Group Travel Today Magazine by Beau Media

Today

Volume 14 Issue 2 2021

South West Cathedrals Hertitage Railways

Planning 2021 Group Getaways Special Feature

Sicily

Plus Johnsons Journal, news and don’t miss Tom’s tours...

shutterstock Trinacria

Travel Group

NEDERLAND

VISIT THE BIERKASTEEL, THE MOST MODERN BREWERY IN EUROPE !

ANTWERPEN

OOSTENDE BRUGGE

GENT VEURNE DUNKERQUE IZEGEM

KORTRIJK

LILLE

DOORNIK

BRUSSEL

BELGIË

FRANCE

Open Tuesday to Saturday. Tour with guide at 10h30, 14h30 and 16h30. Price: €12 p.p. guide included. Group meals on request. Beer tasting (2 x 25 cl) and a beer praline. Free bottle of specialty beer (75 cl). Read more on www.bierkasteel.be.

Brouwerijstraat 1 - 8870 Izegem - info@bierkasteel.be - www.bierkasteel.be - Visits & Events: +32 (0)51/62 27 30

Comment Hoorah, we have a road map with dates (still data dependent) however we are through the first few date’s no more shielding, we can once again meet up with loved ones and friends, still a little limited but such a lovely way to start spring, never again will I take the small things for granted.

Group Travel Today

Contents

In addition, the resumption of UK cruises from May onwards is great for those who want to explore what Britain has to offer from a different perspective, international travel is set to resume from the 17th of May, unfortunately our friends on the continent are experiencing a 3rd wave, so this may not be possible, we wish them well.

Everyday there is more good news, as a country we are still doing fantastically well with the vaccination programme unbelievably by April 1st almost 32 million people had been vaccinated (no April Fool) and on track to complete the first tranche by the 15th.

Confidence is growing with many theatres both in London and across the country announcing returning dates and booking instructions and many other attractions sending press releases inviting us to return both individually and in groups, there is an air of optimism across the travel industry, in particular for a Great British Staycation boom, cottages .com have reported that a month before the glorious 12th two thirds of their coastal properties had been booked, which is amazing so early in the season.

News

Agto

Groups Welcome

Tom’s Tours -Holland

Johnsons Journal

Special Feature - Sicily

Planning 2021

Group Getaways

Staycations

Heritage Railways

South West

Cathedrals

Houses of Historical Interest

This brings me on to the subject of vaccine passports, which has proved highly contentious, with many MPs on both sides of the isle wholly against the idea, but many travel and hospitality companies in favour, we will have to wait and see the outcome of what I’m sure will be many discussions both domestically and internationally. In the meantime, I would urge you to get your group out and about, it’s the only way we can support our industry, and enjoy ourselves at the same time, why wouldn’t you? Keep safe Nigel

A windmill for salt production in sunset with the island of Mozia near Trapani in the west part of Sicily. Front Cover - shutterstock Trinacria Page 3 - shutterstock voe

With the current Covid 19 pandemic evolving situation please check with attractions to confirm if any restriction will apply

Beau Business Media Group Ltd Publishing House, Windrush, Ash Lane, Birmingham, B48 7TS Tel: 0121 445 6961 Fax: 0121 445 4436 email: beaubusinessmedia@gmail.com Sales: Emma L Middleton Brett James Kirby Tel: 0121 445 6961 Contributors: Pauline Johnson, Simon Walton Design: Alexina Whittaker & Paul Hemsley Production: Laura Collins Managing Director: Nigel Whittaker

News

Group Travel Today

Riviera Travel - Book next year’s group holiday with confidence

cancellation protection. Discover the latest new tour to the British Isles collection:

With all 2022 dates and departures now available for Riviera Travel tours and cruises, plus new additions, plan ahead with flexible booking options and Covid

The Jewel of the Channel Islands. With its rolling hills, coastal coves and poignant past, experience Jersey from all angles on this fascinating tour.

What’s more, we have extended our flexible booking policy to include 2022 holidays. Book a group holiday with us this spring and you can enjoy the flexibility to change your booking before travel, with no fees and no questions asked. This allows your new

2022 booking to be amended for free up to 30 June 2021. Plus, book a group of 10 or more to receive up to 10% commission. Visit rivieragroups.co.uk

The View from the Shard Re-opening 19 May 2021 On Wednesday 19 May 2021 The View from The Shard, will, in accordance with Government guidance, be re-opening to visitors following its closure in response to the third national lockdown made necessary by the Coronavirus pandemic. On re-opening the top priority is the safety of all their staff and customers and as such they will provide a safe and secure environment for everyone. There is no reason why all their visitors cannot have a very enjoyable, memorable and safe experience at the venue. They have plenty of space including their open air Skydeck which is the highest roof terrace in

encouraged to book in advance to benefit from their first choice of date and minimise waiting and contact.

London and they will be tightly managing numbers by reducing capacity sold for each arrival time. Capacity at the venue has been reduced by nearly 50% to ensure a safe environment and allocated arrival times will ensure a steady and controlled flow of visitors. All visitors are being

Tickets and inventory are gradually being added to their website, B2B booking portals and API connections. You may recommence selling their tickets as soon as

they become available. However, they do ask that all customers are advised to visit the COVID-19 information page prior to their visit to familiarise themselves with the latest Government advice and safety measures.

www.theviewfromtheshard.com

Jersey Boys Returns to London The beloved Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning smash hit musical JERSEY BOYS returns to London’s West End, opening at the new multi-million pound reinstated Trafalgar Theatre, with performances from 28 July and an opening night of 10 August 2021. Performances through Christmas 2021 are on sale and JERSEY BOYS is now booking until 2 January 2022. JERSEY BOYS is written by Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, with music by Bob Gaudio and lyrics by Bob Crewe.

Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony and Olivier Awardwinning, true-life phenomenon, JERSEY BOYS. They were just four guys from New Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect onstage, off stage it was a very different story—a story that has made them an international sensation all over again. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s too good

to be true. The show is packed with their hits, including Beggin’, Sherry, Walk Like A Man, December, 1963 (Oh What a Night), Big Girls Don’t Cry, My Eyes Adored You, Let’s Hang On (To What We’ve Got), Bye Bye Baby, Can’t Take My

Eyes Off You, Working My Way Back to You, Fallen Angel, Rag Doll and Who Loves You. www.jerseyboyslondon.com

AGTO MATTERS

AGTO – helping GTOs bounce back better Lockdown has probably had everyone thinking back to happier days, perhaps childhood when all we seemed to need was a good story and all seemed well with the world. Not that we knew too much about the world. In an era long before the internet, we learnt about the world by watching the team from the BBC’s Blue Peter head off on their annual expedition. Perhaps we glanced through holiday brochures. If we were very fortunate, we would find ourselves sitting in the family car as our parents headed over the Channel to exotic Calais, and beyond. Today, everything and anything a GTO needs to

know about planning a trip is available at the click of a mouse, or a tap on our phones or tablets. But that only tells part of the story. Wendy Hartley-Scarff, chief executive of the Association of Group Travel Organisers, explains. “Talking with AGTO members I find myself learning more and more about the group travel industry,” she says. “I understand the bigger picture, but the finer points of organising a trip, and some of the pitfalls faced by GTOs would normally pass me by. So I really enjoy hearing more about all of this from our members. During lockdown many GTOs have found it beneficial to engage in online chats or watching destination webinars. From the comfort of their own home, GTOs have been able to discover more about many of the UK’s popular destinations, and some less well known. Visitor attractions have taken GTOs on behindthe-scenes tours, without the GTO having to leave home. There have been opportunities to listen to the experiences of other

group travel organisers. The social media networks, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and elsewhere, have been awash with photos of smiling people enjoying themselves on trips taken before the pandemic hit. But now that lockdown is easing, and day trips are starting up again, what will that mean to the online experience? Will GTOs want to continue to meet online, or will they, as I suspect, want to go back to how it was, meeting up with their groups and friends? In my opinion, the sheer convenience of online activity will mean that sitting in front of a laptop, PC, tablet or phone is likely to continue. But only so far. Before lockdown, AGTO played a key role, as the UK’s largest independent, professional membership organisation supporting and representing the interests of individuals who organise travel for groups, in providing GTOs both with a wide range of information and opportunities to get together. During lockdown the

AGTO website (agto.co.uk) has been updated. Today, members can find out about unique offers available from Associate (supplier) members. There are fam trips to sign up to, as well as legal help and other guidance to help make the job of organising a group trip easier. The AGTO Magazine, which we normally publish four times a year, not only carries features about places to visit and things to do, but also carries firsthand reports from members of our regional branches. It’s all about spreading the word for the benefit of the whole group travel sector. It’s a really great way for members to find out what worked, and what didn’t, information that may come in very handy when planning a day out. As travel starts to reopen again, GTOs will be looking for inspiration and ideas, and AGTO will be there for you. I encourage you to go to our website, and see how together, we can all bounce back better.” www.agto.co.uk

AGTO plays an important role in helping GTOs plan their day trips

Groups AlwaysWelcome

Group Travel Today

Take a look at these venues and attractions you’ll be sure to find a great reception for you and your group, they can’t wait to welcome you back.

Britain, Sausmarez Manor hosts a galaxy of interesting pictures, furniture, works of art and tapestries (early 16th Century) from almost continuous occupation by the same family for over 800 years. Fully guided tours are available at group rates which compliment the setting of a lawned formal garden and lush Subtropical Garden with a variety of Palms, Tree Ferns, Ginger Lilies, 100s of Camellias, Bamboos, rare Cyclamen, Angels Trumpets, Unusual Helebores, Giant Arums etc with a sprinkling of interesting sculptures from around the globe. It is pesticide free so abounds in bird and wildlife. Picton Castle An enchanting 13th century castle surrounded by a spectacular 40 acre RHS Partner Garden, Picton Castle and Gardens is full of surprises for all the family. Take a tour of the castle, discover its rich history and admire the elegant rooms with their magnificent fireplaces and fine works of art, including the controversial ‘Picton Renoir which was recently featured on the BBC’s series of Fake or Fortune. The stunning gardens contain rare trees and plant collections from around the world and and include one of the largest and most magnificent rhododendrons in the world. Shady woodlands, an exotic jungle garden and colourful walled garden packed with medicinal herbs and Mediterranean flowers, thrive alongside living willow dens, family trails and an engaging adventure playground. The wildlife is abundant and there's plenty of space to run

or simply relax on a garden seat and enjoy the tranquility.

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.

Picton is also home to The Welsh Owl Garden & Zoo, The Mansion of Mystery Escape Rooms and also boasts a delightful art gallery, a Lawnmower Museum, an exceptional gift shop, plants for sale and Maria’s@Picton – a hugely popular Courtyard Restaurant and Deli. Open all year round, an impressive schedule of events complements this award-winning castle and garden for all seasons. Dogs on leads are always welcome.

“Regarded as the finest example of Queen Anne Colonial Archtecture in

Tel: 014437 751326 E: info@pictoncastle.co.uk www.pictoncastle.co.uk Sausmarez Manor 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

Other attractions include, working Copper Smith a, Coffee Museum, a 9 hole pitch and Putt course and the happiest Tearoom/Garden in the island.” With ample parking Contact Peter on 01481 235571 www.artparks.co.uk

PEMBROKESHIRE’S AWARD WINNING CASTLE & GARDENS

whitecliffscountry DOVER • DEAL • SANDWICH

40 ACRES OF RHS PARTNER GARDENS 13th CENTURY CASTLE QUALITY GIFT SHOP WELSH OWL GARDEN & ZOO ART GALLERIES RESTAURANT & DELI ESCAPE ROOMS Special Tours for Groups Historic Dover KENT

Maritime Deal

Medieval Sandwich KENT

visit • discover • explore 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

DOVER

DEAL

SANDWICH

PEMBROKESHIRE SA62 4AS 01437 751326 WWW.PICTONCASTLE.CO.UK EMAIL INFO@PICTONCASTLE.CO.UK REG. CHARITY NO: 519693

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. Also the luxuriant Wild Sub Tropical Garden and Sculpture Park crammed with rare and unusual plants and trees and sculpture from around the world.

Attractive Group Rates. Contact Peter on 01481 235571 or peter@artparks.co.uk , www.artparks.co.uk , Sausmarez Manor , Guernsey, GY4 6SG.

Terrific Tours

Group Travel Today

by Tom’s Travel Tours

Tom van der Leij is an Amsterdam born and raised photographer, travel editor and travel consultant. Tom's first loves are photography and traveling, and his vivid photos and stories are widely published in diverse travel magazines. Every fall and winter, he organizes private adventurous trips for couples and families to South Africa— his second homeland. He also offers photography workshops and photoshoots in and around Amsterdam, including in the Dutch tulip fields. See: tomvanderleij.com In 2013, Tom co-founded Toms Travel Tours, a professional high-quality private guiding company based in Amsterdam. The company organizes custommade tours throughout The Netherlands and Belgium. Among the many tour options, travellers can spend a couple of hours with an art historian in one of the main museums, cycle around greater Amsterdam and find off-the-beaten-track spots, explore the genuine Dutch countryside, or go on a unique mud walk.

See:www.tomstraveltours.com

Quotes: “I’m a born and raised Amsterdammer. While I love to travel to exotic locations abroad, I also deeply appreciate the small things in my own little country. I love to show my foreign guests the beauty of Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands.” “It doesn’t sound appealing to many people: walking for hours in mud up to your knees to a distant island. But every person I know that has ever done it agrees that it’s the best Dutch nature activity there is. It almost feels like you’re playing God; walking over the bottom of the sea, the dry Wadden Sea (UNESCO world heritage site) to a beautiful island in the north.”

What to expect on a mud tour?

depending on the tide and weather.

