the modern voice of coach tourism
Issue 2 2021 £3.50
www.coachtouring-live.com
Awesome Accommodation
Summer Plans ll a m S ps Groluement
Supp
Kent Heritage Railways Yorkshire The Coach Tourism Association
In this issue: Comment, News, Features and much much more...
2630ben/shuttersock
CoachTouring TM
The Winter’s Tale and The Comedy of Errors are supported by RSC Season Supporters Charles Holloway
Contents 4-
News
7-
Coach Tourism Association
8-
Summer Plans
14 - Heritage Railways 16 - Kent
Comment
Back with a Bang!
At the time of writing, we are looking forward to the 21st June when hopefully the country can start to live life to the full again, at the time of going to press some concerns have been raised by the Indian variant and its high infection rate, but the common consensus is that as our vaccination rollout has been so successful although the infection rate may rise the key measurement of the number of people hospitalised will be very low.
18 - Awesome Accommodation 20 - Yorkshire of this, with the coach being the ideal way of getting there. At the end of May leading west countrybased coach company Bakers Dolphin took the road for its first five-day holidays since lockdown began, whilst Leger Shearings CEO Liam Race said bookings at the UK’s largest escorted coach tours company were up 220% “Sales have been incredible, we literally can’t answer the volume of calls we are receiving and we have drafted staff in from other areas of the business to try and attempt to answer them as quickly as possible,” he said. Overseas tour operators, including TUI and Jet2holidays have also reported a rapid uptake in bookings. Keep safe Nigel
It’s been great to hear that groups are looking forward to getting out and about and start enjoying what’s on offer in the UK, a recent item featured on the BBC anticipates that this summer there could be 30 million of us enjoying our homegrown beaches, twice as many as usual and of course they’re going to need transport accommodation, feeding and entertaining with the main focus on staycations and domestic holidays, the coach tourism sector is in a unique position to be able to take advantage
23 - Small groups supplement
Beautiful veiw over the lake at Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland
2630ben/shuttersock Page 3 Pictures shutterstock Ian Woolcock, Valery Egorov, skyearth
With the current Covid 19 pandemic evolving situation please check with attractions to confirm if any restriction will apply
Sales: Brett Kirby Tel: 0121 445 6961 Production: Julie Callaghan Design: Alexina Whittaker Front Cover: Shutterstock.com 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.
3
Trade Talk
Coach Touring
Miles of smiles as Bakers Dolphin holidays return There were miles of smiles as leading West-based coach company Bakers Dolphin took the road for its first five-day holidays since lockdown began.
The sun was shining as passengers boarded to coaches, one bound for St Mawes in Cornwall and the other, one of the company’s luxurious Gold Service coaches, headed north to the Lake District. Continuing Covid-19 restrictions mean the coaches are not able to fill every seat yet, but those who had been able to book a place were delighted, as were the two drivers. Simon Honey, who was taking 26 passengers to Cornwall, said: “I’ve been waiting for this day for a long time and I’m over the moon to be going back out there.”
Fellow driver Paul Mansfield, who was taking 24 passengers north, said: “It’s great to be back doing what we know.” Among the passengers on his Gold coach were John and Katie Trowbridge, from Ashton in Bristol, who have travelled with Bakers Dolphin many times before. Mr Trowbridge said: “We could not wait to go back on holiday again. We’ve been in lockdown the whole time.” He said he had no concerns about getting on board a
coach with lots of other people. “Bakers Dolphin has been excellent and have taken all necessary precautions to make sure we’re safe. We couldn’t wait to get out of our house.”
Amanda Harrington said: “We’ve been waiting a long time for this day to come, and it was fitting that the sun as shining as our first two coaches set off for their holidays.
Fellow travellers Anne and Maurice Brain, from Pill, are also no strangers to Bakers Dolphin. Anne said: “I am looking forward to doing something normal, and I expect Maurice is looking forward to having a break from doing all the cooking.”
“I’m not sure who is happier to be back on the road, our passengers or our drivers!
“It’s been a very challenging time for everyone, and we do, of course, still need to take sensible precautions and ensure we adhere to all the proper health and safety procedures.
Maurice added: “We know the hotel we are going to, which is lovely. There are lots of red squirrels there which come right up to you.”
“But we are delighted to be able to do what we’ve been doing for well over a century, and that’s helping people to have make some memories and have happy holidays.”
For more information about forthcoming Bakers Dolphin holidays and tours, visit www.bakersdolphin.com or call 01934 415 000.
Lynne Brown, from Sea Mills, is a first-time traveller with Bakers Dolphin and had originally booked to go to Cornwall at Christmas with friends, but this was cancelled due to lockdown restrictions. She said: “I’m just looking forward to going away, enjoying the Cornish sea air, and just being away from work.” Patrician Davies, who is travelling to St Mawes, lives on her own and has been living in lockdown conditions for a year. She said: “It’s just lovely being with people again and going to a part of the world that I know well, as I used to live in Falmouth. I’m looking forward to this holiday tremendously.”
Driver Simon Honey preparing to welcome travellers
Sales and Marketing Director
Leger Shearings: ‘We literally can’t answer the volume of calls’ Leger Shearings Group is reporting record year-on-year bookings. CEO Liam Race said bookings at the UK’s largest escorted coach tours company were up 220% “Sales have been incredible, we literally can’t answer the volume of calls we are receiving and we have drafted staff in from other areas
of the business to try and attempt to answer them as quickly as possible,” he said.
Other tour operators, including TUI and Jet2holidays have also reported a swift uptick in bookings
4
YOU’VE GOT WONDERFUL CHILDHOOD MEMORIES SO WHY NOT COME BACK AND MAKE SOME NEW ONES...?
SO MANY REASONS TO RETURN ... Email: visits@coventrycathedral.org.uk Tel: +44 (0)24 7652 1234
1 Hill Top, Coventry CV1 5AB
Trade Talk
Coach Touring
Cornwall’s latest, revamped indoor attraction relentless racketeering. Not for the faint-hearted, brave dads and their families can experience the terrifying tension of the courtroom, sentencing, and life in the cells of condemnation which for many, meant the grisly demise of death by hanging.
Featuring the brand new ‘Dark Walk’ tour, during which, dads will be fully immersed in Cornwall's Dark History through the brand-new £8.5million visitor attraction; creating a completely new level of interest interwoven throughout these impressive and imposing buildings with state-of-the-art theatrical effects that bring some of the grimmest stories vividly to life. Over the centuries, The Jail hosted circa 35,000 prisoners, administered hangings, torturous punishment and confinement, all of which
Everything that took place within its walls has a lasting legacy, meaning that today, the building experiences the highest level of paranormal activity of anywhere in the UK. A host of brand-new specialist tours and late into the night After Dark experiences capture this energetic activity magnificently.
contributes to its intriguing, dark, sinister and violent history. The new attraction combines the latest technology with the authenticity of genuine artefacts, stories of a bygone era, and the only working hanging pit in the country.
Vouchers can be purchased via the Bodmin Jail website or by telephoning 01208 76292, and can be redeemed against any of the attraction’s tours, scary movie night and paranormal experiences. Rated PG with some after dark events over 18s only.
