Devon For Groups by Beau Media

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Dev

Devon Unveiled: Tales and Tantalizing Tastes for Groups

Located in England's enchanting southwest, Devon is more than a destination; it's a profound experience, a love aﬀair that began for me during a passionate summer in my youth. e moors stretch out lazily like a cat basking in the aernoon sun, while hidden coves evoke scenes from Daphne du Maurier' s novels.

Clovelly whispers seductive tales through its cobbled streets, each stone a piece of a larger mosaic of stories ﬁlled with love, loss, and the occasional smuggler Meanwhile, Wistman's Wood, with its ancient oaks entwined in a mossy embrace, feels like stepping into a Tolkien realm, sans the orcs.

No visit to Devon is complete without savoring its culinary delights. e Devonshire cream tea,

with its luscious clotted cream, rich jam, and warm scones, is like a so kiss on a ﬁrst date: surprising yet instantly familiar. And let’s not forget the pasties a delicious blend of crust, meat, and tradition

Immerse yourself in local culture by witnessing the ﬁery spectacle of tar barrel-carrying in Ottery St. Mary. is adrenaline-fueled event is more than a tradition; it's a dramatic ballet danced to the beat of ancestral drums.

With its rich lore and breathtaking landscapes, Devon is not just a place to visit but a timeless sonnet Venture forth, explore, and lose yourself, for in Devon, getting lost is where the stories truly begin.

Pictures courtesy of V isit Devon unless other wise stated AS Watersports Paddleboarding (c) Matt Round

Braveheart above Goodring ton beach

Darting ton Cr ystal V isitor Centre Puﬃns

Braveheart Goodring ton beach huts Torquay harbour bridg e

Powderham Castle

V isit De

V isit Devon Clovelly - Harbour

V isit Devon

Exeter (c) Matt Round

Waterfront Exeter

Exmouth

Kents Caven

Exeter Red Coat Guide

The famous English Riviera

Planning a group holiday can be a daunting task, but choosing the right destination and accommodation can turn the challenge into a delightful experience. For those looking to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and vibrant seaside towns of Devon, e Queens Hotel in Paignton, e Palace Hotel in Paignton, and e Headland Hotel in Torquay oﬀer the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and charm on the famous English Riviera.

sourced cuisine, provide an excellent venue for group meals. Additionally, the hotel's indoor swimming pool and entertainment programs make it a hit with guests of all ages, oﬀering activities that cater to diverse interests

Tel : 01803 551048

www qu eensp aignton com

e Pa lace Hotel, Pa ignton

A short stroll from the bustling Paignton Pier, e 55

e

Qu eens Hotel, Paignton

Nestled in the heart of Paignton, e 75 bedroomed Queens Hotel is a beacon of traditional English hospitality. Its prime location oﬀers easy access to the stunning Paignton Beach and the charming town centre, making it an ideal base for exploring the local area. e hotel boasts a range of room types to suit diﬀerent group sizes including a large amount of single occupancy rooms, ensuring everyone has a comfortable stay. e Queens Hotel's excellent dining facilities, including an onsite restaurant serving locally

bedroomed Palace Hotel is another gem in this seaside town. is elegant hotel exudes a sense of grandeur while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere perfect for groups. Its extensive amenities include a well-equipped ﬁtness centre, indoor swimming pool, and beautifully maintained gardens, providing plenty of options for relaxation and recreation. e Palace Hotel’s spacious lounges are perfect for group gatherings, whether you’re planning a celebratory event or a casual get-together. Its proximity to local attractions such as the Paignton Zoo and the

Dartmouth Steam Railway adds to the convenience, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Tel : 01803 555121

www.palacepa ig nton .com

e Headlan d Hotel, Torquay

Perched on the edge of Torquay’s coastline, e 78 bedroomed Headland Hotel oﬀers breathtaking views of the sea, providing a stunning backdrop for any group holiday. is historic hotel combines classic elegance with modern comfort, featuring stylish rooms and top-notch facilities. e Headland’s restaurant and bar areas are perfect for group dining, oﬀering a variety of delicious dishes and a wide selection of beverages. e hotel’s expansive grounds include lush gardens and indoor hydro pools, ideal for

socialising and relaxation. Its location near Torquay’s vibrant marina and attractions like the famous Kents Cavern or Meadfoot beach means groups have a wealth of activities to explore.

e Queens Hotel, e Palace Hotel, and e Headland Hotel provide exceptional settings for memorable group holidays. Each hotel oﬀers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and local charm, ensuring that every member of your group ﬁnds something to love. From their prime locations and excellent facilities to their welcoming atmospheres and top-notch service, these hotels in Paignton and Torquay on the English Riviera are truly perfect for creating unforgettable experiences.

Tel : 01803 295666 www.headlandtorquay.com

Dev ’ s Top Arais

Delve into Dev for Groups!

Devon is a stunning count y with two coastlines and 300 miles of beautiful shoreline. With two National Parks and ﬁve Areas of Outstanding Natural Beaut y, it oﬀers beaches for ever y water sport or simply rela xing in the sun However, there’s much more to discover. Delve into Devon and explore some of the UK’s top groupfriendly attractions

D estination De von : Perfect for Groups

Whether for coach parties, small groups, or educational visits, Devon offers a wealth of activities and top -qualit y attractions, making itinerar y planning easy. Attractions are annually inspected to ensure hig h standards, offering interesting days out with group discounts and facilities. Some even offer great value joint tickets.

Award-Winn ing D estination

Devon excels in the group travel market, reg ularly showcasing at UK group travel shows. It won the Best UK Destination Award at the 2019 Group Leisure and Travel awards and has been a ﬁnalist on other occasions. e count y ' s top attractions include castles, botanical g ardens, stately homes, steam railways, trams, boat cruises, museums, abbe ys, theme parks, and farm parks

A Wealth of Histor y an d Culture

Devon is rich in heritag e, histor y, and culture. Exeter and Plymouth are vibrant cities steeped in histor y, oﬀering great food, drink, and shopping Devon is a year-round destination with spectacular scener y and numerous festivals, making it perfect for coach and touring holidays

Conven ient Information for Group Travel Organ isers

Devon ’ s Top Attractions provides a ‘ one-

stop ’ information shop, oﬀering easy access to attraction information, local knowledg e, and useful contacts. For more details, contact Anne Blackham at info@devonstopattractions co uk

Group -Friend ly Attractions

Histor y & Heritag e

Killerton , National Trust

is magniﬁcent estate, g enerously passed to the National Trust by Sir Richard Acland, is open for exploration e Georg ian mansion and g ardens, with vibrant herbaceous borders and wild meadows, are a treat

Powderham Castle

Located near Exeter, this picturesque castle, home to the 19th Earl & Countess of Devon, oﬀers 600 years of histor y and a mag ical setting

Cold harbour Mill

One of the oldest woollen mills in the UK , this working museum allows visitors to see traditional textiles being made and oﬀers great group deals.

Steam R ailways, Boats, and Trams

S outh De von Ra ilway

is award-winning heritag e steam railway oﬀers scenic rides along the River Dart, evoking the Great Western R ailway era

S eaton Tramway

Operating throug h the Axe Valle y estuar y, these narrow-g aug e trams provide stunning views of nature reser ves and birdlife

Byg ones

Seaton Tramway

Children visiting Mammoth Galler y at e Box

Paignton ZooSumatranTig ers

Clovelly

South Devon R ailway

Stuart Line Cruises

Sail the River Exe or the Jurassic Coast L ine to enjoy stunning scener y and wildlife, with informative commentar y

Museums

World of Countr y L ife

is family farm park in Exmouth features a museum of farming machiner y, a V ictorian street, and vintag e vehicles.

Roya l Albert Memorial

Museum (R AMM) Exeter ’ s world-class museum oﬀers stunning displays and g alleries revealing Devon and Exeter ’ s rich histor y

e Box

Plymouth’s award-winning museum and art g aller y oﬀers free entr y and is perfect for groups

Torbay Attractions

Kents Cavern

Explore Britain’s oldest home with its extensive cave system, oﬀering tours, a shop, and a visitor centre

Babbacomb e Model V illa ge

is park portrays Eng lish life over six decades and features award-winning g ardens and a restaurant with fantastic views

Bygones

is independent attraction oﬀers a V ictorian street, wartime Britain displays, and more across three ﬂoors.

North De von Attractions

R HS Garden R osemoor

ese g ardens oﬀer over 100 acres of woodland, formal and informal planting s, and seasonal activities

Darting ton Cr ystal

e UK’s only remaining g lass factor y oﬀers factor y tours, shopping , and dining

Clovelly V illag e

is picturesque, traﬃc-free villag e with cobbled streets oﬀers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere

Q uince Hon ey Farm

A working hone y farm in South Molton, oﬀering tours, hone y tasting s, and interactive hive experiences.

Fre e Entr y Days Out

Donkey Sanctuar y

Open year-round, this sanctuar y in Sidmouth oﬀers hundreds of donke ys to meet, a restaurant, and g uided tours.

Buckfa st Abbey

A working Benedictine Monaster y, this tranquil site oﬀers g ardens, shops, a hotel, and free g uided tours

An imals an d Nature

Paignton Zoo

Home to over 2,000 animals, this zoo oﬀers an inspirational day out focused on wildlife conser vation

Canonteign Falls

Experience peaceful walks among waterfalls and lakes in Dartmoor National Park .

Be cky Fa lls

Explore ancient woodlands and stunning falls at this iconic Dartmoor landmark .

Family Days O ut

Devon ’ s theme parks, including Crealy eme Park and Resort, Woodlands Family eme Park, and e Big Sheep, oﬀer a full day of excitement for all ag es

Gard ens and Parks

Devon boasts beautiful natural scener y, including coastal views and inland greener y. Enjoy formal cit y g ardens and top g arden attractions, perfect for peaceful strolls or family fun.

Find all these attractions and more on the Devon ’ s Top Attractions website : www devonstopattractions co uk

Kents Cavern

Vit Dev

Located in the South West of England, between Somerset, Dorset and Cornwall is mother nature ’ s playground, also known as Devon.

