and Whitstable

includes

DOOR

highlights of your stay Day 3 – After a leisurely morning, we take you to Whitstable; this traditional seaside town is perhaps most famous for its oysters, which remain an essential part of the town’s character and is even celebrated!

Day 4 – Today, we visit Chatham Docks where our Day 2 – We visit very own ‘midwife’ will Canterbury, this afternoon greet us on the Second we have arranged a relaxing World War Destroyer HMS cruise on the River Stour – CAVALIER to begin our flowing through the heart ‘Call the Midwife Tour.’ of historic Canterbury, this The midwife will take is the perfect way to escape you on a guided tour of the crowds and enjoy the various film locations some of Canterbury’s most used in the hit BBC drama. stunning and important The Historic Dockyards’ architectural highlights. authentic cobbled streets,

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Sittingbourne

The stylish Holiday Inn blends period features with modern, luxurious additions.

industrial buildings and fine Georgian and Victorian architecture have provided the backdrop for an array of period films since the 1980s. After your guided tour follow the special film train to some of the most frequently used sites and see if you can spot where the 2013 movie adaptation of Les Miserables, starring Anne Hathaway and Russell Crowe, was also filmed.

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Day 1 – Our first stop today is Cambridge; perhaps take this opportunity to enjoy a leisurely break in a charming tea room or quaint coffee shop, spilling out onto the bustling Market Square. After some free time, we travel to our hotel.

Day 5 – After a leisurely break, we return home.

5 days from £359 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 06 Aug 5 £359 £ 60 ‘Call The Midwife’ Tour © Virgin Experience Days

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Y ERAR IN T I ED REVIS Banbury

ENGLAND

Oxford

Swindon Jane Austen’s House Museum

Highclere Castle

London

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Watercress Line • Entry to Highclere Castle & Gardens, Jane Austen’s House Museum & Bombay Sapphire Distillery • Excursions to Oxford & Banbury

Hampshire, ‘Downton Abbey’ & the Watercress Line

Re-visit historic Hampshire in good company! On this break we include entry into Jane Austen’s House Museum, a nostalgic journey on the Watercress Line Railway and we’ll even be returning to the home of ITV’s hit TV series ‘Downton Abbey’ – Highclere Castle.

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

highlights of your stay

Jane Austen’s House and Museum © Amanda Lewis

Day 1 – After early pick-ups we make our way to Oxford.

Renowned for its grand history and heritage, this city offers so much to see and do.

Perhaps visit one of the many world-class museums.

world-famous gin. Explore the distillery in your own time with an interactive map and finish off your experience with a complimentary drink in the Mill Bar! Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 2 – 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.

Day 4 – Our first stop today is Jane Austen’s House Museum, home to one of Britain’s most loved authors.

Here you will be able to explore the house where Jane Austen lived and wrote.

The cottage itself houses a collection of artefacts whilst retaining the charms of an early 19th century home.

This afternoon we have

Day 3 – This morning we visit the Bombay Sapphire Distillery to uncover the secrets and artistry of this

Day 5 – After breakfast, we bid a fond farewell and make our journey home via Banbury, famed for its Banbury Cakes and the peaceful Oxford Canal.

“The castle was amazing. Kept expecting ‘Carson’ to appear through the door. The gardens were lovely too.” - Mrs Hallam HOTEL 3H

Jurys Inn, Swindon

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arranged a journey on the Watercress Line travelling through the heart of the English countryside; the perfect way to relax and unwind.

The Jurys Inn Swindon boasts a selection of modern and stylish bedrooms with excellent customer service.

Highclere Castle

5 days from £389 dates

days from

s/supp

Mon 23 Jul 5 £389 £ 100

Maritime Britain: Buckler’s Hard

Thames Tales River Cruises

includes

Museum & Portsmouth Dockyard

HMS Warrior © Tony Baggett

• Return coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • 1 night bed & breakfast • 4 river cruises

UR UT TO

ELL O S 7 1 0 2

London skyline © Victor Huang

Sail along the UK’s second longest river on this fabulous four-cruise tour. Take in the sights from the waters as you sail from Oxford right down to Greenwich over four days, making some beautiful and breathtaking stops along the way.

Day 1 – Following pick-ups, we travel to beaches, a vast array of shops and beautiful Oxford - home to Britain’s oldest university. gardens.

Day 1 – This morning we travel straight to the enchanting city of Oxford, after a little free time we board the first of our cruises along the river Thames. This relaxing cruise will take us to Abingdon-on-Thames; one of the oldest towns in the country. Then we continue to our first hotel; the 4 star Hilton Reading.

in central London, allowing you to take in some of London’s famous Landmarks.

You will then have some free time in the city before heading to your hotel - the Hilton Docklands Riverside. This evening is yours to explore the fashionable London Docklands, maybe have dinner at one of the nearby riverside pubs or restaurants.

Day 2 – Today we drive to Caversham Bridge and join our boat for a cruise taking us to the beautiful town of Henley, best known for its world-famous Annual Regatta.

Day 4 – After breakfast, we make our way to Westminster Pier where you board the fourth and final boat for a cruise down the Thames to Greenwich. On arrival, you will have some time at leisure to enjoy Greenwich which is home of the famous Cutty Sark.

Day 4 – Today we have arranged a full day excursion starting at Buckler’s Hard Museum, which provides an insight into the history of this 18th century shipbuilding village including its vessels built for Nelson’s Navy. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely cruise along the River Beaulieu with on-board commentary and history about the surrounding area.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Day 5 – After a leisurely breakfast, we Bournemouth, the largest resort in Dorset. return home.

Bournemouth boasts 7 miles of sandy

HOTEL 3H

Hinton Firs, Bournemouth

Surrounded by landscaped gardens, Hinton Firs Hotel offers an indoor swimming pool and a games room.

Day 3 – After breakfast, we travel to Kew where we board our boat to Westminster

5 days from £339 dates

days from

s/supp

Mon 16 Jul 5 £339 £ 40

HOTELS 4H

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

Discover Britain’s maritime history on this exciting break! With visits to Portsmouth Dockyard - renowned as being one of the most important docks in the world - and Bucklers Hard Museum, we also include a cruise along the Beaulieu River.

Day 2 – After breakfast we take you to Portsmouth Dockyard, situated in a working Naval base, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the only place in the world where you can discover the past, present and future of the Royal Navy and is home to a collection of fantastic attractions, historic ships and museums for you to enjoy.

ENGLAND ENGLAND

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Welcome drink • Excursions to Oxford, Portsmouth Dockyard & Buckler’s Hard Museum; Beaulieu River Cruise • Free time in Bournemouth

includes

4 days from £329

Hilton Reading, Reading dates days from s/supp & Fri 08 Jun 4 £329 £100 DoubleTree Hilton, Fri 07 Sep 4 £349 £100 Docklands Riverside

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NEW Norfolk Seaside Villages

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Wells-Next-the-Sea, Hunstanton, Cromer & Sheringham

ENGLAND

MENT UPPLE

GLE S IN S O N

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

Hunstanton Chalk Cliffs

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to King’s Lynn & Cromer • Entry to the Sandringham Estate & the Thursford Collection • Wroxham cruise

Y ERAR IN T I ED REVIS

Sandringham House © Sandringham Estate

Whether classic seaside charm, beautiful wildlife or golden beaches are your thing, you’ll find them all on this break to Norfolk’s Seaside Villages. With leisurely excursions to Wells-next-to-Sea, Hunstanton, Cromer and Sheringham.

This break is packed with wonderful attractions from start to finish. The highlight is a visit to Sandringham House – the much-loved country home of The Queen. We also include a Broads cruise and visits to the Thursford Collection, King’s Lynn and Cromer.

Day 1 – After this morning’s pick-ups we travel straight to our hotel.

Day 1 – We visit King’s Lynn, full of history, this vibrant town is the ideal destination to spend a couple of hours at leisure.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Wells-nextthe-Sea for free time. Made famous by the ITV drama ‘Kingdom’, this part of north Norfolk forms part of the largest coastal natural reserve in England and Wales, with Wells-next-the-Sea being a haven for wildlife.

Later, we travel to the elegant resort of Hunstanton, renowned for its unique striped cliffs and magnificent views.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure in Cromer.

Situated on a cliff-top overlooking fine sandy beaches, Cromer is a wonderful

place to explore! Famous for its delicious crab delicacies, Cromer is also home to a traditional seaside pier with a Lifeboat Station and Pavilion Theatre.

Day 4 – Today, we take you to Sheringham for free time. After a delightful stroll along the promenade, home to a row of colourful beach huts, perhaps head into town and enjoy a relaxing lunch in one of the town’s many pubs, cafés and tea rooms.

Day 5 – After breakfast, we retrace our footsteps home.

HOTEL 3H

The Manor Hotel, Norfolk

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Exploring Norfolk & the Sandringham Estate

This Manor Hotel is close to the beach and offers striking views of the Norfolk Coast.

5 Days from £339 dates

days from s /supp

Mon 01 May 5 £339 NIL

Day 2 – This morning, we travel to Wroxham where we have arranged a river cruise for you to enjoy – these boat trips offer a fabulous opportunity to discover the enchanting landscape of the Norfolk Broads, with a full commentary onboard so you don’t miss a thing! Afterwards, enjoy free time at leisure.

Day 4 – Today we visit the Sandringham Estate, where we have included entry. The Sandringham Estate is the much-loved country retreat of HRH Queen Elizabeth II. Set in 24-hectares of stunning gardens and woodland, the house is perhaps the most famous stately home in Norfolk.

Day 5 – After breakfast, we take you to the Thursford Collection; home to the world’s largest collection of steam engines and organs, before returning home.

Day 3 – After a relaxing breakfast we visit Cromer, famous for its tasty crabs, wide open beaches and a traditional pier.

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Norwich Located in Norwich, the Holiday Inn boasts an indoor swimming pool, a garden with a terrace and an onsite bar and restaurant.

5 days from £345 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 03 Sep 5 £345 £ 80

Leave your cares behind as we escape to Gunton Hall. This relaxing seaside destination is within walking distance of the beach, yet it is surrounded by beautiful Suffolk woodland, gardens and a picturesque lake, which give it a distinctly rural feel! highlights of your stay a quiet browse in some of the many independent shops.

network of ancient cobbled streets and pedestrianised walkways.

Day 3 – Enjoy a full day at Day 5 – After breakfast, we leisure in our resort. After return home. a morning of activities perhaps visit the leisure club where you can unwind and relax in the sauna and Day 2 – We visit Southwold steam room or take a dip for free time, the town’s in the indoor swimming dramatic coastline and pool before enjoying an beautiful old-world evening of fantastic food charm make it a popular and entertainment. attraction throughout the year. Take advantage of its Day 4 – Enjoy free time cosy pubs, enjoy a peaceful in Norwich, where you walk along the beach or can explore the city’s

HOTEL 4H

Warner’s Gunton Hall, Suffolk

Surrounded by 55-acres of gardens, woodlands and picturesque lakes, Gunton Hall offers a wide range of leisurely activities & entertainment.

Hotel Facilities: Shuffleboard Air Rifle shooting Indoor bowls Croquet Indoor heated pool Bubblepool Table Tennis Steam room & sauna Snooker

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

Day 1 – We travel to Gunton Hall, our Warner holiday resort in Suffolk.

During our stay, the resort will be hosting ‘Variety Live’ featuring a great comedy act, a fabulous vocalist and live music throughout the week

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Evening entertainment programme • Free time to enjoy the extensive leisure facilities in our Warner’s resort • Excursions to Southwold & Norwich

PLEME NT

WARNERLEISURE LEISURE WARNER

Warner’s: Gunton Hall, Suffolk

includes

NO S INGLE SUP

5 Days from £289 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 12 Mar 5 £ 289 N IL

19

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

ENGLAND

NEW Shrewsbury, Ironbridge & Blists Hill

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Ironbridge Gorge, Ludlow, RAF Cosford Museum & Shrewsbury • Entry to Blists Hill Victorian Village

includes • Return coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Gloucester Warwickshire Railway • Guided tour of the Blossom Trail • Excursions to Worcester, Bourton-on-the-Water, Tewkesbury, UptonOn-Severn, Ledbury and Hereford

Where better to learn about the UK’s Industrial revolution than at its birthplace! On this break, we include visits to Shrewsbury, Ludlow, RAF Cosford Museum and the unique Ironbridge Gorge, once described as the ‘most extraordinary districts in the world’ as well as entry into Blists Hill Victorian Village.

The Blossom Trail is one of the ‘Top Wonders of Spring’ – bringing a blend of soft pink tones that contrast beautifully with white blossoms. This enchanting break will take you through some of the most wonderful villages in England including; Worcester, Bourton-on-the-Water, Tewkesbury, Upton-On-Severn, Ledbury & Hereford.

Day 1 – We travel to Ludlow for a little free time before travelling to our hotel.

Day 1 – We head to Worcester, home to one of the loveliest Cathedral’s in England for free time, before arriving at our hotel.

Day 4 – After breakfast, we visit the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford. The museum is home to over 70 international important aircrafts which are housed in 3 Wartime hangers, including the world’s oldest Spitfire and a Lincoln Bomber.

Day 2 – Our first stop today is to the impressive Ironbridge Gorge before making our way to Blists Hill Victorian Town. Here, you can experience life as it was over 100 years ago through the sights, sounds, smells Day 5 – This morning we take you to and tastes of a recreated Victorian town!

Sunnycroft, this National Trust property is a late Victorian Villa, originally built in 1880.

Day 3 – This morning we head to Sunnycroft is a rare, unaltered villa furnished Shrewsbury birthplace of Charles Darwin. with original wallpapers and Maw tiles. After Shrewsbury is one of England’s finest a little free time, we return home. medieval market towns and the shopping centre is packed with timber-framed buildings.

HOTEL 4H

The Telford Whitehouse Hotel, Telford

20

includes

NEW Cotswolds & the Blossom Trail

This hotel boasts extensive health & leisure facilities including a sauna, solarium, Jacuzzi & steam room.

5 days from £259 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 26 Feb 5 £259 £75

Day 2 – We take you to Evesham, here we will be joined by a local guide who will accompany us for a tour of the idyllic Blossom Trail. We begin at Pershore, before continuing through Fladbury & The Lenches. You will have time to call into a local farm shop for the opportunity to purchase local produce or perhaps enjoy a coffee. Then, later this afternoon we visit Toddington for a journey on the Gloucester Warwickshire Railway to Cheltenham.

Day 3 – Today we take you on a scenic tour through some delightful historic towns with leisurely stops in Tewkesbury, famous for its ancient Abbey, and the pretty towns of Upton-upon-Severn, Ledbury and Hereford.

Later, we enjoy a photo stop in the Malvern Hills – this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is famed for its dramatic hills and landscape.

Day 4 – This morning we visit Bourton-onthe-Water. This popular little village is often described as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ and is full of charismatic charm all year round.

HOTEL 4H

Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove The Holiday Inn offers stylish bedrooms and a health club with a heated swimming pool, sauna & steam room.

4 days from £239 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 20 Apr 4 £239 £ 50

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Entrances into Arley Hall & Tatton Park • Manchester Ship Canal cruise • Scenic drive through the Peak District • Free time in Chester & Buxton

Manchester Liverpool Tatton Park

Arley Hall & Gardens

Chester

Buxton

Join us as we combine some of the finest gardens in Cheshire and the country, along with a unique trip on the historic Manchester Ship Canal.

Peak District National Park

ENGLAND

NEW Cheshire Gardens & Cruising the Manchester Ship CanaL

includes

highlights of your stay Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

So, sit back and relax as we journey through wonderful scenery, through locks Day 3 – After a relaxed and under bridges, which morning, we head to Tatton have remained largely Park. This historical estate unchanged for over 100 is located in 1000 acres of years. beautiful deer park. Enjoy free time to explore the Day 5 – After breakfast, Day 2 – This morning we former Egerton family home our driver will take you on visit Arley Hall & Gardens and gardens this afternoon. a scenic drive through the for free time. The estate Peak District, enjoying a dates to the 12th Century Day 4 – Cruise along the short but leisurely stop in and the Gardens, which Manchester Ship Canal Buxton, before continuing are amongst the finest in today, one of Britain’s back home.

Britain, have been carefully most historic waterways created over the last between Liverpool Pier 250 years. Renowned for Head and Salford Quays. their vitality, variety and This fascinating cruise, with historical interest – the informative commentary Herbaceous Border is its along the way, is as awe best-known feature here. inspiring as it is relaxing!

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Chester South

The Holiday Inn Chester South features a stylish restaurant & spacious bedrooms.

St Ives Weymouth Falmouth

St. Mary’s

Plymouth

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

Day 1 – After local pick-ups we travel to the Roman city of Chester, here you will have a little free time to enjoy the city sights and vibrant atmosphere. Later today, we will arrive at our hotel.

5 days from £369 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 06 Aug 5 £369 £80

21

ENGLAND

Scarborough: Discovering the Yorkshire Coast GLE NO SIN

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Hotel entertainment • Free time in Beverley & Bridlington • Excursions to Whitby, Scarborough, Harrogate & York • Optional excursion to Castle Howard

T LEMEN P P U S

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

Discover the charming seaside treasures along the Yorkshire Coast in good company.

On this getaway, we include excursions to Whitby, Scarborough, Harrogate, York and Bridlington and in-house entertainment will be provided during your stay.

“Hotel was very clean and the staff were excellent”

Day 2 – Enjoy free time in Whitby. Steeped in history, this ancient fishing port offers something whatever the weather!

22

- Mr Campbell

travelling to York, where we will enjoy the rest of the afternoon.

Day 4 (Sep only) – Full day excursion to the historic city of York, rich in ancient history and attractions. Alterntaively, join us for an optional excursion to Castle Howard* (*£20 per person - please enquire at time of booking).

Day 3 – Day at leisure in Scarborough. After you’ve explored the castle, why not treat your taste buds to an award-winning dish in Day 5 – After breakfast we travel to Bridlington, the star of the 2016 Dad’s Army one of Scarborough’s many restaurants. film. After some time we continue the Day 4 (Feb only) – This morning we take you journey home. to the elegant spa town of Harrogate, before

HOTEL 3H

Red Lea Hotel, Scarborough Situated on the South Cliff, guests can benefit from the indoor heated swimming pool and free Wi-Fi.

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway • Excursions to Skipton, Lake Windermere, Bowness & Lancaster Leisure Park • Entrances to Muncaster Castle & The World of Beatrix Potter

Y ERAR IN T I D E REVIS

© Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

Scarborough

Day 1 – Today we visit Beverley, a wellknown market town. After free time we continue to our hotel.

Spring or Autumn Colours in the Lake District

5 days from £239 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 12 Feb 5 £239 N IL Thu 27 Sep 5 £319 £50 Itinerary days 1, 2, 3 & 5 will remain the same for both dates.

Experience the splendour of England’s largest National Park! On this break we include a must-do journey on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway as well as trips to Skipton, Lake Windermere, Bowness, Muncaster Castle and The World of Beatrix Potter.

Day 1 – We travel to Skipton for free time, awarded Best Small Outdoor Market in 2017, perhaps visit Skipton’s famous market. After some free time, we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Muncaster Castle, one of Britain’s most haunted castles! Set in 77 acres of woodlands, enjoy a wander around the Castle and gardens before heading to the Hawk and Owl Centre. Later today we also enjoy a journey on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, one of the oldest and longest narrow gauge railways in England, known affectionately as ‘La’al Ratty’ meaning ‘little railway.’