Walk over the dry Wadden Sea (at low tide). Eat fresh oysters on the spot.

June 2021 mud walk

Cycle around a quaint, picturesque Wadden island Get professional photographs and learn about photography

What is a mud walk? It’s basically as it sounds. You walk from a location on or near the Dutch mainland across the Wadden Sea at low tide to a point on the other side of the sea, which can either be an island shore or a boat that takes you to the final destination.

There are different mud walk routes and they all start in the northern province of Friesland and Groningen. My favourite route is to Ameland island where you walk from the Dutch mainland to the island. You need to be between 1465 years old, in good physical condition, able to walk in thick (sometimes slippery!) mud for approximately 4 to 5 hours. You need special surf shoes to protect your feet against the shells on the bottom. The season runs from the end of May until the end of September. We can also do shorter routes of about 2-3 hours, possibly as a day tour from Amsterdam –

Want to join a special long mud walk to Schiermonnikoog from 18-20 June 2021? This island does not allow cars, has the widest beaches of Europe and is a national park; it’s considered the most beautiful nature area of The Netherlands. You will stay in a Fawlty Towers look-a-like hotel; nothing pretentious, but definitely a pleasant atmosphere. For June, there are a limited number of places available. To plan a mud walk for another time period, please get in touch. Something else? You can also book a family trip with Toms Travel Tours to the north, focussing on Friesland, Schiermonnikoog and the North Holland province—without the mud walk! www.mudwalks.com Contact: reservations@tomstraveltours.com All pictures copyright Tom van der Leij

Group Travel Today

Johnsons Journal

The continuing, amazing adventures of Pauline & Ken, on their travels

start – we have picked up a couple of bookings from people who couldn’t make the previous date. Numbers are though slightly below the original minimum number that the tour was costed on, but we have plenty of time to resell. Our April Cornwall 2021 trip is now in 2022 and a couple of weeks earlier. Such is the reputation of Brend Bros. Hotels that, whilst we lost one or two from the original booking, they have all been resold. There was a very small increase in price by the hotel but no objections by anyone.

Deer in the Rockies When I last wrote we had nearly forty members with deposits and booking forms ready to send to Success Tours for Puglia this September. Unfortunately it was not to be. Some gut instinct, which I ignore at my peril, stopped me sending in the forms straight away. When Jo Blair phoned a couple of days before we were due to pay the non refundable deposit that would have secured the flight seats and guaranteed the cost, I discovered we were both of the same opinion. Noises being made by government and the rising number of COVID19 cases in Europe at the time convinced us we would be best looking at a Plan B and contracting the hotel for September 2022 with, hopefully, similar dates. Luckily all those booked agreed. Bookings won’t start until July/August this year for next September but everyone has already asked to be given first refusal, with a two week window to book before the details go out to the membership as a whole.

earlier for me. Like Jo, his opinion was that this year’s tour was unlikely to be able to go ahead. Plan B is for July 2022 and whilst we lost about ten people due to the proximity of the start of the school summer holidays – we just get home before they

The next day Andy from Norman Allen Group Travel contacted me regarding our Northern Ireland trip at the end of May/ beginning of June. He had already put in place our Plan B, contacting the hotel a couple of months

We are still hoping that our July and August trips to County Durham and Essex will go ahead, even if we have to tweak the itineraries slightly, but with so much disappointment month after month we aren’t raising our hopes too high. Our June day trip to Sonning Mill Dining Theatre to see

96 of the group on board New Orleans boat in Henley on Thames

Group Travel Today

House mural in Quebec

‘Busman’s Honeymoon’ has been deferred again, this time to next year. I was told that the Mill were putting on an ABBA concert instead on our date, and that it would be compliant with all the socially distanced ruling in the restaurant and theatre. 32 of the group decided they still wanted a day out and hopes are high for those lucky few. Nearly everybody has again rescheduled for the play, especially as Brian Blessed is directing. The Macclesfield Silk Museum and Paradise Silk Mill day trip date was just inside the May 17th ‘road map’ date. I had hoped, as we had kept numbers down, to be able to reschedule fairly soon afterwards. What I hadn’t taken into account is that, having been closed for a year, the place has to be thoroughly cleaned, and the looms checked, to make sure they work before they can

June 2022. Everyone had been given credit notes by the company, which needed to be allocated by 31st March 2021. Some people had put theirs towards our Cornwall trip, others had hoped to put them toward this years Puglia trip. Only a small number – there were 102 people booked in total for 2020 – decided for various reasons to wait for the refunds. I had let everyone know the new dates straight away, and enough people had expressed their intention to go, that at the end of February I was confident of a decent number of bookings. Easyjet announced their flights from Luton to Milan very early. They were such good times there became

open. We also heard that our trip to see ‘Pretty Woman’ in London is on its third change of date and this time the production has moved to The Savoy Theatre. Groups are being booked in from 6th September. With so many rearranged concert and theatre bookings it looks as if October to December will be very full. September itself seems to have a high percentage of the group either on rescheduled cruises or taking short self-catering breaks in the UK. I am very hopeful that our two day trips in July to Rodmarton Manor near Tetbury will go ahead, although I have deliberately kept the numbers per booking low enough to be able to easily comply with any social distancing rules.

for many years is getting the Tour Operator to book the hotel and dates I want for a particular tour anything up to two years in advance. Once that is done there is then plenty of time to do more research. 15 to 18 months out the Tour Operator and I start the planning. The dates, along with when booking will commence are shown in our newsletters. No costs are given at that point. Those members of the group who really want to go put their names on an ‘interest’ list. This helps with room allocation breakdown – especially rooms with walk-in showers or upgraded rooms where available, e.g. sea view or superior rooms. Everyone on that list gets

Puppet shop in Weinegroda

somewhat of a rush to get the forms back quickly so we could secure the seats. Our other alternatives would have been from Gatwick or Heathrow and were likely to necessitate pre-flight overnights at an airport hotel. This would have been at an extra cost of approximately £60 per person. With Success Tours’ staff working from home I had to scan in over 50 forms, plus credit notes, to email to Success before they could book the flights. But we did it, and we have thirty-one people on each of two tours booked. 2022 is looking full now so I do hope we can go to Durham and Essex this year as there is no space to fit them in next year and I really don’t want to start looking at 2023 just yet.

On a much more positive note, in March 2020 we had agreed new dates for the two cancelled June 2020 Imagna Valley, Italy tours for

Spring in York

One thing I have been doing

advance notice and a twoweek period to book, as with Puglia next year. It makes the sales process so much easier and, conversely, if there is very little interest I can pull the tour before it gets too far and many man-hours wasted in the planning. I am going to leave you with some more photos of my favourite places and hope that all your booked tours for 2021 and 2022 can go ahead and we can get back to visiting fantastic places in the UK, if not abroad, soon. Rekindling of friendships formed over the past years whilst travelling together is what my group are desperate to restart, along with our bi-monthly socials.

Group Travel Today

Sicily Surprisingly Sizzling

Chances are, it’s not the first island that comes to mind when tasked with naming top Mediterranean destinations. Yet, Simon Walton says Sicily is the largest of them all. A verdant landfall, further south and less travelled than the Balearics.

Group Travel Today

shutterstock Tupungato

If you have three legs, you’ll fit in just fine. Like the Manx flag, the Sicilian civic emblem has three. Handy, if you’re wading ashore like those fully independent American travellers in 1943. No fighting on the beaches now. Actually, there wasn’t any back then either. It’s almost as if the default Sicilian welcome survives in any circumstances - even the Second World War. It’s also probably the only thing that hasn’t changed since then, for this, the twentieth and most southerly municipality of Italy. Nature benign and boisterous Mountains, blue skies in wintertime, and five million people. There though, the similarities with Scotland end. Unlike cold Caledonia, it’s smokin’ hot for sure -and that’s just the caldera of Etna, Europe’s most famous and constantly grumbling volcano. Currently 10,992 feet at its peak, Etna is a moving feast. Like Cher’s tattoos, her peak could be anywhere on those lava smooth slopes right now. This smouldering icon of the island’s natural heritage is celebrated worldwide, but it’s far from the only blooming marvel. The more verdant north of the island is host to a string of national parks. The sweeping 40,000 acres of Madonie Regional Natural Park, and the even

bigger Parco dei Nebrodi are wonders to behold. That ashy soil pays dividends in abundance. Both are easily accessible from Palermo and Catania. Tours are popular, and invariably include village and nature stops.

weather forecast: occasional red hot rocks from the sky, merging to give longer periods of eruption, may require more than sun block. Etna is one of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites on Sicily, and obviously noted for its natural heritage. It’s a measure of the natural and cultural significance of Sicily. By comparison, there are just 31 such sites in Great Britain, an island eight times larger. The volcanic archipelago off the north coast, collectively known as the Aeolian Islands, are another World Heritage site, and a popular excursion. Around 200,000 visitors make the short sea trip annually.

The fires of hell, the respite of heaven For the vulcanologists, or just the plain adventurous, there are a plethora of Mount Etna excursions. Go your own way, from hiking on foot, to leather-bound 4x4 luxury. Don’t forget your camera sunsets are particularly sought after. Also, check the

The five remaining sites are all inscribed for their cultural significance, including the Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto, in the Ionian south east corner of the island. Noto Cathedral, in the small town of the same name, is for hardcore Catholics. Hard hat Catholics too. The central part of the church collapsed Along with Italian and Sicilian, other languages spoken on the island by significant populations include French, German, Arabic and Romanian.

shutterstock Vadym Lavra

shutterstock leoks

Group Travel Today

shutterstock Frog Dares

in 1990, after a long period of neglect - and the occasional earth tremor. Since rebuilt, it reopened in 2007. It’s said to rival Notre Dame in every way - except in flammability. Religious observance is very much a part of everyday life on Sicily - especially if that day is Sunday. Even in predominantly Catholic Italy, Sicily is home to the largest opera house in Italy. Built in Palermo in 1897, the Teatro Massimo also features in a famous scene in The Godfather, Part Three. Sicilians speak many languages. Sicily stands out for pious observance. That said, there is no preponderance of prudishness. Sicily is as liberal and relaxed as can be, and perhaps even more laid back than the resorts on the other side of the Straits of Messina. Centuries of Sicily If the ancient is the forte of your forty, you can rococo around the ruins and archaeological digs. Sites here date back 12,000 years and more. One of the oldest seats of civilisation, Sicily has had twelve millennia to perfect a welcome you cannot refuse. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans - Normans even. All have made Sicily their own. Not to mention the Moors, the Byzantines, and even an emirate at one time. Arab and Muslim cultures have woven their part in the island tapestry. You could spend less of a holiday, more of a lifetime, studying the varied influences that permeate this uniquely diverse culture. Much more than pizza and grappa, Sicily is no Italian stereotype. A specifically Sicilian take on arts and culture, make the sights and sounds, tastes and scents of the island worthy of deeper discourse. Putting a shine on tourism is a top priority for

Sicily. Whether that means subsuming the key cultural attractions to take advantage of the benign beach climate remains to be seen. One thing is for sure though, the thousands of years of historic places, like Greek-inspired Syracuse, will remain as popular as ever, for all the millennia of life the embrace.

Wenders and a dirty dozen more. Never mind set jetting though. Be a part of the script of mountainsides and olive groves. Write in a scene for the winding village roads and cobbled streets, as the island trains rumble into Augusta as the sun rises on the old town’s defensive Castello Svevo - or capture sunset at Trapani in the west where the ferries depart for Sardinia and Corsica. Your only directorial dilemma is to decide - do you want to play a supporting or starring role in your sizzling Sicilian adventure.

Sicily’s staring role Will your party storm the beaches in a more friendly invasion than that of 1943? Probably not.They’ll arrive by air, like the vast majority of international visitors. Yet, they may find the voyage from the mainland a unique experience. There have been plans for a fixed link from Calabria to Messina for almost as long as there have been people on Sicily. For now though, there’s the unusual experience of a train ferry. One for the enthusiasts for sure.

The island is surrounded by three different seas: the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Mediterranean Sea and the Ionian Sea.

www.sicily.co.uk

Interesting Facts About Mount Etna The towering volcano of Mount Etna dominates the skyline of the island of Sicily. As Europe’s tallest volcano, it is also one of the most active in the world. The name Etna means “I burn.” Coming from the Greek word Aitne, Etna’s name can be translated to mean “I burn”. In Greek mythology, Aitna, daughter of Ouranos (Heaven) and Ge (Earth) was the goddess of the volcano.

Despite the reputation, the only shooting you’ll encounter on Sicily will be from the barrel of a cinematic film camera. Pretty as a picture, Sicily takes to the movies like Tiziana Lodato and Sophia Loren before her. Smouldering like those screen goddesses, and most famously as the canvas for scenes from the Godfather, Sicily has inspired native directors, from Antonioni to Rossellini, and the rich backdrops have attracted international attention from Coppola,

Mount Etna erupts on average once a year Before 2001, Mount Etna erupted on average once every two years, but it has since increased. In Sicily, it is known as Mungibeddu Mount Etna can be referred to as a number of different names. In mainland Italy, it is not unusual to hear of the volcano being called Mongibello or Montebello, which translates to “beautiful mountain”. The biggest eruption killed 20,000 people On March 8th, 1669, Mount Etna began to rumble, producing gas from the top of the towering landmark. Despite this, the inhabitants of Sicily remained calm, ignoring any signs that the volcano was likely to erupt

shutterstock christopherbrownphotos

Group Travel Today

Planning 2021

Some say failure to plan is planning to fail, we say you and your group can’t fail to enjoy these destinations. For over 40 years, the UK has relied on them to provide the best domestic holidays with clean, comfortable hotel accommodations and firstrate coach transportation. Whether you’re going on a family holiday or a couplesonly getaway, you won’t be disappointed with their friendly customer service and exceptional travel value.