Devon boasts diverse landscapes, including two coastlines, two cities, and two national parks. With five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beaut y, a UNESCO Biosphere Reser ve, a UNESCO Geopark, and a UNESCO World Heritag e Site, its natural splendor is unparalleled e reg ion is also home to the UK’s first surf reser ve and first dark sky reser ve. Moreover, Devon proudly claims the title of the true inventors of the past y and the only ones who can correctly eat a cream tea Devon really is much more than you mig ht think . Not only do you g et the best of both worlds in terms of coastal resorts and rural retreats, but you can also enjoy bustling cities, traditional West Countr y charm, inspirational myths and leg ends, incredible locally sourced food and drink, and a host of attractions suitable for the whole family ! at’s not even touching on the various nature reser ves, Sites of Scientific Interest, an abundance of Blue Flag beaches, and of course, the bustling market towns and prett y villag es. Ever ywhere you look, you’ll find ancient g eolog y, fascinating histor y, inspiring art, and cutting -edg e entertainment. With such a diverse landscape, the question isn’t should I come to Devon, but rather, where do you want to explore first ! Perfect for those seeking rela xation, those wanting

some adventure, those looking to discover something new with ever y visit, and those who want a bit of ever ything , Devon is the perfect destination And the best bit ? You don’t even have to leave the UK!

With its own micro -climate making it one of the warmest places in the UK , and ever ything on oﬀer from walking an alpaca to rock climbing to crabbing to sunbathing , Devon truly oﬀers something for ever yone. Endlessly dog -friendly and full of family attractions, bars, Michelin star restaurants, and much more, there is always something to discover in Devon. is is a count y of adventure, discover y, and delicious food and drink

Here you will find an abundance of fresh fish and seafood, oen ser ved the same day it is caug ht, wonderful homegrown meat, fresh fruit and veg etables, and of course, lots of clotted cream – perfect for a cream tea – something that Devon is particularly famous for. Just remember, it is always cream first !

When you think of Devon, chances are you conjure thoug hts of sandy beaches, melting ice cream, and nostalg ia for British summers g one by No matter where you are in Devon, you ’ re never too far from the beach. Whether you want to spend the day sunbathing in South Devon, exploring the hidden coves

and bays once frequented by pirates, challeng ing yourself to some water sports in North Devon, where you’ll find the UK’s first surf reser ve, or exploring the reg ion’s fascinating g eolog y along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritag e Site As of 2021, Devon was awarded fourteen Blue Flag Awards for their beaches Blue Flag awards are g iven to areas recognised as being clean, safe and accessible, which is why Devon is a top choice for family-friendly holidays. You can find the most recent Blue Flag beaches at Blackpool Sands, Broadsands Beach, Challaboroug h Beach, Dawlish Warren Beach, Exmouth Beach, Meadfoot Beach, Oddicombe Beach, Preston Sands, Sandy Bay, Sidmouth Town Beach, Teignmouth Town Beach, Torre Abbe y Beach, Westward Ho ! Beach, and Breakwater Beach You’ll also find Britain’s best beach here, at Woolacombe, so it is no wonder that Devon reminds us of beach holidays and sunshine – but it is so much more than that.

With two coastlines and its old-world charm, it is easy to recreate your childhood holidays for your own families.

In North Devon, you’ll ﬁnd unparalleled coastal views and the reg ion known as L ittle Switzerland, which has inspired romantic poets for

g enerations. Not content with being the UK’s favourite surf spot, North Devon is also home to the UK’s ﬁrst Dark Skies Reser ve, something that is celebrated ever y year on Exmoor. is incredibly unique festival is one of the reg ion’s must-visit events and is a great way to truly experience the nig ht sky at isn’t the only fascinating festival you can enjoy in Devon, see a West Countr y tradition by visiting Otter y St Mar y in East Devon around Bonﬁre Nig ht – it is the only place in the UK that still takes part in Tar Barrel Rolling , where residents make their way around a route while carr ying burning tar barrels. It is also in Otter y St Mar y where you can witness the annual banishing of the villag e ’ s pixies on their Pixie Day ever y Summer Other unique events include a worm charming festival, the reenactment of hunting an earl and the British Firework Championships which takes place in Plymouth.

Aside from the full event ’ s calendar, the count y boasts a number of top attractions, including the South West’s big g est roller coasters, water parks and some of the most famous zoos in the countr y. West Countr y traditions and animal conser vation is a hug e part of the way of life in Devon and you can join in by visiting otter sanctuaries, donke y sanctuaries, working

museums, the oldest g in distiller y in Eng land and even hitching a ride on a horsedrawn barg e ! Whether you ’ re travelling as a group or looking for a romantic g etaway, there are plent y of thing s to see and do in the reg ion, along with some incredible accommodation options, including the world’s best B&B – you’ll ﬁnd it in Torquay.

Speaking of Torquay, families love visiting the Eng lish Riviera’s best-known town With its palm trees and childfriendly atmosphere, this area is steeped in maritime histor y and plays host to a number of festivals and sporting events, as well as having its own UNESCO Geopark and being the birthplace of the Queen of Crime herself, Ag atha Christie Perhaps Devon ’ s most famous export, Ag atha Christie was born in Torquay and had a holiday home at nearby Greenway, now run by the National Trust, whether you ’ re a Christie fan, a bibliophile or love a g ood myster y, there are plent y of ways to channel your inner Ag atha while in and around Torquay.

Torquay is also where you’ll ﬁnd popular resorts, including Paignton, Brixham and Teignmouth and can even spot the locations used in Christie’s books, something you can also ﬁnd In South Devon, where there is fantastic countr yside and coastline and the iconic sea tractors providing access to the beautiful Burg h Island. is is the place to be for g entle walks, water sports and rela xing in the sunshine and is full of award-winning bars and restaurants to enjoy At last count, Devon was home to four Michelin Star eateries and even more recipients of a

coveted Michelin Plate and Taste of the West Awards, so whether you are on the hunt for a meal for a special occasion, a quick bite or a lig ht lunch, you can g uarantee a qualit y dining experience e majorit y of Devon ’ s eateries are committed to celebrating the count y ’ s rich, seasonal produce and menus will chang e constantly during the year to take advantag e of the incredible food and drink that you can find here. While here, make sure to sample a traditional Devonshire Cream Tea , available at eateries and hotels all over the count y and with plent y of varieties, including those that swap the tea for champagne, perfect for a spot of luxur y Other musthaves are real West Countr y cider, much of which can be found on tap, fish and chips, made with the fish fresh from the ocean that day and g in –especially if it is from Eng land’s oldest working distiller y which continues to make g in using an orig inal recipe and traditional methods.

As it is a wonderfully diverse count y, Devon has many diﬀerent areas to explore, with long beaches of g olden sands, rug g ed moors, bustling cities, rolling hills, prett y villag es and pastel-coloured seaside towns

Much of Devon ’ s diversit y comes from the fact that it is an incredibly old count y full of traditional West Countr y charm e oldest human remains in the UK were discovered in the count y and you can see evidence of the past, from Iron Ag e hill forts on Dartmoor to Roman Roads in Exeter and even a Sherman Tank to commemorate the count y ’ s role in WWII all over the count y

While the tranquillit y of the countr yside and the lures of the coast are hug e draws for visitors, the y aren ’ t for ever yone – and Devon is equipped to suit those visitors too as it features two cities ; Exeter and Plymouth Both unique and each bustling and full of histor y and culture, the y are both well worth a visit. e two cities provide amazing shopping opportunities, music venues and more, while the seaside resorts and countr yside towns have charming independent stores and a plethora of activities which really celebrate the count y ’ s West Countr y routes.

Exeter is where you can see the world-famous cathedral, stroll along the quay, indulg e in some retail therapy and can enjoy a bustling nig htlife Plymouth is the home of the reg ion’s maritime histor y and features the Royal William Yard, Plymouth Hoe and a maritime conser vation area , plus a host of entertainment venues. Devon ’ s cities are the ideal destination for anyone wanting to experience the culture and vibranc y of a cit y break, while also having the opportunit y to escape into a quieter and more leisurely way of life. Both cities are surrounded by charming coast and countr yside, making them an ideal compromise for the travellers who want a bit of ever ything

If being in the centre of the action appeals to you, Devon has plent y to oﬀer, especially in the Mid Devon reg ion, which is equidistance from the coastlines in both the North and South of the count y and the two National Parks. is reg ion is the perfect location to explore the whole of the count y and with

mainline train stations, you can easily access the towns, villag es and cities all over the count y Not only that, but Devon has the most roads of any other count y in Eng land, so exploring has never been easier ! e Mid-Devon reg ion is well known for its rolling hills, woodlands and wildlife, so it's ideal for anyone who loves being outdoors. In fact, the whole count y is full of outdoor adventures, on Dartmoor and Exmoor there are companies offering ever ything from orienteering , abseiling , and rock climbing , plus there are loads of other activities, from rambling , photography and spotting the famous wild ponies Both moors feature their own herds of ponies, hig hland cows, sheep and other creatures – you can even see a herd of mountain g oats on visits to Lynton! Speaking of the moors, these are great places to visit for anyone who wants to find out more about West Countr y traditions and to experience a new way of life. Wherever you choose as your base during a visit to Devon, you can expect a unique charm and a friendly welcome, allowing for a completely different experience each time you visit. For an olde world atmosphere, tr y one of the chocolate box villag es like Cocking ton or for a traditional market town, choose somewhere like Tiverton. For bustling harbours, visit Ilfracombe or for somewhere historical, tr y Clovelly, or for a g entler pace, make Dartmoor and Exmoor a priorit y Dartmoor in particular is a must for those of you looking for some inspiration – it is the home of a host of terrif ying and intrig uing myths and leg ends featuring ever ything from

g iants, g hosts, witches and devilish dog s. It was these stories that inspired the best known of Sherlock Holmes’ adventures, so who knows what you mig ht encounter when traversing the wilds of Whistman’s Wood or climbing one of the tors.

While there is an extensive road network across Devon, one of the best ways to enjoy the sig hts of the count y is by public transport or by foot or bike. e rail lines in the count y take you throug h some of the most picturesque views, especially the Eng lish Rivera line For something a little more nostalg ic, why not visit one of the reg ion’s steam or cliﬀ railways for even more incredible views ? Another way to explore the count y is by following the South West Coast Path, the UK’s long est national trail which runs the

entire leng th of both Devon ’ s coastlines, so no matter where you are in the count y, you can easily access the path and explore

It isn’t just the South West Coast Path oﬀering the chance to see more of the reg ion, in North Devon, you can follow the adventures of Tarka the Otter by walking or c ycling the Tarka Trail where you can see some of the most picturesque places around Bideford and Barnstaple.