Day 3 – Enjoy today at leisure, set in 20 acres of private gardens, relax in the comfort of the hotel which overlooks Morecambe Bay. Day 4 – Today we have planned an excursion to the glistening shores of Lake Windermere, where we have included entrance to The World of Beatrix Potter.

Afterwards enjoy free time in Bowness, located right in the heart of the National Park, it is one of Cumbria’s most popular destinations!

Day 5 – After breakfast we travel home via Lancaster Leisure Park.

HOTEL 3H

5 days from £329 Cumbria Grand Hotel OR dates days from s/supp Gretna Hall Hotel Mon 16 Apr 5 £329 £65 65 Your hotel will be confirmed at the Mon 08 Oct 5 £335 £ time of booking.

Please note: Images shown are for advertising purposes, & train type may differ on your trip.

NEW Tales of Northumberland: Hadrian’s Wall, Vikings & Hexham

includes

includes • Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Durham, Angel of the North, Hexham, Alnwick Castle & Gardens • Guided tour of Hexham Abbey • Scenic drive around Northumberia Coast • Entry into the Beamish Museum

UR UT TO

ELL O S 7 1 0 2

ENGLAND

• Return coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Salts Mill, Hadrian’s Wall, Vindolanda & Lancaster • Visit to Carlisle Castle with introductory talk • Journey on the South Tynedale Railway • Guided visit to Hexham

Northumbria Explorer

Alnwick Castle cr Darren Turner

Day 1 – On the way to the hotel we enjoy a little free time at Salt Mills, this former textile mill is now an art gallery, shopping centre and restaurant complex.

a spectacular World Heritage Site. We then visit Vindolanda; home to Britain’s ‘Top Treasure’ – the Vindolanda Writing Tablets.

One of Europe’s most important Roman archaeological sites, the on-site museum Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Carlisle provides a breathtaking exploration of the Castle, standing proudly in the city. After an Trust’s ongoing discoveries and accounts introductory talk, enjoy free time to explore of Roman Life. Later this afternoon, our this mighty fortress. Afterwards, we have journey takes us to Hexham, once the haunt arranged a journey on the South Tynedale of marauding Vikings 1300 years ago, today Railway, so sit back and enjoy the ride as we Hexham proudly holds the title of England’s travel through the stunning landscape of the favourite market town! north Pennines Areas of Natural Beauty.

Day 4 – Our first stop today is Lancaster, Day 3 – Today, a Blue Badge Tourist Guide perhaps take this opportunity to visit will join us on the coach as we follow the ‘Military Road’ that shadows Hadrian’s Wall, Lancaster’s Castle to uncover the city’s ancient stories before we return home.

HOTEL 3H

Crown & Mitre Hotel, Carlisle

The grand Crown & Mitre Hotel is situated in the centre of Carlisle city centre and retains its Edwardian-style traits.

4 days from £329 dates

days from s/supp

Sun 07 Oct 4 £329 £40

“Very good value for money and great excursions. Definately booking 2018!” - Mrs J Loveday-Brown Day 4 – Enjoy a full day excursion around the Northumbria Coast – via our coach! We drive to Berwick-Upon-Tweed first before enjoying a coffee stop at the Barn at Beal.

This converted 19th century barn offers Day 2 – Today we travel to Alnwick Castle fantastic views overlooking the Holy Island. & Gardens, where we have included entry.

Afterwards, we drive to Bamburgh for free Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited time and also enjoy a stop at the village of castle in England, and it featured as the Seahouses. magnificent ‘Brancaster Castle’ in Downton Day 5 – After breakfast we visit the Beamish Abbey’s 2016 Christmas special. museum, which re-creates the story of life in Day 3 – This afternoon, we visit Hexham for north east England during the 1820s. a guided tour of Hexham Abbey.

Day 1 – We visit Durham, home to one of the most recognisable landmarks in the UK, Durham Cathedral. Then, enjoy a short photo stop at the Angel of the North.

HOTEL 3H

Jury’s Inn, Gateshead Overlooking the River Tyne, the Jury’s Inn Gateshead offers comfortable accommodation with a coffee shop and a relaxed riverside restaurant.

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

Let us take you on an epic tale of Northumberland! On this break we visit Carlisle Castle, Hadrian’s Wall, the Roman Vindolanda and Hexham – all whilst revealing stories of Viking life. We also enjoy a journey on the South Tynedale Railway.

Sweeping landscapes and areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty form the background for this break to Northumbria, with excursions to Alnwick Castle & Gardens, Hexham Abbey, the Beamish Museum and a scenic tour of the Northumbria Coast!

5 days from £369 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 02 Jul 5 £369 £ 80

23

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

WALES

NEW All Inclusive Llanberis: Llandudno & Portmeirion RAVEL T S S CLA CLUB

Castles, stunning Coastlines & Vineyard includes

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Hotel entertainment • Entrance into Picton Castle & Gardens and Colby Woodland Garden • Tour & Tasting at Cwn Dei Vineyard • Excursions to Solva, St Davids Narberth & Tenby • Free time in Carmarthen

• Club Class coach travel • 4 nights All-Inclusive stay includes: - 3 packed lunches - Free tea/coffee - Unlimited house draught beer, larger, wine & selected soft drinks (between 7pm – 11pm) • Porterage • Tea/coffee on arrival • Evening entertainment • Excursions to Conwy & Llandudno • Entry to Portmeirion • Free time in Llanberis

Tenby harbour © Khrizmo

Enjoy this all-Inclusive break to beautiful north Wales! Staying at the foot of Mount Snowdon, this exciting new trip combines award-winning beaches with fascinating history as we include admission to the uniquely captivating village of Portmeirion and enjoy excursions to Conwy & Llandudno.

Discover a beautiful corner of the UK on this picturesque break to Pembrokeshire.

Explore spectacular coastlines, gorgeous gardens, and castles with included excursions to Picton Castle & Gardens, Colby Woodland Garden, Newgale, Solva, St David’s, Narberth, Tenby and a tour and tasting at Cwn Dei Vineyard.

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we travel to our hotel in north Wales. On arrival tea and coffee will be served for you to enjoy.

Day 1 – Travel straight to the hotel.

Day 2 – We visit Conwy this morning. Conwy is a town rich in history, with much of it still preserved within the walls and its mighty 13th century castle. Surrounded by lush Welsh countryside, it’s a beautiful place to sit down and enjoy a refreshing drink. Later, we visit the seaside resort of Llandudno, the town’s immaculate seafront, framed by two headlands is a British seaside classic.

walk beside the water, or take in the stunning surroundings on a journey on the Llanberis Lake Railway or the Snowdon Mountain Railway.

Day 4 – Today we have arranged a full day excursion to Portmeirion, this unique village is set on its own private peninsula and was created by the architect Clough WilliamsEllis from 1925 to 1976. Surrounded by 70 acres of sub tropical woodland gardens, Portmeirion is made up of around 50 buildings.

Day 3 – Enjoy free time to explore Llanberis. Day 5 – After breakfast we begin our return After a leisurely breakfast enjoy a casual journey home.

HOTEL 3H

The Royal Victoria hotel, Llanberis

24

includes

Picturesque Pembrokeshire:

Situated at the foot of Mount Snowdon, this hotel offers comfortable rooms.

5 days from £299 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 05 Mar 5 £ 299 £40

Day 4 – After breakfast we head to National Trust’s Colby Woodland Garden, set in a Day 2 – Our first stop today is Picton Castle tranquil secret valley, this hidden woodland & Gardens, where we have arranged a tour garden with a rich industrial past is full of of the castle. After a little free time, we surprises. After a couple of hours to explore, re-board the coach and journey through we visit Narberth for free time – perhaps Newgale, along the stunning coastline, visit Narberth Castle ruins and discover until we reach Solva. Nestled in the the fascinating legends that are attached Pembrokeshire National Park, this beautiful to it. Later this afternoon we visit Cwn Dei harbour village boasts a bustling quay and a Vineyard where we have arranged a tour charming high street dotted with cafés, craft and tasting. shops and galleries to enjoy. Later, we travel the short distance to St Davids, the smallest Day 5 – After breakfast we visit the town in the UK. pictuesque resort of Tenby, before we return home.

Day 3 – Time at leisure in Carmarthen.

HOTEL 3H

Ivy Bush Hotel, Carmarthen

Recently refurbished, the hotel blends its old world charm with modern facilities.

5 days from £369 dates

days from s/supp

Thu 09 Aug 5 £369 £48

NEW Welsh Highlands, Anglesey & Puffin Island

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Ffestiniog Railway • Anglesey & Puffin Island Cruise • Entrance into Penrhyn Castle • Scenic drive of the coastline • Visits to Llandudno, Caernarfon & the Isle of Anglesey

The Isle of Anglesey

Puffin Island

Llandudno

Penrhyn Castle Caernarfon

Llanberis

WALES

Join us in the Welsh Highlands for an unforgettable stay! On this wonderful new break, we include a journey on the Ffestiniog Railway, a fascinating cruise around Puffin Island and have included excursions to Anglesey, Llandudno, Penrhyn Castle and Caernarfon.

includes

Snowdonia National Park

highlights of your stay

HOTEL 3H

The Royal Victoria hotel, Llanberis Situated at the foot of Mount Snowdon, this hotel offers comfortable rooms.

over the Menai Straights, towards the impressive Beaumaris Castle where we enjoy a short photo stop!

Built in 1295, and although unfinished, Beaumaris Castle is regarded as one of the finest Edwardian castles.

Later, 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 though, and you might be lucky enough to spot one of the resident puffins, grey seals and bottle nose dolphins!

Day 5 – After breakfast, we enjoy a relaxing journey back home.

Evershot Lyme Regis

Poole Weymouth

Bournemouth

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

Day 1 – After this morning’s Victoria. The 60-acres pick-ups, we travel to our of parkland and gardens hotel in Llanberis. that surround the castle offer spectacular views of Day 2 – Sit back, relax Snowdonia and the north and enjoy the views from Wales coast. the comfort of the coach this morning, as we travel Day 3 – Today we have along the beautiful North arranged a journey on Wales Coastline towards the Ffestiniog Railway, Llandudno, for free time. from Blaneau Ffestiniog to Llandudno’s immaculate Porthmadog. Stretching for seafront, gracefully framed miles through the glorious by two headlands, is a Snowdonia National Park, seaside classic and even the Ffestiniog Railway is after 150 years it’s still one of the world’s greatest a popular resort. After a railway journeys. little time to explore, we Day 4 – Our first stop today continue to Penrhyn Castle. is historic Caernarfon, Now a National Trust home to one of the most property, this 19th century famous Castles in Wales; neo-Norman Castle is home Caernarfon Castle (entry not to a fine art collection and included). After a little free is bursting with fascinating time here, and perhaps a items, including the 1 tonne quick refreshment, we travel slate bed made for Queen

London

5 days from £399 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 27 Aug 5 £399 £40 We cannot guarantee any wildlife sightings on this break.

25

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

SCOTLAND

NEW Secret Islands & Waterways of Scotland

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Welcome drink at hotel • Hotel entertainment • Visit to Inchocolm Island & Isle of Arran • Tour of the Isle of Arran • Entry to Brodick Castle • Calmac ferry cruise & Loch Lomond Cruise

Stunningly Royal Scotland

includes

Y ERAR IN T I ED REVIS Glamis Castle

Scone Palace

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Pitlochry • Excursions to Scone Palace, The Black Watch Castle & Museum and Glamis Castle

Many great adventures have started in Scotland – where will yours take you? On this break This break to Stunning Royal Scotland offers a fascinating mix of rich history, myth and we explore the Secret Islands and Waterways of Scotland. With included boat trips to the legend with simply stunning landscapes for you to enjoy. From Pitlochry – one of Scotland’s Inchcolm Island, the Isle of Arran - with a guided tour, and a cruise around Loch Lomond. most beautiful places, we visit Scone Palace, The Black Watch Museum and Glamis Castle.

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel.

Day 2 – Today we have arranged a spectacular sightseeing boat trip onboard the Maid of the Forth, which will take us over to Inchocolm Island for free time.

Considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the Firth of Forth, it is home to a 12th century Abbey originally founded by King David I.

Day 4 – Known as the Queen of the Scottish Lochs and the largest expanse of fresh water in Great Britain - today we experience the magic of Loch Lomond, from the comfort of our final boat trip. This leisurely circular cruise passes along the world-famous Loch Lomond Golf Club, explores the middle ‘secret’ island of Loch Lomond and sails through an area known to the locals as ‘The Narrows’. Then onwards towards the pretty conservation village of Luss.

Day 3 – This morning we enjoy another wonderful boat trip onboard the CalMac ferry, which will take us over to the Day 5 – After breakfast, we enjoy a relaxing picturesque Isle of Arran. Once on the island, journey back home. we have arranged a guided tour for you and entrance into Brodick Castle.

HOTEL 3H

The Winnock Hotel, Drymen

26

includes

The Winnock Hotel is set in an 18th century building and its restaurant serves traditional British cuisine.

5 Days from £459 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 15 Oct 5 £459 £70 *Itinerary days are subject to change.

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in Pitlochry.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Scone Palace.

As one of Scotland’s most important stately homes; Scone Palace has an exciting and colourful history that you won’t want to miss! Throughout its lifetime it has been the seat of parliament and the crowning place of the Kings of Scots, including Macbeth and Robert The Bruce. This afternoon we travel to Balhousie Castle – home to the Black Watch Museum – which tells the story of the iconic Black Watch Regiment, Scotland’s premier Highland Regiment.

Day 3 – Day at leisure in resort or take a local bus to Queen’s View overlooking Loch Tummel, one of the most photographed areas in Scotland.

Day 4 – After breakfast, we visit Glamis Castle; the beloved childhood home of the Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. This stunning Scottish treasure looks more like a French château, but has witnessed over 600 years of history.

Day 5 – After breakfast, we wave goodbye to our hosts and retrace our footsteps home.

“Lovely and very busy break. The hotel setting is fab and the food is fantastic!” - Ms Whiston HOTEL 3H

Fishers Hotel, Pitlochry This elegant hotel provides guests with a cosy lounge with a real log fire and regular live music nights.

5 days from £379 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 24 Sep 5 £379 £ 65

NEW Victorian Scottish Steam Break

includes

• Return coach travel • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Welcome drink & hotel entertainment • Loch Katrine cruise It’s full steam ahead on our new Victorian Scottish Steam break! Join us for this • Ride on the Falkirk Wheel • Journey on Bo’Ness & Kinneil Steam nostalgic mix of river and rail as we enjoy a steam cruise along Loch Katrine, Railway with cream tea a ride on the Falkirk Wheel and a journey on the award-winning Bo’Ness & • Afternoon tea & dance Kinneil Steam Railway with a cream tea.

SCOTLAND

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Drymen Bo’Ness

Falkirk

SCOTLAND

Edinburgh

Glasgow

highlights of your stay Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we take you straight to the hotel in Drymen, on arrival we enjoy a welcome drink and porterage will be provided for you.

Day 3 – We begin our day with a ride on the famous Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boatlift!

Afterwards we enjoy a journey on the Bo’Ness & Kinneil Steam Railway with a cream tea served

HOTEL 3H

The Winnock Hotel, Drymen

The Winnock Hotel is set in an 18th century building and its restaurant serves traditional British cuisine.

on board. Soak up the atmosphere on this awardwinning heritage railway as we meander through woodlands, past waterfalls and over the Avon Viaduct.

Day 4 – After a leisurely morning, this afternoon we take you to nearby Loch Lomond where we have arranged a dance and afternoon tea.

Day 5 – After breakfast, we return home.

The Isle of Anglesey

Puffin Island

Llandudno

Penrhyn Castle Caernarfon

Llanberis

Snowdonia National Park

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

Day 2 – We travel to Loch Katrine, set in the heart of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

This morning we have arranged a cruise along the loch on board Steamship Sir Walter Scott. This world-famous steamship has captivated visitors

for almost a century, bringing together the best of adventure, relaxation and history – all in one experience. After our voyage, we enjoy lunch at the Lochside restaurant overlooking Lake Katrine.

London

Evershot Lyme Regis

Poole Weymouth

Bournemouth

5 days from £439 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 02 Apr 5 £439 £ 70

27

BAGS T S A KF BREA S E Orkney D Isles INCLU

SCOTLAND

Thurso

Castle Mey & Gardens

Dunrobin Castle

SCOTLAND

includes • Return coach travel • Breakfast bag on our coach • 5 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Entrances into Dunrobin Castle and Castle Mey & Gardens • Guided tour of Orkney Isles • Visits to Skara Brae, Standing Stones of Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, the Churchill Barriers, Thurso & Inverness

Discover captivating landscapes, bountiful wildlife and over 5000 years of history on this Highland adventure to Orkney! On this spell-binding break we include a guided tour of the Orkney Isles, where you will have the chance to visit; Skara Brae, Standing Stones of Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, the Churchill Barriers as well as excursions to Dunrobin Castle, Castle May & Gardens, Thurso and Inverness highlights of your stay Day 1 – We head north through the stunning British landscape and rolling countryside to our overnight hotel.

Edinburgh

Glasgow

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

NEW Orkney & The Castle of Mey

The Isle of Anglesey

Puffin Island

Llandudno

Penrhyn Castle Caernarfon

Llanberis

Snowdonia National Park

London

Evershot Lyme Regis

Poole Weymouth

Bournemouth

Day 2 – After a leisurely morning, we take you to Dunrobin Castle – situated on the east coast of the northern Highlands, overlooking the Moray Firth, it is the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses and has seen the architectural influences of Sir Charles Barry, who designed the Houses of Parliament. Later today we continue our journey to our hotel in Thurso, Britain’s most northerly mainland town for a 3-night stay.

Day 3 – Today, enjoy a

voyage of discovery on a coach guided tour of the magical Orkney Islands.

Cameras at the ready, because here, you will have the opportunity to see the World Heritage Sites of Skara Brae, Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar, plus the Scapa Flow, the Churchill Barriers, the Italian Chapel and the island Capital, Kirkwall.

Day 5 – After breakfast we make our way to Inverness Day 4 – This morning, enjoy – the largest and cultural free time exploring the capital of the Scottish delightful town of Thurso, Highlands – here, we enjoy home to a hive of lovely free time before travelling traditional shops, cafés, to our overnight hotel for bars and restaurants. After a a 1 night dinner, bed and little free time, we then visit breakfast stay.

Castle Mey & Gardens, one of the much-adored Day 6 – We return home to homes of the Queen the East Midlands.

Mother, who saved it from ruin in 1952.

HOTEL 3H

Pentland Hotel, Thurso

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With glorious views across the Pentland Firth towards Orkney, the castle is kept as it was when the Queen Mother was in residence.

On our way back to the hotel, we enjoy a brief stop at John O’Groats, this Highland village combines dramatic, unspoilt scenery and fascinating wildlife.

Located in the heart of Thurso, this popular famil-run hotels restaurant uses the freshest local Caithness produce!

6 days from £669 dates

days from s/supp

Wed 27 Jun 6 £669 £80 *Itinerary days are subject to change.

Oban & the Isle of Mull highlights of your stay

“Thanks Skills for an excellent holiday”

Day 2 – Travelling along the glistening shores of the Lochs, we make our way to Fort William, at the foot of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Today we have included a cable car ride up Aonach Mor, this ‘mountain gondola’ is the only one of its kind in Britain and the journey allows for breathtaking views of Glencoe, Ben Nevis and on a clear day, the Isle of Skye.

Day 4 – Today we visit the Isle of Mull, and head to Tobermory, the capital of Mull, to enjoy free time.