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 mouthwatering 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. 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. Open every day, all year round, the traditional

Why not arrange a group holiday and enjoy a well organised break with your extended family, club or society?

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.

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. For full details and special offers visit www.daishs.com Kew Gardens

They can tailor-make a coach holiday to any of their hotels on whichever dates best suit you.

Set in 326 acres of beautiful grounds containing the world’s most diverse

Love Fish and Chips…

Love Bizzie Lizzie’s

Coach Parties Welcome

Winners of many awards, including Fish & Chip Shop of the year, the restaurants’ success is down to the talented team who are constantly tweaking recipes, adding to the menu and improving the service to provide an unbeatable dining experience time after time.

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

‘Click and Collect’ now available at Swadford Street Now Available at Swadford Street Restaurant and Takeaway Gluten Free Fish and Chips cooked in Sun ower Oil Accredited by Coeliac UK

Daish’s UK Coach Holidays Where Would You Like to Go?

High Street Car Park, Skipton 01756 794531 Mon-Sun Restaurant and Takeaway 12pm - 8pm

accredited by

Swadford Street, Skipton 01756 701131 Mon-Sun Restaurant 12pm - 8pm Takeaway 12pm - 9pm

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 allinclusive trips to many popular holiday destinations, including Kendal, Blackpool, Bournemouth, Weymouth, Eastbourne, Llandudno, Newquay, Torquay, Eastbourne and the Isle of Wight.

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

N O W 21 NO 20 LE SA

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 10 fantastic hotels spread across 9 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 Isle of Wight Blackpool

facebook.com/daishsholidaysforgroups Newquay

Bournemouth Llandudno

Torquay

Lake District

@daishs4groups Weymouth Scarborough

Group Travel Today

London Stadium Tours

collection of living plants, Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site just 30 minutes from central London. Explore tropical rainforests in the Palm House and marvel at the architecture of the newly restored Temperate House. Discover beautiful botanical art in our galleries and step back in time at Kew Palace – the former summer residence of King George III.

heard at Kew like never before. Sound artist Alex Metcalfe invites you to uncover the unheard inner workings of trees. Stand beneath one of the suspended sound domes in Kew’s incredible Arboretum and listen to the sound of water moving up through the trees. A newly commissioned composition in response to the sounds accompanies the work.

Visit The Hive, a fascinating installation highlighting the plight of the honeybee and The Great Broad Walk borders which contain over 30,000 plants, providing stunning colour from spring through autumn. Secret World of Plants, 1 May – 19 September 2021

Sound artist, beatboxer and composer Jason Singh takes over the Temperate House with a fascinating look at ‘Plants as Composer’. His musical score uses technology to record the ‘voice’ of the plants, creating a beautifully melancholic soundtrack.

Visit Kew Gardens this summer and step into the Secret World of Plants a series of immersive art installations revealing the untold stories of our UK plants and landscapes, which will make you look again at the precious nature of the world around us.

After exploring, rest your feet and take in the beauty of the Gardens from a different perspective on a monumental and playful seating installation by architectural designer Paul Cocksedge. A rippling wave of wood rises to form arches to walk through, and curves under to create spaces for you to sit, lie back and relax. So, come and reconnect with nature this summer, and find out more about the Secret World of Plants.

Explore stunning ‘plantscapes’ by artist Vaughn Bell, six immersive structures that reveal the overlooked plant habitats of the UK. You can pop up through holes within the installations for a unique view of these incredible environments, including meadows, hedgerows, sand dunes and coastal habitats. Elsewhere in the Gardens, you’ll be amazed at the incredible sounds of nature,

London Stadium has been transformed into a multi-use world class venue capable of staging the world’s biggest sporting and music events. It’s already hosted the 2015 Rugby World Cup, the London 2017 World Athletics Championships, the 2019 Major League Baseball London Series, Premier League football, international and Premiership rugby and performers like the Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters, Guns N’ Roses and Beyoncé. To find out what’s on, please visit: www.londonstadium.com

The Stadium sits within Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which boasts several iconic venues open to the public as part of the London 2012 legacy. The ArcelorMittal Orbit, London Aquatics Centre, Lee Valley VeloPark, Copper Box Arena and Lee Valley Hockey and tennis Centre are all within walking distance of the Stadium. You can read more about what’s on and how to visit www.queenelizabetholympic park.co.uk

Discover 10,000 years of history The Isle of Man’s unique stories, heritage and culture are waiting to be explored

Come and visit us!

Secret World of Plants is included in admission. Special rates for groups of 15 or more people are available. All groups must reserve their visit in advance by contacting groups@kew.org

For further information visit 20

Visit the world-famous botanic garden

kew.org/groups groups@kew.org 020 8332 5648

Group Getaways

Group Travel Today

Time to talk travel, these tour operators offer some of the best holidays around, they take the organisation out of Group Travel, so sit back and take the credit wherever your group choose to go. Plan ahead your 2022 group holiday with confidence Riviera Travel know choosing a group holiday is an important decision, so they have the best people in place to make every step of your experience easy and enjoyable – from booking to travel. What’s more, they have extended their flexible booking policy to include 2022 holidays. Book a group holiday with them this spring and you can enjoy the flexibility to change your booking before travel, with no fees and no questions asked. This allows your new 2022 booking to be amended for free up until 30 June 2021. But what new destinations are available for 2022? They ‘re delighted to announce that all their British Isles tours are now on sale for 2022. From the picturesque fishing villages of Cornwall and Yorkshire’s coastal roads to the enchanting Scottish Highlands and Northern Ireland’s maritime heritage, all their holidays promise new opportunities for discovery.

more receive up to 10% back of the total cost. All that’s left to do, is decide where 2022 will take you…

including the Shetland and Orkney islands and the Isles of Scilly. New ship Borealis will be the first of the fleet to set sail, with a three-night scenic ‘Maiden Voyage’ from Liverpool on 5th July, with Bolette to depart on a three-night ‘Maiden Voyage’ from Dover on 16th August.

Call 01283 742322 Visit rivieragroups.co.uk/ groups@rivieratravel.co.uk

Fred. Olsen Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled a brand new ‘Welcome Back’ programme of cruises to showcase the best of the British Isles this summer, with scenic-only cruises and those with ports of call featured aboard its smaller ships.

Peter Deer, Managing Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:

“With this selection of shorter sailings, guests can dip their toes back into cruising and enjoy all that they love about being on board with us, before we all begin to venture further afield again.

“This is an incredibly important milestone for our business, and we can’t wait to welcome our guests on board our new-look fleet this summer.” www.fredolsencruises.com

“We are so excited to be unveiling these new summer cruises today. So often overlooked, our British Isles are home to some of the most wonderful wildlife, and so much spectacular scenery that is best enjoyed from the water.

The 11-cruise programme includes departures from Dover and Liverpool, with scenic sailings taking in the best of the British Isles,

They also have a new itinerary: The Jewel of the Channel Islands. With its rolling hills, coastal coves and poignant past, experience Jersey from all angles. From a base in charming St. Helier, experience this gem of the Channel Islands on a scenic drive of the east, a boat cruise along the west coast, plus visits to the picturesque Samares Manor, historic Jersey War Tunnels, imposing Elizabeth Castle and awardwinning La Mare estate.

What’s more, groups of 10 or

Book a holiday and receive up to 10% commission for groups of 10+ (Quote GTT Magazine when you book)

EUROPEAN LUXURY RIVER CRUISES UK, EUROPEAN & WORLDWIDE ESCORTED TOURS

2022 NOW ON SALE

With industry-leading health and safety practices, flexible booking options and our ‘happiness guarantee’, we will ensure you and your group members have an unforgettable holiday without compromise. All that’s left to do, is decide where 2022 will take you…

Change your booking for FREE up until 30 September 2021*

To find out more, request a brochure or to make a booking

Call 01283 742 322 Visit rivieragroups.co.uk Email groups@rivieratravel.co.uk

r Cr

u i s e s M a rc h 2

For individual holidays, visit rivieratravel.co.uk or call 01283 742 300 Some elements are not commissionable – see RivieraGroups.co.uk for full terms and conditions of the commission and its payment. *Fully flexible booking policy only valid on new bookings made before 30 April 2021 and can only be used once. Changes to 2022 bookings must be made by 30 September 2021. See website for full details.

ABTA No. V4744

Group Travel Today

Serious Staycations

There’s no place like home, there’s no place like home, and not a wicked witch of the north anywhere at these great British locations. Group Travel with HF Holidays HF Holidays is perfect for guided or self-guided walking holidays plus a range of special interest breaks in the UK and abroad. In the UK a group of just 10 or more adults together will enjoy a range of benefits including preferential rates, discounted room upgrades and free places for larger groups.

St Albans With all of us wishing for lockdown to ease and as the weather starts to brighten up, we can’t help but think about where we can go for a change of pace and scenery and with international flights not looking like they will be viable until later in the year, it’s the perfect time to explore our own beautiful countryside and heritage sights. The Cathedral City of St Albans is the perfect destination for staycations located just 20 mins from St Pancras station or just off M1/M25. For the history buffs visit their large green space at Verulanium Park full of Roman history where you can see the ruins or visit their Roman museums, Hypocaust of Ampitheatre or just stroll around their lakes with your camera to snap Swans, Herons and much more. The Uk’s oldest pub Ye Olde Fighting Cocks is just by the entrance so you can grab a drink or some delicious pub grub before wandering up to their Cathedral for a look around and to find out about Britain's first martyr Alban & home of the Alban Bun, much like a hot cross bun! If medieval history is more to your liking, then do not forget their Medieval Clock Tower

There are benefits for both the Group Organiser and the group members. Groups can enjoy the homely comfort of their 17 country houses, all located in prime walking areas with the services of a dedicated account manager to help organise the perfect holiday for your group. If your group is large enough (30+), you may also qualify for sole occupancy in one of their country houses; their largest house can accommodate groups of up to 71.

with 93 steps to some breathtaking views across the town. For more local history then you must visit St Albans Museum & Gallery right in the heart of the city. Royal Charter Markets have been in operation in St Albans for over 900 years and are still operating Wednesdays & Saturdays with a wide variety of goods along with specialist markets on Fridays and Sundays including the very popular Vintage Market, Sustainable & Vegan Markets, and their Artisan & Farmers Markets. St Albans is always bustling with life and colour.

Their Groups Team prides itself on offering top-notch, personal customer service from a free ‘no obligation’

Visit their independent shops in the heritage areas of George St & High St featuring some of the best retail has to offer from boutiques to tailors to jewellery, Fairtrade gifts, artworks, homewares & more – getting hungry? then grab some award-winning food from their many pubs and restaurants – St Albans currently has 49 pubs! What are you waiting for? Come for the day – Comeback & stay for the weekend! www.enjoystalbans.com for more information..

initial consultation to finding out how your holiday went after you get back. They can often add special touches to your break and make adjustments to itineraries to suit your needs. Understanding the complexities of getting a group together, you can also provisionally hold an option on your chosen UK holiday at one of their country houses for up to six weeks consideration period before any deposit payment is due. If your group is heading abroad, a group size of just 8 or more adults makes you eligible for preferential group rates, discounted rooms and more! Get a group of 20 or more together on their European holidays and your group will enjoy an exclusive departure. To organise your next group holiday with HF Holidays, email the team on groups@hfholidays.co.uk or call them on 020 3974 8865.

ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

3 NIGHT GUIDED WALKING GROUP RATE FROM

£235PP* BOOK BY 31 MAY 2021

2022 HOLIDAYS ON SALE NOW If you have a group of 10 or more adults holidaying in the UK, you could qualify for some great group savings and benefits. All we ask is that you have a designated Group Organiser to be the point of contact on behalf of your group.

 1 FREE PLACE IN EVERY 15 ADULTS ON UK HOLIDAYS  17 UK country houses – Exclusive to HF guests  Full Board accommodation – all meals included  Choice of up to three daily walks

 Experienced walking leaders  No single supplement†  Low deposit – from just £75pp

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK

VISIT: HFHOLIDAYS.CO.UK CALL: 020 3974 8875 *Terms and conditions apply, 3 night Self Guided group rate from £235pp is 35% off brochure price, valid at Church Stretton and Dovedale based on two people sharing a ‘Good’ room in January 2022. Book by 31 May 2021. All offers for groups of 10+ are subject to availability. New bookings only. 1 in every 15 in the group go free! Free room upgrade for group organiser. Half-price premium room upgrades for group members. Prices shown are the discounted rates. †Pay no single supplement when you book a single room in any of our UK country houses. Room upgrade supplements may apply. For full terms and conditions please visit hfholidays.co.uk/groups

Heritage Railway’s

Group Travel Today

Here’s a platform for your group to get chuffed and carriaged away, whether you are a knowledgable railway enthusiast or looking for somewhere to visit you’ll be right on track.

restoration projects, and I voted for Welsh Pony!” When the railway re-opens in the Spring, members of the public will be able to visit Lucie in the shed at Grosmont as well as enjoying a day out on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Swanage Railway

PIGLET CELEBRATES AWARD FOR BELOVED STEAM TRAM

it to Grosmont that September.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s Head of Traction and Rolling Stock, Paul Middleton, aka Piglet, is celebrating after the 131year-old Belgian steam tram that he and his brother bought four years ago and restored, has been named the clear winner of the 2021 Heritage Railway Association’s Steam Railway magazine award, attracting over 40% of the votes.

“It was completely by chance really,” says Piglet. “I’d actually gone over to Middleton Railway to look at another locomotive. While there, I saw Lucie and asked, ‘What’s that strange thing then?’ and they said: ‘You can buy it off us if you want’.”