If you want to come to the reg ion for some R&R , why not book into one of the reg ion’s spas, with an abundance of spa hotels oﬀering the ultimate rela xation and retreats g iving you the chance to escape and reset, you are never too far from somewhere you can take time for yourself Whether you are looking for something intimate and quiet for a

couple’s break or something for the whole family, there are a rang e of amazing accommodation options across Devon to suit ever y need and budg et. With selfcatering cottag es, hotels, B&Bs, holiday parks, camping sites and even g lamping and alternative accommodation options, you can choose anything from the traditional to the more unusual. ere are even properties perfect for g uests with additional access needs. With coastal views, countr yside escapes and cit y centre boutiques, you can find the perfect home from home. Want to bring your dog with you – that’s not a problem, you’ll find plent y of accommodation options so the whole family can enjoy a holiday. You won ’ t only find places to stay, Devon is full of dog -friendly attractions too If there is something that dog s

and humans have in common, it’s loving the feeling of warm sand between their toes –something else you can enjoy with your dog s in Devon –the count y is full of beaches where there are dog -friendly sections during the peak months and even a couple that welcome dog s all year round ! What could be better than watching a sunset and enjoying ice cream tog ether ?

oug h Devon is one of the mildest places in the UK and many of the most popular activities take advantag e of the outside environment, you don’t have to worr y about rain stopping play here. e count y has a host of indoor attractions and activities to keep you amused on a t ypical British day – in fact, several of the reg ion’s top attractions feature all-weather activities, so no matter what time of year

you choose to visit, your day doesn’t have to be as dull as the weather !

Devon truly is a count y of adventures, rela xation and discover y, so whatever you are looking for from a UK staycation, you can be sure of a world of discoveries and experiences. It is a count y where you can create memories that will last forever. With an abundance of natural beaut y, culture and histor y spread out across intrig uing towns, villag es, moorland and coast, Devon is the ultimate place to explore and discover.

Spotlight on

Lundy lies oﬀ the coast of North Devon, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Bristol Channel with nothing between it and America , a granite outcrop, three and a half miles long and half a mile wide With the pressures of the modern world, it is a place apart,

peaceful and unspoilt It is diﬃcult to pin down why the island has such an eﬀect on people, what is noticeable is the visitors’ enthusiasm

It is true that Lundy is diﬀerent from any other island and that it is in a wonderful part of the countr y.

If you want to rela x on holiday and be busy doing nothing , this is the place to be !

With 23 self-catering properties to choose from, Lundy is a unique destination for those special occasions like Christmas and St. Valentines, birthdays, and anniversaries

A warm welcome awaits you in Marisco Tavern, oﬀering a g ood selection of beers and wines, excellent meals using Island produce and a friendly atmosphere.

Travel to the island as a day visitor or for a holiday on the handsome supply and passeng er vessel the MS Oldenburg , we sail from Bideford or Ilfracombe, sailing s start the 18th March until the end of October.

During the winter short breaks are available by Helicopter from November to mid March, ﬂying Mondays and Fridays from Hartland Point, North Devon. In just

six exhilarating minutes, enjoying the aerial views, you can escape the rig ours of mainland life.

For more information visit www lundyisland co uk or ca ll 01271 863636

Ca stle Hill

Located in the rolling hills of North Devon, the 50-acre g arden at Castle Hill is a haven of tranquillit y surrounding the magnificent Palladian House is beautiful expanse of g ardens offers a wealth of sig hts and scents that chang e with the seasons ; from the pinks, reds and whites of the camellias in the spring , followed by 170 different magnolias, profusions of rhododendrons and pastel-coloured azaleas

Wander throug h rare trees along tranquil paths with a host of daﬀodils and bluebells among carpets of North Devon primroses e Millennium Garden is a particular joy to walk around on a sunny spring day with its colourful herbaceous borders that lead to winding pathways into historic parkland interspersed with temples, follies and statues.

A climb to the sham castle is

so rewarding for the panoramic views across to Exmoor, Dartmoor and, on a clear day, Lundy Island. e track throug h the magnificent woodland g ardens, filled with a variet y of flowering shrubs, leads down to the river.

L ig ht lunches and refreshments are ser ved from the tearoom from March to October ; the y oﬀer delicious Devon cream teas, a variet y cakes and traybakes, made-toorder sandwiches, seasonal ploug hman’s or soup – the perfect way to round oﬀ a visit.

www castlehill co uk

Darting ton Cr ystal

Discover over ﬁve decades of g lassmaking master y at the captivating Darting ton Cr ystal V isitor Experience eir enthralling Timeline Exhibition showcases iconic Darting ton products spanning half a centur y,

e Audio V isual eatre recounts Darting ton ' s transformation from humble beg inning s to g lobal success, before g iving you a g limpse behind the scenes at the stateof-the-art Cr ystal factor y ﬂoor

In the hands-on Creative Activities area , families can bond while transforming g lass into personal mementos to cherish forever Chat with skilled artisans and pick up g lass making tips whilst watching our skilled team

Lund y Islan d

make beautiful pieces in our Studio Furnace. Why not take the opportunit y to g et a handprint cast forever in g lass

e self-g uided Factor y Experience tour allows visitors to enter the active factor y to witness ﬁrsthand the skills, qualit y, and care that have made Darting ton Cr ystal a g lobally-leading g lassware producer.

Be yond an eng ag ing visitor experience, Darting ton Cr ystal is a premier shopping destination - their retail store not only oﬀers beautiful g lassware but also showcases complementar y g i and homeware brands for a comprehensive selection

e Pavilion Café provides a space to enjoy Fair Trade

Devon roasted coﬀee, lig ht lunches, and snacks, featuring locally-sourced ingredients V isitors can also support the on-site Commons Book Shop, with all proceeds g oing to charit y

Free Parking and Kids g o FREE

*Charg es apply

Find u hem at : L in den Close, Torring ton, North Devon, E X38 7AN T: 01805 626242 E : tours@darting ton co uk www.darting ton .co.u k

Un iqu e and unforgettable experience awa its at Qu in ce Hon ey Farm

A visit to Quince Hone y Farm, the UK’s larg est hone y farm, is sure to be a unique and unforg ettable addition to any tour itinerar y

Situated just oﬀ the A361 North Devon L ink Road, it is ideally located for both tour group visits and quick refreshment breaks, both of which are welcome throug hout the year.

A g uided tour promises to show you the hig hlig hts of Quince Hone y Farm, where the friendly and informative host will talk you throug h the wonder of hone ybees, the beautiful pollinator-friendly g ardens and oﬀer you the chance to do some hone y tasting ! You’ll also be able to visit the shop and the awardwinning Nectar y Restaurant.

If you are simply looking for a great and convenient place to rest a while as you make your way throug h North Devon, then look no further than the farm’s shop and restaurant Free to enter and with ample free parking and toilet facilities, it oﬀers the perfect place to rela x with a hot drink or wholesome homemade lunch Your group are sure to enjoy a browse in the shop which stocks the farm’s own rang e of hone y, beeswa x

candles, skincare, g is and homeware.

Pre-b ooking is requ ire d for a ll larg e groups via hello@quincehone yfarm.co.u k or 01769 572401. For more information visit

www quincehoneyfarm co u k

Tapele y Park

Tapele y Park situated between Instow and Bideford is one of North Devon ’ s best kept secrets, Take in the magniﬁcent views over the Torridg e Estuar y to the sea be yond, and on a clear day you can even see Lundy Island from the front lawn eir grounds are renowned for their beautiful g ardens, particularly the Italian terraces where you can sit and rela x in the peace and

tranquillit y that is Tapele y Park . Wander down to the Permaculture g arden (one of the oldest in the countr y) or take a stroll to the monument with stunning views, just two of the many areas their visitors are able to explore e Histor y Room g ives you an insig ht throug h the g enerations of Tapele y from its humble beg inning s to the present day where the current custodian Hector Christie has made Tapele y Pesticide and Herbicide free for over 15 years One of the only g ardens in North Devon that done is. eir Tea Rooms ser ve snacks and drinks and whenever possible it uses produce grown here at Tapele y from the larg e Kitchen Garden e y welcome coach parties and all will have a complimentar y talk on arrival Garden and house tours are also available at an extra charg e Inspection visits welcome

Tel : 01271 860897

www christie estates co uk

So uth De von for Gro up Travel

and Coach Trips

South De von is ideal for g roup travel and coach trips, welcoming parties of all sizes to share in its amazing oﬀering s

No t wo places are the same in South De von You can easily travel bet ween coastal communities and rural locations, visit the moors and beaches, discover historical sites, or visit upmarket shopping centres all within the same day is makes it perfect for g roups looking to explore various landscapes, villag es, and attractions without long coach journe ys.

Whether your g roup is keen on histor y, exploring g ardens and landscapes, or enjoying cit y centre shopping and nig htlife, you can build the perfect itinerar y in South

De von From coastal water sports to countr yside activities like kayaking , sailing , climbing , and mountain biking , there’s something for e ver yone. Enjoy days at the races, spa retreats, visits to castles and g rand houses, boat trips, steam train rides, and e ven hot air ballooning For older g uests, there are vine yards and breweries, and for young er ones, farm adventures and theme parks.

With so much on oﬀer, your g roup can visit South De von time and time ag ain, always

South Dev

ﬁnding new places to explore and new destinations to add to your itinerar y.

Coast and Co untr yside

South De von boasts a stunning coastline with sheltered coves, wide beaches, rug g ed cliﬀs, picturesque harbours, and bustling coastal communities. is is ﬂanked by miles of some of the countr y ’ s best countr yside, including three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beaut y and a National Park e choice of coach part y stopping points is endless. You can combine overnig ht stays or day trips in rural or seaside locations or focus on discovering the natural g ems in one area South De von ’ s fabulous towns, villag es, or t wo majestic cities are always nearby

With such varied attractions and scener y, it’s no surprise that the accommodation options are equally diverse From holiday parks with luxur y caravans and lodg es to boutique hotels and aﬀordable g roup -friendly spaces, South De von has a g reat rang e of accommodation

Fo llow their Instag ram acc ount @visitso uthde von, and use #so uthde von or #visitso uthde von to share yo ur photos e y mig ht e ven feature your pic ture on the ir fe e d !

