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2018 CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
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THE THREE DEGREES: ‘THE UK’S OUR SECOND HOME!’
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WHAT WILL YOU EXPERIENCE ON YOUR NEXT GROUP ADVENTURE? EUROPEAN & WORLDWIDE ESCORTED TOURS FOR GROUPS 2018/2019 Riviera Travel offers a wide selection of European and worldwide escorted tours, plus luxury four and five-star river cruises, exciting journeys by rail and once in a lifetime tall ship adventures – something to suit everyone’s taste and budget, whether travelling as a group or as an individual.
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WHY CHOOSE RIVIERA TRAVEL? y Unbeatable value, such as four days in Paris from only £279pp y No hidden extras and a ‘No Surcharge’ guarantee y An extensive programme of excursions all included in the price y Award winning tours with unbeatable service y Full financial protection through ABTA and ATOL y Regional flights and rail connections† y Escorted throughout by professional and knowledgeable Tour Managers
01283 742322
www.groupsriviera.co.uk For group enquiries: groups@rivieratravel.co.uk Web:
Please mention Group Travel World July 2018 when you book Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton on Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP. ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430 protected. Prices are based on two people sharing a twin room. Additional entrance costs may apply. *Some elements are not commissionable, including upgrades, insurance premiums and some supplements – ask for full details. †Supplements applicable for certain regional stations. A commission invoice will be requested from the group leader in the month following that of the departure.
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ABTA No. V4744
10/07/2018 20:26
Welcome
A word from the editor Years ago, when I worked for a women’s
See for yourself when our 20-page special
magazine, our cohorts would chuckle away at
starts on 34. Think I’ll put my name down for a
the sight of us all tucking into mince pies and
Christmas markets cruise, washed down by a
Christmas pudding in high summer, debating at
few glasses of glühwein. And I might just add
great length the pros and cons of brandy
that while it’s been quite relaxing having to
butter versus custard as we wilted under the
simply write about Christmas and not taste
office heat. We were planning our Christmas
test 30 different brands of mince pie, if anyone
issues in July and by the time Christmas rolled
has any they’d like to send us, we won’t say no!
round we were thinking of next summer’s must-have swimming cossie. Sound familiar? In this market we’re constantly one or
In other news, we’re making the most of the here and now for once as we help you get your outdoor adventure underway. So if our
■ See grouptraveloffers.com for cut-price attraction tickets Group Travel World Magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard: 01733 293487 Web: www.grouptravelworld.com – and www.grouptraveloffers.com for attraction tickets ISSN: 2048-3392 EDITORIAL
Editor: Helen Milbank
two seasons ahead of ourselves, which
fantastic cover image has got you itching
E. helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com
is why this is the first of our two
to take to the water, turn to page 28 to
Christmas issues. Even though it’s July.
discover the joys of kayaking, white water
Designer: David Hiles E: david.hiles@d15design.com
I’ve actually quite enjoyed skipping
rafting and coasteering. There, you see,
summer and mentally diving into all
that’s two seasons wrapped up in one
things festive, and it’s good to see
issue. What value for money...
a fair few exciting events planned for this winter.
Thanks to: Adam Jacot de Boinod, Darren Calpin, Cindy Ng, Jemma Keegan, Sue Parslow, Mike Pickup, John Sansom, Chris Wales and Angela Youngman ADVERTISING
Advertising Manager: Julie Cousins T: 01733 293242 E: julie.cousins@grouptravelworld.com Client Manager: Paige Fraser T: 01733 293245 E: paige.fraser@grouptravelworld.com
Page 58
Sales Executive: Karen Newton T: 01733 293489 E: karen.newton@grouptravelworld.com Sales Executive: Abi Paige T: 01733 293481 E: abi.paige@grouptravelworld.com SUBSCRIPTIONS/MARKETING
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Marketing Executive: Emily Dougall T: 01733 293483 E: emily.dougall@grouptravelworld.com GROUP TRAVEL OFFERS
PIXABAY
Trade account managers: 01733 293249 MANAGEMENT
General Operations Manager: Harley Denham T: 01733 293249 E: harley.denham@grouptravelworld.com Publisher: Jonathan Taylor E: jonathan@grouptravelworld.com
MAIN COVER IMAGE: PIXABAY
© 2018 GTW Media Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.
This issue we’re celebrating the great outdoors – see page 28
Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @GTWMagazine, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/grouptravelworld and join our Linkedin group Group Travel World Magazine
Group Travel World magazine is read by
leading UK and European coach operators, as well as active group travel organisers, representing more than 1,000,000 travellers.
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ASSOCIA ASSOCIATION
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102 Chukkas away! How you can learn to play polo in the city of London
RHS
WBT/ANIBAL TREJO
76 Discover the secrets behind the southern Belgium town of Dinant
80 Spa days and beauty packages
PIXABAY
34 Christmas has come early!
PIXABAY
96 As Gatwick airport marks its 60th we celebrate its most famous flyers
114 Actress Lara Pictet on travel, adventure
4 WWW.GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM
004-005 GTW Jul 18 Contents.indd 4
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and
ure
Contents Regulars 6 Let’s go...
Discover the delights of Flims in the Swiss Alps
8 15 minutes with...
The Three Degrees’ Helen Scott on her love for travel and the UK
10 News
We catch up on the world of travel
60 Industry insider
News from the Coach Tourism Association
61 Theatre news & reviews The latest from theatreland
98 UKinbound
Discover the joys of an Active England Tour
RHS
102 Expert Q&As
36 What’s on at the UK’s best-loved houses and gardens
Your questions answered
110 Readers’ letters
You share your news and photos
112 Puzzle pages
Try our quizzes and puzzles every month
114 And finally...
We talk travel and adventure with Lara Pictet
Features 14 A passion for Puglia
Explore Italy’s glorious Puglia region
18 Eight of the best...
Days out for families and groups
24 Let battle commence
This autumn’s best living history events
28 Hit the slopes
Plan your next outdoor adventure
34 Christmas is coming
Get set for the festive season. In July! We reveal the best events for 2018
46 Bring on the glühwein!
Christmas markets, outlet centres and more
48 Dine in style
Ideas to help get your festive feast started, plus dine like a true Dane in Copenhagen
52 The great escape
Our pick of the best Christmas getaways
72 Plain sailing
Not sure is cruising’s for you? Then read on...
76 Sax in the city
Explore Southern Belgium and all its quirks
80 The sweet smell of success Perfume workshops and spa breaks
82 Blooming lovely
Discover the delights of the north east – then head to Buckinghamshire and Surrey
90 A great craic
Fantastic people, fine food: enjoy the Dublin vibe
and setting sail
96 Come fly with me
We celebrate Gatwick airport’s 60th birthday WWW.GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM
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Let’s go...
SWISS ALPS
Flims, Switzerland Just a short hop from Zurich (a pretty hour-and-a-half’s drive, to be precise), the Swiss Alpine resort of Flims is a feast for the senses. Think stunning scenery, beautiful mountain lakes, the 400m deep Rhine Gorge – known as Switzerland’s Grand Canyon – and the soaring peaks of UNESCO World Heritage Site the Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Heading there with fellow walkers or mountain bikers? You’ll love the 250km of hiking trails and 330km of mountain bike routes. Planning just to sight-see? Flims is home to some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes and natural wonders. The region plays host to events throughout the summer season, including September’s famous ‘Flimserstein Alpabzug’, when the mountain cows are walked back down the valley from their lush pastures, accompanied by traditional music. It’s also one of few locations in the world where visitors can see how mountains are formed, with a clear line showing two separate tectonic plates coming together. Have we tempted you yet? Plan your trip to the region at www.flims.com/en
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15 minutes with...
Helen Scott Renowned for their soulful voices and fabulous stage shows, The Three Degrees have been continuously touring for over 40 years. Here, Helen, who’s been a member of the group since 1976, shares her travel experiences
T
HE UK ALWAYS feels like a second
go home. We did get to see the Anne Frank
home to us because we’ve been here
Museum while in Holland as one of the
so much. The audiences are great. If we’re
newspapers arranged it. We’d never been
living here for two or three months we like
there before and it was quite an experience.
to learn how everything works and we
Travel is obviously very important to us
use the buses and the underground rather
because we perform all over the world.
than taxis. The underground is wonderful
But it’s not always a good experience
because it’s colour-coded, so you don’t
– especially of late with so many things
get lost. I went to the Tower of London
changing in airports. It has become much
recently to see the crown jewels. They were
harder to travel; it’s not just the policies of
absolutely magnificent, especially the Star
the airlines, but the security systems going
of Africa. The Beefeaters had to keep asking
through airports. Nothing is co-ordinated.
me to move along as I was so enthralled.
At some airports you have to take your
Japan is another favourite place. It’s a long haul, but worth it for the culture and the experience. We’ve been to so
40 Years of Disco Next year, The Three Degrees are headlining at the 40 Years of Disco Arena Tour, featuring the Village People, The Trammps, Imagination feat. Leee John, The Gibson Brothers, The Real Thing and Odyssey. The tour takes in four arena dates, starting on March 21, 2019. To buy tickets, visit tdpromo.com/ 40-years-of-disco-2
shoes off, at others you don’t. Sometimes
Tarmac in Dubai. We had to find costumes
you remove belts, at others you don’t.
urgently, which wasn’t easy as we’re all
We have to take so much with us when
different sizes and needed three of everything.
many different temples in Japan and it is
we travel. We carry all kinds of cosmetics as
so beautiful at cherry blossom time.
we never know what’s going to happen, like a
as I like being by the water. It’s a peaceful
sudden TV interview. We travel with five foot
existence, and when I’m out there on the water
high trunks that contain all our costumes.
I just love it. We are doing a cruise to Norway
I’d say 99% of our travel is due to work. This leg of our tour started in Japan, we went home for one day then travelled to
We were going through Dubai once on a
My favourite form of travel is by cruise ship
next year and I’ve promised my 12-year-old
flight to London. We got to London and couldn’t
grandson that I’ll take him with me to see
here in the UK two days ago and then we
find the trunks – they were still sitting on the
the Northern Lights.
VISIT ENGLAND/HRP
Europe, had four days in Amsterdam, arrived
GTW
Helen is a huge fan of the Tower of London
8 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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WHATSONSTAGE | BIRMINGHAM MAIL | WHAT’S ON BIRMINGHAM | MUSICAL THEATRE REVIEW
‘TINSEL-TASTIC. A HEARTFELT HIT FOR ALL AGES’ THE TIMES
UK TOUR 2018 COVENTRY BELGRADE
GLASGOW KING’S THEATRE
NOTTINGHAM THEATRE ROYAL
REGENT THEATRE, STOKE
LIVERPOOL EMPIRE
MILTON KEYNES THEATRE
EDINBURGH FESTIVAL THEATRE
OXFORD NEW THEATRE
23 – 28 Oct
31 Oct – 4 Nov
7 – 11 Nov
14 – 18 Nov
21 – 25 Nov
28 Nov – 2 Dec
5 – 8 Dec
EVENTIM APOLLO, LONDON HAMMERSMITH I 19 – 31 Dec nativitythemusical.com
SPARKLING GROUPS RATES AVAILABLE
11 – 15 Dec
News
Prague
beckons...
How gorgeous does this scene look? And
“As well as providing plenty of new ideas
you can see it for yourself next year thanks to
for places to visit in our new 2019 brochure,
Albatross Travel. Its new range of tours include
there are travel tips from the Albatross team
the Grand Imperial Cities of Europe (which
and feedback from coach drivers,” says
takes in Prague along the route, as pictured
Denise Bridges, MD of Albatross Travel.
here), as well as three group tours to Norway.
To grab a copy see albatrosstravel.com
Explore Prague with Albatross Travel
Happy 40th birthday to Daish’s Holidays To celebrate a milestone birthday next year,
Isle of Wight group attractions, including
Daish’s Holidays is planning a special 40th
Carisbrooke Castle, Osborne House and the
anniversary Daish’s Celebration Showcase.
Isle of Wight Railway. Return travel with a car
The event, from October 2-6, 2019 will
on board Wightlink Ferries is also available.
be based at the original Daish’s Hotel in the heart of Shanklin on the Isle of Wight. Working with group travel specialists
“We’re looking forward to celebrating in style with GTOs when they arrive at Daish’s Hotel in Shanklin, which has
Out of this world
Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium is
Steve Reed Tourism, GTOs as well as coach
recently had a £1.5m refurbishment,” says
inviting groups and families to tour the galaxy
and tour operators are being invited to sign
Martin Jenkins, Groups and Travel Trade
on board Explorer: Space, a new immersive
up for the event, which involves a four-night
Manager for Daish’s Holidays. To book
experience that opens this month.
dinner, bed and breakfast stay in Daish’s
your place call 01420 560288, or email
Hotel with fam visits to some of the top
steve@stevereedtourism.co.uk
With hands-on exhibits covering everything from meteorites to stardust, Explorer: Space is unlike anything the Hampshire-based attraction’s seen before, taking up the entire ground floor of the Science Centre. Book at least three days in advance for a 25% discount, see winchestersciencecentre.org
THIS MONTH WE LOVE... ...the new wine tours and plush glamping accommodation on offer for groups at Shropshire’s Hencote vineyard estate. See hencote.com
10 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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MIX WITH THE GLAMOUR OF THE 1930s Immerse yourself in the Art Deco era, taste the spirit of the past.
Eltham, Greenwich SE9 5QE
To book a visit call 020 8294 2548 or email eltham.palace@english-heritage.org.uk The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
PHILLIP/SUSIE
NCG
MARKETING
TRAVEL TRADE
4819
JANE THOMAS
TRAVEL TRADE
LANDSCAPE ADVERT
134X190 LANDSCAPE
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ELTHAM AD FOR TRAVEL TRADE
03.7.18
DOWNTON ABBEY
ENGLISH HERITAGE, BRAND & DESIGN TEAM, THE ENGINE HOUSE, FIREFLY AVENUE, SWINDON SN2 2EH • TELEPHONE 01793 414451
& Bath Christmas Market
E XC LU S IV DAT E
Enjoy a truly unique opportunity to visit Highclere Castle, filming location of the much loved Downton Abbey TV series, which opens its doors exclusively for our customers on Monday 10th December.
visit the award-winning Bath Christmas Market. Set against stunning backdrops such as Bath abbey, the market is the perfect way to take in the seasonal atmosphere.
Home to the Carnarvon family since 1679, the current castle is one of England’s most beautiful Victorian castles and at this time of year will be seasonally festooned with garlands on the staircase and a 22ft tree in the Salon. Walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters and explore what it is like behind the scenes of the ‘real Downton Abbey’ at a magical time of year. We’ll also
Your Break Includes Return coach travel 99 1 night bed and breakfast at our 99 selected hotel
Visit to Bath Christmas Market 99 Exclusive visit to Highclere Castle 99 Tailor-made visits en route 99
justgoholidays.com 01242 265748 ● groups@jgtravelgroup.com Call our experienced, friendly groups team today for more information, or just for a chat Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions which are based on and protected by the Bonded Coach Holiday Group Trading Charter. Terms and conditions can be viewed at www.justgoholidays.com. All holidays offered are subject to availability and prices to fluctuation. Errors & omissions excepted. Single supplements apply.
E
Other Festive Breaks • Turkey & Tinsel • New Year in London and Dine & Cruise • Thursford Christmas Spectacular • André Rieu in Liverpool, Nottingham or Glasgow
Christmas Markets • Bath & Blenheim • Durham & Beamish • York & Chatsworth • Grassington & Manchester
News
Free for you! This pretty necklace
worth £9.99
is yours for free* *Just pay £4.99 p&p
Join the GTW team for our free fam trip to Eltham Palace in Greenwich on September 18. For details see grouptravelworld.com /fam-trips
Emma keeps her eyes peeled for the Hairy Bikers
What a show that was... The Group Travel World team were out in force for last month’s Cambridgeshire
This month, treat yourself to this pretty elephant charm pendant, which hangs on a dainty silver chain. It’s yours for free! (Just pay £4.99 p&p and order before August 14, 2018)
Buy any two for
The GTW bunting’s out!
£14.99
Food & Drink Festival, rubbing shoulders with the likes of James Martin and the Hairy Bikers. We lost a gazebo in high winds but, not to be defeated, an emergency one was found! A big hello to all our lovely new subscribers who signed up to the magazine at the show – and keep an eye on the website for details of next year’s event at cambridgeshirefoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk If you’re keen to get into the festival spirit
■ The
Great British Food Festival at Bowood
House in Wiltshire, from August 25-27
through the rest of the summer, here’s our pick
■ The
of the best 2018 foodie events:
from September 7-9
■ Peterborough
■ Newmarket
Cathedral’s Gin and Rum
Festival, from August 24-25
AND THERE’S MORE!
Tower of London Food Festival, Food and Drink Festival,
September 15
Travel merger bring a fantastic level of choice for
with Western & Oriental in a move that
our clients, offering our broadest ever
strengthens its position as a leading provider
selection of holidays under one banner
of both luxury beach and bespoke,
and really setting us apart from the
multi-centre holidays.
crowd,” says Jennifer Atkinson, Chairman
“The merging of Western & Oriental with Inspiring Travel Company will
Bumblebee charm
Bird charm
Dolphin charm
Flamingo charm
£9.99
Last month saw ITC Travel Group merge
£9.99
at ITC Travel Group. Find out more at inspiringtravelcompany.co.uk
£9.99
The Explorer has landed Groups Direct’s latest brochure, The Explorer, features a range of day excursions for groups across the UK. Call free on 0800 049 8309 for a copy or see the new-look website groupsdirect.co.uk
GTW
£9.99
TO ORDER GO TO:
grouptravelworld.com/gtwshop
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A passion for
PUGLIA Adam Jacot de Boinod explores the Mediterranean lanes, lemon orchards and trulli houses of Italy’s Puglia region
dappled lane, overgrown with weeds, was a ‘for sale’ sign, inviting me to nose further into a courtyard deep with neglect but rich with promise. The caretaker took me round and then popped me into his car to show me other masserias nearby. They all had grand limestone entrances, wide courtyards, copious outhouses and gorgeous steps leading up to the main solid farmhouse; they all had lemon and orange orchards and vegetable gardens itching to be re-loved. Glimpses of a bygone romantic era.
FIRST CLASS CHIC I was to stay first at Masseria Le Carrube (masserialecarrubeostuni.it). Effortlessly
P
chic, it’s why boutique hotels are often UGLIA IS BEST known for its conical-
area of the Mediterranean so far south, as
the best. Intimate and personal, it’s a true
shaped ‘trulli’, the unique dwellings that
well as in the wonderfully life-enhancing,
hideaway discretely signposted as it led me
enjoyed their golden age in the 19th century
spacious and whitewashed farmhouses
down a long route of winding lanes. It hides in
and remain predominantly intact, and in
called ‘masseria’.
a blissfully peaceful spot and is cradled at the
greatest concentration, around the town of
I became so enthralled by their sensual
Alberobello. But marvellous and endearing
delights I set out to explore more of them
base of surrounding mountains, overlooking the Adriatic and a mere six kilometres away
though they undoubtedly are, for me the
locally with my hotel’s bicycle. House-
from the renaissance city of Ostuni.
real joy is in the extraordinary fertility for an
hunting for fun. Ten minutes later, down a
There’s a liberating sense of space
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Italy both inside and out; even at full capacity it felt as though I had the place virtually to myself. Ranch-style walls encompass the widespread courtyards, and the lemon trees in the patios keep the senses engaged. Inside metal and wicker ware blend well to evoke the farmhouse’s history; the hues are natural and neutral and refreshingly no pictures are necessary as it’s all sufficiently picturesque. The interior is very simple with nooks and crannies now turned into chill-out areas.
menus using seasonal vegetables that are locally sourced. Le Carrube means a
PHOTOS: PIXABAY
A brave and progressive decision was taken to offer healthy vegetarian-only
Trulli amazing: the 19th century houses of Alberobello
locust-bean (in the pea family) and is
HERITAGE BY DESIGN
offered at breakfast with its flower tasting
I later stayed at Masseria San Domenico
treatments that are all highly restorative and
very much like chocolate. The meals
(masseriasandomenico.com/en), a sister
balancing. But that’s not all! Do you know
commence with traditional breadbaskets
hotel in the same group. The rooms are
what any of the following are: cromotherapy,
comprising of frittelle di ceci (chickpea
mini-apartments decorated and furnished
neomorphose, thermogenesis, algotherapy,
medallions), to be followed by an assortment
with the hotel’s signature style that employs
aromaceane, pressotherapy or hyaluronic?
of courgette, fennel, artichoke, zucchini,
traditional homely ceramics and pictures; all
Not to mention aparatology and gommage?
aubergine, tomatoes and almonds adorned
in keeping with the heritage of Puglia, a region
Both manual techniques and high-tech
respectively with pecorino, parmigiana or
of the Mediterranean with its own unique
beauty equipment make this a spa at the
cream cheeses.
style of ceramics.
height of modernity – half scientific, half
The hotel’s amazingly equipped spa boasts
The Puglia region, which forms the heel of Italy’s ‘boot’, is home to hundreds of miles of Mediterranean coastline WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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15
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Italy
Masseria San Domenico
human intuition. Borgo Egnazia, another of
town of Martina Franca who fell in love with
the chapels and shrines and make ‘orecchiette
the sister hotels, comes with its own golf course
a beautiful girl from Grottaglie and decided
con le cime di rapa’ (little eared pasta with
and neighbouring beach restaurant. It was
to marry her.
broccoli heads).
conceived only 10 years ago and has developed a strong luxurious feel.
The widespread ‘ius primae noctis’ or ‘right
I also went to the town of Polignano a Mare.
of the first night’ (where the lord of the manor
Laughter was all around me, lunches were taken
The golf course comes up beside part of the
had the right to possess the future bride) incited
al fresco, and boats luxuriously lapped the
long strip of coastline that’s dotted with popular
the jealousy of this husband-to-be, and in order
azure waters hugging the coastline, with proud
resorts between Monopoli and Brindisi, the
to escape the unacceptable dishonour of letting
skippers taking their protégés into caves and
latter being a city from which, along with Bari
his wife be deflowered by the lord, he decided
beneath grottos that include Grotta Palazzese,
further north, the Italians hop over to Greece,
to dress up as a woman and take the place of
the famous restaurant set in a natural cave
typically more regularly incidentally than the
his future bride.
from which bow-tied diners look down from
Greeks do to Italy.
ITALIAN LEGEND
Unfortunately he forgot to cut off his
a giddying height.
moustache and was identified straight away and brought to trial. To escape being beheaded he
There’s a peculiar legend from feudal times
was ordered to deliver his best wine in flasks
GET ME THERE:
regarding the moustachioed dolls (‘pupe con
representing his camouflage, called ‘pupe’.
