Inspirational Days Out

Prepare to be inspired

I Itt’’s s t tiimme e f foor r y yoou u a annd d y yoouur r g grroouup p to get out and about, now more than ever you and your group can do your bit to support and revitalise our hard h hiit t t trraavveel l a annd d l leeiissuurre e i inndduussttrryy, , with more and more venues opening up and desperate to see a return of their group visitors, offering generous d diissccoouunntts s a annd d b beessppookke e packages.

Why not visit somewhere you may not have considered before who knows you may get hooked, there is plenty to choose from whichever part of the country you are in or travelling to.

Seas the d ay wit h Caledonia n Ma

cB ra yne

It’s said that the sea air is good for the soul. Certainly, this year, more than most we could all do with a good measure of it. Whether you’ve been before or

you’ve yet to visit –let’s ‘seas the day’ and set sail for the islands of Scotland with Caledonian MacBrayne.

2021 also happens to be Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters – a timely opportunity to explore and celebrate the spectacular landscapes of the west. These are just some of the examples from the network we serve - from beaches that stretch for miles to caves with stories to tell. Visit calmac.co.uk for more.

Na tural wonders

The tiny island of Staffa, which lies to the west of Mull is home to Fingal’s Cave – a natural cathedral which inspired Mendelssohn to compose his Hebrides Overture. This spectacular island, formed of hexagonal basalt columns, is also a very busy breeding ground for seabirds each spring

and summer. A real natural wonder. On Arran – famously known as ‘Scotland in Miniature’ thanks to its mix of landscapes – lies the famous King’s Cave. History fans may know this as a location where King Robert the Bruce may have had his infamous encounter with a spider. The walk forms part of the Imachar to Blackwaterfoot section of the spectacular Arran Coastal Way – a rewarding walking route around the island.

Best sea views in Eur op e

The islands of Scotland are home to some of the best sea views in Europe, thanks to their pristine, white sands framed by the azure blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Earlier this year, West Beach, Berneray on the Outer Hebrides was voted one of the top three beaches in Europe by Lonely Planet seeing off competition from Portugal and Sicily.

You’ll find beach perfection several times over on Scotland’s islands from the peaceful coves of Coll, Colonsay’s Kilornan Bay to Islay’s Machir Bay which like the aforementioned stretches for over a mile.

Scotland’s islands offer the opportunity to ‘seas the day’ and make up for lost time.

Vis it ca lma c.co.uk for more.

CroisiEurope, plans restart of European river, canal and ocean cruises from June

Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has announced details of its planned restart of European river, canal and ocean cruises with a gradual resumption from June in strict compliance with the Bureau Veritas certified sanitary protocols. River and ocean cruises will resume in June while cruises on the

French canals will resume in July as follows:

Until 31st August, all cruises qualify for CroisiEurope’s relaxed booking conditions which include a full refund should the cruise be cancelled by CroisiEurope and moving a booking free of charge to any other departure in 2021 or 2022 more than 30 days prior to

departure. The safety and wellbeing of guests and crew remains CroisiEurope’s top priority and since last year the company has worked successfully with Bureau Veritas for the “SAFEGUARD” certification of its ships. The Safeguard Certification Label ensures the proper application of

Leger Shearings: ‘We literally can’t answer the volume of calls’

Leger Shearings Group is reporting record year-on-year bookings.

CEO Liam Race said bookings at the UK’s largest escorted coach tours company were up 220% “Sales have been incredible, we literally can’t

answer the volume of calls we are receiving and we have drafted staff in from other areas of the business to try and attempt to answer them as quickly as possible,” he said.

Other tour operators, including

TUI and Jet2holidays have also reported a swift uptick in bookings

preventive sanitary measures, which have been subject to a rigorous auditing process and confirm that crew members have been thoroughly trained to implement them. These measures will be further strengthened this year with the introduction of a new procedure, Test & Board, with guests needing to provide proof of vaccination or a negative PCR or rapid antigen test prior on embarkation. Further information about these measures can be viewed here

For res er va tions a nd further informa tion call Croisi Europe on 020 83 28 1281 or visit www.cr oisieur op e.co.uk

Travel by Numbers

Invites you for a great day out for all the family. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the National Park. From an ideal position - in a narrow gauge steam train!

Travel in one of our all-weather observation carriages behind a vintage steam locomotive to Torpantau, high in the Brecon Beacons. Trains run from February to the end of October and at Christmas. Enjoy our licensed tearooms, gift & souvenir shop, steam museum, lakeside cafe, picnic areas, children’s play area, model railway, locomotive workshop and restoration, special events, children’s birthday parties, free car and coach parking.