For more information on g roup travel in South De von, visit [Group Travel and Coach Parties to South De von

www.vi sitsouthde von.co.uk

Dartmo or National Park

Dartmoor is breathtaking ly beautiful, but it’s more than just the landscape. It’s not only about the wild ponies or the tors, the histor y or the heritag e, but these are a g ood start. is living , breathing , working landscape holds the secrets of a past that stretches back centuries and a future that is both sustainable and g reen.

From rare birds and butterﬂies, Neolithic monuments, and ancient woodland to tradition, folklore, and farming on horseback, Dartmoor has it all It's a haven for literar y g reats and explorers, with the larg est number of archaeolog ical remains in Europe Stone circles, menhirs, stone crosses, and ancient villag es abound. To learn more, check out their archaeolog y pag e.

Dartmoor is home to diverse wildlife, including the iconic Dartmoor ponies and the rare marsh fritillar y butterfly Nature lovers will find an unrivalled choice of walks, c ycle routes, and wildlife to explore Histor y buffs can visit museums to learn about

local my ths and leg ends or join g uided walks or c ycle rides.

Folklore and Leg ends

Dartmoor ’ s folklore and leg ends include tales of pixies, g hosts, witchcra, and mysterious happening s. ese stories have been passed down throug h g enerations and are kept alive today e unspoilt landscape allows visitors to see many of the places as the y were when these e vents unfolded.

Discover more on the Dartmoor My ths & Leg ends Trail.

Foo d and Drink

Dartmoor oﬀers a fantastic choice of restaurants, pubs, hotels, and tearooms where you can enjoy hig h-qualit y food, wine, and ser vice Whether exploring

Dartmoor ’ s beaut y or spending a day on the river, a meal in beautiful surrounding s is the perfect end to your day

South De von Towns and V illag es

Totne s Located on the River Dart, Totnes is just 9 miles from Torquay. e town has a rich histor y with Totnes Castle, e Guildhall, and Totnes Museum. Enjoy South De von ' s best food in its many cafes and restaurants.

The monks welcome you to their home and hope you nd here, peace and tranquillity Enjoy the Abbey's beautiful architecture and gardens, restaurant and shops and stay overnight in Nor thgate House Hotel Ask about our Experience Pack ages for groups of 10 - 50 people

Groups: 01364 645532 or Accommodation: 01364 645630 and quote BEGDTDEVUKGPS24

Concer ts and events all year round. Please check our website for the latest special o ers and events. What’s on

Situated at the mouth of the River Dart, Dartmouth has charming historic streets, a scenic river location, and surrounding countr yside. V isit Dartmouth Castle, Ag atha Christie's Greenway, and the Britannia Royal Naval Colleg e Group tours are available.

Tiver ton

Located in Mid De von, Tiverton is full of histor y with romantic castles, historic houses, and horsedrawn barg es Discover traditional thatched villag es, countr yside walks, wildlife, and local produce

Dawlis h

Nestled bet ween hills and near Dawlish Warren, Dawlish has charming cottag es, villas, narrow streets, bustling shops, famous Black Swans, and welcoming tea rooms

Exmouth

One of De von ' s oldest seaside towns, Exmouth is the g ateway to the World Heritag e Jurassic Coast with t wo miles of sandy beach, water sports, walking and c ycling routes, local shops, and restaurants. Stuart L ine Cruises oﬀers g roup boat trips

For more information on g roup travel in South De von, please visit [Group Travel and Coach Parties to South De von www.visitsouthde von.c o.uk

Sp otlig ht on Buckfa st Abbey

Free to enter, the historic

monaster y of Buckfast Abbe y, is home to a working communit y of Roman Catholic Benedictine Monks Located on the edg e of Dartmoor National Park, the Abbe y is a haven of peace and tranquillit y

Experience packag es now available for g roups from 10 – 50 Renowned for its stunning Abbe y Church with its Lantern Ceiling , and its extensive g rounds, visitors can also enjoy recitals of choral and org an music ; as well as delicious lunches and cream teas oﬀered in e

Grang e Restaurant, there is also a pizzeria on site too Peruse the g i shop and the recently opened Green Hub. Don’t miss the Monastic Way Exhibition, an immersive experience of life as a monk .

e newly refurbished

Conference Centre ser ves as an inspiring space for e vents and meeting s, accommodating up to 200 deleg ates. Mark your calendars for ke y e vents for 2024, namely the Summer Fair 1st – 3rd Aug ust and Christmas Market 28th –30th November

For long er stays, there is a comfortable 33-bedroom Hotel Northg ate House with additional self-catering accommodation and a larg e 50 bed building for g roups. For those seeking retreats we oﬀer monaster y accommodation for men and have newly refurbished accommodation for women and couples. Check our website for latest special oﬀers

ere are concerts throug hout the year at Buckfast Abbe y, with world renowned performers Check out the website for what’s on

during your next visit

Easily accessible from Exeter, Plymouth, Buckfast Abbe y is conveniently located just oﬀ the A38 De von Expressway Open bet ween 10am –4:30pm and there is ample free parking for coaches and cars.

www buckfast org u k

Furs don House

Fursdon House, Garden and Tearoom nestles in the heart of rural Mid De von, in a ver y special and unique rural setting .

e y oﬀer a bespoke opening for g roup tours so that their g uests can make the ver y most of the peace and quiet of this special location

e Fursdon’s have lived here since 1259 – and the y are delig hted to invite g uests to enjoy a rela xed and informative g uided tour of parts of the family home, listen to fascinating family stories and see costumes and other precious artefacts in the family museum. Guests will also have time to take a stroll in the terraced and walled g arden and enjoy the wonderful views across the parkland towards Dartmoor e family continue to restore and de velop the four acre g arden – there are mature trees with shrubs, roses, herbs and naturalistic borders which surround the house and a g rassy path which leads down to a pond and ‘wild’ Meadow g arden

Without exception, all their g uests enjoy the delicious home-baked cakes and scones in the historic Coach Hall Tearoom! e y ser ve tea or coﬀee and cake to their morning g uests and a De vonshire Cream Tea in the aernoon. And on ﬁne days,

g uests are ver y welcome to take a seat in the sunny cobbled court yard and while away some time in the peace and quiet of beautiful Mid De von. e y can host bespoke g roups bet ween Easter Monday and the end of Aug ust. e y look for ward to welcoming your g uests to Fursdon soon.

South De von R ailway

Take a trip back in time on the South De von R ailway, a delig htful steam train journe y along the banks of the river Dart on a t ypical West Countr y branch line

It’s a top all-weather destination for g roups because it oﬀers a hug ely memorable experience with outstanding appeal across all ag e rang es and interests –and at ver y attractive rates for g roups too

At its heart is a delig htful 14mile return steam train journe y. e peaceful countr yside throug h which the line travels is rich in wildlife and the river is ne ver far away. Keep a look out for buzzards and other birds of pre y and, if you are really lucky, you may e ven see a king ﬁsher as it ﬂashes along the river

Your train takes you on a leisurely ride in vintag e carriag es from Buckfastleig h, just oﬀ the A38, midway bet ween Exeter and Plymouth, to Totnes and back ag ain.

At Buckfastleig h, there is a riverside walk and picnic area , g ardens, museum and a well-stocked shop and café. ere is plent y of coach parking with easy, ﬂat access

to the platform

e railway also has t wo neig hbouring attractions, Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterﬂies, next to the station at Buckfastleig h, and Totnes R are Breeds Farm at Totnes, and g roup tickets can be purchased for these as well

More details are at www southdevonra ilway c o u k email trains@so uthde vonrailway. co u k or call 01364 644370

sanctuar y has to oﬀer, from daily talks and scenic walks to eng ag ing exhibits or challeng e yourself by taking part in their maze situated near the Buﬀalo Barn, home to their g entle g iants, the Poitou donke ys

Combine a visit to the sanctuar y with a delicious meal at the Taste of the West award-winning restaurant ; e Kitchen, where fresh, local, seasonal food and drink are ser ved overlooking

Before heading home, don’t forg et to browse the Gi Shop with the knowledg e that e ver y purchase g oes towards helping donke ys Packed with unique donke ydesig n items and souvenirs as well as a chance to adopt your own donke y and take a piece of the sanctuar y home with you

e sanctuar y is open from 9am, 365 days a year, with free admission and parking including dedicated coach

e D onke y Sanctuar y

No trip to De von is complete without visiting e Donke y Sanctuar y e Donke y Sanctuar y is an awardwinning visitor attraction home to lots of friendly donke ys just waiting to meet you. Explore e ver y thing the

the donke ys ’ paddocks and Jurassic Coast

Great value menus are available for pre-booked g roups, including traditional De von cream teas, homemade soup and locallymade cakes, with e ver y penny of proﬁt helping millions of donke ys around the world

Seaton Tramway

Seaton Tramway offers a delig htful g roup travel experience that combines scenic views with a unique tram journe y suitable for all ag es Groups can enjoy comfortable rides in either open-toppers or enclosed saloons, reg ardless of the weather. With a seating capacit y of up to 52 on the larg er trams and options to accommodate larg er g roups, it provides a versatile setting for various e vents At Coly ton Station, the Tramstop Café and Garden Room cater to g roups, offering a rang e of meals and refreshments, including options like cream teas and buffets Group booking s benefit from reduced rates and dedicated trams for larg er g athering s, enhancing the communal experience. Special arrang ements such as bird-watching trips or themed outing s can also be org anized. Advance booking is recommended to ensure a customized experience, particularly for those with mobilit y needs

For more detai ls, visiting the Seaton Tramway ' s g roups pag e www tram co uk/ g ro up -bo oking s

Tiverton Museum of Mid De von Life

lane for easy drop -oﬀ Coach drivers eat free and a g uided tour or talk is included with all g roup booking s. Pre-booking is essential with a minimum one week’s notice.