■ Classic
Collection Holidays (0800 047
i baffi’) made in the nearby ceramic town of
So he coaxed the artisans into producing
Grottaglie. The story centres round an 18th
about 700 of these human-shaped vases and
three nights at Masseria San Domenico,
century winemaker from the nearby baroque
in the end he married his beloved. Happily
Puglia from £1,199 per person. Price
ever after one assumes! Masseria Le Carrube is a true Puglian hideaway
HISTORY REPEATED
1064; classic-collection.co.uk) offers
based on two adults sharing a deluxe garden view room on a bed and breakfast basis, and includes return flights from
A stay of five days in Puglia was long
London Gatwick and private transfers.
enough for me to visit many of the
■ Adam
local attractions and historic towns.
chepstowcars.com; gatwickexpress.com
had support from
Locorotundo is a lovely town situated
and prioritypass.com
on the Murgia ridge, with a panoramic
■ Local
view across the Itria valley and a
(bari-airport.com) and Brindisi
airports include Bari
grand baroque church whose interior
(brindisiairport.net), which are served
exemplifies its Spanish influence.
by Ryanair (ryanair.com), as well as a
There are old men taking shade in the
number of other low-cost airlines.
GTW
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Dover - France
Coach Travel this Christmas It’s never too early to start planning continental coach travel for Christmas 2018. Travel across 3 routes to Europe with your coach, and discover the stunning Christmas markets. We have fantastic benefits for our coach drivers, too.
dfds.co.uk/coaches
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DAYS OUT FOR FAMILIES & GROUPS
EIGHT best of the
Spectacular light shows? Check. World-class museums? You bet. Animal attractions? Bring it on...
1 Make a bang
Enjoy the UK’s most spectacular open-air live show
Based in Bishop Auckland, County
in the lake and along the promenade. Seen
This year Kynren will focus on the
Durham, ‘Kynren – an epic tale of England’
through the eyes of a child discovering his
theme ‘In Remembrance’, marking two
has returned this summer for its third
heritage and, ultimately, taking on the sword
very special centenaries: the World
season, with dates until mid-September.
to carry on the story into the future, as the
War I Armistice and the Suffragette
The 90-minute live action show takes its
darkness falls the scenes steadily become
Movement winning the vote for women.
audience through 2,000 years of history,
even more spectacular. Boats rise out of the
■ See kynren.com
myth and legend, framed by the backdrop of
lake, burning arrows fly into the sky, there’s
Bishop Auckland Castle.
a clash of swords and monks travel from
The action takes place everywhere: on and
Lindisfarne with the body of St Cuthbert...
2 Race into action
Kynren will light up the skies over Bishop Auckland Castle until September
Visit the de facto birthplace of British motorsport and aviation
Brooklands in Weybridge, Surrey
Aircraft Factory and Flight Shed, an
is a national conservation area and
£8.4m project that involved dismantling,
monument as well as a top-class
restoring and relocating a Grade 2 Listed
museum. So, along with a truly amazing
Second World War Bellman Hangar and
collection of supercars and sports cars
reinterpreting it as an aircraft factory. As
(you’ll never seen so many Ferraris in
well as restoring the section of original
one place), you’ll also find the world’s
1907 racetrack where the Hangar
first purpose-built motor racing circuit
once stood, the project also included
and four listed buildings on-site.
constructing a new purpose-built Flight
Oh, and they also have a Concorde
Shed to display aircraft, with a new
supersonic jet...
archive store and workshop beneath.
The attraction’s a recent winner of the
M A G A Z I N E
WINNER
Entry to the new exhibition spaces is
prestigious Museums and Heritage Award
included in the general admission price to
for best Permanent Exhibition. The
the museum, which is open daily.
award was for the ambitious Brooklands
■ See
brooklandsmuseum.com
Brooklands won a Museums and Heritage Award earlier this summer
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Days out
3 Hit the road
Discover 150 years of motoring history at this Warwickshire attraction
Set the wheels in motion at the fantastic Coventry Transport Museum Boasting the largest publicly owned collection of British vehicles in the world, this expansive two-storey museum in Coventry city centre tells the 150-year story of the UK’s car industry in definitive detail. With 240 cars and commercial vehicles, and more than 200 cycles and 100 motorcycles, Coventry Transport Museum is packed to the gills with vehicular sights that you’re unlikely to see anywhere else. They even have the fastest car in the world – the supersonic Thrust SCC. Small wonder then that the collection here is considered one of the finest in the world. ■ See
transport-museum.com
4 Explore brick by brick
Help build an empire at Legoland Windsor Resort
At Legoland Windsor Resort in Berkshire,
first ever 4D Ride allowing them to really
Ninjago World is proving ever-popular with
feel what it’s like to throw fire balls, shock
groups and families, offering interactive
waves, ice and lightening using nothing but
activities to test participants’ balance,
their hands in a battle against snake tribes,
agility, speed and creativity.
skeleton ghosts and ultimately a giant
Once the Ninjago character scenes have been completed, visitors can experience the
serpent known as The Great Devourer... ■ See
legoland.co.uk
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Days out Take to the trees at Go Ape, which has 31 sites nationwide
5 Go in search of adventure
Feel the need for speed as you zip wire through the trees
ZipWorld in Snowdonia is home to the world’s
adventure amid the forest canopy are
fastest zip wire, as well as the Skyride and the
guaranteed. It’s even possible to try to
UK’s only alpine coaster (based on the concept
bounce and slide through the tree tops via
of a traditional toboggan, it runs on rails as it
an unusual nets adventure, complete with
whips, weaves and darts around trees). While
tree top trampolines, netted walkways and
down in Cardiff, the International White Water
enchanted tree houses. For a slower journey
Centre offers white water rafting (as its name
through the forest, visitors can discover
suggests), as well as river boarding, gorge
the delights of being off road using allterrain, self-balancing electric segways.
walking and air trails. Go Ape now has 31 sites across the UK where several hours of action packed
Go wild at Whipsnade
■ See
zipworld.co.uk,
clww.com and goape.co.uk
6 See the light
Take a voyage of discovery as darkness falls
Everything about Whipsnade is big. At 600 acres, the Bedfordshire zoo is the
This year, Longleat’s Festival of Light will take
largest in the UK, with more than 2,500
visitors on a voyage of discovery, with more
animals calling it home. And just for
than 645 lanterns lighting up 30 acres of
good measure, it boasts the UK’s largest
landscaped grounds as darkness falls. 2018’s
herd of Asian elephants, which you can
theme is an expedition around the world,
observe enjoying their daily ‘walkies’
journeying through time and space with three
around the grounds. See zsl.org/ticket/
new characters, Harry and Bea and their
zsl-whipsnade-zoo
fearless terrier, Monty. In each lantern scene the trio can be found exploring wondrous locations, from the exotic to the glacial. The festive fun continues with a enchanted Christmas Tree Show, Longleat House dressed for a 1920s
Turn to page 34 for more festive events
Christmas, and the Santa Train. You can also enjoy Longleat’s
at £24.40), plus special
famous animal attractions, including the Safari Drive-through. The festival runs on selected dates from ZSL
November 9, and is included in a group
Festival of Light day ticket (adult group prices start
rates are available for 12 or more. Booking is essential, call 01985 844328 or email groups@longleat.co.uk. ■ See
longleat.co.uk
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© RHS / Paul Debois
See how our garden
glows Explore a world of magical illuminations as dusk falls. 1st December – 2nd January RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey 22nd November – 29th December RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Yorkshire 16th November – 5th January RHS Garden Rosemoor, Devon
Light installations, late opening and ticket times all vary per garden, for more information visit www.rhs.org.uk/groups Group Bookings call 0207 821 3195 RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262
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Days out
7 Hop aboard
8 Make tracks
Go back in time at the National Tramway Museum
Celebrate the birth of the Railway Age
Set in a restored Georgian station on the 1825 route of the Stockton and
High in the sweeping Derbyshire countryside overlooking the
Darlington Railway, the Head of Steam Museum tells the story of Darlington’s
famous Derwent Valley is Crich Tramway Village, a period hamlet
role as the birthplace of the railways.
that’s also home to the National Tramway Museum.
It was here that the world’s first steam-worked public railway was unveiled
While watching the vintage trams and lovely old trolley buses
and, as you wander through the old-fashioned entrance hall and ticket office,
ply their way up the old-fashioned main street is undoubtedly
dotted with period-style items like porters’ barrows and uniforms, you can
a treat (tea rooms and shops are a given), riding the beauties
feel the heritage of that landmark event almost seeping through the walls.
is the real joy, especially as many of them trundle out into
The museum’s prize exhibit is Locomotion No 1, the actual engine built by
the open countryside where some truly spectacular views
Robert Stephenson & Co that made history and changed the world forever
await. Be sure to have a pint with some of the costumed
nearly 200 years ago. Several other steam locomotives are also on display,
characters in the convivial old Red Lion pub before you leave.
along with a host of interactive displays, models and other exhibits.
■ See
■ See
tramway.co.uk
darlington.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/head-of-steam/
5 minutes with... Woburn Safari Park’s Education Enrichment Assistant, Emma Footitt
For more on the Bedfordshire safari park see woburnsafari.co.uk
Emma with her leggy friends
FAVOURITE ANIMAL?
MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT?
TOP TIP FOR VISITING WOBURN?
I love all the animals, but my favourites
On one of my first group tours on the
Do the Road Safari twice, as you’ll often
are the Rothschild’s giraffes. I often ask
Road Safari, Woburn’s cheekiest North
get to see the animals doing different
visitors to make silly faces by seeing if they
American black bear, Big Mac, tried to
things each time, from sleeping and playing
can pick their nose with their tongue, as
climb onto the coach. That was certainly
to walking right in front of the coach. It’s
that’s one of the giraffe’s unique abilities!
something I’ll always remember!
fantastic fun, whatever the weather.
GTW
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GREAT YARMOUTH Perfect for short breaks & day visits
Contact us today on 01493 846 346 or visit great-yarmouth.co.uk
Where the sea meets the broads, Norfolk’s premier seaside resort will keep your group entertained, with excellent group rates at seafront and countryside attractions.
Enjoy
Shopping
Heritage
Food
Seaside
From theme parks to the model village, bowling alley, racing, bingo, casinos, zoos and a Sea Life Centre, great group rates are available all over the borough.
The busy market place is surrounded with all the usual high street chains as well as lots of different independent shops unique to Great Yarmouth.
Discover maritime history at the awardwinning Time & Tide, English heritage’s Row Houses, the National Trust’s Elizabethan House, and the Nelson Museum.
Sea air makes you hungry and food always tastes better on the coast. Locally caught smoked kippers, cream teas, and local seafood are always on the menu.
The Greater Yarmouth coastline has fifteen miles of clean, wide, soft, sandy beach, perfect for sea views and settling down in a deckchair to enjoy the Norfolk sunshine.
The Perfect touring base for Norfolk and Suffolk. Great Yarmouth is the ideal touring base for your coach holiday. Norwich, North Norfolk, the Broads and Suffolk all within easy driving distance.
North Norfolk Follow the coast road to north Norfolk for stunning views stately homes, big skies and big beaches, a myriad of quiet country lanes, traditional market towns and countryside villages.
Norwich Just 45 minutes drive, this medieval city has a Norman castle and two cathedrals, excellent shopping and great al fresco dining, perfect for day trips inland from the coast.
The Broads Just inland from Great Yarmouth, charter a paddle steamer, pleasure craft or doubledecker passenger boat and discover the Broads National Park.
Suffolk Coast For fantastic country houses, maritime museums, charming seaside towns and the southern Broads, travel down winding country lanes south into Suffolk.
Great Yarmouth
Visit great-yarmouth.co.uk/ group-travel or contact us via telephone 01493 846346
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Days out
Let battle commence!
Witness the Battle of Hastings on the very field where Saxon soldiers fought to save the crown
Our pick of this autumn’s best living history events
Bosworth in which the Plantagenet monarch
Words: Darren Calpin
online at bosworthbattlefield.org.uk or
RAILWAY IN WARTIME, NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY
by calling 01455 290429. Special group
Where: Pickering, North Yorkshire
rates are also available.
When: October 12-14
successfully defends his crown. And in special debate sessions, historical experts will discuss what might have been different if Richard had been the victor. Tickets for the festival can be booked
BOSWORTH MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL Where: Bosworth, Leicestershire
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s evocative
When: August 18-19
LARGS VIKING FESTIVAL
This year’s Bosworth Medieval Festival
Where: Largs, North Ayrshire
locomotives ensure their fabulous Railway in
is a twist on the history-changing Battle
When: September 1-9
Wartime weekend is able to turn back the
of Bosworth as it explores what would
This ever-popular living history event
clock far more effectively than most other
have happened if King Richard III had
commemorates the Battle of Largs in 1263,
WWII living history events.
been victorious.
an important date in British history as it was
With jousting, archery, living history encampments, author talks and a medieval craft market, both days of the Bosworth
1940s train lines and grand old steam
So, along with impressive costumed parades
the very last time Vikings attempted to invade
and military/civilian vehicle shows, you get to
the shores of mainland Britain.
hop on board steam and heritage diesel trains
Fans attending this week-long celebration
and stop at sandbagged stations with
Medieval Festival end with a full re-enactment
of all things Norse (and Scots, of course) are
blacked-out windows, where re-enactors
of the famous battle of August 22, 1485. But
encouraged to dress up and look the part in
dressed as 1940s factory workers, servicemen
this year, there will also be an alternative look
order to embrace the ‘live like the Vikings did’
and nurses recreate the spirit and camaraderie
at the battle at 11.30am on both mornings.
ethos. The week culminates with a fantastic
of WWII. Live cabaret artists and energetic big
The Wars of the Roses Federation, in
re-enactment of the Battle of Largs, now
bands ensure the ‘Blitz spirit’ stays strong all
conjunction with Bosworth Battlefield Heritage
known as the Festival of Fire. Find out more
weekend long, regardless of what the weather
Centre, will present a version of the Battle of
at largsvikingfestival.org
may do. See nymr.co.uk/Event/wartime
SPECIAL OFFER! Buy your Bosworth tickets before August 17 at bosworthbattlefield .org.uk and save 10%!
The Vikings are coming! Shields at the ready for September’s Largs Viking Festival
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DISCOVER THE CONTROVERSIAL STORY OF ENGLAND’S LOST KING AT KING RICHARD III VISITOR CENTRE
NEW GROUP TALK FOR 2018 The Princes in the Tower KING RICHARD III VISITOR CENTRE An ideal destination for groups, Leicester’s award-winning attraction offers: • Preferential group rates and dedicated booking office • Catering packages, talks and guided tours available • Free entry for tour leader and coach driver • Free familiarisation visit
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.KRIII.COM OR CALL 0116 229 4132
ne ts onloi ney! e k c i t m Buy ve a nd s a
Thrill to the sights and sounds as hundreds of re-enactors re-create the Battle of Bosworth
BOSWORTH
MEDIEVAL festival Ti t h e B a r n R e s ta u r a n t
Two battles Knights jousting Medieval market History camps Expert talks Fancy dress and much more...
Ti t h e B a r n R e s ta u r a n t
1 8 & 1 9 A u g u st
www.bosworthbattlefield.org.uk Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, Sutton Cheney, CV13 0AD /BosworthBattlefield /BosworthBattlefield @bosworthlcc
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Days out
It’s wartime at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
THE BATTLE OF HASTINGS
Fearsome hand-to-hand combat and the
mail and hone their weapons skills as they prepare for battle.
Where: Battle, East Sussex
galloping hooves of charging horses will add
When: October 13-14
to the atmosphere and terror of the bloody
Witness England’s most famous battle, on
battle, which ended in defeat by William
though coaches can park at the Battle Coach
the very field where Saxon soldiers valiantly
Duke of Normandy.
Park, 10 minutes walk from the site. Pre-
fought to save the crown, in the annual
From 10am to 5pm each day, visitors can
re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings.
immerse themselves in every aspect of 11th
More than 600 warriors, including mounted
century life – for both soldiers and ordinary
Please note, there is no on site coach parking,
booking for groups is essential, call 0870 333 1183 or see english-heritage.org.uk/events
knights on horseback, will authentically
folk – as authentic period crafts are sold in a
NEWCASTLE CASTLE
recreate the doomed tactics employed by an
market and a living history encampment depicts
Where: Newcastle
exhausted King Harold and his weary men
the daily toil for those living on both sides
When: Whenever you like!
who had marched from Yorkshire to bravely
of the Channel. As women cook over open fires
If you and your co-travellers like the idea
face their enemy.
and tend their children, troops will make chain
of getting really immersed in living history then why not give the bespoke Group
Newcastle Castle
Experience Package at Newcastle Castle a whirl? Specially devised for large groups, this engaging offering lets you see, hear, taste and feel what life was like in this Imposing Norman fortress back in the day. After being met at the main gate by a mounted knight and accompanying foot soldiers, your group is taken on an interactive tour where you’ll get a very personal taste of medieval music, food, weapons and justice. You can even enjoy some old-school ale whilst admiring stunning views from the castle roof. Fittingly, this two hour extravaganza ends with a final battle featuring armoured knights slogging
PETER ATKINSON
it out to the bitter, bloody end! A minimum of 40 people is needed to make a booking (100 max), and bookings must be made two months in advance. See newcastlecastle.co.uk
GTW
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Cliveden’s stunning house and Cliveden’s house and gardens arestunning the perfect gardens are the perfect destination for a group day out. destination for a group day out. There's beautiful seasonal floral There's beautiful seasonal floral displays, an outstanding sculpture displays, an outstanding sculpture collection and guided tours. collection and guided tours. Cliveden welcomes group visits throughout the year, from Monday to Cliveden welcomes group visits throughout year, from Saturday. We recommend you allow three tothe four hours toMonday see the to formal Saturday. Wehave recommend three four or hours gardens and enough you timeallow to stop fortolunch tea.to see the formal gardens and have enough timeguided to stoptours for lunch or tea.who wish to find out Cliveden offers pre-bookable for groups tours for groups who wish to find out aCliveden bit moreoffers aboutpre-bookable the House orguided Garden. a bit admission more aboutfor theNT House or Garden. Free members, £10 per non-member adult. Free admission for NT members, £10 per non-member adult.
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Feeling sporty?
Hit the slopes From skiing the Scottish mountains to learning to kayak, now’s the time to start planning your next outdoor adventure
W
E BRITS HAVE been skiing at Glenshee
and climbed in various combinations, starting
in Aberdeenshire since the late
from or near the Glenshee Ski Centre, and
1930s, when a few simple rope tows were
the Glenshee mountain bike track is
constructed, opening up the mountain sides to
approximately 3.2km long, accessed via
plucky skiers keen to explore ever steeper and
the Cairnwell Chairlift.
higher. Soon, the ski clubs of Perth, Dundee
Wildlife lovers will fall for the unique
and Aberdeen emerged, with members keen
flora and fauna in the area: red grouse and
to upgrade the rudimentary lift system. And
mountain (or blue) hares are abundant;
so Scotland’s biggest ski centre began to take
ring ouzels can be found breeding here,
shape, with Dundee Ski Club building the first
while peregrine falcons, golden eagles,
T-bar tow on Meal Odhar in 1957. No more
red kites and ravens hunt the area.
slipping and sliding at the end of a rope...
VISITING IN WINTER?
Over the years, the ski lifts improved, the slopes became more groomed and the
Glenshee is a haven for skiers and snow
many of kilometres of pistes began to take
boarders over the winter months. Virtually
shape. Today, during the summer months,
all (99%) of the runs are groomed by a fleet
the Cairnwell Chairlift carries visitors on
of modern snow groomers, with the two
three-seater chairs to just under 3000ft
black runs left for moguls to form. An
(1000m) on the Cairnwell Mountain, where
extensive number of intermediate runs
they’re rewarded by spectacular views over
make the area ideal for families and school
the Cairngorms, and the option to walk, bike
groups, and for the more adventurous there is
or take the chair back down. And if you’re in
extensive off-piste, as well as a box and jump
need of a quick cuppa to calm you down after
park at Butcharts Coire and two race pistes for
all that excitement, the dog-friendly Tea @
slalom and giant slalom.
The Shee café is open for much of the year.
Find the Glenshee Ski Centre at the Cairnwell Pass on the A93, the highest main road in the UK, see ski-glenshee.co.uk
People have been skiing here since the late 1930s
Meet the Pisten Bulley 600, on hand to bash those pistes!
Two ski and board schools offer a team of qualified instructors to help you improve your
VISITING IN SUMMER?
skills and enjoy the full extent of Glenshee,
There are nine Munros that can be accessed
and gear is available to buy or hire.