France covers more time zones than any country on the planet.

Mountain Railway, Pant Station, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48

Let’s Get Going Again ...

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AGTO MATTERS

Roadma ps and ti med tickets

The government’s much publicised r oadmap that has been instrumental in helping us navigate a way out of lockdown has now been mostly (at the time of writing) discarded in favour of caution and commonsense. But as Wendy Hartley-Scarff, chief executive of the Association of Group Travel Organisers (AGTO), says, bouncing back better may take a little while yet.

Whenever I heard the government talking about a roadmap I was reminded about those wonderful Ordnance Survey, Bartholomew or Michelin maps that I remember studying carefully before setting out on a car journey.

I also remember the challenge of folding them back up again!

Although online mapping is easy to use, perhaps the printed map, either in a foldout style or in an atlas, is still your preferred choice. But of course, in using the description ‘roadmap’ (one word), the government isn’t extolling the virtues of contour lines, places of interest and trigonometry points (and hill walkers will nod approvingly at that last reference). In lockdown parlance, roadmap means any plan or guide to show how something is arranged or can be accomplished. I saw one commentator defining it as a strategic plan that defines a goal or desired outcome and includes the major steps or milestones needed to reach it. Indeed, you can’t beat a good milestone to measure your journey.

Which neatly brings me to the journey that we’re all making. I’ve been really pleased to see a number of familiarisation trips taking place, giving GTOs the opportunity to get out and about again, visiting parts of the country they might not be familiar with, and finding

inspiration and ideas to take back to offer their groups. One of the benefits of AGTO membership is being able to read about the experiences of fellow GTOs, either on social media or in the reports that appear in the quarterly AGTO Magazine.

In the next issue, as an example, we’ll be featuring reports from a fam trip to Coventry UK City of Culture organised by Harry Shaw Group Travel, and a look at the Cotswolds on a trip organised by West Midlandsbased Dunwood Travel, both fams taking place in June.

The journey then seems to be progressing well, and you’ll be marking off your own milestones as you move from lockdown to being a free spirit once again. But being a free spirit might not be as easy as it should be.

Many visitor attractions require you to pick a time for your visit. These timed tickets help the attraction manage the flow of visitors, an important element of ensuring you have an enjoyable visitor experience. In pre-lockdown times you,

or more likely the coach operator, would have had a good idea how long a journey would take, with toilet stops and likely traffic conditions all generally known and factored in to the planning.

But now, understanding what traffic might be like can be less predictable.

Travel and commuter habits have changed. A quiet road could mean arriving at your destination too early.

Unexpected heavy traffic could mean arriving late, and the frowns of overzealous gate staff.

The good news is that many visitor attractions are on top of this. Gone are the 10, 15 or 20-minute timed slots, to be replaced by 30-minute or hourly slots. That takes the pressure off you as a GTO should you find yourself running late, or early, but it still helps the attraction to manage visitor flows. It’s a win-win for everyone.

As we hopefully all get to enjoy a late summer break, perhaps it’s time for a new road map – one showing approximate journey times for coaches. But let’s not forget the milestones!

Yarn Market Hotel

Dunster

Friendly family- run hotel in centre of historic medieval village in Exmoor National Park

* Groups Welcome large or small

* All rooms ensuite

* Large Restaurant

* Close to Dunster Castle and the West Somerset Steam Railway

* 10% discount off any stays booked direct with hotel

Tel: 01643 821425

Website: www.yarnmarkethotel.co.uk

Email: hotel@yarnmarkethotel.co.uk

Johnsons Journal

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

Whilst I haven’t managed to go out with my group during May, Ken and I with a couple of friends have been out looking

at possible places to visit in the future. Gardens during lock down, whilst houses and other indoor venues have been

closed, have been a lifesaver to many. These are just two that we visited.

Morton Hall Gardens near Redditch, which we visited during the early May bank holiday, links with The Royal Shakespeare Company and Bloms Bulbs for their annual Tulip Festival. The RSC costume department had several costumes on display the colours of which rivalled the tulips. It’s not a huge garden but it was lovely wandering around, getting ideas for planting and choosing which bulbs we wanted to order for our garden, and as a present for our son.

The Garden welcomes groups by appointment and offers a guided tour with the owner or

head gardener, followed by homemade refreshments. Bookings are available between April and the end of September on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays.