For more information, visi t www the donke ysanc tuar y org uk/sidmouth or call 01395 578222.

Tiverton Museum of Mid De von L ife is a treasure trove of fascinating objects and quirky artefacts that weave incredible stories about the people who lived locally is larg e town museum showcases hundreds of objects from the past, including old farm tools and horse drawn wag g ons,

along side familiar objects from the home with mang les to t win tubs ! e collection showcases local trades and industries, including the lace factor y which was set up by John Heathcoat in 1816 aer many of his workers followed him on foot from Loug hboroug h Don’t miss the amazing transport g aller y ; hop on board the footplate of the Tivvy Bumper steam eng ine (GWR loco 1442), put on a driver ’ s cap and pull the whistle !

Ever yone will enjoy their visit – whether it’s exploring something new or reminiscing over something from the past. e museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users

e museum is in the centre of Tiverton ; just a couple of minutes’ walk from the bus station or drop oﬀ is possible outside ere is a discount for pre-booked g roups, and the coach driver has free entr y. e museum houses the Tourist Information ser vice for information on the local area .

ww w.tivertonmuseum.org .uk

Creating Luxur y Experiences

e Brend Collection is a family-run hospitalit y business with a leg ac y spanning over ﬁ y years in the South West With g enerations of hands-on experience, the y understand what matters to their g uests, consistently exceeding expectations with each visit, reg ardless of the location e y take pride in extending their hallmark warmth, remarkable dining experiences, and luxurious accommodations to both individual g uests and groups, ensuring that ever y group enjoys a spectacular stay. No

matter where you wish to travel, who you are traveling with, or your speciﬁc interests, the y possess the expertise to curate the ﬁnest experience for your g etaway and customize your stay to meet your preferences. Whether you ' re a group travel org anizer seeking accommodations or a coach operator planning incoming tours, day excursions, or private groups, their dedicated team can seamlessly arrang e tailored packag es

Why choose the Brend Collection for your group experience ?

- e y oﬀer tailor-made itineraries to match your exact requirements.

- A dedicated group specialist will meticulously plan ever y detail.

- A variet y of spacious function rooms are available for conferences, private dining , or entertainment.

- Multiple restaurants share the same commitment to delivering top -qualit y food

and impeccable ser vice

- Private coach travel can be arrang ed for your entire group from a pickup point of your choosing (additional cost may apply).

- Exclusive discounts are available at local attractions.

- e y oﬀer one complimentar y g uest for ever y 25 booked.

- Competitive prices ensure excellent value e friendly and experienced group reser vations team is readily available to assist in planning all the speciﬁcs for your group booking , ensuring a seamless group trip to Devon Discover what sets them apart as the ultimate

destination for org anized group travel in Devon.

Tel : 012 71 340 000 or via email at groups@brendhotels com Visit their website at www.brendhotels.co.uk/groups for more information

Babb acomb e eatre

A valuable asset to the Eng lish Riviera the Babbacombe eatre in Torquay, is renowned for wowing audiences with their hig hly acclaimed family variet y shows, performed with professional casts, throug hout the year.

e venue, orig inally a concert hall, opened its doors in May 1939, and since then the show casts treading the Babbacombe boards have been entertaining you!

‘Fabulous’ is the word most used in reviews on TripAdvisor, Goog le, and the venues social media pag es for their annual seasonal and festive shows. You are invited to join the 5 star cast of this season ’ s production, Fantazy, where you are invited to Take A Ride In e Sky, on the ship, Fantazy ’ , where there are no limits to the realms you can reach, it really is a pleasure cruise - where fantasy becomes a realit y ! Numerous critics when reviewing the show have commented, “ Without doubt the best ever ” For details about all the shows programmed for 2024/25 at Devon ’ s Number 1 theatre (as rated by TripAdvisor), check out the website During 2024 as well as FANTA ZY, there are appearances from iconic performers, including , Jim Davidson, Chris Mc Causland, G4, Roy Chubby Brown, Roy Hemming s, Spencer James, Henning Wehn, Dean Friedman and Martin Fr y to name just a few ! Inspiring audiences to continue to support local venues, is never an easy task, however creating mag ical memories is what ever yone at the Babbacombe eatre will strive to achieve not only this year but for years to come. e theatre has • Access for wheelchair users with an accessible toilet, • Wheelchair spaces • Loop System

ww w.babb acombe-theatre.com

breathtaking natural wonder nestled in the heart of Devon. Spanning 90 acres of picturesque parkland, this hidden g em oﬀers something for ever yone, from families seeking fun to peace-seekers looking for tranquillit y Escape the crowds and experience the hig hest waterfall in Dartmoor National Park

For g arden lovers, e

V ictorian Fern Garden, awarded Plant Heritag e National Collection status in 2022, is an historic snapshot of the 19th Centur y craze for ferns and fairies. Climb up throug h ancient woodland via the orig inal 90 steps into a mag ical landscape before carr ying on to view the Falls themselves and see the panorama of the Devon countr yside at your feet

Finally, return down to the Lakes and explore all seven as the y meander across the meadows, providing habitats for a profusion of wildlife.

With a bee g arden, Roald

Dahl-inspired living “ green ship”, poets ’ corner, standing stones, a stunning paved Labyrinth and 90 acres of ancient woodlands and

meadows, you’ll ﬁnd plent y of quiet spots to make your own. Finish the day with a cream tea in their prett y Canonteign Kitchen Café and browse in their award-winning g i shop.

For f urther information on gro up b oo kings and prices email info@canonteign com www.canonteignf all s.co.uk

Vi sit one of De von ` s most hi storic castle s

e ﬁrst Castle built in 1106 on a defensive position hig h above the River Exe at Tiverton by order of Henr y I was a wooden motte and baile y by Richard de Redvers.

e de Redvers became the ﬁrst Norman Earls of De von When the line died out in 1293 the y were succeeded as Earls by the Courtenays, who enlarg ed and rebuilt in stone

In 1495 Princess Katherine of York married William Courtenay who became Earl of De von. She was the daug hter of Edward IV, and aunt of Henr y VIII Unfortunately this royal marriag e led to the e ventual downfall of the Courtenays in that turbulent ag e. In 1645 the Castle was besieg ed and captured by Sir Tom

Fairfa x when a lucky shot hit the drawbridg e chain and the Castle was slig hted. Later rebuilding was carried out by the Carews and various other owners. Nowadays the Castle is a peaceful, private house and the building s, furnishing s and exhibits reﬂect the colourful histor y and de velopment

With continuing conser vation in the Castle and beautiful walled g ardens there is always something new and interesting to see.

Open : From E aster Sunday – end Octo ber on Sundays, ursdays, and Bank Holidays, 2. 30-5.30 last admission 5 00 Fre e parking on site

Tiverton Castle, Park Hi ll, Tiverton, D evon E X16 6RP

Telephone : 01884 253200/255200

Email : info@tivertoncastle c om www.tivertoncastle .c om

Canonteign Fal ls

Canonteign Falls is a stunning natural attraction, a

Steven Hopwood photography

Tiverton Castle Marjorie Anne Howe

DiscoverDartmouth

e beautiful town of Dartmouth, situated at the mouth of the River Dart, is one of South De von ’ s most popular and enchanting destinations. With its charming historic streets, scenic river location, and surrounding South De von countr yside, it is hard to ﬁnd

a town as prett y

e beaut y of the landscape, the historical building s, and the exceptional local produce all make Dartmouth the perfect g roup destination

e River Dart is an ideal playg round for water sports – sailing , kayaking , paddle boarding , and boat trips are all on oﬀer. You can e ven learn to surf at one of the nearby beaches or spend a lazy day enjoying the views. One of the countr y ’ s top beaches, Blackpool Sands, is just a short drive from Dartmouth and is not to be missed

Dartmouth is rich in histor y and heritag e No trip to Dartmouth would be complete without visiting Dartmouth Castle or Ag atha Christie's Greenway, a National Trust holiday home Dartmouth is easily accessible by water, with ferries running from Torquay or Totnes, or you can simply enjoy a trip around the river mouth.

For a nostalg ic journe y throug h the South De von countr yside, catch the steam train from King swear

While in Dartmouth, visit Britannia Royal Naval Colleg e. Join expert resident tour g uides on a re vealing voyag e from past g lories to the present day. e tour includes the eleg ant Chapel, the Quarterdeck, Parade Ground, Senior Gun Room, and Britannia Heritag e Museum, making it g reat for g roups !

For more information on g roup activities in Dartmouth, please visit [www discoverdartmouth co m]( http ://www.discoverdart mouth.com).

Spotlight on

River Dart Countr y Park

Packed with outdoor fun for all ag es, River Dart Countr y Park is located in over 90 stunning acres. ere’s excitement around ever y corner in the extensive adventure playgrounds Explore the activities and test your balance on the Ag ilit y Trail, take in the stunning views inside the Treetop Tower, and g et to the top of the Climbing Pods ! Let imag inations run wild aboard the Pirate Ship or inside the Play Fort, and let competitive kids take on their Assault Course or Bike Pump Track .

ey are all about adventure ! Tr y their Dare Devil activities (Additional cost applies) – all super vised by qualiﬁed outdoor Instructors. Hig h adrenaline activities include a new and

extended Hig h Ropes Course, Meg a Zip Wire, Kayaking and much more !

Dartmoor Bike Park is also located within the Park . With an impressive Freeride Area consisting of four runs graded from blue to orang e. e rang e of short runs contain sizeable jumps and a mulch trick jump (Additional cost applies) Seasonal opening and weather permitting

For those looking for a quieter moment, there are scenic walks along the beautiful River Dart and rug g ed woodlands.

eir licensed cafe bar, the Old Sawmill, oﬀers hig h-qualit y takeaway. Enjoy locally sourced food and drink, freshly prepared on-site.

