Coach Touring Magazine issue 1 2025

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the modern voice of coach tourism

Issue 1 2025 £3.50

www. coachtouring-live .com

Coach Tourism Association

The British Tourism & Travel Show

Marvelous Markets We’re on for 2025 Distilleries, Breweries & Vineyards

Easter Eggstravaganza

Spotlight on Kent

Superior Suffolk

World Heritage Sites

South East Showcase

Croatia –

Coastline s, culture , and coac h-friendly experienc es

Evgeniya Moroz shutterstock

CoachTouring

TM

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GREAT FOR

Groups Why not join the hundreds of groups that travel with us every year and discover all the benefits of Daish’s Holidays for yourself.

FREE

All our hotels are accredited as COVID safe under the Visit Britain good to go scheme

places for groups over 20 people

A choice of 12 fantastic hotels spread across 10 locations

Great value half board breaks including nightly entertainment

Fleet of 26 luxury coaches to provide comfortable travel

Dedicated groups team to support you from booking to arrival

Over 40 years of award winning customer service

Get in touch with us Today!

Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com

facebook.com/daishsholidaysforgroups

@daishs4groups

Isle of Wight

Bournemouth

Eastbourne

Newquay

Weymouth

Blackpool

Llandudno

Torquay

Lake District

Scarborough

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Contents

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Comment

4 - News There’s an art to coach touring, and it’s not simply about finding the best routes—it’s about creating seamless experiences for your passengers while keeping the logistics running like clockwork. It’s about the satisfaction of crafting an itinerary that balances must-see attractions with hidden gems, ensuring every stop adds value and every meal stop is more than just a refuelling exercise.

This issue, we focus on helping you plan tours that stand out. From the rolling hills of Kent to the market towns of Yorkshire, from the grand old houses of history to the vineyards, breweries, and distilleries that provide memorable group experiences, we highlight destinations designed to delight your customers and make your life easier.Looking ahead, we examine industry trends, new opportunities, and the destinations that should be on your radar. The demand for quality group travel is growing, and whether it’s heritage attractions, seasonal highlights, or regional showcases, we’re here to help you stay ahead.

Croatia is in the spotlight this month—Dubrovnik gleaming like a Renaissance painting, Split blending history with a lively atmosphere, and Plitvice serving up jaw-dropping landscapes. And, of course, there’s rakija—the national drink that’s less of a beverage and more of a bonding ritual, best enjoyed in good company (and with a clear schedule the next morning).

6 - Coach Tourism Association 8 - Marvelous Markets 10 - Distilleries, Breweries & Vineyards

joyfull shutterstock

from the Coach TourismAssociation, helping you stay informed and connected with industry developments.

12 - Beauty & the Beast

Easter extravaganzas, superior Suffolk, and the best of the South East are all featured, providing inspiration for tours that will keep your customers coming back for more.A must-attend event for all in the industry, the British Tourism & Travel Show returns to the NEC Birmingham on 19-20 March. This key event offers a unique opportunity for coach operators, tour planners, and group travel organisers to discover new experiences, network with industry professionals, and gain practical insights. With over 200 exhibitors and a dynamic keynote programme covering everything from sustainable tourism to customer engagement strategies, it’s an invaluable resource for planning standout itineraries.

18 - Wish You Were Here

So, whether you’re planning next season’s itineraries or looking for fresh ideas to enhance your tour offerings, welcome to this issue.

We hope you find insights, inspiration, and—most importantly practical ideas to make your tours a success.

Nigel

14 - Spotlight on Kent 16 - World Heritage Sites

20 - We’re on for 2025 26 - Easter Eggstravaganza 30 - Yorkshires’ Finest 32 - Superior Suffolk 34 - South East Showcase 36 - Houses of Historical Interest 42 - Croatia

Sales: Brett Kirby Tel: 0121 445 6961 Production: Julie Callaghan Design: Alexina Whittaker Front Cover: Shutterstock.com Publishing Director: Hugh Cairns Managing Director: Nigel Whittaker

Beau Business Media Group Ltd Publishing House, Windrush, Ash Lane, Birmingham, B48 7TS Tel: 0121 445 6961 Fax: 0121 445 4436 e-mail: beaubusinessmedia@gmail.com Coach Touring is a controlled circulation publication and freely available to qualifying applicants.

Care is taken to ensure that the information contained within the magazine is accurate. However, the publisher cannot accept liability for errors or omissions, no matter how they arise. Readers are advised to get facts and statements confirmed by suppliers when making enquiries. The opinions of the author are not necessarily those as the publisher. All rights are reserved. No reproduction of any part of this magazine may be carried out without the consent of the publisher being obtained in the first instance.

Elsewhere, we highlight the latest 3

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Trade Talk

Coach Touring

English Heritage Group Admission Guide 2025/26 Now Available

English Heritage has released its Group Admission Prices & Site Opening Times 2025/26guide, offering essential details for coach tour operators planning

visits to historic sites.

Coach groups are encouraged to explore Dover Castle in 2025.

Highlights include the

Medieval Great Tower, the pageantry of King Henry II’s cour, and the new Siege Exhibition.

parking and complimentary entry for guides and drivers (for groups of 11+ visitors) are also included.

Visitors can also explore the Second World War tunnels, where the story of Operation Dynamo and the 1940 Dunkirk evacuation is told.

Groups booking by 28 March can enjoy an increased 25% discount (up from 15%). Free coach

Inquiries:bookings@english -heritage.org.uk More details: DoverCastle www.englishheritage.org.uk/visit/places/

Exciting Year Ahead for Groups Visiting Newcastle, Gateshead & North East in 2025 A wave of new hotel openings, exhibitions, and anniversaries will make 2025 a standout year for groups visiting Newcastle, Gateshead and the North East.Spring sees the launch of Gotham Hotel Newcastle, a luxury 5-star property in a former fire and police station, offering 60 rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Also opening is

Dakota Newcastle Quayside, featuring 116 rooms and waterfront suites. In Alnwick, Northumberland, the Bailiffgate Hotel will open in June with 48 rooms, suites, and apartments.

Front Cover

lively cafés, and seafood tavernas create a welcoming atmosphere.

The seafront promenade offers stunning sunsets, while hidden courtyards reveal centuries of history.

With its mix of culture, coastline, and relaxed charm, Poreč Old Town is an unforgettable stop in

Attractions include Locomotion railway museum's Railway Firsts exhibition and S&DR200, a

major festival marking 200 years of the Stockton & Darlington Railway.Major events includethe Come

Together Festival (4-8 June), Newcastle’s biggestever music festival.

Evgeniya Moroz shutterstock

Poreč Old Town is a charming blend of Roman heritage and Adriatic beauty on Croatia’s Istrian coast. Its cobbled streets lead to the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO gem with glittering mosaics.

Venetian-style buildings,

ATGImages shutterstock

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BRITAIN AND IRELAND’S LEADING GROUP TRAVEL TRADE EVENT Find inspiration for group tours and packages across the British Isles and beyond. With over 200 destinations, coachfriendly attractions, and hotels to discover, there will be no shortage of inspiration for coach tour operators.

19-20 March 2025 NEC Birmingham Register today for FREE entry

@TourismTravelShow

@Tourism_Show

btts_TourismShow

#BTTS25

TOURISMSHOW.CO.UK

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Coach Touring I The Coach Tourism Association

The Coach Tourism Association CTA Conference & Workshop 2025 Breaks Records in Stratford-uponAvon The CTA Conference & Workshop 2025 achieved its highest-ever attendance, with 200 members gathering in Stratford-upon-Avon from 8-11 February. The event’s centrepiece, the Meet the Buyer Workshop, set a new record with 1,200 business meetings, reinforcing its status as the leading business event in the coach tourism sector.

Supported by Gold Sponsor DFDS and Silver Sponsor Trust My Travel, the weekend commenced with an informal welcome at Vine Hotels’ Clarion Charlecote Pheasant hotel, before delegates

saw a record turnout.

Operators and wholesalers met with industry suppliers from across the sector, underlining the Workshop’s importance as a key forum for planning future travel programmes.

transferred to the main host venue, the Crowne Plaza Stratford-upon-Avon.