The second garden is to be found attached to Ashwood Nurseries near Kingswinford. The garden centre itself has a shop and excellent restaurant and the Nursery has been awarded 53 RHS Gold medals to date. The outdoor sales area is beautifully planted up BUT the reason we went was to visit John’s Secret Garden. It is open on selected days throughout the year. John Massey MBE, VMH (owner of Ashwood Gardens, nurseryman, plant breeder and collector) is a often seen wandering around the three acre private garden

Stratford-upo n-Avon

shutterstockClaudio Divizia

Morton Ha ll Ga rd ens

Now a caut ionar y t ale

In late 2020 I booked tickets for a London show. I had been sent from the outset an invoice showing all the seats that the theatre had allocated to the ticketing agents. Let me say now that I have used these agents, who are part of a big group, for some years now and never had any problems and I did look carefully at the tickets details when the invoice arrived. In January, having succeeded in selling only 28 tickets – a low number due to the uncertainty of COVID19 restrictions - I paid and was emailed a receipt. On the front page it detailed the tickets purchased. I didn’t print this out or re check; why would I? It was only a receipt.

with his two dogs, engaging in conversation with visitors. Set along side the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal it is regarded as one of the finest private gardens in the UK. There are many rare plants to be

the nursery to learn how they are grown.

There are full details on the websites for these two gardens about group visits.

seen and John and his team trial new plants and bulbs. There is a wild meadow with a bird hide looking down onto the canal.

Tickets for the Secret Garden need to be pre-booked and they do take groups by prior arrangement. The nursery breeds world-famous Hellebores which have won RHS Gold medals. From January to March groups can book a guided Hellebore Tour, where you go behind the scenes at

Staying with the Garden theme, at the end of June our group is looking forward to our visit to RHS Bridgewater. The recent BBC programme about its conception has really whetted everyone’s appetite. I have two coaches going with just 30 passengers on each as I wanted to be sure we could socially distance if the longedfor end of socially distancing didn’t happen on 21st June.

In March when someone asked if I could get any more tickets I went onto the theatre website to see if there were any seats showing that were close to those we already had. Imagine my horror when I saw that many were labelled as ‘restricted view’ including half the ones we had. I immediately contacted the agency who said they had told me this. No they hadn’t, verbally or on the original invoice. However, when I looked again at the receipt, there on the back page were the words ‘restricted’. We all know that once purchased you can’t get a refund but how do you ask or choose 14 people (out of a total of 28) who have all paid the same amount if they will accept a restricted view seat. The agency asked the theatre to swap the 14 seats, which they did BUT they were mostly singles and on the other side of the theatre from the rest of the group. I had only couples or one group of 3 who had to sit together. In the end I decided I would purchase premium seats at an extra £25 per ticket. The agent and I chose the tickets to ask for as, happily, they were next to our other unrestricted seats. That should have been that. 14 of the group were very happy to pay something towards the new cost and our club agreed to subsidise, in this instance, the difference. Although the email was sent and received on that same day it wasn’t actioned by the theatre

immediately, and in between they put up the price by £15 to £95 per ticket! When the new invoice arrived showing this AND a 10% commission because they were premium seats, which I hadn’t been told about, I really did think someone was having a laugh.

I contacted the agency’s management and had an immediate reply the outcome of which was that they honoured the £80 price and said they wouldn’t charge the commission this time. A good outcome but only achieved by persistence.

Lessons to be learned from this; check the theatre website first; don’t pay until you have been assured that none of the tickets are restricted view and ask that it is put in writing as well. Look as carefully at the receipt as you would the invoice. I have been told that my account handler – I didn’t have one before - will mark my account so I never get offered or receive restricted view again. In the agencies defence, it didn’t help that the agents and the box office staff at the theatre were all working from home and the agent who took over the complaint was only working part time.

Coa ch sea tin g

Those of you who have already been out and about and arrange your own coaches will no doubt also have had headaches over the coach seating plan whilst we have to have social distancing. Why is it that all the people who will not sit in the back half of the coach are those who want to get on at the first pick up point? I looked at a plan B, which was to have the coach pull up at the second pick up on the wrong side of the road, and people get on at the middle door. The steps there are too steep for some so onto Plan C. This is if you want the front then you have to come to a pick up point that is convenient for the rest of the group, even if its then inconvenient to you. Or you sit at the back.