If staying for the day is not enoug h, why not stay at their award-winning campsite which includes free entr y to the extensive playgrounds ? (Dare

Devil activities and Dartmoor Bike Park not included ) ere’s something for ever yone at Devon ’ s multi-award-winning attraction. Set within the incredible Dartmoor landscape and just a mile oﬀ the A38 in Ashburton, River Dart Countr y Park oﬀers an unforg ettable outdoor experience

www riverdart co uk

Dartmouth Steam R ailway

Dartmouth Steam R ailway steam trains travel seven miles along the spectacular South Devon coast down into the Dart Valley, a designated area of outstanding beaut y, to the beautiful villag e of King swear which sits proudly opposite the prett y Port of Dartmouth. Here you will ﬁnd Dartmouth River Boats which operate on the stunning River Dart oﬀering scheduled ser vices to the historic town of Totnes and

Harbour Cruises operate daily from Dartmouth.

eir unique network combines steam railway, river and sea adventures for days out in Devon. For example, the Round Robin is an award-winning full day out - a steam train journey, ferr y crossing , river cruise and bus ride. ey are also proud operators of the last remaining coal ﬁred paddle steamer in the UK , “King swear Castle”.

And let’s not forg et Christmas !

Your customers can experience the multi award-winning Christmas experience and the UK ' s ver y ﬁrst steam train of lig hts ! e Christmas Train of L ig hts is now the must-see event in the South West festive calendar and g ets big g er ever y year

Contact the Booking Oﬃce for details on all theirtrips and options plus advice on coach parking and drop oﬀ points, etc ey ’ re happy to have a chat !

www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk

Exeter fo r Groups

With a touch of lively, bigcit y atmosphere and a thriving arts scene, Exeter is one of the most vibrant cities in the South West. Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, with narrow historic streets, wonderful architecture, and fascinating heritag e attractions to discover along the way.

Start at the mag niﬁcent Cathedral. Dating back 900 years, it is one of Eng land's most beautiful medie val cathedrals and one of the ﬁnest examples of decorated Gothic architecture in the countr y. It is most famous for its t wo Norman towers, impressive west front car ving s, and the long est unbroken stretch of Gothic vaulting in the world

e Quayside is a ten-minute stroll away, an ideal place to tr y an irresistible De von cream tea at one of the waterside cafés. V isit the Custom House V isitor Centre and discover the cit y ’ s fascinating 2,000-year-long histor y, then browse the antique and cra cellars here. ere are plent y of opportunities to g et active on the Quayside hire a bike or canoe to explore Exeter ’ s ship canal, or scale the South West’s larg est indoor climbing wall !

e Royal Albert Memorial Museum (R AMM) should

Vit Exeter

not be missed. ere’s more in Exeter ’ s award-winning museum than you mig ht imag ine ; its 16 g alleries of displays take visitors on a voyag e of discover y from prehistor y to the present day and from Exeter all around the world With three special exhibition spaces, its chang ing prog ramme means there is likely to be something diﬀerent to see e ver y visit, from communit y displays and ﬁne art from the cit y ’ s collection to an extensive prog ramme of national touring exhibitions, talks, workshops, and activities.

Red Coat Guided Tours of the cit y operate daily and can be pre-booked for g roups

ese walking tours are the perfect way to explore Exeter, discovering the cit y ' s sites of interest and hidden treasures

A variet y of tours are available, each focusing on a diﬀerent aspect of Exeter's histor y, from g hosts and leg ends to the cit y ’ s forg otten histor y

Cast your e yes around St Nicholas Prior y, one of De von ’ s oldest dwelling s, or pay a visit to the Universit y, home to rare plants and sculptures. ere are new plays to catch at Exeter Northcott or the latest in contemporar y art at Exeter Phoenix .

Explore independent shopping quarters and

browse popular hig h street brands At the heart of the cit y is the award-winning Princesshay Quarter with a g reat choice of shops, cafés, and restaurants Head to the Cathedral Quarter to ﬁnd classic independent shops, and don't miss the cobbled Gandy Street with its trendy clothing and jeweller y shops

It's just oﬀ Hig h Street in the Castle Quarter, which is also home to the famous Cavern Club and Exeter Phoenix

Hig h Street runs parallel to Princesshay and the Cathedral area and features all the popular store names, including a larg e John Lewis e Guildhall undercover shopping centre is home to more hig h street names and small individual businesses

e West Quarter is full of quirky, unusual shops situated in attractive historic building s and interesting arcades, leading downhill towards the River Exe. On the edg e of Exeter's cit y centre lies Mag dalen Street, g reat for local food and drink . Just 4 miles from Exeter, the estuar y town of Topsham oﬀers an eclectic cluster of specialist shops and ﬁne restaurants

Exeter is enjoying a food and drink re volution with more and more g reat eating establishments opening in the cit y – it is now renowned as one of the top dining destinations in the South

West. Head to Guildhall Dining for international cuisines and a street food market. Princesshay has popular big -name restaurants, or head to the Cathedral Quarter or Gandy Street for cafés and teashops in charming historic building s, restaurants and bistros with g reat views, and independent restaurants ser ving top -qualit y De von produce.

www.visitexe ter.com/g roups

World of Countr y L ife

World of Countr y life in Exmouth Devon have welcomed groups for many years – and with many reg ular visitors we think they must be doing something rig ht !

With loads to see and do –extensive outdoor grounds and over two and half acres under cover - you will enjoy a whole day of fun

V isit the museum of farming , stroll down memor y lane in the V ictorian Street, have a chat in the pub, peek in the shops and see what was in fashion over the decades, do you remember the WW2 ration books and memorabilia on view ?

Don’t forg et to check out the Hall of Transport - with over 40 vehicles on display it’s one of the best Classic Car and V intag e Vehicle collections in the South West. You should be able to pick out the superstar vehicles that have appeared in IT V ’ s Downton Abbey & Mr Selfridg e

and BB C ’ s Parade’s End – toot toot !

ere is a daily activit y programme which includes a Bird of Prey ﬂying display, the amazing Deer Train Safari* where you g et up close and hand feed a Red Deer, then there is the hilarious animal racing event – all mag ical memor y making experiences.

Take a well-earned break in Farmer Lee ’ s Food Barn where you can enjoy hot or cold snacks or a delicious cream tea – you are in Devon aer all ! Meet and greet for your g uests can be arrang ed along with a sug g ested itinerar y for your group by prior arrang ement. Wheelchairs and a mobilit y scooter are available on free* loan from reception (advanced booking necessar y) An accessibilit y map of the park is available on request and there is a hearing loop available in

reception ere are accessible toilets and disabled parking spaces, assistance dog s are permitted on the park and if people in your part y require a carer, the carer would be entitled to free entr y on production of DL A paper work or similar A group of 20 or more will be entitled to a group booking rate of as well as a special reduced rate to ride on the Deer Train Safari.

ere is plent y of Free parking plus the all important free coach parking and a complimentar y food voucher for the coach driver in Farmer Lee ’ s Food Barn

It’s so easy to book take a look online wocl co uk/memor ylane where you can download a group booking pack or g ive them a call on 01395 274533 World of Countr y L ife is just 10 miles from the M5 junction 30 e Park is open daily from 10

am – 5 pm from 15th March –3rd November 2024

ere are also joint tickets available with Stuart L ine Cruises also in Exmouth or with Seaton Tramway in Seaton –check out the deals on www.wocl.co.uk/mem orylane

*£5 donation to our charit y of the year applies to hire of our mobilit y scooters

One of Europe’s Great Cathedrals, in th e Heart of Devon

Step inside Exeter Cathedral and discover one thousand years of wonder Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beaut y of one of Europe’s most magniﬁcent cathedrals and ﬁnd endless opportunities to explore its amazing architecture, clandestine corners and hidden histories

With reduced entr y fees for

group visits, an easy drop -oﬀ point just a short walk away, and a host of other beneﬁts, Exeter Cathedral is an unmissable hig hlig ht in any Devon group travel itinerar y.

V isitors can choose one of the cathedral’s entertaining g uided tours – with cathedral g uides ﬂuent in foreign lang uag es, including French, German and Spanish – or wander peacefully at their own pace

ere is also a vibrant calendar of world-class events, performances, exhibitions and inclusive ser vices to suit all tastes Or, for a truly unique experience, groups can make an appointment to visit the Cathedral L ibrar y & Archives*, with books dating back over a thousand years.

And when it is time to rela x and recharg e, visitors will ﬁnd a mouth-watering selection of

locally-sourced refreshments from our Ten Fi y Café, located on the beautiful Cathedral Green, plus unique g is and souvenirs from the Cathedral Shop.

Admission rates for advance booked groups start at £5.50 per person for an ung uided visit, or for £6 this can include a standard tour. Special tours ( including roof tours) beg in at £10 per person

For th e latest information, please visit bit ly/exetercathedra l-group -visits or email vi sit@exeter-cathedral.org .uk

*Advance booking required

Stuart L ine Cruises

Located a short hop from the M5, award-winning Stuart L ine Cruises oﬀer sig htseeing cruises of the River Exe, UNESCO World Heritag e Site, e Jurassic Coast and a rang e of day trips and Special Events - there is something for ever yone to enjoy that will ﬁt into a wide rang e of itineraries and themes.

Our all-weather vessels sail rain

or shine, thanks to the calm, sheltered waters of the River Exe - home to far-reaching views of rolling green hills, rich histor y and an abundance of wildlife during winter.

Comprising of two exceptionally well-kept vesselsPride of Exmouth and Tudor Rose, both boats feature opentop decks and lower covered, heated saloons, equipped with a fully-stocked bar, immaculate toilets, live commentar y from the Skipper throug hout cruises and larg e, panoramic windows

A cruise with us is widely considered a showstopping hig hlig ht for a variet y of itineraries and tours and makes for a perfect standalone excursion Booking is easy Not only do we offer discounted rates for groups of 15 people or more, we can also work with you to build in trips to compliment your itinerar y for the next season With no deposit required for booking s, we offer flexibilit y for tour operators and group org anisers

Stuart L ine Cruises ver y much look for ward to welcoming you aboard !

Killerton Estate

Would you g ive away your family home for your political beliefs ? Sir Richard Acland did just that with his Killerton Estate in the heart of Devon when he passed it on to the National Trust in 1944 Today, you'll ﬁnd a friendly Georg ian house set in 2,600 hectares (6,400 acres) of working farmland, woods, parkland, cottag es, and orchards.

ere's plent y of calm space in the g lorious g arden, beautiful year-round with rhododendrons, magnolias,

champion trees and formal lawns. You can explore winding paths, climb an extinct volcano, discover an Iron Ag e hill fort, and take in distant views towards Dartmoor.