Sunday featured a familiarisation visit to Shakespeare’s Birthplace, with a guided tour of key Shakespearean sites, including Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, led by Blue Badge Guide Roger Bailey and facilitated by Johnsons Coaches. Delegates later enjoyed a guided tasting session at Shakespeare Distillery before an evening of historical performances from Events From History, including an abridged rendition of Romeo & Juliet.

The Conference session saw transport correspondent Peter Plisner in conversation with broadcaster Anthea Turner, who encouraged members to focus on their core strengths and promote the exceptional standards of coach holidays. A lively operator panel, featuring representatives from Blakes Coaches, RB Travel/Taurus Holidays, Jason Edwards Travel, and Acklams Coaches, addressed topics including attracting younger customers, hotel and port

Monday’s Meet the Buyer Workshop, the flagship business development session of the conference,

service levels, and reshaping the perception of coach tourism.

Delegates closed the evening with a visit to Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall, followed by dinner at the RSC Stratford Rooftop restaurant. The event concluded on Tuesday with a visit to St Mary’s Guildhall, Coventry—one of the UK’s finest medieval guildhalls, once home to the Crown Jewels.

Upcoming CTA Events: CTA Member Networking at BTTS – 19-20 March CTA Spring Networking – 17-19 May, Norwich CTA Networking at WTM – 4 November, ExCeL London

Claudio Divizia shutterstock

CTA Winter Networking – 21-24 November, Perthshire CTA Conference & Workshop 2026 – 7-10 February, Derry-Londonderry Booking details: www.coachtourism association.co.uk/cta-events/

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THE S H O RT 20 TH CE NTURY TRACES OF THREE WARS IN HEUVELLAND Heuvelland is the only municipality in Flanders where there are still traces of the three great conflicts of the previous century. Inspired by the book The Age of Extremes: The Short Twentieth Century, 1914-1991 by the famous British historian Eric Hobsbawn, Heuvelland Tourism has put together an interesting arrangement. Accompanied by a specialist guide, you will visit the following three sites:

WWI: BAYERNWALD: The Germans captured this 40 metre-high strategic location in 1914 and turned it into an impregnable fortress, which they held until the summer of 1917. The ingenious trench system at Bayernwald was the German answer to the mining threat posed by their British opponents.

Part of this system has been accurately reconstructed. Its listening shafts, trenches and four bunkers tell the story of the war from the German side.

WWII: BUNKER FROM THE MAGINOT LINE ON THE ZWARTEBERG: Increasing German militarism during the 1930s forced France to build a new defensive line along its frontier. The brain behind this plan was the French Minister of War, André Maginot, a decorated veteran from the Great War. He died in 1932 but the new fortifications were named after him posthumously. The Maginot bunker on the Black Mountain is of the S10 type and was known as Ermitage Sud (Hermitage South).

COLD WAR: THE COMMAND BUNKER After WWII, France, Great Britain, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxemburg decided to develop a joint air defence system. Three huge underground bunkers were constructed as part of this system, with one of them – in Kemmel, started in 1952 – serving as the command post. The guide will conduct you through two of the underground levels, where some of the more than 50 rooms have been turned into a museum. Wherever possible, the rooms have been left as they were during the Cold War, so that you can sample the authentic 1950s atmosphere.

All the locations in this arrangement can be visited individually.

Bayernwald

Maginotbunker

Commandobunker 1953

VISITORS CENTRE ‘HET HEUVELLAND’ Sint-Laurentiusplein 1, B-8950 Heuvelland-Kemmel T. +32 57 45 04 55 • E-mail: toerisme@heuvelland.be website: www.tourismheuvelland.be • facebook: www.facebook.com/heuvelland.be

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Coach Touring

Marvelous Markets Bustling stalls, enticing aromas, and hidden gems—this coach trip to a vibrant market promises a day of discovery, delicious treats, and plenty of bargains.

Visit Bury’s Award Winning Market Eat, Drink, & Shop Local

Jubilee Market: A Covent Garden Gem Established in 1904, Jubilee Market is a Grade II listed gem in the heart of Covent Garden. Named in tribute to Queen Victoria, this vibrant market offers a mix of eclectic arts, crafts, antiques, and general market items across three markets over seven days.

With 120 stalls, it’s a haven for tourists to browse and soak up the unique atmosphere. Remarkably, it’s the only London market owned by its traders, holding a 125-year lease.

Bury’s multi award winning market (including Britain’s Favourite Market 2022 and Best Market Attraction 2023) is located at the heart of Bury Town Centre and is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the North West.

conveniently nearby.

Groups of 10+ can book a guided tour to explore the market and receive discount wristbands, valid across all stalls (Tuesday– Sunday). Alternatively, request wristbands in advance for your visit.

Experience the bustling charm of Jubilee Market— an iconic shopping destination.

This shopping venue attracts coach visitors from all across the UK; and with the majority of the markets’ 300 stalls being undercover, makes it a great place to visit all year round. The market is all on one level and accessible to all, with disabled facilities centrally located on the

www.jubileemarket.co.uk

Open Market.

It offers 19 free coach parking spots, and excellent facilities for group comforts, a free £7.50 coach drivers’ lunch voucher which can be used at multiple cafes and eateries on the market, and a dropoff/pick-up point for coach passengers which is situated on the edge of the Market and is free to use by all coach companies.

Situated off Junction 2 of the M66 on the borders of Lancashire and Greater Manchester, Bury’s Award Winning Market is situated at the heart of the town centre; just follow the brown tourist signs for Bury’s Famous Market.

The best days to organise trips are Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, when over 500 retailers are open in Bury.

Group Shopping & Guided Tours Pre-booked groups can enjoy discounted shopping, guided tours, and dining options. Coach drop-off points and public toilets are

www.burymarket.com 8

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barry@jubileemarket.co.uk www.jubileemarket.co.uk @jubileemarket @jubilee.market @jubileemarket75

Covent Garden’s historic indoor Jubilee Market has plenty to offer for a fabulous shopping trip.

Visit Your Award-Winning

Cuisine From All Across the World, All in One Place

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Coach Touring

Distilleries, Breweries & Vineyards Raise a glass to a coach trip filled with flavour, as we journey through distilleries, breweries, and vineyards, sampling fine whiskies, craft beers, and exquisite wines.

Discover Scotland’s Spirit at Annandale Distillery Annandale Distillery, located just beyond the English border in Dumfries and Galloway, is a mustvisit for group and coach parties seeking a taste of Scotland’s whisky heritage.

Renowned for its awardwinning single cask, single malts, including the elegant 'Man O’Words' and bold 'Man O’Sword', the distillery also crafts the

premium blend STORYMAN. Groups can delve into the craft of whisky making with guided tours that reveal the journey from barley to barrel. Learn about Annandale’s rich history, its traditional methods, and its remarkable revival as a working distillery. After the tour, unwind in the charming Maltings Coffee Shop, set in a beautifully restored malting room,

perfect for light lunches or afternoon tea.

Westerham Brewery: A Pint of Kentish Charm

With tailored group packages, ample parking, and coach-friendly facilities, Annandale Distillery provides an unforgettable insight into Scotland’s whisky-making tradition and an ideal stop on any Scottish itinerary.

Set in the rolling hills of Kent, Westerham Brewery is a must-visit destination for groups seeking a quintessentially British day out. Steeped in tradition, this independent brewery artfully combines historic brewing techniques with modern sustainability practices.

Groups can enjoy a behindthe-scenes tour, exploring the craft of brewing awardwinning ales and lagers.

To book or find out more email: traveltrade@annandaledisti llery.com, or call their group booking specialist on 01461 207817

The on-site Tap Room offers a cosy spot to sample their creations, from the citrusy "Summer Perle" to the robust "Black Eagle Imperial Stout".

Westerham Brewery caters perfectly for groups, with ample parking for coaches and tailored tasting experiences. Its picturesque location near Chartwell makes it an ideal stop on a Kentish adventure, promising a warm welcome and a taste of the Garden of England. Cheers to that! www.westerhambrewery.co.uk

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SIP, TASTE, TOUR AT

Experience the magic of Scotch whisky making at Annandale Distillery, a historic and award-winning destination.