The Dark Walk takes the visitor on a journey through the fascinating history of the Jail and its place in Cornwall’s deep mining and smuggling heritage, whilst exploring the surrounding moorland landscape which lends itself to crimes of passion, gruesome murders, violent robberies, and
www.bodminjail.org
Entry fee: Adults - £15. Child (515) - £12.50. Concessions available Accessibility: All of the attraction is accessible. The Jolly Hangman Tavern has accessible outdoor dining. Dogs: No dogs allowed in the attraction, but welcome in the courtyard and Jolly Hangman. After Dark Experience: £55 per person. Over 18s only. Scary Cinema and Paranormal Tour: £25 per person. Over 18s only. Open all year Covid -19 – We’re Good to Go accredited Pre-booking essential. Timed entry and one-way tours. Social distancing measures in place for queues. Hand-sanitiser throughout the attraction and at touch-points. Enhanced cleaning. See the website for more details.
Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm to remove all testing and selfisolation requirements for UK visitors from 1 July
Guernsey’s government set out its planned changes to travel, which it expects to introduce on or close to 1 July. This is based on the current progress being made with the Islands’ vaccination programme which, like the UK, is progressing quickly. Guernsey expects to have all of its adult population vaccinated with at least one dose, and the most vulnerable with two doses, by this date. The Islands will then move to a ‘traffic light’ system for travel rules which closely aligns to the UK’s own rules. Those who are
within the Common Travel Area, there will be no testing or selfisolation requirement when they arrive in Guernsey. This includes UK visitors who have not had a COVID-19 vaccine.
travelling via the UK to Guernsey from other destinations around the world will need to check if they are coming from Green, Amber, or Red countries to determine what the requirements are for entry into Guernsey. It is important that travellers check the Green, Amber or Red testing and self-isolation requirements on gov.gg/coronavirus as these may, at times differ slightly from the UK.
All visitors will still be asked to
But for visitors whose country of origin is the UK, or elsewhere
6
provide details of their travel history in the 14 days prior to visiting Guernsey through the Islands’ Travel Tracker which can be found by visiting Travelling to and from the Bailiwick | States of Guernsey COVID-19 (gov.gg).
Coach Touring I The Coach Tourism Association
The Coach Tourism Association transported to the next destination. Of course it is not just the UK and Ireland that you can explore by coach, there are some great tours across Europe available and these remain very popular with our customers. At the time of writing, we are awaiting confirmation of when continental tours can restart, but once they do, I am confident we will see strong demand. For the present, with a key focus on staycations and domestic holidays, the coach tourism sector is in a unique position to be able to take advantage of this, with the coach being the ideal way of getting there. CTA plays a unique role by bringing together coach tour operators and wholesalers with key suppliers including hotels, destinations, attractions, ferry operators and other suppliers. The partnerships that CTA facilitates between all sides of the industry help to create even better holidays and excursions for customers. And to support the sector as it recovers from the intense challenges of the past year,
Robert Shaw, CTA chair and Margaret Keenan, first vaccine recipient heading off on a Harry Shaw trip. Coach holidays are back!
well-deserved break.
After a challenging year with successive lockdowns, what a wonderful sight to see coach operators back out on the road doing what they do best; helping people enjoy a great, relaxing holiday so they can create new memories of good times to cherish.
There are so many amazing places and sights to see across the UK and beyond that are simply much better by coach. No queuing at airports, no driving and parking challenges - just sit back, relax and enjoy the view while you are
CTA is running a new campaign to promote the benefits of coach tourism and generate business for all our tour operator members. The new campaign WeLoveCoaches - includes a new consumer-facing website that includes a page for each of our members with direct links to their own websites and social media channels. A WeLoveCoaches marketing campaign is in progress on social media to drive traffic towards the new website. And since our association is built on partnership, we are encouraging all our members to support the campaign and get involved to help us all push positive messages about coach tourism. The evidence so far is that passengers and groups are just as enthusiastic about getting back on the road as operators are to get their coaches moving. We are all looking forward to a busy period for the rest of 2021, and hoping for a bumper year in 2022. Robert Shaw Chair, Coach Tourism Association welovecoaches.com coachtourismassociation.com
And what better way to celebrate the return of coach tours than welcome the world’s first vaccine recipient on the first tour after lockdown restrictions were lifted. As a director of family-owned coach holiday operator Harry Shaw, I was delighted to welcome Margaret Keenan from Coventry and her family aboard our trip to Bournemouth. The vaccine is the route out of the pandemic and Margaret was the first to roll up her sleeve to be vaccinated. We were so thrilled to be able to take Margaret and her family away for a very
7
Coach Touring
Summer Plans After a long dare I say it, isolated winter and spring, it’s time to get out there, we have some great venues and attractions that should definitely be on your to do list. SEATON TRAMWAY IS A FUN DAY OUT IN DEVON 3 miles of unspoilt countryside along the beautiful Axe Valley Seaton Tramway operates narrow gauge heritage trams between Seaton, Colyford and Colyton in East Devon's glorious Axe Valley, travelling alongside the River Axe estuary through two nature reserves and giving an unrivalled view of the abundant wading birdlife. The coastal resort of Seaton is now a gateway town to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whilst the historic town of Colyton is described as "Devon's Most Rebellious Town" for its part in the Monmouth Rebellion of 1685. GROUP BOOKINGS Seaton Tramway is a great day out for all age groups, and even more fun when you're travelling with a like-minded group! They have open toppers and enclosed saloons, giving a comfortable ride. Whatever the weather groups will enjoy a leisurely trip on the Tramway.
The Garden Room at Colyton Station is a great place to enjoy the Tramstop Cafe delights, this separate dining and/or meeting area for groups can seat up to 80 people. The average seating capacity is around 35 per tram, but several trams can operate together for large groups. There is no extra charge for this - you simply pay the agreed rate per person. Although they can take late bookings, they advise that you reserve well in advance, which allows them to provide a tram exclusively for your use and to cater for any special needs you may have. It takes half an hour to travel from end to end. They recommend a break at Colyton or Seaton to explore these interesting towns. Colyton station includes the wellstocked shop, which has a wide range of tram-related souvenirs and unique gifts to suit all budgets. For full details of special events and experiences visit www.tram.co.uk
The Devil’s Porridge Museum is now open daily to the public and the team couldn’t be happier to be welcoming visitors again. “We’ve already been getting great reviews on TripAdvisor” explained Judith Hewitt, Museum Manager, “With visitors enjoying the fascinating history that we share as well as the warm welcome they always receive from our volunteers.”
Devil’s Porridge Museum
During lockdown, people have been busy at ‘The Porridge’ launching a new Research Project to find out as much as possible about the 30,000 workers at HM Factory Gretna in World War One. “They mixed the devil’s porridge which is a nickname for cordite, a propellant, which was used inside every single bullet and
8
shell used in World War One.” continued Judith. “Their work was difficult and dangerous but it helped turn the tide of the War and change women’s lives forever. So many people came from overseas and we’ve begun to connect with their descendants in Australia and New Zealand etc.” The Museum’s café serves homecooked food and delicious cakes at reasonable prices. It has a new look, drawing inspiration from the Arts and Crafts movement and Charles Rennie MacKintosh (both of which were influential on the architects who built the townships of Eastriggs and Gretan to house the workers during War).