Killerton house is also home to the National Trust’s big g est fashion collection, with more than 20,000 items of historic clothing and accessories As it’s impossible to display ever y item at once, the fashion team create reg ular exhibitions on the ﬁrst ﬂoor of the house. Each exhibition showcases about 80100 items from the collection

Aer a leisurely stroll around the g arden, stop by one of the cafés for some refreshments before browsing for g is or souvenirs in the National Trust shop or second-hand bookshop

www nationaltrust org uk/kil lerton

Welc ome to the Eng lish Riviera

With Mediterranean-st yle views and a mild climate, the Eng lish Riviera in South De von is the ideal location for g roups of all sizes And it’s not just about summerthe Eng lish Riviera is a wonderful coastal destination throug hout the year, with attractions, experiences and a vast selection of g roup hotels waiting to welcome you.

e 22-mile coastline of the Eng lish Riviera , a UNESCO Global Geopark, has the three seaside towns of Torquay, Paig nton and Brixham, nestled around its bay It is a fantastic yearround destination for a g roup holiday, with accessible coach parking available across the resort and world-class attractions and entertainment

Why is the Eng lish Riviera so Spe ci al ?

e Birthplace of Ag atha Christie

e world’s best-selling novelist, and Queen of Crime, was born in Torquay. Take a g uided or self-g uided walk around the seafront, spotting places of Ag athainterest along the Ag atha Christie Mile V isit the dedicated Ag atha Christie g aller y at Torquay Museum and at nearby Torre Abbe y, investig ate the Potent Plants

English Riviera

Garden, inspired by Ag atha’s knowledg e of all thing s poison. Stop in at one of our g rand hotels or characterful cafes for a De von cream team, before heading to Ag atha’s beloved holiday home at Greenway House and Gardens (National Trust), just 20 minutes from Paig nton Groups love exploring the 1950s-set house and wooded g ardens with river views.

One o f Earth’s Extraordinar y Places

e Eng lish Riviera is the UK’s only coastal UNESCO Global Geopark, meaning that its breath-taking coves, cliﬀs and countr yside are recog nised internationally as being of unique g eolog ical interest. So whether you are paddling in the clear waters, dolphin-spotting on a wildlife cruise, wandering the stunning South West Coast Path, or exploring prehistoric caves at Kents Cavern, you will be experiencing one of Earth’s extraordinar y places

Eng land’s Seafood Coast Named Eng land’s Seafood Coast for g ood reason, the Eng lish Riviera is home to the UK’s ﬁnest seafood A stroll around picturesque Brixham, a vibrant ﬁshing villag e, is the perfect opportunit y to sample freshly caug ht and locally landed seafood at one of the many cafes and restaurants For early risers, how about an

early morning tour of the world-famous Brixham Fish Market, with a delicious seafood breakfast included ! Brixham harbour is also home to a full-size replica of Francis Drake’s Tudor g alleon, the Golden Hind e crew of this museum ship welcomes g roups onboard for a g uided tour, oﬀering a unique living histor y experience.

Experi enc es

V isit Sandridg e Barton for a vine yard safari or g uided tasting s in a g org eous valle y setting If dr y land isn’t your thing , your g roup can take to the seas on a seafari, RIB ride or coastal cruise No visit to the Eng lish Riviera is complete without a trip on the Paig nton to Dartmouth vintag e steam train, running along the stunning Eng lish Riviera coastline before crossing to the sparkling waters of the river Dart. In wintertime, it transforms into the mag ical Train of L ig hts, as part of the resortwide Bay of L ig hts festivities.

Cocking ton is the quintessential Eng lish villag e, much loved by visitors Its thatched cottag es, beautiful parkland, artisan cra shops and cafes all make it an unmissable destination for any visit to the Eng lish Riviera is is another ideal setting for a De von cream tea - cream ﬁrst, please !

Attractions

A friendly Eng lish Riviera welcome awaits g roups with possibly the hig hest concentration of top -qualit y, year-round attractions of any British resort

Torre Abbe y dates from 1196 and is now a museum and art space with g ardens that ﬂourish in the mild climate. Meet De von ’ s only mummy and Torquay ’ s famous explorers at Torquay Museum. Both museums have an exciting prog ramme of exhibitions throug hout the year, so there is always something new for g roups to discover.

Babbacombe is a beautiful area , with panoramic cliop views from a le vel and accessible promenade At Babbacombe you will ﬁnd Byg ones, a top heritag e indoor attraction packed with over 100 years of British nostalg ia and curiosities. Nearby is Babbacombe Model V illag e, a unique attraction set in 4 acres of g ardens. It showcases hundreds of hand-craed models and scenes which are full of humour.

For an inspiring day out come rain or shine, Paig nton Z oo ( part of the Wild Planet Trust conser vation charit y), is one of Britain’s top zoos, with over 2000 animals and countless amazing plants across 80 acres of g rounds.

Entertainment

e Eng lish Riviera keeps audiences on the edg e of their seats with six theatres oﬀering a year-round prog ramme of comedy, music, drama , and West End touring shows. Many g roup hotels oﬀer e vening entertainment or can arrang e theatre outing s for you.

Group Accommodation

e Eng lish Riviera has hotels to suit e ver y budg et and g roup size Most are open all year and many offer special g roup rates Newly built hotels including a Mercure, an Ibis St yles and a Premier Inn are some of the new arrivals in this flourishing resort, joining characterful and historic properties offering some oldst yle Eng lish Riviera g lamour. Cocktails on the

terrace with a sea view, anyone ?

Dartmoor National Park, Plymouth and the cathedral cit y of Exeter are all within an hour ’ s drive should you wish to explore further Need more reasons to bring your g roup to the Eng lish Riviera ?

V isit eng lishriviera co uk to ﬁnd out what’s on during your stay, to search for accommodation, attractions and activities, or simply for further inspiration

Support for Groups e friendly team at the Eng lish Riviera V isitor Information Centre are on hand year-round to help g roup travel org anisers ﬁnd hotels, provide useful contacts and copyrig ht free imag es/videos and to help de velop itineraries.

For a free copy of the Eng lish Riviera Group Operators

Director y,

Call 01803 211211 or email enquirie s@eng lishrivierabid co uk eng lishriviera c o uk

Kents Cavern

is a spectacular natural cave on the coast of south De von, Eng land with an incredible histor y that beg an 400 million years ag o. e cave was used by Britain’s ﬁrst humans including Neanderthals. Remains of mammoth, woolly rhino and cave bears are found here e award-winning attraction, with a café and g i shop, is a short walk from local beaches and the beautiful South West Coast path Kents Cavern is Britain’s most accessible cave, in an urban setting , we

specialise in g roup visits and welcome all ag es into the cave.

Kents Cavern is a g ateway for UNESCO's Eng lish Riviera Global Geopark in Torquay, the birthplace of Ag atha Christie, the World’s most published crime writer.

e tour of the cave g ives an amazing insig ht into Ice Ag e life and an opportunit y to see naturally formed chambers, stunning g eolog ical formations and to walk throug h an underg round world that was home to Europe ’ s ﬁrst humans

Contact them for a complimentar y familiarisation visit, the y would love to show you around !

Plymouth lays claim as Britain’s Ocean City

Smeaton’s Tower

Cobbled streets and cockles on the beach. If there’s one thing in more abundance than histor y, it’s the waters.

e estuaries of the Plym and the Tamar, both empt ying into the Sound, help Plymouth live up to it’s oceanic sobriquet It’s the Plymouth way, or the water way, as Simon Walton discovers the intricate tapestr y of coves and bays, docks and harbours, that make up the Plymouth’s uniquely inter woven marriag e with the ocean

East

End Buoys and West End Gu lls

e Moxy is rather foxy e y could use that strapline at the hippest new hotel in Plymouth “Ahoy there, mate ys, ” is the standard g reeting from the Morg an Hammond lookalike at the pirate-themed reception desk . Cutthroat Island this isn’t. Welcome cocktails (rum of course) and spacious rooms, decked out with nauticalthemed

touches ere’s no shivering of timbers nor splicing of main braces at this treasure chest of modern eﬃcienc y and comfort Groups checked in faster than a press-g ang ed crew of salt y de vils. It’s oﬀ to sail the sig hts of maritime Plymouth, Britain’s self-st yled ocean cit y.

e talk is all about pre-war Plymouth. Pre that is, the war occasioned by that little French corporal with ideas above his station A war e ven before Philip of Spain set his spyg lass on De von ' s shores. By the time of that armada thing , that Drake’s mates dutifully dispatched, Plymouth was already a bustling naval base and port, full of Elizabethan warships and warehouses, charming shops, and coﬀee shops, antiques and ale houses, all nestled within earshot of a spinnaker, tolling like a bell in the southwesterly breeze.

Big g er and better, mo dern Plymouth aﬀords all the ship and shore fac iliti es that beﬁt a de stination port

l not want, for a ferr y Roscoﬀ or Santander, if our g roup sails in Want not for a cruiser nor a chandler, you yacht y t ypes Nor will your crew lack for shopping . A thousand outiques and market ders ﬁll the hig h streets de streets. Barg ains in

Barbican, the historic heart, are always there to be found.

ere’s nothing mock about the Tudor around New Street, and here’s another surprise : New Street isn’t ver y new. It’s actually Plymouth’s oldest thoroug hfare Home to the celebrated neig hbouring g ems of the Tudor and the Merchant tea and coffee houses, and the nearby Parade Antiques, the big g est emporium in Plymouth’s curios corner en there’s a coffee or a confection in all weathers from the South Western Tram, a stall st yled aer Plymouth’s long -lost shoreside transport. Once upon a time, the real trams would bring workers and wanderers to the dockside, meeting arrivals from the Americas. Back then, firstclass passeng ers in a hurr y would disembark at Plymouth from luxurious Atlantic liners. In a blast of rails, steam, and speed, dockside express trains would deliver them to London a full day in advance of those landing further up the south coast. Echoes of those impatient departures can still be found, in rusting rails, embedded in the quaysides. Spy them as you stroll bet ween warehouses, refitted into swish dockside apartments, lined with waterfront watering holes and eateries.