Join one of our hourly tours and discover how we craft our whisky from grain to glass.

You'll also get to taste up to ve different whiskies and learn about the rich avours and aromas of Scotland's national drink.

The Maltings Coffee Shop serves award-winning soups, sandwiches and light bites; seven days a week.

Open from 10am-5pm, you can enjoy home-made breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea or just stop by for coffee and cake. Sit-in or take away options available, with a range of dietary requirements catered for.

Coach bookings and large groups welcome.

Contact Jade at j.fawcett@annandaledistillery.com or call 01461 207817

Annandale Distillery & The Maltings Coffee Shop, Northfield, Annan, Dumfries & Galloway, DG12 5LL AnnandaleDistillery.com

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Coach Touring

Beauty & the Beast Where beauty meets kindness, The Donkey Sanctuary in Devon offers a heartwarming experience—meet friendly donkeys, explore scenic trails, and enjoy delicious local food, all for a great cause.

The Donkey Sanctuary No trip to Devon is complete without visiting The Donkey Sanctuary. The Donkey Sanctuary is an award-winning visitor attraction home to lots of friendly donkeys just waiting to meet you.

Explore everything the sanctuary has to offer, from daily talks and scenic walks to engaging exhibits or challenge yourself by taking part in their maze situated near our Buffalo Barn, home to their gentle

helping millions of donkeys around the world.

Before heading home, don’t forget to browse the Gift Shop with the knowledge that every purchase goes towards helping donkeys. Packed with unique donkey-design items and souvenirs as well as a chance to adopt your own donkey and take a piece of the sanctuary home with you.

The sanctuary is open from

giants, their Poitou donkeys.

Combine a visit to the sanctuary with a delicious meal at the Taste of the West award-winning restaurant; The Kitchen, where fresh, local, seasonal food and drink are served overlooking the donkeys’ paddocks and Jurassic Coast.

Great value menus are available for pre-booked groups, including traditional Devon cream teas, homemade soup and locally-made cakes, with every penny of profit

9am, 365 days a year, with free admission and parking including dedicated coach lane for easy drop-off.

Coach drivers eat free and a guided tour or talk is included with all group bookings. Pre-booking is essential with a minimum one week’s notice.

For more information, visit www.thedonkeysanctuary.o rg.uk/sidmouth or call 01395 578222.

Bring your group to share our history, heritage and habitat Bespoke packages available

Scan the QR code to nd out more or email groups@longleat.co.uk

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HAPPY B R AYS

in nature’s embrace

Pre-booking essential Open 364 days a year from 9am

SIDMOUTH, EX10 0NU thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/sidmouth

A registered charity

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Coach Touring

Spotlight on Kent Rolling countryside, historic castles, and charming seaside towns—this coach trip to Kent explores the Garden of England, where heritage, natural beauty, and delightful discoveries await.

Canterbury Cathedral Offers New Corona Tower Climb Tours for 2025 Canterbury Cathedral have just announced details of an exciting new group tour for 2025. The Corona Chapel was built in the 12th century to contain the relic of the skull of St Thomas Becket and is unusual in its design and round shape. Canterbury Cathedral’s new tour will take you into this chapel which is usually closed to the public, giving you the opportunity to explore hidden tombs and view beautiful stained glass windows in more detail.

You will then be led up 95 steps, with the opportunity to stop en-route to enjoy the view down into the chapel below, before emerging at the top of the tower itself. Offering amazing views across the city in all directions, this tour allows you the unique opportunity to see Canterbury differently and makes an adventurous addition to any itinerary.

The Corona Tower Climb Tour is available to book for groups Mondays-Fridays.

Dazzling Daffodils from 17th to 23rd March.

Wander the grounds as nearly 250,000 daffodils burst into bloom. Midweek tours with renowned

Group size 14 people, larger groups can be split.

For more information contact visits@canterburycathedral.org

horticulturist Johnny Walkers and Head Gardener Neil Miller highlight heritage bulbs and new varieties.

Experience a Spectacular Spring at Hever Castle Step into history and beauty at Hever Castle this spring. Exciting new events, dazzling gardens, and fascinating exhibits await visitors to this iconic double-moated castle in Edenbridge, Kent.

Hever Castle also invites visitors to see the recently refurbished Boleyn Apartment, the only surviving suite of rooms once inhabited by Anne

On Sunday 23th March, Hever Castle & Gardens will host their first-ever Plant Fair in partnership with Plant Fairs Roadshow.

Browse the best spring plants from expert growers at the multi-award-winning gardens.

Don’t miss the return of 14

Boleyn. Largely unchanged since Tudor times, these rooms provide a rare glimpse into Anne’s life at Hever, where she spent more time than previously thought during her courtship with Henry VIII. Adding further intrigue, a rare portrait of Thomas Cromwell is now on display in the Long Gallery. This important work joins the castle’s impressive collection of 16th-century portraiture, bringing the dramatic stories of the Tudor dynasty to life.

Whether you’re passionate about history, gardens, or simply looking for a memorable day out, Hever Castle promises something special for everyone this spring. www.hevercastle.co.uk

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D A F F O D I L S - March

hevercastle.co.uk

GROUP VISITS FOR ALL SEASONS

Where a Love of History Enchants in Glorious Gardens

TULIPS April

ROSES July

AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER

CHRISTMAS Nov/Dec

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Coach Touring

World Heritage Sites Step back in time on a coach trip to awe-inspiring World Heritage Sites, where history, culture, and breathtaking landmarks bring the past vividly to life.

Like the universe, Jodrell Bank reveals more as you delve deeper, with an everexpanding programme of daytime and evening events including lectures, workshops, stargazing nights and free science shows.

Where Wisdom meets Wonder Jodrell Bank is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the Cheshire countryside that’s long been a symbol of scientific exploration. A beacon on the horizon, at its core stands the iconic Lovell Telescope, a Grade I listed engineering marvel and the UK’s largest steerable radio telescope.

Bringing the wonders of

With discounted rates available, two cafes offering delicious, locally sourced meals for hungry astronauts and free coach parking, come to Jodrell Bank for a day out amongst the stars!

the cosmos into view, Jodrell Bank has welcomed visitors from all over the world for over five decades, and today offers a captivating experience for groups of all sizes.

With four exhibitions on offer, immerse yourself in the world of astronomy, physics and engineering, Cold War history and space exploration. Plus, don’t forget to enjoy a film in the state-of-the-art planetarium Space Dome.

Jodrell Bank is a gateway to another world, offering scientific exploration, botanical grounds, and quality time. It's a place where the wonders of deep space converge and gives visitors a glimpse into the

past and future of scientific creativity and endeavour.

Group tickets at jodrellbank.net Explore the Ironbridge Valley of Invention Nestled in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ironbridge Valley of Invention is a historical treasure located just five miles from Telford Town Centre in Shropshire. This captivating destination spans six square miles along the scenic River Severn within the iconic Ironbridge Gorge, renowned as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

The Ironbridge Valley boasts a collection of award-winning museums and attractions that will captivate every member of your group offering a variety of exclusive perks: suit every taste and budget.

For more information or to discuss your visit in detail, contact the group visits team at groups@ironbridge.org.uk or call 01952 435 900.

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AND RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the UK’s Largest Radio Telescope.

Group tickets at jodrellbank.net

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Wish You Were Here Tuscany isn’t a place; it’s a slow exhale. It’s rolling hills that look suspiciously like a Renaissance painting, cypress trees standing to attention like they know they’re being photographed, and towns that cling to hilltops as if they’re afraid of sliding into the past.

The wine flows in casual excess—Chianti, Brunello, the kind that turns lunch into a three-hour affair.

The food? Simplicity masquerading as genius: ribollita, wild boar ragù, pecorino that tastes like the countryside itself. The locals talk with their hands, the sunsets conspire to make you stay, and sooner or later, you realise you probably will.