Tramways de l’Est de Bruxelles No. 8, better known as Lucie, was built in 1890 in the eastern province of Liege, Belgium. Outshopped as Works No. 1625, it was one of 352 ‘Type IV’ 0-4-0VBTs built by the firm between 1883 and 1949.

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.

He adds: “At first I knew nothing about its history but was blown away by this unique looking locomotive and I thought: ‘I would like to restore this locomotive as it would look amazing running along the line at the NYMR’.”

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

Now the restoration is complete, Piglet has been invited by the Musée du Transport Urbain Bruxellois (Brussels Tram Museum) to take Lucie over for the museum’s 40th anniversary in 2022, returning it to its ‘birthplace’ for the first time since 1897.

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. 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. Full details of their services, timetables, group fares and latest information can be found on their website at www.swanagerailway.co.uk.

Pohotogragh by Will Stratford

After a working life that saw it operate everywhere from zinc mines to sugar factories, Lucie was restored by Dorothea Restorations in 1988, and ran at Peak Rail, before moving to the Middleton Railway in Leeds, in July 1995. It was withdrawn in 2000 and remained in storage awaiting overhaul until 2017 – the year that Piglet and his brother, with support from their parents, purchased Lucie and moved

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.

souvenirs, railway books and DVDs, a large selection of items for model railways as well as clothing, railway prints and gifts for all ages.

Piglet admits that, like many, he did not expect Lucie to win the Steam Railway award over the other candidates. “It’s a genuine surprise,” he says. “There was some strong competition from other

TRAVEL TRADE •

Heritage Steam and Diesel trains to Corfe Castle.

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Victorian seaside town of Swanage.

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Convenient drop off point.

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Competitive rates.

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Joint ticketing.

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Reserved seating.

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Spectacular Isle of Purbeck countryside.

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Afternoon Teas.

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Luncheons.

www.swanagerailway.co.uk/groups

Group Travel Today

and a private compartment for 8 is £85. Bookings can be made via the railway’s website kesr.org.uk/reopening West Somerset Railway 20 miles of heritage railway through stunning Somerset countryside and coast. The Railway, a true country branch line of the old Great Western Railway is full of fascination whether you are looking for a nostalgic ride back in time through lovely countryside or to study the railway and industrial heritage which their line preserves..

Snowdon Mountain Railway Let Snowdon Mountain Railway take you on the journey of a lifetime to the rooftop of Wales. From the first views of the waterfall plunging into the gorge below at the start of the journey, to the breath-taking sights over the sheer edge of Rocky Valley, every moment is memorable. One of the world’s greatest panoramas is revealed at the Summit. Hafod Eryri, the Summit visitor centre, has spectacular panoramic views to the valleys below. Venture to the cairn where at 1085m, the views can stretch as far as Ireland.

15.35, for the two-hour round trip to Bodiam.

could be running again from May. As a result of the COVID restrictions, the heritage line was obliged to close last November, having already lost almost five months earlier in 2020.

If the restrictions continue to be eased, additional services will be introduced from June and passengers will once again be able to break their journey to enjoy visitor attractions in East Sussex.

The K&ESR, which runs through ten miles of beautiful countryside from Tenterden to Bodiam, is planning to run its first trains on Saturday, 22 May.

For the safety of visitors, social distancing restrictions remain in place for reopening. Tickets are being sold online for family groups and exclusive private compartments.

When the line reopens on 22 May, there will be three socially distanced seating steam hauled departures every open day, leaving Tenterden at 10.40, 13.15 and

Online prices are £36 for a table for two £49 for a table for up to 4 travelling together

From the Summit of the highest Mountain in Wales and England, young and old can embrace the invigorating atmosphere of Eryri – Land of the Eagles. All Summit services last approximately 2.5 hours, including a 30 minute stop at the Summit. Go and see exactly why Snowdon Mountain Railway has been described as one of the most unique and wonderful railway journeys in the world.

Kent and East Sussex Railway Trains on the hugely-popular Kent & East Sussex Railway

The historic steam locomotives, coaches and wagons, and the buildings of their ten unique stations linked by a twenty mile scenic journey will repay hours of exploration. The surrounding countryside is as varied as it is beautiful. The gently rolling Quantock hills and distant Exmoor, unspoilt villages and farms nestling in leafy lanes, the cliffs and coast of the Bristol Channel with views of distant South-Wales, confident Church Towers, Dunster's imposing Castle and Minehead's seaside charm are all waiting to be discovered. www.west-somersetrailway.co.uk

EXPERIENCE THE GOLDEN AGE OF STEAM TRAVEL

FOR A SPECIAL JOURNEY BACK IN TIME • On board catering for a delicious lunch or cream tea • Group discounts • Free coach parking • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions • Great in all weather • ‘We’re Good To Go’ COVID-19 Safety Industry Standard

WEST SOMERSET

RAILWAY MINEHEAD

BLUE ANCHOR

WATCHET

West Somerset Railway are able to oﬀer a variety of Covid safe group excursions from 22nd May 2021 onwards. Enjoy your journey and meander through the countryside behind a heritage steam or diesel locomotive. The majority of excursions will depart Bishops Lydeard. Excursions to and from Minehead will be available after 1st July 2021. Please check our website or contact us for more information.

W AT E R C R E S S L I N E . C O . U K TEL: 01962 733810

Group Discounts on the Snowdon Mountain Railway Email bookings@snowdonrailway.co.uk Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TT

WWW.WEST-SOMERSET-RAILWAY.CO.UK

OR CALL US ON 01643 704996

Group Travel Today

South West

Sand, sea, surfing, St Ives, sophisticated art galleries, buckets and spades, Bodmin, pasties, pies and Padstow,if ever there was a great group destination surely this must be it.

©MonkeyWorld

English Heritage described the mill as "probably one of the best-preserved textile mill complexes in the country. It retains the full range of buildings and power system features which characterised the development of the 19th century textile mill with much of the machinery that was used at the site in the 20th century." As well as their exhibitions and nationally significant collections they boast guided and self-guided tours and are situated only 5 minutes from M5, Junction 27 – making Coldharbour Mill a great day out or perfect for a quick stop-off.

Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre This internationallyacclaimed rescue centre, in 65 acres of beautiful Dorset woodland, is home to over 260 primates. Many have been neglected, kept in unnatural conditions, or experienced unbelievable cruelty. At Monkey World, they can all enjoy the company of their own kind in a safe and natural environment, and some are now part of international breeding programmes for endangered species. Currently, Monkey World is open to limited numbers of pre-booked visitors, and to protect their rescued primates’ health and wellbeing, some services and facilities may be unavailable. Please visit the website to book, and to check on opening and facilities. During this difficult time, they have been incredibly grateful to those who have supported their rescue

operation by “adopting” a monkey or ape. ‘Adoptive parents’ receive a year’s pass to the park, a photograph of their adopted primate, certificate, and copies of the Ape Rescue Chronicle up to three times a year, as well as funding the care of the primates here, and rescues of primates in need.

heritage machinery in action, see them fire up their steam boilers and engines on their event days or enjoy their wetland, wellbeing and wildlife space as a chance to relax and stroll in the beautiful Devon landscape. There has been a mill at Coldharbour, Uffculme, since the time of the Domesday Book, with the current woollen mill in continuous production since 1797.

For more details, please go to: www.monkeyworld.org email apes@monkeyworld.org or call 01929 462537 Coldharbour Mill: Bringing the past to life! Coldharbour Mill is one of the UK’s oldest working woollen mills. Set in the heart of the Devon countryside and on the bank of the River Culm, this industrial heritage site brings to life the stories of the Industrial Revolution and Textile production through the ages. You can see a full range of

Coach parking is available as well as a coach driver care package. Group rates are available and groups can be accommodated all year round. It has a great waterside café for a light bite or cream tea as well as opportunities to browse their heritage produce in their onsite shop. Book now by visiting www.coldharbourmill.org.uk

E EST. 1797 EU H BRA US TIN G THE M

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South Devon railway

L CE T

COLDHARBOUR

Welcome back!

NIVER

far more than a steam train ride 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

Group Travel Today

Cathedrals

Not just for the faithful, Cathedrals around the UK offer a unique insight into our social, political and cultural history.

City of Culture will mean many exciting events and exhibitions taking place both within the Cathedral and around the wider city, please ask at the time of booking for more details. As holders of the Visit Britain ‘We’re Good To Go’ accreditation, your group can be assured of a safe visit. Coventry Cathedral sits alongside many of Coventry’s other visitor attractions such so you can really make a day of it! They’d love to welcome you!

Salisbury Cathedral Salisbury Cathedral is a truly

Coventry Cathedral With Coventry set to be UK City of Culture 2021 from May this year there is no better time to visit Coventry Cathedral, where splendid medieval history meets modern architecture to stunning and poignant effect. Visitors can explore their Ruined Cathedral, destroyed by enemy raids during WW2, which now stands as a moving reminder of the horrors of war. Those of you who are feeling energetic can climb their Tower which at 295ft is the third highest in England. Standing proudly alongside the Ruins is their magnificent ‘New’ Cathedral, featuring

remarkable building, a testimony to the faith and practical skills of the medieval craftsmen who built it, but it is much more than a historical monument. It is a living church and a place of prayer. As the Cathedral Church of the Salisbury diocese, it is the Mother Church of several hundred parishes in Wiltshire and Dorset. With breathtaking views, Britain’s tallest spire and original 1215 Magna Carta, Salisbury Cathedral is one of England’s ‘must-see’ historical attractions. . www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

works by some of the greatest artists of the 1950s and 60s. Designed as a ‘casket of jewels’ by Sir Basil Spence, as you move through the building you will experience a journey like no other. Your group will learn about the history and significance of the Cathedral from one of their expert guides, and your tour can be tailored to include any specific areas of interest you may have. Perfectly placed in the city centre, the Cathedral campus spans over 1000 years of history, from the early medieval craftsmanship still visible on the ruined Old Cathedral to the innovative 60’s design of Spence’s casket of jewels.

Prepare to be Amazed... Welcome to the home of Britain’s tallest spire and best preserved original Magna Carta. Book your visit today www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

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

Group Travel Today

Houses of Historic Interest

Now, more than ever, it’s time to visit one of our unsurpassed inheritance of renowned places and exceptional bulldings, our support will ensure their preservation for generations to come.

Canterbury CathedralWelcoming Groups Back with New Experiences Canterbury Cathedral is the jewel in Kent’s crownUNESCO World Heritage Site, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion, and

through to surviving 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 1,400year 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

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

about the Cathedral’s history and highlighting points of interest to look out for, providing a low-cost 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 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. To find out more contact the Cathedral’s Visits team. visitsenquiries@canterburycathedral.org

Rediscover England’s First Cathedral

Discover 1,400 years of history at a UNESCO World Heritage site

‘Behind the Scenes’ tours and guided visits Exhibition spaces Digital Guides

www.canterbury-cathedral.org Melodie.Robson@canterbury-cathedral.org 34

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

Visit & Explore

hamptoncourtcastle.co.uk

Hampton Court Castle in rural Herefordshire o ers a varied & beautiful day out for groups.

Open every day Spring (April 1st) to Autumn, 10.30-5pm visitors can enjoy: • 15th Century Medieval Castle* • Expansive Lawns • Formal Gardens • Herbaceous Borders • Ornamental Kitchen Gardens • Stunning Water Features • Orangery Cafe* • River Walk • Maze & Gothic Tower*

Groups of 20 or more receive a discounted rate & can also book for the Orangery Cafe in advance.

“Possibly the most ambitious private garden of our time…” Country Living Gardens Editor

*Visit our website for the latest info on covid restrictions T: 01568 797 777 E: ticketo ce@hamptoncourtcastle.co.uk

Staycation

2021

Iakov Kalinin/Shutterstock.com

Great Days& Great Out British

View our approved ticket sellers and latest safety measures at W B S T U D I OTO U R .CO.U K / T R AVE L- PA R T N E R S TM & © 2021 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Wizarding World Publishing Rights © JKR.

Great Days Out

& Great British Staycation

Contents 3-

Welcome and Contents

Spotlight on ...

East of England

East Midlands

10 - Heart of England Welcome to the spring edition of the Great Days Out Guide, it's fair to say that we have seen and heard from a large number of experts, virologists, immunologists, psychologists and psychiatrists in the past 12 months. One thing that they have all agreed on is the absolute need to ensure that the nation's mental health is of paramount importance indeed to that end even during the most severe of lockdown measures we have been encouraged to take exercise and to form social bubbles to keep us all sane, even the most Victor Meldrews like amongst us are social creatures at heart. We're now in the home stretch, and very soon we will be able to get out and about and do what we love

doing best with those we know the most, here we have a fabulous selection of great outdoor and impressive indoor attractions for you to peruse and plan to visit. I'm sure that it won't be too long and I'm sure he won't mind before we're saying Professor Chris.. what's his name...

16 - London & South East 20 -

North East

22 -

North West

24 -

South West

28 -

Yorkshire

30 -

Wales

32 -

Scotland

34 -

Ireland

With the current Covid 19 pandemic evolving siuation please check with the attractions to confirm if any restrictions will apply

Sales: Brett Kirby Tel: 0121 445 6961 Production: Laura Collins Contributors: Julie Callaghan Design: Alexina Whittaker Front Cover Pictures Left to Right: Thanks to Exbury Gardens, Canterbury Cathedral, Royal Opera House,Glastonbury Abbey and Swanage Railway courtesey of Andrew PM Wright Managing Director: Nigel Whittaker Beau Business Media Group Ltd Publishing House, Windrush, Ash Lane, Birmingham, B48 7TS Tel: 0121 445 6961 e-mail: beaubusinessmedia@gmail.com This 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.