- and the y g ave us back the L ittle Mermaid. anks, America ! A little wide of the mark for sure, but bear in mind that the actual embarkation took place in what is now the beer g arden of the Admiral MacBride ale house. Ah well, you can always toast those overseas adventurers with a selection of ver y fine ales. Having done so, a few times, this stor y will make much more sense e actual, and somewhat more factual, account of those foundling castaways is told next door, at the Mayflower Museum, in a remarkably detailed and accurate context. Top tip : head rig ht up to the third-floor balcony for quintessential Plymouth yachts and harbour g roup selfie on the viewing balcony.

Wonderfu l walkable Plymouth.

Just on the other side of the

harbour, connected by a convenient g ang way come liing footbridg e, the National Maritime Aquarium awaits in all its ﬁshy splendor. With the big g est tanks in Britain, if not Europe, the NMA is home to the astonishing variet y of marine life rig ht on our shoreline Get up close with some of the most sociable ﬁsh on the planet. If you ’ re extra well-behaved, the eng ag ing Harriet Nemo (not her real surname) will take you backstag e for an exclusive tour of the plumbing … and all the cutting -edg e research that g oes on behind the scenes. Wonderful, swimmable Plymouth

Sailing , not swimming , into the sunse t

ose Pilg rim Fathers and the Mayﬂower stor y play a big part in Plymouth's

heritag e e ocean is the enduring theme. Take to the waves, on an hour-long cruise of Plymouth Sound Let Plymouth Boat Trips show you the modern navy at De vonport, the not-somodern naval batter y on Drakes Island, the promontor y of Plymouth Hoe, and the beaut y of De von and Cornish coasts.

ose same Plymouth Boat Trips operate a net work of handy local foot ferries. It’s a short sea-hop to the National Trust-maintained Mount Edg cumbe. is impressive stately home, set in a g rade one listed estate that includes the charming villag e of Cremyll It takes minutes by boat, ag es by bus It’s also on the Cornish side of the water, so it’s a bonus count y when you visit

From the Edg cumbe / Cremyll landing stag e, it’s

hardly a circumnavig ation to somewhere Sir Francis mig ht recog nise. Behold the Georg ian splendor of Royal William Yard An impressive collection of four and fivestore y former naval building s For “impressive”, read : imposing ly hug e. All g rade-II listed and making the distinctly different Stonehouse neig hbourhood into Plymouth’s most desirable destination e dockyard has been tastefully repurposed into a rela xed, replenished, re vitalised dock, harboring treat-yourself boutiques, commercial offices with views to make overtime a pleasure, and ocean-view apartments (shhh - lucky people live here) Oh, and there are g reat restaurants. Mig ht we tempt you into Hook and L ine, to name but one Host and owner, Ste ven Pag e, welcomes g uests personally, for a beg uiling menu of

seafood so fresh, it virtually jumps from the bay to your plate Grouper - and g roupfriendly. When your jolly hearties berth themselves in the ubiquitously seafaring surrounding s, the y may recog nise a few faces from earlier voyag es e skippers from Plymouth Boat Trips make this their dr y dock of choice Not only is it Plymouth’s self-proclaimed ﬁnest rum bar (we tend to concur) but Ste ven, in

addition to owning t wo other equally appealing eateries in town, is also rear admiral of Plymouth Boat Trips.

Seen from at sea , there’s a collag e of architectural st yles along the Plymouth skylinelike stepping stones throug h time. Plymouth has stood ﬁrm ag ainst wars and wouldbe invaders for centuries, but that reputation has been earned in blood and treasure

It was from here that the ﬂeet sailed to thwart the Spanish Armada (1588 and all that). From later years, spy out all those the Napoleonic fortiﬁcations, but also, pay heed to the most recent of failed invasions, but also to the scars le by an aerial bombardment that Plymouth endured in 1940 and 1941 - a Blitz long er e ven than London’s. From that shattering blow, this stout cit y of more than a quarter of a million souls has resolutely risen

Sti ll, the transformation continues

e steel and g lass of the Drake Shopping Centre sits along side the neo -classical facade of the civic librar y, which is now something e ven more erudite - the wonderful Box .

e Box is fresh So fresh,

this civic jewel of g alleries, museum, cafe, librar y and nautical heritag e only just opened post-pandemic Mayflower celebrations put on hold, e Box has hosted temporar y treasures from the National Galler y and more ere are also permanent tast y treasures in the g round floor cafe, where “local” and “in-house” are always the flavours of the day.

e leg ac y is a post-war cit y centre that epitomises the thinking of the modern ag e, as seen from the ﬁies and sixties, writ larg e in the coalition of austerit y and modernit y, built on a human scale. Plymouth emerg ed as a liveable, lovable example of how Britain imag ined itself in the far future of the 70s. Surely, among all the storms of man and nature, faced by this South West redoubt, recover y and rebuilding was their ﬁnest hour

Ge tting there and g etting info

230 miles and a world due west of London You could re verse the Mayﬂower, and sail into Plymouth’s maritime terminal, but chances are your passeng ers will arrive by land cruise e A38 De von Expressway covers the last fort y miles from the end of the M5 at Exeter, skirting Dartmoor all along the way By train, the old Friar y station in the docks is long g one, but Great Western trains still run frequently from London Padding ton, and take in that striking seaside stretch on the way. CrossCountr y makes direct destinations accessible, from as far away as Aberdeen Just in case you ask, the airport has been closed for over a decade - Exeter and Newquay airports are both within ﬁ y miles

Contacts and more at www.visitplymo uth.c o.uk .

Selected L inks :

Get your h ead down at e Moxy : www.marriott.com /enus/ho tels/ nqypo -moxy-plymouth/

Get ﬁshy at: www nationalaquarium co uk

Get all Pilgrim Fathers : www mayﬂowermuseum co uk

Get at sea : www plym outhb oattrips co uk

Get stuﬀed : www th eh ookandline plymouth .co.uk

Get arty and cultural : www th eb oxplymouth com

Get ever yth ing else at www visitplymouth co uk

Pictures visit Plymouth

A Dawdle to Dartmo or Train buffs will know all about the proposals to reopen the Okehampton to Bere Alston line, as a foil to the exposed coastal section at Dawlish, but here’s a trip you can take rig ht now e local ser vice from Plymouth meanders up the truly spectacular Tamar Valle y Get a unique view under the spectacular Tamar Bridg e along the way Bere Alston is just t went y-five minutes away. e tracks stop abruptly, but carr y on, striking out across Dartmoor. Walkers especially will love the opportunit y to tick off a bucket list destination - for the price of a suburban train ticket For less of a hike - the walk to the next station back down the line - Bere Ferreshas the added attraction of a heritag e railway collection to admire and a countr y pub at each end, also worth admiring

Plymouth Boat Trips

Surrounded by the breathtaking scener y of the De von and Cornwall coast, and with so much to see and do, Plymouth oﬀers the perfect destination for g roup tours, and there’s no better way to experience this spectacular Ocean Cit y than on the water with Plymouth Boat Trips.

Plymouth’s larg est operator of pleasure cruises and foot ferries, Plymouth Boat Trips provides a tailored, VIP ser vice for coach and g roup tours, available to book easily online Choose from a variet y of river cruises, harbour tours, and foot ferr y ser vices to Cornwall and

historic Drakes Island, known as the jewel of Plymouth Sound. Plymouth Boat Trips’ fleet of spacious cruise boats are fitted to the hig hest standard Desig nated seating areas and safe upper decks mean passeng ers can enjoy the mag nificent views in comfort, while fully licensed bars on board ser ve a variet y of hot and cold drinks and snacks

One-hour Harbour Cruise e skipper provides an informative commentar y onboard this scenic cruise that passes some of Plymouth’s iconic landmarks including , Smeaton’s Tower and Drake’s Island, before heading for the River Tamar and the Royal Naval Dockyard, where the mig ht y warships and nuclear submarines await !

Calstoc k Crui se

An idyllic four-hour sailing that explores the natural beaut y of the Tamar Valle y, leading to the picturesque

Cornish villag e of Calstoc k .

Leaving the busy cit y behind this cruise passes the Royal Naval Dockyard and Brunel's famous bridg e, taking in the breath-taking sig hts of the Tamar Valle y, Carg reen,

Wier Quay, Pentille, Holton and Cotehele.

River Ye alm Cru ise

A peaceful t wo -hour cruise that takes a scenic meander be yond Plymouth Sound to the tranquil waters of the Yealm River, on the South De von Heritag e Coast Situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beaut y and with the chance of spotting some wonderful local wildlife, the Yealm Estuar y is also a site of Special Scientiﬁc Interest and a European Special Area of Conser vation

Breakwater Cruise

A chance to see the Plymouth Breakwater up close, a feat of eng ineering that protects Plymouth Sound from the force of the ocean is varied cruise also passes Garrison Fort Bovisand, Jennycliff Bay and Mount Batten, before returning to the Barbican and offers another g reat opportunit y to catch a g limpse of the mag nificent, local marine wildlife of the De von and Cornwall coast. Plymouth Boat Trips offers a warm welcome and so many ways for g roups to explore Plymouth Sound and be yond, what will your g roup travel adventure be ?

Set sail with Plymouth Boat Trips, the South West’s premier cruising and ferry company. We o er a variety of boat trips, per fect for groups, tour operators and couriers.

1-HR SCENIC HARBOUR CRUISE

Cruise along the beautiful Devon & Cornish coasts, to where the mighty warships & nuclear submarines await!

DAILY: 11:00, 12:30, 14:00 & 15:30

C ALSTOCK, BREAKWATER & RIVER YEALM CRUISES

Experience historic landmarks, breathtaking scenery and wildlife on board our longer daytime cruises.

CREMYLL, ROYAL WILLIA M YARD & C AWSAND FERRY SERVICES

Mount Edgcumbe & Cremyll Quay - picturesque country park, with historic house and gardens

Royal William Yard - enjoy the eateries, shops bars and markets at this vibrant waterside location. Cawsand & Kingsand - Brimming with quaint Cornish charm & sandy beaches.

Dedicated Events Team - On hand to tailor your trip to your group’s needs.

Group discount rates available! FREE Parking – Show us your ticket and we will reimburse the cost of coach parking Optional Extras – Local Cream Tea and Cor nish Pasties available onboard.