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Tatiana Popova shutterstock

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Coach Touring

We’re on for 2025 Planning a coach trip in 2025 here are some tailored experiences, scenic routes, and exclusive discounts at top UK attractions, ensuring memorable and hassle-free journeys for all.

Memory-Making Group Travel Inspiration

Speaker Programme Highlights

The British Tourism & Travel Show returns to the NEC Birmingham on 19-20 March, standing as the cornerstone event of the group travel sector’s annual calendar. The show promises to ignite the imagination of attendees with fresh ideas for group travel itineraries.

The Keynote programme will feature a series of engaging sessions to spark ideas and provide practical advice. Topics will include creating accessible and inclusive travel experiences, engaging with the inbound travel trade to maximise opportunities, and planning sustainable tours that benefit local communities.

Attendees will also gain essential legal compliance guidance, helping those involved in supplying group travel understand their obligations.

Featuring over 200 leading attractions, destinations, hotels, and venues, the show highlights the best of the UK and Ireland. Coach operators, tour planners, and group travel organisers will have the chance to discover new experiences and connect with representatives that can bring their plans to life.

strategies. There will also be inspiration for 2025 itineraries, including a look at how to incorporate the 250th anniversary celebrations of Jane Austen into tour plans.

An Event Not to Be Missed The show promises to deliver fresh inspiration for tours, practical strategies for thriving in an evolving tourism landscape, and opportunities to network.

Panel discussions will highlight strategies to attract new customers to coach holidays and design responsible travel experiences that support local economies.

From uncovering new destinations to understanding the latest industry trends, the show serves as a vital platform for innovation and collaboration in group travel.

With contributions from organisations such as the Confederation of Passenger Transport, the Coach Tourism Association, the Association for Group Travel Organisers, Travlaw, and UKInbound, attendees can expect valuable insights to stay ahead.

Further sessions will explore the psychological triggers behind why people choose certain trips, offering insights for crafting marketing 20

When and where The British Tourism & Travel Show 2024 takes place on 19 - 20 March at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information and to register for free, visit www.tourismshow.co.uk

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02 LLEE 25 2 SASA 2203 &ONON 20 WW O NON

GREAT FOR

Groups Why not join the hundreds of groups that travel with us every year and discover all the benefits of Daish’s Holidays for yourself.

FREE

All our hotels are accredited as COVID safe under the Visit Britain good to go scheme

places for groups over 20 people

A choice of 12 fantastic hotels spread across 10 locations

Great value half board breaks including nightly entertainment

Fleet of 26 luxury coaches to provide comfortable travel

Dedicated groups team to support you from booking to arrival

Over 40 years of award winning customer service

Get in touch with us Today!

Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com

facebook.com/daishsholidaysforgroups

@daishs4groups

Isle of Wight

Bournemouth

Eastbourne

Newquay

Weymouth

Blackpool

Llandudno

Torquay

Lake District

Scarborough

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Coach Touring

Exploring the Best of British Breaks with Daish’s Holidays Daish’s Holidays, a familyowned business with decades of experience, has become a trusted name in UK holidays. Renowned for providing a seamless and enjoyable getaway, they specialise in coach and selfdrive holidays, offering a blend of comfort, affordability, and entertainment. With 12 hotels across England and Wales, Daish’s ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re seeking coastal relaxation or countryside charm.

What to Expect Daish’s Holidays packages are designed for ease and enjoyment. Guests can choose from coachinclusive holidays, departing from various UK locations, or opt for a selfdrive package for added flexibility.

Each holiday includes:Halfboard accommodation with hearty breakfasts and delicious evening meals.

Live nightly entertainment, featuring music, comedy, and dancing

The National Memorial Arboretum

Bluebell Railway Planning group travel excursion in 2025, The Bluebell Railway has a wide offering for all groups to experience, offering a delightful opportunity to experience one of Sussex's most charming heritage railways. This is truly a historical hub that brings the golden age of rail travel to life. Group travel is an excellent way to enjoy the nostalgic allure of steam trains, as you journey through the picturesque Sussex countryside. To enhance your experience, why not include a catering option which guests can pick from a classic Ploughman’s lunch or scones with cream and jam, or a traditional Danish pastry all whiles enjoying the Sussex views with a lovely warm beverage. The Bluebell Railway in 2025, also offers a joint ticket that include access to other

local attractions in Sussex.

This not only provides a richer experience but also adds value for participants.

By combining the Bluebell Railway experience with visits to these attractions, the coach touring company can provide a comprehensive and memorable day out that showcases the best of Sussex's heritage and natural beauty. This excursion promises to be a highlight of 2025, blending heritage, Sussex natural beauty, and the joy of travel for all involved. www.bluebellrailway.com /groupvisits

The National Memorial Arboretum located in South Staffordshire is a fantastic day out for groups and there is plenty for group visitors to see and do.

Arrive before 10.50am and join the Daily Act of Remembrance in the Millennium Chapel of Peace and Forgiveness where visitors observe a short service and Two Minute Silence. A complimentary 15-minute Welcome Talk can also be pre-booked, giving groups an overview of the history of the Arboretum and the opportunity to discover future plans.

Join expert guides on a guided walk* who will lead your group around the Arboretum for 45 minutes, sharing the extraordinary stories that the trees and memorials represent, or see the splendour of the Arboretum from the comfort of the covered land train* with an accompanying 50-minute pre-recorded commentary.

The Arboretum is beautiful all year round, with a range of activities you can enjoy whatever the weather. At the heart of the Remembrance Centre is Landscapes of Life, a

Excursions to nearby attractions and landmarks, allowing guests to explore the local area effortlessly. www.daish’s.com 22

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For More Information Visit - www.bluebell-railway.com/group-visits / Or Email - grouptravel@bluebell-railway.com

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village

Explore the scenic setting, experience life in a 1955 blackhouse, learn something of the history and culture of a typical crofting township. See traditional activities including the weaving of the famous Harris Tweed. Our Cafeteria offers soup & sandwiches and delicious home-baking. Village open from 9.30am to 5pm (seasonal) except Sundays.

Free coach parking. Booking essential. Contact Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, 5a Gearrannan, Carloway, Isle of Lewis. HS2 9AL Tel: 01851 643416. E-mail: info@gearrannan.com.

www.gearrannan.com

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Coach Touring

The Arboretum also hosts many groups-only packages annually to coincide with many of its events including those for VE Day 80, Armed Forces Weekend, VJ Day 80 and Remembrance Sunday.

permanent exhibition which introduces the concept of Remembrance and why it is an important human need spanning thousands of years.

Across the year, the Arboretum creates an

A range of pre-ordered food and drink packages are available for groups visitors, as well as a large Restaurant serving a range of items prepared by inhouse chefs using seasonal ingredients sourced from suppliers within a 40-mile radius of the Arboretum.

With so much to explore, the Arboretum has

exciting and thoughtprovoking programme of temporary exhibitions that reflect the Arboretum through themes of Remembrance, natural landscape and hidden histories.

Thu 8 – Sun 11 May 2025 DISCOVER GROUPS SAVINGS AT rhsmalvern.co.uk

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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something to offer groups of all interests. Peaceful woodlands, colourful gardens, riverside walks and fascinating stories are all waiting to be discovered.

For more information or to book, call 01283 245 100 or visit www.thenma.org.uk/groups . *Charges apply.

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A Day Out to Remember The National Memorial Arboretum is the Nation’s year-round place to remember. Home to the iconic Armed Forces Memorial and over 400 memorials commemorating the service and sacrifice given to our country. Set within 150-acres of natural woodland, with colourful gardens and symbolic planting, there’s something for everyone to explore.

Daily Act of Remembrance Participate in an Act of Remembrance and observe a moving two-minute silence in our Millennium Chapel.

Daily from 10.50am*. FREE

Land Train Trips Guided Walks

Daily Talks

Complete with pre-recorded commentary the Arboretum’s Land Train is the perfect way to discover the stories behind many of our fascinating memorials. Ideal for first time visitors, the land train takes 50 minutes and is accessible for manual wheelchair users. £6.50pp†

Book our free welcome talk Living Remembrance for your group on arrival or join one of our daily talks at the Armed Forces Memorial, Shot at Dawn Memorial or Far East Prisoners of War Memorial Building.