Tobermory was built as a fishing port in the late 18th century and is now a picture-postcard of a place with brightly painted buildings along the main street towards the

The Royal Hotel, Oban

Built in 1895, rooms at the Royal Hotel retain a traditional décor, many with tartan furnishings or curtains.

Tobermory

Isle of Mull

Oban Inveraray

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Glasgow

Edinburgh

- Ms Day

Day 3 – After breakfast explore Oban, the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’. Oban is a wonderful place to spend the day. For stunning views head to ‘McCraig’s Tower’, this colosseum lookalike stands proudly and provides views over the town.

HOTEL 3H

Aonach Mor

pier, surrounded by high woodland-fringed hills.

Day 5 – Today we take you to Inveraray, the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, who founded the town in 1745. Home to Inveraray Castle, a unique piece of architecture, Duke’s Bell Tower and Inverary Jail an award-winning 19th century prison where you can interact with costumed prisoners, watch courtroom trails or even go to jail!

Day 6 – Taking home treasured memories, we begin our journey home.

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

Day 1 – Following early pick-ups sit back and relax with your complimentary breakfast bags as we travel to our hotel in Oban.

• Return coach travel • Inclusive insurance • Breakfast bag on our coach • 5 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Cable car ride up to Aonach Mor • Excursion to the Isle of Mull, Tobermory & Inveraray • Free time in Oban

INSUR ANCE SCOTLAND

SCOTLAND

Get ready for an enchanting adventure, as we take you on a picturesque journey through Scotland’s Highlands. Staying in the town of Oban, on this break we have included a cable car ride up Aonach Mor, where you can experience breathtaking views and excursions to the rugged Island of Mull and Inveraray.

includes

INCLU SIVE

6 days from £529 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 07 May 6 £ 529 £ 95 *Itinerary days are subject to change.

29

CHANNEL ISLANDS

Jersey Explorer SIVE INCLU

includes • Inclusive insurance • Return coach travel • Breakfast bags on departure • Return ferry sailings • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Hotel transfers • Island tour of Jersey • Free time in Jersey

ANCE INSUR

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

Jersey © Jersey Tourism

SIVE INCLU

includes • Inclusive insurance • Return coach travel • Breakfast bags on departure • Return ferry sailings • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Hotel transfers • Island tour of Guernsey • Free time on Guernsey • Excursion to Herm

ANCE R U S IN

Saint Peter Port, Guernsey © Delpixart

Escape to a subdued island that offers a mix of English reserve and French savoir-faire, timeless hidden valleys and scenes of continental flair. Its diverse attractions and stunning beauty offer something for everyone and makes Jersey an ideal destination.

Guernsey is a traveller’s paradise, home to Britain’s cleanest beach and the world’s smallest chapel. Here you can discover miles of green pastures and winding lanes sprinkled with traditional farm houses, dramatic cliffs and golden sandy beaches.

Day 1 – This morning breakfast bags will be waiting for you on our coach, so sit back, relax and enjoy the journey to Jersey.

Day 1 – Breakfast bags will be waiting for you on our coach as we travel to Guernsey.

Day 2 – Today, a knowledgeable guide and coach will collect you from the hotel and whisk you away for a tour of this idyllic island! This is a great way to begin your holiday, allowing you to get your bearings and plan the rest of your trip confidently, perhaps revisiting your favourite spots!

Castle. Don’t forget to make a trip into St Helier, an excellent shopping centre with a mix of well-known high street shops, smaller independent shops and award-winning cafes selling their speciality Jersey Cream delicacies!

Day 5 – We bid a fond farewell before continuing our journey homewards.

HOTEL 3H

Located just a short walk from St Helier, the Merton Hotel boasts an Aquadome featuring indoor pools, a sauna, steam room and hot tub.

Day 4 – Escape to the serene island of Herm; this dreamy island has no cars, no crowds and is completely stress free.

Enjoy beautiful, unspoilt beaches, explore the natural coastlines and take in the spectacular views of neighbouring islands.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we have arranged for a local guide and coach to collect you from your hotel and whisk you away for a tour of Glorious Guernsey! This fun and informative tour is a great way to get your Day 5 – We bid a fond farewell and begin bearings of the island and includes leisurely our journey home. stops.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure, and perhaps enjoy a traditional cream tea and delicious fresh seafood delicacies, relax on the superb white beaches, explore hidden coves or wonderful cliff-top paths.

Day 3/4 – Spend the next two days exploring everything this remarkable island has to offer. From the gripping Jersey War Tunnels, to Elizabeth and Mont Orgueil

The Merton Hotel, Jersey

30

Glorious Guernsey & the Isle of Herm

5 days from £549 dates

days from s/supp

Wed 12 Sep 5 £549 £120 *Itinerary days are subject to change

HOTEL 3H

The Peninsula Hotel, Guernsey

Set within 5-acres of gardens, near the sea-front the Peninsula Hotel offers a relaxing & peaceful stay.

5 days from £579 dates

days

from s/supp

Wed 02 May 5 £ 579 £ 80 *Itinerary days are subject to change

• Inclusive insurance • Return coach travel & ferry sailings • Breakfast bags on departure • Hotel transfers • 6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast in Guernsey & Jersey Just off the Normandy coast lie the Channel Islands, comprising of Jersey, • Island tour of Jersey & Guernsey Guernsey, Sark and Herm. Where British and French influences infuse to create • Tour to Herm a unique mix of exquisite coastlines, rich heritage, beautiful harbours and old• Time at leisure in Guernsey & Jersey world charm.

highlights of your stay

“Holiday was the best we’ve had for a long time, enjoyed everything” - Mr & Mrs Wakefield Day 6 – Enjoy a half day excursion to Herm – an island measuring just a mile and a half long. Escape from it all today on this dreamy island.

Perhaps enjoy a leisurely Day 2 – Today we have walk around its scenic coastal arranged for a local guide and paths, the gentle route takes coach to collect you from your Day 4 – After breakfast, we you across the Common (also hotel and whisk you away for sail across to Guernsey and home to many heritage sites a full day’s tour of this idyllic will be taken to our resort: The dating back to the 1800s) to island! A great way to get Peninsula Hotel for another the stunning shell beach. your bearings, this fun and 3 nights dinner, bed and energetic tour will provide breakfast stay.

Day 7 – After a fantastic you with great information adventure, we begin our about the island, and includes Day 5 – This morning, a local journey home. guide and coach will pick leisurely stops at places of you up from your hotel and interest. take you on an island tour of Day 3 – The largest of the Guernsey!

Channel Islands, Jersey, is a haven for historians, shopaholics and beach lovers alike from magnificent castles and museums to fascinating wildlife, enjoy exploring at your own pace today.

HOTEL 3H

The Merton Hotel, Jersey

London

Weymouth

Plymouth

Guernsey Jersey

St Malo

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

Day 1 – This morning breakfast bags will be waiting for you on our coach, so sit back, relax and enjoy the journey as we travel to Jersey.

INSUR ANCE

CHANNEL ISLANDS

Channel Island Explorer: Guernsey, Jersey & Herm

includes

INCLU SIVE

7 days from £839

HOTEL 3H

The Peninsula Hotel, Guernsey

dates

days

from s/supp

Fri 01 Jun 7 £839 £170 Tue 28 Aug 7 £839 £170 *Itinerary days are subject to change.

31

Jersey by Air

includes

CHANNEL ISLANDS

• Door-to-Door pick-ups* • Return flights from East Midlands airport • Meet & Greet on arrival • Full day island tour • 4/5/6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Jersey

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

Jersey © Jersey Tourism Scarborough

L OUT L E S 2017

includes

TOUR

• Door-to-Door pick-ups* • Return flights from East Midlands Airport • Meet & Greet on arrival • 6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Tour of Guernsey • Free time in Guernsey

Guernsey, south coast cliffs © Delpixart

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

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.

On this break, you can relax in the comfort that everything is already taken care of with door-to-door pick-ups, return flights and an island tour!

Day 1 – Following door-to-door pick-ups we take you to East Midlands Airport for your flight to Jersey. On arrival you will be met by a representative who will then take you to your hotel, the Norfolk Lodge, in St Helier.

Day 1 – After door-to-door pick-ups we take you to East Midlands Airport for your flight to Guernsey. On arrival, you will be greeted by a Skills representative and taken to your hotel.

Day 2 - 5/6/7 – During your stay we have arranged a full day guided tour of the island – via coach! With a wealth of knowledge, bags of humour and local secrets, these island tours are a great way to discover the

whole 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 your time is completely up to you.

Jersey is an island that’s played many roles throughout history from a strategic Viking stronghold to a valuable island fought by the English and French as well as being occupied

by German forces during World War II.

HOTEL 3H

Norfolk Lodge, St Helier Situated in the north of St. Helier this hotel is close to the beach & provides guests with a spacious lounge & live entertainment.

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Guernsey by Air

5 days from £539 dates

days from s/supp

Thu 12 Apr 5 £539 £40 Mon 11 Jun 7 £699 £60 Sun 08 Jul 6 £649 £50 Sun 17 Sep 7 £679 £60

Day 2/6 – During your time on the island, we have arranged a half day guided tour - via coach! Afterwards enjoy free time in Guernsey, doing as much or as little as you like for the rest of your stay.

HOTEL 3H

Saints Bay Hotel, Guernsey Saints Bay Hotel is uniquely situated on the south coast cliffs at Icart Point.

Prices are subject to availability and may change at any time. Call now for your price. Skills Holidays act as retail agents for destination specialists. ATOL protected 9503

*Due to your address location there may be an additional charge for door-to-door pick-ups.

Day 7 – 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 to take you back home.

7 days from £699 dates

days from s/supp

Wed 02 May 7 £ 699 £100 Mon 16 Jul 7 £699 £ 100 Mon 06 Aug 7 £699 £ 100 Mon 10 Sep 7 £ 699 £100

*Due to your address location there may be an additional charge for door-to-door pick-ups.

Welcome to the Scilly Isles - beautiful, uncrowded and unspoilt. Lying just off the coast of Cornwall, there are five inhabited islands and countless uninhabited ones to explore, each with its own distinct characteristics. Scilly also boasts an incredible ancient history and archaeology, alongside sweeping sea views and amazing wildlife.

• Return coach travel • Breakfast bag on our coach • Return ferry sailings • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast en-route • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time on the Isle of Scilly

Newquay St Ives

Weymouth

Falmouth

Plymouth

St. Mary’s

highlights of your stay provided the maps for you to follow. The day is then yours to explore or relax in the beautiful surroundings of the hotel before tonight’s dinner.

like on these beautiful areas of paradise nestled just off the Cornish coast.

Day 6 – After a leisurely breakfast and a little free time to pick up any lastDay 3/5 – St Mary’s has so minute souvenirs, we will much beauty to discover be taken back to the ferry Day 2 – After breakfast our and is the largest of the terminal to transport us driver will take us to the Scilly Isles. Hugh Town is the back to Penzance where we port in Penzance to board central hub with its cluster will be met by a Skills driver. the morning ferry over to of shops, banks, churches, This afternoon we travel the Isles of St Mary. Once post office, cafés, galleries, to our overnight hotel for we arrive we will be greeted restaurants and pubs as well one night dinner, bed and by a representative from as the wonderful museum. breakfast. the hotel who will transport If you fancy exploring a your luggage the short little further afield, perhaps Day 7 – After breakfast we distance to the hotel. The catch a ferry to one of the retrace our footsteps home, hotel is a short walk from neighbouring islands to see taking back wonderful the ferry terminal and what’s on offer. You can do memories and new friends. our coach driver will have as much or as little as you

HOTEL 3H

Tregarthen’s Hotel, Isles of Scilly

This laid back 19th century hotel provides stunning sea views and is a short walk from the harbour.

Jersey

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

Day 1 – Once you’ve got comfortable on our coach, tuck into your freshly prepared breakfast bags that will be waiting for you and enjoy the leisurely journey as we travel to our overnight hotel.

CHANNEL ISLANDS

Isles of Scilly

includes

INCLU DES B REAKF AST B AGS

7 days from £979 dates

days

from

s/supp

Fri 21 Sep 7 £979 £110

33

ANCE R U S SIVE IN INCLU

includes

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

CHANNEL ISLANDS

Snowdonia National Park

• Inclusive insurance • Return coach travel • Return ferry crossings • Breakfast bags on the coach • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Isles of Scilly, St Ives & Barbara Hepworth Museum • Free time in Newquay London

Newquay St Ives Weymouth Falmouth

St. Mary’s

Plymouth

Colourful Cornwall & the Scilly Isles Cornwall and the Scilly Isles are an unspoilt area where picturesque natural parks meet golden coastlines. Relax as we explore a place unlike anywhere else in Great Britain with visits to the Scilly Isles, Newquay, St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum, you will experience a real insight into Cornwall’s history and beauty. highlights of your stay

“The outings were first class, and plenty of time to look around” - Mr & Mrs J K Smith Day 1 – Following an early departure, we travel to our hotel in Newquay Day 2 – After breakfast, we enjoy a full day excursion to the Isles of Scilly. Lying just off the Cornwall Coast, the Isles of Scilly remain an unspoilt and outstandingly beautiful place to explore.

For those looking to relax you can discover beachfront cafés, scenic walks and one of the greatest gardens in Europe – Tresco Abbey Garden.

Day 3 – Discover Newquay today on your own. Now one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK, Newquay offers 7 miles of glorious golden beaches and year round attractions to keep even the biggest of kids entertained.

Day 5 – After a fantastic stay, we retrace our footsteps home joined by Day 4 – Today we visit St lovely memories and new Ives, widely regarded as the friends. biggest jewel of Cornwall’s crown. Here we have included admission into the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden. The studio was established

HOTEL 3H

Cliffdene Hotel, Newquay

34

as the Barbara Hepworth Museum in 1975, the year after her death, and visitors can see some of Hepworth’s most monumental sculptures.

5 days from £449 dates

days from

s /supp

Mon 11 Jun 5 £479 £50 Mon 01 Oct 5 £ 449 £ 50

With panoramic views over Tolcarne Beach, Cliffdene Hotel provides an on-site bar & free Wi-Fi. *Itinerary days are subject to change.

Isle of wight

includes

Ventnor, Isle of Wight © acceleratorhams

includes • Return coach travel • Return ferry sailing • 6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Sandown • Excursions to Cowes, Godshill, Needles, Alum Bay, Freshwater & Osborne House

Cowes, Isle of Wight © acceleratorhams

“ Very enjoyable trip, really enjoyed it” - Mrs Reed “ This is the third time we have visited the Isle of Wight on a Skills Holiday and The Ocean Hotel was the best we have stayed Day 1 – Travel to the Isle of Wight.

Day 5 – Enjoy a full day of exploration at!” - Mrs Selby around the Island. Throughout the day we Day 4 – After breakfast we take you to nearby Ventnor, this traditional seaside is one of Britain’s most famous Victorian health resorts. After some free time we visit Ventnor Botanic Garden, where we have included entry for you.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Ryde - the largest town on the Isle of Wight - for free time. Later, we visit Monkey Haven, this primate rescue centre is the home of mischievous monkeys, owls and reptiles and recently won Small Attraction of The Year Day 5 – After breakfast, feeling refreshed in 2017! and relaxed we begin our journey home.

Day 3 – Explore Sandown at leisure today.

HOTEL

The Ocean Hotel, Sandown

5 days from £349 dates

days from s/supp

40 The Ocean Hotel overlooks Sandown Sat 29 Sep 5 £349 £ Bay and provides an excellent range of facilities. *Sea view rooms available at an additional supplement.

Day 2 – Our first stop today is at a local Garden Farm before visiting Cowes; uniquely split into two halves by the River Medina Cowes is steeped in rich maritime history which has literally shaped the town! Then, we travel to Godshill to visit the Old Smithy & Gardens.

Day 3/4 – Enjoy the next two days at leisure; Sandown sits on the Southern coast of the Isle of Wight, sheltered in a beautiful bay its renowned for its stretches of golden sandy beaches and home to a traditional British seafront and pier.

HOTEL

will visit the iconic Needles and Alum Bay. We also visit Freshwater Bay, home to one of the prettiest beaches on the Isle of Wight.

Day 6 – We arrive at Osborne House, one of the most visited houses in Britain, originally designed by Queen Victoria’s beloved Prince Albert. Set in acres of beautiful grounds and ornamental rose gardens. It’s easy to see why this house was one of Queen Victoria’s favourite places.

Day 7 – We bid a fond farewell taking home great memories and new friends.

The Ocean Hotel, Sandown

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

Situated just off England’s south coast, the Isle of Wight is the perfect holiday destination at any time of the year. From truly stunning and golden coastlines, to unique experiences and a wealth of history and heritage, you’ll find everything you need to unwind on these popular breaks over to the idyllic Isle of Wight.

Day 1 – Travel to the Isle of Wight.

BRITISH ISLE

• Return coach travel • Return ferry sailing • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Sandown • Excursions to Ryde & Ventnor • Entry to Monkey Haven & Ventnor Botanic Garden

Y ERAR IN T I ED REVIS

Longer Duration: Isle of wight

7 days from £519 dates

days from s/supp

40 The Ocean Hotel overlooks Sandown Sat 07 Jul 7 £519 £ Bay & provides an excellent range of facilities. *Sea view rooms available at an additional supplement.

35

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

CRUISE & MARITIME VOYAGES

includes

36

• Return coach travel • 12 nights full board • Excursions to Invergorden, Kirkwall, Stornoway, Tobermory, Dublin, Cobh, St Mary’s, St Peter’s Port & Honfleur

British Isles Discovery Cruise

Beautiful landscapes, rich heritage and ancient traditions are the treasures waiting to be discovered on this circumnavigation of the British Isles. It’s a wonderful opportunity to step ashore on our more remote islands, visit far-flung towns and villages and uncover tales of fascinating folklore. The Emerald Isle and charming Honfleur add something special to what promises to be a memorable cruise. highlights of your stay Day 1 – We board the Marco in Scotland. The picturePolo in Hull. postcard village has a large natural harbour where Day 2 – At Sea: Whilst at sea colourful boats bob on the make the most of Marco waves watched over by Polo’s leisure facilities. brightly, painted buildings backed by woodland-fringed Day 3 – Invergordon, Scotland (UK): Invergordon is hills. a key port with an important Day 7 – Dublin (Republic naval history stretching back of Ireland): The capital of through two World Wars. the Emerald Isle is a city of Day 4 – Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (UK): The Royal Burgh of Kirkwall sits in the centre of Mainland, dividing the island into East and West.

Day 5 – Stornoway, Outer Hebrides (UK): Stornoway is a charming town situated around a bustling harbour.

Day 6 – Tobermory, Isle of Mull (UK): Tobermory is one of the prettiest ports

unforgettable character.

Day 8 – Cobh (Republic of Ireland): Cobh has one of the best natural harbours in the world.

Day 9 – St. Mary’s, Isles of Scilly (UK): The magical Isles of Scilly lie just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall. St Mary’s, the largest of the five inhabited islands, is a delight with white sand beaches, tranquil waters and stunning

CRUISE SHIP

Marco Polo

The Marco Polo cruise ship offers a wide range of facilities including the impressive Waldorf Restaurant and the elegant Captain’s Club, the perfect place to enjoy pre-dinner cocktails!

Prices are subject to availability and may change at any time. Call now for your price. Skills Holidays act as retail agents for destination specialists. ATOL protected 9503

seascapes.

Day 10 – St. Peter Port, Guernsey (Channel Islands): The attractive town is a delight with cobbled streets, steep stairways and alleyways winding their way down between the houses to a picturesque waterfront of grey and white stone buildings.