Something For Everyone Two fantastically indulgent, on site restaurants Wheelchair access to every corner of the site

£4.50

Large plant area with expert advice

EACH

Cream Tea in Novell’s Restaurant

Fantastic offers all year round Friendly and helpful staff on hand Our site includes:

Great Value Seasonal plant area

Polhill Farm Shop, Cottage Farm Butchers, Maidenhead Aquatics, Regal Awnings and many more retail partners.

£10 CASH INCENTIVE AND A FREE LUNCH* *Free lunch for the driver & £10 for the coach operator on the presentation of official ID. Offer only valid if bookings are made at least 24 hours in advance on our website carrying over 25 passengers. See website for booking form.

London Road Badgers Mount Sevenoaks Kent TN14 7AD polhill.co.uk

JUST 3 MINUTES FROM J4 / M25

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

FACILITIES AVAILABLE

AMPLE FREE PARKING

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Spotlight on ... gift shop, all fully wheelchair accessible throughout.

will go the extra mile to ensure everyone enjoys a warm and friendly welcome to the attraction.

Haynes International Motor Museum welcomes Group visitors The multi-award winning Haynes International Motor Museum is truly a must-see attraction to add to your itinerary. Whether it’s a day visit or an essential pit stop, group visitors are extremely welcome and the Museum’s dedicated team

The Museum offers a discount for groups of over 15 people but to make your visit a day out to remember we encourage you to speak with the team who can discuss all the options available to you when you book in advance, such as guided tours, reserved group

There are plenty of photo opportunities as you take a journey through motoring history to explore the UK’s largest collection of vehicles from around the world, from nostalgic classics of the 50s and 60s, glorious Bentleys and Rolls Royces to exciting super cars, like the Jaguar XJ220 and the Ferrari 360.

parking and private lunches. Visit England has awarded the Museum the 'WE'RE GOOD TO GO' industry charter mark, meaning all processes are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for all. For more information visit www.himm.co.uk call 01963 440804 or email groupsandclubs@himm.co.uk

Plus visitors can get up close to brand new exhibitions this year to discover the story behind Haynes Manuals, the legend of Ferrari and the legacy of Williams F1 racing. Included within your visit, this modern and spacious Museum provides a wonderful café and

BOOK YOUR GROUP VISIT TODAY! 01963 440804 himm.co.uk

Minutes from the A303. Postcode BA22 7LH.

THE UK’S LARGEST COLLECTION OF CARS & MOTORBIKES

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East Of England Home of the Broads a network of waterways ideal for messing about on the water and thousands of miles of walking routes winding across the stunning countryside and by beautiful coastline. to do whatever your interests are.

Boat Trips Take a ride on Falcon, their unique Victorian steamboat, or Marsh Harrier, their electric, accessible boat. As well as the museum which tells the story of the Suffolk and Norfolk Broads, there are plenty of events held throughout the year a few of which are listed below:

Adult Art Workshops

Frogmore is still a working paper mill but, as operated by the charity, it is also a visitor, education and community use centre as well. The trust is entirely self-financing and, of course, is not-for-profit with all proceeds from its activities being re-invested in the repair, maintenance and development of the mill and its historic equipment.

Hallowe’en- Trail Spooky family fun discovering Broadland’s ghosts.

If you have a group of 10 or more, booking a group visit is ideal.

Steam Day Rally

Group visits can be arranged on any day Monday to Friday and, if the group is sufficiently large (30+), at a weekend too. To make the best use of your time, they typically sub-divide larger groups into parties of 12 with each party doing a different 'activity' at the same time. Everyone gets to do everything, just in a different order. The ideal party size is 12 so they are quite used to welcoming groups of 24, 36, 48 or even larger.

Enjoy a fun trail around the Museum with Easter-themed prizes for all children.

Broads Tours Everyone should see the Norfolk Broads! And the best way to appreciate the Broads is from the water with Award-Winning Visitor Attraction, Broads Tours of Wroxham. Choose a Broads Tours river trip, sit back and do it in style with entertaining live commentary, light refreshments and a licensed bar. Alternatively, pack a picnic, hire one of their day boats, and enjoy the freedom of doing your own thing. Their fleet of passenger trip boats offers a fabulous opportunity to discover the Norfolk Broads. A full commentary from the skipper will ensure you don’t miss a thing, explaining the origins of the Broads, identifying points of

Barn Dance -Go and enjoy an evening’s dancing, music and fun in their boat shed.

interest along the way and showing you the abundance of local water birds as they come into view.

They are hoping to run a full programme of events once they re-open in March 2021.

Of course, during the pandemic, to get their Broads boat trips up and running again, they have had to make some changes. Dependant on availability you will be able to book a section of the passenger trip boat suited to the size of your party, up to 8 at this present time, as we go into 2021 this will be reviewed to run a near-normal service and experience.

www.museumofthebroads.org.uk Frogmore Paper Mill At Frogmore Paper Mill they celebrate the huge contribution that paper has played in shaping the world in which we live today. Frogmore Paper Mill is operated by the Apsley Paper Trail, a charitable trust founded to conserve the unique industrial heritage of this site in Hemel Hempstead.

For full details and to book, please visit www.broadstours.co.uk Museum of the Broads The Museum of the Broads will be ideal to visit for a great day out in 2021, with plenty of things

the trials of their newly patented paper machine. Thus began the paper's industrial revolution leading to the cheap, plentiful paper products that we all use every day of our lives.

In 1803 Frogmore Paper Mill was the place selected by Henry and Sealy Fourdrinier for

For group visitors they have created a special visit package that includes, tea and coffee on arrival, followed by an introductory presentation about the history of paper, Frogmore mill and the work of the trust. This will be followed by two, three or four activities depending on group size and the options selected. advance. For further details please call 01442 234600 or email visitors@thepapertrail.org.uk

INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE IN ACTION

Frogmore is the world’s oldest mechanised paper mill; a working mill, education and visitor centre, with something for everyone. We o er guided mill tours for individuals, groups and schools, which include have-a-go hand papermaking.

River trips in the Broads National Park

Discover the Broads

. .. .

SHOP CAFE GALLERY MUSEUM BOAT TRIPS FIRE ENGINE PAPER MACHINE IN ACTION

A cruise with us is the perfect way for your group or coach party to discover the Broads. We offer: Generous group discounts Free coach parking adjacent to boarding points Live commentary, refreshments and licensed bar Manual wheelchair access on all boats – let us know if you’ll need this when you book Scheduled river trips are available from Easter - 31st October. At other times of the year we can arrange a special trip for your group (minimum numbers apply).

“Exactly what an industrial museum should be–highly recommended” - w w w. f ro gm orepa perm i l l .org.uk Covid 19 may have temporarily closed us, but we are very busy preparing to re-open.

NEW No.5 CYLINDER MOULD PAPER MACHINE NEW LARGE HOLLANDER BEATER NEW SCHOOL WORKSHOPS MORE FAMILY FUN NEW STORYBOATS & ADULT ART COURSES RETURN

Give us a call on 01603 782207 and we’ll help you arrange the perfect day out. Details of our safe sailing policy can be found on www.broadstours.co.uk

Broads Tours The Bridge Wroxham NR12 8RX HSPVQT!CSPBET DP VL XXX CSPBETUPVST DP VL

FOURDRINIER WAY APSLEY HERTFORDSHIRE HP3 9RY Car Park HP3 9RG 01442 234600 charityvisitors@frogmorepapermill.org.uk no 1079008

Get involved with us on social media

charity no. 1079008

ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

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East Midlands A destination full of eastern promise, and of course fabulous gardens and stately homes not forgetting a King buried in a car park. and a large kitchen garden hint at former fortunes; while inside, collections of contrasts reveal an eccentric family who amassed a vast and varied collection. Room after room is filled with cases of butterflies and birds, shells and eggs, toy soldiers and minerals, but amidst the atmospheric interiors a Baroque state bed is striking in its glory. With Chinese embroidered silk hangings in pristine condition, the bed was given to Lady Harpur in 1734 as a gift from Princess Anne, and lay undiscovered in its original box until the 1980s.

Crich Tramway Village Crich Tramway Village offers one of Derbyshire's great family and group days out and a step back in time. Vintage trams run along a period street, climbing a mile and a half of track that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Derbyshire countryside. Experience the fascinating Woodland Walk & Sculpture Trail, which winds its way back to the village, or remain on the tram and be dropped off outside The Red Lion Pub and Tearooms, before visiting the fascinating Exhibitions and Workshop Viewing Gallery, where you can watch restorations of the vintage trams. , For a spot of retail therapy, The Forge Gift Shop offers

house estate. The house and stables are little restored, with many abandoned areas vividly portraying a period in the 20th century when numerous country houses did not survive to tell their tale.

mementoes of your visit and the traditional sweet shop enables you to by your old favourites by the quarter. Details about special events throughout the season can be found on the website. Pre-booked groups of ten or more receive discounted rates. Coach drivers receive free admission and a refreshment voucher and there is free parking.

The Harpur Crewe family, reclusive and private, kept Calke Abbey and its park hidden away until the house, its collection and the estate were handed to the National Trust in 1985. As the gates were unlocked and the shutters opened, life in this declining country house was revealed.

An Access Tram for wheelchair users runs twice a day if requested on arrival, and there is disabled access to all the facilities. www.tramway.co.uk

Time had stood still. Rooms were full of treasures collected by a family who never threw anything away, and the estate had become a haven for wildlife.

Calke Abbey With peeling paintwork and overgrown courtyards, Calke Abbey tells the story of the dramatic decline of a country-

Today faded garden buildings

The long drive through expansive parkland, the isolated estate and the secluded house in the hollow open up moments for reflection and retreat. The historic and fragile habitats of Calke Park and its National Nature Reserve await discovery, together with the limeyards, wetlands, ancient trees and ponds. A visit to Calke Abbey promises much to discover, from the orangery and rare auricular theatre in the gardens to the fragile habitats of Calke Park, which today is home to several important breed of cows and sheep. Visit the red and fallow deer in their restored deer enclosure and keep an eye out for the ‘Old Man of Calke’, a 1200 year old oak tree. Calke Abbey is open throughout the year, with the exception of Christmas Day. The house is open seven days a week from March to October. nationaltrust.org.uk/calke

Visit Chester eld Find out how the Crooked Spire got its twist or take a trip up the tower, call in at the Museum to discover more about the fascinating history of our town or shop at one of the oldest open air markets in the UK. Relax in the beautiful surroundings of Queen’s Park or visit Chester eld Theatres for a programme of music, comedy, drama and talks. For more information or to book free coach parking head to:

www.visitchester eld.info

Lifelong memories made at Calke Abbey Enjoy great days out any time of the year at the 'un-stately home'. Discover tales of an estate poised on the edge of neglect, explore a peaceful walled garden and plant your feet in o er 600 acres of nature. Don't forget to top off your visit with a cream tea in our welcoming café.

These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/calke 9

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Heart of England The mighty midlands home of the industrial revolution, and some might say (we do) the genius himself Mr William Shakespeare, see what else is on offer. The 2021 Birmingham International Tattoo Experience the pomp and pageantry of the Birmingham International Tattoo. Britain’s biggest indoor international tattoo (a type of military show), with over 1,000 performers, is returning to the Utilita Arena Birmingham bringing together marching bands, exciting displays and culminating in the spectacular Grand Finale featuring all the performers in a spectacle of pomp and pageantry. The Tattoo will bring together international marching bands with lots of pomp and pageantry thrown in for good measure. The massed bands will be joined by exciting displays including field gun, dog display teams and many other performers culminating in a spectacular grand finale. Whether you prefer the massed marching bands, the skirl of the pipes and drums, the fastpaced action of the field gun or the flyball dog races, or the pomp and pageantry of the massed standard bearers, there is something for all the family at the 2021 Birmingham International Tattoo. Saturday 27 November 2021 at 6pm & Sunday 28 November 2021 at 2pm Arena Birmingham, Birmingham Adult tickets from £20 to £32 with concessions for seniors and children available. Special discounts available for groups of 10+ Box office 0844-33-88-222, Groups 0800-358-0058 www.birminghamtattoo.co.uk

Shakespeare’s School Room and Guildhall

father John and to soak up the atmosphere of a late medieval

Oswestry

Standing in the heart of beautiful Stratford-upon-Avon is the Grade I listed building where the world’s greatest playwright went to school and had his first experiences of theatre. It is also one of the few remaining examples of a medieval guildhall in the country, with 600 years worth of stories to be discovered. This rich combination makes it a national treasure, and is why historian Michael Wood has described Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall as "One of the most atmospheric, magical and important buildings in the whole of Britain." A sense of life as it would have been during Shakespeare’s time is part an engaging, interactive and authentic visitor experience that includes soundscapes, projections, films and very knowledgeable guides. Visitors are invited to step into the shoes of the young Shakespeare, to sit in the very room that he sat in as a pupil, to take part in a live Tudor lesson, to learn about William’s

Priest’s Chapel where rare medieval wall paintings were

Market Days OPEN

•Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays •Ample Free Coach Parking •New central coach drop oﬀ point, booking essen)al on 01691 680222. Toilets •Loads of Independent Shops •Award Winning Park

Oswestry the birthplace of famous war poet Wilfred Owen

CONTACT DAVID CLOUGH OSWESTRY TOWN COUNCIL 01691 680222 WWW.OSWESTRY/TC.GOV.UK WWW.OSWESTRYMARKET.CO.UK

Home to Broadway, Droitwich Spa, Evesham and Pershore Set within beautiful Worcestershire countryside – straddling the M5 and nestled snuggly alongside the Cotswolds – makes the area a very appealing, easily accessible visitor destination. Alongside unique shopping experiences, the district boasts…

Attractions

Walking & Cycling

History & Heritage

An assortment of places – providing fun for all, whatever your age or interest

Experience some of the district’s best sights on foot or two wheels via the many trails

Marvel at majestic buildings and monuments with heritage spanning thousands of years

Countryside & Scenery

Food & Drink

Waterways

Hills, Cotswold stone, orchards and unspoilt countryside to take your breath away

Get a avour of the wonderful unique local produce as ingredients or within delicious meals

Why not take in the canal and river via a relaxing boat ride or try water sport activities

, exploration n, attraction listings io at rm fo in ism ur it: For to and publications, vis guides, trip planners

www.valeandspa.c

01386 565373

info@valeandspa.co

.uk

o.uk/coach @Vale_and_Spa @ValeandSpa

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uncovered during the restoration of the building. This is a visitor experience full of fun, excitement and drama worthy of Shakespeare’s legacy.

perfect visit for your group or alternatively visit www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk

Dudley Canal Trust

Lichfield Cathedral, where you can discover over 1300 years of history in the only medieval three-spired Cathedral in the UK! See a medieval wall painting, the famous Herkenrode stained glass, the Lichfield Angel and much more.