FREE

Join one of our expert volunteer guides on a 45-minute walk to discover the incredible stories of heroism, bravery and resilience behind some of our memorials. £4.00pp†

*Open daily except Christmas Day. †Groups of 10 or more, pre-booking required.

National Memorial Arboretum Part of the Royal British Legion

Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire DE13 7AR thenma.org.uk

T: 01283 245 143 E: groups@thenma.org.uk Charity No. 1043992

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Coach Touring

Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre

Manuel to the stage for a hilarious live show.

Bournemouth Pavilion, a stunning Grade II listed Art Deco theatre, has been entertaining audiences since 1929. Hosting West End touring shows, opera, ballet, comedy, concerts, and pantomime, it remains a cultural gem.

Panto season kicks off with Cinderella (6 Dec 2025 – 5 Jan 2026), starring Bournemouth favourite Noel Brodie. Other mustsee acts include Anton Du Beke, Daniel O’Donnell, Madama Butterfly, The James Bond Spectacular, and Tim Peake.

Upcoming highlights include Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (19 March – 2 April 2025) starring Ore Oduba and Liam Fox, and CHICAGO (31 March – 5 April) featuring Janette Manrara as Roxie Hart. In October, Fawlty Towers: The Play (14–18 Oct) brings Basil, Sybil, and

The best seats in the house!

TUE 14-SAT 18 OCT 25’

For tickets and more, visit bournemouthpavilion.co.uk Facebook & Instagram: @BournemouthPavilion

Sat 6 DEC 25’-sun 4 JAN 26’

Contact for group rates. groupsales@bhlive.org.uk

The south coast’s leading venue for touring West End shows, chart acts, tribute shows, gigs, comedy, stage productions and more.

Easter Eggstravaganza 2025 Celebrate spring with a coach trip to venues, where family-friendly fun, seasonal treats, and egg hunts make for a cracking day out.

Hop Into Easter Fun at the British Ironworks Centre!

This Easter, the British Ironworks Centre in Shropshire is inviting coach groups to experience a magical Easter Bunny Grotto like no other! Set within the centre’s spectacular grounds, this enchanting experience is perfect for visitors of all ages.

Groups will be greeted by the Easter Bunny and whisked away into a wonderland filled with colourful springtime decorations, playful activities, and delicious seasonal treats. Each guest will receive a special Easter surprise, making for a delightful day out.

unique artisan shops, and enjoy refreshments at the on-site café. With free coach parking and groupfriendly facilities, it’s an easy and enjoyable stop for Easter excursions.

Beyond the grotto, groups can explore the Ironworks’ famous sculptures, browse

For details, visit: www.britishironwork centre.co.uk

Book early to secure your place and make this Easter one to remember!

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Masson Mills The 1783 water-powered Masson Mill is Sir Richard Arkwright’s showpiece mill, and forms part of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. This Mill was

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A

Masson Mills A Legacy of Textile Innovation

A commercial cotton spinning mill until 1991, now home to a working textile museum, visitor centre, offices, and meeting and event spaces.

Discover history in action.

Group Tours Guided tours at London’s oldest botanic garden

www.massonmills.co.uk info@massonmills.co.uk Tel: 01629 581001

Enquire online: chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk 3PZBM )PTQJUBM 3PBE -POEPO 48 )4

27

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Coach Touring

working as a commercial mill up until 1991, and is now home to an extraordinary and unique living history Textile Museum, Visitor Centre, and event and meeting spaces.

Clock in to your shift at Masson Mills and step back in time to the Industrial Revolution as you enter Sir Richard Arkwright’s cotton spinning mill. Discover the vast collection of historic textile machinery and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of working in a textile mill.

Follow the textiles story from bale to bobbin, and watch as fabric is woven on working 19th century looms, and string is made on doubling machines.

Their Visitor Centre is the perfect place to unwind with fresh Fairtrade barista coffee and locally sourced cakes. Purchase the cloth and string you’ve seen being made on their heritage machinery, and browse shelves bursting with a whole range of historical artefacts, allowing you to take a bit of history home with you. www.massonmills.co.uk

If you’re looking for unique place to visit, look no further than Rhondda Heritage Park Museum in South Wales.

accompanied by digital touch screens which tell their story. The range of topics on offer span from 1809 right up to the closure of Tower Colliery, the last deep mine in South Wales in 2008, making it the most comprehensive and fascinating interactive exhibition on mining life in South Wales.

Journey underground on the Black Gold Experience Underground Guided Tour and listen as the ex-coal miner tour guides take you through the mine and tell tales of mining life from an era when coal from the world-famous Rhondda Valleys powered the world.

Their guides love to answer questions and visitors are fascinated by the first-hand accounts of what life was really like for miners and their families.

Rhondda Heritage Park Museum is also part of the unique Coin, Coal and Cheers package for group travel operators. Three of South Wales’ leading

In addition to the tour, they have a brand-new interactive exhibition which features amazing footage from the archives and over 140 Welsh history artefacts.

The artefacts are 28

attractions have joined forces to create Coin, Coal and Cheers which includes tours at A Welsh Coal Mining Experience, the Royal Mint Experience and Hensol Castle Distillery. For information on this and to book a group tour, please call 01443 682036.

Coach parking is free and visitors can be dropped off directly outside the Visitor Centre.

For further information please visit www.rhonddaheritagepark. com.

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VISIT

EWCH I Lleoliad gwobrwyol sy'n addas i deuluoedd sy'n gartref i:

Taith Dan Ddaear yr Aur Du

The award winning family venue which is home to:

The Black Gold Experience Underground Guided Tour

Ewch ar y daith a gwrando ar atgofion diddorol glöwr.

Take the tour and listen to fascinating tales of mining life.

DRAM!

DRAM!

Mwynhewch y cyffro o reidio mewn dram glo sydd wedi rhedeg gyda'n profiad rhithwir.

Enjoy the thrill of riding a runaway coal dram with our virtual experience.

Caffe Bracchi

Caffe Bracchi

Mae ein caffi ar y safle yn cynnig prydau, teisennod a diodydd ac mae'n lle perffaith i ymlacio.

Our on site café offers meals, cakes, coffees and is perfect for a pit stop!

Holwch ni am y daith gyffrous 'Arian, Glo ac Iechyd Da' (Coin, Coal and Cheers) sydd gyda ni gyda Phrofiad y Bathdy Brenhinol a Distyllfa Castell Hensol.

Ask us about the exciting Coin, Coal and Cheers package that we have with the Royal Mint Experience and Hensol Castle Distillery.

01443 682036 www.parctreftadaethcwmrhondda.com www.rhonddaheritagepark.com

AM DDIM /FREE TREHAFOD

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Coach Touring

Yorkshire’s Finest Experience a coach trip through breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and grand estates, where rich heritage and stunning scenery viewed from the window of a heritage railway create an unforgettable journey.

Bizzie Lizzie’s Renowned for their awardwinning Fish & Chips, Bizzie Lizzie’s is a muchloved Yorkshire favourite.

This family-run business in Skipton offers fresh, highquality food at great value, served in welcoming surroundings.

From its beginnings in 1986 as a takeaway, Bizzie Lizzie’s now boasts two restaurants and takeaways, featuring an extensive menu crafted with locally sourced ingredients and sustainable fish. Diners can enjoy freshly made family recipes for an authentic Yorkshire taste, with options ranging from light lunches to indulgent threecourse meals.

Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and calorie-

Grosmont, this heritage railway winds through the heart of the North York Moors National Park, offering stunning views of rolling heather-clad hills, dense woodlands, and charming villages.

conscious dishes ensure there’s something for everyone. The traditional Swadford Street restaurant offers serene canal views, while the lively High Street Car Park Restaurant brings a modern twist to classic favourites.

Arriving at Pickering Station, visitors step back in time at this beautifully restored 1930s-style terminus before boarding vintage steam or diesel locomotives. As the train chugs along the scenic route, highlights include a stop at Goathland Station, famously known as Hogsmeade in the Harry Potterfilms and Aidensfield in Heartbeat.