A D L
7DĈ 7 !ĈĜĈ D7OAĈLD X ,
¨ ´¥Ĉ¨d±x¬ĈĜĈ ¨ ½x¨Ĉ¥x¨ ¬Ĉd½d do xì ) ±Ĉ± p x±¬Ĉ¾ ± Ĉ¬ xĈ Ĉ d¬±Ĉ x½ ƬĈ ¬±Ĉ ½xtĈd±±¨dp± ¬ì ttĈdĈ±¾ Ĉp ´¨¬xĈ xd Ĉ± ĈÀ ´¨ĈtdÀĈd tĈ t´ xĈd±Ĉ À± ĈH±d± é
77*Ĉ27YĈ 7DĈÔÒÔÓé LD 1ì 7ìO*ó D7OAH
out Group discounts available A great day Fascinating history from both World Wars
Coach parking
Lift
Cafe
Close to M74 and M6 Open daily
6TF info@devilsporridge.org.uk 01461 70021 Eastriggs,DG12
Invites you for a great day out for all the family. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the National Park. From an ideal position - in a narrow gauge steam train! Travel in one of our all-weather observation carriages behind a vintage steam locomotive to Torpantau, high in the Brecon Beacons. Trains run from February to the end of October and at Christmas. Enjoy our licensed tearooms, gift & souvenir shop, steam museum, lakeside cafe, picnic areas, children’s play area, model railway, locomotive workshop and restoration, special events, children’s birthday parties, free car and coach parking.
Brecon Mountain Railway, Pant Station, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 2DD | Tel: 01685 722 988 | www.bmr.wales
Coach Touring
before discovering what other secrets Lynton and Lynmouth has to offer. This family attraction and café is open daily from 11am. No booking required and dogs welcome. www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk Villages and the Cotswolds places where even time meanders
“We’re pleased to have a new exhibition on display as well” said Judith, “focusing on the remarkable life of Dorothée Pullinger. She worked in munitions in the First World War and then ran her own car factory in Dumfries and Galloway. The pioneering Galloway Car, was made by women for women in the 1920s and we are delighted to help share her story with our visitors.”
connects the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth providing stunning coastal views that will be the highlight of any visit.
Voted the 'UK's BEST Cliff Railway' and one of the BEST historic attractions in the UK (Which? Reader Poll 2020).
This working heritage funicular railway is grade II listed, the UK's only fully water powered railway and one of just three examples left in the World! The attraction was recently
The Cliff Top Café is perched at 500ft above the lower station, with amazing views, it offers perhaps the best location for a Cream Tea in the Westcountry and it's just what you need
Open daily with coach parking, group discounts and a fully accessible site (including lift), The Devil’s Porridge Museum is an excellent day out.
Make no mistake. When you think of the quintessential English countryside view, you’re thinking of the Cotswolds. Now, it’s fair to say that other quintessential views exist. The rolling Yorkshire Dales, the hop fields of Kent, the Norfolk Broads, the dairy farms of Hampshire and Sussex, all spring to mind. Turneresque views they all are, and they all do the green and pleasant land a great service. From familiar opening titles, for vets called Heriot, for summer winers called Cleggy, vicars of Dibley, for murderers of Midsomer and cases for Poirot. Yet, for sheer variety, and no little measure of all of these qualities, the Cotswolds have an abundance to satiate everyone with a hankering for view, the place, the feel, and the people that make the English countryside uniquely satisfying. So then to this geographical ribbon that is the Cotswolds. As difficult to define as it is to depart from, the Cotswolds might roughly be described as the sumptuous lands north from Bath, on a corridor that straddles the ancient Roman Foss Way.
info@devilsporridge.org.uk Lynton and Lynmouth The multi-award winning Lynton and Lynmouth funicular Cliff Railway opened in 1890 and is the highest and the steepest totally water powered railway in the world!
www.cotswoldsguidedtours.co.uk Milestones Living History Museum
This historic funicular Cliff Railway is a silver award winner in Devon's Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2020, holds the Green Tourism 'Gold' award for sustainable tourism & several heritage and transport awards. The Cliff Railway
Immerse yourself in the past at Milestones, Hampshire’s museum of living history. Explore the museum’s streets, shops and buildings to discover
10
Coach Touring
group of exiled French monks. Between 1906 and 1937, they lovingly re-built the Abbey Church on the medieval foundations and re-established the monastery. Located mid-way between Plymouth and Exeter, the Abbey Church and gardens are visited by thousands of people every year. Entry is free and there is ample free parking.
– and even a working printing press. Throughout the year ,they run a programme of fun, familyfriendly events and exhibitions – keep an eye on their Events for more details. milestonesmuseum.org.uk An inspirational day out at Buckfast Abbey.
The Abbey Church is a centre of musical excellence and hosts choirs and performers from the local area and wider afield. With its dramatic Lantern Ceiling, various art treasures and stunning Blessed Sacrament Chapel depicting a modern interpretation of Christ in stained glass, the church is a haven of peace.
AN
12
’S
40
L CE T
MILL
E EST. 1797 EU H BRA US TIN G THE M
M
The site gradually fell into ruins, but several hundred years later, it was brought back to life by a
Y
It boasts a fascinating history: Founded by King Canute in 1018, Buckfast Abbey was at the heart of the community until Catholic monasteries were dissolved by King Henry VIII.
R
Your trip to Hampshire past will take you as far back as the age of the Victorians, with cobbled streets, a replica Victorian school room – complete with chalkboard and teacher’s desk
Groups can enjoy the extensive grounds – including The Sensory, Physic and awardwinning Millennium Gardens.
COLDHARBOUR
how people used to live, buy a ration of sweets from their 1940s sweet shop, view their unique collection of vintage vehicles and have a go in the penny arcade!
Situated on the edge of Dartmoor, the Abbey is home to a working community of Benedictine monks and is one of the top tourist attractions in the south west
NIVER
SA
Complementing the religious life of Buckfast Abbey, is the Monastic Way Exhibition. This inter-active attraction gives a fascinating insight into the lives of the monks at Buckfast along with a history of religious communities throughout Europe. The Grange Restaurant. Delicious cream teas, homemade lunches, cakes and pastries are available, with the emphasis on locally produced ingredients. www.buckfast.org.uk
BOOK YOUR GROUP
NOW!
A fascinating living history museum with Victorian streets, shops from the past, vintage vehicles, working pub, costumed characters and more! • Discounts for pre-booked groups of 15+ • Special packages available • Welcoming café with a wide selection of refreshments
NEW FOR 2021 plus… TAKE A STROLL ON T
MR SIMPSON’S UNRIVALLED COLLECTION OF EVERYONE’S FAVOURITE TOY
HE
EXPERIENCE THE UNIQUE MILESTONES PIER COMPLETE WITH TRADITIONAL PENNY ARCADE!
FIND OUT HOW TO BOOK YOUR GROUP AT
milestonesmuseum.org.uk Hampshire Cultural Trust is a registered charity (no. 1158583) and company (no. 08986225) in England and Wales
Coach Touring
Heritage Railway’s Go on, admit it, there can’t be many of us who do not long for a slower more gentle pace of life. Well step back into yesteryear and visit one of our wonderful heritage railways. Photograph :Roy Small
famous Ffestiniog Railway with its legendary Double Fairlie locomotives runs between Porthmadog and Blaenau Ffestiniog, a journey lasting just over an hour. Its sister railway, The Welsh Highland, runs between the Royal town of Caernarfon, beside the castle, to the harbour at Porthmadog, a length of 2½ hours, where they share a joint station.
THE STEAM TRAIN RIDE THAT OFFERS A LOT MORE!