Glenshee is a haven for skiers in winter – and walkers and mountain bikers in summer
GLENSHEE IN NUMBERS…
40 – the number (in kilometres) 3 – the number of chairlifts in the of pisted runs the resort has; its longest being 2km
9457
– the resort’s vertical descent, in metres
resort; it also has three T-bar lifts, one rope tow and 14 button lifts
8
– the number of green runs (the easiest)
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CONTACT US CONTACT CONTACTUS US CONTACT US ON ON ON ON
01892 240615 01892 01892240615 240615 01892 240615
ONE WARWICK PARK HOTEL ONE ONE WARWICK WARWICK PARK PARK HOTEL HOTEL ONE Luxury WARWICK PARK HOTEL accommodation Luxury Luxury accommodation accommodation Luxury accommodation 39 bedrooms 3939 bedrooms bedrooms 39 bedrooms A stone’s throw away from the AA stone’s stone’s throw throw away away from from thethe famous Pantiles A stone’s throw away from the famous famous Pantiles Pantiles famous Pantiles Onsite restaurant Onsite Onsite restaurant restaurant Onsite restaurant www.onewarwickpark.co.uk www.onewarwickpark.co.uk www.onewarwickpark.co.uk www.onewarwickpark.co.uk
BEWL WATER BEWL BEWL WATER WATER LargestBEWL stretch WATER of open water in Largest Largest stretch stretch ofof open open water water inin the South East water in Largest stretch of open thethe South South East East South EastNatural Area ofthe Outstanding Area Area ofof Outstanding Outstanding Natural Natural Beauty Natural Area of Outstanding Beauty Beauty RestaurantBeauty on the shoreline Restaurant Restaurant onon thethe shoreline shoreline Restaurant on theavailable shoreline Coach parking Coach Coach parking parking available available Coach parking available www.bewlwater.co.uk www.bewlwater.co.uk www.bewlwater.co.uk www.bewlwater.co.uk
SALOMONS ESTATE SALOMONS SALOMONS ESTATE ESTATE SALOMONS ESTATE Unique museum Unique Unique museum museum Unique Welte playermuseum pipe organ Welte Welte player player pipe pipe organ organ player pipe grounds organ 36Welte acres of beautiful 3636 acres acres ofof beautiful beautiful grounds grounds 36 acres47 ofbedrooms beautiful grounds 4747 bedrooms bedrooms 47coach bedrooms Free parking Free Free coach coach parking parking Free coach parking www.salomons-estate.co.uk www.salomons-estate.co.uk www.salomons-estate.co.uk www.salomons-estate.co.uk
STAY | DINE | SCENIC WALKING ROUTES AND WATER TAXI | BOAT TRIPS | HOUSE AND GARDENS STAY STAY | | DINE DINE | | SCENIC SCENIC WALKING WALKING ROUTES ROUTES AND AND WATER WATER TAXI TAXI | | BOAT BOAT TRIPS TRIPS | | HOUSE HOUSE AND AND GARDENS GARDENS STAY | DINE | SCENIC WALKING ROUTES AND WATER TAXI | BOAT TRIPS | HOUSE AND GARDENS
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BOAT TRIPS BOAT BOATTRIPS TRIPS BOAT TRIPS Boat Trip with Fish & Chips
Boat Boat Trip Trip with with Fish Fish && Chips Chips Boat Trip with Fish & Chips £16.50 per person £16.50 £16.50 per per person person £16.50 perwith person Boat Trip Afternoon Tea Boat Boat Trip Trip with with Afternoon Afternoon Tea Tea Boat Trip Afternoon Tea £20.00 perwith person £20.00 £20.00 per per person person £20.00 perwith person Boat Trip 2 Course Lunch Boat Boat Trip Trip with with 2 Course 2 Course Lunch Lunch Boat Trip 2 Course Lunch £25.00 perwith person £25.00 £25.00 per per person person £25.00note: perminimum person 12 people per group, maximum 70 people. Please Please Please note: note: minimum 12can 12 people people perper group, maximum maximum 7070 people. people. Terms andminimum conditions be found atgroup, www.bewlwater.co.uk Please note: minimum 12 per maximum 70 people. Terms Terms and and conditions conditions cancan bepeople be found found at www.bewlwater.co.uk atgroup, www.bewlwater.co.uk Terms and conditions can be found at www.bewlwater.co.uk
Kent is full of exciting attractions, which are suitable for everyone. From centuries-old heritage sites, glorious gardens, stately homes Kent Kent is is full full ofof exciting exciting attractions, attractions, which which areare suitable suitable forfor everyone. everyone. From From centuries-old centuries-old heritage heritage sites, sites, glorious glorious gardens, gardens, stately stately homes homes historic attractions as wellwhich as many filledfor activities. There arecenturies-old plenty of reasons to explore The Garden of stately England. Kentand is full of exciting attractions, arefun suitable everyone. From heritage sites, glorious gardens, homes and and historic historic attractions attractions asas well well asas many many fun fun filled filled activities. activities. There There areare plenty plenty ofof reasons reasons toto explore explore The The Garden Garden ofof England. England. and historic attractions as well as many fun filled activities. There are plenty of reasons to explore The Garden of England. Our venues are situated within easy reach of Kent’s compelling collection of attractions so whether you are looking for a base whilst Our Our venues venues areare situated situated within within easy easy reach reach ofof Kent’s Kent’s compelling compelling collection collection ofof attractions attractions soso whether whether you you areare looking looking forfor a base a base whilst whilst explore wonderful or you would compelling like our expert team toofplan an itinerary please you contact on 01892 Ouryou venues are this situated within county easy reach of Kent’s collection attractions so whether are us looking for a 240615. base whilst you you explore explore this this wonderful wonderful county county oror you you would would like like our our expert expert team team toto plan plan anan itinerary itinerary please please contact contact usus onon 01892 01892 240615. 240615. you explore this wonderful county or you would like our expert team to plan an itinerary please contact us on 01892 240615.
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Feeling sporty? ATTACK THE RAPIDS Enjoy a quiet kayak down the river, but want to step it up a gear? Discover how fast your reactions are as the water pummels your canoe and the spray hits your face at Lee Valley White Water Centre, just outside London. This is your chance to tackle the actual course used in the 2012 Olympics. You can choose to master the white waters in a canoe, a hot dog (inflatable kayak) or hydrospeed (a cross between a float and a bodyboard). Or go for the white water raft experience, which is great for groups and parties. You’ll be kitted out in wetsuits, helmets and buoyancy aids, then introduced to your raft guide who’ll help you navigate the drops and eddies of the rapids. The raft can hold up to nine people, and if you want to stay for the weekend, camp or glamp in cosy cocoons and cabins at Lee Valley Campsite. Find out more at gowhitewater.co.uk
Discover your wild side at Lee Valley
Fancy tackling the world’s highest indoor bungee jump? Run by the UK Bungee Jump Club (ukbungee.co.uk), it’s housed at the Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham.
MAKE A LEAP OF FAITH Coasteering turns the art of clambering from cliffs to rocks, jumping in and out of the sea, into a sport – and the good folk at the TYF Group pioneered it some 30 years ago. They call it Pure Ocean Play, and you can join them at their base in St David’s in Pembrokeshire, as part of a TYF ADVENTURE
guided group on the beautiful coastline. Children as young as eight can take part, These waters are shark-free, yeah?
see tyf.com
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New for 2018 theddaystory.com mvs@portsmouthcc.gov.uk 023 9283 4737
GLENSHEE SKI CENTRE CAIRNWELL, BRAEMAR, ABERDEENSHIRE AB35 5XU FACILITIES INCLUDE: Opening times are 8.30am - 5pm (7 days a week during season) Base café is open daily 8.30am to 4.45pm
Tel: 013397 41320
E-mail: info@ski-glenshee.co.uk Website: www.ski-glenshee.co.uk Glenshee Ski Centre
The personal made epic.
Open daily Group rates available for 15+ visitors, pre-booking essential. Adult: £8.50 Senior: £6.80 Child: £4.25
Go Behind the Scenes Discover Newmarket offers a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at racing’s headquarters to learn about the fascinating history, heritage and culture of the town.
Prices from
£11
per person
Exclusive access to Trainer yards and studs
Meet the
equine stars
email admin@discovernewmarket.co.uk
Fun family days at top attractions!
@DiscoverNkt erNkt
/discovernewmarket
visit www.discovernewmarket.co.uk call 0344 748 9200
@DiscoverNkt
Photograph © IWM (A 194 9 70) 94
The epic made personal.
The Cairnwell chairlift will run from May to September/October (weather permitting) and has hooks for mountain bikes. You can ride down the mountain on the land rover track. Please note this is not a beginners ride.
Feeling sporty? Explore the largest stretch of open water in the south east
TAKE TO THE WATER Bewl Water is the largest stretch of open water in the south east, set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the heart of the High Weald. Open all year, you can fish, bike, walk, set sail, eat out, camp or simply relax – with parking just £3 all day for cars (£20 for coaches) and a whopping 800 acres to explore. Close to the picturesque town of Lamberhurst, as well as the National Trust property Scotney Castle, and within an hour’s drive of Tunbridge Wells, Hastings, Tonbridge, Maidstone, Ashford, Eastbourne and Sevenoaks, it’s easy to turn your visit into a weekend away. Find out more at bewlwater.co.uk And another thing... the Bewl Water reservoir can hold more than 31,000 million litres of water – enough for nearly 200 million people.
THE GREAT ESCAPE Saga is offering a range of small group,
in Zimbabwe (12 nights from £3,599),
big adventure tours for 12 to 17 guests
prices include Saga’s VIP door-to-door
where you can see the world as never
travel service, return flights, airport taxes,
before. From an escorted tour of Ethiopia’s
accommodation, porterage, the services of
ancient ruins and UNESCO-listed sites (12
a tour manager, and more. See saga.co.uk/
nights from £2,849) to a safari holiday
worldwide
GTW
Surf, fly, race and shoot at Twinwoods Adventure near Bedford, where you can have a go at indoor skydiving and surfing, be a racing driver for the day and try the new, fully-immersive VR 4D Skydive experience. See twinwoodsadventure.com
Explore Ethiopia on an adventure tour with Saga
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Great shows for Groups at Sadler’s Wells & The Peacock DIRECTED BY SHRUTI MERCHANT CHOREOGRAPHED BY VAIBHAVI MERCHANT
THE DAZZLING BOLLYWOOD MUSICAL IS BACK
HHHH “THE DANCING GOES STRAIGHT TO THE HEART”
White
SUNDAY EXPRESS
100c 75m 0y 0k
overprint
“Sheer theatrical magic. Go see The Snowman and melt” The Times
g Featurin
FEATURING THE SONGS OF
A.R. RAHMAN (SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE)
2 - 20 OCT
‘Walking in the Air’
22 Nov - 6 Jan
HHHH
“Sensual, erotic, authentically argentinian”
A NEW ADVENTURES PRODUCTION
THE TELEGRAPH
‘AS BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL AS EVER’ DAILY TELEGRAPH
GERMAN CORNEJO’S
4 DEC – 27 JAN
29 Jan - 16 feb 19
GROUPS OF 8+ SAVE 20%* *Terms and conditions apply TO BOOK, CALL: 020 7863 8000 MORE INFO: sadlerswells.com 297x210 taj snow swan lake tango.indd 1 FP Template.indd 33
05/07/2018 16:02 12/07/2018 21:58
Christmas is coming...
Explore a fantastic new Christmas light trail at Beaulieu from November 23 to December 30. The work of leading events producers Raymond Gubbay, the grounds and gardens of this Hampshire attraction will be transformed by a magical after-dark illuminated trail. See beaulieu.co.uk/ christmas
Get set for Christmas
2018
In just a few short months we’ll all be draped in tinsel, so we’re kicking the festive season off early with our 20-page special full of Christmassy events, shows and attractions
Look lively guys, your busy season’s fast approaching!
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Feeling festive? Mrs Claus is already busy baking...
The spirit of Christmas past One of the 10 amazing Ironbridge Gorge Museums in Shropshire, Blists Hill Victorian Town is going all out to entertain
Santa’s on safari
this winter, with festive lunch packages
West Midland Safari Park is all set to host its
held every Tuesday to Thursday
annual Santa Safari, as the park’s Discovery Trail
throughout December, and special
is transformed into a winter wonderland.
Victorian Christmas Weekends running
for groups of 15 or more, call Ben Walker
on December 8-9 and 15-16.
to find out more on 01952 435900,
Already, more than 350 Christmas trees have been planted, complete with a hefty
(that include admission to the attraction)
Discounts and freebies are available
or see www.ironbridge.org.uk
sprinkling of 1,500kg of ‘snow’ ready for Santa’s arrival on November 17. He’ll have of elves – and once he’s doled out a few
Festival time
prezzies, children can head to the festive
This year’s City of Durham Christmas Festival
£60 and must be booked in advance,
Sea Lion Show and Elf Craft Club, grabbing
hits town from November 30 to December
includes a drop off/collection/parking
some of Mrs Claus’ Christmas fare en route.
2, complete with craft and gift stalls, festive
point, free entry into the craft and gift
The Santa Safari opens on November
entertainment and yuletide fare. The award-
marquee for drivers, a special welcome by
17 for weekends only and is then open
winning event is set in and around the World
the festival team, a driver info pack and
daily from December 1 until Christmas Eve.
Heritage Site of the cathedral and castle, as
more. Call Sarah Lumley on 0191 334
Special discounts are available for groups of
well as winding through the city’s streets.
3036 for more on this. For details of the
10 or more if you all head there in the same
A special coach package, which costs
event, see durhamchristmasfestival.com
his own North Pole grotto, run by a team
vehicle. To book, call 01299 400700.
As twilight falls, the magic begins...
New trail for 2018 Palm House Lightshow Laser Garden Canopy of Light plus
Food & gifts Santa & his elves 22 November 2018–5 January 2019 Group discounts are available to parties of 15 or more people. For more information, contact Kew’s groups department
020 8332 5648 or groups@kew.org For full details about the event check kew.org/christmas
Royal Botanic Gardens Raymond Gubbay
034-035 GTW Jul 1835Christmas for groups.indd 35 HP Template.indd
Kew
08/07/2018 22:11 10:37 12/07/2018
Days out
Christmas at the castle...
Put yourself in the mood for the inevitable Christmas re-runs of Downton Abbey with a trip to one of the UK’s finest country homes and gardens HEVER CASTLE
weekend throughout December, as well as a Victorian Christmas Fair from November 17-18. And festive events aside, the attraction’s gardens are open year-round, there’s a not-so Secret Owl Garden (home to the largest collection of owls in Wales), a courtyard restaurant, shop and deli and more. Set in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, plan your visit at pictoncastle.co.uk
STONOR PARK Oxfordshire
Home to the Stonor family for 850 years, this country house and deer park is playing
And another thing... Hever Castle
host to the popular Country Homes & Interiors
Kent
has now extended its range of private
Christmas boutique-style shopping event
Guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit,
guided garden tours to include a sensory
from November 22-25.
Hever’s Christmas at the Castle event runs on
tour for visually impaired visitors, email
selected dates from November 24, as the log
groups@hevercastle.co.uk for details.
fires glow and Santa heads to his Grotto. And once the big man’s worked his magic, Hever’s
PICTON CASTLE & GARDENS
Located in the grounds of the park in stylish marquees, expect more than 100 stands, as well as country-themed demos. Combined tickets, which include access to
Winter Walks run from December 27 to New
Pembrokeshire
Stonor House as well as the fair, can be
Year’s Day. Find out more at hevercastle.co.uk/
This winter, glorious Picton Castle plays host
bought from thecraftshows.co.uk – for more
visit/groups
to Santa’s Magical Family Christmas every
on a visit to Stonor itself see stonor.com Enjoy Christmas at Hever
Get set for Christmas
2018
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Christmas at
Stonor
CHRISTMAS AT WADDESDON MANOR
10 Nov-2 Jan
Christmas Gift Fair 10 Nov-16 Dec For opening times and group rates 01296 653209 groups@waddesdon.org.uk www.waddesdon.org.uk Nr Aylesbury, Bucks HP18 0JH
CHRISTMAS MARKET 2018 SATURDAY 17 NOVEMEBER - THURSDAY 20 DECEMBER Explore one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, renowned for its spectacular location, high quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere.
28th November to 9th December Stonor Park is welcoming groups to experience
‘Star of Wonder’ this Christmas. The house will be beautifully decorated and, new for this year, are candlelit tours followed by drinks and dinner in the 13th century medieval hall.
Advance tickets: 01491 638 587
For more details visit www.stonor.com
Stonor Park Henley-on-Thames Oxfordshire RG9 6HF
PEMBROKESHIRE'S AWARD WINNING CASTLE & GARDENS 40 ACRES OF GARDENS 13th CENTURY CASTLE QUALITY GIFT SHOP SECRET OWL GARDEN ART GALLERIES RESTAURANT & DELI OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND!
DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS
Christmas Fair 17 & 18 NOVEMBER Christmas Castle Tours 19 NOV - 21 DEC
Free admission for groups with advanced booking recommended. Extend your visit with a tour of the magnificent Winchester Cathedral from just £6 per person. Contact us | visits@winchester-cathedral.org.uk | 01962 857 225 www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk
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PEMBROKESHIRESA62 4AS 01437 751326 WWW.PICTONCASTLE.CO.UK EMAIL INFO@PICTONCASTLE.CO.UK REG. CHARITY NO: 519693
11/07/2018 07:50
Days out MELLERSTAIN HOUSE AND GARDENS
BATSFORD ARBORETUM
Hailed as one of the great houses of Scotland, Mellerstain House and Gardens is happy to
Home to the country’s largest private
open its door to groups outside of its official opening times for a guided tour of this historic
collection of trees and shrubs, Batsford
gem (email enquiries@mellerstain.com for details). Set in the Scottish Borders, the mansion
Arboretum and Garden Centre in
house is possibly the only remaining complete building designed by neoclassical architect
Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire,
Robert Adam. Find out more at mellerstain.com
welcomes groups of all ages, with discounts for 20 or more people, free coach parking, a meet and greet service and guided tours on offer. It’s open every day bar Christmas Day itself. See batsarb.co.uk
WADDESDON MANOR Buckinghamshire
Built for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the 1870s to display his collections and entertain fashionable guests, Waddesdon Manor will once again become a party place when it opens its doors for its annual Christmas Fair from November 10 to December 16 (the fair will run every Wednesday to Sunday during this time). Find out more at waddesdon.org.uk Waddesdon Manor’s annual Christmas Fair arrives in the grounds in November
VISIT BRITAIN
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Enjoy a historic rt of Dorset day out in the hea
Athelhampton
House & Gardens
•Tudor Manor House with antique furnishings & Art Gallery •Grade Grade 1 listed Formal gardens with famous yew pyramids •New Kitchen garden restoration •Outstanding visitor facilities •Gift shop & Plant sales •Refreshment stops welcome without admission •Open all year for booked groups
Easily found, just off the A35 between Dorchester & Poole Athelhampton House & Gardens, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 7LG
www.athelhampton.co.uk 01305 848363
HADDON HALL Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1LA.
Christmas at Haddon Hall 1st to 23rd December 10.30am to 4.00pm SLEEPING BEAUTY AND OTHER TALES
Musical recitals Evening Candlelight Tours • Gift Shop Chapel • Museum • Exhibitions Delicious festive lunches www.haddonhall.co.uk info@haddonhall.co.uk | 01629812855
Days out Tried & trusted
Here, members of Coach Buddy share their favourite Christmas getaways... “Chatsworth House at Christmas is superb, and Abbey Cwm Hir near Llandrindod Wells is well worth a visit too.” Chris Haystead
“Longleat’s Festival of Light is amazing.” Andy Avery
“The Thursford Christmas Spectacular in Norfolk is the best every year.”
The magical Glow illuminations at RHS Wisley
Tina Grant
“The Beverley Christmas market in East Yorkshire is really well organised without being like a cattle market.”
RHS GARDENS Enjoy the festive season with the RHS this year on a visit to one of its four gardens: Wisley in Surrey, Rosemoor in Devon, Hyde Hall in Essex and Harlow Carr in Harrogate. All four are playing host to a series of
Rosina Hough
special events, including the magical Glow illuminations at Wisley, Rosemoor and
“The York, Beverley and Lincoln Christmas markets are all very popular.”
Harlow Carr, as well as the Winter Garden at Hyde Hall. Special group catering packages are available at all four locations, including festive lunches, afternoon teas and
Vincent D Marshall
mulled wine and mince pies, as well as the “Our winter events are great value, with no additional charge for the illuminations, free
The RHS Gardens offer all-year-round colour and entertainment
parking and free entry for RHS members,” says Melissa Hackney, Groups Marketing
For more on the
Manager for RHS Gardens. “And our special
festive events on offer
offer means that if groups have already visited
call 020 7821 3170,
an RHS Garden this year, they’ll get 50% off
email groups@rhs.org.uk
a second visit – see the website for details.”
or visit rhs.org.uk/groups
MOUNT GRACE PRIORY
upgraded, there’s a new Orchard
Sign up to Coach Buddy, for free, and get the information you need to help you plan your next trip, from advice on coach parking to where the best toilet drops are! See coachbuddy.org.uk
North Yorkshire
Café, and special trails, tours and
The ruined medieval Carthusian monastery
activities help visitors explore this fascinating
of Mount Grace Priory, House and Gardens
600-year-old site. One of the best-preserved
in North Yorkshire is now a fully-fledged
medieval charterhouses in Europe, and
garden destination in its own right following
the only publicly-accessible Carthusian
a huge revamp and redesign, led by award-
monastery in England, you can still see
winning garden designer and TV presenter
the remains of the 15 cells where monks
Chris Beardshaw.
lived in solitude. Find out more at english-
Access from the parking area has been
heritage.org.uk/mountgracepriory
GTW
VISIT BRITAIN
opportunity for some Christmas shopping.
Christmas at Chatsworth comes highly recommended
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A festive getaway Book your group’s festive break with Alfa Travel and enjoy a range of benefits
A
LFA TRAVEL offers 21 Leisureplex AA 3-star hotels
There are some great reasons to book your group’s festive
in some of the UK’s premium
break with Alfa Travel, including...
seaside resorts. And with 50
E No single room supplement
Alfa Travel coaches ready to
at any Leisureplex hotels
transport you in style, the
E Free places and discounts
company offers great value
for the 21st, 31st, 41st and
holidays and weekend breaks to
48th passengers
their own hotels and carefully
E Free lunches on resort days
selected partner hotels, with
E Christmas shopping trips or
holidays including UK, Ireland,
sightseeing excursions included
Continental and river cruise tours.
E Delicious festive menus
This festive season, Alfa Travel
FOR GROUPS Get up to FOUR QUOTE FEST
FREE PLACES! 4 DAY Weeke breaks frnd om
£169 Per Pers on
5 DAY Mid-w breaks freek om
and entertainment
has a great selection of holidays
E Direct return travel and special
and events to suit any group;
joining arrangements
including five-day mid-week
E Exclusivity of the coach for
breaks from £189pp, four-day
30-plus passengers
weekend breaks from £169pp
Festive Breaks
Call Alfa Travel for details
and two-day party nights
on 01257 248045 or email
from £56pp.
groups@alfatravel.co.uk
£189
Contact the Alfa Groups Team:
01257 248007
Per Pers on
groups@alfatravel.co.uk
Terms and conditions: Free place on your 21st, 31st, 41st and 48th passenger. Available on Group holidays of 30 passengers or more. Alfa Travel reserve the right to remove the offer at any time.
GREAT GROUP DEALS AVAILABLE
ON SPECTACULAR EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE CHRISTMAS SEASON
Call our groups team now on or email or search “The Ticket Factory Groups”
*calls cost 7p per minute plus standard network charges
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL OVO 2018
TT000682 - Groups Half Page Ad_190x134.indd 1
THE 2018 BIRMINGHAM
INTERNATIONAL TATTOO
06/07/2018 11:07
London’s
Eltham Palace sit s on the site of a medie val royal palace
calling...
Because every festive trip needs a palace or two!
A
MASTERPIECE OF 1930s design, mixing
visit with a stop at The Wernher Collection
medieval and Art Deco architecture,
at Ranger’s House, home to the priceless
Eltham Palace in south east London sits
array of art treasures collected by millionaire
on the site of a medieval royal palace.
diamond dealer Sir Julius Wernher.
If you’ve been before, come again over
more or see english-heritage.
been freshly revamped for groups. Previously
org.uk/eltham
unseen rooms are now open, including the luxury wartime bunker designed by the
A HIDDEN GEM
palace’s millionaire creators, textile magnates
On the edge of
Stephen and Virginia Courtauld. While
Hampstead Heath,
upstairs, Virginia’s walk-in wardrobe has
surrounded by
been recreated, with vintage dresses and
landscaped gardens,
replica accessories to try on. Outside, 19
Robert Adam’s 18th
acres of moated gardens, a visitor centre,
century masterpiece,
shop and tearoom complete the package.
Kenwood, is one of London’s
Advanced booking is required for normal PHOTOS: PIXABAY
Call 020 8294 2548 to find out
Christmas is the message, as the attraction’s
Get set for Christmas
2018
hidden gems. Following an
Rembrandt, Vermeer, Turner, Reynolds and
visits, and pre-booked guided tours of both
extensive revamp of its fabulous
the palace and gardens are available for
interiors and art collections, it now has an
an additional charge. Groups looking for a
atmosphere that feels less stately and more
tours call 020 8348 1286 or see
double dose of decadence can combine a
homely. Homely, that is, if home to you means
english-heritage.org.uk/kenwood
Gainsborough art on the walls. To book group visits and guided
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Days out Give it some Welly... Perfect to link with Christmas shopping or theatre trips to the West End, groups can enjoy two English Heritage attractions associated with the first Duke of Wellington, standing opposite each other at Hyde Park Corner: Wellington Arch and Apsley House, the former home of the first Duke of Wellington. The latter still houses most of his famous art collection, and memorabilia, including an original pair of the Duke’s ‘Wellington boots’, is on display. To book call 0207 930 2726 for Wellington Arch or 020 7499 5676 for Apsley House. TOP TIP: Take advantage of a joint ticket to see both properties, and time your visit to the Arch to see the passing of the Household See the Courtauld’s sumptuous interiors at Eltham Palace – and join GTW on a fam trip here (see page 12 for details)
Cavalry on their way to and from the Changing of the Guard at Horse Guards Parade.