Take a boat trip underneath Dudley, or explore the fascinating open canal around Netherton and Tipton! They offer special group rates for their 45 minute, 2 hour and 6 hour trips as well as some additional routes that are only available to pre-booked groups. Groups can also book workshop sessions, refreshments, meeting room hire and more either as standalone items or to complement a boat trip. Give them a call on 0121 557 6265 to discuss creating the

Lichfield Cathedral

Wychavon

Coventry Cathedral

Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa – incorporating Broadway, Droitwich Spa, Evesham and Pershore – is an area of sheer diversity, not only in its surroundings, but also in what is on offer with accommodation, shopping, attractions and a plethora of festival and events – there is truly something for everyone.

Visit Coventry Cathedral, where splendid medieval history meets modern architecture to stunning and poignant effect. Visitors can explore the Ruined Cathedral, destroyed by enemy raids during WW2, which now stands as a moving reminder of the horrors of war. Those of you who are feeling energetic can climb their Tower which at 295ft is the third highest in England.

Despite the number of places within the district, you can travel from edge to edge in an hour. That means wherever you initially visit, you will be perfectly placed to explore the remainder of Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa at great comfort and convenience.

They are able to offer a range of tours for groups at the Cathedral, giving you a wide range of opportunities to learn about this medieval building and its history and heritage. Chapters, the Cafe in the Close, can cater for your group whether it be a tea/coffee on arrival, buffet lunch in a private function room or following your tour with afternoon tea. For full details please visit www.lichfield-cathedral.org

It's not all about the towns, with nearly 100 villages and hamlets contained within the district also waiting to be visited. For a full list of events please visit www.valeandspa.co.uk

Standing proudly alongside the Ruins is their magnificent ‘New’ Cathedral, featuring works by some of the greatest artists of the 1950s and 60s. Designed as a ‘casket of jewels’ by Sir Basil Spence, as you move through the building you will experience a journey like no other. Your group will learn about the history and significance of the Cathedral from one of their expert guides, and your tour can be tailored to include any

A STORY WORTH DISCOVERING A N A N C I E N T C AT H E D R A L F U L L O F L I F E & W O N D E R

SO U ND A ND LIG HT SHO W BY LU XMU RA LI S A RT I ST IC CO LL A BO RATION

www.lichfield-cathedral.org

t u o y a d t a e r g a r o f s Join u Located less than two miles from Birmingham city centre, explore exotic glasshouses, Japanese gardens, traditional tea room and enjoy a variety of fun events for the whole family.

birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk Find us on: Thank you for your support it keeps our Gardens growing The Gardens are a registered Educational Charity, No: 528981

AN EDUCATIONAL CHARITY

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Standing in the heart of beautiful Stratford-upon-Avon is the Grade I listed building where William Shakespeare was inspired to become the world’s greatest playwright. Immerse yourself in sixteenth century Stratford-upon-Avon to explore the very room where William Shakespeare sat as a pupil and the space where he first saw plays performed. Take part in a live Tudor lesson with Master Thomas Jenkins

Dress up in authentic Tudor clothes and learn to write with a quill

Learn about William’s father John and hear many stories about the building from our knowledgeable Guides

Whether a lifelong Shakespeare enthusiast or new to his enduring legacy, this authentic experience illuminates and brings to life the story of young William.

Soak up the atmosphere of the late medieval Priest’s Chapel and marvel at the wall paintings, uncovered during the restoration of the building.

Website www.shakespearesschoolroom.org Email info@shakespearesschoolroom.org

A MAGICAL PL ACE

specific areas of interest you may have. Perfectly placed in the city centre, the Cathedral campus spans over 1000 years of history, from the early medieval craftsmanship still visible on the ruined Old Cathedral to the innovative 60’s design of Spence’s casket of jewels. Coventry Cathedral sits alongside many of Coventry’s other visitor attractions so you

Discover 250 years of colourful stories through the world’s largest collection of Worcester porcelain.

can really make a day of it! They’d love to welcome you!

A warm welcome for groups – book ahead to enjoy one of our talks and refreshments on Royal Worcester china.

www.coventrycathedral.org.uk

Call or make an enquiry online, quote code GDO21 for our groups rate. www.museumofroyalworcester.org T: 01905 21247

Severn Street, Worcester WR1 2ND

Follow us @TheMoRW ‘Royal Worcester’ and the C51 crown device are registered by and used under kind permission from Portmeirion Group UK Ltd to whom all rights are reserved.

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

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London and the South East There’s much more to do “ down south” than to eat jellied eels and see the sights of London, why not broaden you horizons?

Canterbury Cathedral offers new group experiences for 2021 Canterbury Cathedral is offering a fascinating new group tour, and Group Welcome options for 2021. They are launching a Guided Precincts Tour where you can learn the history of the Cathedral from its outside architecture, gardens and statues. Covering everything from explaining what a Dark Entry is, through to what went on in the medieval Cloisters and Chapter House, the tour tells the story of how the cathedral was built and altered over time, and ends with the chance to enter the Cathedral and explore under your own steam. This is a great way to offer your group a special experience at a time when they might feel less confident about taking a tour inside and will encourage visitors to explore some of the hidden gardens and outside spaces that the Cathedral has to offer.

The Cathedral are also offering groups a unique, bookable Group Welcome on entry, featuring a short introductory talk about the Cathedral’s history and highlights to look out for once inside. This is a great, low-cost way of providing an added-extra for your group. To find out more contact the Cathedral’s Visits team visitsenquiries@canterburycathedral.org Secret World of Plants, 1 May – 19 September 2021 Visit Kew Gardens this summer and step into the Secret World of Plants a series of immersive art installations revealing the untold stories of our UK plants and landscapes, which will make you look again at the precious nature of the world around us. Explore stunning ‘plantscapes’ by artist Vaughn Bell, six immersive structures that reveal the overlooked plant habitats of

the UK. You can pop up through holes within the installations for a unique view of these incredible environments, including meadows, hedgerows, sand dunes and coastal habitats.

sound domes in Kew’s incredible Arboretum and listen to the sound of water moving up through the trees. A newly commissioned composition in response to the sounds accompanies the work. Sound artist, beatboxer and composer Jason Singh takes over the Temperate House with a fascinating look at ‘Plants as Composer’. His musical score uses technology to record the ‘voice’ of the plants, creating a beautifully melancholic soundtrack. After exploring, rest your feet and take in the beauty of the Gardens from a different perspective on a monumental and playful seating installation by architectural designer Paul Cocksedge. A rippling wave of wood rises to form arches to walk through, and curves under to create spaces for you to sit, lie back and relax. So, come and reconnect with nature this summer, and find out more about the Secret World of Plants.

Elsewhere in the Gardens, you’ll be amazed at the incredible sounds of nature, heard at Kew like never before. Sound artist Alex Metcalfe invites you to uncover the unheard inner workings of trees. Stand beneath one of the suspended

groups@kew.org

Secret World of Plants is included in admission. Special rates for groups of 15 or more people are available. All groups must reserve their visit in advance by contacting

Take a step back in time and go behind the scenes at one of the world's most famous theatres, right in the heart of Covent Garden and London's theatreland. For information on the range of tours available and to book online, please visit our website. For enquiries about group and exclusive private tours, please email tours@roh.org.uk.

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Waddesdon Manor. Photo Chris Lacey (c) National Trust

and Premiership rugby and performers like the Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters, Guns N’ Roses and Beyoncé. To find out what’s on, please visit: www.london-stadium.com The Stadium sits within Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which boasts several iconic venues open to the public as part of the London 2012 legacy. The Arcelor Mittal Orbit, London Aquatics Centre, Lee Valley VeloPark, Copper Box Arena and Lee Valley Hockey and tennis Centre are all within walking distance of the Stadium. You can read more about what’s on and how to visit here:

Waddesdon

Watercress Line

Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild built the Manor in the 1870s to entertain his guests and display his collection of art treasures. It houses one of the finest collections of French 18th century decorative arts and British portraiture.

Whatever the time of year, there is always much to see and do at the Watercress Line, a delightful heritage railway in the heart of Hampshire. Experience the thrill of travelling by steam train along the 10 mile line that runs from Alresford to Alton and adjoins the South Downs National Park. Sit back and soak up the atmosphere whilst enjoying a delicious onboard lunch and cream tea.

Set in 5,000 acres of rolling parkland, Waddesdon has one of the finest examples of a late Victorian garden in Britain. Famed for colourful bedding, the gardens are full of variety throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy formal gardens, a Parterre, 3D bird bedding sculptures and artificial Pulham rock. Hear rare birds call from the ornate Rococo-style Aviary or take a tour of the . impressive garden statuary The Manor possesses an outstanding collection of wines, and with cellars and a wine shop that contain one of the largest collection of Rothschild wines in the world, this is a destination for wine lovers. There are also cafés, restaurants, gift shops and the Coach House gallery to enjoy.

staging the world’s biggest sporting and music events. It’s already hosted the 2015 Rugby World Cup, the London 2017 World Athletics Championships, the 2019 Major League Baseball London Series, Premier League football, international

WADDESDON A Rothschild House & Gardens

With four authentic period stations along the route, visiting is like going back in time. At Ropley station, you can explore preservation in action in the engineering sheds and get up close to the huge locomotives! Visitor safety is a top priority and all Covid-19 safety guidelines are in place. The attraction has been awarded the ‘We’re Good To Go’ COVID-19 safety industry standard and is a great place to visit in all weathers. Group discounts and free coach parking are available. London Stadium Tours About London Stadium London Stadium has been transformed into a multi-use world class venue capable of

www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk

For opening times and group rates groups@waddesdon.org.uk www.waddesdon.org.uk Near Aylesbury, Bucks HP18 0JH

Groups can enjoy: ● Special group rates ● Guided tours ● Delicious group lunch or afternoon tea options ● Joint visits with other Sussex attractions ● Free coach parking

Safe and Enjoyable

Great Days Out

North East The North East has spawned brilliant people, inventions and innovations, you would be well advised to go and investigate, you’ll be amazed at the plethera of things to do and see. Bamburgh The King of Castles And it truly is! Perched atop a rocky outcrop at the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Bamburgh Castle reigns supreme over the surrounding landscape and seascape. With outstanding views landward to the Cheviot Hills and seaward to the Farne Islands and Lindisfarne it offers a feast for the eyes to behold. As for Englishness, there’s been something here from the time of the Anglo-Saxons, it was from here that Christianity spread throughout the North of England, it’s because of here that Lindisfarne is now known as the Holy Island. It was the first castle in England to be besieged by canon fire, it was home to the world’s first Coastguard station and the development of the first ever lifeboat. Finally bought in 1864 for £8000 it was restored as the quintessential English castle by one of England’s greatest inventors and philanthropists, 1st Lord Armstrong. Now groups can explore the State Rooms, discovering thousands of items in a collection containing furniture, porcelain, works of art, arms and armour. A separate museum tells the story of 1st Lord Armstrong and contains fascinating Aviation artefacts displays. The café provides a welcome rest stop for all and there’s ample parking for coaches. For more details see the website www.bamburghcastle.com

As you would expect, The Garden evolves through the seasons. Spring, sees The Garden come to life, and no more so than The Cherry Orchard, with the largest collection of Tai haku cherry blossom trees outside of Japan; summer provides an aesthetic majesty of colour and fragrance, throughout the site; autumn introduces a transition from warm to cold weather with gold and rust coloured leaves; and winter is accompanied by their Christmas Market, a Skating Rink, Festive Lunches, Afternoon Teas, and the ‘real’ Father Christmas!

a wonderful combination of themed garden spaces, quirky features and play areas. One such area is The Poison Garden, where specialist guides take visitors on a journey of discovery, elaborating on the dangerous and sinister side of plants. Feast your eyes on Europe’s largest wooden Treehouse, comprising of a firstclass restaurant, café and wobbly bridges to boot. Stare in wonder at one of the largest water features of its kind - The Grand Cascade - with captivating half hourly water displays. Themed gardens such as The Rose Garden, with over 300 David Austin rose bushes resulting in thousands of blooms and pergolas that are adorned with honeysuckle and clematis, and The Ornamental Garden, with one of the larges collections of European plants in the UK, designed as a series of small ‘rooms’, beautifully framed by hedges, trees and shrubs.