Buckfastleigh is the main station where there is a riverside walk and picnic area, gardens, museum, engineering workshop and a well stocked shop and refreshment rooms where a great variety of tasty food is served. There is plenty of parking for coaches here. On selected days, a miniature railway runs here too. If you are looking for a really varied day out, there is the option of superb value ‘3 Great
Attractions, 1 Amazing Day’ tickets. These offer a steam train trip plus entry to the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, adjacent to the railway’s station at Totnes Riverside, and/or Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies, next to the station at Buckfastleigh. It’s a fantastic day out with something that will appeal to all ages and interests.
Pre-booking is strongly advised for groups as these are very popular attractions. For more information, visit www.festrail.co.uk or telephone the group travel office on 01766 516024. Swanage Railway Located in the Isle of Purbeck, the rebuilt Swanage Railway is the perfect place to enjoy a great family day out on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.
Photograpg Andrew PM Wright
The multi-award winning South Devon Railway is a delightful 14-mile return steam train journey along the valley of the River Dart, through some of Devon’s most beautiful and hidden countryside. It runs from Buckfastleigh, just off the A38, midway between Exeter and Plymouth, to Totnes where you can take a 20 or so minute walk over the bridge into the town, or stay on the train and return to Buckfastleigh.
Most groups do a one way trip as part of their day out and the coach collects them at the other end. Refreshments are served to your seat on both lines and pre-booked group catering is available. At Porthmadog station, there is coach parking, shop, toilets and Spooner’s café/bar which
serves everything from a coffee to a full cooked meal. Blaenau Ffestiniog and Caernarfon both offer good places for a stop, with pleasant cafes and shops in both towns.
More details are at www.southdevonrailway.co.uk, or contact the railway to find out about group rates and booking at trains@southdevonrailway.org or call 01364 644370. Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. Experience the best of Steam, Scenery and Snowdonia by taking a trip on the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. Two of the famous Great Little Trains of Wales, these lines take you on a journey of nostalgia, coast to coast and into the foothills of Snowdonia. The
14
The heritage railway attraction operates full-size steam and diesel passenger trains along the five and a half miles of line from Norden to Corfe Castle and down to the Victoria seaside town of Swanage. The line has stations at Corfe Castle and Harman’s Cross as well as a halt at Herston, on the outskirts of Swanage. There are refreshment buffets at Norden and Swanage stations with picnic tables at most of the stations so you can soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a picnic. Their station shop at Swanage is well stocked with souvenirs, railway books and DVDs, a large selection of items for model railways as well as clothing, railway prints and gifts for all ages. No group visit to Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole or Dorset will be complete without a journey on the Swanage Railway. They offer organised groups single or return journeys, so you can combine the visit to their railway
with time at Corfe Castle, Swanage and its beautiful beaches or a boat trip from Swanage pier.
Welcome back! South Devon railway
Looking for something special for your group, why not arrange a meal on their premium dining train, The Wessex Belle, or perhaps afternoon tea in the historic observation car. For a lighter meal option, they offer a range of picnic boxes and drinks that your guests can eat at their table during the journey. Whatever the composition of your group, the Swanage Railway will provide interest and enjoyment for all.
far more than a steam train ride
Full details of their services, timetables, group fares and latest information can be found on their website at www.swanagerailway.co.uk.
A first class destination and a warm welcome for coaches and groups. Easy access from the A38 and free coach parking at Buckfastleigh, TQ11 0DZ
Ask us about... ...and our other joint ticket options.
Buckfastleigh • Staverton • Totnes www.southdevonrailway.co.uk 01364 644370
Steam and Lights
Make wonderful and magical memories in the run-up to Christmas – an evocative, dramatic and colourful Steam and Lights train journey through the Isle of Purbeck countryside. swanagerailway.co.uk
Coach Touring
Kent Kent offers mysterious marshlands and breathtaking countryside to the dramatic white cliffs of Dover; medieval towns, historic castles and towering cathedrals Kent and East Sussex Railway The K&ESR, which runs through ten miles of beautiful countryside from Tenterden to Bodiam, after they reopen on 22 May, there will be three socially distanced seating steam hauled departures every open day, leaving Tenterden at 10.40, 13.15 and 15.35, for the two-hour round trip to Bodiam. If the restrictions continue to be eased, additional services will be introduced and passengers will once again be able to break their journey to enjoy visitor attractions in East Sussex. Tickets are being sold online for family groups and exclusive private compartments. Canterbury Cathedral Welcoming Groups Back with New Experiences Canterbury Cathedral is the jewel in Kent’s crown- UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion, and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. With a tradition of visitor welcome stretching back to medieval pilgrims, the Cathedral is again opening its doors after lockdown to greet today’s travellers. Inside this architectural marvel a wealth of treasures from stunning stained glass to beautiful stonework is waiting to be discovered, while outside, tranquil Precinct gardens or atmospheric Cloisters offer peaceful places to pause and reflect during any visit. The Cathedral’s stories have helped shape England, from Thomas Becket’s martyrdom through to surviving
cloisters, allowing for a relaxed experience. Whatever you choose to see or do, Canterbury Cathedral is sure to be a highlight of your itinerary whenever you visit.
the Blitz during WW2. With King Henry IV and the Black Prince also entombed here, there is so much to discover, whether you are visiting for the first time or rediscovering this stunning landmark, and your group can share this 1,400-year history. Private guided tours and ‘behind the scenes’ experiences are available to enhance group visits, while new facilities from an exciting Visitor Centre to an enlarged shop ensure there is always more to explore. The Cathedral are also offering groups a unique, bookable Group Welcome on entry, featuring a short introductory talk about the Cathedral’s history and highlighting points of interest to look out for, providing a lowcost way of offering an added-extra for your group. A guided Precincts Tour is also new for groups this year, featuring a tour of the outdoor spaces and quiet corners of the
To find out more contact the Cathedral’s Visits team. visitsenquiries@canterburycathedral.org
16
Online prices are £36 for a table for two £49 for a table for up to 4 travelling together and a private compartment for 8 is £85. Bookings can be made via the railway’s website kesr.org.uk
whitecliffscountry DOVER • DEAL • SANDWICH
Historic Dover
Maritime Deal
Medieval Sandwich KENT
KENT
©
visit • discover • explore VISIT THE KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY ENJOY ON BOARD DINING WHILST STEAMING THROUGH THE GLORIOUS WEALD
FREE COACH PARKING • GREAT GROUP RATES GIFT SHOP • JUST OFF THE A28 ON THE WAY TO HASTINGS
White Cliffs Country is a unique place where coast meets country, beauty meets history, tranquil meets active, and England meets Europe. With gloriouscountryside, fabulous coastline and great access to London and the Continent, Dover, Deal and Sandwich offer an abundance of historic sites, attractions and museums all geared up to welcome groups. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION T: 01304 201066 E: vic@dover.gov.uk W: www.whitecliffscountry.org.uk visitwhitecliffscountry
@visitdover
white
VISIT
@visitdover
Rediscover England’s First Cathedral
Discover 1,400 years of history at a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the city
New visitor experiences and tours Explore the Cathedral’s amazing spaces
www.canterbury-cathedral.org To book a group: visitsenquiries@canterbury-cathedral.org For more information: melodie.robson@canterbury-cathedral.org
DOVER
DEAL
SANDWICH
Coach Touring
Awesome Accommodation Whatever filters you and yours do or do not wish to include, you’re sure to get a perfect night’s sleep here. the driver (min numbers apply). For groups passing through the lakes the hotel offers lunches and high teas to sustain travellers’ appetites. For more information, call Sales Manager on 017687 72071 email sales.skiddawhotel@lakedistrict hotels.net or go to www.lakedistricthotels.net/skidd awhotel
Daish’s UK Coach Holidays Where Would You Like to Go? If you’ve ever wanted to take a coach holiday in the UK, now’s the time. Daish’s Holidays makes it easy to get away from home with all-inclusive trips to many popular holiday destinations, including Kendal, Blackpool, Bournemouth, Weymouth, Eastbourne, Llandudno, Newquay, Torquay, Eastbourne and the Isle of Wight. For over 40 years, the UK has relied on them to provide the best domestic holidays with clean, comfortable hotel accommodations and first-rate coach transportation. Whether you’re going on a family holiday or a couples-only getaway, you won’t be disappointed with their friendly customer service and exceptional travel value. Why not arrange a group holiday and enjoy a well organised break with your extended family, club or society? They can tailor-make a coach holiday to any of their hotels on whichever dates best suit you.
and flat screen TVs.