“A tranquil oasis in the heart of London” Tripadvisor
Free museum Gift shop Daily guided tours Groups welcome
Living the nation’s history since 1348 The Charterhouse has served as a monastery, private mansion, boys school and an almshouse, which it remains to this day. Open Tuesday-Sunday The Charterhouse, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6AN Tel 020 3818 8873 Email tours@thecharterhouse.org WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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43
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Monastic fun Charterhouse has served
Christmas at Cliveden
as a monastery, private
December is a magical time to visit
mansion, boys’ school and an
this historic country pile, with its Angel
almshouse, which it remains
Academy Christmas Trail, gift shop and
to this day, and visitors are
winter walks all waiting to be explored.
welcome over the festive
The woodland grounds are dog-friendly
season, with a special
(ideal for a stroll when you’ve overdone
Christmas Fair being held on
the mince pies), the shop stocks
November 13.
everything from gifts to Christmas trees,
Over the centuries the
Charterhouse dates back to the 1300s
Join the Brothers
and everyone who completes the Angel
(residents) and staff of
Academy Christmas trail mission earns a
this magical site as its doors open for a
grotto, Christmas carols, arts and crafts
set of angel wings. What’s not to love?
day of festive shopping and Christmas
and more. From 11am to 7pm, entry’s
Find out more at nationaltrust.org.uk/
fun, including mulled wine, Santa’s
just £3. See thecharterhouse.org
cliveden
Visit Greenwich Give your festive plans a watery twist as
tour of the Cutty Sark, complete with a walk
you explore all Greenwich has to offer.
under its hull and trip to the café. Lunch was
GTW’s Julie Cousins visited this historic
at Benugo in the National Maritime Museum,
borough recently, hosted by the team at
before taking in the museum’s British Seaside
Royal Museums Greenwich, and here are
photography exhibition, which runs until the
her tips for a weekend well spent.
end of September and is well worth a look if
Enjoy the glow at Kew Gardens this winter as an after-dark festive trail of lights illuminates the world-famous attraction from November 22 to January 5 thanks to a million twinkling lights and thousands of laser beams. Tickets are on sale now – visit christmas atkew.seetickets.com
you can get there in time.
START WITH... Monsta from London Bridge Pier. It looks
HEAD BACK TO GREENWICH PIER...
impressive, and fast, and it is. We stuck to
...and hop on MBNA Thames Clippers for
the speed limit until we were out of the
a more sedate journey to the Emirates Air
vicinity of moored restaurants, bars and
Line cable car (where I conquered my fear
HMS Belfast, and then our pilot opened up
of heights and had a lovely champagne ride
the engine as Bruce Springsteen’s Born to
over the Thames). My hotel for the night was
Run played in the background. Quite literally
Aloft at Royal Greenwich, a very modern,
breathtaking!
laidback hotel with all mod-cons and a stylish
...a high speed kick as you take the Thames
The National Maritime Museum and Queen’s House
restaurant. All the staff were very pleasant and
HOP OFF THE BOAT AT...
couldn’t help enough.
...Greenwich Pier to reach Royal Museums Greenwich, a UNESCO World Heritage
THE NEXT DAY...
Site. First up for us was a fascinating guided
...head back over the Thames to Dinosaurs in the Wild, a virtual reality, live action
19th century clipper ship the Cutty Sark
their ability to answer a variety of questions that only children would ask! The attraction runs until September, so get there quick if you can.
experience that allows you to experience
THEN VISIT...
life 67 million years ago. It certainly
...Up at the O2, to climb across the arena
entertains both children and adults as you
roof to capture panoramic views of London
board the time machine to head back to
landmarks. This takes around 90 minutes
the Cretaceous period to encounter ‘real
and is quite safe as you’re strapped on.
life’ dinosaurs surrounding the TimeBase. It’s quite scary – in a good
Find out more at rmg.co.uk
AND FINISH WITH...
way – with actor guides who
...another Thames Clipper to the Trafalger
certainly live their roles, as
Tavern, a Victorian riverside pub that was
well as answering questions
frequented by Charles Dickens. The food’s
from enquiring children.
great and you can almost imagine you’re
I was very impressed by
back in the Victorian times.
GTW
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08/07/2018 10:44
SEE FURTHER THAN THE EYE CAN SEE
• London’s highest viewing platform • 800ft above the ground • Unwind with a glass of champagne • Stay as long as you wish Special rates for groups of 10+ plus free leader places 0844 499 7111 reservations@theviewfromtheshard.com www.theviewfromtheshard.com
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12/07/2018 07:51
Shopping
Bring on the glühwein! Get your Christmas shopping off to a winning start...
W
INCHESTER ALWAYS DOES Christmas
until early January).
in style, with its cathedral at the
Tickets will be available
heart of the festivities, and this year is set
from September 1 via
to be even bigger and better than before.
winchester-cathedral.org.
Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market is one of the best in Europe, with more than 100 chalets, an impressive ice rink
Village. Find out more at xmas-markets.com or follow facebook.com/ChristmasMarketBristol
DESIGNER LABELS Christmas shopping
Get set for Christmas
2018
fantastic Herefordshire countryside sounds like a plan! The Labels Shopping outlet centre in Ross-on-Wye mixes designer labels with the
uk/christmas or the box office, call 01962 857276.
with a view of the
great outdoors, thanks to its very own farm that’s just a short drive from the main centre.
and hundreds of thousands of visitors keen
HIT THE STALLS
to soak up the atmosphere that rivals the
Bristol’s Christmas Market will return to the
and farm shop is produced, and once you’re
traditional German Christmas markets.
heart of the city centre on Broadmead this
high on caffeine you can shop for gifts, clothes,
Combine it with a visit to the stunning
winter from November 9 to December 23.
homeware and more. See labelsshopping.co.uk
cathedral itself, which is home to carol services
Now in its seventh year, from 10am every day
and festive events throughout December.
until 7pm (with food and drinks still on sale
PARTY ON!
until 10pm) the high street will come alive as
Combine a festive shopping trip to the north
festive wooden chalets get set to sell a huge
west with a short stay in Blackpool – and
The market is open every day from November 17 to December 20, and admission is free (the ice rink will stay open
range of gifts and food. Sip a warming
Here, much of the produce for Labels’ café
a night out to remember thanks to Viva
glühwein or enjoy a German beer at
Blackpool, hailed as the Vegas venue in the
the Jägerbarn, tuck into a bratwurst
heart of Blackpool. Concerts, shows, dining,
or indulge in the other culinary
events... this venue has it all. Call 01253
specialities on offer at the Food
297297 or see vivablackpool.com
GTW
COURTESY OF XMAS
MARKETS LTD
Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market runs from November 17
Bristol’s Christmas Ma
rket
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10/07/2018 20:09
The Dean Forest Railway Presents
A Santa Special
PORTSMOUTH VICTORIAN DOCKYARD PRESENTS:
8th, 9th, 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd & 24th December
THE
Visit the Dean Forest Railway this Christmas for your chance to
ride behid a real steam engine with Santa and his helpers on board! Each child will receive an age related gift and each adult will receive a mince pie and a miniature to help keep warm! Groups of 20+ can enjoy the special price of £12 per person (usually £14), and can also book a Christmas lunch in our café. Check out our website for more details and call to book.
www.deanforestrailway.co.uk 01594 845840
DICKENS CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 30 NOV 2 DEC 2018
Why not join us for our post-Christmas “Mince Pie Specials, 29th Dec - 1st Jan? Enjoy a relaxing steam journey through the forest, with a mince pie served on board. a available for groups Discounts are of 20+, as well as on board dining options, such as cream tea & prosecco.
Call: 023 9283 9766 (option 3) Email: phd.groups@nmrn.org.uk
LABELS SHOPPING Ross on Wye | M50/J4
womens | gifts | café | home free meal for coach driver labelsshopping.co.uk | 01989 769 000
With over 200 brands there’s something for everyone at Herefordshire’s Hidden Gem. www.cbwmagazine.com
Ad QP Template.indd 47
May 29, 2018 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 47 13/07/2018 14:15
Dining The opulent Palm Court Restaurant
Get set for Christmas
2018
Dine in style Let’s face it, Christmas is all about the food, and here are some ideas to get your feast started... HESTER’S PLUSH PALM Court Restaurant,
organisers. The package includes an afternoon
American diner
Bar & Piano Lounge at the Grosvenor
of festive fun from midday to 4pm, as well as
Here’s Chris Wales of the Coach Tourism
Pulford welcomes groups of all sizes keen to
a three-course meal and entertainment – and
Association (CTA), with Cheryl Leadbeater
sample the top-notch fare. Opened just last
dates include November 7 and December 5.
and Louise Brown of Kent’s 7 Hotel Diner.
C
month, it’s the brainchild of Harold Nelson,
“We trialled the Christmas lunch
Groups are welcome at the
having been inspired by his love for music and
concept last year,” says Cathy Murphy,
Halstead-based diner, which is just
the original Palms Restaurant at Hillcrest Hotel.
head of group and park sales. “They were
off the M25, and as well as the fantastic
Designed collaboratively by the Nelson
incredibly popular with our GTOs and gave
1950s American fare on offer (from
family and award-winning designers Lister
them a perfect glimpse of what Christmas
homemade sundaes and pancakes to
Carter, the restaurant is suitable for all
is like at Mill Rythe – full of great food,
milkshakes and burgers), special themed
occasions and all guests, with a range of
entertainment and festive cheer.”
events can be organised for groups,
menus on offer, including brunch, lunch
Mill Rythe Holiday Village, which is
including Rock ‘n’ Roll nights with
and afternoon tea. The restaurant, bar and
owned by Away Resorts, also has a host
7 Hotel Diner’s Elvis tribute act – or
lounge can cater for up to 180 people.
of Turkey and Tinsel breaks on offer, with
Michael Bublé, Freddie Mercury and Adele
Discover more, including the hotel’s Christmas
the first one taking place on October 29
tributes if you prefer. A Vegas Supper
offerings, at grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk
for any Christmas early birds out there.
Party and an American-themed Tea Party
These run alongside a number of alternative
can also be arranged for coach parties.
GET IN THE SWING
festive breaks, including the Massive Christmas
Hayling Island’s popular Mill Rythe Holiday
Party on December 14, and The Big Baubles
which has 26 rooms, all with en-suites and
Village is rolling out a series of Christmas
Weekender on December 7. Find out more
room service. See www.7hoteldiner.co.uk
lunches this winter dedicated to group travel
at awayresorts.co.uk/mill-rythe
Make a stay of it at the on site hotel,
GTW
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st o l i r B l a r t n e C Broadmead,
9TH NOVEMBER - 23RD DECEMBER
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Magical Winter Atmosphere · Traditional Chalets Gifts & Presents · German Beer · Bratwurst & GlühWein
FP Template.indd 49
11/07/2018 07:30
Dining The stylish Mielcke & Hurtigkarl
Sue’s friend Heather raises a glass
Expect the finest Danish fare
Jakob has put together a world-class team of chefs
A feast for the senses Run by BBC Masterchef guru Jakob Mielcke, this Copenhagen eaterie takes Nordic cuisine to new levels. Sue Parslow dines like a true Dane at Mielcke & Hurtigkarl
C
OPENHAGEN IS SAID to be the epicentre
YOUR UNDIVIDED ATTENTION
of ‘new Nordic cuisine’, and if you’re
Diners are seated at large circular tables that
waiter’s storytelling for each dish. My companion and I enjoyed 12 courses with wine pairing. Her menu included chicken, duck, goose and wild boar charcuteri, scallop, squid, flounder and turbot. As a vegetarian, I was delighted by the effort that went into creating dishes that matched hers in both in number and appearance. It’s not unusual for me to have to miss out a course, or indeed for vegetarians be excluded altogether by some top chefs! My main course, featuring exotic mushrooms, looked like a replica of her turbot with plums and oxtail.
curious to sample its unique flavours head
have plain white damask cloths and two
PREPARE TO BE SURPRISED
to Mielcke & Hurtigkarl, a stylish restaurant
grooved pebbles (later they support steak
The kitchen prepares dishes using seasonal
in a beautiful garden setting.
knives), a blank canvas for the cutlery and
and fresh ingredients, serving what they are
glasses that appear with each of the dishes.
cooking on the day over various courses.
executive chef Jakob Mielcke, who’s developed
This is to ensure there’s nothing to distract the
There’s a prominence of green in the dishes,
a strong foodie following across the world.
diner’s attention from the food. Indeed, your
said to be inspired by the restaurant’s garden
Multi-award-winning Jakob will be familiar to
undivided attention is required to listen to the
setting. Flavours come to life on your tongue
The restaurant’s the creation of owner and
fans of BBC’s Masterchef as he’s been both a judge and host for four consecutive seasons from 2014 to 2017. Dining here is more than just about the
as you savour each mouthful from the dainty
GET ME THERE: ■ Mielcke
& Hurtigkarl can be found
portions, placed most artistically on designer plates. And like an artist blending colours, the chefs here have an incredible command
food. It’s a 4D experience stimulating all of
at Frederiksberg Gardens, one of
of flavour. There are surprises, too. Ingredients
the senses and challenging you to truly savour
Copenhagen’s oldest royal gardens.
we sampled included an apple essence
each mouthful. It’s intended to spark emotion,
The building itself is almost 300 years
combined with a zingy pine taste enhancing
trigger memories and evoke discussion.
old and has historical links with royalty.
frozen finely sliced cucumber.
To set the scene, you’ll be seated in a large,
■ The
restaurant is open from
This is a meal to be savoured, so make
bright and airy room. Everything here has been
Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm.
no plans post dinner. From being seated
carefully chosen and placed. The walls have
The Daily Experience is priced at
to folding our napkins, four hours were
been decorated with a delicate floral and fauna
800 DKK (around £95) per person.
enjoyably passed. We enjoyed our interactions
theme; art on display includes unique works
■ Find
with the charming manager, Thomas, the
by some of Denmark’s most prominent artists
eaterie at mielcke-hurtigkarl.dk
out more about this fantastic
wine waiter, and one of the chefs too.
and designers, and the musical soundtrack was
In truth, they should all have come out
compiled by Jakob himself.
to take a bow.
GTW
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08/07/2018 10:51
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Hotels Middletons Hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from York city centre
PIXABAY
Get set for Christmas
The great escape Our pick of the best festive getaways...
W
2018
after, head to the Devon coast for a festive break this winter. Torquay’s TLH Leisure Resort has Christmas pretty much covered, with its
ITH ITS ANNUAL Christmas Festival
all this Grade II listed pad has to offer across its
Turkey & Tinsel mid-week breaks, Christmas
(from November 15 to December
56 rooms, split between six listed buildings.
party weekends and more traditional festive
23 this year), historic Minster, world-famous
There’s an elegant restaurant too for
and new year celebration packages on offer. Four hotels make up the TLH resort – the
Jorvik Viking Centre, sinister Dungeons... need
afternoon tea, lunch and dinner, as well as
we go on, York is one popular city in the run
top-notch leisure facilities once you’ve
Derwent, Victoria, Carlton and Toorak – each
up to Christmas, and Middletons Hotel is slap
overdone the fine fare.
with their own style and character.
CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST
on offer at tlh.co.uk
bang in the heart of the action. Check out its website for the latest deals at middletonsyork.co.uk, and get set to enjoy
The TLH Carlton (though it might look a bit less sunny come December!)
If it’s a bracing stroll along the beach you’re
Find out more about all the seasonal deals
AWARD-WINNING SERVICE Voted Choice Hotels’ Hotel of the Year two years running, the Comfort Hotel Great Yarmouth is hugely group-friendly. Just a few minutes’ walk from the beaches and town, this three-star pad has free wi-fi throughout (so you can Skype your relatives over the Christmas hols), 50 en-suite bedrooms, a bar and restaurant and a friendly team of staff who can help your group’s festive plans go with a swing. Find out more at comfortgreatyarmouth.co.uk
A WARM CAMBRIDGE WELCOME Combine a Christmas shopping spree in the beautiful, historic city of Cambridge with a stay at the plush Quy Mill Hotel & Spa at nearby Stow-cum-Quy. This former watermill is the only hotel in Cambridgeshire to be awarded the AA’s coveted Silver Star award. Find out more at cambridgequymill.co.uk
GTW
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10/07/2018 20:11
Scotland’s Best Visitor Attraction for 12 Years
Explore all 5 decks of Her Majesty The Queen’s former floating palace with your complimentary audio guide, available in 30 languages, and enjoy the very highest standards of customer service, every visit.
No Deposit | Fully Accessible | Coach Drop Off www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk | 0131 555 5566 | groups@tryb.co.uk www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk | 0131 555 5566 | groups@tryb.co.uk Registered charity: SC028070
GROUP RATES AVAILABLE
“A peaceful and beautiful hotel within the city walls”
Catering for groups from 10 to 50!
Close proximity to local attractions such as York Minster and National Railway Museum yet a fantastic base for exploring other nearby locations such as Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay, Castle Howard and Yorkshire Moors. Located within the city walls, Middletons is a peaceful and beautiful haven just a short stroll from The Shambles.
CONTACT US NOW FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
01904 611570
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www.middletonsyork.co.uk
11/07/2018 07:47
Group Travel World - Snowdrops & Normandy - FP July 2018_Layout 1 07/06/2018 14:31 Page 1
© Photo courtesy of pixabay.com
N EW Snowdrop Valley and Gardens of the South West F R O M £283
PER PERSON
Come and see Exmoor’s best kept secret; Snowdrop Valley. Located near Wheddon Cross Snowdrop Valley is a truly marvellous feat of nature. On this tour we will also visit the remarkable gardens at Dunster Castle, Knightshayes and the Walled Gardens of Cannington. We stay at the Yarn Market Hotel. SUGGESTED ITINERARY BY COACH Day 1
Travel to your hotel. After a warm welcome, spend time relaxing in the charming Yarn Market Hotel before dinner.
Day 2
Snowdrop Valley and Dunster Castle. Snowdrop Valley is a remote valley in a hidden part of Exmoor close to Wheddon Cross. Visitors can explore the valley while the beautiful carpet of snowdrops is in bloom throughout February each year. We also walk around the gardens at Dunster Castle.
Day 3
Knightshayes – National Trust. Having received a personalised welcome, discover 30 acres of formal and woodland gardens, along with a fully productive kitchen garden and a guided tour of the fascinating Gothic Revival mansion (selected rooms). Here we have a guided tour and enjoy a hot drink and slice of cake. Next we take a scenic drive through the Exmoor National Park.
Day 4
The Walled Gardens of Cannington. The Walled Gardens of Cannington lie within the grounds of a medieval priory. The Gardens have classic and contemporary features including a Botanical Glasshouse where tropical plants can be seen.
Day 5
Return home.
P R I C E I N C LU D E S: • • • •
ABTA protection 4 nights’ Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Trip to Snowdrop Valley Entrance to Knightshayes with guided tour
• Entrance to Walled Gardens of Cannington with guided tour, hot drink and cake • 1 free place with a minimum 25 paying passengers
Undiscovered Nooks of Normandy AP R I L – S E P TE M B E R 2019
F R O M £469
PER PERSON
The rural Pays de Caux on Upper Normandy’s Alabaster Coast has an abundance of history and beautiful landscapes well worth exploring! Discover a different facet of Normandy, visiting the favourite sights of locals. SUGGESTED ITINERARY BY COACH Day 1
Arrive in France. Board your coach and head to Dover for your ferry crossing to Calais. Continue to your hotel in Dieppe.
Day 2
Étretat, Fécamp and Cap Fagnet. Enjoy a little train tour around Étretat and to the top of the famous white cliffs for views of the natural rock arches. Here, visit the quaint Notre Dame de la Garde Chapel. Continue to Fécamp to tour the beautiful Benedictine Palace and taste the liqueur made in its distillery. Finally, visit the highest point of the Alabaster Coast – Cap Fagnet – a strategic military site during WW2.
Day 3
Historical Dieppe. A guided tour offers great insight into Dieppe and its many secrets, before you enjoy this wonderful town at leisure.
Day 4
Veules-les-Roses and the Château Mesnil Geoffroy. Today, discover the most idyllic and authentic village of the Alabaster Coast, Veulesles-Roses. On a guided tour, uncover traces of the village’s history, present in its varied architecture. Wander past watermills, seaside villas, quaint cottages and the picturesque church. Continue to the Château Mesnil Geoffroy. The 17th century castle’s rose garden has 2,700 rose bushes dedicated to the plant’s history and perfume.
Day 5
Return to the UK. Begin your return journey via Calais.
P R I C E I N C LU D E S: • ABTA protection • 5 days coach hire and driver services • 4 nights’ Bed & Breakfast • Return Dover – Calais ferry crossings • Benedictine Palace entrance and tasting
• Étretat train tour • Guided tours of: Cap Fagnet, Fécamp, Dieppe and Veulesles-Roses • Château Mesnil Geoffroy entrance • 1 free place with a minimum 25 paying passengers
To book or for more information please contact our Sales Team
T: 0161 928 3242 | E: sales@greatdays.co.uk
Etretat © Photo courtesy of pixabay.com
N EW
5 DAYS
M O N DAY 11TH F E B R UARY 2019 5 DAYS
TOUR CRAFTED BY A LOCAL
www.greatdays.co.uk
Follow us on
@GreatdaysTravel
Price based on exchange rate of £1.00 = €1.140. All prices are per person and are based on a minimum 25 full fare paying passengers sharing a double or twin room with a free place for the group leader. Prices do not include coach hire unless stated otherwise which will be subject to confirmation of final itinerary. Travel insurance not included. Dates are subject to availability. Smaller groups can be quoted for on request. Pictures are for illustrative purposes only. Greatdays Holidays Ltd are a member of ABTA (YO380) which means you have the benefit of ABTA's assistance and Code of Conduct. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. Greatdays Holidays Limited has an ATOL licence (4279) and all of our air package tours are protected under this licence. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to:www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate
FP Template.indd 54
11/07/2018 07:32
Group Travel World - Ireland - FP July 2018_Layout 1 14/06/2018 11:41 Page 1
Tours to Ireland - Updated & Enhanced for 2019! Great Gardens of Ireland
For Groups Only
Mount Usher Gardens
April – October 2019
Dreaming of Donegal
from
£489 per person
April – October 2019
Day 1 Depart the UK.
Day 1 Depart the UK.
Day 2 Wicklow, Glendalough and Powerscourt Gardens.
Day 2 Slieve League Cliffs & Donegal Bay Cruise.
Day 5 Return to the UK.
January – December 2019 Depart the UK.