Day 11 – Honfleur (France): Honfleur offers tidy, picturesque streets, historic buildings house art galleries, artists’ studios, boutiques, restaurants, cafes and fine souvenir shops.

Day 12 – At Sea Day 13 – We arrive back in Hull.

13 days from £1279 dates

days

from

s /supp

Sat 17 Jun 13 £1279 CALL

Scottish Highlights & Emerald Isle

Scottish Islands & Faroes

includes

includes

Day 5 – Tobermory, Isle of Mull (UK): The Day 1 – We board the Marco Polo in Hull. capital of the Isle of Mull. Tobermory is one of Day 2 – At Sea. the prettiest ports in Scotland.

Day 2 – At Sea. Day 3 – Lerwick, Shetland Islands (UK): Day 6 – Dublin (Republic of Ireland): The Day 3 – Belfast Northern Ireland (UK): capital of the Emerald Isle is, with its friendly The core of the town is a maze of narrow, Samson and Goliath are much-loved flagstone streets set behind 18th century landmarks soaring above Belfast’s skyline. The locals, fascinating history, legendary literary sandstone buildings overlooking the harbour. two great, yellow-painted, gantry cranes are a tradition and charming mix of medieval, Day 4 – Klaksvík (Faroe Islands): The secondreminder of the shipbuilding industry that put Georgian and modern architecture, a city of unforgettable character. largest town in the Faroe Islands is the fishing Northern Ireland’s capital firmly on the map. capital of the archipelago.

Day 7 – Cobh (Republic of Ireland): Lying at Day 4 – Stornoway Outer Hebrides (UK): Stornoway is the main town on the island of the mouth of the River Lee, Cobh has one of Day 5 – Tórshavn (Faroe Islands): Tórshavn is Lewis. The charming town is situated around the best natural harbours in the world. today one of the smallest and most pleasant a bustling harbour and has a range of local Day 8 – We arrive back in Brisol Avonmouth. capital cities in the world. specialist shops.

Day 1 – We board the Marco Polo in Bristol Avonmouth.

CRUISE SHIP

Marco Polo

The Marco Polo cruise ship offers a wide range of facilities including the impressive Waldorf Restaurant and the elegant Captain’s Club, the perfect place to enjoy pre-dinner cocktails!

8 Days from £799 dates

days

from

s /supp

Sat 07 Apr 8 £799 CALL

Day 6 – Kirkwall, Orkney Islands (UK): The capital of the amazing Orkney archipelago, the Royal Burgh of Kirkwall sits almost exactly in the centre of Mainland, dividing the island into East and West.

Day 7 – Invergordon, Scotland (UK): Invergordon is a key port with an important naval history.

Day 8 – At Sea. Day 9 – We arrive back in Hull, where our coach will be waiting to take you back home.

CRUISE SHIP

Marco Polo

The Marco Polo cruise ship offers a wide range of facilities including the impressive Waldorf Restaurant and the elegant Captain’s Club, the perfect place to enjoy pre-dinner cocktails!

9 days from £849 dates

days

from

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

Sweeping landscapes and areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty form the background Visiting Scotland’s wonderful Shetland and Orkney Islands, you’ll be treated to for this break to Northumbria, as we include excursions to Alnwick Castle & Gardens, amazing scenery, a wealth of wildlife and the opportunity to visit ancient historic Hexham Abbey, the Beamish Museum and a scenic tour of the Northumbria Coast! sites. This is a truly delightful summer cruise.

CRUISE & MARITIME VOYAGES

• Return coach travel • 8 nights full-board • Visits to Lerwick, Klaksvik, Torshavn, Kirkwall & Invergorden

• Return coach travel • 7 nights full-board • Visits to Belfast, Stornoway, Tobermory, Dublin & Cobh

s /supp

Thu 19 Jul 9 £849 CALL

Prices are based on 2 adults sharing an inside cabin. Single supplements apply. Prices are subject to availability and may change at any time. Call now for your price. Skills Holidays act as retail agents for destination specialists. ATOL protected 9503

37

4* Liverpool

includes

CITY BREAKS

• Return coach travel • 2 nights bed & breakfast • Tea & coffee on arrival • Free time in Liverpool

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

Pier Head, Liverpool © SimonD02

- Mrs S Boon

Day 1 – On arrival, we enjoy complimentary listed buildings in the country and is bursting tea or coffee and once you’ve checked-in with international art and award-winning you are free to explore your surroundings. museums whilst the Cavern Quarter is home to one of the most famous clubs in Day 2 – Enjoy your day at leisure as we give the world – the Cavern Club and birthplace you the opportunity to explore Liverpool of The Beatles. Today, it still thrives as a in your own time. With a range of worldcontemporary music venue showcasing live class tourist attractions and more museums and local bands. and galleries than anywhere outside of London, there is something for everyone Day 3 – After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy to experience. The Albert Dock, situated in some free time before we return home. a spectacular World Heritage waterfront features the largest collection of Grade I

HOTEL 4H

Aloft, Liverpool

38

Aloft Liverpool features modern & stylish décor, a bar & restaurant & evening entertainment.

includes • Return coach travel • Breakfast bags on departure (Feb only) • 1 night bed & breakfast • Free time in London • Optional afternoon tea* at the Waldorf hotel

AS EXTR L A N OPTIO

Union Jack flag and Big Ben © Melis82

An exciting city steeped in history, culture and attractions – this Liverpool city break has it all!

“We would do the trip again!”

The Waldorf: 5* Luxury in London

3 days from £149 dates

days from s/supp

Sun 15 Jul 3 £149 £50 Sun 30 Sep 3 £149 £50

Whether you’re visiting London for the first time, or for a special occasion, you’ll want to experience this quintessentially delightful weekend of luxury. Staying at the worldrenowned 5 star Waldorf Hotel, enjoy free time to discover London and perhaps treat yourself to our optional afternoon tea*.

“Great value for money. Enjoyed every moment.”

Day 1 – After pick-ups you’ll be dropped off in a central location in London where you can enjoy the dazzling sights and sounds of undoubtedly one of the world’s best cities.

With an incredible range of museums, galleries, historic buildings, shops and awardwinning restaurants, any visit to London can be different to the last! Today you will also have the opportunity to enjoy an optional afternoon tea*, served at our exquisite hotel. (*£35 per person - please enquire at time of booking).

- Mr & Ms Wilsher

Day 2 – After breakfast, the morning is yours to enjoy and explore London. With Covent Garden just around the corner, why not take a stroll around its extensive markets before we depart for our journey home.

HOTEL 5H

Waldorf Hilton Hotel, London Situated on the tree-lined throughfare of Aldwych, this hotel is one of the most iconic hotels in London.

2 days from £129 dates

days from s/supp

Sun 25 Feb* 2 £129 £65 Sun 29 Apr 2 £129 £65 Sun 28 Oct 2 £129 £65

NEW The Sights of London: The Shard & River Cruise

includes

NAL O I T P O

includes • Return coach travel • 2 nights bed & breakfast • Free time in London • Optional excursion*

AS EXTR

Houses of Parliament, London © Tomas Sereda

River Thames, London © Sborisov

Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or coming back for a special occasion, you’ll always discover a city full of unforgettable landmarks and exciting things to do!

Day 1 – Following pick-ups, we travel straight to London, where we’ll drop you off in a central location. The rest of the day is then yours to enjoy the sights and sounds of undoubtedly one of the world’s best cities!

Day 1 - 3 – Over the weekend you can explore as much or as little as you like!

London is bursting with attractions, iconic buildings like Buckingham Palace and unique events.

Day 2 – This morning, we visit the Shard where we have included entry to the viewing platform. As London’s highest sky scraper, it offers unparalled 360 degree views across the city. After a little free time to take in the breath-taking views, we take you over to Westminster Pier for an enjoyable cruise along the River Thames.

HOTEL 3H

The convienent Ibis Styles offers comfortable accomodation with tea and coffee making facilities.

2 days from £129 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 13 Jan 2 £ 129 £ 25

“Fantastic weekend!” - Mrs Dodd Optional Extras: London Eye & River Cruise*: Dominating the Southbank of the river, the London Eye is one of London’s most popular landmarks.

With Skills you can now combine the unmissable experience with a guided sightseeing tour along the River Thames (additional fees apply).

The View from the Shard*: Experience London’s highest viewing platform at the top of The Shard – Western Europe’s tallest building. It’s the only place to take in over 1,000 years of the capital’s history all at once (additional fees apply).

HOTEL 4H

Copthorne Tara, Kensington The Copthorne Tara Hotel is within easy reach of Kensington High Street, Knightsbridge and Notting Hill.

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

London is a world-renowned city that needs little introduction, on this short break we experience two top London attractions with entry to the iconic Shard and a cruise along the River Thames.

Ibis Styles, London Excel

CITY BREAKS

• Reurn coach travel • 1 night bed & breakfast • Visit to The Shard • Cruise on the River Thames • Free time in London

London Mini Break

3 days from £179 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 06 Apr 3 £179 £ 100 Fri 20 Jul 3 £189 £ 100 Fri 19 Oct 3 £189 £ 100

*Please enquire at the time of booking

39

RHS Chelsea Flower Show & Kew Gardens

includes

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

includes • Return coach travel • Welcome drink on our coach • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in London • Admission into the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

FLOWER SHOWS

• Return coach travel • Breakfast bags on departure • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Oxford • Admission into the RHS Chelsea Flower Show • Entrance into Kew Gardens

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

Kew Gardens, glasshouse

This year, why don’t you visit one of the world’s most prestigious flower shows? Recognised all over the world, the elegant RHS Chelsea Flower Show was originally held in 1862 in Kensington, but later found its home in the grounds of Chelsea Hospital. Whether you decide to join us for 2 or 3 days on this break, you’re guaranteed to find fabulous flourishing displays and a huge array of show gardens that promise to hypnotise and enchant you!

“Very well organised, excellent value for money.

Wonderful day out at Chelsea Flower Show!” - Mrs Jackson Day 1 – We travel south to Oxford, one of the Day 3 – Today we visit Kew gardens for a world’s most famous university cities. chance to explore the world’s most famous botanic gardens boasting lush landscapes, Day 2 – Today is the highlight of the weekend world-famous glasshouses, historic buildings as we take you to the grounds of Chelsea like the Royal Pagoda and a vast range of rare Hospital. Enjoy time to wander around the and beautiful plants. show admiring the exhibits and displays from across the globe.

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Reading South

40

The Holiday Inn offers comfortable and stylish accomodation with extensive lesiure facilities.

3 days from £249 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 25 May 3 £ 249 £ 40

“The floral displays were out of this world!.”

Day 1 – We travel straight to London for free time. As one of the world’s most visited cities, London has something for everyone; from a history stretching back to Roman times, to a buzzing culture scene, fine food and endless shopping opportunites. Later, we travel to our hotel.

- Mrs Askwith

Day 2 – After breakfast, we make our way to the historic grounds of Chelsea Hospital for the renowned Chelsea Flower Show.

Enjoy free time to wander around the show admiring the exhibits and displays from across the globe before we return home later today.

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, London, Elstree OR St Giles Hotel, Middlesex

Your hotel will be confirmed at the time of booking.

2 days from £169 dates

days from s/supp

Wed 23 May 2 £ 169 £ 30

NEW Florimania at Hampton Court Palace

L OUT L E S 2017

Hampton HamptonCourt CourtPalace Palace

“This was a fantastic trip!”

includes includes

- Mr Stevenson

Day 2 – Visit Blenheim Palace* for BBC’s Countryfile Live event. Throughout the day there will be exciting live arena shows, talks, activities, animal displays, farming in action and shopping.

includes includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Cambridge • Admission to Florimania at Hampton Court Palace

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Oxford • Admission into the Countryfile Live event

HOTEL 4H

HOTEL 3H

Aubrey Park Hotel, Hemel Hempstead

Set in 9 acres of rolling English countryside, this hotel provides a well and truly relaxing stay.

2 days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 10 Mar 2 £109 £ 20

Holiday Inn, Basingstoke

2 days from £119 dates

days from s/supp

Witness the beauty of spring with this enchanting visit to Kew Gardens, home to one of the finest Bluebell woods in the country with a photo opportunity at every turn, but don’t just take our word for it.

“Really enjoyed both days!”

Day 1 – We visit Oxford for some free time before travelling to our hotel. As one of the world’s most famous university cities, Oxford is a beautiful city steeped in history and studded with elegant honey-toned buildings.

- Mrs Rotton

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

includes includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Oxford • Admission into Kew Gardens

HOTEL 4H

Aubrey Park Hotel, Hemel Hempstead

The Holiday Inn offers comfortable and Sat 04 Aug 2 £119 £25 Set in 9 acres of rolling English stylish accomodation, perfect for our countryside, this hotel provides a well short stay. *Please note: price doesn’t include and truly relaxing stay. admission into the Palace.

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

Britain’s most watched factual TV show returns to the grounds of Blenheim Palace! This event combines the tradition of the UK’s best county fairs with one of the BBC’s flagship programmes.

Day 2 – Today we include admission into Hampton Court Palace; enjoy free time Day 1 – Arriving in Oxford, renowned for its history and before we return home. heritage, this city offers so much to see and do all year round.

E OURIT V A F S GER’ MANA

Kew Gardens © Vladimir Zahariev

Blenheim Palace

The perfect treat this Mother’s day – as the annual Florimania returns to Hampton Court Palace! This weekend take some well-deserved time out together to enjoy the stunning floral displays inspired by five centuries of history.

Day 1 – We visit Cambridge for free time. Admire the beautiful architecture, majestic college buildings and explore quaint passages before we take you to our hotel later this afternoon.

TOUR

Bluebells at Kew Gardens FLOWER SHOWS

T AY GIF D S ’ R E MOTH

BBC Countryfile Live at Blenheim Palace

2 days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 14 Apr 2 £109 £20

41

NEW RHS Cardiff Flower Show

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

FLOWER SHOWS

L OUT L E S 2017

RHS Tatton Park Flower Show

TOUR

Kick-start the gardening season at the RHS Cardiff Flower Show. Set in Bute Park at the heart of Cardiff city centre, on this break you can celebrate the best of springtime and enjoy inspiring gardens at the first outdoor show of the fabulous RHS season.

Gorgeous gardens, fabulous florals and fantastic shopping – the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show has it all! This year, experience the world’s largest annual flower show held in the setting of a historic palace on this bloomin’ brilliant break.

Set in the magnificent parklands of Tatton Park in Cheshire, this RHS Flower Show offers a spectacular day out, with a fresh and unique appeal not only to plant lovers but friends and family too.

Day 1 – We travel to Hereford, a lovely city with a lively feel. There are lots of things to do from shopping, to learning about the history and heritage of the city in one of its many museums, or perhaps just sit back in one of the local cafés and watch the world pass you by.

Day 1 – We visit Windsor, crowned by the stunning Windsor Castle, explore the city’s wonderful mix of rich history, culture and heritage.

Day 1 – Arrive in Chester, a medieval walled city bursting with character and diverse architecture. Timber fronted shops line the streets adding to the charm. The many attractions make this a place for everyone to enjoy.

Day 2 – Today, we take you to Bute Park, where we have included entrance to the RHS Cardiff Flower Show. The show offers the opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the best of horticulture in Bute park, ‘The Green Heart of the City’.

includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Hereford • Admission into the RHS Cardiff Flower Show

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Newport

42

RHS Hampton Court Flower Show

The contemporary Holiday Inn offers comfortable rooms in a welcoming environment.

2 days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 13 Apr 2 £109 £ 20

Day 2 – We visit Hampton Court for a full day to enjoy the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show – with 2018 set to be brighter and more spectacular than ever!

“Enjoyed it alot, would do it again and would use Skills again!” - Mrs P Smith includes

Day 2 – Travel to Tatton Park

for their annual RHS Fower Show. Based in one of the most complete historic estates in England, this innovative show features stunning display gardens, demonstrations, exhibitors and over one hundred different species of flowers.

includes includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursion to Windsor • Admission into Hampton Court Flower Show

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursion to Chester .dedFlower ulcni era sShow noticartta oN* • Admission into the RHS Tatton Park

HOTEL 4H

HOTEL 3H

Crowne Plaza, Gatwick Airport

This upscale 4-star hotel features light wooden furniture, a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi.

2 days from £119 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 07 Jul 2 £119 £25

Holiday Inn. Warrington

The modern and stylish Holiday Inn Warrington is conveniently located for our stay.

2 days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 21 Jul 2 £109 £20

Harrogate Flower Show

NEW RHS Malvern Autumn Show

Southport Flower Show

FLOWER SHOWS

Southport Flower Show is now the UK’s largest independent flower show attracting over 80,000 visitors each year. Showcasing a mix of the finest flower and vegetable displays alongside specialist food demonstrations and celebrity guests.

This is the perfect end to the gardening year! Bringing together everything you love about Nature, this greatvalue break is for food, gardening and nature lovers alike, with a range of cookery demonstrations, gardening talks, vegetable displays, vintage tractors, crafts and more!

Day 1 – We visit Leeds. As Yorkshire’s biggest city, Leeds is a metropolitan destination filled with award-winning dining, trendy bars, designer stores and some amazing museums.

Day 1 – Our weekend will begin with free time in Liverpool one of the most popular city destinations in the UK! We recommend exploring the Albert Dock, home to award-winning attractions such as Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story.

Day 1 – We travel to Worcester for free time, best known for its magnificent Cathedral, Worcester offers a fascinating history of industry, and a wealth of interesting architecture.

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel to Harrogate where

we have included admission into the Harrogate Flower Show! Flourishing with seeds of inspiration and rated Britain’s best gardening event by Which? In 2018 you’re guaranteed to leave feeling inspired.

includes includes

Day 2 – After breakfast we take you to Victoria Park, home to the Southport Flower Show. The day includes stunning show gardens, the finest flower and vegetable displays, specialist foods, books and celebrity guests!

includes includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Leeds • Admission to the Harrogate Flower Show

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Liverpool • Admission to the Southport Flower Show

HOTEL 3H

HOTEL 3H

Jurys Inn, Bradford

The Jurys Inn offers stylish, modern rooms just 200 yards from the shops and bars of Bradford city centre.

2 Days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 28 Apr 2 £109 £ 15 Sat 15 Sep 2 £ 109 £ 15

Holiday Inn, Warrington The modern and stylish Holiday Inn Warrington is conveniently located for our stay.

2 days from £105 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 18 Aug 2 £105 £20

Day 2 – After breakfast we travel the RHS Malvern

Autumn Festival; located in a stunning setting at the foot of the Malvern Hills, the show features a charming selection of harvest produce, autumn flowers, livestock and family-friendly entertainment!

includes includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Worcester • Admission to the Malvern Autumn Show

HOTEL 4H

Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove The Holiday Inn offers stylish & comfortable bedrooms and an onsite Revive health club for guests to enjoy.

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

The perfect gift for garden lovers – Harrogate Flower Show is regarded as the country’s most prestigious independent show! Held twice a year it features beautiful show gardens and competitions fun for the whole family!

2 days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 22 Sep 2 £109 £20

43

Goodwood Festival of Speed

Goodwood Revival

SPORTING EVENTS

NEW Cholmondeley Castle: Pageant of Power & Speed

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

Pagent of Power

Goodwood Revival

Join us for the motorsport event of the year – The Pageant of Power & Speed! Showcasing the very best of historic and contemporary automotive power.