Groups travelling to Daish’s hotels come in many shapes and sizes from smaller groups of 15 joining an existing Daish’s tour in one of their usual pick-up areas to whole hotel bookings. Groups can travel to Daish’s hotels using their fleet of coaches or using their own coach. They have even welcomed Vintage Car clubs using their own Vintage cars and motorcycles.
Free coach parking nr Booths supermarket and free place for
Relax IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
The newly refurbished Skiddaw Hotel is located in the centre of Keswick, the ideal base to explore the Lake District and all it has to offer. This charming hotel is perfect for a relaxing short break, meal stops and much more!
For full details and special offers visit www.daishs.com The Skiddaw Hotel The Skiddaw Hotel is renowned for its warm hospitality and friendly staff. Centrally located in the market town of Keswick in the heart of the Lake District,
Lunches & light snacks • Evening meals 43 en-suite bedrooms • Convenient for the M6 FREE coach parking nearby, plus FREE meal or stay for your driver (T&C’s apply)
it is ideally situated and provides easy access to all of the beautiful lakes. The bustling market takes place on Thursday and Saturday right outside the hotel’s front door and offers a range of exciting stalls for visitors to browse at their leisure. Newly refurbished the 43 en suite bedrooms all include tea and coffee making facilities
To book call 017687 72071 or email sales.skiddawhotel@lakedistricthotels.net
Main Street, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5BN www.lakedistricthotels.net/skiddawhotel
18
W NO LE 22 SA 20 ON
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
Coach Touring
Yorkshire he stunning natural beauty of the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales is matched by the charming historical cities and gorgeous villages, plus theres lots of things to do and places to visit. tweaking recipes, adding to the menu and improving the service to provide an unbeatable dining experience time after time. bizzielizzies.co.uk The Scarborough North Bay Railway The Scarborough North Bay Railway is Britain’s biggest miniature railway and has been delighting young and old for many years; in May 2021 they will be celebrating their 90th Anniversary. Bizzie Lizzie’s Famous for their award winning Fish & Chips, Bizzie Lizzie’s is one of Yorkshire’s best loved restaurants. The family run Skipton business serves up fresh, high quality food at affordable prices giving food lovers a fantastic dining experience in picturesque surroundings. Starting in 1986 as a takeaway fish & chip shop, Bizzie Lizzie’s has grown to include two fabulous restaurants and takeaways, offering an extensive mouth-watering menu and friendly efficient service. Using the finest locally sourced ingredients and sustainable fish, you’ll find freshly made family recipes for an authentic Yorkshire taste. From light lunches to scrumptious afternoon teas and three course evening meals, it’s the perfect place to meet and treat.
Not only does the 2 mile return journey offer a relaxing way to enjoy beautiful views along the picturesque North Bay coastline, but the line also doubles as a transport link connecting Peasholm Park with Scalby Mills. In addition to the railway,they have the thrilling Sky Trail high ropes adventure course, historic Water Chute, Water Walkers, Pedalos, the Boatman’s Kiosk for drinks and ice-creams, Scampi Shack and new for 2021 drive your own electric boats!
Open every day, all year round, the traditional Swadford Street restaurant boast panoramic views over one of the county’s most beautiful canals. Watch the colourful narrow boats chug by as you tuck into award winning fish & chips. In contrast, the High Street Car Park Restaurant has a more modern lively feel and a menu with indulgent afternoon teas and main meals with a modern twist. Winners of many awards, including Fish & Chip Shop of the year, the restaurants’ success is down to the talented team who are constantly
Their well-stocked gift shop offers a fantastic selection of
Gluten free, dairy free and vegan options mean that everyone can enjoy the Bizzie Lizzie’s experience. And for those watching their weight, lighter calorie counted options are highlighted on the menu.
20
souvenirs for friends and family, together with offering takeaway hot and cold drinks. Both stations are wheelchairfriendly with step-free access whilst their trains are also fully accessible. Dogs on a lead are welcome on the trains for a small fee. The railway opens during most school breaks and opens daily from Easter to 31st October, with additional events being held throughout the year, including their ever popular Hallowscream Express and Santa Specials. Keep up-to-date with all their news by checking the website www.snbr.org.uk for pictures and for further information on up-coming events. You can also download their brochure, and see the current prices and train timetable. We are not taking forwardbookings this year, so payment will be taken on the day of your visit. We ask that you pay by credit or debit card only. They look forward to welcoming you to experience what they have on offer and hope you have a fantastic day!
Love Fish and Chips…
Love Bizzie Lizzie’s
Coach Parties Welcome
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
High Street Restaurant now with an extra 32 covers
ramic coach tours ng tours - town and country Visits - including York Minster ur guiding requirements... .yorkshiresbestguides.co.uk
Now Available at Swadford Street Restaurant and Takeaway Gluten Free Fish and Chips cooked in Sun ower Oil Accredited by Coeliac UK
accredited by
High Street Car Park, Skipton 01756 794531 Mon-Sun Restaurant and Takeaway 12pm - 8pm
Swadford Street, Skipton 01756 701131 Mon-Sun Restaurant 12pm - 8pm Takeaway 12pm - 9pm
b i z z i e l i z z i e s . c o . u k
DISCOVER RYEDALE, NORTH YORKSHIRE Great Group Days Out:
Malton, Kirkbymoorside, Helmsley, Pickering Independent shops, galleries, antique centres and delicious food and drink.
Charming market towns, beautiful scenery, historic sites, culinery delights and award-winning attractions
A different adventure every day, for everyone
• • • • • • • •
Castle Howard Eden Camp Flamingo Land Helmsley Walled Garden National Centre for Birds of Prey National Trust Sites North Yorkshire Moors Railway Scampston Hall
For a free group travel pack visit: www.visitryedale.co.uk tourism@ryedale.gov.uk
Yorkshire’s Best Guides
• Panoramic coach tours • Walking tours - town and country • Site Visits - including York Minster For all your guiding requirements... Visit www.yorkshiresbestguides.co.uk
Small Groups Welcome
R
AN
M
E EST. 1797 EU H BRA S U TIN G THE M
Y
’S
COLDHARBOUR
L CE T
40
MILL NIVE
A S R
Group Tours Seasonal Events
Coach Touring
Small Groups Welcome Now more than ever, this summer as we start to gradually get back to normal, domestic travel and tourism is set to soar. In this supplement we are featuring some fantastic venues and attractions that just can’t wait to welcome your coaches back.