A garden with a conscience The Alnwick Garden is not simply a visitor attraction, it is a community focused charity with a vision to offer inspiration and enrichment to people in all stages of their lives. groups@alnwickgarden.com

Alnwick Gardens Once a forgotten, derelict plot, The Alnwick Garden is now one of the world’s most ambitious contemporary gardens. It has

Binchester Roman Fort

Binchester Roman Fort gives you an insight into what life was like for the Romans in County Durham.Explore the exceptionally well-preserved remains of not just one but two bath-houses. One lies inside the fort and has one of the most intact hypocaust (underfloor) heating systems in the whole of Britain. The protective structure over this bath-house was replaced in 2018 by a more sturdy successor which features improved interpretation and decoration. The other bathhouse lies outside the fort and is even better preserved with walls still standing to a height of more than two metres (six feet) above Roman floor level. Find out why taking a bath in Roman times was about more than just getting clean. Walk in the footsteps of Roman soldiers within the remains of the commanding officer's house see if you can find the 'Beast of Binchester' among the ruins. www.durham.gov.uk

Great Days Out

North West The vibrant cities of Manchester and Liverpool are included in this most varied of regions, not to mention The Lakes, breathtaking scenery, crystal clear lakes,picture post card villages, what are you waiting for? John Lennon found solace as a child playing in the grounds. In 2019, the famous Strawberry Field red gates – outside which thousands of people journey to every year to have their photo taken – will open for the first time to visitors. Strawberry Field is set to become a unique and authentic visitor experience. The site had a significant influence on John Lennon’s childhood, being the inspiration for the song ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’. Windermere Lake Cruises Windermere Lake Cruises offers visitors the perfect way to spend a day exploring England's largest lake and the surrounding area - right in the heart of the Lake District UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taking a trip means passengers can experience the full length of the lake, from Lakeside at the southern tip, right up to Ambleside at the top - while taking in Bowness and other stops along the way. As one of England’s most popular ‘paid-for’ attractions, Windermere Lake Cruises also offers passengers convenient access to several awardwinning family attractions, including their sister-attraction The Lakeland Motor Museum. With regular services all yearround and more than 100 daily sailings at the height of the summer season, why not pick up a popular “Freedom of the Lake” ticket, which offers unlimited cruising over a 24 hour period? More information is available at

www.windermerelakecruises.co.uk or by calling 015394 43360.

and learn about our own solar system,, listen to the sound of the Big Bang or take a stroll in the gardens & grounds.

Jodrell Bank

If you would like to arrange a group visit for a party of 10 or more, please call us on 01477 571766 before booking online. www.jodrellbank.net

In the summer of 2019, in recognition of its internationally significant heritage, science and cultural impact, Jodrell Bank Observatory was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status and has been inscribed on the World Heritage List.

Strawberry Field Strawberry Field, the iconic site immortalised by John Lennon in The Beatles hit, ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’, was previously the site of the former Salvation Army children’s home, where

Jodrell Bank now joins a prestigious group of sites across the globe recognised by UNESCO’s international community as sites of Outstanding Universal Value. The World Heritage Site inscription acknowledges Jodrell Bank’s tremendous scientific endeavours and its role in achieving a transformational understanding of the Universe. The Discovery Centre is a great day out for groups, you can explore the wonders of the universe and learn more about the workings of the giant Lovell Telescope. You can visit the three pavilions

As a visitor attraction, Strawberry Field will include an authentic inter-active exhibition, complete with audio guide in multiple languages, exploring stories of the site’s history, John Lennon's childhood, the writing and recording of the song. Visits will include a tour of the garden and woods where John played as a child. A café will provide light refreshments as well as lunch and early dinner menus. A shop will stock an exciting and unique range of Strawberry Field merchandise. www.strawberryfieldliverpool.co m/travel-trade

Stories of boats and steam

The Arts & Crafts house

Two unique attractions in a UNESCO World Heritage site for just £10.50. These stunning attractions tell the stories of cultural life in the Lake District. Just 5 minutes’ apart and set in a beautiful landscape, enjoy a day filled with local heritage and cultural experiences. To find out more, visit our website lakelandarts.org.uk Scan the QR code to go directly to info on our group visits and bookings.

EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF THE UNIVERSE AT THE WORLD-FAMOUS JODRELL BANK OBSERVATORY Open Monday - Sunday 10am - 5pm Discover the giant Lovell Telescope!

Photography by Craig Strong

Plus: Interactive exhibits and displays, 35 acres of gardens and arboretum, Planet Pavilion Cafe and gift shop, playground and picnic areas, year-round events and activities

Great Days Out

South West Stately homes, glorious gardens, heritage railways, animal attractions, fabulous beaches the south west is an area that could provide 365 great days out. Rieke in hammock ©MonkeyWorld

the space has to offer. In August 2020 there were even some very popular reduced capacity events such as Night at the Abbey and One Enchanted Evening. Whilst visitor numbers have significantly dropped due to the spread of the virus, Glastonbury Abbey are doing all they can to continue to offer a safe outdoor space for the general public to enjoy and look forward to the opportunity to host an array of events again as restrictions ease.

Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre This internationally-acclaimed rescue centre, in 65 acres of beautiful Dorset woodland, is home to over 260 primates. Many have been neglected, kept in unnatural conditions, or experienced unbelievable cruelty. At Monkey World, they can all enjoy the company of their own kind in a safe and natural environment, and some are now part of international breeding programmes for endangered species.

photograph of their adopted primate, certificate, and copies of the Ape Rescue Chronicle up to three times a year, as well as funding the care of the primates here, and rescues of primates in need.

Glastonbury Abbey's 36 acres of grounds have been a place of exercise, reflection and calm throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Apart from the full lockdown in early 2020 the abbey has been able to make the grounds available to visitors so that local people can enjoy the peace and tranquillity that

For more details, please go to: www.monkeyworld.org, Glastonbury Abbey

Currently, Monkey World is open to limited numbers of prebooked visitors, and to protect our rescued primates’ health and well-being, some services and facilities may be unavailable. Please visit the website to book, and to check on opening and facilities. During this difficult time, we have been incredibly grateful to those who have supported our rescue operation by “adopting” a monkey or ape. ‘Adoptive parents’ receive a year’s pass to the park, a

As an independent charity, Glastonbury Abbey relies almost entirely on visitor income to maintain and conserve the grounds and ruins for public benefit. In order to raise much needed funds the Glastonbury Abbey Recovery Appeal was launched where members of the public can adopt an artefact from the abbey collection or make a one time donation to the abbey. For details of how you can support

COLDHARBOUR

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Group Tours Seasonal Events

Glastonbury Abbey provides an essential outdoor space for people to experience nature, spirituality, relaxation, exercise and play Registered Charity No: 1129263 Company Registration No: 6873912

E EST. 1797 EU H BRA US TIN G THE M

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MILL

Explore the ruin s 36 acres & o beautifu f l grounds

Visit www.glastonburyabbey.com for more information

Great Days Out

the abbey at this time please visit appeal.glastonburyabbey.com . Membership is a great way of supporting the abbey at this time and benefits you with free entry on the days it is open and also offers further benefits by the way of shop and cafe discounts, discounted events for "plus" members and more. At less than £1 per week for an adult member, membership is great value and assists by supporting the abbey with its more than £3000 per day costs. You can find out more about Glastonbury Abbey membership and the recovery appeal at www.glastonburyabbey.com Stuart Line Cruises Stuart Line Cruises is an awardwinning, family-run passenger boat company based in the iconic seaside town of Exmouth, East Devon and have been proudly welcoming groups and firmly supporting the Group Travel Industry throughout the COVID_19 pandemic. They operate cruises throughout the year in the calm and sheltered waters of the River Exe and during the summer months, they cruise East Devon’s magnificent Jurassic Coast, South Devon’s glorious English Riviera and Europe’s oldest working ship canal, into the heart of the Cathedral City of Exeter.

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.

As long-standing members of the Coach Tourism Association, the company remain engaged in and truly understand industry demands, ensuring that they can provide the best experience for organisers and their customers. Group bookings with Stuart Line Cruises are bespoke, so please get in touch with their friendly team info@stuartlinecruises.co.uk / 01395 222144 for more information Coldharbour Mill . 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 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.

All of these features provide a wonderful day out in the Devon countryside and it’s well worth a visit when you get a chance. coldharbourmill.org.uk Cornwall Plus Your perfect base to explore the natural beauty of Cornwall With miles of unique coastlines, sandy beaches, hidden creeks, sailing, castles and artistic heritage, there’s an abundance of beauty and interest to explore in this spectacular seaside county.

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.

Set within the heart of Cornwall, their Covid-safe university accommodation is exclusively available during July and August on the picturesque, leafy Penryn university Campus. Close to stunning seascapes, dramatic landscapes and a

Though the Mill’s primary function has always been textile spinning, on a visit you will get to learn about a full range of heritage skills including

Their fleet of modern vessels are immaculately clean and exceptionally well-maintained, boasting open-top decks and covered and heated lower decks, offering year-round comfort, whatever the weather!

wide range of activities and attractions, the Penryn Campus is ideally situated between the vibrant port of Falmouth and the historic town of Penryn, and is a gateway to all that Cornwall has to offer. Cornwall Plus has a four-star campus rating from Visit England, is winner of best accommodation 2019/20 by Academic Venue Solutions, and has over 1000 modern double or twin shower-ensuite bedrooms available during the height of summer. All linen is provided along with access to a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi and a choice of selfcatering or meal packages. The accommodation is set within the residential village on the stunning 100 acre campus, which is nestled amongst tranquil historical gardens, an 18th century manor house and a host of onsite campus facilities. Cornwall Plus is ideal for group travel, with both indoor and outdoor recreational and social spaces, along with meeting rooms and seminar spaces available by prior request. Facilities onsite include an onsite café/bar and shop, 24 hour reception, car and coach parking, self-service laundry facilities, a Sports Centre and an outdoor multi use games area. The prestigious Tall Ships maritime event is set to return to Falmouth this August, and live music outdoor events are being planned at the unique Eden Project in St Austell, giving your group even more options for great Cornish days out. Get in touch for more information about how the university accommodation is the best base for your group to discover the captivating charm and adventures within Cornwall.

Choose from a diverse range of cruises, from 1-hour circular cruises to full day trips and book with confidence, knowing that your passengers will experience consistently outstanding customer service from their friendly Crew.

Call 01326 370421, email booking@fxplus.ac.uk or visit www.cornwall-plus.co.uk

Prepare to be amazed... This medieval masterpiece, home to Magna Carta, never fails to impress. Call to plan your visit today.

AWARD-WINNING CRUISES

01722555120 | groups@salcath.co.uk www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

Operating year-round, even Christmas Day!

Discounted group rates and bespoke packages to suit your group's requirements

Ask us about joint packages with other top attractions in Devon for a great value full day out! Call 01395 222144 or email info@stuartlinecruises.co.uk to discuss ideas and options.

Cornwall is calling for you

Explore Cornwall’s stunning natural beauty. Perfectly located for spectacular beaches, landscapes and attractions, our University Rooms available in July and August at the University Campus, Penryn near Falmouth is your gateway to explore all that Cornwall has to oﬀer. ▯ Aﬀordable accommodation in the heart of Cornwall ▯ Beautiful gardens ▯ En suite double or twin bedrooms ▯ Self catering and meal packages available ▯ Coach and car parking ▯ Ideal for group travel ▯ 24 hour reception ▯ Free WiFi ▯ Sports Centre and outdoor multi use games area for hire E: booking@fxplus.ac.uk | T: +44 (0)1326 370 421 | www.cornwall-plus.co.uk Glasney Rooms, Penryn Campus, Treliever Road, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE

Great Days Out

Yorkshire An area thats greatest treasure is the sheer variety of glorious landscapes, historic places and picture perfect villages and towns.

Dales Countryside Museum The museum shares the stories of the people and landscape of the Yorkshire Dales. They’re free for kids, tickets last all week and with a £9 Annual Pass you can come and enjoy making memories together all year round. Take time out having fun exploring their family friendly galleries, kids Creation Station on the carriages, changing exhibitions and outdoor trail. Learn something new at one of their events or experience days. Relax and recharge with great coffee and cake at the Firebox café and then browse their Distinctly Dales shop to find a little piece of the Dales to take home. They are a National Park Museum and Visitor Centre, so their welcoming staff will go over and above to help you find out all you need to know to make your visit to the Museum, Hawes, Wensleydale and the wider Yorkshire Dales a special one. www.dalescountrysidemuseum. org.uk

Whitby Abbey

visitors, beyond simply gazing on its stunning exterior. Inside you can enjoy a guided tour, take a trip up the 275 steps to the top of the Central Tower, where the views are simply

Whitby Abbey has been inspiring visitors for nearly 1500 years, now it’s your turn to follow in the footsteps of artists, writers and religious leaders to explore the soaring gothic ruins and to take in the stunning sea views.

exceptional, or even venture into the chambers beneath the Minster to explore their latest addition, Revealing York Minster of 10+ people bene'it in the Undercroft – definitely f one of the best days out in Yorkshire. Every year, York Minster welcomes groups from around the globe who come to experience the 800-year-old cathedral and explore the 2,000-year history of its site. To help you explore the cathedral’s rich history, groups have the option to book a private tour guide for their visit. For more information or to book, please contact their team telephone 01904 557275 or email bookings@yorkminster.org

DALES COUNTRYSIDE MUSEUM

You can uncover centuries of history with the new interactive guide, last year Whitby Abbey was reopened following a major project to improve the visitor centre, museum and interpretation across the site, visit the remodelled museum to find out more about how the abbey inspired Caedmon, the first-named English poet, and Bram Stoker, the author of 'Dracula'.

The Dales Countryside Museum, housed in Hawes’ former Victorian railway station, is a hidden gem at the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The Museum is coach, pushchair and wheelchair friendly. Assistance dogs are welcomed. Groups of 10+ people bene'it from a discount on entry and the Museum is free for children. Hawes National Park Centre is based at the Museum. Opening times Open daily 10am to 5pm February to October, 10am to 4.30pm November and December. Closed Christmas Eve to Boxing Day and throughout January. Last entry is an hour before closing time.