Day 2
Sightseeing Bus & Titanic Belfast.
Day 3
Further sightseeing including Crumlin Road Gaol.
Day 4
Day 4 Belleek Pottery & Sligo.
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland; Coach hire in Ireland; 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Tea/coffee on arrival; Entertainment at least 2 nights; Entrance to Powerscourt Gardens, Mount Usher, Kilruddery Gardens and Irish National Stud.
Belfast City Break Day 1
Suitable for groups of 10 or more
Titanic Belfast © NITB Northern Ireland Tourist Board
Day 5 Morning in Derry before returning to the UK.
NEW
from
£369 per person
£399 per person
Depart the UK.
Day 2
HMS Caroline & Game of Thrones scenic drive.
Day 3
HBO’s ‘Game of Thrones’ at Castle Ward & Downpatrick.
Day 4
Return to UK.
Game of Thrones at Castle Ward
For Groups Only
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland; 3 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; HMS Caroline; Winterfell Castle Orientation Tour at Castle Ward.
NEW
FREE BAR
BEST SELLER
Irish House Party in Wexford March – October 2019
£479 per person For Groups Only
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland; Coach hire in Ireland; 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Free bar from 6-9pm each evening; Entertainment programme and excursions as above.
from
Irish House Party in Tipperary £505 per person
from
Depart the UK – Entertainment after dinner. Waterford City & Waterford Crystal; evening entertainment. Wicklow, Glendalough and Mount Usher. Enjoy the Celtic Roots dance show. Kilkenny and Dunbrody Famine Ship; evening entertainment. Return to the UK.
January – April & October – December 2019 Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5
|
E: sales@greatdays.co.uk
|
For Groups Only
Depart the UK – Irish coffee demo after dinner. Kilkenny Road train, Smithwicks brewery; evening live entertainment. Free day in Galway. Evening bingo. Irish National stud, Newbridge silverware museum; evening Quiz. Return to the UK.
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland; Coach hire in Ireland; 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Free bar from 6-9pm each evening; Entertainment programme and excursions as above.
To book or for more information please contact our Sales Team
T: 0161 928 3242
from
GAME OF THRONES TOUR
Day 1
Return to UK.
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland; Coach hire in Ireland; 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast; Slieve League Cliffs; Cruise on Donegal Bay; Glenveagh National Park; Castle & Old Lifford Courthouse; Belleek Pottery Tour.
Rediscover Ireland
March – October 2019
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland; Airport transfers; 48 hour hop-on hop;off bus ticket; 3 nights bed & breakfast; Titanic & Crumlin Road Gaol tour.
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5
Glenveagh Castle and Garden
from
£489 per person
Day 3 Glenveagh National Park including Castle, & Old Lifford Courthouse.
Day 3 Mount Usher and Kilruddery Gardens. Day 4 Kildare, Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens.
For Groups Only
www.greatdays.co.uk
Follow us on
@GreatdaysTravel
Prices do not include travel insurance. Transport not included unless specified. Dates subject to availability. All flights based on low cost airline. 1 piece of hold luggage included per person. Exchange rate £1 = €1.13. All prices include ATOL protection. Prices based on 20 paying passengers and include 1 free place for the group leader. Please contact us for more details on routes. Greatdays Holidays Ltd has an ATOL licence (4279) and all of our air package tours are protected under this licence. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to:www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate
FP Template.indd 55
12/07/2018 21:59
N O W 19 O 20 LE N 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
places for groups over 20 people
A choice of 7 fantastic seaside locations spread across 8 hotels
Dedicated groups team to support you from booking to arrival
Great value half board breaks including nightly entertainment
Award winning customer service
Fleet of 22 luxury coaches to provide comfortable travel
Get in touch with us Today!
Call 01202 638 841 or visit daishs.com facebook.com/daishsholidaysforgroups Isle of Wight FP Template.indd 56
Torquay
Bournemouth
Eastbourne
@daishs4groups Llandudno
Newquay
Weymouth 11/07/2018 07:33
Free for you
3 to collect! We have three fantastic city skyline posters for you to collect
THIS ISSUE: PARIS
ALL PHOTOS: PIXABAY
LAST ISSUE: LONDON
NEXT ISSUE: NEW YORK
Frame it! Upgrade to a framed, A4-sized high quality print of one, two or all three of our collectible posters for just £4.99 each. Call Emma on 01733 293487 to pay by credit or debit card or order online at grouptravelworld.com/ gtwshop
TURN OVER FOR THIS ISSUE’S POSTER WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
057-059 GTW Jul 18 Poster.indd 57
57
08/07/2018 10:53
PARIS grouptravelworld.com & grouptraveloffers.com
057-059 GTW Jul 18 Poster.indd 58
08/07/2018 10:53
057-059 GTW Jul 18 Poster.indd 59
08/07/2018 10:53
Industry insider The Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes in Florida COACH TOURISM
ASSOCIATION
Check in... LOUISE FITZPATRICK
For more on the CTA – and the exclusive benefits of becoming a member – visit coachtourismassociation .co.uk
Louise Fitzpatrick of Marriott Hotels is a CTA Board Member who strives to ensure the hotel chain is as group-friendly as possible
I
’VE WORKED FOR Marriott Hotels for
industry in many key areas, such as including
14 years, and been their National Account
a three-course, three-choice dinner, flexible
exception of London, deal with their enquiries
Manager – Leisure for the past six years. I
dining times and one free place with 20 paying
from end to end, giving our customers direct
manage all our leisure group and transient
passengers or more. At Marriott, we always aim
contact with the hotel team from the very
partnerships, and I’m pleased to say this
to provide that winning combination: the best
beginning. We know this is important because
enables me to have day to day contact with a
night’s sleep, outstanding service and high-
we see this in the feedback we receive.
wide range of colleagues and friends in both
quality facilities at a wide choice of destinations.
Another innovation is the introduction of a
key leisure groups and coach companies. You never stop learning in this business,
FACE-TO-FACE CONTACT
but I like to think that I now have a level
In an average week I can travel 500 to 700
of experience and knowledge to be able
miles visiting our key partners – well, I did
to work effectively with our partners to
always want to work in the travel industry!
ensure they get the service they need.
But the fact of the matter is that real
On a more personal level, all hotels, with the
new ‘Multi venue desk’ for our customers who require a quotation from more than one hotel in a one-stop shop environment.
CTA BENEFITS While I travel to see customers face to face,
With over 53 hotels across key city,
service is about meeting people face-to-face,
the CTA gives me the opportunity to further
town and airport locations across the UK,
and with this in mind my aim is to visit five or
develop these relationships in a less formal
including 10 hotel and country clubs, Marriott
six clients every week. Of course, providing
setting. It doesn’t always have to be about the
offers a group-friendly environment to suit
the right service is a two-way street, so my
business; it’s also a great opportunity to meet
every requirement. From coach parking and
team and I work closely with our hotels
with new operators within the industry.
double bedrooms to extensive leisure and
to educate them as to what’s important
fitness facilities and welcoming restaurants
to our coach and tour operator partners.
be representing our members to help drive
and bars, our hotels are the perfect base
For example, we’re currently reviewing our
the industry forward. And as a hotelier on the
to explore the surrounding areas.
Group Guarantee, and will be introducing a
Board, I aim to ensure our hotelier members
new menu offering for our partners across
have a voice and are represented for key
our managed estate in the near future.
decisions within the organisations. GTW
The Marriott Group Guarantee shows the company’s commitment to the group leisure
As a CTA Board Member I believe we should
60 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
060 GTW Jul 18 CTA.indd 60
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Entertainment
Your dedicated, responsive and friendly team for all your West End Theatre bookings. Call the award-winning team now!
Freephone 0800 049 8309 reservations@groupsdirect.co.uk www.groupsdirect.co.uk 057_GTW_Mar17_Theatre_Cover.indd 57 The Cat In The Hat_Group Travel World_advert_aw.indd 1 FP Template.indd 51 051_GTW_JULY'17.indd 51 FP 61 FP Template.indd Template.indd 19
23/02/2017 09:10 11/07/2018 08:35 02/11/2017 10:46 12:11 30/06/2017 17:33 12/07/2018 22:02 14/06/2018 06/02/2018 09:28
Little Shop of Horrors Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre has announced its cast of Little Shop of Horrors, which is set to play at the theatre from August 3 to September 15. Marc Antolin and Jemima Rooper will play Seymour and Audrey, with Forbes Masson in the role of East Side florist Mr Mushnik. Matt Willis as sadistic dentist Orin, and US drag queen Vicky Vox as the plant, Audrey II. For the misfits of Skid Row, life is full of broken dreams and dead ends. But there’s hope on the horizon for flower shop assistant, Seymour, when he discovers a mysterious new plant (Audrey II) with killer potential. Director Maria Aberg says: “The figure of Audrey II represents chaos at the heart of the downtrodden, deeply conventional world of Skid Row. Fuelled by Seymour’s own wish for success she grows increasingly demanding, increasingly glamorous, and increasingly unreasonable, until she’s conquered the whole of New York.” Find out more at openairtheatre.com, which is also home to Dinosaur World Live from August 14 to September 9.
Shakespeare at The Swan
Full casting has now been announced for the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Tartuffe at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. Asif Khan will play the title role, joined by Salman Akhtar as Waqaas, Raj Bajaj as Damee Pervaiz and James Clyde as Khalil. Set in the Pakistani Muslim community in Birmingham, Tartuffe tells the story of charismatic chameleon Tahir Taufiq
Turn to page 70 for more festive show ideas
Arsuf, a Rasputin for the 21st century armed with a Twitter handle and the gift of the gab... Tartuffe runs from September 7 to February 23, 2019. And there’s still time to grab tickets for the RSC’s production August 4 to September 22 at Stratford’s
Twinkling with festive spirit
Royal Shakespeare Theatre. If you miss
Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s The
this run, it later transfers to London’s
Snowman returns for a record-breaking 21st
Barbican Theatre from December 7 to
year this winter at The Peacock Theatre in
– including the now-famous Walking
January 5, 2019.
Holborn. Based on the book by Raymond
in the Air – the show is a mix of dance,
Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson,
spectacle and storytelling, with music
and produced by John Coates, the show
performed by a live orchestra. It runs
transports the audience to a wintery world of a
from November 22 to January 6, 2019.
of The Merry Wives of Windsor, from
For more on all the shows mentioned here see rsc.org.uk
boy and his magical snowman. With music and lyrics by Howard Blake
62 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Theatre news The Nightingales Gavin and Stacey star Ruth Jones, pictured here, is set to make a rare stage appearance in new comedy The Nightingales. The show, which opens in Bath in October, will then tour Cambridge, Cardiff, Chichester and Malvern, prior to a West End transfer. Catch it at the following venues: ■ Bath’s
Theatre Royal, from October 31 to November 10
■ Cambridge ■ Cardiff’s
■ Chichester ■ Malvern
Arts Theatre, from November 12-17
New Theatre, from November 19-24 Festival Theatre, from November 27 to December 1
Festival Theatre, from December 3-8
Kemp stars as Billy Flynn Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp, pictured here, is currently starring as smooth-talking lawyer Billy Flynn in the award-winning West End hit show Chicago. Martin, who played Reggie Kray alongside his brother Gary in the film The Krays, will be taking centre stage at the Phoenix Theatre until the beginning of September. Following a successful UK and international tour, and after a five-year absence from London, Chicago began performances at the Phoenix Theatre back in March, and is now booking until October 2018. Call the box office on 0844 871 7629. And another thing... Since it opened in New York in 1996, Chicago has played in 36 countries worldwide, and been performed in English, Dutch, German, Swedish, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, French, Danish, Japanese and Korean.
Disney celebrations
The King and I
Sounds and Sorcery celebrating Disney Fantasia – a brand new immersive experience at London’s
Winner of four Tony awards, Rodgers and
The Vaults – has now opened in celebration of Mickey Mouse’s 90th anniversary. Inspired by the
Hammerstein’s The King and I has opened
classic 1940 Disney film, a series of unique installations will bring some of the world’s most iconic
at the London Palladium for a limited
classical music to life. The production runs until the end of September, see soundsandsorcery.com
season. The show runs until September 29, see kingandimusical.co.uk
GTW
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Shakespeare in the sun Jemma Keegan enjoys Stamford Shakespeare Company’s production of the Merchant of Venice, played out in the al fesco setting of historic Tolethorpe Hall in Lincolnshire
I
exhibition space (showing the elaborate costumes from past performances), and its stunning landscaped gardens, have been lovingly brought back to life by a group of enthusiastic volunteers, makes the venue even more impressive than it already is. Before the performance – of venerable Bill’s Merchant of Venice – we were able to enjoy a drink in the gardens. We weren’t alone, as sumptuous picnicking on blankets and camping chairs before curtains up is a
T WAS A fair midsummer’s eve as my
house, brought back to life in the late ’70s
friend and I arrived at Stamford’s beautiful
by the founding members of the Company,
Tolethorpe tradition. Of course, in an outdoor theatre venue,
Tolethorpe for an evening of Shakespearean
to establish a permanent base for their
there are no curtains, but as we filtered
comedy. Set in a tranquil, rural setting among
thespian pursuits.
through to the purpose-built (and permanent,
Lincolnshire fields and hills, just outside Stamford, Tolethorpe Hall was a derelict manor
The fact that the hall, which accommodates a restaurant, tea room, theatre bar and
tarpaulin-covered) auditorium, we were impressed by the quality of the set. We were
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Theatre review Stunning landscaped gardens, lovingly brought back to life by a group of enthusiastic volunteers, make the venue even more impressive
The purpose-built (and permanent, tarpaulincovered) auditorium
transported to 16th century
Stamford Shakespeare Company’s summer series continues until September 1 at Tolethorpe Hall in Lincolnshire, see stamfordshakespeare .co.uk
Venice, with balconied villas, a pergola and even a strip of canal water against the natural backdrop of established trees and rhododendron. The air temperature was now definitely not Italian,
Nerissa and Portia
The cast take the audience back to 16th century Venice
before long we were
entwined in the tale of suitors, money lending (the notorious “pound of flesh”) and Shakespearian cross-dressing and mistaken identity.
A PREMIER VENUE During the interval there was long enough for a drink at the bar or homemade cake and tea, served by volunteers in the exhibition space. All in all, the experience was very
As the sun set against the background
much one of a community event, but with
however, so we wished we had brought
of old Venice, and the sound of birdsong at
the facilities and quality of a professional
blankets for warmth, like the other guests.
twilight accompanied the action on stage, the
theatre company.
POUND OF FLESH...
atmosphere seemed perfectly, quintessentially
The Stage described it as ‘One of Europe’s
English. At which point, as if to prove a point,
premier alfresco theatre venues,’ and it would
“In sooth, I know not why I am so sad.”
a pigeon flew in to the auditorium, flapping
be hard to argue with that.
Antonio’s delivery of his opening lines
wildly as it tried to make its escape.
confirmed that although amateur dramatics,
This was a comedy, though, so the British
With three shows on offer during their summer season, The Merry Wives of Windsor
titter this elicited added to the humour
and Sheridan’s The School for Scandal the
generated on stage (Portia’s camp suitor the
other performances, I’d gladly come back
Reid as Portia, and the inimitable Shylock,
Prince of Arragon with his little pug dog on a
again, but this time with picnic basket...
played by Mick Franklin, were impressive, and
lead being another highlight).
and blanket.
this wasn’t going to be an amateur performance. The lead actors, particularly Lucy Thornton-
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Hit show Kinky Boots is playing at the Adelphi Theatre
Theatre LONDON
MATT CROCKET
YOUR TRIP TO THE WEST END STARTS HERE – VISIT OUR SITE GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM FOR THE BEST TICKET PRICES ALADDIN Prince Edward Theatre
Booking to: November 2018 Times: Weds & Sat Part One
Thurs & Sat 15:00
Booking to: August 2018
14.00 & Part Two 19:30; Thurs
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Part One 19:30; Fri Part Two
MATILDA – THE MUSICAL
Thurs & Sat 14:30
19:30; Sun Part One 13.00,
Cambridge Theatre
Part Two 18:30
Booking to: February 2019
THE BOOK OF MORMON Prince of Wales Theatre
KINKY BOOTS
New London Theatre Booking to: January 2019
Weds & Sat 14:30
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
MOTOWN THE MUSICAL
Weds & Sat 14:30
Shaftesbury Theatre
Booking to: August 2018
Booking to: October 2018
Times: Tues-Sat 19:30; Sat
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
14:30; Sun 15.00 & 19.00
Weds & Sat 14:30
DREAMGIRLS
THE LION KING
Weds & Sat 14:30
Sun 15:00
Booking to: September 2018
Criterion Theatre
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
SCHOOL OF ROCK
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30,
Queen’s Theatre
Booking to: December 2018
19:30; Weds & Sat 14:30hrs,
Adelphi Theatre
LES MISÉRABLES
Theatre Royal
Times: Tues 19:00; Weds-Sat
Booking to: August 2018
THE COMEDY ABOUT A BANK ROBBERY
42ND STREET
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30, Thurs & Sat 14:30; Sun 15:00
Booking to: January 2019
THRILLER LIVE
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Lyric Theatre
Thurs & Sat: 15:00
Booking to: September 2018
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
Times: Tues-Fri 19:30; Sat 16:00 & 20.00; Sun 15:30 & 19:30
Her Majesty’s Theatre
WICKED
Booking to: August 2018
Apollo Victoria
Lyceum Theatre
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Booking to: May 2019
Booking to: August 2018
Booking to: August 2018
Thurs & Sat 14:30
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Times: Tues-Sat 19:30,
Weds & Sat 14:30
Weds, Sat & Sun 14:30
HARRY POTTER & THE CURSED CHILD (parts 1 & 2)
MAMMA MIA!
Palace Theatre
Savoy Theatre
THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
Weds & Sat 14:30
THE WOMAN IN BLACK
Duchess Theatre
Fortune Theatre
Novello Theatre
Booking to: September 2018
Booking to: January 2019
Booking to: October 2018
Times: Tue-Sat 19:30; Sat
Times: Mon-Sat 20:00;
Times: Mon-Sat 19:45;
14:30; Sun 15:00 & 19:00
Tues & Thurs 15:00; Sat 16.00
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Touring theatre
To buy cut-price tickets to a range of West End shows see grouptraveloffers.com or call Harley in the GTW office on 01733 293249
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BBC
THE UK’S BEST MUSICALS AND SHOWS HAVE HIT THE ROAD. CATCH THEM ON TOUR HERE...
Ore Oduba, winner of the 2016 Strictly glitter ball. Strictly Come Dancing – The Professionals starts its tour in May 2019
SHREK THE MUSICAL
October 4-13
Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: until July 22
Sheffield Lyceum Theatre: October 16-20
Milton Keynes Theatre: July 25 - August 5 Bristol Hippodrome: August 8-19 Llandudno Venue Cymru: August 21 - September 2 Leeds Grand Theatre: December 18 - January 6, 2019
THE BAND Edinburgh Playhouse: until July 14 Southend Cliffs Pavilion: September 19-29 His Majesty’s Theatre:
Wimbledon Theatre: October 23-27 Oxford New Theatre: October 30 - November 3
Woking New Victoria: February 19-23 Wolverhampton Grand: February 26 - March 2 Milton Keynes Theatre: March 5-9
Dublin Bord Gais Energy Theatre: November 6-10
Southampton Mayflower Theatre: March 12-16
Grand Opera House: November 13-24
MISS SAIGON
2019 Salford The Lowry: January 16-26 Swansea Grand Theatre: January 29 - February 2
Plymouth Theatre Royal: until August 4 Norwich Theatre Royal: August 15 - September 15
Dartford Orchard Theatre: February 5-9
Bradford Alhambra: September 19 - October 20
Ipswich Regent Theatre: February 12-16
Sunderland Empire: October 24 - November 17
Shrek the Musical is on tour until early next year
Don’t miss! ■ Strictly
Come Dancing – The Professionals is set to tour the country from May 2019 for a 35-date UK tour. It promises a glamorous production bringing together Strictly’s favourite professional dancers to the same stage. See strictlytheprofessionals.com
■ Wet
Wet Wet’s Marti Pellow will star as Abanazar in Dartford Orchard Theatre’s Aladdin, from December 8-30. Find out more at orchardtheatre.co.uk – and turn to page 70 for more festive shows and pantos.
■ Enjoy
the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s series of summer shows, including The Music of Bond at the Royal Albert Hall (in the evening of Wednesday September 19), and Symphonic Pop (in the evening of Friday October 12). Discounts apply for groups of six or more – see rpo.co.uk
■ Wicked
the Musical continues its UK tour with dates at Dublin’s Bord Gais Energy Theatre (from July 17 to September 1), see wickedthemusical.co.uk/uk-tour Royal Shakespeare Company’s award-winning production of Matilda The Musical has now launched its first ever UK and Ireland tour, which runs until August 2019. See matildathemusical.com
TRISTRAM KENT
■ The
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THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TRADITION FOR ALL THE FAMILY
Dancer: Shiori Kase. Photo © Jason Bell. Art Direction and Design: Charlotte Wilkinson Studio
NU TC R AC KE R
THE SUNDAY EXPRESS
BOOK NOW
Great Group Rates
13 – 30 DEC 2018 ballet.org.uk/nutcracker
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Registered Charity 214005
7/5/2018 11:35:35 AM 11/07/2018 07:34
Theatre news
Christmas is coming… 6
The Thursford Christmas Spectacular
of the best festive shows and events
Get set for Christmas
2018
1
THURSFORD SPECTACULAR
playing at Leicester’s Curve theatre from
AND IN OTHER THEATRE NEWS...
An uplifting, glittering festive celebration,
December 6 to January 13. 2019. To buy
The Ticket Factory has appointed Kelly Sharman
this year’s Thursford Christmas Spectacular,
tickets for the musical call 0116 242 3595
as its sales manager for group bookings, as it
held at the Thursford Collection in Fakenham,
or see curveonline.co.uk
strives to offer an improved, more personal
takes place from November 6 to December 23. See thursford.com/christmas-spectacular
2
ALADDIN AT HACKNEY EMPIRE
5
FESTIVE DOUBLE BILL AT THE ROYAL & DERNGATE
level of customer service for both existing and prospective clients. Kelly says: “We’ll be seizing new opportunities within the groups market,
Northampton’s Royal & Derngate theatre
working in collaboration with more event
has a Christmas double bill of world premieres
organisers, so we can offer a varied and
announced that the Olivier Award-winning
for its Made in Northampton 2018 season.
exciting portfolio of events.”
Grande Dame of pantomime, Clive Rowe,
The Worst Witch runs from November 27
is set to return to the East End stage for the
to December 30, and The Everywhere Bear
Factory, and the variety of events on offer,
theatre’s 2018 pantomime. The show runs
runs from November 29 to January 6, 2019.
see theticketfactory.com
from November 24 to January 6, 2019,
Find out more about both festive shows at
see hackneyempire.co.uk
royalandderngate.co.uk
3
6
London’s famous Hackney Empire has
EXTRA WICKED! Hit West End musical Wicked has
announced its festive performance schedule,
This year, Bridlington Spa in East Yorkshire
is once again teaming up with one of the country’s leading pantomime producers,
27, 28 and 30, as well as January 3, 2019.