The Festival of Speed is the largest motoring party in the world! We also include excursions to Windsor and Greenwich, making it our biggest motoring event yet!

Back by popular demand! Join us for the world’s most celebrated historic motor racing event – the Goodwood Revival - this classic festival is motor racing as it used to be.

Day 1 – We begin our Castle, where over 120 weekend in Chester, this city cars and bikes compete, is as beautiful as it is unique. spanning seven decades of motorsports. The event also Day 2 – After breakfast, incorporates historic sports we travel to Cholmondeley and racing motorbikes, Castle, where the incredible classic speed boats & power Pageant of Power & Speed boats, super cars & concept event is being held. Central cars and helicopters. After to today’s action is the 1.2 free time, we will return mile track within the Park home. ground of Cholmondeley

Day 1 – We begin our in the world! weekend in Windsor, for free Day 3 – Today, we visit time.

Greenwich, home to a World Day 2 – After breakfast we Heritage Site and London’s hit the tracks for this thrilling prettiest royal park. Fly 90m motor racing event The high on the Emirates Air Line, Festival of Speed! Experience Britain’s only urban cable car a heart-racing mix of cars before relaxing in a riverside and motorbikes, stars and pub and enjoying the views. motorsport royalty, creating After a spot of free time, we the largest car culture event continue our journey home.

Day 1 – Today, we visit Windsor crowned by the stunning Windsor Castle.

includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursion to Chester • Admission to Cholmondeley Castle for the event

HOTEL 4H

Ramada Plaza, Wrexham

44

Goodwood Festival of Speed

Wrexham’s premier 4-star hotel offers luxurious accommodation with superb amenities and services.

2 days from £129 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 09 Jun 2 £129 £20 Dates are subject to change.

includes

• Return coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursion to Windsor & Greenwich • Admission to the Goodwood Festival of Speed

HOTEL 4H

Crowne Plaza, Gatwick Airport

This upscale 4-star hotel features light wooden furniture, a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi.

3 days from £249 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 22 Jun 3 £ 249 £ 40 Dates are subject to change.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we travel to the Goodwood Revival. Join thousands of festival-goers and famous racing drivers at Goodwood and soak up the unique atmosphere at the spiritual

home of British motor racing.

Day 3 – We finish our weekend with free time in Greenwich. Discover breathtaking views, royal heritage and amazing attractions, all in a beautiful riverside setting. Later today we will begin our leisurely journey back home.

includes includes

• Return coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursion to Windsor & Greenwich .dedulcni era snoticartta oN* • Admission to the Goodwood Revival

HOTEL 4H

Crowne Plaza, Gatwick Airport This stylish 4-star hotel features a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi.

3 days from £249 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 07 Sep 3 £249 £40 Dates are subject to change.

Ladies day at Royal Ascot

includes

Day 1 – We make our way to London. Unlike anywhere else in the world, with so much to see and do whether you’re returning or it’s your first visit, every trip here can be different and unique! After some free time we will travel to our hotel.

Day 2 – Looking fabulous in your best dress (or suit) we make our way to Ascot to revel in today’s unique atmosphere. After placing your bets, collecting your winnings and finishing your champagne, we depart for home.

• Extra pick-ups* • Return coach travel • Breakfast bag on departure • Complimentary drink • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Windsor & London • Admission to Ladies Day at Royal Ascot

Ladies Day at Royal Ascot is the world’s most glamorous race and this year you could be a part of this prestigious event. Ladies and gentlemen don’t get left behind on this sell-out tour as we have included a complimentary breakfast bag en-route, a welcome drink on our coach and excursions to Windsor, London and a full day at Royal Ascot.

“Wonderful trip! Thoroughly enjoyed!”

Day 1 – At departure you’ll find a complimentary breakfast bag and drink awaiting! We invite you to sit back and relax on your way to Windsor. After some free time, we continue to the hotel.

- Mrs Chesters

Day 3 – After breakfast, we travel to London for free time, here you can marvel at the many sights and sounds, before we continue our journey home.

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

HOTEL 4H

Holiday Inn, London, Elstree OR Holiday Inn Express, Gatwick

Your hotel will be confirmed at the time of booking.

2 days from £145 dates

days from s/supp

Wed 20 Jun 2 £ 145 £ 30

*Price includes ticket to the Windsor Enclosure, upgrade to the Queen Anne Enclosure from £54 per person

HOTEL 3H

Thatchers Hotel, Leatherhead

This charming Tudor-style property sits within beautiful gardens in the heart of the idyllic countryside.

3 days from £219 dates

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

Style, sophistication and grace provide a glamorous backdrop to one of the world’s most famous horse racing venues. Whether you choose the more formal atmosphere of the Queen Anne enclosure or the less formal Windsor enclosure, a great day is to be had by ladies and gentlemen alike.

includes SPORTING EVENTS

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in London • Admission to Ladies Day at Royal Ascot

Longer Duration: Ladies day at Royal Ascot

days from s/supp

Wed 20 Jun 3 £219 £ 30 *Extra pick-ups: Chesterfield, Sheffield, Alfreton & Bulwell please call for more info.

*Price includes ticket to the Windsor Enclosure, upgrade to the Queen Anne Enclosure from £54 per person

45

NEW Railways & waterways of Gloucestershire

UR

BRITISH RAILWAYS Sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful views of Gloucestershire as we take you on a journey on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway and a trip along the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.

Day 1 – We head to Toddington where we have arranged a journey on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway.

This heritage railway offers spectacular scenery of the Cotswolds and outstanding views across the Malvern Hills.

includes

HOTEL 4H

Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove

The Holiday Inn offers stylish and comfortable bedrooms and an onsite Revive health club for guests to enjoy.

On this break we include a journey on the iconic East Lancashire Steam Railway with a cream tea as well as a cruise along the Lancaster canal on the award-winning Widebeam Canal Boat Kingfisher.

Day 1 – Visit Bury, for a spot of free time – perhaps visit the Bury Transport Museum?

Day 2 – After breakfast, we Later, we have arranged take you to Gloucester Docks, a journey on the East here you will be treated to Lancashire Steam Railway a fascinating trip along the with cream tea included.

Gloucester & Sharpness Day 2 – This morning, we Canal on board the Queen board our cruise on the Boadicea II.

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Gloucester Warwickshire Railway • Gloucester boat trip • Free time in Cheltenham & Gloucester Docks

2 days from £112 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 07 Apr 2 £112 £ 20 Sat 08 Sep 2 £112 £ 20

T TO U O L EL 2017 S

© East Lancashire Steam Railway

Enjoy the afternoon in Cheltenham at leisure.

award winning Widebeam Canal Boat - Kingfisher with a hot drink included.

Relax once again as we pass through delightful countryside with views stretching towards the Bowland Fells. On our return, enjoy free time at Barton Grange Garden Centre.

includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the East Lancashire Steam Railway with cream tea on board & cruise with a hot drink • Free time in Bury and Barton Grange Garden Centre

HOTEL 3H

Legacy Preston International Hotel

This modern hotel offers comfortable guest rooms with contemporary décor and free Wi-Fi.

46 Please note: Images shown are for advertising purposes only and train type may differ on your trip.

2 days from £109 dates

Railways & waterways of Yorkshire UR

T TO U O L EL 2017 S

Steam Train, England © Phbcz

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

Railways & waterways of Lancashire

days from s/supp

Sat 24 Feb 2 £109 £ 15 Sat 27 Oct 2 £109 £ 15

Railway Station, Worth Valley

Experience beautiful views from the water and rail as we enjoy some of the UK’s most enjoyable journeys - the Worth Valley Railway and a canal cruise in Skipton with a tasty cream tea served onboard.

Day 1 – We take you to Skipton, here we board our canal cruise and slowly drift through the idyllic Yorkshire Dales. During the journey, a delicious cream tea will be served onboard.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we board the famous

Worth Valley Railway from Keighley to Oxenhope for an unforgettable journey through the Brontë Country!

Witness some of the most breath-taking landscapes in the world. On our return journey, we visit the Salts Mill situated in the UNESCO World Heritage Saltaire.

includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Worth Valley Railway • Canal cruise with a cream tea • Visit to the Salts Mill

HOTEL 4H

Cedar Court Hotel, Bradford

The stylish Best Western Cedar Court Hotel features free Wi-Fi and an indoor heated pool and sauna.

2 days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 05 May 2 £ 109 £ 20 Sat 07 Jul 2 £ 109 £ 20 Sat 25 Aug 2 £ 109 £ 20

Severn Valley Railway & Ludlow

includes • Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Severn Valley Railway • Free time in Ludlow & Kidderminster

UR

• Return coach travel • Club Class coach travel* (Jun only) • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Journey on the Settle to Carlisle Railway • Excursions to Harrogate & York

T TO U O L EL 2017 S

Viaduct ©Ab1126

Steam Train ©Chris Ogden

“Fabulous tour, one of the best we’ve been on and we’ve done nearly all the UK brochure!” - Miss V Kennedy Day 2 – After breakfast, we have arranged a journey on the Severn Valley Railway, from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster. Operating mainly steamhauled trains, there is no better way to see the beauty of the River Severn than on-board one of these beautiful carriages.

HOTEL 4H

The Telford Whitehouse Hotel, Telford The stylish hotel boasts extensive health & leisure facilities for guests to enjoy.

2 days from £99 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 28 Apr 2 £99 £ 20 Sat 06 Oct 2 £99 £20

Please note: Images shown are for advertising purposes only and train type may differ on your trip.

The Settle to Carlisle Railway is one of the UK’s most scenic and impressive railways travelling through viaducts, tunnels and the wild scenery of the North Pennines, Eden Valley and Yorkshire Dales. On this extended break we also visit Harrogate, Skipton and York.

“It was very good and the driver was very helpful!”

Day 1 – We travel to Harrogate for free time before continuing to our hotel later this afternoon. As one of Yorkshire’s most elegant destinations, you could enjoy a spot of lunch at the famous Betty’s Team Room or visit the iconic 19th century Pump Room, home to the town’s fashionable Spa history.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Skipton for a couple of hours at leisure. Later, sit

- Ms Roberts

back, relax and prepare for a spectacular journey on the renowned Settle to Carlisle Railway. This 73-mile journey passes through 14 tunnels and over 20 viaducts, including the Ribblehead Viaduct, perhaps the most famous.

Day 3 – After breakfast, we travel to York, home to York Minster, one of the most beautiful Gothic Cathedrals in the world!

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Darlington Scotch Corner

Offering tastefully decorated and comfortable accommodation, this hotel is the perfect choice for our stay.

3 days from £179 dates

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

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

Day 1 – Our first stop today is Ludlow, where we enjoy a couple of hours of free time. This market town has a welldeserved reputation for quality food and drink. It won’t take you long to find a selection of small, family-owned businesses selling delicious, quality products with a quaint and personal touch. Later today, we will arrive at our hotel.

includes BRITISH RAILWAYS

UR

T TO U O L EL 2017 S

Settle to Carlisle railway

days from s/supp

Fri 18 May 3 £179 £ 25 Fri 29 Jun* 3 £179 £ 25 Fri 21 Sep 3 £189 £25 *Club Class Coach travel June only

Please note: Images shown are for advertising purposes only and train type may differ on your trip.

47

Imperial War Museum & Bletchley Park: Secrets of War

Bath, Stonehenge & Salisbury

SPECIAL INTERESTS

NEW The Royal Mint & Cardiff Castle

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

Cardiff Castle, Wales © Poechri

On this fascinating new break, we delve deep into British history, with visits to The Royal Mint – the only place in the world where you can watch the UK’s coins being made and Cardiff Castle.

Day 1 – We take you to Cardiff Castle, with entrance into the castle included.

You can enjoy free time discovering one of the most amazing and richly complex Castles in Wales.

Day 3 – We embark on a Day 2 – We visit St Fagans National Museum of History walking tour of Cardiff Bay. – one of Europe’s leading Afterwards we return home. open-air museums. After a

includes

Holiday Inn, Newport The contemporary Holiday Inn offers comfortable rooms in a welcoming environment.

Enjoy a weekend of history and secrets from the code breaking at Bletchley Park, which helped shorten World War II. To an intriguing insight into World War I & World War II at the Imperial War Museum in London.

“Great value”

- Mr Warden

Day 1 – We travel first to the Imperial War Museum in London, where you can discover the true stories of real life experiences of modern war from World War I right up to the conflicts that continue today. Afterwards, we travel to the hotel.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we visit Bletchley Park.

Explore the iconic WWII Codebreaking Huts and Blocks and marvel at the astonishing achievements of the Codebreakers whose work is said to have helped shorten the war by two years.

includes

• Return coach travel & 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Cardiff Bay walking tour & entry into Cardiff Castle • Excursions to St Fagans National Museum & The Royal Mint

HOTEL 3H

48

taste of traditional crafts and activities, this afternoon we take you to The Royal Mint.

Experience this fantastic state-of-the-art attraction and witness UK coins being made.

Imperial War Museum, London © David Henderson

3 days from £189

HOTEL 3H

Your hotel will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Experience some of the richest history in Britain as we include excursions to Oxford, the Roman Baths, Salisbury – home to the spectacular Salisbury Cathedral and the mysterious rock formation of Stonehenge.

Day 1 – We travel to Oxford for free time. Home to Britain’s oldest university, the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ is steeped in history and character.

Day 2 – We visit the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge, the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe!

Afterwards, we travel to Salisbury for free time.

Day 3 – Today, we head to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath, here we have included admission into the Roman Baths - this magnificent temple and bathing complex still flows with thermal water from its original source.

includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Entrance to Bletchley Park • Entrance to Imperial War Museum London

Aubrey Park, Hemel dates days from s/supp Hempstead OR Holiday Fri 25 May 3 £189 £40 Inn, Hemel Hempstead

Stonehenge © Abdoaodalia

2 days from £99 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 27 Jan 2 £99 £20 Sat 24 Mar 2 £109 £ 20 Sat 19 May 2 £109 £20 Sat 28 Jul 2 £109 £20 Sat 20 Oct 2 £109 £ 20

• Return coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Entrance to Roman Baths & Stonehenge • Excursions to Oxford, Stonehenge, Salisbury & Bath

HOTEL 3H

Jurys Inn, Swindon

The stylish Jurys Inn offers spacious and comfortable bedrooms & a warm welcome.

3 days from £195 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 11 May 3 £195 £ 50 Fri 14 Sep 3 £195 £ 50

Skills Party Break

Chinese new Year in London O

Party goers © Louise Smith

Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham © Nickos

“Kung Hei Fat Choi” (or Happy New Year)! 2018 is the Year of the Dog, and you can be a part of this year’s festivities as the biggest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia come to London’s popular Trafalgar Square.

from old to new and prepare Day 1 – We drop you off in the centre of London, close to dance the night away! to the copious sights and Day 2 – Breakfast is served attractions of this amazing surrounded by the calm city. ambience of a live musician Day 2 – After breakfast, our and why not enjoy a bucks driver will take you back into fizz to get you ready for London and drop you off another day in stunning near Trafalgar Square which is Chester.

home to the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia! Today will be filled with a lively parade featuring artists from China, performances by local acts, sizzling, traditional food and craft stalls. Later we will return home.

Please note: We will aim to drop you off as close to Trafalgar Square as we can.

includes

includes

• Return coach travel • 1 night bed & continental breakfast • Free time in London to enjoy the celebrations

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • 3 Course dinner & party night with a disco • Free time in Chester

HOTEL 4H

Hallmark Queen, Chester

2 days from £89 dates

This 4 star hotel is perfectly located in the city centre, within walking distance Sat to city’s shopping area & Cathedral.

days from s/supp

20 Jan 2 £89

£15

HOTEL 3H

Ibis Styles, London Excel

Canning Town tube station is only 2 stops on the DLR which offers direct access to Central London.

2 Days from £79 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 17 Feb 2 £79 £25 *Dates are subject to change.

Treat your loved one this Valentine’s Day, whether it’s a surprise or something you’ve planned together, we’ve created a relaxing itinerary with breakfast bags and welcome drinks. This weekend is simply perfect for two.

Day 1 – We travel to Cheltenham. Today this elegant Regency spa town offers award winning gardens and restaurants, splendid architecture and stylish shops for you to enjoy.

to Roman times and no visit is complete without a trip to the 11th century Gloucester cathedral, resting place of King Edward II, home of the majestic Great East Window.

More recently, the city has become hugely popular as a Day 2 – After a delicious film and television location of breakfast, we visit Gloucester. ‘Sherlock Holmes’, ‘Wolf Hall’ This Cathedral city dates back and ‘Harry Potter!’

includes includes

• Club Class coach travel • Breakfast bag at departure • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast and a welcome drink .dedulcni era snoticartta oN* • Excursions to Cheltenham & Gloucester

HOTEL 4H

Mercure Gloucester Bowden Hall, Gloucester This elegant country hotel boasts modern and stylish rooms, a restaurant and a bar.

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

Skills Holidays and the fabulous Hallmark - Queen Hotel, in Chester, would like to formally invite you back by royal ‘Skills’ appointment to the spectacular Party Break for another sensational evening.

Day 1 – Arriving in Chester, you have free time to explore this magnificent medieval lined city before we check-in to our hotel that is bursting with character and diversity.

Tonight, join the Skills team and friends for a fabulous three course meal followed by all your favourite music

EL TRAV S S A CL CLUB

SPECIAL INTERESTS

VALUE G IN ND UTSTA

Valentine’s Weekend in Cheltenham & Gloucester

2 Days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 10 Feb 2 £109 £25

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SPECIAL EVENTS

The Haunted Ribble Valley & Pendle Witches

includes

GUIDE R U O T INNING W D R AWA

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Guided tour with Simon Entwistle • Guided tour of Townley Hall • Excursion to Pendle Hill

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

Pendle Hill © LukeP77

“Simon was a wonderful, funny and knowledgablke tour guide!” - Mrs B Hallam Day 2 – After breakfast, we re-join Simon and head to Townley Hall which was once home to the Townley family for nearly five centuries. Today our knowledgeable guide Simon, will uncover their dramas, triumphs and tragedies on a guided tour.

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Preston

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The Holiday Inn Preston has a prime central location, making it a great base for our short stay.

Whalley Tour with Simon Entwistle includes GUIDE R U O T INNING W D R AWA

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Barrowford Visitor Centre, the Witch Museum & Townley Hall • Guided night-time tour of Whalley village with Simon Entwistle

© Tour Guide & Historian Simon Entwistle

Revisit the notorious legend of Pendle Hill, a story of murder, witchcraft and terror, deep in the heart of Lancashire’s Ribble Valley. Our guide on this tour is Simon Entwistle who has appeared on TV and Radio in the past and will take you on an entertaining journey through the history of this hauntingly beautiful landscape.

Day 1 – Arriving in Lancashire, we meet our talented guide, Simon Entwistle and begin our journey to Pendle Hill. Here we visit the scenes where the accused witches lived in 1612 while our guide recites stories about Pendle Valley.

Halloween Special: Night

2 days from £109 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 09 Jun 2 £109 £ 15

When it comes to ghostly goings on, Lancashire has lots of frightening fables, and this October we want to take you on a guided tour of some of the spookiest. Joined by our award-winning historian and guide; Simon Entwistle, we visit Pendle Hill and the Witch Museum, Townley Hall and enjoy a night-time tour of Whalley village.