So once again, if you're after a day to remember for your groups you will find some great venues and attractions just waiting to make some great memories for your customers.
They offer generous discounts to Coach operaters with many attractions and venues offering a great experience by going the extra mile to ensure that your coach party will have an unforgettable experience.
Indeed many now offer bespoke packages tailored to suit each parties individual tastes and interests.
Pictures Shutterstock/FenlioQ, Shutterstock/Lukasz Pajor Shutterstock/Claudio Divizia front cover Nicola Pulham
ENJOYSTALBANS.COM
Exclusive group rates and benefits available Celebrating more than 100 years, Exbury Gardens has a spectacular collection of summer gardens located across 200 acres. These impressive gardens border the Beaulieu River and boast a steam railway, outdoor cafe, indoor restaurant and children’s play area.
02380 891203 | info@exbury.co.uk | www.exbury.co.uk
Coach Touring
Visit coach-friendly Burnham Burnham-on-Sea is a wonderful Somerset seaside town that’s ideal for coach passengers, offering superb cafes and shops, level walks, and refreshing sea air! A free, large coach parking area is provided in Burnhamon-Sea, just metres away from the seafront and town centre where there are eating places, WCs, shops and pubs. Burnham-on-Sea is located just 5 minutes from the M5 motorway junction 22 and is a perfect stopping place for coaches on the way to other locations in the south west and south Wales.
for dates.
Tourism Awards and the town was also also a finalist in 2018, 2019 and 2020. Coach visitors are always given a warm welcome thanks to an ongoing project by Burnham Chamber Of Trade, supported by local councils and businesses.
Find out more about coach visits to Burnham-on-Sea at www.visitburnham.co.uk or follow us on Twitter via @visit_burnham Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome
Many popular free events are held in Burnham for visitors, including a spectacular seafront fireworks display each November, food festivals in May and October plus a beach kite festival, fetes and more - see Burnham-On-Sea.com
Explore the early days of British military aviation through their award-winning exhibitions and great events. Ranging from air displays to Great War Living History, modern technology to the proms, they hope to
Burnham is well known for its iconic nine-legged wooden lighthouse, which was built in 1832 and is a Grade II Heritage listed structure. It is on a list of the world’s top 10 most beautiful lighthouses. Burnham won the title of ‘coach-friendly destination of the year’ in 2016 at the Coach
26
provide something to make your visit special for you. There’s plenty to enjoy at this unique venue. You can explore their fascinating site, investigate their Museum exhibitions, full of great interactives and objects, take in the atmosphere in the hangars of late production and replica FWW planes - then why not pop into their Airmen’s Mess for a cup of tea and snack? Don't forget to grab a memento from their wide ranges in their shop on the way out!
! r a e Y l l A n e Op
Original Edwaridan seaside theatre - open all year with plays, musicals, pantomimes and our popular Summer Showtime!
Guernsey’s Historic Home Historic House Tours covering 800 years of History with the same Family, part built at the bequest of the 1st Governor of New York. Lived in by a Seigneur who had 28 children, and whose uncle circumnavigated the globe with Cmdr Anson 40 years before Captain Cook and captured the worlds richest treasure ship and whose cousin was awarded the 1st Albert Medal (now the George Cross) and started the Army and Navy stores.
* Fully Air Conditioned *
Also the luxuriant Wild Sub Tropical Garden and Sculpture Park crammed with rare and unusual plants and trees and sculpture from around the world.
* Cabaret Style Seating * * Table Drinks Service *
Attractive Group Rates. Contact Peter on 01481 235571 or peter@artparks.co.uk , www.artparks.co.uk , Sausmarez Manor , Guernsey, GY4 6SG.
BOX OFFICE: (01493) 662832
@gorlestonpav
BOOK ONLINE: pavtheatre.com SAT NAV: NR31 6PP
Visit Burnham-on-Sea Wide range of shops Great eating places Seaside walks and fresh air … Lots of dedicated coach parking Heritage and history
BURNHAM - ON - SEA CHAMBER OF TRADE
Coach Touring
Learn about the incredible work being done, painstakingly conserving the buildings on site Whether you are interested in history or aviation, education or the environment or looking for a fun day out for the family or special interest group,they would like to welcome you to Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome to be part of history in the making. At Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, they welcome group visits, coach trips, school trips, educational visits and special interest groups. As a COVID Secure site, they are even more keen to welcome you in a careful and safe way. Your visit will be tailored to suit your needs, with an average visit lasting up to half a day. Please contact them to enable them to build some amazing memories for you and your group - including their exhibitions, a chance to eat, visit the hangars and explore this impressive and atmospheric location. Open from 10am – 5pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It is possible to arrange visits on other days by special appointment although they cannot guarantee this. Please contact us to arrange your visit. www.stowmaries.org.uk The Pavilion Theatre The Pavilion Theatre in Gorleston near Great Yarmouth in Norfolk is an original Edwardian seaside theatre and is open all year round staging plays, musicals, pantomimes and the ever popular summer season production of 'Summer Showtime'. Summer Showtime is a full variety show starring local comedian Nigel 'Boy' Syer and hosted by the fabulous magician and singer Olly Day. It runs for 26 weeks of the year and features a full local cast of singers, dancers and even fire breathing aerialists!
The theatre has a unique seating arrangement at cabaret style candlelit tables and free waiter and waitress service is available at your tables throughout the show, performance permitting. There is plenty of free parking (including coach bays) directly outside the theatre and it is fully accessible on one level and wheelchair friendly. Book online today at pavtheatre.com or by calling the box office on (01493) 662832. The Maidenhead Heritage Centre and ATA Museum The Maidenhead Heritage Centre and ATA exhibition and archive explores the history of Maidenhead and its surroundings, including theAir Transport Auxiliary (ATA), which was headquartered at White Walthamairfield during World War II.
Experience is simply ‘fantastic’, ‘brilliant’ and‘EPIC’ – these are genuine visitor comments.
Friday September 3rd and Tuesday September 7th at 10am
The simulator is suitable for‘pilots’ aged 8 or over – the oldest person to fly it (so far!) was 97!
Enjoy a relaxing day on the river, you cruise up Cliveden Reach and on to Marlow and Temple Lock, before turning downriver as far asBray, before returning to Maidenhead at approx. 3pm. En route Richard Poad will share hisknowledge and love of the river with a live commentary.
Maidenhead and the Olympic and Paralympic Games July 14th – September 11th From Lord Desborough organising the 1908 London games almostsingle handed to Katharine Granger winning gold medals at successive games,Maidenhead has many connections with the Olympics and Paralympics. Opening shortly before the Tokyo Olympics aredue to start, this exhibition includes photographs, uniforms and even an Olympic torch or two.
They have an exciting list of events and experiences available,her are just a few: Spitfire Simulator Experience Experience the thrill of piloting a Spitfire in ourauthentic, awesome simulator! What can you expect? To fly over London – or Paris, New York, San Francisco orthe Pyramids! Their Spitfire Simulator Experience has been described as ‘thebest fun in town’ and a ‘great activity for all the family’.