Proud winners of numerous awards, Bizzie Lizzie’s continues to deliver exceptional food and service. www.bizzielizzies.co.uk North Yorkshire Moors Railway A coach visit to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) offers a nostalgic journey through some of England’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Running for 18 miles between Pickering and

At Grosmont, railway enthusiasts can explore the engine sheds and restoration workshops, before rejoining the coach for the return journey. A visit to the NYMR is more than just a train ride—it’s a trip through history, heritage, and breathtaking scenery.

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Helmsley Castle, the Helmsley Walled Garden is a hidden oasis in the heart of North Yorkshire.

Originally built in 1759 to supply produce to nearby Duncombe Park, the fiveacre garden has been lovingly restored into a haven of colour, tranquillity, and heritage.

Wander through vibrant borders, fragrant orchards, and the enchanting glasshouses filled with exotic plants. The Kitchen Garden brims with fresh produce, while the Clematis Garden showcases stunning seasonal blooms. Wildlife flourishes here, from butterflies to birds, creating a peaceful retreat.

Helmsley Walled Garden: A Yorkshire Gem

Enjoy homemade treats in The Vine House Café, then browse the plant shop for a floral souvenir. With coach parking available, it’s a perfect group day out for garden lovers.

Tucked beneath the ruins of

helmsleywalledgarden.org.uk

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Coach Parties Welcome

Relax in five tranquil acres Enjoy stunning and colourful floral displays Discover our heritage apple collections Eat at The Vine House Café Plant Centre and Gift Shop

Free meals for Coach Drivers Senior Citizen Discount Group Booking Discount (12 or more) Booking essential Available at Swadford Street & High Street Car Park Restaurants Now Available at Swadford Street Restaurant and Takeaway Gluten Free Fish and Chips cooked in Sunflower Oil Accredited by Coeliac UK

accredited by

High Street Car Park, Skipton 01756 794531 Restaurant and Takeaway 11am - 8pm Swadford Street, Skipton 01756 701131 Mon-Sun Restaurant 11am - 8pm Takeaway 01756 793189 Sun - Thus 11am - 8pm Fri & Sat 11am - 9pm

b i z z i e l i z z i e s . c o . u k

follow us on: D E Q

www.helmsleywalledgarden.org.uk

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Coach Touring

Superior Suffolk Superior Suffolk a coach trip through timeless villages, sweeping coastlines, and historic treasures, where charming market towns and stunning landscapes create an unforgettable journey. lush gardens, making it a must-see destination for garden enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

Helmingham Hall Gardens Helmingham Hall Gardens, set within 400 acres of Suffolk countryside, offers a stunning combination of historical elegance and natural beauty. The magnificent Elizabethan Hall is surrounded by meticulously designed gardens, including the formal walled gardens, tranquil lakeside walks, and

Beyond the gardens, Helmingham offers a warm welcome with its Café, serving delicious homemade treats and refreshments, perfect after a peaceful stroll. The onsite shops offer a selection of local products, plants, and garden accessories, allowing visitors to take a piece of Helmingham home with them. Throughout the year, exciting events like the Illuminated Garden Trail light up the grounds, adding a touch of magic to the festive season.

Helmingham Hall Gardens is a beautiful and inviting destination for all, where nature, history, and hospitality come together.

the vibrant rose garden.

The gardens are a seasonal delight, with an array of flowers in spring and summer, and a stunning autumnal transformation.

Visitors can also explore the Kitchen Garden, which showcases rare plants and vegetables. The Hall, a striking example of Tudor architecture, provides a perfect backdrop to the

www.helmingham.com The National Stud: A Thoroughbred Experience for Groups in Newmarket Set in the heart of Newmarket, the National Stud offers a unique and engaging experience for group visits, combining 32

history, heritage, and the thrill of the thoroughbred racing world. As the only commercial stud farm open to the public in the UK, this renowned establishment provides a fascinating insight into the breeding and training of elite racehorses, making it a must-visit for groups looking for an enriching day out.

A Heritage of Excellence Newmarket is widely regarded as the home of British horseracing, and the National Stud plays a vital role in preserving this legacy. Established in 1915, the stud has been at the forefront of breeding champions, shaping the future of racing with its world-class facilities and expert staff. A guided tour offers groups an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the farm’s daily operations, from meeting majestic stallions to learning about the meticulous care given to broodmares and foals.

Guided Tours and Experiences Tailored specifically for

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groups, the National Stud’s guided tours are led by knowledgeable experts who bring the stories of racing legends to life.

Visitors will see top-class stallions, young foals, and retired racehorses enjoying their well-earned rest. The tour also includes a visit to the impressive stallion unit and paddocks, where groups can witness firsthand the dedication and expertise required in the world of thoroughbred breeding.For a more immersive experience, groups can combine their visit with a trip to the

Bespoke packages can be arranged, including private tours, afternoon tea options, and special talks from industry experts.Easily accessible from Cambridge and London, the National Stud is an ideal day trip destination for coach tours, social clubs, and special interest groups keen to explore the history and prestige of British racing.

nearby National Horse Racing Museum, offering deeper insights into the sport’s history and innovations. Alternatively, a stop at the Rowley Mile or July Course can enhance the visit, allowing groups to experience the excitement of a live race day.

Facilities and Group Benefits The National Stud caters well to group bookings, offering dedicated coach parking, a welcoming onsite café for refreshments, and accessible facilities.

combination of history, stunning surroundings, and equine excellence, the National Stud offers an unforgettable experience, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the world of thoroughbred breeding and the passion that fuels British horse racing. www.discover newmarket.co.uk

Plan Your Visit Groups are encouraged to book in advance to secure a preferred tour slot. With its

Discover the beauty and tranquillity of Helmingham Hall’s breathtaking gardens and park. Explore the classic parterre, vibrant walled kitchen garden, and exquisite herb and knot gardens.

Designed by renowned garden designer Xa Tollemache, the gardens feature immaculate colour combinations and a captivating rose garden. A visit here promises an unforgettable experience amidst spectacular natural beauty.

Wright’s Café is on-site, serving your favourite barista drinks, toasties, salads, sweet treats, and cold drinks too.

Peruse our Stable Shops offering a wide range of local produce, gifts, garden accessories, and more.

Helmingham Hall Gardens, Helmingham, Stowmarket Suffolk, IP14 6EF - Coach Parking Available www.helmingham.com 33

events@helmingham.com

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Coach Touring

South East Showcase Discover the charm of the South East on a coach trip through historic towns, scenic coastlines, and rolling countryside, where heritage and natural beauty await.

A Day Out for Groups at Millets Farm Centre, Oxford Millets Farm Centre in Oxford offers the ultimate group day out, blending fun, food, and fresh air in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside. With a host of activities, shopping, and dining options, it’s the perfect destination for coach parties, families, or special interest groups.

Explore the Farm Shop, packed with local produce, artisan treats, and gifts to take home. Group organisers will love the special discounts available for parties of 10 or more, making it even easier to stock up on seasonal delights.

The Falconry Centre is a must-see, offering group rates on fascinating bird displays and hands-on experiences with majestic eagles and owls. For a more leisurely activity, groups can stroll through the stunning gardens or visit the friendly farm animals. Seasonal events such as pick-yourown fruit or festive markets add extra charm to any visit.

ideal destination for group visits to the New Forest.

Explore the rich heritage of the Montagu family in Palace House, their ancestral home, where you can delve into the fascinating history of the estate. In the Secret Army Exhibition, explore Beaulieu’s wartime past as the finishing school for secret agents, then take a nostalgic ride on our Veteran Bus or see the unique views on the Monorail.

Millets Farm is also ideal for dining. The onsite restaurant serves hearty meals, light bites, and tempting cakes. Group packages include reserved seating and tailored menus, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable meal for all.

To plan your group visit and discover exclusive offers, head to milletsfarmcentre.com Millets Farm Centre guarantees a memorable day for groups of all sizes!

