February 2018
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TV’S NICHOLAS OWEN:
‘I drive a train on Brighton seafront’ 001 GTW Feb 18 Cover.indd 1
SCAN HERE for cheaper tickets!
24/01/2018 09:58
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FP Template.indd 2
ABTA No. V4744
06/02/2018 07:35
Welcome
A word from the editor I
F YOU BOOK one thing this month, make it a guided tour. Over the past few weeks I’ve
Our behind-the-scenes theme continues on page 16 with a guide to the best locations for
trekked round breweries, cities, stud farms...
film, music and soap opera lovers – plus we
you name it and I’ve either seen it, stroked
round up London’s top guided tours on page
it or knocked it back. And I’d forgotten what
76. And the first person to email me a photo
a luxury it is to have an expert on hand to
of their group on tour gets a special prize
take you behind the scenes. A big thank you
and the honour of appearing on our brand
goes to Ivan Annibal for his fantastic Hidden
new readers’ letters page (see page 110).
Lincoln tour (read more about it on
Whatever you get up to this month, we
page 62), and the team at Melbourn
can help you save money too – just head
Bros’ All Saints Brewery in Stamford,
to grouptraveloffers.com for cut-price
Lincolnshire – a hidden gem for real
tickets to hundreds of attractions.
ale fans. Remember to ask about the
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
Until next month...
E. helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com
poor man who fell into a vat of hops back in the 1830s and grab
■ See grouptraveloffers.com for cut-price attraction tickets ■ Plus visit our new jobs site traveljobsworld.com
Designer: David Hiles E: david.hiles@d15design.com
Editor
a free nostalgic beer mat (see
Contributors: Darren Calpin, George Cooper, Naomi MacKay, Louise Murgatroyd, Sue Parslow, Mike Pickup, Stuart Render and Angela Youngman
www.allsaintsbrewery.co.uk).
ADVERTISING
Advertising Manager: Julie Cousins T: 01733 293242 E: julie.cousins@grouptravelworld.com
Page 32
Client Manager: Paige Fraser T: 01733 293245 E: paige.fraser@grouptravelworld.com Sales Executive: Jade Milnthorpe T: 01733 293489 E: jade.milnthorpe@grouptravelworld.com SUBSCRIPTIONS/MARKETING
Marketing Subscriptions Executive: Emma Parkes T: 01733 293487 E: emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Marketing Executive: Emily Dougall T: 01733 293483 E: emily.dougall@grouptravelworld.com
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GROUP TRAVEL OFFERS
Trade account managers: 0800 024 8070 MANAGEMENT PIXABA Y
General Operations Manager: Harley Denham T: 01733 293249 E: harley.denham@grouptravelworld.com Publisher: Jonathan Taylor E: jonathan.taylor@grouptravelworld.com
MAIN COVER IMAGE: VISIT ENGLAND/ CHATSWORTH HOUSE TRUST
© 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. 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
This month’s cover star is Chatsworth House in Derbyshire
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.
COACH COA OACH TOURISM T
ASSOCIA ASSOCIATION
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
003 GTW Feb 18 Welcome.indd 3
3
24/01/2018 10:08
PIXABAY
8 Share Nicholas Owen’s passion for railways
ALAN KENNY
52 Head into the wild this summer
6 Explore Rockingham Castle
64 Take a film tour of Paris
32 Discover the UK’s best stately homes & gardens
46 Cruise to St Petersburg
4 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Contents 6 Let’s go...
Head to Northamptonshire’s Rockingham Castle
8 15 minutes with...
TV newsreader Nicholas Owen
10 News
The latest from the world of travel
67 Theatre news & reviews The latest from theatre land
98 Industry insider
News from the Coach Tourism Association
102 London & Partners
Explore Stratford and Walthamstow
103 UKinbound
Discover all Kent has to offer in 2018
104 NEW! Expert Q&A section Your travel questions answered
110 NEW! Readers’ letters
You share your news, views and photos
112 NEW! Puzzle pages
Test your grey matter in our new section
114 And finally...
We meet Mary McKenna of Tour America
Features
Special offer! Get discounted tickets to top attractions at grouptraveloffers.com – and buy now, pay later
16 What lies beneath...
Go behind the scenes on a tour like no other
24 Isle be yours
Explore the wonderful Isle of Wight this summer
26 The great escape
Great value ferry travel, wherever you’re heading
32 The green, green grass
Your ultimate guide to the UK’s stately homes
42 Heading north?
Days out ideas in the north west and north east
46 Absolutely Fabergé
Explore Russia’s ‘Venice of the North’