RIVER THAMES CRUISES
Their friendly volunteers will provide instruction so that everyone gets the most out of their ‘flight’ in Covid-secure conditions. As you open the throttle and listen to the roar of the iconic Merlin engine, you will travel back in time and become one of those famous Spitfire pilots of World WarII, flying round the Isle of Wight, over Windsor Castle or over 21st century London.With the replica flight controls and wide screen pilot view,their Spitfire Simulator
28
The fully licensed on board bar serves hotdrinks as well as alcohol. maidenheadheritage.org.uk Hill Close Gardens Hill Close Gardens along with many other visitor attractions have been dealing with the pandemic in the best way they can. It has given them time to reflect and look forward to the
Stow Maries
Great War Aerodrome
Is Is the th t pe p per perf perfe perfec perfect ve vvenue ven ffor venu fo a G Gr Gro Grou Group vvisit. vi A vis visi visit As a an e ed edu educ educa educat educati educatio education educationa educational excursion e ex excu excur excursi excursio exc excurs o or jjust ju a ffun jus fu d day da o out ou – w we kknow kn kno yyou’ll yo h you you’ you’l ha have hav a g great gre grea gr time! tit tim time A Aw Award Awa w Awar winning winn winni winnin wi win e ex exhibitions exh exhi exhib exhibi exhibit exhibiti exhibitio exhibition tte tell tel a sstory sto stor st tth that tha w will wi ssurprise, wil su sur surp surpr surpri surpris surprise uplift u up upl upli uplif yo yyou a and an iinterest in inte intere int inter interes yyou. yo TThe you Th h historical hi histor historica his hist histo histori historic a aircraft aircra aircraf ai air airc aircr a and an b building buildin buildings build buildi buil bui bu n ne nes nest nestl nestle nestled in i tthe th b beau be bea beaut beauti beautif beautifu beautiful E Es Essex Ess c Esse co cou coun count country countrys countrysi countryside countr countrysid a al all a ad add tto a an unmistakeabl u un unm unmi unmis unmist unmista unmistak unmistake unmistakea unmistakeab unmistakeable a atmosp atmosph at atmos atmosphe atmosphere. atm atmo atmospher atmosphere YYo You w will wi e wil en enjoy enj a enjo an u unmistakable un unm unmis unmistaka unmistakabl unmi unmist unmista unmistak unmistakab experience expe exper experi experie e ex exp experien experienc in i o our ou A Airmen’s Airmen Airmen’ Airm Airme Ai Air M Me – w Mes Mess wh whe wher where you uck iinto noa yo will w ttuck wi wil tu tuc in int n ood p epa ed ffor o yyou g ea selection gr gre grea great s ec on o se sel sele selec select selecti selectio of h ho a hot an c and co d ffood, col cold fo foo food pr pre prep prepa prepar prepare prepared fo yo iin end y tteam. eam D o ge o ad a adv adva advan advanc a advance advance, an and se sserved ser ved b serv serve by o ou ffrfrie our fri frien friend friendl friendly te tea team Do fforget Don Don’ Don’t forg forge fo for ou our eady a ng tto ow o you tto waiting welcome wel welc welco welcom we come yyo waiti waitin wonderful We’re and wa wai wait an w read re rea We e rready We’ We’r sho shop W s sh wonde wonder u shop! wonderf wonderfu wo won wond w h s ffa an as c ssite. Con a ac Co C See yyou so soo soon yo ssoon! sit site fantasti fantastic si e SSe fanta fantas fantast fan fant th thi tthis uk es o g u book ngs@s owma e ow owm o ngs@ ng ngs n boo b bo Stow St Sto M Maries Ma Mar Mari Marie G Gr Great Gre W Grea War Wa A Aerodrome Ae Aer Aero Aerod Aerodr Aerodro Aerodrom Hackmans H Ha Hac Hack Hackm Hackma Hackman LLn Ln, P Purleigh Pu Pur Purl Purlei Purleig Purle Chelmsford, Chelmsford C Ch Che Chel Chelm Chelms Chelmsf Chelmsfo Chelmsfor Es E Essex Ess C Esse CM3 CM 6 6RN 6R Contact Conta Contac C Co Con Cont bookings@s b bo boo book booki bookin booking bookings bookings@ bookings@st bookings@sto bookings@stow bookings@stowm bookings@stowma bookings@stowmar bookings@stowmari bookings@stowmarie bookings@stowmaries bookings@stowmaries. bookings@stowmaries.o bookings@stowmaries.or bookings@stowmaries.org bookings@stowmaries.org. bookings@stowmaries.org.u bookings@stowmaries.org.uk
Maidenhead Heritage Centre and ATA Museum Our friendly little museum is perfect for families and small groups From stone-age Stanley knives and the Romans to our world-class Air Transport Auxiliary collection and Spitfire Simulator Experience, you will discover the history and heritage of the whole area around Maidenhead, just west of Royal Windsor. Individuals, families and small groups of up to 20 guests are welcome. Larger groups and bespoke private visits by special arrangement.
https://maidenheadheritage.org.uk
Coach Touring
Tearoom in the Islands it is a must see place to visit and there is something for all the family. www.artparks.co.uk The Severn Valley Railway The Severn Valley Railway is a full-size standard-gauge railway line, running regular, mainly steam-hauled, passenger trains between Kidderminster in Worcestershire and Bridgnorth in Shropshire, a distance of approximately sixteen miles.
future with confidence. They have recently completed a new visitor experience, named TVE – Transforming the Visitor Experience. A new extension has been added to give their visitors the welcome theyfeel they deserve. Within the room they have information screens where you can delve in the different areas & history of the gardens.
home; from sharks and stingrays to seahorses and turtles.
Visitors are able to enjoy a drink and a snack during the week as well as weekends. A phone app will be available for use as you explore the different plots that will give you an insight in the previous owners history and where things are going moving forward.
For full details and to buy discounted tickets visit www.bristolaquarium.co.uk
Hill Close Gardens are unique so do go along and discover Warwick’s hidden hedged gardens. www.hillclosegardens.com Bristol Aquarium Where the wonders of the deep await… Bristol Aquarium takes you and your family and friends on a spectacular undersea safari. Journey though the waterways of the world and marvel at the thousands of different creatures that call Bristol Aquarium their
Tour, Ghost Tour or Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Tours to enjoy. With its Wild Subtropical Garden (RHS Partner Garden), Sculpture Park, Ride on Train, Working Copper smithy, 9 hole par 3 Pitch and Putt course and the happiest
Immerse yourself in an Urban Jungle teeming with exotic plants and trees – there are even bananas growing! An all-weather attraction, located on Bristol’s Harbourside. Open daily from 10am.
A remarkable feature of the Railway is that it is very largely run by unpaid volunteers, with a paid staff of around 70 people responsible for administration and commercial activities, plus regular track and rolling stock maintenance. Through the year, volunteers appear on the Railway to perform many tasks, including repairing and repainting
OPEN FOR GROUPS
Sausmarez Manor The Islands of Guernsey closely followed by the Isle of Man has been the safest place from the pandemic and with its rapid and efficient vaccination programme is probably still so. With lots to do and see you will not be able to cram everything in in a fortnight with Island hopping, Ancient Castles and Prehistoric edifices, Occupation reminders, wonderfully clear water for swimming sailing, diving, waters ports, a Picturesque Town, hundreds of beaches, bays and coves with the Jewel in the Crown of the Historic House of Sausmarez Manor dating back over 800 years with still the same family.