“Simon’s guidance and humour is fantastic - he really made the trip great!” - Mr Fisher Day 1 – We travel to the notorious Pendle Hill where we meet our expert guide: Simon Entwistle and visit the Barrowford Visitor Centre and the Witch Museum. Here you can follow the journey of the 10 people executed on the Lancaster Moors after being found guilty of witchcraft. Afterwards, we head to our hotel for dinner and once nightfall strikes we re-join our guide for a night-time guided walking tour of Whalley home to the Cistercian monks for almost 2

centuries. The town is home to some ghostly goings on and Simon will take us around the most haunted buildings.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we visit Townley Hall, this Grade I listed building was the family home to the Townley’s for nearly five centuries and today Simon will bring their stories to life and uncover the myths and legends hidden inside.

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn, Preston

Right in the heart of Preston city centre, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and free Wi-Fi.

2 days from £129 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 27 Oct 2 £129 £ 20

NEW Jamie Oliver’s Cookery School: Pasta Master Class

includes

includes

* RAVEL T S S CLA CLUB

• Extra pick-ups** • Club Class coach travel* (Jan & Mar only) • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time at the hotel to use the extensive leisure facilities • Pre-bookable treatments available* • Excursion to Manchester

Fancy a break from the stresses and strains in life? Do you have a special occasion coming up? A spa break is a fantastic way to treat yourself or that special someone.

This weekend we give you the ultimate in relaxation, over-indulge, unwind and leave feeling rejuvenated and revitalised!

Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey straight to London, on arrival our driver will drop you off in a central location so you can enjoy some time at leisure. Feast your eyes on an incredible array of sights, fantastic museums, galleries, historic buildings, shops and of course, award-winning restaurants.

Day 1 – After pick-ups, we travel to our hotel for an afternoon of pampering and relaxation. We are able to offer you a selection of pre-bookable treatments for today at an exclusive discounted price.

These are listed below and MUST be booked before you travel.

– create anything from lasagne sheets to fettuccine, with a simple sauce to go with them. Best of all, afterwards you can enjoy the fresh dish you’ve prepared with a refreshing glass of wine!

*Pre-bookable Treatments:

Day 2 – After breakfast we head to Westfield Shepherd’s Bush for our Pasta Master Class at the Jamie Oliver Cookery School. Here, a trained chef will teach you the secret to making the perfect pasta dough and show you how to make a variety of pasta shapes

HOTEL 3H

Ibis London, Earls Court

The Ibis is a just a few minutes’ walk to West Brompton Tube Station on the District Line.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we take you to Manchester. With Intu Trafford Centre, Arndale and Market Street all offering an unrivalled shopping experience you’ll be in High Street heaven today!

Matcha Green Tea Facial – £37 (per person) Swedish Back Massage – £36 (per person) Hot Stone Back Massage – £35 (per person) Spa Pedicure – £34 (per person) Manicure – £28 (per person)

2 days from £169 dates

days from s/supp

Thu 18 Jan 2 £169 £ 35

HOTEL 3H

Best Western Park Hall, Preston Set in the countryside, this hotel boasts one of the finest spas in the area.

2 days from £99 dates

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

Whether you’re a beginner or a Mary Berry in the kitchen, this short break is an unmissable treat for all food lovers! Treat your taste buds with a ‘Pasta Master’ class taught by a trained chef at the Jamie Oliver Cookery School and afterwards relax with a glass of wine and some delicious, fresh pasta!

SPECIAL EVENTS

• Return coach travel • Breakfast bag on departure • 1 night bed & breakfast • ‘Pasta Master’ class at Jamie Oliver’s Cookery School with lunch & a glass of wine.

Spa break

days from s/supp

Sat 13 Jan* 2 £99 £30 Sat 10 Mar* 2 £99 £30 Sat 29 Sep 2 £109 £30 **Extra pick-ups: Chesterfield, Sheffield, Alfreton & Bulwell

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

SPECIAL EVENTS

E OURIT V A F S GER’ MANA

includes • Return coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to Durham, Barnard Castle & Harrogate • Entry to the Kyren performance

NEW Kynren: An Epic Tale of England THE UK’S MOST SPECTACULAR OPEN-AIR LIVE SHOW: Kynren – an epic tale of England. This year experience Bishop Auckland’s live action, extravaganza with Skills! As the sun sets, the action-packed show begins following 2000 years of English history, myth and legend, set against the magnificent backdrop of Auckland Castle. highlights of your stay Day 1 – Enjoy a leisurely journey to Durham; this captivating city is home to winding cobbled streets crowned with the dramatic Durham Cathedral and Castle – an impressive World Heritage Site.

take this opportunity to freshen up a little before this evening’s spectacular show, which takes place at a purpose-built arena below Auckland Castle.

This incredible, outdoor, live show is directed by Steve Boyd, (the Creative Day 2 – We visit the market Director for the 2012 town of Barnard Castle, London Olympics Opening where you can wander the Ceremony). As dusk falls, delightful cobbled streets, this action-packed historical twisting lanes and enjoy a extravaganza finally begins! little free time. Later, our Taking place over a sevendriver will take you back and-a-half-acre stage, to the hotel, where we the show incorporates a have arranged an early full-sized lake, pyrotechnics, evening meal, perhaps also spectacular lighting, water

HOTEL 3H

Holiday Inn Darlington, Scotch Corner

Offering tastefully decorated & comfortable accommodation, this hotel is the perfect choice for our stay.

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effects and a cast of over 1000 local volunteers who recreate the last 2000 years of British history, starting of course, with the Roman Empire! You can also enjoy appearances from the Venerable Bede, Boudica, William the Conqueror, Cardinal Wolsey, William Shakespeare, Elizabeth I, Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill.

Day 3 – After breakfast, we travel to Harrogate for a little free time before returning home.

3 days from £199 dates

days from

s/supp

Fri 10 Aug 3 £199 £ 25 *Itinerary days are subject to change

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Longer Duration: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

includes • Extra pick-ups • Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • 1 night bed & breakfast • Entry to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance • Visits to Gretna Green, Edinburgh & Dumfries

© Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo Performance

© Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo Performance

“Great value for money. Enjoyed every moment.”

- Mr & Ms Wilsher

no hotel dinner before tonight’s legendary Military Tattoo performance. As dusk falls, don your tartan and take your seats for the spectacular Royal Tattoo performance!

Day 3 – This morning we visit Dumfries, known as the ‘Queen of the South’.

Day 2 – After breakfast, we travel to Dumfries is an ancient town famed for Edinburgh. Whilst enjoying Scotland’s its connections to Robert Burns, who is captivating capital city and rich history, don’t regarded as Scotland’s national poet and forget to try out one of its many restaurants spent his final years here. and cosy eateries though as there will be

HOTEL 3H

Best Western Lovat Hotel, Perth The Golden Jubilee Hotel, Glasgow Your hotel will be confirmed at the time of booking.

3 days from £229 dates

days from s/supp

Wed 08 Aug 3 £229 Fri 10 Aug 3 £229 Wed 15 Aug* 3 £229 Fri 17 Aug 3 £229

£45 £45 £45 £ 45

Iconic and spectacular; The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo just got even better with our new longer duration break with Skills! Experience the greatest show on earth set against the iconic Edinburgh Castle. On this break, we also include excursions to Scone Palace, Gretna Green, Dundee and Edinburgh.

Day 1 – This morning we take you to Gretna Green hailed as the wedding capital of the UK for free time. Whilst you’re here perhaps pop into the Blacksmiths shop? Later we continue to our hotel.

Day 2 – This morning we visit Scone Palace.

As one of Scotland’s most important stately homes Scone Palace has an exciting and colourful history that you won’t want to miss! Throughout its lifetime it has been the seat of parliament and the crowing place of many Kings, including Macbeth and Robert The Bruce. After free time, we travel to Dundee; the UK’s first UNESCO City of Design.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure today, the hotel is conveniently located across the road from a local bus stop for those who would prefer to explore Perth’s centre.

Day 4 – After breakfast, we will take you into Edinburgh where we will spend the rest of the day. Wrap up warm and don’t forget to try out one of its many award winning restaurants, as there will be no dinner provided at the hotel for you today. As dusk falls, we will take to our seats for what promises to be another incredible Royal Military Tattoo performance!

Day 5 – We return home.

HOTEL 3H

Best Western Lovat Hotel, Perth Located near Perth centre, the hotel offers spacious & elegant bedrooms with tea & coffee making facilities.

5 days from £429 dates

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

THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH – The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has been a long-standing favourite amongst our Skills passengers for many years. Set against the iconic Edinburgh Castle, on this break you can experience an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance as over 900 cast members join for a unique, atmospheric show unlike any other!

Day 1 – Following early pick-ups, we enjoy a leisurely journey to Gretna Green; hailed as the ‘Gateway to Scotland’ Gretna Green is home to the famous Blacksmiths Shop a unique shopping experience. After some free time, we continue to our hotel.

• Return coach travel • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • 1 night bed & breakfast • Excursions to Gretna Green, Dundee, Scone Palace & Edinburgh • Entry to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance • Free time in Perth

SPECIAL EVENTS

UR

T TO U O L EL 2017 S

includes

days from s/supp

Mon 20 Aug 5 £429 £50

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NEW Haworth 1940’s Weekend

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

SPECIAL EVENTS

Llandudno’s Victorian Extravanganza

T LEMEN P P U GLE S NO SIN

Each year Llandudno plays host to all things 19th century at the much-loved Victorian Extravaganza! Marvel at the Victorian costumed characters, old time fair rides, steam engines and witness the biggest highlight, the daily street parades which take place at midday!

Step back in time to wartime Britain with Skills, and relive the 1940’s at one of the UK’s most popular themed events; the Haworth 1940’s weekend! Enjoy live re-enactments, music, dances and displays to commemorate this iconic era of British history.

In 2018 Liverpool will host the Tall Ships Regatta! This magnificent event will mark the 10th anniversary since Liverpool was named ‘European Capital of Culture’ and coincides with the International Mersey River Festival; a celebration of Liverpool’s historic waterfront.

Day 1 – Roll up, roll up. We travel to Llangollen for a horse drawn canal journey along the Llangollen Wharf.

Day 2 – Today we travel to Llandudno giving you the opportunity to experience the Victorian Extravaganza and explore all of the

Day 1 – Today we visit Leeds things 1940’s. The weekend for a couple of hours of free often includes a RAF vintage time. flypast, a morale boosting visit from ‘Sir Winston Day 2 – After breakfast, Churchill’ and even the we visit Haworth for the ‘Queen Mother’ – as well 1940’s event; attracting over as authentic swing jive and 25,000 visitors each year this ‘Lindy Hop’ dancing! fabulous event celebrates and commemorates all

Day 1 – We travel to Chester for free time.

forefront of what is sure to be an event like no other!

Day 2 – This year, Liverpool will be the start of the 2018 Biscay Tall Ships Regatta; the event will see an international fleet of tall ships from all over the world take over the city bringing international friendship and culture to the

Day 3 – Visit Manchester; the city’s shopping is one of the best in the UK, with everything from renowned brands and exclusive labels to vintage boutiques and outdoor markets to enjoy before we return home!

includes

includes

splendour that Llandudno has to offer.

Day 3 – After breakfast, we travel to the medieval walled town of Chester, its bewitching beauty and timbered buildings make it one of Britain’s most popular destinations.

includes

• Return coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Llangollen horse drawn canal cruise • Excursions to Llandudno & Chester

HOTEL 3H

St. Kilda Hotel, Llandudno

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NEW Tall Ships Regatta: Liverpool

Because St Kilda is a family-run hotel, you can expect a uniquely warm welcome and a great stay.

• Return coach travel • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Leeds • Free time in Haworth to enjoy the 1940’s event

3 days from £189 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 04 May 3 £189 £55

HOTEL 4H

The Bradford Hotel, Bradford Located in the city centre, this hotel offers modern bedrooms.

2 days from £95 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 19 May 2 £95 £20

• Return coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free time in Liverpool for the Regatta event • Excursions to Chester & Manchester

HOTEL 4H

Chalon Court, Merseyside

Chalon Court Hotel’s location makes it easy to explore Liverpool & Manchester.

3 days from £149 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 25 May 3 £149 £45

Skills European Contents

DELIGHTFUL BELGIUM - PAGE 58

your accommodation made simple

THEMED BREAKS NEW Little Boats & Trains of the Rhine Valley NEW André Rieu in Antwerp Venice Carnival Featuring Verona NEW Winter Wonderland on the Glacier Express NEW Easter Special: Italian & French Rivieras Disneyland Paris

PAGE 56 57 57 63 66 68

CITY BREAKS Discovering Poland NEW Delightful Belgium NEW Dutch Bulbfields Beautiful Bruges NEW Amsterdam & the Highlights of Holland Amsterdam Canal Festival St Patrick’s Day in Belfast Belfast, Titanic Experience & the Giants Causeway

PAGE 58 58 59 59 62 62 64 64

MINI CRUISES Keukenhof Gardens Amsterdam Bruges

PAGE 60 61 61

SINGLE HOLIDAYS Singles: 4* Irish Taster NEW Singles: Italian Dolomites

PAGE 65 65

Treasures of Tuscany NEW Spring in Lake Garda Lake Garda, Venice & Verona NEW Spring Special: Costa Brava & Barcelona NEW Costa Brava, Barcelona & Girona NEW THE LEGER COLLECTION

WINTER WONDERLAND ON THE GLACIER EXPRESS- PAGE 63

66 67 67 69 69 70-79

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

Lift

Gym

Café

Swimming Pool

Bar

Spa/Wellbeing

Restaurant

Central Location

Games Room

Golf Course

WiFi Available

Games

Entertainment

Seafront Hotel

ITALIAN & FRENCH RIVIERA - PAGE 66

Club Class Travel

NEW FO

R 20 18

This year discover Europe in the comfort and style of one of our executive Club Class coaches. These specially-designed coaches offer reclining seats with leather headrests, footrests and more legroom than our standard coaches. As well as a spacious rear lounge for your enjoyment.

So, sit back, relax and prepare to witness some of the most breath-taking scenery that Europe has to offer in the comfort of luxury coach travel from Skills Holidays.

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

AVEL R T S CLAS B U L C Cologne

BELGIUM

Bonn Linz am Rhein

Remagen

River Rhine

includes • Club Class coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Guided walk of Remagen’s Old town • Journey on the Drachenfelsbahn Railway & Boat ride • Free time in Linz am Rhein, Cologne & Bonn* (*July only) • Optional excursion to the Ahr Valley

NEW Little Trains & Boats of the Rhine Valley Journey through a storybook landscape of enchanting forests and old-world towns bound together by the mighty Rhine. This new break is a wonderful way to enjoy this famous river valley as we enjoy a journey on the Drachenfels bahn Rack Railway, a boat cruise to Königswinter and free time in Cologne and Bonn. highlights of your stay Day 1 – After early pick-ups we cross the Channel and travel to our hotel.

Day 2 – Today we have arranged a journey on the Drachenfelsbahn Railway – this historic rack railway is one of only four still in operation in Germany and runs from Königswinter to the stunning Drachenfels mountain. After our incredible train journey, we then enjoy a boat ride on Königswinter to Linz am Rhein – situated on the banks of the River Rhein, this enchanting medieval town offers a lively old town with architectural treasures just waiting to be explored.

streets of Remagen; most famous for the Bridge of Remagen – the bridge across the Rhine was destroyed in World War II, it has never been re-built but instead remains as a memorial, towering over the city. Later, a traditional Easter lunch will be served at the hotel.

Day 3 (July only) – Enjoy a day at leisure. Or, join us for an optional excursion to the incredible Ahr Valley* with our host and tour guide, Leonard Pinger. The day will include a return journey on the Ahr Valley Train, entrance and a tour and tasting at Mayschoss Wine Cellar and a delightful horse drawn carriage ride through the Day 3 (March only) – Spend Mönchsberg vineyard (*£45 today in the comfort of the per person – please enquire hotel. After breakfast perhaps at time of booking). wander out into the historic

HOTEL 3H

Hotel Pinger, Remagen

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Day 4 (March only) – Visit the impressive city of Cologne; regularly voted as the country’s most popular tourist attraction, the town is dominated by its famous cathedral, whose twin spires eclipse the skyline. Right next to the cathedral is the historic centre with its old, colourful houses from here you can explore the modern art gallery, the chocolate museum or if you’d rather enjoy a spot of shopping head to Hohe Straße, Schildergasse, Mittelstraße and Ehrenstraße.

Day 4 (July only) – Today we visit Cologne and Bonn for free time. We will end our day with a wine tasting back in the comfort of the hotel.

Day 5 – We return home.

5 days from £339 dates

days from

s/supp

Thu 29 Mar 5 £339 £ 65

After a day of exploring guests can relax & enjoy locally produced wines Mon 23 Jul 5 £359 £65 on the terrace. *Itinerary days 1, 2 and 5 will remain the same for both dates.

NEW André Rieu in Antwerp

includes

Venice Carnival Featuring Verona

includes

André Rieu

People dressed up for the Venice Carnival © Extravagantni

The annual Venice Carnival is a one of a kind celebration held in one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Believed to have started in the 12th century, the magnificent carnival is world famous for its traditional local allure and is not to be missed!

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel in Valkenburg. Day 3 – Spend today exploring Valkenburg.

A visit to the castle ruins is a must, with a Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Maastricht, history dating back to the 11th century, or as one of the oldest cities in Holland, perhaps wander from the Great Hall to the Maastricht boasts two wonderful town defensive towers capturing stunning views squares; Vrijthof, home Sint-Servaas Church, of the city below. Later, we will enjoy an Sint-Jan’s Cathedral and Markt. early dinner back at the hotel and time to get ready for this evening’s main event; the André Rieu concert in Antwerp!

Day 2 – We travel to our hotel in Abano Terme.

Day 4 – After a wonderful stay and a fabulous André Rieu performance we retrace our steps back home.

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 3 – Enjoy a day at leisure and perhaps take advantage of the hotel’s spa facilities (fees may apply). Alternatively join us for an optional excursion to the beautiful shores of Lake Garda* (*£10pp payable to the driver).

Day 4 – Today a water taxi will take you over to Venice to enjoy the exhilarating atmosphere of the Venice carnival!

Day 5 – Visit Verona. Once an important Roman town, now Verona’s fascinating historic centre lies within the town walls and is rich in archaeological sites. The grandest of which is the Roman Arena.

Day 6 – Enjoy another day at leisure in Abano Terme. Or join our driver on an optional excursion to Murano and Burano* by boat (*£35pp please enquire at time of booking).

Day 7 – Return to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 – We continue our journey home.

HOTEL 3H

Hotel Walram is a comfortable, modern & cosy hotel, housed in a typically marlstone building.

4 days from £359 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 05 Jan 4 £359 £60

HOTEL 3H

Lo Zodiaco Spa Hotel, Abano Terme

Surrounded by gardens, this hotel is just a short walk from the pedestrian area of Albano Terme.

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

The ‘King of Waltz’ returns to Belgium! Experience the magic of André Rieu in Antwerp, and discover why André Rieu is one of the best-selling live acts in the world! On this break we also enjoy free time in the beautiful cities of Valkenburg and Maastricht.