Morton Ha ll Ga rd ens

Copyrite Morton Hall Gardens

Welcoming groups from this summer contact the team

Houses of Historical Interest

The King of Ca stles

Port Eliot House a nd Ga rd ens

Why Visit?

Port Eliot has the rare distinction of being a Grade 1 listed house with a Grade 1 listed park and garden. Like most houses, Port Eliot has a front door and about there the similarity ends. There are 11 staircases, 15 back doors and 82 chimneys.

With over 100 rooms, including attics, basements, cellars, butlers pantries, game larders, tunnels, Regency kitchens, salons, dressing rooms, studies, a library, ball room, servants quarters, vast gardens and a boat house, Port Eliot is a curious, individual and virtually unique location.

They host a variety of events throughout the year for full details please visit www port eli ot co uk

Grimst horpe Cast le, Pa rk and Gardens L incolnshire

G rimsthorpe has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Castle is the centrepiece of the Estate. It is a large quadrangular house with a central courtyard. Each section has a different appearance, reflecting the different

architectural styles that have been employed here since building began in the 13th century. Once inside you can see the collection of paintings, furniture, tapestries, and collections which fill the state rooms. Thrones and furnishings from the House of Lords are some of the more unusual items on view.

Gardens surround the Castle on three sides. To the South lies a formal lawn with topiary squares beyond. These contain small ornamental pools. Further from the Castle the garden becomes a semi-wild woodland garden, filled with spring bulbs. If you venture beyond this, you will reach the walled garden where an exhibition of lettering art is on show. To the West of the Castle a long herbaceous border provides colour during the summer months. The neatly trimmed yew hedge is cut low enough to give spectacular views to the lake. On the East of the Castle a formal rose parterre is lined with small box hedges. Beyond it lies a walled kitchen garden.

For more information, or to buy a Season Ticket, please visit the website

www grimsthorp e co uk

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 deta ils see the websi te www b amburghcast le com or cont act adminis trator @bamburgh cas tl e.com

Coventr y Cat hed ra l

With Coventry set to be UK City of Culture 2021 from May 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 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.

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

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

Sand en is an Arts and Craft s f amily home with Morri s & Co i nt eriors

Set in a beautiful hillside garden James and Margaret Beale chose an idyllic location with views across the Sussex countryside for their rural retreat. Designed by Philip Webb, the house is one of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts workmanship, with Morris & Co. interiors creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The house is dressed for a weekend stay in 1925, so you can imagine you are a guest of the family.

A major restoration of the 5hectare (12-acre) hillside garden showcases year-round seasonal highlights and an award-winning plant collection. On the wider estate, footpaths lead out into the woodlands, Ashdown Forest and wider High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

www nat iona ltrust org uk/sta nde n-house-a nd-ga rd en Tele: 0 13423 23029

Ema il

sta nden@na tional trust org uk

Nymans a ga rden lov ers' home for all seasons.

With an extensive yet intimate garden set around a romantic house and ruins.

A garden for all seasons, with rare and unusual plant collections, set around a romantic house and partial ruins. The comfortable, yet elegant, house reflects the personalities and stories of the talented Messel family. In spring see blossom, bulbs and a stunning collection of subtly

fragranced magnolias. The Rose Garden, inspired by Maud Messel’s 1920s design, is scented by hints of oldfashioned roses. Dramatic shows of vibrant native tree colour in autumn precede winter’s structural form, with pockets of perfumed daphne throughout the garden.

Discover hidden corners through stone archways, walk

Best of both worlds at Nymans & Standen

opportunities to spot wildlife. © National Trust 2021. Registered charity no. 205846.

nymans @national Photography © National Trust Images/Marianne Majerus/ James Dobson

uk www.nationalt ru st.org.uk/ny mans

THE SHOWS

PLEASE

SUPPORT BRITISH THEATRE

Tour Operators

Time to talk travel, these tour operators offer some of the best holidays around, so wherever you choose to go these operators have got it covered.

traditional afternoon tea in charming Lacock. What’smore,groups of more than 10+ receive up to 10% back of the total cost of the holiday. All that’s left to do, is decide where 2022 will take you...

Ca ll 01283 74 2322

Visit riviera gr oup s co uk Ema il gr oup s@ri viera tra vel co uk

Fred. Ol sen Cruise Lines unveils series of Briti sh Isl es and s cenic sai lings as it p repa res f or July resta rt

Plan ahead : Book your 20 22 gr oup holid ay with confid ence

They 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 us by the 30 June 2021 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 September 2021.