CALL OUR DEDICATED GROUP TRAVEL TEAM ON 01562 757 900 OR EMAIL GROUPTRAVEL@SVRLIVE.COM COACH PARTIES OF ALL SIZES WELCOME BOOK YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE AT SVR .CO.UK
The choice of Historic House
30
Photograph Courtesy of Bradley Smith
Coach Touring
visit when you get a chance. Explore and get up Close at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm A trip to the Zoo is great for animal lovers of all ages with over 100 species of animals set over 100 acres, including African Elephants, Lions, White Rhinos, Bears, Meerkats, Zebra’s and a collection of British rare breed farm animals.
stations, reconstructionof viaducts and bridges, and rebuilding locomotives and rolling stock, not to mention operating the trains! Take a journey back in time with friends or colleagues as one of their vintage steam-hauled trains meanders its way from Kidderminster to the ancient riverside town of Bridgnorth.On the way to Bridgnorth your train will pass through the town of Bewdley, with its quaint quayside, gardens and lovely Georgian architecture, then it’s on through theWorcestershire and Shropshire countryside as the Railway hugs the Severn Valley all the way to the end of the line.
heritage skills including traditional combing and weaving and it’s not just the textile production that the site highlights. It also has a full operational complex of Steam boilers and power systems for visitors to explore, and even see in action on their popular ‘Steam Days’. Coldharbour Mill sits on the River Culm and the Gardens and Mill Pond Wildlife and Wetland area provide a beautiful setting in which visitors can walk, relax or grab a bite to eat from their riverside café.
reference of a Mill on the site as far back as Saxon times. Nestled in the quiet village of Uffculme, Coldharbour Mill’s Chimney looms large and is an impressive sight on this Devon skyline. Coldharbour Mill is now celebrating 40 years as an independent museum with a nationally-significant collection. It is Coldharbour Mill’s aim to conserve this rich industrial heritage site while educating and inspiring future generations. Though the Mill’s primary function has always been textile spinning, on a visit you will get to learn about a full range of
All of these features provide a wonderful day out in the Devon countryside and it’s well worth a
Your may start its journey from Kidderminster, Bewdley or Bridgnorth and, with seats on the train reserved for you all, you will really feel that the golden age of the train hasreturned! www.svr.co.uk Coldharbour Mill Uffculme, Devon. Coldharbour Mill in the heart of Uffculme, Devon is an industrial gem of the South West and is one of the oldest woollen textile mills in the UK, having been in continuous production since 1797. But there has been
32
The multi-award-winning zoo, just outside of Bristol, offers a full day’s entertainment with interactive keeper talks and birds of prey display and a giant hedge maze with a new centre lookout tower and heaps of outdoor adventure play to keep the little ones happy and active. For those less able, we also have mobility scooters available for a small charge and free wheelchairs alongside our Changing Places Accessible toilet facility. We have ample free parking for coaches and the driver receives free admittance to the Zoo and a free sandwich and drink voucher. Call to pre book to receive 25% discount off gate prices for trade travel groups over 25 people. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk 01275 852 606 email info@noahsarkzoofarm.co
Croeso i Oriel Gelf Glynn Vivian, Abertawe!
Welcome to Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea!
Canolfan ragoriaeth fywiog a chroesawgar ar gyfer y celfyddydau gweledol yng Nghymru, yng nghanol ardal artistig brysur Abertawe
A vibrant and welcoming centre of excellence for the visual arts in Wales, in the heart of Swansea’s bustling artistic quarter
Cadwch le o flaen llaw neu ffoniwch ni ar 01792 516900 www.glynnvivian.co.uk
Book online in advance, or call us on 01792 516900 www.glynnvivian.co.uk
Ar agor o ddydd Mercher i ddydd Sul, 10.30am – 4pm. Mynediad olaf am 3.30pm
Open Wednesday – Sunday, 10.30am – 4pm. Last entry 3.30pm
Ar gau ar ddydd Llun a dydd Mawrth ac eithrio gwyliau banc
Visit online for all information and planning a safe visit
Mynediad am ddim. Croesewir grwpiau bach. Teithiau ar gael
Free admission. Small groups welcome. Tours available
Coach Touring
Windermere Lake Cruises, Leighton Hall’s two new ‘perfect days out’ invite you to celebrate getting back on the road in 2021. Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Windermere, or a morning of exhilarating motoring history, before a ’famously friendly’ exclusive tour of the Historic Hall’s Gillow craftsmanship.
Mount Ephraim Mount Ephraim Country House & Gardens is a privately owned family home set on more than 800 acres of woodland, pasture and a fruit farm. At the heart of the estate lies the main house and 10 acres of enchanting Edwardian gardens where terraces of fragrant roses lead to a small lake and woodland area overlooking orchards. Mount Ephraim’s Miz Maze, based on a medieval labyrinth, is planted with ornamental grasses and herbaceous perennials, creating a “Catherine Wheel” of contrasting colors. In addition, there’s a Japanese Rock Garden and Water Garden and some elaborate and unusual topiary sculpted into a collection of birds, animals and First World War memorabilia.
Cardiff Boat Tours offers a covered 90 seat water taxi running between Cardiff Bay and Bute Park in the heart of the city. Cool in summer, warm in winter, with a fascinating commentary telling of the sights and history along the way. Group discounts are available. For small groups, our vintage open boat Singfly is perfect for a tour tailored to individual requirements.
both the house and gardens. The West Wing Tea Room caters for groups offering morning coffee and pastries, homemade lunches and fresh afternoon teas. Groups can dine in the West Wing or on the terrace overlooking the topiary. The gardens are open from 11am until 5pm on Wednesdays until Sundays and Bank Holidays between April and September but groups are welcome at any time by prior appointment.
www.cardiffcruises.com Steer your group to Leighton’s two thrilling new ‘perfect days out’ Proudly partnering with the Lakeland Motor Museum and
Cardiff Boat Tours
The estate has been owned by the Dawes family since 1695 and is still run by the family today. Indeed, it’s their personal touch that gives Mount Ephraim Gardens such a special charm. Groups Mount Ephraim welcomes groups and offers discounted rates for groups of 10 adults or more. Private tours are available from the owners or the head gardener with information about the history of
34
Both include time to enjoy Leighton’s glorious gardens, charming traditional tearoom, and birds of prey flying display (summer season, weather permitting. Now offering seven half and full day exclusive group tours all year round, there’s something to suit every interest. From a Brief Encounter at Carnforth Heritage Centre, to a lavish afternoon tea or candlelit Christmas festivities, groups enjoy exclusive access, so book in advance to secure a bright summer season and beyond. Winners at the UK National Coach Awards, Leighton and partners’ tried and tested norush, Covid-safe itineraries guarantee minimal travel, excellent value for money, free coach parking, driver rest area and refreshments. See www.leightonhall.co.uk or call 01524 734474
ES EW G 1 N A 02 CK 2 PA FOR ENTERTAINING HOUSE TOURS ~ SPECTACULAR SPECIAL EVENTS ~ BEAUTIFUL GARDENS MAGNIFICENT BIRDS OF PREY ~ CHARMING TEA ROOMS
7 GROUP PACKAGES TO CHOOSE FROM
NEW FOR 2021!
New dual destination day out. See www.leightonhall.co.uk for details.
ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES START AT JUST £8.50 Ample free parking ~ Pre booked groups of 20 or more welcome all year round M6 Exit 35, Carnforth, Lancashire LA5 9ST • T: 01524 734474 www.leightonhall.co.uk
W NO LE 22 SA 20 ON
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