Take your group to enjoy the perfect day out at one of Britains historic places across the country and benefit from discounts for groups of 11 or more. www.english-heritage.org.uk York Minster If it’s stunning architecture you’re after, a trip to York Minster is a no brainer. Built between 1220 and 1472, it’s beautiful to behold and has plenty to offer

Dales Countryside Museum, Station Yard, Hawes, North Yorkshire DL8 3NT01969 666210 dcm@yorkshiredales.org.uk

Great Days Out

Wales Wales for Groups - Cymru ar grwpiau, Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham, Snowdon mountains and the Brecon Beacons.Heritage Railways and more castles than you can shake a stick at, it’s all here, time for a vist. Photograph courtesy of Portmeirion

lunches or dinners in the Conservatory Restaurant. For more details see their website www.llancaiachfawr.com or contact them on 01443 412248 to make a booking. Cardiff Castle Perhaps the most photographic of Wales' many castles, Cardiff Castle is a must-visit. Boasting still-intact sections constructed more than 1,000 years ago this splendidly preserved castle can take a few hours to explore. Be sure to allow plenty of time to do so in your Cardiff sightseeing itinerary.

Portmeirion

two complimentary tours;

Llancaiach Fawr Manor

This unique village is set on its own private peninsula on the southern shores of Snowdonia. It was created by Welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis (18831978) to demonstrate how a naturally beautiful place could be developed without spoiling it.

First is a 20-minute land train, this operates from 11 am until 4 pm and runs every half an hour on the hour and half hour. The land train will take you on a ride around part of the 70 acres of wild woodland and return you to the centre of the village.

Llancaiach Fawr Manor is a living history museum set in the turbulent times of the Civil War. Visitors to the manor are welcomed by the servants of Colonel Pritchard who are dressed in the costume of the period, speaking the old fashioned English. As they show you around the house they talk freely about the turmoil and impact the civil war is having, the lives of their Master and Mistress as well as folklore and customs. After your tour you can explore the recreated 17th Century gardens and then relax in their Café for a spot of lunch or cup of coffee and cake.

Portmeirion is open daily,they welcome groups all year round, Group rates are available to parties of 12 or more individuals travelling together and making one payment. Their dedicated Coach parking is situated close to the entrance of the village. They offer free entry and refreshments for the driver and one courier/tour leader. Included in the entry ticket are

Second is a complimentary 20minute guided tour and this operates from 10 am until 3.30pm and runs regularly from opposite the information centre. They can arrange guided tours for groups by arrangement. Guided tours need to be booked in advance with the Information Centre staff. Call 01766 772390 or email visit@portmeirion-village.com

They can accommodate up to 90 individuals on a tour of the Manor and similarly if catering facilities are required. They can also provide indulgent Afternoon or Cream teas,

Highlights include the State Apartments, notable for its informative displays relating to life in the castle over the ages, as well as the attractive old chapel. Other notable features include the well-preserved Banqueting Hall with its medieval murals and elaborate fireplace. A variety of guided tour options are available, along with an informative audio guide that can be picked up from the visitor center. If there's still time after your castle adventure, try to squeeze in a visit to the National Museum Cardiff. Undoubtedly topping the list of the best things to do for free in Cardiff, this major attraction houses impressive collections focusing on archeology, zoology, and botany, as well as the arts. The National Museum of Art is housed in the same building, and features a number of works by some of the world's most important artists, including Old Masters and Welsh painters. www.cardiffcastle.com

A place of beauty, peace and pilgrimage

ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL We welcome all visitors and pilgrims St Davids, Pembrokeshire SA62 6RD Opening times: We are generally open daily to all visitors and pilgrims; please check our website for our current opening and service times. There is no admission charge but we do encourage donations to help us keep the Cathedral open for all. Our usual service times are below, but due to COVID-19 they are subject to change Sundays 11.15 Choral Eucharist or Choral Ma ins 6.00 Choral Evensong Weekdays 8.00 Morning Prayer & Holy Communion (Wednesdays 10.00 Holy Communion) 6.00 Choral Evensong or Evening Prayer The Cathedral Bookshop, Domus gift shop and the Refectory are open in line with the Cathedral.

We welcome all visitors and pilgrims to this place.

info@stdavidscathedral.org.uk

01437 720202

www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk

Great Days Out

Scotland Surely the most geographically diverse region in the whole of the British Isles, Scotland is a mist shrouded land of mountains, fells, lochs, castles, golf courses, beaches and of course whisky galore! and interactive exhibits you can see why visitors old and young love visiting. People came from all over the world to build HM Factory Gretna and mix the devil’s porridge, why not unlock the secret and pay a visit to this unique attraction? info@devilsporridge.org.uk Forth Tours For one of the best days out in Scotland look no further than a trip out on the water with award-winning Forth Tours, below we highlight just a selection they have on offer:

12000 women worked in the factory there were accidents including loss of limbs and life as well as fires and explosions some girls had lifelong health problems

The Devils Porridge Museum

The Devil’s Porridge Museum is a 5 star, award winning attraction. It shines a light on an unknown aspect of World War One history and tells the story of the greatest factory on earth at that time. It employed 30,000 people, 12,000 of them women and here they mixed the devil’s porridge, an explosive mixture which went inside every single bullet and shell used in the First World War. Children love the museum

Blackness Castle & Three Bridges Cruise

The Museum offers a great day out to its visitors. It is fully accessible with a lift and has received positive feedback in its Covid-preparedness. The Museum is known for the warm welcome it offers (read its online reviews to find out for yourself how highly rated it is).

Relax onboard in the lounge or on the outside decks and listen to the guided commentary while enjoying your cream tea with friends and family.Take in views of the Three Bridges as you have never seen them before. View Blackness Castle (as featured in Outlander and Outlaw King) and known as the ship that never sails. We pass Limekilns village, as mentioned in Robert Louis Stevenson's Kidnapped. It was from Limekilns that David Balfour and Alan Breck were carried across the Forth in a rowing boat. During your tour, you will find plenty of opportunities to see a variety of marine wildlife including seals.

The First Floor gallery looks at World War Two stories such as the experiences of evacuees, the war in the air and a 1940s kitchen, the Museum is a walk down memory lane for many visitors! With touchscreens, films

Three Bridges Cruise 90-minute sightseeing cruise

Relax onboard your 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise with friends and family and listen to the guided commentary while you

enjoy a beverage or snack from the bar. Take in the spectacular views of the Three Bridges, the beautiful panoramas of the Edinburgh skyline to the south and the Kingdom of Fife to the north, the island of Inchcolm with its medieval abbey, and the islands of Inchgarvie, Inchkeith, and Inchmickery. Three Bridges & Inchcolm Island Cruise3-hour sightseeing cruise Purchase an optional landing pass and add 90 minutes to your Three Bridges sightseeing cruise and explore Inchcolm Island and the medieval abbey, the Iona of the east. Relax onboard with friends and family and listen to the guided commentary while you enjoy a beverage or snack from the bar. Take in the spectacular views of the Three Bridges, the beautiful panoramas of the Edinburgh skyline to the south and the Kingdom of Fife to the north, the island of Inchcolm with its medieval abbey, and the islands of Inchgarvie, Inchkeith, and Inchmickery. Three Bridges Bus & Boat Experience Board your bus at Waverley Bridge in the heart of Edinburgh for a tour to South Queensferry, followed by a Three Bridges Cruise aboard one of Forth Boat Tours fleet of vessels.Enjoy superb views of Edinburgh and Fife’s coastlines as well as the iconic Three Bridges, UNESCO World Heritage site. Get your camera out and look for puffins and seals along the way! forthtours.com

Eastriggs, DG12 6TF Minutes from the M6 near Gretna Green. Just off the A75

UP TO 60% OFF AT GRETNA GATEWAY

5 star rated, award winning Museum Open daily year round Group discounts available Fully accessible with a lift

Coach parking

Café with discounts for group bookings Amazing story of two World Wars 01461 700021

BEST ACTIVITY DAY OUT IN SCOTLAND 2019

devilsporridge.org.uk info@devilsporridge.org.uk 01461 700021

Three very distinctive cruises

BEST DAY OUT

WELCOME ABOARD EDINBURGH’S PREMIER BOATING ATTRACTION

Ideal for Coach Groups & Holidays

Three Bridges Cruise (Add an optional 90 minute landing on Inchcolm Island)

Blackness Castle, Three Bridges Cruise

(includes complimentary cream tea)

Forth Sea Train Adventure (Includes 90 minute Three Bridges Cruise & 90 minute steam train trip)

The Firth of Forth is simply overflowing with myths, turbulent history and fascinating marine wildlife. Our boat trips depart from South Queensferry, which is only a short distance from Scotland’s bustling Capital City of Edinburgh.

Our Cruises Sail all Year Round For further information on rates, availability and help with itinerary planning contact Alastair@forthtours.com or Call 0131 331 3030

Great Days Out

Ireland Whether you're stay at home Brits or international adventurers, the island of Ireland offers both. There’s plenty to choose. From Northern Ireland and the titanically exciting Belfast to Dublin’s Georgian grandeur as the capital of the Republic. features manikins and memorabilia from the glamour of Hollywood, all adorned in Newbridge authentic jewels. Called the Museum of Style Icons, or MOSI, it’s one of the most popular parts of the Newbridge operation. You’ll probably find your freshly blinged crew in the awardwinning Carleton restaurant for some delicious food. newbridgesilverware.com Kylemore Abbey

Titanic Titanic Belfast in Northern Ireland, a world leading tourist attraction located on the exact spot where the RMS Titanic was designed, built and launched, has outlined plans to re-invest £3 million into a Gallery Refreshment Programme. The iconic six-floor building features nine interpretive and interactive galleries that explore the sights, sounds, smells and stories of Titanic. Tour groups can currently walk the decks, travel to the depths of the ocean and uncover the legend of the world's most famous ship. This further investment into the experience aims to ensure it will continue to attract tour groups from countries all over the world. Speaking about the company’s biggest single investment and most ambitious project since opening in 2012, Judith Owens, Titanic Belfast’s Chief Executive said, “At Titanic Belfast, we do

Nomadic, the biggest Titanic artefact and the last remaining White Star Line vessel in the world, which provides a rich tangible and authentic piece of Belfast’s industrial heritage to its offering. For more information, visit www.titanicbelfast.com

not rest on our laurels and we are determined to build on our success, push boundaries and stay at the forefront of the industry. Through our Gallery Refreshment Programme, we aim to deliver a world-class spectacle that will continue to drive visitors to Belfast and Northern Ireland and will boost the interpretive and interactive galleries in an innovative way for future generations.”

Newbridge Silverware Newbridge: a silverware manufacturer and retailer, whose wares adorn the necks, wrists and pierced bits of the rich and famous.

With bespoke packages for operators including competitive trade rates, flexibility in amending numbers, dedicated account manager, complimentary coach parking and refreshments and benefits for groups including a dedicated welcome host, fast tracked entrance, souvenir tickets and hospitality options, it is and will continue to be a must see for tour groups to Ireland. The attraction has already redeveloped three of its nine galleries and added SS

The upstairs exhibition hall

There’s a special welcome for group organisers, but, no matter what the purpose of your visit, or the size of your party, experience the estate in all its glory for as long as your mood takes. Built as a baronial castle in 1867, Kylemore Abbey and the surrounding mountains and lakes are steeped in history. In equal measure, there’s tragedy, romance, royal visits and engineering innovation on the site, perched between the waters of the lake and the rocky hills behind. Kylemore became an abbey and home to a community of Benedictine Nuns in 1920, and has become an Irish icon of spirituality and education. kylemoreabbey.com

Free

Museum

Factory

Lifestyle

Café

OF STYLE ICONS

TOUR

STORE

EXPERIENCE

Visit our free museum housing a memorable collection of couture design, artifacts and fashion items that once belonged to some of the greatest style icons of modern times including Audrey Hepburn, Princess Diana, Marilyn Monroe & many others. Immerse yourself in Hollywood glamour.

Take a guided tour of the working factory floor and meet the people behind the traditional craft practiced at Newbridge Silverware since 1934. Learn about the time honoured processes and true-life stories at the heart of one of Ireland’s most wellknown and treasured brands. Advance booking essential.

Browse through the complete range of much loved Irish designed products in our stylish showroom. Here you will find all of the collections on offer from our jewellery and giftware to homeware and tableware. Tax free shopping for eligible customers from outside of the EU.

The award winning Café features freshly prepared local food with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or a sumptuous afternoon tea in a relaxed, stylish and friendly ambience. Indulge in freshly brewed artisan coffee in our partially covered glorious gardens.

Newbridge Silverware, Newbridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland.

Visitor Centre

Only 40 minutes from Dublin. Junction 10/12 on the M7. Open 7 days a week. Free coach and car parking. Groups welcome. Online booking available.

www.visitnewbridgesilverware.com

A Day to Remember

Share an unforgettable experience at the UK’s Centre of Remembrance Reasons to visit • 150 acres of beautiful woodland and gardens to explore • Free entry throughout the year • Easy coach parking • Designated coach drop off and pick up points • Coach friendly status

Ways to enjoy the Arboretum Explore the Arboretum at your leisure or try our: • Guided walks and memorial talks • Land train with audio commentary • Exhibitions • Dining packages • Buggy tours for small groups

Please visit our website for more information or call 01283 245 100 to plan your 2021 visit. National Memorial Arboretum Part of The Royal British Legion

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

T: 01283 245 100 E: groups@thenma.org.uk Charity No. 1043992