Paul Holman Associates, to present the
See WickedTheMusical.co.uk
much-loved story of Jack and the Beanstalk.
4
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas will be
GTW
PANTO AT BRIDLINGTON SPA
with five extra shows added on December 24,
CHRISTMAS AT THE CURVE
For more on group bookings with The Ticket
Running from December 14 until January 6, 2019, call the box office for tickets on 01262 678258 or visit bridspa.com
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Written & directed by
SUSIE McKENNA Original Music by
STEVEN EDIS Production Designer
LOTTE COLLETT
Group Discount Availables ! See webs ite for details
24 Nov – 6 Jan FP Template.indd 71
HACKNEYEMPIRE.CO.UK
020 8985 2424 11/07/2018 07:34
PIXABAY
Hamburg is home to more than 30 Christmas markets, see hamburg.com for details of this year’s events
PLAIN SAILING Not sure if cruising’s for you? Dip your toe in the water with a taster cruise, says Mike Pickup, as he explores two cities well loved for their Christmas markets
Tilbury in Essex just in time for lunch. A few of the first-time cruisers were concerned about possible sea-sickness, so it was interesting to note that later that afternoon many were unaware we’d actually sailed down the Thames and into the North Sea, heading to our first port of call, Amsterdam. Later, I popped into the Palladium show lounge to enjoy the live entertainment before pre-dinner drinks. There were two fixed dining times for dinner in the
C
restaurant, plus the more flexible buffet, RUISING ACCOUNTS FOR around
sample life at sea on a short break exploring
offering a good choice of food with waiters
four per cent of all foreign holidays,
Europe’s cities and Christmas market havens.
on hand to bring drinks from the bar.
which means most people have never tried
Cruise ships, like hotels, cater for different
it. There’s always the risk that it’s not your
markets. Some are great for families and
AMSTERDAM’S FINEST
thing and, unlike a hotel, you can’t easily
kids; others suit a more mature clientele.
After a good night’s sleep in a roomy cabin,
leave and come home. However, a number
I chose the latter, although there were plenty
Columbus arrived in Amsterdam. The cruise
of companies schedule cruises of two to
of younger people on board, and Cruise
terminal is close to the city so it’s easy to
four nights, offering passengers a chance to
& Maritime Voyages’ Columbus left from
explore on your own, and staff were on hand
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Cruise holidays
Amsterdam’s Hermitage Museum
they spread out on the counter,
2018
lunch as she sailed back to sea on her way to our next
happy to mark places of interest.
stop, Hamburg, where we
Apparently one of the skills they
arrived the following afternoon.
quickly learn is the ability to read maps upside down.
River boats give a waterside take on the city’s architecture and history
MIKE PICKUP
Get set for Christmas to hand out street maps, which
MIKE PICKUP
MIKE PICKUP
Hordes of bikes? It must be Amsterdam...
NEXT STOP: HAMBURG
The lower brick section is primarily devoted to parking, the hotel spa and conference centre, and the music education studios Hamburg has two lakes, the inner and outer Alster, and I took a boat trip to admire the surrounding buildings, from the Town
Columbus docked some way from the town
Hall to pretty restaurants. Then it was on
outside the terminal, boarded a river boat for
so there was a free shuttle service between
to the efficient underground service for a
a tour of the canals, passing notable places
the ship and the town centre for those wanting
short ride to the Reeperbahn, Hamburg’s
such as Anne Frank’s house. The journey
to explore on their own.
famous ‘red light’ and entertainment street.
I opted for one of the excursions and, just
ended outside an imposing building, once
Again I opted for a guided tour, which
Running north from it, near the station,
accommodation for old people but now home
started with a coach ride through the city,
is Große Freiheit or Great Freedom, home
to the Hermitage Museum, which borrows
stopping off at various places of interest
to numerous establishments including the
items from the famous Hermitage collection in
including the new Elbphilharmonie complex
famous Dolls House table dancing club.
St Petersburg. Appropriately it had a priceless
with its impressive glass facade and wave-like
There is even a male strip club for ladies.
collection of paintings by Dutch Old Masters
rooftop. It sits on top the former ‘Kaispeicher
Incongruously, amongst all this is a Catholic
on display and, unlike its parent in Russia, didn’t
A’ warehouse and accommodates two
church. I bet the confessional is fully booked!
suffer from large crowds and long queues.
concert halls, a studio, a hotel and residential
At the junction of the Reeperbahn
apartments. Between the old warehouse and
and Große Freiheit I found Beatles-Platz,
absorbed a little of the atmosphere of this
the glass structure is the Plaza, a public viewing
along with its outline statue of the famous
unique city before boarding Columbus for
area that extends around the whole building.
band. I enjoyed a Beatles tour given by
From there I strolled back to the ship and
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Cruise holidays The Palladium show lounge on board CMV’s Columbus
GET ME THERE: ■ Cruise
& Maritime Voyages
offers a number of two to four night cruises from Tilbury in Essex, with prices from £139pp. ■ CMV
offer a coach service from
Victoria to Tilbury. Alternatively, Tilbury town station is only a mile away from the London Cruise Terminal MIKE PICKUP
and there’s a shuttle service from the station to the nearby ferry. ■ For
groups of 12 or more there’s up to
well-known guide Stefanie Hempel who
teenagers at the time and the drummer was
a further 10% group discount (in addition
illustrated her tour with songs from the Fab
Pete Best. They met Ringo Starr in Hamburg
to per person Saver Fares), plus a free
Four, accompanying herself on a Ukelele
– he was already a seasoned professional
place if 20 passengers are booked, and
– certainly a guided tour to remember.
while they were mere beginners – but it was
two free places if 40 passengers are
nearly two years before he joined them.
booked. Groups of 30 or more are given
Stefanie pointed out legendary Hamburg venues, including Kaiserkeller, Indra and
Then it was back to the ship for dinner
a special welcome aboard cocktail party.
the Star Club. Many top musicians played
and another good night’s sleep. The
■ To
here in the sixties, such as Bill Haley, Chuck
following day was a sea day as Columbus
cruiseandmaritime.com or call
Berry, Jimi Hendrix, the Everly Brothers and
headed back to Tilbury, where we docked
0844 998 3787.
Gene Vincent. The Beatles also played here
around 7am, just in time for breakfast
before they became famous; they were just
before heading to the car park and home.
find out more go to GTW
MAXIM SCHUL
The new Elbphilharmonie complex in Hamburg
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Advertorial The musical entertainment of
It’s festival time!
the original Bavarian singer was a huge success last year, so the organisers have decided to bring him back for 2018. So you can listen to live traditional Christmas music and Bavarian folk songs. Another real highlight of the market for children is the fact Santa arrives every day after the show to open yet another little door of the large Christmas calendar. Santa will hand out presents to children – which is why it’s a great idea to take the whole family down to the market to have some fun and get a special surprise from Santa. This is a
Stock up on all your festive gifts – and see Santa flying through the air – at the Southampton Christmas Festival
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special attraction for children of all ages to look forward to. Presents and candy for the children, buying gifts for your
ELA Märkte GmbH
– and that means watching
It also means stopping at
loved ones and having a glass
is the German
the Flying Santa Show, having
a candied almonds stall and
of mulled wine for the adults,
company organising this year’s
a glass of mulled wine, buying
buying your sweetheart a
while both young and old can
Southampton Christmas Festival.
special Christmas gifts that
gingerbread heart that says
try a German Bratwurst... the
It specialises in setting up typical
can’t be found anywhere else,
“I love you” – which is a fond
Southampton Christmas Festival
German Christmas markets
and dancing to live music.
tradition in Germany.
offers something for everybody.
See the gleaming Engine Room and Royal Sailing Exhibition before heading to the Royal Deck Tea Room. With a menu of freshly baked scones and cakes, made in the Royal Galley, as well as winter warmers of steaming hot chocolate, the Tea Room is the perfect place to relax and take in stunning waterfront views to the Firth of Forth and Fife. Visit during Royal Yacht Britannia’s special annual Christmas weekend, from December 8-9, for a special tour where each visitor will enjoy a complimentary glass of mulled wine and buttery shortbread
Enjoy a Christmas treat on board The Queen’s former floating palace on a trip to Edinburgh’s Royal Yacht Britannia
S
in the Crew’s Quarters. Visit Scotland’s Best Visitor Attraction for the past 12 years running, and TripAdvisor’s Top 5 UK Landmark Attraction,
TEP ABOARD the Royal
sparkling State Apartments,
30 languages, while you tour
come for a fantastic day
Yacht Britannia this Christmas,
as seen in the Netflix series
the five accessible decks and
out aboard The Queen’s
where it will be celebrating the
The Crown, adorned with
imagine life as one of the
former floating palace.
festive season in style. Follow
beautiful Christmas decorations.
220 Royal Yachtsmen who
in the footsteps of the British
Listen to the complimentary
Royal family as you tour the
HP Template.indd 75
audio guides, available in
To book your group’s visit with
served on board in the
Pete and Laura, call 0131 555
Crew’s Quarters.
8800 or email groups@tryb.co.uk
12/07/2018 22:14
Dinant’s Citadel towers over the Belgian town
Sax in the city
Southern Belgium, or Wallonia, is only a couple of hours’ drive from Calais, but it’s a region often overlooked by us Brits. Stuart Render reveals its quirks and curiosities
© WBT/ANIBAL TREJO
ALKING THROUGH THE streets
quite right. The person next to you has his arm
of the picturesque Belgian town
stretched out along the back of the bench,
of Dinant you spot a bench up ahead. Ah,
and he’s not moving it. You turn to see who
time to rest your feet. Oh, there’s already
this person is, and you get quite a shock. This
someone sitting on the bench, but no matter,
isn’t a real person at all, but a bronze statue
they surely won’t mind if you join them.
– and there’s a saxophone sitting in his lap...
You take your seat. But something’s not
You’ve just done what many thousands
and taken a seat next to Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, and arguably Dinant’s most famous son. The statue is an invitation to visit La Maison de Monsieur Sax. This small attraction is located in a building just behind the bench on the very spot where Adolphe was born on 6 November 1814. This isn’t a museum,
Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone, no less
© WBT/ALESSANDRA PETROSINO
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of visitors to Dinant do every year,
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Belgium
Get set for Christmas
2018
more an ‘interpretive centre’ that helps you
28 large, multi-coloured saxophones. Erected
discover more about the history of both
in 2010 to represent the European Union and
IN BLOOM
Adolphe and the saxophone. It doesn’t
the instrument’s connection with the town,
The Meuse links Dinant with the city of
take very long to have a look around, but
each sax is decorated to represent a different
Namur, and many visitors combine the
it’s all very nicely done, and you’ll emerge
European country.
two destinations. On the way to Namur,
back into the street with a newly-found
Unusual though the bridge is, you probably
stop off at the Jardins d’Annevoie. These
appreciation of this musical genius. ‘The
won’t be looking at the saxophones for long
remarkable gardens feature more than
House of Mr Sax’ is open every day from
either. The reason is that the bridge gives the
20 ornamental ponds and lakes, all fed
9am to 7pm and is free to enter.
best view in town of Dinant’s other major
by 50 or so waterfalls, jets and cascades,
attraction, its Citadel. Perched high on a cliff
and all powered by gravity.
TOWERING INTO VIEW
above the town, the Citadel that you see
Once a year, usually in May, the
There’s another sax-related surprise in
today is a relatively recent construction,
gardens play host to a Venetian Carnival
Dinant. The town sits on the River Meuse, and
completed in 1815, although there have been
Festival. During this three-day event,
crossing the river in the centre of Dinant is the
fortifications on the site since the 9th century.
around 100 people dressed in full
Should you feel fit, there are 408 stone
Venetian carnival costumes slowly
Charles de Gaulle Bridge. The former French president was shot in the leg during WWI
steps to reach the top. Alternatively,
wander around the gardens. It’s a
as he passed through Dinant, and a statue
take the little cable car and enjoy the
most magnificent sight, and the nearby
at one end of the bridge tells the story. But
spectacular views as you’re lifted gently
Duboq brewery offers group tours.
you probably won’t be looking at the statue
up the cliff face. Information panels in
because along both sides of the bridge are
the Citadel tell Dinant’s story, and you WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Belgium The snail is the unofficial symbol of Namur, the ‘capital’ of Wallonia
and original ways, propelled by human force
Utopia’, was originally a temporary exhibition
alone along a 1km-long course. Each year
piece, but the people of Namur loved it so
more than 25,000 people descend on the
much that the town ended up buying it.
town and the river to watch the spectacle.
MAKING LIKE A SNAIL
and Chateau de Vêves are two of Wallonia’s
Namur, the ‘capital’ of Wallonia, has a reputation
most famous buildings, the former housing
for a relaxed, slow pace of life. No surprise
museums that depict the everyday way of life
then that the snail is the unofficial symbol of
in the 17th century; the latter a remarkable
the city. Take a guided walking tour around the
example of 15th century military architecture.
old town and you’ll find yourself in the Place
The ‘Three Valleys Steam Railway’ takes you
d’Armes where you’ll come across another
through the delightful Belgian countryside,
curiosity. Two bronze snails, one on a lead and
while not far away, in the little village of
the other in a cage, sit side-by-side with the
Hans-sur-Lesse, a 100-year-old tram takes
can visit the dungeons, kitchens and the
bronze statues of two men. But what’s it all
you on a trip to the entrance of the Caves
fascinating carriages and weapon museum.
about? It seems that the men are concerned
of Han, the most famous caves in Europe.
TAKING TO THE WATER The River Meuse is the lifeblood of Dinant,
that the snails might race away because the pace of life in Namur is too slow, even for them! But while the pace of life today might be
Get me there:
attracting many thousands of visitors
slow, it wasn’t always so. High above the old
■ The
keen to enjoy a boat trip or one of the
town is the vast former military citadel, once
has produced a new group travel guide,
many water-based sporting and leisure
one of the mightiest fortresses in Europe, and
‘Surprising Discoveries’. It’s full of ideas to
activities. A popular excursion for groups
today the city’s pride and joy. You can take
help you create memorable group visits
is to combine a boat trip with a visit to
a tour by road train, visit the Guy Delforge
to southern Belgium. You get the feeling
the nearby Chateau Freyr and Gardens.
Perfumery and take a beer-tasting tour in
that Adolphe Sax would have approved...
Europe’s largest network of underground
■ For
Beaufort-Spontin has a definite air of Versailles
passages and caverns. But as we’ve come to
visits and to get your free copy of
about it, and the riverside location is rather
expect in Wallonia, there’s always something
Surprising Discoveries, email
impressive too.
quirky just around the corner. As you make
trade@walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk
your way towards the citadel you see a
■ For
scene of the International Bathtub Regatta,
statue of a giant golden sea turtle being
about Wallonia, go to www.
a unique sporting event that sees a fleet
ridden by a man. Created in 2015 by Belgian
walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk
of floating bathtubs decorated in unusual
contemporary artist Jan Fabre, ‘Searching for
This former summer house of the Dukes of
On August 15 each year the river is also the
© WBT/J P REMY
Namur province isn’t short of other quirks and curiosities. Chateau Lavaux Sainte Anne
Belgian Tourist Office in Wallonia
more information about group
general information GTW
Dinant’s cable car launches tourists into town
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All holidays and cruises shown are fully bonded with ABTOT
The Group Experience & Travel Company
London Theatre Break Kinky Boots and Dreamgirls are leaving the West End, so now is your last chance to see these shows (or any other West End show) in style!
GETAWAY with Groups Direct with this London Theatre break . This GETAWAY includes an overnight stay in a 4* London hotel, with bed and breakfast and the best available seating locations at the show of your choice (overnight stays are available for all West End shows). Enjoy free time for dinner before seeing the performance, with the relief of no late night travelling after the curtain comes down. Make your way to your hotel from the theatre and bed down for a good night's sleep. The following morning, wake up for breakfast and have free time to explore London. The perfect GETAWAY!
Pricing Groups 20+ from just £99.00pp Includes: • • •
Overnight stay in a 4* Hotel Bed and breakfast Best seats available for a West End show
NEW BROCHURE The brand new Groups Direct brochure, ‘The EXPLORER’ Spring/Summer 2018, is out now! To receive your copy, please call the Groups Direct team on Freephone 0800 049 8309 or email reservations@ groupsdirect.co.uk.
P: 0800 049 8309 | W: www.groupsdirect.co.uk | E: reservations@groupsdirect.co.uk
The sweet smell of success A perfume workshop is a fun way to get together with friends while creating your own, unique fragrance, as Sue Parslow discovers
Get set for Christmas
2018
Discover the art of perfume blending
A
PERFUME WORKSHOP MAKES the ideal
21 concentrated fragrances. And, like the TV
quirky pre-Christmas get-together, but it’s
advert for the deodorising room spray, nose
not just for the girls – the guys can make manly
blindness soon struck from sniffing too hard.
fragrances or a scent for the home. Expert Sara
Little bags of coffee beans on the table offer
Hawkins runs these workshops in the Midlands,
an antidote – you hold a bag, inhale deeply a
and I joined her for an afternoon session in
couple of times, and you’re ready to go again.
the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon. Like the others around me, I hadn’t been
“Many people are surprised by how much they enjoy the process, and go home
sure what to expect, but we soon found
with a perfume that really suits them,”
ourselves immersed in a world of scent,
says Sara, a knowledgeable perfume stylist
discussing what we knew and liked.
and aromatherapist who’s been running
There’s more to creating a popular perfume
workshops for the Perfume Studio in
than you might think. That said, you won’t be
Birmingham, Stratford and the Cotswolds
blinded by science: Sara makes it interesting
for seven years. “It’s a great group activity
but light-hearted, and before long we were all
and flexible too – we can hold them in any
wafting card sticks dipped in one of each of
venue; even in someone’s home.”
GET ME THERE: ■ The
Perfume Studio operates
BREATHE DEEP... While some had gone with the idea of recreating their favourite designer perfume,
workshops throughout the UK.
Sara persuades everyone to start afresh
■ Groups
and identify the scents that appeal to
enjoy a generous discount. The
Gold experience normally retails at £39
Sara blends up th e unique fragrances
them, and then see what happens.
per person including a glass of fizz (or
Conversation buzzed as specific
a soft drink) – for a group, depending
scents sparked interest and prompted
on the size and venue, it could be as
memories and associations. However,
little as £24. In hotel venues, there’s an
from the start you discover that this
option to book afternoon tea and cake to
exercise is all about your own personal
enjoy once the workshop has finished.
preferences. It feels indulgent to focus on
■ Call
what really appeals and create something
Sara on 07775 558859, email
Half the fun is choosing a name for your new blend
sara.hawkins@theperfumestudio.com
that’s unique to you. And, when you’re
or visit theperfumestudio.com
done, Sara takes your choice of fragrant sticks and blends the liquids so you have a little bottle of perfume to take away.
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Spa & beauty days PIXABAY
Escape the Christmas frenzy this year
Get away...
Relax on a spa break with a festive twist this winter ■ Whittlebury
Hall in Northamptonshire
has a number of 2018 Christmas party packages on offer, with guests able to choose from the award-winning spa, the 36-hole championship golf course or a number of team-building activities on its 700-acre estate. Fine dining’s on offer, as well as entertainment. See whittleburyhall.co.uk ■ Surrounded
by landscaped gardens,
Eastwell Manor Champneys Hotel & Spa sits in acres of parkland in Ashford, Kent. The newest addition to the Champneys family, the hotel has 62 luxury bedrooms and suites, two restaurants and a spa (see eastwellmanor.co.uk). There are four other Champneys Spa Resorts based around the UK – at Forest Mere in Hampshire, Tring in Hertfordshire, Champneys Springs in Leicestershire and Henlow in Bedfordshire – as well as a number of city spas. For more on all the Christmas packages on offer, see champneys.com ■ Individuals
up the ances
and properties across
the QHotels luxury spa hotel portfolio have been recognised for their excellence in the 2018 Spa Awards, organised by hotel operators RBH. QHotels’ Mottram Hall Spa in Cheshire was named Spa of the Year, with the spa at The Midland in Manchester, and the spa at Slaley Hall in Northumberland, taking second and third places in the category. The Cambridge Belfry’s spa won Operational Spa of the Year. Find out more about about all of the Learn about the 21 scents used to create fragrance
spa treatments offered by QHotels at www.qhotels.co.uk
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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The north east
Blooming lovely
Discover why the north east is a haven of history and heritage
D
URHAM CATHEDRAL’S world-class
and peace was gradually restored. Also within the Open Treasure exhibition are the Treasures of St Cuthbert, on display in the
Glorious Durham Cathedral is home to the world-class Open Treasure exhibition
The Cathedral’s Armistice exhibit launches in September
monastic Great Kitchen, representing
THE COUNTY’S FINEST
some of the most significant surviving
Visit County Durham has announced a
Anglo-Saxon artefacts in the UK.
shortlist of local businesses hoping to become the county’s Tourism Superstar
Open Treasure exhibition experience
Pre-booked groups can enjoy discounted
will open a new temporary display, called
joint tickets for Open Treasure together with
2018. This year’s finalists are Leanne
Armistice: Living with the peace, from
a private guided tour of the Cathedral. The
Jeffrey of Kingslodge Inn in Durham;
September 25 through until early 2019.
Undercroft restaurant serves homemade
Angela Pickering of Tanfield Railway; John
refreshments and the shop, just off the
Fraser of Castle Coast Campers Limited;
ended World War One in Western Europe
medieval Cloister, stocks a range of books and
Emily Hope of Beamish, The Living
– although peace would not fully return
gifts. Email visits@durhamcathedral.co.uk, call
Museum of the North, and Gary Lintern
for many more months. Commemorating
0191 374 4050 or see durhamcathedral.co.uk
of Gary Lintern Photography. The winner
On November 11, 1918 an armistice
the 100th anniversary of this momentous event, the display explores what it meant
GARDENS GALORE
for the people of Durham and the north
Continue your history lesson at Belsay Hall,
east as war ended, soldiers came home
Castle and Gardens in Northumberland – one of
will be announced later this year – watch this space for details.
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Subscribe to Group Travel World magazine today for your chance to WIN!
WIN A FAMILY PASS TO TWYCROSS ZOO! We’ve teamed up with Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire to give five lucky readers the chance to win a family pass. As the only place in the UK where visitors can see all four types of great apes, Twycross Zoo has one of the largest primate collections in Europe and is leading the research into cardiovascular (heart) disease in gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees and bonobos. *T&Cs: Prize is only for use by the winner and a friend/family member only - not for resale
To enter, see below, before the closing date of Aug 3, 2018.
SUBSCRIBE IN 3 EASY STEPS
Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe ENTER ONLINE AT
www.grouptravelworld.com/competition Competition Twycross FP.indd 83
13/07/2018 13:50:48
The north east the most picturesque estates in the north east.
villa, the 30-acre gardens (listed as Grade I in
Expect a warm Hexham welcome
the Register of Gardens) are famed for their
Champions of the ‘community pub,’ Admiral
magnolias and rhododendrons.