With so much to see and do, the South East is a fantastic destination for groups. Many attractions offer group discounts, guided tours, and on-site catering, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit. Start planning your next coach tour today and experience the best the region has to offer!

In the National Motor Museum, their headline exhibition Motopia? Past future visions takes visitors on a journey through 130 years of future thinking and looks at the visions of the

Beaulieu Beaulieu is an awardwinning day out offering a range of attractions to suit a variety of interests, with guided tours and the groupfriendly Brabazon restaurant making it an 34

motor car from the past, present and future. Explore the In Focus gallery that showcases rarely seen archive photographs from the National Motor Museum’s collections.

A visit includes all that Beaulieu has to offer, including the Little Beaulieu, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars and the stunning grounds and gardens. Visit www.beaulieu.co.uk/groups •Free coach parking close to the visitor entrance, with a drop-off point outside Visitor Reception •Contact groups@beaulieu.co.uk or 01590 614645 to discuss your needs or request copies of the free groups

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Home to over 600 Champion Trees and one of Europe’s largest Winter Gardens.

Registered charity (274737)

Millets FARM CENTRE

ENJOY A DAY OUT, MEAL OR REST BREAK AT MILLETS FARM CENTRE

• 14 National Plant Collections • Centenary Border, one of the longest double mixed borders in the UK • Guided tours

Explore

BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY SURROUNDINGS FARM SHOP GARDEN CENTRE RESTAURANT AND CAFÉ ARTISAN SHOPS

£15

Our Award-winning Garden and Arboretum

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GROUP RATES AVAILABLE

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MEAL ALLOWANCE

For drivers that book in advance by email or phone.

FREE ENTRY. OPEN EVERYDAY FROM 9AM - 5PM. PLENTY OF FREE COACH PARKING. EASILY ACCESSIBLE FROM THE A34 AND A420

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey Hampshire SO51 0QA

Kingston Rd, Frilford Nr Abingdon, OX13 5HB

Open daily except Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Tel: (01865) 391169 restaurantenquiries@milletsfarmcentre.com

hants.gov.uk/hilliergardens

www.milletsfarmcentre.com

out are enjoyed s y a d p u o lous gr

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Millets

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FARM CENTRE

GREAT SAVINGS FOR GROUPS OF 15+

beaulieu.co.uk/groups NEW FOREST, HAMPSHIRE, SO42 7ZN

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Coach Touring

Houses of Historical Interest Explore grand estates and hidden gems on a coach trip to historic houses, where fascinating stories, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens bring the past to life. setting, Cyfarthfa Castle offers a truly enriching experience.

historic houses, Holker remains a lived-in home, giving it a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

www.cyfarhfa.co.uk

Holker Hall and Garden

Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery A visit to Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulent past of Merthyr Tydfil and the industrial heritage that shaped South Wales. Set within 160 acres of parkland, this grand 19thcentury mansion, once home to the Crawshay family—ironmasters of the Cyfarthfa Works—now houses an impressive collection of art, artefacts, and historical treasures.

Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by elegant interiors filled with period furniture, fine porcelain, and decorative arts, offering a taste of aristocratic life during the Industrial Revolution. The museum’s exhibits delve into Merthyr

A coach trip to Holker Hall and Garden in Cumbria offers a delightful blend of history, heritage, and horticultural beauty.

Nestled on the Cartmel Peninsula, this magnificent stately home has been the cherished residence of the Cavendish family for generations. Unlike many

Tydfil’s transformation from a small market town into the heart of Britain’s iron industry, with displays featuring intricate ironwork, vintage clothing, and social history collections.

Art lovers can admire an eclectic mix of paintings, including works by European and Welsh artists, while the Suffragette exhibition and the Welsh costume collection offer a compelling look at the region’s cultural evolution.

After exploring the museum, visitors can stroll through Cyfarthfa Park with its landscaped gardens, lakes, and woodland trails—an ideal setting for a relaxing break before rejoining the coach.

Whether drawn by history, art, or simply a picturesque 36

Stepping inside, visitors are treated to beautifully furnished rooms filled with fine art, period antiques, and intricate wood carvings. The Great Hall, with its grand fireplace and elegant decor, sets the tone for the house’s impressive interiors, while knowledgeable guides bring its rich history to life with engaging stories.

Beyond the house Holker’s

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Book your group visit today www.stowehouse.org

Images © Stowe House Preservation Trust, Pete Adams, Andy Marshall, Megan Taylor

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Coach Touring

award-winning gardens are a highlight. Covering 25 acres, they showcase a stunning mix of formal plantings, wildflower meadows, and ancient woodlands. The spectacular Holker Great Lime Tree over 400 years old, is a must-see. Seasonal blooms ensure the gardens are a visual delight year-round.

Visitors can round off their trip with a visit to the Courtyard Café, which serves delicious locally sourced food, or browse the gift shop for unique Cumbrian crafts. A trip to Holker Hall promises an unforgettable day of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Tel:01539 58328 info@holker.co.uk Discover the Grandeur of Stowe House with Your Group Step into history and

offering discounted rates for parties of 15 or more.

Choose from their expertly guided tours to make the most of your visit:

experience one of Britain’s most significant eighteenth-century country houses. Situated in Buckinghamshire, Stowe House is a breathtaking destination for group visits, offering a unique blend of architectural beauty, fascinating history, and recently restored State Rooms that are not to be missed.

•Standard Tour – Explore the house with a full-length 1.5-hour guided tour, or opt for a shorter 30-minute version. (£7.50 per person) •House Custodian Tour – Ideal for heritage enthusiasts, this exclusive experience is led by their expert custodian, offering in-depth insights into Stowe’s history and restoration. (£50 per staff member + £14 per person)

Why Visit Now? Over the past five years, Stowe House has transformed, with meticulous restorations bringing the State Dining Room and Drawing Room back to their former glory.

Now is the perfect time to witness these spaces firsthand and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the past.

•Bespoke Experiences – Looking for something special? Additional options, including rooftop access and behind-the-scenes tours, are available on request.

Tailored Group Experiences Make a Day of It They warmly welcome groups all year round,

Maximise your visit by

combining Stowe House with the stunning National Trust Stowe Gardens. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit, they offer pre-visit familiarisation tours, accessible entrances, and delightful refreshment packages. Treat your group to tea and biscuits in a State Room, or indulge in a delicious selection of cakes from just £3.50 per person.

“We were in two groups, and both guides were excellent, sharing fascinating history and little anecdotes. We finished with a cuppa and cake in the last of the staterooms—such a memorable way to end the visit!” – Carol on Trip Advisor, Nov 2024 Plan Your Visit Today Now is the time to explore Stowe House with your group. Whether you're a travel organiser, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable day out, they’re here to help you plan the perfect experience.

Book your group visit today – they can't wait to welcome you!

Contact their team on 01280 818006 or houseinfo@stowe.co.uk Visit www.stowehouse.org for more information.

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23 acres of spectacular formal and woodland gardens

nts discou Group s u d to r Guide g n i k par Coach

The Red House, Aldeburgh

Café Gift shop

Explore the museum and garden at the home of Britten and Pears on the Suffolk coast Book your visit at brittenpearsarts.org boxoffice@brittenpearsarts.org

Family home steeped in History with beautiful interiors

01728 687110

015395 58328 Cark-in-Cartmel, Nr Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria LA11 7PL

info@holker.co.uk

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Coach Touring

Llandaff Cathedral: A Historic Gem for Group Visits Tucked away in a leafy enclave of Cardiff, Llandaff Cathedral is a must-visit for group tours seeking history, art, and tranquillity. This striking medieval cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, is an architectural masterpiece, blending Norman, Gothic, and modern elements.

Groups will be captivated by the stunning Christ in Majesty sculpture by Jacob Epstein, the grand Victorian organ, and intricate stained-glass windows.

Guided tours offer rich insights into the cathedral’s history, from wartime damage to its remarkable restoration. Coach groups are well accommodated, with parking nearby and

accessible facilities.

For a peaceful pause, visitors can stroll along the River Taff or enjoy a tea break in Llandaff village.

Whether for historical appreciation or quiet reflection, Llandaff Cathedral offers a welcoming and enriching experience for group travellers.