Rediscover Britain with Riviera

Looking to stay closer to home?

They’re delighted to announce that all their British Isles tour 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.

Why not soak up 6000 years of history on their Bath, Somerset and Glastonbury tour beginning in Bath, home to the iconic Royal crescent, Roman Baths and striking botanical gardens, perfectly blending Roman and Georgian influences. There’s so much history to embrace, as

you visit the likes of Glastonbury Abbey and Wells Cathedral, the earliest English Cathedral to be built in the Gothic style. Then of course there’s the Avebury stone circle and Lacock village, a place seemingly frozen in time. Then experience the taste of the local area, with an included visit to a family-owned artisan cheesemaker in Cheddar Gorge, and enjoy a

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.

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

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

“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.”

Daish’s UK Coa ch Holid ays Where Would You Like to Go?

If you’ve ever wanted to take a coach holiday in the UK, now’s the time. Daish’s Holidays makes it easy to get away from home with all-inclusive trips to many popular holiday destinations, including Kendal, Blackpool, Bournemouth, Weymouth, Eastbourne, Llandudno, Newquay, Torquay, Eastbourne and the Isle of Wight.

For over 40 years, the UK has

relied on them to provide the best domestic holidays with clean, comfortable hotel accommodations and first-rate coach transportation. Whether you’re going on a family holiday or a couples-only getaway, you won’t be disappointed with their friendly customer service and exceptional travel value.

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

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

CROISIEU ROPE LAU NCHES 202 2 WORLDWIDE P ROGRAMME

oceans. The 2022 programme is the company’s most expansive ever featuring 55 ships on 16 major rivers plus multiple tributaries, six French canals, two coastal routes plus repositionals, two ocean itineraries plus repositionals and Lake Kariba in Africa.

CroisiEurope – which this year celebrates 45 years of successful operation - has also announced details of an early booking offer of 15% off all 2022 itineraries made by 30th June 2021, as well as a number of 45th anniversary offers.

For res er va tions a nd further informat ion call CroisiE urope on 020 832 8 1 281 or visit www cr oisieur op e co uk

Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has launched its brand new 2022 programme featuring over 180 itineraries on some of the world’s finest rivers, canals and

London & South East

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.lond on-s tad ium.com

–

Secret World of Pl ants, 1 Ma y

19 Sep temb er 2 021

Visit Kew Gardens this summer and step into the Secret World of Plants a series of immersive art installations revealing the untold stories of their 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.

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 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.

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

gr oup s@kew org

Lond on St ad ium Tours

About London Stadium

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

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 here:

www.que enelizabetholy mpic park.c o.uk /t he-park/venues

It’s the capitol city, if you can’t find it here does it exist, but make no mistake a little bit further on and you’ll discover a world of exciting venues and attractions.

Heritage Railways

South Devon Rail wa y

The multi-award winning South Devon Railway is one of Devon’s and the West Country’s best loved tourist attractions and is the longest established steam railway in the south west, celebrating over 50 years in preservation.

Swa nage Rai lwa y

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.

The heritage railway attraction operates full-size steam and diesel passenger trains along the five and a half miles of line from Norden to Corfe Castle and down to the Victoria seaside town of Swanage.

The line has stations at Corfe Castle and Harman’s Cross as well as a halt at Herston, on the outskirts of Swanage.

There are refreshment buffets at Norden and Swanage stations with picnic tables at most of the stations so you can soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a picnic.

Their station shop at Swanage is well stocked with souvenirs, railway books and DVDs, a large selection of items for model railways as well as clothing, railway prints and gifts for all ages.

No group visit to Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole or Dorset will be complete without a journey on the Swanage Railway. They offer organised groups single or return journeys, so you can combine the visit to their railway

with a 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 their 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 swana gera ilwa y co uk

Your booking (for 20 or more passengers) includes reserved seats on specific train(s) and two free tickets for your driver and guide.

There is convenient coach drop off adjacent to Norden and Swanage stations and coach parking at Purbeck Park, next to Norden station, and a five minutes walk from Swanage station in the main beach car park. Corfe Castle Station is a few minutes walk from Corfe Castle.

The SDR is a seven mile former Great Western Railway branch line, built in 1872, which runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. They run steam trains with heritage rolling stock and offer a wonderful all day, all weather attraction for families and people of all ages.

Once they are back to normal and fully open again, you’ll be able to ride the South Devon Railway and, while you are with them, visit the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm and Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies: 3 Great Attractions, 1 Amazing Day.