Taverns’ County Hotel in Hexham is ideal for
Home to a unique mix of architecture, including a ruined medieval castle and Greek Revival
Pre-booked garden tours are available for
groups. “The hotel is a favourite with both
a small additional charge, Belsay’s Victorian
locals and tourists, run by dedicated licensee
Kitchen Tearoom seats 50, and there is an on
Fiona Beck,” says Steve Birkett, Business
site shop. Pre-booking is essential, call 01661
Development Manager at Admiral Taverns.
881636 or visit english-heritage.org.uk/belsay
“Sitting right on the north east tourist trail
TO BE A PILGRIM... Groups who cross the dramatic causeway at low tide to Holy Island follow the same
in the heart of Hexham it’s just a stone’s
visiting groups who love to get stuck
throw from the historic Hexham Abbey and
in with a host of activities, such as
Northumberland National Park.
shooting, hunting and fishing.” Find out
“The hotel opens its doors to large
more at countyhotelhexham.co.uk
path taken by 13 centuries of pilgrims to reach Lindisfarne Priory, one of the most important centres of early Christianity in
BE GUIDED BY THE BEST
NEETG guides have the expertise and
Anglo-Saxon England.
Want to explore the best Northumbria
flexibility to provide the most enjoyable,
has to offer? Look no further than the
interesting and informative visits, tailored
towering ‘Rainbow Arch’, while a museum
18 dedicated Blue Badge Tourist Guides
to your group’s needs.
houses interactive exhibits and relics.
who are members of North East England
MAIN PHOTO: PIXABAY
Groups can wander around the ruins and
Advance booking is advisable, call 01289 389200, email lindisfarne.priory
Tourist Guides (NEETG). Whether you and your group are in search
To find out more email enquiries@ northeastenglandtouristguides.co.uk or visit neetg.co.uk and
@english-heritage.org.uk or visit the website
of panoramic views, walking tours, museum
northeastenglandtouristguides.
english-heritage.org.uk/lindisfarnepriory
and gallery visits or a personalised itinerary,
co.uk/tour-guides GTW
PIXABAY
Lindisfarne Priory was one of the most important centres of early Christianity in England
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A UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking Norman architecture, the Shrine of St Cuthbert and the tomb of the Venerable Bede. - Group packages - Guided tours & behind the scenes talks - Open Treasure exhibition experience - Undercroft Restaurant & Cathedral Shop Booking essential to make the most of your visit. Durham Cathedral, Durham DH1 3EH Groups: 0191 374 4050 General: 0191 386 4266 visits@durhamcathedral.co.uk www.durhamcathedral.co.uk
HOUSE & GARDENS
k
ers
ing
r Featu
ord the B
r re Pa u t p l Scu
A ROBERT ADAM MASTERPIECE One of Scotland’s finest stately homes, this Robert Adam masterpiece is a ‘must-see’ with exquisite interiors, fine art, embroidery, china and furniture collections. Set in acres of tranquil parkland with lakeside and woodland walks, stunning gardens, outdoor art exhibitions, café, play area and holiday cottages.
For 2019 opening dates see website Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. House: 12.00pm to 5.00pm (last entry at 4.15pm) Gardens & Cafe: 11.00am to 5.00pm APPROX 15 MINS FROM MELROSE & KELSO. 1HR FROM EDINBURGH & BERWICK-UPON-TWEED.
www.mellerstain.com
MELLERSTAIN HOUSE, GORDON, SCOTTISH BORDERS TD3 6LG TEL: 01573 410225 | ENQUIRIES@MELLERSTAIN.COM Scottish Charity Number: SC011009
Christina Rossetti: Vision & Verse 13 November 2018 - 24 Februrary 2019
Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village Group Visits | Exhibitions | Tours | Artists’ Home & Studios | Tea Shop
wattsgallery.org.uk | Guildford, Surrey GU3 1DQ Group Travel World_July.indd 1 FP Template.indd 86
09/07/2018 17:46 11/07/2018 07:35
Buckinghamshire
History repeating
Discover the fascinating past of two of Buckinghamshire’s best-loved country houses
I
F YOU HAD power and riches, how would
and opened, in partnership with them, by
you use them? In the 18th century, the
the Stowe House Preservation Trust (an
powerful Temple-Grenville family chose
independent charity) in 2000. Today,
to create an idyllic landscape filled with
the team at Stowe work closely with their
temples – the most lavish of all being
partners at National Trust Stowe to
Stowe House, a temple so grand even
arrange group visits, exploring the house
Queen Victoria was taken aback.
and its gardens. To find out more call
Filled with rooms imitating ancient worlds and classical ruins, the house reflects the
And another thing... code breaking at Bletchley Park first took place in August 1938,
flamboyant character of its creators. But as
CAN YOU BREAK THE CODE?
a visit to this fascinating property goes to
Once the top secret home of the Second
mansion under the cover story that they were
prove, wealth and power don’t last forever.
World War code breakers, today you can
‘Captain Ridley’s shooting party’. They had
Excessive spending led to bankruptcy, and
uncover the past of the award-winning
an air of friends enjoying a relaxed weekend
extravagant parties and royal visits gave
Bletchley Park on a group tour. Special offers
together at a country house, but were actually
way to scandal, intrigue and eventually
are available for pre-booked groups of 12 or
members of MI6, and the Government Code
abandonment. The richest family in England
more, and Bletchley’s group bookings team
and Cypher School. Their job? To see whether
became the greatest debtors in the world...
are on hand to ensure your day runs smoothly,
Bletchley Park would work as a wartime
email groupbookings@bletchleypark.org.uk
location, safe from the risk of bombing in
or call 01908 272673.
London, for intelligence activity.
Fast forward a century or two and the house was saved by Stowe School in 1923
NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/ANDREW BUTLER
01280 818002 or see stowe.co.uk/house
Become a code breaker for the day at Bletchley
when a small group of people moved into the
GTW
The East Lake Pavilion at Stowe House WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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A WARM HIGHLAND WELCOME FOR GROUPS AT SKYE’S 5* HERITAGE ATTRACTION • FIVE ACRES OF FORMAL GARDENS & WOODLAND WALKS TO EXPLORE • AWARD WINNING BOAT TRIPS TO SEE THE LOCH DUNVEGAN SEAL COLONY • HOMEMADE FRESHLY PREPARED FOOD AT MACLEOD TABLES CAFE WHICH SEATS OVER 72 • THREE FABULOUS SHOPS WITH A RANGE OF HIGH QUALITY SCOTTISH GIFTS • DEDICATED COACH PARKING
FR 2h
RS U ed TO end ED omm ID rec U e G ll tim EEr dwe
OPEN: 1 APRIL - 15 OCTOBER 10AM - 5.30PM (LAST ENTRY 5PM) DUNVEGAN CASTLE, ISLE OF SKYE IV55 8WF T: +44 (0) 1470 521206 E: INFO@DUNVEGANCASTLE.COM WWW.DUNVEGANCASTLE.COM
The ancestral seat of the Sidney family since 1552, The stately home of Penshurst Place boasts an awe-inspiring medieval hall nearly seven centuries old, beautiful staterooms and 11 acres of charming Elizabethan gardens to explore. Groups welcome throughout the year
For more information and to book, call us on (+44) 01892 870 307 or visit www.penshurstplace.com
© Jigsaw Design & Publishing
Surrey
Explore Guildford Dive into the heart of Surrey to discover all this historic town has to offer Guildford Castle
T
HE VIBRANT MARKET town of Guildford, surrounded by the Surrey hills, is steeped
in heritage, and the best bit? Many sites are free to visit, including Guildford Museum, The Undercroft, Guildford House Gallery and the castle grounds. Or step back in time on a bookable walk with the Guildford Town Guides and let them take you on a 1,000year journey through the town’s past. Information on places to stay, as well as coach parking, comfort stops and where to eat and drink, can be found on the groups section of visitguildford.com, as well as ideas of stately homes, gardens, vineyards and brewery tours to team with a visit to Guildford town centre. Or, if you’d rather speak to someone, call the tourist office on 01483 444333.
WHAT’S ON AT WATTS GALLERY Right now, Watts Gallery in Compton, Surrey GUILDFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL
is playing host to the first exhibition ever to explore the life and imagination of James Henry Pullen, examining the creative escapism of an outsider artist. The exhibition runs until October 28. And the gallery is also hosting a Christina Rossetti exhibition from November 13 to March 17, 2019. See wattsgallery.org.uk GTW
GUILDFORD BOROUGH COUNCIL
Guildford is steeped in history
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A great
PIXABAY
craic
Fantastic people and fine food... the Dublin vibe is catching, says Mike Pickup
S
OUTHEND AIRPORT, RATED by
complements the lovely exhibits. Even the
ground floor there’s what it describes as a
Which? as best London Airport for four
staircase inside the Clare Street entrance
‘proper grocer’, an enticing display of fresh
consecutive years, was certainly a good
was painted to reflect the contemporaneous
fruit and vegetables, meat, coffees, just-
place to start my trip to Dublin. With hardly
Frederic William Burton exhibition, and
caught fish and more. Strolling round made
a person is sight, not even at the security
paintings on show in the gallery include
me feel hungry, so I went downstairs to the
check, it was in total contrast to the mayhem
works by Titian, Monet and Picasso.
wine bar to enjoy a great lunch of items from
of airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick. My base in Dublin was the Dylan, a lovely,
A totally different experience awaited me at the Little Dublin Museum, crammed
relaxed five-star boutique hotel within walking
with more modern artefacts – including
distance of the city’s attractions. After a
author Maeve Binchy’s typewriter and a
delicious dinner in the hotel and a good
room dedicated to the pop band U2.
night’s sleep I set off to explore on foot. The city has many green spaces, and
STREETS BROAD AND NARROW
Merrion Park is home to a well-known
After a morning’s walking it was time for
statue of Oscar Wilde, incongruously
lunch, and on the way I passed the statue of
reclining on a large rock. A few minutes later
Molly Malone who ‘wheeled her wheelbarrow
I arrived at the National Gallery of Ireland,
through streets broad and narrow’ – although
which has been the subject of extensive
the statue hints that perhaps it wasn’t just her
refurbishment, completed in June 2017.
cockles and mussels that made her famous!
The result is a light and airy gallery, which
I was heading for Fallon & Byrne. On the
Hassle-free Southend Airport
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Dublin
Exclusive GTW reader offer Group Travel World readers can claim a 10% discount at the five-star Dylan Hotel in Dublin. The offer applies for bookings of 20 rooms or more on stays of three nights or more. For details, contact the Director of Sales, Elaine O’Halloran (email eohalloran@ dylan.ie) and quote ‘Group Travel World’. For more on the hotel, see dylan.ie
The National Gallery of Ireland
Molly Malone must have drawn a crowd in her day!
Jet off to Dublin for a weekend of history, heritage and humour
Malahide Castle is one of Ireland’s oldest, with not one but five ghosts
the grocery, including cold meats, cheeses,
and the next day a short drive north of the
and cook’ course where guests are taken a
patés, oysters and smoked salmon, washed
city took me along the coast. This is a great
few miles off-shore and taught how to catch
down with excellent red and white wines.
area for golfers with St Anne’s, Royal Dublin
their fish, before returning to the kitchen to
and famous Portmarnock in close proximity.
prepare it and cook it as part of a three-course
EPIC, housed in the CHQ building, which tells
Green fees at St Anne’s and Royal Dublin start
meal. While there, Sarah and John provided
the story of Irish emigration. Over time some
at £54 and £67 respectively and £200 for
an informative, humorous and tantalising
ten million people left Ireland, largely driven
Portmarnock, but that does include lunch.
introduction to the courses on offer.
Suitably refreshed I walked across town to
out by starvation and religious intolerance.
I visited Howth and its castle, originating
It was a short drive to the pretty harbour
Outside the exhibition centre in the docklands
from 1177 and the home of the Gaisford-St
at Howth and the many yachts moored
area are statues of people heading for the
Lawrence family. One of the family dogs met
there. After a bracing walk along the harbour
ships that would hopefully take them to a
us inside the castle and was happy to have
I popped in to the Oar House for lunch. Fish
better life; a truly poignant piece of street art.
his tummy rubbed as long as anyone was
doesn’t come any fresher than this and the
After visiting the exhibition I joined
willing to oblige, giving the castle a lived-in
queues waiting to be seated were testament
the Vintage Tea Tour, with afternoon tea
family feel. The castle’s current appearance
to the great food on offer. Indeed, throughout
served on the upper deck of an old London
dates back to 1738 and it was renovated and
my visit, whether in the city or in smaller
Routemaster – a unique way to see Dublin.
extended in 1911 by Sir Edwin Lutyens.
towns, food was of consistently high quality.
After a brief tour I went down to the huge
ESCAPING THE CITY
Georgian kitchen to sample the Cookery
GHOSTLY CASTLES
The city has a lot to offer, but a few miles away
School. The classes on offer range in length
Another short drive took me to the pretty
there are attractions of a very different nature,
from one day to a week and include a ‘catch
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Dublin out along Dublin Bay and overlooked by the Grand Hotel. Just 15 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from the city centre, Malahide makes a great alternative centre for visitors to Dublin. Finds at nearby Paddy’s Hill indicate that the area was inhabited as long ago as 6,000BC, and tradition has it that St Patrick visited in 423AD. He was followed by the Vikings and the Danes – indeed, the last Danish King of Dublin retired to Malahide in 1171. Malahide Castle is one of Ireland’s oldest, and its links to the
Oscar Wilde now resides in Dublin’s Merrion Park
Talbot family date back to 1175. I enjoyed an entertaining guided tour of the castle, complete with stories of its five ghosts. After another lovely meal it was time for the short drive back to the airport and my flight home, with lasting memories of friendly people, good humour,
Get me there: ■ You
can fly to Dublin from London
from £29.99 per person one way (including
Southend Airport up to three times
taxes and charges). Book at flybe.com
daily through Stobart Air’s franchise
■ For
partnership with Flybe. Tickets start
ireland.com and visitdublin.com
more on Dublin and the local area visit
great hospitality and fine food.
The pretty harbour at Howth
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Look online for
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Group Leisure & Travel Show
Register now for free parking at the NEC. See grouptravelshow. com/register
Be inspired… This autumn’s Group Leisure & Travel Show will be full of ideas for group holidays and coach tours
T
HE GROUP LEISURE & TRAVEL SHOW
travel editor of the Independent. Also featured
– the major annual exhibition dedicated
is gardening expert and television presenter
exclusively to group travel and coach
Carol Klein and writer, actor and prolific
tourism – is fast approaching, with a wide
broadcaster Gyles Brandreth. All speakers
range of attractions, venues, destinations,
will be offering special advice on group visits
tour operators and service providers coming
and are available for Q&As.
together at the NEC Birmingham on October 11.
A coach area is also included that will feature several modern coaches, and coach
or call 01908 613323. Nominated Premier
operators who’d like to be included can
Club members can claim a free lunch and
still apply for details.
use the lounge facilities.
experts and networking with tour organisers
FREE PARKING AT THE NEC
atgrouptravelshow.com and by phoning the
to get the best deals, special offers and
Coach operators and GTOs registering
visitor hotline on 0345 130 7752.
services for group travel and coach tours.
in advance to visit the show online can
Visitors can look forward to a rewarding and enjoyable day, as the GLTS is the perfect place for gathering new ideas, talking to travel
Visitors arriving at the NEC before 11am are welcomed to the GLTS with a bacon butty breakfast, and there is a free seminar
Full details about the show can be obtained
Any companies, venues and destinations
claim free parking at the NEC by going to
interested in meeting top group travel
grouptravelshow.com/register
organisers and operators can call
A selection of free quality coach transport
Sharon Yandell on 01908 613323 for
programme throughout the day headlined by
is also available from various destinations, and
more information or email her at
Simon Calder, the well-known TV pundit and
visitors can book via grouptravelshow.com
sharon.y@yandellmedia.com
GTW
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Come fly with me… As Gatwick airport marks its 60th anniversary this summer, we delve into the archives to celebrate some of its most famous flyers ck’s The Queen opens Gatwi North Terminal in 1988
Pop star Midge Ure in 1988
A 1982 visit by Pope John Paul I
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Happy 60th Princess Diana dons the headphones on a visit in the late ’80s
GATWICK
THROUGH THE DECADES
Major milestones in the airport’s history:
George Michae l jets into the UK at the he Wham days in ight of his 1985
1958
Following a £7.8 million renovation, Gatwick is officially opened by the Queen. It’s the first airport in the world to have a direct railway link.
1964
Gatwick extends its runway by 370m to 2,500m.
1973
The third extension of Gatwick’s runway is completed, allowing for non-stop flights to the US west coast.
1984
Gatwick opens its new air traffic control tower, the tallest in the UK at the time.
1985
British Airways begins commercial Concorde flights.
1988
Gatwick’s £200m North Terminal is opened by the Queen.
2000
Both of the airport’s terminals are extended at a cost of £60m.
2005
Gatwick’s Pier 6 is built and connected to the airport by the largest air passenger bridge in the world.
2009
The airport’s new owners, Global Infrastructure Partners, announce a £2.5 billion investment programme.
2017
Gatwick’s three largest airlines move terminals, with easyJet consolidating its operations in the North Terminal, British Airways moving its operation to the South Terminal and Virgin Atlantic shifting to the North Terminal.
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UKinbound news
Active England Tours encourage you to enjoy the journey as much as the destination
Up close Discover the many benefits of an Active England Tour, as you ditch the car or coach in favour of exploring the UK under your own steam
O
N OUR ACTIVE tours we walk and cycle from
Rather than sitting on buses
backs carried the wealth of
and staring through windows, we
medieval England. It was wealthy
gardens to castles, travelling
choose bike trails and footpaths.
wool merchants who funded
through fields and along winding
When we visit Shakespeare’s
the churches, manor houses
lanes right into the heart of
Stratford, for instance, we cycle
and market squares – all built
the British countryside. Our
along a greenway, over rivers and
in beautiful golden Cotswold
guests really get to experience
through fields. When travelling
stone, which gives this Area of
Britain at its best, travelling
down into Devon and Cornwall,
Outstanding Natural Beauty its
like a local along back lanes.
we don’t pitch up at the beach
distinctive postcard-perfect look.
in a van, but ride along tracks,
FIND OUT MORE… Based in Oxford, call
UKinbound is the only travel trade association to focus solely on the interests of the UK’s inbound tourism sector. Representing a diverse membership of over 390 businesses, it engages with Government and the media to highlight the importance of inbound tourism to the economy, and help its members to grow their businesses. Visit www.ukinbound.org or email info@ukinbound.org for more information, and follow UKinbound on Twitter: @UKinbound
walk up sand dunes and head
BY BIKE OR BY FOOT
out over cliff tops, immersing our
We believe there is no better
finding the back door into Hidcote
guests in their surroundings.
way to appreciate the charm of
Gardens, to obtaining cycling
our villages, the beauty of our
permissions in Blenheim Palace’s
Guests gain a real appreciation
01865 513007 to find
of our stunning towns, nestled
vast palaces and castles, or the
2,000-acre estate, we go the
out more about Active
among the hills and surrounded
quaintness of our winding country
extra mile to focus on making our
England Tours or visit www.
by countryside. The Cotswolds in
lanes, without first looking to
Active England Tours, by bike or
activeenglandtours.com
particular is an area dependant
the landscapes in which they’re
on foot, an enjoyable and intimate
on its landscape. The sheep in
tucked away.
experience, relishing the journey
the fields and the wool off their
Wherever we travel, from
as much as the destination.
GTW
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GTW Awards
Drum roll please…
Our GTW Awards celebrate the attractions and companies that go the extra mile to make groups feel welcome, so meet this month’s worthy winners One of HF Holidays’ many hotels – the Dolserau in Snowdonia
BEST HOLIDAY PROVIDER
To nominate a hotel, attraction, restaurant or holiday company for our awards, email helen.milbank@ grouptravelworld.com
BEST ATTRACTION
Hever Castle
HF Holidays The UK’s only member-owned cooperative organisation that provides outdoor holidays, HF Holidays is a specialist in walking and activity breaks across the UK and abroad. From guided walking holidays in the Lakes to a wildlife adventure in Ecuador and Galapagos,
Experience 700 years of history at this Kent attraction, which was once the childhood
tournaments to guided tours – and turn
they’re experts at making sure all ages,
home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry
to page 36 for what’s on at Hever over
and all fitness levels, are well catered for.
VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. Events and
the festive period.
■ Find
tours run throughout the year, from jousting
■ Find
out more at hfholidays.co.uk
out more at hevercastle.co.uk
BEST ATTRACTION
Historic Royal Palaces Historic Royal Palaces brings six world-class attractions to life – Hampton Court Palace (shown here), the Tower of London, Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace and Hillsborough Castle. An independent charity, HRP aims to help everyone explore the story of
VISIT BRITAIN
how monarchs and people have shaped society, in some of the greatest palaces ever built. ■ Find
out more at hrp.org.uk
GTW
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GET THE NEXT 3 ISSUES FOR JUST £3 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD EDITOR
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11/05/2018 12:58
Your travel questions answered by experts The 15th century Beauchamp Chapel at St Marys PIXABAY
GROUP TRAVEL
When in Dubai... Q A group of 16 of us are heading
GROUP TRAVEL
Hidden Warwick
to Dubai this autumn and I’m wary of unwittingly falling foul of the local rules.
dress, which, if abused, may well result in harsh penalties. As a general rule, bear in mind the
Any advice?
following when you’re in Dubai:
Q My history group’s heading to Warwick.
Georgie Mansfield, Essex
■ Alcoholic
Joan Towser, Somerset
A Stephen Davis, CMO at Kiwi.com, says:
hotels and clubs, but it’s a punishable
Wherever you’re travelling, Dubai included, it’s
influence of alcohol, in public.
A GTW editor Helen Milbank says:
always wise to Google the activities you plan
■ Women
to take part in before you go, read expert travel
areas like shopping malls. Swimming attire
The team at St Mary’s Church and the Lord
guides – as the locals normally provide dos
should be worn only on beaches or at
Leycester Hospital in Warwick have created a
and don’ts – and visit the UK government
swimming pools. Cross-dressing is illegal.
day-long tour of both sites.
website
■ Public
to check foreign travel advice in relation to local
and you can be arrested for kissing in public.
laws and customs.
■ Photography
Any ideas for a more quirky group tour?
Visit the 15th century Beauchamp Chapel at St Mary’s, where Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester is laid to rest with his wife and child, as well as the
The United Arab Emirates, for example,
drinks are served in licensed
offence to drink, or to be under the should dress modestly in public
displays of affection are frowned upon, of certain government
buildings and military installations isn’t
Norman Crypt, which contains one of only two
have very strict local laws and customs
allowed. You could also be detained
surviving ducking stools in England. For a small
regarding alcohol, public touching and
for two months for plane spotting.
charge you can also climb to the top of the tower. Combine St Mary’s history with a visit to the nearby Lord Leycester Hospital. Robert Dudley came close to marrying Queen Elizabeth 1, and at her behest to get ‘wounded warriors off the streets’ he acquired the medieval buildings built by the Guilds of Warwick in 1348 and founded the Lord Leycester Hospital. Several centuries later, the Lord Leycester is still a place of refuge for men who have fought for or served their country. Known as the Brethren, these soldiers live at the Lord
GROUP TRAVEL
Chukkas away!