Best Western Hotel Walram, Valkenburg

CONTINENTAL EUROPE

• Return coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast • 5 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Optional excursion to Lake Garda, Murano & Burano • Boat to Venice • Free time in Venice, Abano Terme & Verona

• Return coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • André Rieu concert ticket • Excursion to Maastricht • Free time in Valkenburg

8 days from £559 dates

days from s/supp

Wed 07 Feb 8 £559 £130 Additional fees may apply

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

CONTINENTAL EUROPE

Discovering Poland RAVEL T S S CLA CLUB

• Club Class coach travel • 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast en-route • 1 night dinner, bed & breakfast in Wrocław • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast in Kraków • Boat trip on River Oder • Guided tour of Wrocław, Kraków, Auschwitz & Zakopane • Entry into Wawel Hill & Cathedral, St. Mary’s Basicilica & Auschwitz • Journey on the Gubalowka Funicular Krakow, City centre © Meinzahn Train

Embark on an exploration through Poland, as we explore the cities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of this spectacular city. On this fascinating break we enjoy a journey on the Gubalowka Funicular train, and visits to Wrocław, Kraków, Auschwitz, Zakopane, Wawel Hill & Cathedral and St. Mary’s Basicilica.

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 5 – Visit Auschwitz – the largest of the German Nazi concentration camps, where Day 2 – We arrive at our 1st hotel in Wrocław, we have arranged a guided tour of the three for a 1 night stay. main camps. We return to the hotel to Day 3 – Guided tour of Wrocław, idyllically freshen up before enjoying dinner in Kraków. located on the River Odra. Afterwards, enjoy Day 6 – Full day in Zakopane, with a tour a boat cruise along the River Odra, known as guide who will tell us everything we need to the ‘Venice of Poland’! Then, we take you to know about Poland’s best-known mountain nd our 2 hotel in Kraków for 4 nights. range! We also include a journey on the Day 4 – This morning a city guide will meet Gubałówka funicular railway providing you at the hotel and take you on a guided spectacular panoramic views of the Tatra tour of Kraków Old Town, filled with soaring Mountains! churches, impressive museums and the Day 7 – Travel to our overnight hotel.

Rynek Główny – Europe’s largest market square. The afternoon is at leisure.

Day 8 – We continue home.

VARIOUS 3H

Hotel Ibis Styles, Wroclaw Hotel Chopin, Krakow

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includes

8 days from £689 dates

days from s/supp

Sun 08 Jul 8 £689 £115

NEW Delightful Belgium

includes

E OURIT V A F GER’S MANA

• Return coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 4 nights bed & breakfast • Free time in Bruges • Excursions to Ypres, the Last Post Ceremony & Ghent • Optional excursion to a brewery

Ghent, Belgium © Orpheus

Explore the delights of Belgium on this exciting city break. With the opportunity to visit Ypres to witness the moving Last Ceremony and free time to explore Bruges and Ghent, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Day 1 – We travel to the Hotel Olympia for a 4 night bed and breakfast stay.

Day 2 – Enjoy free time exploring Bruges!

The Hotel Olympia is around 1 mile from the historic centre (approx. 20 to 30 leisurely minute walk). Affectionately known as ‘The Venice of the North,’ Bruges has peaceful canals to explore, medieval cobbled streets to wander and not forgetting delicious chocolates to sample!

Day 3 – After a leisurely morning, later today we travel to Ypres, to witness the Last Post Ceremony, this moving ceremony has taken place at the Menin Gate, every

evening since 1928 and remembers the men and officers who died defending their country between 1914 and 1918.

Day 4 – After breakfast we travel to Ghent for free time. This port city in north west Belgium is renowned as being ‘Belgium’s best kept secret’ – this is because the city has managed to preserve its ancient medieval charm. During the afternoon, you can choose to join us for an optional excursion to visit a local brewery* (*£12 per person - please enquire at time of booking).

Day 5 – We return home.

HOTEL 3H

Hotel Olympia, Bruges

Located within walking distance to the city centre, the Hotel Olympia is a great choice for our city break.

5 days from £315 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 02 Jul 5 £315 £110

NEW Beautiful Bruges

includes • Club Class coach travel* (Sep only) • Return Channel crossings • 3 nights bed & breakfast • Excursions to Ghent • Free time in Bruges • Optional excursion to Ypres & the Last Post Ceremony**

Bruges canal © Kavalenkava Volha

**Minimum numbers required

includes

RAVEL T S S CLA CLUB

• Club Class coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 3 nights bed & breakfast • Entrance & free time at Keukenhof Gardens • Excursion to Amsterdam

Keukenhof Gardens © Olena_Znak

This Spring, visit Holland in glorious bloom on our Dutch Bulbfields break! Known as the ‘Greatest Flower Show on Earth’, on this great-value break we include excursions to the unmissable Keukenhof Gardens and enjoy free time in Amsterdam.

Day 1 – Sit back and relax as we take you to 1928 and remembers the men and officers our hotel in Bruges. who died between 1914 and 1918 (*£10 per person - please enquire at time of booking).

Day 2 – Today enjoy free time exploring Bruges! The Hotel Olympia is around 1 mile Day 3 – This morning we visit the traffic-free from the historic centre (approx. 20 – 30 city of Ghent for free time. Dating back to minute walk). Affectionately known as ‘The the iron age, Ghent is a picturesque mix of Venice of the North,’ Bruges has peaceful early Flemish architecture and a testament canals to explore, medieval cobbled streets to the city’s medieval might. Impressive to wander and not forgetting delicious Gothic sites sit beside steeple-roofed chocolates to try! This afternoon you can buildings and pretty canals. After some free join us for an optional excursion to Ypres time we return to Bruges for the rest of the where we will visit the Menin Gate for the day.

Last Post Ceremony*, this moving ceremony has taken place here every evening since Day 4 – After breakfast we return home.

Day 1 – Sit back and relax onboard our executive Club Class coach as we travel to our hotel in the Netherlands, enjoying comfort stops along the way.

HOTEL 3H

Located within walking distance to the city centre, the Hotel Olympia is a great choice for our city break.

4 days from £249 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 02 Apr 4 £249 £90 Mon 10 Sep* 4 £259 £90 *Club Class travel September only

Day 2 – After breakfast we visit Keukenhof Garden, the most beautiful Spring garden in the world! Pick up a map and enjoy free time wandering around the 32-hectares of magnificent gardens, which showcase over 7 million bulbs, in over 800 varieties of different flowers that explode into deep, rich and vibrant colours and aromatic fragrances around you.

Day 3 – Today we take you into Amsterdam.

Gentle canals make the perfect backdrop for exploring this remarkable city.

Nicknamed the ‘City of Bikes’, you won’t be disappointed walking around this petite city as you pass rows of colourful houses, cafés and shops all standing tall against the winding canals and idyllic bridges.

Day 4 – Today we travel back home.

HOTEL 4H

Golden Tulip, Zevenbergen Located in Zevenbergen, The Golden Tulip hotel offers all necessities for an unforgettable stay.

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

Discover beautiful Bruges, a picture-perfect city full of awe-inspiring Gothic buildings, cobbled streets and medieval houses. We include visits to Ghent and an optional excursion to Ypres to experience the moving Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate.

Hotel Olympia, Bruges

CONTINENTAL EUROPE

VEL* A R T S CLAS CLUB

NEW Dutch Bulbfields

4 days from £249 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 04 May 4 £249 £80

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MINI CRUISES

Marvellous Mini Cruises

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

includes • Return coach travel • Return ferry sailings • 2 nights cabin accommodation • Admission to Keukenhof Gardens

VALUE G IN ND UTSTA

O

optional Supplements Dinner/Breakfast package - £49pp Outside cabin with en-suite - £24pp Low Berth - £22pp

Enjoy low cost luxury on tempting short breaks across the ocean from Skills Continental.

Mini cruises are absolutely perfect if you’re new to the world of cruising, or are looking for an opportunity to try a cruise for the first time! A mini cruise need not be as daunting as you would expect, it’s the easiest way to experience a little bit of cruising teamed with top destinations.

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Mini Cruise - Keukenhof Gardens

Booking your mini cruise break is hassle-free with Skills. Simply place your booking and the rest is taken care of, meaning that when you board our coach, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the view whilst travelling by coach on the short journey to catch P&O’s cruise ferry ship.

Throughout your time aboard a P&O ship, there are a whole host of activities available for you to do as little or as much as you like. From savouring a delicious meal to winding down with a cocktail, there’s sure to be something to tickle your taste buds.

Once you’ve partied the night away or watched the sun go down, a blissful night’s sleep awaits you in your own comfortable ensuite cabin. You’ll feel refreshed and ready for a day of exploration upon arrival at your European destination of choice.

After a day of exploring, it’s then time to re-board the ship to enjoy another night packed full of entertainment whilst sailing back to the UK shores.

Whether you’re travelling in the height of summer or sailing during the winter months a ‘marvellous mini cruise’ awaits you!

Keukenhof Gardens © Olena_Znack

The world’s most photographed garden Keukenhof Gardens, in bloom is not to be missed. Known as the ‘Garden of Europe’, the world famous Keukenhof Gardens attracts thousands of visitors each year. Covering 32 hectares, the gardens are a true celebration of spring in all its magnificence with 7 million hand planted bulbs creating the most vibrant displays of tulips, daffodils and other delightful flowers.

Day 1 – We travel to Hull and board our cruise ferry. After settling into your cabin you are free to enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board.

endless springtime displays in the superb Keukenhof Gardens. This evening we return to the cruise ship to enjoy another evening of entertainment as we sail home.

Day 2 – Arriving early morning in Rotterdam, we disembark for the highlight of this tour. Wander through the

Day 3 – Arriving early morning in Hull, we disembark and complete our journey home.

“We have thoroughly enjoyed every minute.

Well done Skills!” - Mrs Sibson & Mrs Martin CRUISE SHIP

P&O Cruise Ferry

P&O Cruise Ferries pride themselves on offering ‘state of the art’ accommodation, with a range of facilities providing plenty to do for everyone whilst onboard.

3 days from £149 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 20 Apr 3 £149 CALL

Please note: All areas on board the ship are fully accessible with lifts and specially adapted cabins with wider doorways, disabled cabins will need to be requested at the time of booking.

Prices are per person, based on 2 adults sharing an inside standard twin cabin.

Mini Cruise - Bruges

includes

O

includes

VALUE G IN D N UTSTA

• Return coach travel • Return ferry sailings • 2 nights cabin accommodation • Excursion to Amsterdam

O

optional supplements

optional supplements

Dinner/Breakfast package - £49pp Outside cabin with en-suite - £24pp Low Berth - £22pp

Dinner/Breakfast package - £49pp Outside cabin with en-suite - £24pp Low Berth - £22pp

Bruges

Amsterdam

Soak up the culture of one of Europe’s most exciting cities with a full day in Amsterdam!

World famous for its museums and galleries, discover the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum before enjoying a relaxing cruise along one of the many canals.

Day 1 – We travel to Hull and board our cruise ferry. After settling into your cabin you are free to enjoy the various facilities and entertainment on board.

Day 1 – After boarding our impressive P&O cruise ferry the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Offering a number of facilities and entertainment onboard you are guaranteed a good evening ahead.

Day 2 – Arriving early morning we travel to Bruges for free time. This evening we return to the cruise ship to enjoy another evening of entertainment as we sail home.

Day 2 – Arriving early morning, we travel to the cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam for free time. This evening we return to the cruise ship to enjoy another evening of entertainment as we sail home.

Day 3 – We return home.

Day 3 – Today we will return back home.

CRUISE SHIP

P&O Cruise Ferries pride themselves on offering ‘state of the art’ accommodation, with a range of facilities providing plenty to do for everyone whilst onboard.

3 days from £149 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 23 Mar 3 £119 CALL Fri 01 Jun 3 £ 149 CALL

CRUISE SHIP

P&O Cruise Ferry

P&O Cruise Ferries pride themselves on offering ‘state of the art’ accommodation, with a range of facilities providing plenty to do for everyone whilst onboard.

3 Days from £119 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 23 Feb 3 £119 CALL Fri 18 May 3 £139 CALL Fri 06 Jul 3 £159 CALL

Please note: All areas on board the ship are fully accessible with lifts and specially adapted cabins with wider doorways, disabled cabins will need to be requested at the time of booking.

Prices are per person, based on 2 adults sharing an inside standard twin cabin.

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

A medieval masterpiece – Bruges is a step back in time with a modern twist.

Bruges is one of Europe’s most cherished cities, packed with ancient squares, pretty cobbled streets, winding canals and grand architecture, it’s no wonder it is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site!

P&O Cruise Ferry

MINI CRUISES

• Return coach travel • Return ferry sailings • 2 nights cabin accommodation • Excursion to Bruges

VALUE G IN ND UTSTA

Mini Cruise - Amsterdam

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CONTINENTAL EUROPE

NEW Amsterdam & Highlights of Holland RAVEL T S S CLA CLUB

includes • Club Class coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 3 nights bed & breakfast • Full day excursion to Amsterdam • Free time in Utrecht & Volendam

Canal Festival Amsterdam AS EXTR L A N OPTIO

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

Amsterdam canal © Adisa

Day 1 – Following early pick-ups we travel to Day 3 – Today we visit Utrecht and our resort.

Volendam for free time. Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, with a Day 2 – We take you into Amsterdam, compact medieval centre built around the where gentle canals form the perfect Dom Tower which you can see from any backdrop for exploring this remarkable city point in the city. Volendam is just north of today. Nicknamed the ‘City of Bikes’, you Amsterdam, and as Holland’s best-known won’t be disappointed walking as you pass fishing village, offers an handsome old rows of colourful houses, cafés and shops all harbour filled with grand Dutch ships. Later standing tall against the winding canals and this afternoon, we return to our hotel. idyllic bridges.

Day 4 – We return home.

HOTEL 4H

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Located in Zevenbergen, the Golden Tulip hotel offers all necessities for an unforgettable stay.

• Return coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursion to Amsterdam • Optional excursion to a traditional Cheese & clog making factory for a demonstration & tasting

Amsterdam canal © Ventdusud

Experience the very best of Holland, from the traditional towns of Volendam and enchanting Utrecht, to the capital city of Amsterdam, there is so much to see and do on this brand-new break.

Golden Tulip, Zevenbergen

includes

4 Days from £249 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 02 Mar 4 £249 £80

The magnificent ‘Grachtenfestival’ is the largest classical music festival in the Netherlands and is one of Amsterdam’s summer cultural highlights. The twinkling canals in the centre of Amsterdam form the perfect backdrop for performers of classical music, who come from all over the world to perform. This break is your perfect opportunity to experience the magic for yourself.

Day 1 – Following an early morning departure, we travel to our hotel in Amsterdam.

to enjoy another day in Amsterdam. Or, why not join us for an optional excursion to a traditional Dutch cheese farm and wooden shoe manufacturer where we have included Day 2 – Enjoy free time in the city today some cheese-tasting*. This afternoon we to experience the ‘Grachtenfestival’ for allow you more free time to enjoy the yourself! Perhaps find a spot in a nearby beautiful city of Amsterdam during the café and listen in awe, as the Canal Festival’s festival (*£10 per person - please enquire at concerts are performed on stages around time of booking). the city and even on the water, with musicians standing on boats to perform Day 4 – We wave goodbye to this cultural whilst floating along the winding canals. highlight and retrace our steps through Europe and back home.

Day 3 – After breakfast you will be at leisure

HOTEL 4H

Golden Tulip, Zevenbergen Located in Zevenbergen, the Golden Tulip hotel offers all necessities for an unforgettable stay.

4 days from £299 dates

days from s/supp

Thu 16 Aug 4 £299 £80 *Itinerary days are subject to change

Prepare to melt your winter blues away on this Winter Wonderland adventure through the heart of the Alps in Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. On this trip, we include a romantic sleigh ride through Bregenzerwald with a schnapps onboard, and an unforgettable journey on the world-famous Glacier Express train. highlights of your stay Day 1 – After an early morning start, we travel to our overnight hotel for the evening.

HOTEL 3H

Hotel Weisses Kreuz, Feldkirch

With a great central location, this hotel offers charming rooms & fine Swiss cuisine.

on this incredible journey.

Undoubtedly one of most famous in the world, it should not be missed.

Day 6 – We return to our overnight hotel – taking a souvenir from the hotel with us!

Day 7 – After breakfast, we continue our journey home.

Vaduz Davos Klosters

Vaduz

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

Bregenzerwald before arriving at Hittisau. Here, a sleigh will be waiting to take us on a romantic trip through the snowy hillside followed by Day 2 – We continue to the a home-distilled schnapps.

Hotel Weisses Kreuz, where Afterwards we continue we are welcomed by a winter to Schwarzenberg, one of punch.

Switzerland’s most beautiful areas and through Bödele, Day 3 – Today takes us into Grisons, the largest of the 22 where you can enjoy the Swiss cantons. We then travel magnificent views of Lake Constance. We finish the day through Prättigau until we reach Klosters, Prince Charles’ with included entry to the preferred winter sport resort world’s largest Rolls-Royce Museum, here you can gain and finally Davos, where we enjoy some free time. On our an insight into the renovation of one of the world’s most return journey, we’ll pass by the vineyards of the Bündner famous automobiles.

Herrschaft on the way to Day 5 – Today we have Vaduz, the capital city of the arranged a journey on Principality of Liechtenstein.

Switzerland’s best known railway, the Glacier Express.

Day 4 – After breakfast we travel through the wonderful Travelling on the 2nd class coach you can enjoy Europe’s landscapes of Dornbirn and most beautiful scenery

Hittisau

Feldkirch

CONTINENTAL EUROPE

NEW Winter Wonderland on the Glacier Express

includes • Return coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Welcome drink & hotel entertainment • Journey on the Glacier Express & sleigh ride • Entry to the Rolls-Royce museum • Excursions to Grisons, Klosters, Davos, Vaduz, Hittisau & Schwarzenberg

7 days from £339 dates

days from

s/supp

Sat 27 Jan 7 £569 £70

63

CONTINENTAL EUROPE

St Patrick’s Day in Belfast RAVEL T S S CLA CLUB

includes • Club Class coach travel • Return ferry sailing • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Full day to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Belfast • Coastal drive along the Antrim Coast

Belfast, Titanic Experience & Giant’s Causeway

includes

RAVEL T S S CLA CLUB

• Club Class coach travel • Return ferry sailing • 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Guided tour of Belfast • Entrance to the Titanic Belfast, Dock & Pump House • Free time in Belfast • Optional tour to Giant’s Causeway • Scenic drive of Antrim Coast* • Free time in Ballycastle*

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

Giants CausewaY © Kilhan

Green is the theme for this break as we travel to Belfast to celebrate St Patricks Day! An experience which will get your feet jigging! On this short break, we also include a coastal drive along the stunning Antrim Coast and free time in Portrush.

the Giant’s Causeway (shuttle not included). Day 1 – We travel to our hotel.

Later this afternoon we visit Portrush, a small Day 2 (April only) – This morning we have seaside town for free time before returning arranged a guided tour of Belfast. Explore Day 2 – Today we head into Belfast which is to the hotel for dinner. iconic landmarks such as City Hall and the sure to be awash with colour this St Patrick’s Peace Wall. Spend the rest of the day at Day! Enjoy the family-friendly carnival Day 4 – We leave our hotel and begin our leisure or join our optional exursion to atmosphere with a spectacular parade return journey home.

Giant’s Causeway* (*£15 per person - please and an eclectic range of entertainment enquire at time of booking). throughout the day!

HOTEL 3H

Loughshore Hotel, Belfast

64

Follow the extraordinary story of the largest moving object ever built by man, on a tour through the Titanic Exhibition. Here you’ll see original material alongside vintage photographs, heart-wrenching recordings and news reels to bring the story back to life.

Day 1 – We travel to our hotel for 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast.

Day 2 (September only) – As above. This afternoon enjoy free time in Dublin.

Day 3 – After breakfast we take you on a coastal drive along the Antrim Coast, voted as one of the top five road trips – and when you experience it you’ll know why!