Find them just off the A38 at Buckfastleigh, very close to the famous Buckfast Abbey, or by train to Totnes on the Great Western main line.

Buckfastleigh is around 22 miles from Exeter, 21 miles from Plymouth, 19 miles from Dartmouth and 13 miles from Paignton.

www s out hdevonrail wa y co uk

West Somerset Rail wa y

West Somerset Railway Group Bookings give passengers discounted train fares, seat reservations, reservation notices and the option to have catering from their special menu.

Pre-booked Groups of 16 passengers and above enjoy

discounted travel on the West Somerset Railway.

Please call 01643 700398 (Monday - Friday 9am4.00pm) or email gr oup s@wsra il net

They will check availability, and answer any questions you have asked them about dates, timings, prices and catering and get you booked in. They do not accept Group Bookings during special events, such as Steam and Diesel Galas. On Special Event Days and Galas ticket prices are slightly more. If you do wish to travel on these days they can sell you tickets at the special event advance rate, but cannot offer seat reservations or Group Catering other than buying food from the on train Buffet Car. They will require full payment for these tickets at the time of booking.

GENERAL INFORMATION

They have a maximum capacity of 120 pre-booked Group Travel seats on each train. However they are flexible in their arrangements wherever possible and will gladly add (subject to availability) additional coaches to meet your needs. It does make good sense to call early as they receive many bookings and the earlier you can confirm your date of choice they can book you in.

Please allow 30 minutes prior your departure time so that you can complete any paperwork at the Booking Office and get aboard in a relaxed manner, ahead of a quiet enjoyable journey through 20 miles of beautiful Somerset countryside.

www west-somers etrai lwa y co uk

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

North West

Strawberr y Fiel d

Strawberry Field is an inspirational heritage attraction, immortalised by John Lennon in The Beatles hit Strawberry Fields Forever, which opened in September 2019. The attraction, which has achieved the Good to Go’ accreditation, and its famous garden and new exhibition welcomes prebooked groups.

One of The Guardian’s ‘Fab Finds of the Year’, Strawberry Field won ‘Tourist Attraction of The Year’ at the inaugural Staycation Awards.

Previously the site of a former Salvation Army children’s home, Strawberry Field offers an exciting and emotional visitor exhibition and garden tour with media guides. The interactive exhibition is the place where ‘nothing is real’! Stories are told of the site’s history, John Lennon’s childhood and the writing and recording of the famous song as told by his close friends and family.

www straw berr yf ieldliverpool com/ visiting-us-d uring-cor ona virus

Sout hport – a brea th of fresh air

With its wide shopping boulevards, award-winning beach and coastline, spectacular gardens and magnificent pier, Southport has long been recognised as one of the UK’s leading group-friendly destinations.

Now, as GTOs look to reassure their groups and restore confidence in travel, Southport’s mix of wide shopping boulevards and wide open spaces, combined with all the fresh air that goes with being a coastal resort, is proving attractive for an enjoyable and safe day out.

Enjoy a walk along the pier or by Marine Lake, or a stroll on the beach, then relax in beautiful King’s Gardens. Discover Lord Street, the unique Victorian-canopied, tree-lined shopping boulevard, and enjoy Southport’s famous outdoor café culture.

Adding to the town’s vibrant food scene, 2021 sees the opening of the new Southport Market, a purpose-built food hall that will champion local artisan suppliers.

Combine time in the town with visits to Crosby Beach and Anthony Gormley’s worldfamous art installation ‘Another Place’, 100 iron lifesize statues staring out to sea. Martin Mere Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) offers 800 acres of wide open space to see rare birds and pink flamingos. Visit historic Churchtown with its thatched roof cottages, and the nearby Botanic Gardens.

Coaches can drop off right in the heart of the town, and there’s a purpose-built, secure coach park with a whole day’s parking for just £5.

For more information, go to www.vis itsouthport.com, or email Steve Christian, destination development manager, at st eve chri stia n@sefton gov uk

No surprise that the 3rd most densley populated area in the United Kingdom,a vibrant and exciting area has a plethera of fantastic things to do, see and visit.

The Winter’s Tale and The Comedy of Errors are supported by RSC Season Supporters Charles Holloway

Ludl ow Farm Shop

The Ludlow Farmshop – a oneof-a-kind shopping environment where farming, passion for great food and retail come together to create an awardwinning experience.