For group bookings, visit: www.llandaffcathedral.org.uk

deer park, this grand estate offers history, charm, and stunning landscapes.

North East, where legend and beauty meet in perfect harmony.

Once home to the powerful Neville family, the castle’s lavish interiors showcase intricate tapestries, fine art, and antique furnishings, all whispering tales of intrigue and rebellion. Stroll through the Walled Garden, where seasonal blooms create a riot of colour, or enjoy tea and homemade cakes at the charming Yurt Café.

www.raby.co.uk

Groups can enjoy guided tours revealing the castle’s fascinating past, while the gift shop offers unique keepsakes. With ample coach parking and welcoming facilities, Raby Castle is a must-visit for history lovers and garden enthusiasts alike. A perfect day out in the heart of the

Raby Castle: A Timeless Treasure in County Durham Rolling through the County Durham countryside, your coach approaches Raby Castle—an imposing medieval fortress that has stood sentinel for over 600 years. Set within a 200-acre

Syon House Profoundly historic, Syon House is a magnificent treasure trove of art, history, and architecture. Its grand classical interiors showcase an exceptional collection of fine paintings, sculptures, and exquisite furnishings.

Built on the site of a former abbey, the house has deep historical roots, spanning from the medieval and Tudor periods to the present day.

Outside, the ‘Capability’ Brown-designed park and gardens provide a serene, pastoral escape, creating the illusion of deep countryside—despite being less than nine miles from Charing Cross. Syon offers an unforgettable experience for history lovers, art enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquillity near London’s bustling heart. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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Raby Castle, Park and Gardens Set within acres of unexpected elegance, complete with heritage buildings, remodelled gardens, stylish shopping and local food that’s as fresh as it gets sourced or inspired from the Estate.

Imagine a backdrop of unspoilt rural landscapes and one of the finest medieval castles in England. A destination with a difference, where visitors of every generation can discover County Durham’s thrilling past and promising future.

Prepare for a place where heritage is celebrated, where the beauty lies in its simplicity, and where the welcome is always genuine.

www.raby.co.uk admin@raby.co.uk 01833 660202 Raby Castle, Staindrop, Co. Durham, DL2 3AH

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Croatia

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The Dalmatian Detour: A Coach Operator’s Guide to Croatia There are two ways to see Dubrovnik. The first is from the perfect vantage point, as your coach crests the hill and the whole city is laid out beneath you like a Renaissance painting, all terracotta rooftops and sea-sprayed fortifications. The second is from street level, where you will spend an impressive amount of time dodging tourists who move in slow, bewildered herds, clutching selfie sticks like trekking poles.

But, to be fair, Dubrovnik is worth the gentle battle.

The walls alone are a marvel, a kilometre-and-ahalf of ramparts that are, admittedly, a lot steeper than you remember from Game of Thrones. Inside, the Stradun gleams under centuries of wear, and if you time it right, there’s nothing more atmospheric than watching the city exhale at dusk, just as the cruise ships pull away and leave behind a semblance of tranquillity.

A few hours north, Split is less of a museum and more of a living, breathing history lesson. Diocletian’s Palace is, of course, a

UNESCO treasure, but unlike most UNESCO treasures, it’s also home to actual residents who’ve strung their washing between Roman columns and turned former imperial corridors into café-lined thoroughfares.

It’s not the most accommodating city—no one is rolling out the red carpet—but if your groups are willing to embrace the grit along with the grandeur, it rewards them with its own brand of charm. Also, the seafood is outrageously good, particularly when enjoyed along the Riva promenade, where the only thing fresher than your grilled fish is the sea breeze.

Plitvice and the Interior At some point, your itinerary will call for a departure from the coast, and that’s when Plitvice Lakes comes into play.

Plitvice is what happens when nature decides to show off. Sixteen lakes spill into one another via an elaborate system of waterfalls, connected by wooden walkways that 42

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Coach Touring

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appear to float on the water’s surface. It’s stunning, but be warned: while your passengers may start the walk exclaiming in delight at every turn, there will come a moment (probably at the 14th lake) when enthusiasm wavers, the steps feel endless, and someone will say something along the lines of, ‘Lovely, but maybe just one more waterfall and then we head for lunch?’

just that little bit slower, and the most pressing decision is whether to order

art. It’s the antidote to the coastal chaos—a place where time seems to move Joze Maucec shutterstock

North of Plitvice, Varaždin is a beautifully unexpected gem. A former capital, it’s all pastel façades and immaculate streets, a fairytale town where even the cemetery is a work of 44

another coffee.

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Coach Touring

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Coach Touring

The Art of the Croatian Meal One of the fundamental truths of coach touring is that a trip is only as good as its food stops.

Croatia, mercifully, does not disappoint. The coastal regions excel at seafood, and while the temptation is to order something light, be warned: light does not always translate to small. A portion of black risotto will inevitably turn out to be large enough to feed a medium-sized fishing village.

Inland, the cuisine shifts to heartier fare. Peka is the undisputed king of slow-cooked meals—meat or seafood, baked for hours under a domed iron lid, emerging infused with herbs and dripping in its own juices.

Istria, meanwhile, is the land of truffles. Truffle pasta, truffleinfused cheese, truffle ice cream (an acquired taste, if ever there was one). If there’s one piece of advice to give here, it’s to schedule a nap after a truffleheavy meal—no one emerges from that much decadence ready for a walking tour.

Zagreb: The Grand Finale

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No coach tour of Croatia is complete without Zagreb. It is, at first glance, a city that looks 47

like it belongs somewhere further north—more Vienna than the Mediterranean. Grand Austro-Hungarian buildings, a maze of cobbled streets, and café culture that borders on an extreme sport. It is also home to the Museum of Broken Relationships, an institution dedicated to failed romances, and possibly the only museum in the world where visitors will be both laughing and crying within the space of a few minutes.

The Upper Town, with its gas-lit street lamps and sweeping views, is a delight to explore, while the Lower Town buzzes with markets, galleries, and enough bakeries to satisfy even the most dedicated pastry enthusiast. It’s a city that doesn’t clamour for attention but wins visitors over nonetheless, the kind of place that sneaks up on you until, before you know it, you’re sitting in a café on Tkal i eva Street, contemplating whether you could happily spend the rest of your life doing nothing but drinking coffee and watching the world go by.

The Bit Where You Leave, But Not Really At some point, the coach will pull out of Zagreb, the last espressos drained, the last bottles of duty-free rakija carefully stowed away. Croatia is not a country that lets go easily. It clings to you, lingers in the mind long after you’ve

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returned home. It’s the memory of sun-warmed stone under your feet in Split, the salt tang in the air in Dubrovnik, the deepgreen lakes of Plitvice, and the taste of something gloriously garlicky eaten too late at night.

And if you’ve done it right—if your itinerary has balanced the spectacle with the small, the grand sights with the unexpected pleasures—your passengers will already be thinking about their next trip back before they’ve even set foot on home soil.

Rakija Croatia’s national drink is

homemade batch is the best—and after a couple of shots, you’ll probably agree, or at least lose the ability to argue. More than just a drink, rakija is a social contract, a handshake in liquid form.

It’s how Croatians say “welcome,” “goodbye,” and sometimes “you won’t be walking straight for a while.”

rakija, which, if we’re being honest, is less of a drink and more of a rite of passage.

It’s a fiery, fruit-based brandy, usually made from grapes, plums, or whatever was lying around at the time, and it comes in a dizzying variety of regional specialities.

There’s Slivovica (plum), Lozovača (grape), and Travarica (herbal-infused, which sounds healthy but very much isn’t). Every selfrespecting Croatian family has an uncle who insists his

Fact Box Best time to visit: Spring and autumn—fewer crowds, better weather.

Coach-friendly stops: Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice 48

Lakes, Varaždin, Zagreb.

Must-try food: Peka, black risotto, and anything with truffles.

Currency: The Euro (€).

Surprising fact: Croatia has more than 1,000 islands, but fewer than 50 are inhabited. If you ever feel the need to disappear, there are options.

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