Q I’ve heard it’s possible to learn to
play polo in London. Is this true? Eve Procter, Surrey
A Travel writer Angela Youngman says: Yes! London City’s new Polo Experience
Leycester and can be seen in their Elizabethan
teaches you the basic rules of the game, how
robes welcoming and giving talks to visitors
to use a polo mallet and sit in the saddle,
among the half-timbered medieval buildings
before you try on all the gear and have a go for
and the 500-year-old walled gardens.
yourself – on a real life polo pony! Bring eight
Combined tours of St Mary’s and the hospital
Enjoy London City’s new Polo Experience
or more friends and you, as chief organiser, will
are available Tuesday to Saturday. For further
get in half price (take 10 people and you’ll get
2012 Olympic Games area, so rain needn’t
information see lordleycester.com and
in free). You’ll be riding in a fully covered arena,
stop play. The experience costs £145 each,
stmaryswarwick.org.uk
five miles from Canary Wharf and within the
see poloexperiences.com
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Your Q&As
PIXABAY
Escape the winter gloom on a cruise to Mauritius CRUISE HOLIDAYS
All at sea for a winter cruise Q We’re planning a winter cruise for
and a number of indigenous birds. Madagascar
to the Arctic Circle. Arctic cruises are fast
extended family and would like to explore
has six world heritage sites to visit, and is the
emerging as a new favourite destination, and
off the beaten track. Any ideas?
perfect spot for picturesque hikes.
have much to offer. The mountainous scenery
Jeff Porter, Cumbria
A Gavin Murray, Head of Expedition
AFRICA
and blue waters make it a great place for photography enthusiasts, with native wildlife
When it comes to escaping the grey skies of
including whales, polar bears and walrus. But
Sales at Exclusive Expeditions
Britain, you won’t find a better contrast than
if you fancy the ultimate traditional Christmas,
(exclusiveexpeditions.co.uk) says:
Africa. Indeed, December is the perfect time
head for Lapland, where special festivities take
If you fancy getting away this winter and
to visit a number of African countries.
place every year, complete with reindeer, huge
avoiding the greyness, here are our top destinations for expedition cruises:
THE INDIAN OCEAN The Indian Ocean is home to the tropical paradise islands everybody dreams of, and
Those looking to enjoy culture, nightlife and entertainment should head for Cape Town;
banquets and sleigh rides.
while explorers will revel in the unique sights
THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
of the Kalahari Desert in Botswana, which
Lovers of animals, nature and the outdoors
bursts to life at this time of year.
will never find a destination more ideal than
The Serengeti is another destination that’s
the famous Galapagos Islands. The home
enjoys year-round sunshine. Some areas
perfect for adventurous types, with modest
of Darwin’s theory of evolution, getting an
experience their best, and driest, weather in
temperatures and plenty to see.
up close and personal look at the islands’
what are the winter months over here in the
unique biodiversity is truly a once in a lifetime
UK, making it the perfect place to escape from
THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
the British gloom. Mauritius alone has more
Of course, sunny beaches and deserts aren’t
your way through, you will never run out of
than 50 uninhabited islands to explore, as
for everyone, and if you’re looking to escape
things to see. October and November mark
well as the Black River Gorges National Park,
to a place that encapsulates the winter feeling
the tail end of the region’s dry season, so
which is home to over 300 species of plant
we so rarely see in the UK, head far up north
Galapagos makes the perfect winter escape.
experience, and with so many islands to make
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Your Q&As
Proudly sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society
Don’t miss the RHS Glow events this winter
Melissa Hackney is Groups
Sales & Marketing Manager at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
RHS
MEET OUR EXPERT
RHS Gardens and groups: the latest tips and practical advice from the RHS. Got a gardening question you’d like answered? Email groups@rhs.org.uk
Q I’m planning our programme for the
special events to look out for, such as flower
next year. Are there any special offers at
shows, craft fairs and sculpture tours, which
this summer – could you give me some tips
the RHS Gardens?
give an added interest, as well as a range of
on drought resistant plants?
Jane Rigby, Leeds
added extras including garden tours and talks.
John Robson, Milton Keynes
I’m not sure how far you’re planning ahead,
Q We’ve had so much dry, hot weather
A Absolutely. Group organisers who make
but you could book a visit to one garden to see
a repeat booking to an RHS Garden within
the autumn colour, for example, and then a
and careful watering, a range
the calendar year will save 50% on their
second visit to see one of the Glow events
of plants can tolerate dry
second visit during late autumn and winter.
at a different garden, which you could combine
conditions once they’re well
with Christmas shopping and a variety of
established. Plants such as
group catering options.
lavender, jasmine, hebe and
Our gardens have a huge amount to offer groups throughout the seasons, from spring bulbs to autumn colour. We’re continually
Groups will also receive a £5 retail
A With well-prepared soil
euphorbia can all work well
voucher per person to spend in one of the
in dry conditions, and there
visits are ever the same. There are also lots of
RHS Shops (minimum spend applies).
are some great eryngium
EL
(including sea holly and globe thistles) that add colour and texture.
Q What rose would you recommend to
a lovely scent. Alternatively, Easlea’s Golden
climb up a tree in a sunny corner of our
Rambler is a vigorous rambling rose with
visit for inspiration. It’s located in one of the
garden? Laura Jackson, Exeter
fragrant, double, bright yellow flowers that
driest parts of the country, near Chelmsford,
A The ‘Betty Sherriff’ rose might work well
turn creamy-yellow in the summer.
and has a Dry Garden with lots of great ideas
for this – it’s a pretty blush-pink coloured rose
time to enjoy the Rose Festival at Rosemoor,
that can grow up to around 10m, and has
which runs until Sunday July 22. During
RHS Rosemoor has one of the UK’s largest collections of roses
RHS/LEE BE
adding new elements to make sure no two
Visit RHS G ar Hyde Hall fo den r inspiration
If you’re a fan of roses, you’ve still just got
RHS Garden Hyde Hall is the best place to
you could then adapt to your own garden.
the festival, as well as the stunning gardens,
Experience the ultimate gardening day
visitors can enjoy guided tours, expert
out with the RHS at its four gardens
advice, a craft market and a rose trail.
– RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey; RHS
All of our gardens have great collections.
Garden Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire;
The Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden at Wisley
RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex and
is amazing. Winding paths allow you to
RHS Garden Rosemoor in North Devon.
explore choice roses, alongside an array
See rhs.org.uk/groups or email
of herbaceous plants, bulbs, perennials,
groups@rhs.org.uk
GTW
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evergreen shrubs and topiary. 104 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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HAVE A s CHRISTMAS 1 November - 22 December
Experience Christmas in the 1940s and enjoy a festive lunch in the Mansion. Subject to availability, pre-booking required Book now, call 01908 272673 Bletchleypark.org.uk
The beautiful
south
M
For GTW’s Jonathan Taylor the group-friendly Babbacombe Hotel proves the idea base for a stroll along memory lane in the English Riviera
ANY HOTELS IN the UK accept
many years earlier. The Babbacombe Hotel
CHERISH THE VIEW
groups, and some do it very well, with
sits in a prime position at the top of the
The first thing that strikes you on arrival
staff on hand specifically to make sure
cliffs, close to the famous Babbacombe
at the hotel is the spectacular view across
groups are well catered for, from enquiries
Cliff Railway, which, since 1926, has linked
Babbacombe Downs and Lyme Bay.
to booking, through to the stay itself.
the Babbacombe Downs to Oddicombe
Cue Torbay’s Babbacombe Hotel, which
Bay by a funicular railway running up
very friendly staff told me the hotel has regular
focuses primarily on groups – although it
and down a 720ft (220m) track.
repeat bookings from groups and coach
happily accommodates individuals too. The occasion was created to treat a
The hotel is also in a prime position for exploring the whole of the Devon
wonderful aunt of mine, now in her 96th
and Cornwall peninsular, as most
year, to a seaside trip to places she’d enjoyed
attractions are within day-trip range.
There’s parking for two coaches and the
operators, not just in the UK but also from mainland Europe. An hour after we arrived, a full coach parked up; it had come from Germany
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Tried & tested A room with a view...
Find out more at thebabbacombe hotel.co.uk
The hotel overlooks Torbay’s stunning coastline
with a very lively group enjoying a wellorganised trip through Britain’s West
The ideal spot for a morning coffee
arrivals. This hotel is serious about groups. The hotel pricing is keen and The
a bit tired. Having said that, any niggles we had were immediately responded to and
Country. The German group organisers
Babbacombe is one of a collection of hotels in
dealt with by the staff, which is a lot more than
were familiar with the Babbacombe staff
the area offering different quality/pricing levels.
can be said for some hotels charging much
and, later on, everyone sat down to dinner with plenty of German favourite options. Speaking to some of the senior staff at the
WHERE VALUE COUNTS
higher prices. Our three days and two nights passed
My impression was that this is approximately
very quickly as there was so much to see
Babbacombe, it was clear they go out of their
a three-star hotel. The beds were comfortable
and do locally. If you have a group looking
way to provide everything they can to make
and the rooms provided all the basics, but the
for standard accommodation and board
their clients’ schedules work, and will alter
owner is right to be carrying out a programme
at very good prices in the Devon area, The
meal times to suit early departures or late
of constant refurbishment as some areas were
Babbacombe could well fit your bill. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Hart and soul It’s been the home of an exiled king, but today Hartwell House & Spa has the relaxing vibe of a lovingly preserved country house that’s the ideal weekend getaway
Historic House Hotels group (see below for more on their pioneering work), and retains many of its Jacobean features, with the later addition of Georgian facades and garden buildings by eminent architects of the time. Staying a night is an experience in itself, as the gates to the estate open and you’re transported back to another era, a statue of Frederick Prince of Wales – rescued from an overgrown part of the garden and now restored – proudly sitting on a plinth to greet you.
Words: Helen Milbank
R
be proud, the house is part of the luxury
Nothing’s too much trouble for the hotel’s ARELY DOES A hotel wow you with
centuries-long association with the world’s
hugely knowledgeable team of staff, who’ll
its past, but Hartwell House & Spa is
movers and shakers. Louis XVIII, exiled King of
happily take you on a brief tour to reveal
a real cut above in the history stakes. First
France, lived here for five years from 1809,
the building’s quirkier side. (We learned
mentioned in the Domesday Book as belonging
and more recently the house was owned by
the ornate carvings on the staircase are
to William the Conqueror’s son William
the Cook family of Thomas Cook fame.
thought to be caricatures of past staff and
Peverel, that alone would be impressive
Now expertly preserved, and in such
residents; the hotel was used by American
enough. But that was just the start of its
fantastic shape even Louis XVIII would
soldiers as a base in the Second World War,
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Tried & tested Stay in a sumptuous royal suite
Find out more about this Buckinghamshire hotel at hartwell-house .com
Afternoon tea, Hartwell-style
Hartwell was home to exiled French royals in the 1800s
The stylish pool in the hotel’s spa
and the eyes of the portrait in the drawing
world-class dishes in the hotel’s restaurant,
I can vouch for the fantastic treatments on
room follow you wherever you go...).
which has been awarded three rosettes by
offer too. I tried an Icelandic BIOEFFECT facial
the AA. Its selection of wines have also been
(£85 for super-smooth skin and the most
recognised by the AA in its Notable Wine List.
relaxing hour you’ll ever get to indulge in).
The hotel has 30 rooms and suites in the main house, all decorated in a style that reflects the property’s impressive
You can then burn off all that fantastic
history, with a further 16 rooms in
fare at the hotel’s spa, with its swimming
AND ANOTHER THING...
Hartwell Court, a former coach house.
pool, steam room, sauna, gym and treatment
Guests enter by the Great Hall, which was
rooms. There’s also a café and bar, all-
redesigned by James Gibbs in the mid-1700s,
weather tennis courts and a croquet lawn.
beyond which is an oak-panelled room that
Dine on site and head chef Daniel Richardson and his staff are on hand to create
served as a chapel during Louis XVIII’s stay. It was here, while he was at prayer, that
Keeping history alive
the conservation of neglected country
word reached him of his reinstatement as
Hartwell House & Spa is one of three
houses, turning them into high class hotels,
King of France
spectacular properties, which are all part
while preserving their history and country
of the upmarket group of Historic House
house ambience. Hartwell was restored
■ Hartwell
Hotels. The other two are Middlethorpe Hall
in the late 1980s and early ’90s, and, in
outside Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire,
& Spa in York (see www.middlethorpe.com)
September 2008, the company donated all
40 miles north west of London. Overnight
and Bodysgallen Hall & Spa in Llandudno
its interests in its three wonderful properties
stays start from £150, and there are special
(see www.bodysgallen.com).
to the National Trust, with all profits
offers and events throughout the year.
benefiting the houses and the charity.
Find out more at hartwell-house.com
Historic House Hotels are pioneers in
House & Spa is two miles
or call 01296 747444. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Over to you
We want to hear from you!
Write, Facebook, Tweet or email helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com Alan opened Woburn Abbey’s new exhibition, which runs until the end of October
Caption competition Last issue we printed this shot of our subscriptions manager Emma Parkes looking smoking hot (literally), and asked for your comedy captions. Thanks to all who entered – we knew you were a witty bunch! And here are just some of our favourites...
“I’ve got my E Y E on that cake!” Peter Truman, via email
“That was my bun!” Linda McDerry, via email Our winner is Tom Munt from Cornwall who put: “I’m feeling
a little green...”
STAR LETTER
Repton’s Woburn It was great to see the lovely Alan Titchmarsh
exhibition is on to see the gardens’ history
in the last issue of Group Travel World
and designs for myself.
(issue 186). I knew little of Humphry Repton,
Joan Olafsson, Oxfordshire
happy to feature the lovely Titchmarsh,
Always fancied a Ferrari...?
shaped the gardens we can still see today,
Joan, and for more on the Abbey and
Here’s me and my son William at PortAventura
and also had an influence on people like Alan.
its summer-long exhibition see
World’s Ferrari Land in Spain. We loved it!
I’ll be visiting the Abbey while its Repton
woburnabbey.co.uk/Repton
Jonathan Smith, Cambridgeshire
who designed Woburn Abbey’s gardens in the late 1700s, before reading your article,
A WORD FROM THE ED: We’re always
and it was so interesting to discover how he
110 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Your shout
MINI BOOK REVIEW
Valletta: A Personal City Guide Edited by Martin Bugelli
This Morning Live
Price: £14 Contact: tinyurl.com/ybu4x72t
I can fully recommend a day out at This Morning
A WORD FROM THE ED: Fashion,
Compiled by a team of eight expert tourist
Live at Birmingham’s NEC. I went with my mum
shopping, big name presenters: what
guides, if you’re heading to the Maltese city
back in May and really enjoyed it. We saw
a line-up they had this year! For
of Valletta any time soon, this is the ultimate
Rylan Clark-Neal (pictured here) as well as
more details of next year’s event see
travelling companion. Newly published to
Ruth Langsford, there was loads to do and
thismorninglive.co.uk – and talking
celebrate Valletta’s coveted position (together
the atmosphere was great.
of the NEC, see page 94 for more on
with the Dutch city Leeuwarden), as the
Clare Smith, via email
this year’s GLTS on October 11.
2018 European Capital of Culture, the book helps visitors understand the history, attractions and culture of both this capital city
We love... Are you a budding photographer?
and the island as a whole. ■ Do
you have a favourite book, DVD or
...This shot of Dave the rescue dog who’s
travel product you’d like to rave about? Email
loving his walks around Thetford Forest on the
Helen with the details at the usual address.
Norfolk/Suffolk border. He’s owned by GTW reader Oliver Hutton. And talking of dogs, have you found our mascot Harvey yet?
We’re looking for your favourite holiday
If you’re new to the
snaps to feature in a new section of our
find Harvey game
magazine. Send them to Helen at the
see page 112 – and
usual address, with a brief description of
email Helen when
where they were taken, and your work
you spot him to be
could appear in print!
entered in our regular prize draw.
Keep in touch... We want to hear from you! Write to: Group Travel World magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Email: helen.milbank@ grouptravelworld.com Advertising query? Call Julie Cousins on 01733 293242
Mountain high
at the reference as when I go it’s always
Good to see the Isle of Man featured in your
to watch the Isle of Man TT and that’s
magazine (issue 186). It’s certainly true that
anything but relaxed!
it does have a relaxed vibe, but I had to smile
Alan Hardy, Belfast
Subscription query? Emma Parkes is here to help. Call her on 01733 293487
PIXABAY
Need attraction & show tickets? Call Harley on 01733 293249
The Isle of Man: TT biker just out of shot...
Visit www.grouptravelworld.com follow Facebook.com/ grouptravelworld and see us on Twitter @GTWMagazine GTW
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Puzzle time
Test your grey matter – answers on page 113
Try our quizzes and brain teasers every month
PICTURE QUIZ
PIXABAY
Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But which British Prime Minister was born here?
You can now enjoy our puzzles online too! See the new & improved grouptravelworld. com
W RD
SEARCH Can you find the following words in the grid? All are popular seaside towns:
TORBAY SKEGNESS PENZANCE MARGATE BRIGHTON HUNSTANTON RAMSGATE BLACKPOOL EXETER
S S E N G E K S I E X L O O P K C A L B E C N O T H G I R B I C P E N Z A N C E G O D D N A O J J M R A M S G A T E U Y O F Q Y E X E T E R E T A G R A M I C K G T O R B A Y G E Q H U N S T A N T O N
Where’s Harvey? Find where the lovely Harvey’s hidden in this issue and you could win a prize. To enter, email helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com before September 1, 2018 or head online to grouptravelworld.com/competition
112 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Puzzles
Crossword
ACROSS
7 Broad-brimmed straw hat (8) 8 Tiered shelves (4) 9 Forced high notes (8) 10 Helps (4) 11 Midday nap (6) 14 Polar top layer (3,3) 15 Chatter (3) 16 Third sign of the zodiac (6) 18 Flexible pipework (6) 20 Scheme (4) 21 Kind of soup (8) 24 Autocratic ruler (4) 25 Exceptionally tense (8)
DOWN
1 Roster (4) 2 Mistreats (6) 3 Baby’s bottle feature (4) 4 Driver (8) 5 Lubricant (6) 6 Polluted precipitation (4,4) 12 Put on a pedestal (8) 13 Excited (8) 17 Discount (6) 19 Explosions (6) 22 Secret look (4) 23 Way out (4)
QUICK QUIZ 2
3
Q Can you name this boat lift,
Q These otters live at Woburn
Safari Park. But what’s the term
married to which British actress?
is now moored in which historic
Clyde Canal with the Union Canal?
used to describe a male otter?
(Clue, she’s now a Dame.)
Scottish city?
which connects the Forth and
4
MARC MILLAR
JOHAN PERSSON
1
Q Kenneth Branagh used to be
Q The Royal Yacht Britannia
Where’s Harvey? In issue 186, Harvey was piloting a plane at Brooklands Museum (on page 70). What a clever dog... Picture quiz answer: Sir Winston Churchill Film & TV quiz: 1. The Falkirk Wheel; 2. Male otters are known as boars; 3. Dame Emma Thompson; 4. Edinburgh Electric. (Down) 1 Rota, 2 Abuses, 3 Teat, 4 Motorist, 5 Grease, 6 Acid rain, 12 Idealize, 13 Agitated, 17 Ignore, 19 Blasts, 22 Peek, 23 Exit. Crossword solution: (Across) 7 Sombrero, 8 Rack, 9 Falsetto, 10 Aids, 11 Siesta, 14 Ice cap, 15 Gas, 16 Gemini, 18 Tubing, 20 Plan, 21 Alphabet, 24 Czar, 25
Answers WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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And finally...
Lara loves to set sail from Palma de Mallorca
Feel the wind in your sails LARA PICTET
D
“
For Swiss actress and producer Lara Pictet, home’s split between the UK, US and Europe – and adventure is very much the spice of life
IVE IN HEAD first, take risks and have
so I decided to take a walk. I kept on walking
to visit. But, once I feel comfortable
no regrets about taking a chance. Live
for about two hours and got lost, so headed
enough, I love to get into the grind of a
every minute as if it may be my last.” That’s
for the nearest road. A Rastafarian picked me
place. You learn a lot more from visiting the
Lara’s mantra, resulting in a determination
up and took me to the nearest hotel, where
local and traditional sites – that’s where
to take advantage of every encounter and
I sat at the bar and told the bartender I was
the real fun and excitement begins.
experience possible. Born in Geneva, she
lost and needed a phone to call my father.
attended RADA and now splits her time
“All I can remember is sitting at the
MAIN PHOTO: PIXABAY; AS TOLD TO ANGELA YOUNGMAN
between the UK, USA and Europe.
“I went for a spa weekend in Henleyon-Thames not long ago and fell in love
bar, chatting while I played with some
with the town; it reminded me a lot of
“My most memorable travel experience
crayons and seeing my dad walk in with
Switzerland. It has a very cozy, vintage
was while filming Orloj in 2007,” says Lara.
the police. I can definitely say they kept
sort of old school French look to it, so I
“It was my first professional job on location.
me at close proximity from then on!
felt quite at home. Having gone to Millfield
We travelled to Prague and a van drove us to
“Before I travel to any unknown place,
School in Somerset, I also went to Bath a
the city of Brno. We shot for a month in the
I make a detailed plan of all the well-known
few times as a student, which I still love.
oldest castle in Moravia – Veveri. Although the
tourist attractions and cultural monuments
“In Europe my favourite places are
weather conditions left us freezing in our costumes it was all worth it. “My ‘independent’ personality was present even at six years old. I would often go and make friends with the chef in restaurants and watch them. We were in Jamaica and I was bored,
Naples, Rome and Palma de
I love Palma de Mallorca… It’s a beautiful city and you can take a boat to Formentera and swim in the clearest, most turquoise water
Mallorca in Spain, where we have a finca (rural estate). It’s a beautiful resort city and you can take a boat to Formentera and swim in the clearest, most turquoise water.”
GTW
114 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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CLIMB THE TOWER 181 STEPS TO THE BEST VIEWS OVER COVENTRY
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK* Most people are familiar with the events of November 14th 1940, but there is way more to us than just the Ruins. Take the chance to find out more. Email: visits@coventrycathedral.org.uk Tel: +44 (0)24 7652 1234 Priory Street, Coventry, CV1 5FB *
May depend on weather or bell-ringing sessions. Please check prior to making a special trip. The Cathedral Tower Climb costs an additional £4. Not suitable for children under the age of 8.
WWW.COVENTRYCATHEDRAL.ORG.UK
Santa Selected dates in November and December A magical Christmas treat for the whole family!
www.santasafari.com
Tel: 01299 402114 Email: info@wmsp.co.uk West Midland Safari Park, Spring Grove, Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1LF FP Template.indd 116
11/07/2018 07:36