They are part of the Earl of Plymouth’s Oakly Park Estate which extends to 8,000 acres of Shropshire countryside of which they farm 6,500 acres. All of their beef, lamb and Gloucester Old Spot pork comes from their own farm along with the milk used to make their cheese and dairy products. They have a herd of wild fallow deer and a bountiful supply of wild game at certain times of year.

You can buy from them, eat with them and stay with them–iit’s really up to you!

www

Take your gr oup to St ra tfordupon-Avon for outsta nding

t hea tre, fa scinati ng exhib itions, g uided theatre tours

PE RFORMANCES

Performing the works of Shakespeare, his contemporaries and new writing all year round at their home in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Gr oup p rices

10+ pay £39.50 per ticket

(Royal Shakespeare Theatre) or £29.50 per ticket (Swan Theatre) 50+ pay £37.50 per ticket

(Royal Shakespeare Theatre) or £27.50 per ticket (Swan Theatre) 100+ pay £34.50 per ticket

(Royal Shakespeare Theatre) or £24.50 per ticket (Swan Theatre) 200+ please contact them to discuss your booking

Group ticket discounts are available on Premium price, A price and B price seats for Monday to Friday performances.

www.rsc.org.uk

The d e Havil land Ai rcra ft Museum welcomes g roup vis its

NEW -Exclusive

Comet Jet airliner Group Toursnow available

The tours are an opportunity to discover why the Comet was such an innovative aircraft, the challenges of early jet air travel and how the Comet was developed to become a very successful airliner.

The expert Museum staff will be hosting exclusive group tours of the interior of the Comet 1a and Comet 4 simulator for up to 5* visitors every Saturday.

PLUS- They regularly host groups from U3A, Rotary Clubs, Cubs, Brownies and Scouts, Classic Car Clubs, Motorbike Clubs, visitors from overseas as well as Birthday parties for all ages, Reunions and Club and Company visits.

Group visits are specialized 2 hour guided tours of the

Museum by the Curator, who provides a personal insight into the work of the Museum and its Collection. The tour includes hot or cold drinks and light refreshments.

Group Day Visits during the Open Season – £18.00 per person

Group Evening visits during open season – £25.00 per person

Group visits during closed season or on a day when the museum is closed during the open season – £30.00 per person

For Gr oup v isits cont act the Genera l M anag er – e-ma il Aeroshop@d eha villa ndmuseu m.co.uk

www dehavi lland mus eum co uk /vi sit-us/g roup-vis its/

ludl owfa rmshop co uk

Canterb ur y Cat hed ra lWelcoming Gr oup s B ack with New E xperiences

Canterbury Cathedral is the jewel in Kent’s crown- UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion, and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. With a tradition of visitor welcome stretching back to medieval pilgrims, the Cathedral is again opening its doors after lockdown to greet today’s travellers. Inside this architectural marvel a wealth of treasures from stunning stained glass to beautiful stonework is waiting to be

discovered, while outside, tranquil Precinct gardens or atmospheric Cloisters offer peaceful places to pause and reflect during any visit.

The Cathedral’s stories have helped shape England, from Thomas Becket’s martyrdom through to surviving the Blitz during WW2. With King Henry IV and the Black Prince also entombed here, there is so much to discover, whether you are visiting for the first time or rediscovering this stunning landmark, and your group can share this 1,400-year history. Private guided tours and ‘behind the scenes’ experiences are available to enhance group visits, while new facilities from an exciting Visitor Centre to an enlarged shop ensure there is always more to explore. The Cathedral are also offering groups a unique, bookable Group Welcome on entry, featuring a short introductory talk about the Cathedral’s history and highlighting points of interest to look out for, providing a lowcost way of offering an

added-extra for your group.

A guided Precincts Tour is also new for groups this year, featuring a tour of the outdoor spaces and quiet corners of the 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. visit senq uiri es@ ca nterbur y-ca thedral.org

Milestones

From cobbled streets, teddy bears to vintage vehicles, there is so much for everyone to see, do and enjoy at Milestones, Hampshire’s museum of living history!

Life in Hampshire past Milestones tells the story of how people used to live, the things they used and the work they did. The maze of Victorian and 1930s streets is packed with shops, factories and houses,

most based on original buildings from in and around Basingstoke.

If your group enjoys shopping, you’ll discover what the high street was like before the arrival of chain stores: the milliner, saddler and ironmonger all offer a glimpse into shopping habits of the past. While you are at the museum, you’ll bump into one of their costumed interpreters. Dressed in authentic period costume, you may find them telling a story about the past, playing a record in the gramophone shop or even serving a pint in the Baverstock Arms!