Winding between picturesque villages and unforgettable scenic locations until we reach

The Loughshore Hotel offers contemporary & stylish accommodation.

Day 3 – Begin the day at Titanic Belfast, this exhibition retraces the ship’s story from creation to its rediscovery. Afterwards, we visit the Titanic Dock & Pump House, this

4 days from £299 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 16 Mar 4 £299 NIL

(*Sep only)

authentic landmark provides visitors with the story of the docks, before you descend 44 ft to the bottom of the dry dock where the Titanic last sat on the ground.

Day 4 (September only) – Enjoy a coastal drive along the Antrim Coast, winding between picturesque villages and unforgettable scenic locations until we reach the Giant’s Causeway (shuttle not included).

After some free time we travel to the idyllic town of Ballycastle, located on the northeasternmost costal tip of Ireland in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Day 5 (September only) – We travel home.

HOTEL 4H

La Mon Hotel & Country Park, Belfast

Surrounded by the countryside, this hotel boasts luxury accommodation & great relaxation facilities.

4 days from £329 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 16 Apr 4 £329 £90 Mon 17 Sep 5 £359 £90 *Itinarery days are subject to change

Singles: 4* Irish Taster

includes • Club Class coach travel* (Sep only) • Return Channel crossings • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Tea/coffee on arrival • 25% discounts available on selected spa treatments • Excursions to Belvedere Castle & Gardens and Athlone • Tour & tasting at Kilbeggen Distillery Belverdere Castle ©

Day 1 – We sail across to Ireland and tasting! This afternoon we take you to Dublin continue to our hotel in the Irish countryside. for free time to explore.

Day 4 – After a leisurely morning we visit Athlone this afternoon, a designated historic town commonly known as the ‘Gateway to the West’ situated along the River Shannon.

During your time at leisure, perhaps visit Athlone Castle, a major attraction that features a Castle Visitor Centre and the Luan Art Gallery.

Day 3 – We travel East, calling in at Kilbeggan Distillery where we have arranged a tour and Day 5 – We return home.

HOTEL 4H

Nestled on the shores of Lough Ennell, Bloomfield House Hotel is the perfect country escape.

• Club Class coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast • 5 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Free bar each evening (from 7pm - 10pm) • Excursions to Merano, Vipiteno, Passo Pordoi & Ortisei • Italian Dolomites tour • Free time in resort

5 Days from £439 dates

days from s/supp

Mon 03 Sep 5 £439 NIL *Club Class Coach travel in September only

Discover Italy’s dazzling Dolomites on this spectacular break away. Offering a unique mix of Italian and Austrian cultures, in a breath taking Alpine setting. Along with a tour of the Italian Dolomites, we include visits to Merano, Vipiteno, Passo Pordoi & Ortisei.

Day 1 – Travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 2 – We continue to our hotel, there will be a free bar each evening during our stay.

Day 3 – This morning we’ll pass through breath-taking scenery, until we reach the beautiful spa town of Merano, where we will enjoy free time. This Alpine-Mediterranean town is rooted in history and tradition, and well known for its delicious coffee and pastries! Later, we return via the stunning wine route of Alto Adige, and enjoy a stop in Caldaro for a wine tasting.

Day 4 – A day at leisure in the hotel – perhaps, pamper yourself in the onsite

wellness centre (fees may apply). This evening, we enjoy a torchlight walk through the romantic village.

Day 5 – Today we visit Vipiteno – the most northern city in Italy!

Day 6 – Enjoy a full day tour of the Italian Dolomites – a dramatic, UNESCO-protected chain of peaks and valleys. Throughout our day we will enjoy leisurely stops at Passo Pordoi & Ortisei.

Day 7 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 – We return home.

HOTEL 3H

Lady Maria Hotel, Fondo Surrounded by the Dolomites, Lady Maria Hotel offers an indoor pool, a spa and Turkish baths.

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

“The only holiday I would consider doing again, in short it’s the full package!” - Mr L Gibbs

Bloomfield House Hotel Leisure Club & Spa

EL TRAV S S A CL CLUB

Lago di Limides, Italian Dolomites © Irakite

On this great value break we stay in a 4* hotel, where you can even indulge in a little ‘me’ time with a 25% off voucher on spa treatments! We’ve also included excursions to Dublin, Belvedere Castle & a tour and tasting at Kilbeggan Distillery.

Day 2 – Today we visit Belvedere Castle & Gardens. This stately house boasts a magnificent 160-acre lakeside estate and a Victorian Walled Garden. The afternoon is spent at your leisure - maybe make use of the 25% off spa treatments that are available at the hotel.

includes CONTINENTAL EUROPE

Y ERAR IN T I ED REVIS

NEW Singles: The Italian Dolomites

8 days from £639 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 13 Oct 8 £639 NIL

65

CONTINENTAL EUROPE

Italian & French Riviera Easter Special AVEL R T S CLAS CLUB

includes • Club Class coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast • 6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursions to San Remo, Nicé & Eze

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

Almalfi Coast, French Riviera ©Blue Jay Photo

“This tour is outstanding, this is the 3rd time we’ve been and this is the best hotel we have stayed in.” - Mr & Mrs W B Dalby Day 2 – We continue to the Hotel Palace in Diano Marina, Italy.

Day 3 – Enjoy a relaxing day today exploring the resort of Diano Marina.

Day 4 – This morning we visit San Remo.

Attracting visitors from all over Europe, the beach is its main attraction but it also offers an impressive hillside medieval old town called ‘La Pigna.’

Day 5 – Today we have planned a full day excursion to Nicé and Eze. The tiny village of Eze is one of the jewels of the south of France. Perched on a rocky hill, it offers wonderful views of the surrounding hills and water below. While Nicé is a must-see amd a magnet for sunseekers offering fabulous markets, an enticing old town and glorious architecture.

Day 6 – We return to our overnight hotel.

Day 7 – We return home.

HOTEL 3H

Hotel Palace, Diano Marina

66

Situated in a beautiful spot, facing a sandy beach & connected to the town centre through a splendid seaside promenade.

includes

AVEL* R T S CLAS CLUB

• Club Class coach travel* (May only) • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast • 6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Excursion to Florence, Pisa, Lucca & Siena • Free time in Montecatini • Optional excursion to San Gimignano Florence © Serr Novik

Add some colour to your cheeks on this elegant escape to the sun-kissed shores of the Italian and French Riviera. With included excursions to San Remo, Eze and Nicé, this irresistible break promises golden coastlines and sunshine the whole year round.

Day 1 – We travel to our overnight hotel.

Treasures of Tuscany

7 days from £479 dates

days from s/supp

Sun 25 Mar 7 £479 £115

One of the most beautiful regions in Italy, Tuscany, is famed for medieval towns and beautiful coasts. On this tour we visit Florence, Italy’s city of art and culture; Pisa, home to the famous leaning tower; graceful Lucca, birthplace of Puccini and Siena which charms its visitors with an array of fine architecture.

“Great value for money. Enjoyed every moment.”

- Mr & Ms Wilsher

Day 6 – After breakfast we visit Siena, recognisable from the James Bond movie Day 2 – Continue to our hotel in Montecatini. ‘Quantum of Solace.’ Siena is a city where the Day 3 – Visit Pisa, home to one of the world’s architecture soars, showcasing spectacular and extraordinary monuments. most famous landmarks, the renowned Leaning Tower. After some free time, we visit Day 7 – Enjoy another day at leisure or, the Roman City of Lucca, surrounded by a join us for an optional excursion to San medieval wall.

Gimignano (£15 per person - please enquire Day 1 – Travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 4 – Day at leisure.

at time of booking).

Day 5 – We visit Florence, ladened with cultural attractions and charm.

Day 8 – Travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 9 – We return home.

HOTEL 4H

Hotel Biondi, Montecatini

9 days from £599 dates

days from s/supp

Featuring a garden, an indoor pool Sat 26 May* 9 £599 £125 & a Tuscan restaurant, Hotel Biondi Sat 21 Jul 9 £599 £125 offers classic-style rooms with free Sat 25 Aug 9 £599 £ 125 Wi-Fi in public areas. *Club Class Coach travel in May only

NEW Spring in Lake Garda

includes • Club Class coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast • 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Welcome drink • Lake Garda boat trip • Excursion to Verona • Free time in Riva Del Garda

Riva del Garda, Lake Garda © xbrchx

explore the town’s elegant pastel-painted buildings, medieval architecture and lakeside piazzas which boast some excellent shops, cafés and restaurants.

Day 7 – Travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 8 – We return home.

HOTEL 3H

Located in Riva Del Garda’s historical centre, just a short walk to the beach.

• Club Class coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast • 6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast • Lake Garda boat trip • Excursion to Venice & Verona • Optional wine tasting afternoon & guided tour of Verona

8 Days from £499 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 14 Apr 8 £499 £125

Renowned for its beauty, Lake Garda is a blend of picturesque villages and lakeside promenades, framed by breathtaking mountains which make it one of Italy’s most cherished destinations. On this break we combine a peaceful Lake tour with excursions to Venice and Verona and an optional wine tasting afternoon.

“Good hotel, in an excellent location!

Day 1/3 – Same as ‘Spring in Lake Garda’.

Day 4 – We take you to Venice, more romantic and more beautiful than you could ever imagine. Marvel at the gold mosaics of St Mark’s Cathedral, visit Doge’s Palace or simply explore the city’s maze of canals - a visit here is an unforgettable experience.

- Mr & Mrs D J Knight

Day 6 – Enjoy free time. Or join us on an optional wine tasting afternoon (£18 per person - please enquire at time of booking).

Day 7 – Today we visit Verona, home to Roman marble monuments that have been fantastically preserved within the walls of its Old Town. You can also join us for an optional guided tour of the city (£10 per person Day 5 – Today we have arranged a boat tour please enquire at time of booking). on Lake Garda, stopping for free time in Sirmione. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, as we Day 8 – Travel to our overnight hotel. float past majestic mountains and charming Day 9 – We return home. lakeside villages.

HOTEL 3H

Hotel Centrale, Riva Del Garda

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

Day 5 – After breakfast we visit Verona, most famous for its star-crossed lovers Romeo Day 2 – We continue to Riva Del Garda. and Juliet! As one of Italy’s loveliest towns, Verona will take you thousands of years back Day 3 – Enjoy free time to explore your in time with its Roman marble monuments resort. Riva del Garda is located at the foot of the mountains, its Mediterranean climate that have been fantastically preserved within the walls of its Old Town. and wide sunny beaches are the perfect ingredients for an unforgettable stay.

Day 6 – Indulge in another day at leisure, Day 1 – Travel to our overnight hotel.

Hotel Centrale, Riva Del Garda

EL TRAV S S A CL CLUB

Grand canal with Gondolas & Rialto Bridge, Venice © xbrchx

Lake Garda is renowned for its beauty, so this spring let breath-taking mountains form the backdrop for shimmering waters and picturesque villages as we explore Italy’s largest lake. On this break we include a lake tour and excursions to Sirmione and Verona

Day 4 – Today we enjoy a relaxing lake tour around the charming lakeside towns on the eastern shore of Lake Garda. During the day, we will stop off for free time in Sirmione, one of the most popular sights on Lake Garda, best known for its famous castle and Roman ruins.

includes CONTINENTAL EUROPE

RAVEL T S S CLA CLUB

Lake Garda, Venice & Verona

9 days from £679 dates

Sat 30 Jun Located in Riva Del Garda’s historical centre, just a short walk to Sat 08 Sep the beach.

days from s/supp

9 £679 £135 9 £699 £135

67

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

DISNEYLAND PARIS

KIDS

!

M £65 O R F GO

includes • Return Channel crossing • 3 nights bed & continental breakfast • 2 day Disney Park Hopper ticket • Free time in Disneyland Paris • Optional extras & upgrades available

Disneyland Paris Imagine a place where the wonderful world of Disney comes alive, imagine a Disneyland® Park where make believe is real and a place where dreams really do come true! This year the magic is closer than you think! highlights of your stay Day 1 – Relax on board as we begin our fairytale break with Disney themed entertainment on board our Skills coach!

Disneyland® Park: Disneyland® Park is an enchanted world for the old and young at heart. Through its five magical Lands with shows and attractions for all Day 2/3 – During your stay ages, you will experience the we’ve included a 2-day thrill of adventure, the spirit Disney® Park Hopper ticket of fantasy and the wonder which allows you to enter of discovery. Relive some and leave both parks as often wonderful memories and as you like during the days discover the magic, where valid on your ticket and also fantasy is reality and reality is gives you unlimited access to fantastic. many of the attractions and shows!

Day 4 – We return home.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS* Take a look at our fabulous optional extras to make your stay even more special. Please note, that all of these are subject to availability and advanced booking is essential!

Half Board Meal Plans: Standard Plan (Adult £50/Child £30 per person) Plus Plan (Adult £56/Child £34 per person) Premium Plan (Adult £86/Child £50 per person)

Pre-booking a Meal Plan saves you up to 15% (and a whole lot of effort!), it is a great help with your budgeting and is very flexible to use at so many Disney restaurants.

Hotel Upgrade: Newport Bay Club Enjoy the charm of this 1900s coastal mansion nestled next to Lake Disney®. This Hotel is just a 15 minute walk from the Park and only a few minutes by free shuttle.

HOTEL 3H

Santa Fe

Discover this oasis of comfort on Route 66, where a Santa Fe-themed Hotel delivers classic Disney value and hospitality.

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Walt Disney Studios® Park: Inside the Walt Disney Studios® Park... It’s Lights!

Camera! Magic! Everywhere, all the time! Step through the Studio Gates and let your imagination soar. Immerse yourself in the never-ending, always fascinating worlds of Cinema, Animation and Television in a journey through four Zones. All with one single focus: Entertainment!

4 days from £329 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 16 Feb 4 £329 C ALL Wed 29 Aug 5 £489 C ALL

*All optional extras are subject to availability, advanced booking is essential! Please ask at time of enquiry. Prices based on 4 adults in one room, supplements apply for lower occupancy. Please ask for child prices.

Costa Brava & Barcelona

• Club Class coach travel • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast en-route • 5 nights dinner, bed & breakfast in resort • Welcome drink • Water & wine with every evening meal • Excursions to Tossa de Mar, Lloret de Mar, Barcelona, Girona & Besalú • Free time in resort

EL TRAV

Calella © Proformabooks

Day 1 – Travel to overnight hotel.

renowned for its art, architecture and unbeatable cuisine!

Day 2 – On arrival at the Hotel Volga, we enjoy a welcome drink and throughout our Day 6 – Visit Girona, one of the most stay water and wine will be served with our interesting cities in Catalonia thanks to its historic centre dominated by medieval evening meals. buildings and reminders of its Roman Day 3 – Full day excursion to the typically beginnings. We also visit Besalú, dating back Catalan towns of Tossa de Mar and Lloret to the 11th century, today this secret little de Mar. We recommend a stroll along the village is a quirky mix of old and new. walled enceinte’s narrow alleyways and up to the famous Lighthouse, where you’ll be Day 7 – We bid a fond farewell to our hosts able to enjoy the magnificent coastal views. before we make our way to our return overnight hotel for one night bed and Day 4 – Enjoy free time to explore your breakfast. resort of Calella.

Day 8 – After an early breakfast we Day 5 – Visit Barcelona, the cosmopolitan continue our journey home. capital of Spain’s Catalonia region is

HOTEL 4H

Hotel Volga, Calella

Situated near Calella beach, Hotel Volga has a swimming pool, free Wi Fi acess and a relaxing terrace area.

8 Days from £489 dates

days from s/supp

Fri 27 Apr

8 £489 £185

*Itinerary days are subject to change

Calella © Betelgajze

includes

Calella © Betelgajze

Calella © Betelgajze

• Club Class coach travel* • Return Channel crossings • 2 nights bed & breakfast en-route • 6 nights dinner, bed & breakfast in resort • Welcome drink • Water & wine with every evening meal • Excursions to Tossa de Mar, Lloret de Mar, Barcelona & Girona • Optional excursion to Monserrat • Free time in resort

Soak up the sunshine on this sizzling summer holiday to Costa Brava, Barcelona and Girona! Offering miles of stunning sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and delicious cuisine, it’s easy to see why Spain is one of the most popular holiday destinations!

Day 7 – Enjoy free time, or join us on our Day 1 – After an early morning departure, we enjoy a leisurely journey to our overnight optional excursion to Monserrat*. For many a trip to Montserrat is the highlight hotel. of their visit. A spectacularly beautiful Day 2 – On arrival at the Hotel Kaktus Playa, Benedictine monk mountain retreat, not we enjoy a welcome drink and throughout only is Montserrat Monastery of significant our stay, water and wine will be served with religious importance but the natural beauty our evening meals. surrounding the monastery is simply Day 3/4 – Same as ‘Costa Brava & Barcelona’. breathtaking (*£12 per person - please enquire at time of booking).

Day 5 – Visit Barcelona, the cosmopolitan capital of Spain’s Catalonia region is Day 8 – Sit back and relax as we make our renowned for its art, architecture and way to our overnight hotel. unbeatable cuisine!

Day 9 – After an early start we reboard our Day 6 – Same as ‘Costa Brava & Barcelona’. coach and continue our way home.

HOTEL 4H

Hotel Kaktus Playa, Calella

Situated near Calella beach, the Hotel Kaktus, has an outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace.

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

Step into the Costa Brava & Barcelona on this spring special! Staying in the palmdotted Calella de la Costa, we include excursions to Tossa de Mar, Lloret de Mar, Girona, Besalú and Barcelona - the perfect break to wave your worries goodbye.

NEW Costa Brava, Barcelona & Girona

CONTINENTAL EUROPE

S CLAS CLUB

includes

9 days from £589 dates

days from s/supp

Sat 02 Jun* 9 £589 £210 Sat 01 Sep 9 £619 £210 *Club Class coach travel June only.

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1. Who are we?

This Trading Charter/Booking Conditions are the standard trading conditions of Skills Motor Coaches Ltd (t/a Skills Holidays) [or Skills Travel Ltd (t/a Skills Day Out and Coachstyle) 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.

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 cancelation 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.

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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 booking 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 £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.

Please note an additional charge will be made on all credit card payments for deposits and balances (currently 2.75%). These charges are in line with consumer rights (payment surcharges) regulations 2012 and cover the necessary administration charges covered by the company for processing credit card payments. No additional charge is applicable when using a debit card.

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 % 41 days or more 40-36 days 35-22 days 21-14 days 13 days or less

Loss of deposit 40% 60% 85% 100%

12.1 Scale of cancellation charges for Day trips Period before departure within which written notification is received Amount of cancellation charge shown as % 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), a change of mode when crossing the Channel or, the specification of the coach.

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 change is notified to you or your agent Amount per person More than 56 days 29-56 days 15-28 days 8-14 days 0-7 days

Nil £10 £15 £20 £25

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 26.1 You must not use mobile phones or other electronic devices on the coach in a manner which, in the reasonable opinion of the coach driver or tour representative, might annoy, or distress other passengers or distract our driver. We would request that mobile phone devices only be used on the coach in the case of emergency.

26.2 You must not consume alcohol on the coach.

26.3 We accept no responsibility if you leave or lose your luggage or your luggage gets lost or damaged in transit for any reason 26.4 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.

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 2017 on behalf of Skills Motor Coaches Ltd (t/a Skills Holidays), Registered in England No. 00612324 whose registered office is Belgrave Business Park, Belgrave Road, Bulwell, Nottingham NG6 8LY.

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