Discounted prices are available for groups of 15 or more visiting at the same time.

www.mi les tonesmuseum.org.uk

An award winni ng ind ep end ent mus eum wit h remarka ble collections of nat ura l his tor y, huma n hi stor y a nd geology

The Museum offers a lively programme of events and

BOOK YOUR GROUP NOW!

A fascinating living history museum with Victorian streets, shops from the past, vintage vehicles, working pub, costumed characters and more!

• Discounts for pre-booked groups of 15+

• Special packages available

• Welcoming café with a wide selection of refreshments

NEW FOR 2021

MR SIMPSON’S UNRIVALLED COLLECTION OF EVERYONE’S FAVOURIT E T OY

EXPERIENCE THE UNIQUE MILESTONES PIER COMPLE TE WITH TR ADITIONAL PENNY A RCADE!

FIND OUT HOW TO BOOK YOUR GROUP AT milestonesmuseum.org.uk

exhibitions and has a wonderful tradition of learning for all ages and abilities.

Set in beautiful historic grounds in the heart of Haslemere, the rich and diverse collections have been inspiring visitors for more than one hundred years.

Haslemere Educational Museum was founded in 1888 by the eminent surgeon Sir Jonathan Hutchinson to display his growing collection of natural history specimens. After two moves it found in 1926 a permanent home in Haslemere High Street, in the town of Haslemere, Surrey

Genera l enq uiries

Tel: + 44 (0)1428 64 2112

Email:

en quiri es@ha slemeremuseum co uk

Cold harbour Mill: Bringing the pas t to lif e!

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 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.

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 selfguided tours and are situated only 5 minutes from M5, Junction 27 – making Coldharbour Mill a great day out or perfect for a quick stopoff.

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 on-site shop.

Book now by v isit ing www cold ha rb ourmill org uk

Pi cton Ca stle

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.

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 awardwinning castle and garden for all seasons. Dogs on leads are always welcome.

2 miles south of the A40 Open All Year

The Rhos, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA62 4AS

014 437 7513 26

E: inf o@p ict oncas tle.co.uk www pictoncastl e co uk

Steer your gr oup to Leighton’s t wo t hrill ing new ‘ p er fect d ays out ’

Proudly partnering with the Lakeland Motor Museum and Windermere Lake Cruises, Leighton Hall’s two new ‘perfect days out’ invite you to celebrate getting back on the road in 2021. Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Windermere, or a morning of exhilarating motoring history, before a ’famously friendly’ exclusive tour of the Historic Hall’s Gillow craftsmanship.

Both include time to enjoy Leighton’s glorious gardens, charming traditional tearoom, and birds of prey flying display (summer season, weather permitting.

Now offering seven half and full day exclusive group tours all year round, there’s something to suit every interest. From a Brief Encounter at Carnforth Heritage Centre, to a lavish afternoon tea or candlelit Christmas festivities, groups enjoy exclusive access, so book

in advance to secure a bright summer season and beyond. Winners at the UK National Coach Awards, Leighton and partners’ tried and tested norush, Covid-safe itineraries guarantee minimal travel, excellent value for money, free coach parking, driver rest area and refreshments.

See www leightonhal l co uk or ca ll 0 1524 73 4474 for a pleasurab ly si mp le, f riendly, one-stop booki ng p r oces s.

Sp ecta cula r ga rd ens & cast le

Hampton Court Castle is open to the public from Spring to Autumn and hosts numerous events throughout the year.

The gardens and grounds are now open, with the exception of the Maze and the Gothic Tower. Coronavirus precautions are in place so that social distancing can be maintained. The Orangery Cafe will be offering a limited menu with both inside and outside seating. The Ice Cream Parlour and the

Gift Shop will remain closed.

The Castle is open for selfguided tours only. These are available between 11am and 4pm and entrance to the castle tour is in the Orangery Cafe. For more information and FAQs about this please visit their coronavirus FAQs page.

In addition to their continuous Spring to Autumn season, public events normally run throughout the year. Please check their What’s On page for their 2021 events calendar and follow themon Facebook and Instagram for any updates.

Opening times and prices may vary on special event days. Discounts for group bookings are available

Food and drink are available from the Orangery Cafe, and they also have a Gift Shop on site.

Let’s remember what we love about our west coast

Visit for inspiration, for when it’s safe to travel

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: ticketoce@hamptoncourtcastle.co.uk