52 Into the wild
The UK’s best zoos and animal attractions
58 Bon voyage
World-class motoring and transport museums
62 What did the Romans do for us? When it comes to Lincoln, the answer‘s plenty
64 Lights, camera, action
Take a cinematic walking tour of Paris
76 The inside story
Our pick of London’s top guided tours
78 Five of the best...
...days out ideas for families and groups
87 Group Travel World Awards Meet this month’s award winners
90 Time to play ball
Indulge your sporting ambitions on a short break
94 A Castle fit for a Queen
Discover Windsor Castle’s fascinating history
96 GTW news
62 Uncover Lincoln’s Roman past
We enjoy London show Five Guys Named Moe, and a candle-lit tour of Peterborough Cathedral
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
004-005 GTW Feb 18 Contents.indd 5
5
24/01/2018 10:28
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
Rockingham Castle Photo: Alan Kenny, alankennyphotography.com
Under a mean and moody sky, striking Rockingham Castle cuts quite an imposing figure. Built on the instruction of William the Conqueror (with magnificent views across the Welland Valley this stronghold was crucial in helping William subdue his new kingdom), it’s been the family home of the Watson family for 450 years, and prior to their ownership was held by the crown. Very few homes have been continuously occupied for nearly 1,000 years, and today visitors can soak up the atmosphere and history of this fascinating building that’s been a royalist stronghold and a seat of government – with the Great Council of Rockingham held here in 1095. Over the many centuries Richard the Lion Heart’s been a visitor, as has Charles Dickens, who often performed in his own plays in the Long Gallery. And you can find out more about the castle’s rich past on a guided tour, which can be arranged for pre-booked groups by appointment (minimum group size is 20). Events are also held throughout the year, including the popular Rockingham International Horse Trials, from 18-20 May, 2018. ■ Find
out more at www.rockinghamcastle.com
6 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Let’s go...
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
006-007 GTW Feb 18 Lets Go.indd 7
7
24/01/2018 11:03
15 minutes with...
Nicholas Owen When the TV presenter isn’t reading the news on the BBC he’s happiest travelling by train... GROUP LEISURE & TRAVEL SHOW 2017
W
HEN I APPEARED on Celebrity Mastermind back in 2005, my
I’ve always wanted to be a train driver, and
My 94-year-old mum, who lives in Brighton,
my dream came true when I became involved
was stopped one day by her friend who’d
specialist subject was the railways of south
with the Volk’s Electric Railway some years
seen me driving the train. She said: “So I see
east England. I remember two of the questions
back. First opened in 1883 by inventor
your son is having to drive trains on Brighton
I answered correctly: What was London’s first
Magnus Volk, it runs for a mile along Brighton
seafront now. Times must be tough!”
mainline train terminal? (The answer’s London
seafront, and is the world’s oldest operating
Bridge.) And what does VEP stand for? (The
electric railway. It’s currently undergoing a
and the answer is the South Coast Railway line
answer’s Vestibule Electro Pneumatic, in case
£1.5 million revamp thanks to a National
from London to Brighton. It passes over the
you were wondering.) That gives you an idea
Lottery grant. And the most exciting part?
Ouse Valley Viaduct, which carries the railway
of just how geeky I am about train travel...
They’ve trained me to become a driver!
over the River Ouse in Sussex. The viaduct’s
I’m often asked what is my favourite railway,
made of 11 million bricks, and going over it Nicholas can often be spotted driving a train on the Volk’s Electric Railway
in the train is the most fantastic experience. Travelling through the Canadian Rockies by train is an experience not to be missed. Many of the trains have these amazing observation carriages that offer panoramic views. Though my favourite foreign country to explore by rail is Switzerland. It’s breathtaking. I love the UK’s network of preserved railway lines. I’m involved with the Bluebell Railway in East Sussex, which runs between East Grinstead and Sheffield Park. I was even their fireman for a time! It offers a fantastic experience for groups, with special events all through the year. And it’s not alone, as the UK is rich in fantastic heritage railways. I love the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, which cuts through some spectacular scenery, the East Lancashire Railway... the list is endless. I’m also a huge fan of steam excursions. I’ve actually been fortunate enough to sit in the driver’s seat at 70mph on the Flying Scotsman (exhilarating and terrifying in equal measures!). I live in Reigate and a steam train comes past at least once a week. It’s just wonderful to see.
GTW
Share Nicholas’ passion... ■ The
Volk’s Electric Railway:
volkselectricrailway.co.uk ■ The
Bluebell Railway:
www.bluebell-railway.co.uk ■ The
North Yorkshire Moors
Railway: www.nymr.co.uk VISIT BRITAIN
■ The
East Lancashire Railway:
www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
8 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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24/01/2018 10:17
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QP Template.indd 9
06/02/2018 07:58
News
HIDDEN TREASURES
Open all hours Northamptonshire’s magnificent Boughton
Boughton offers a host of tour packages
Get your FREE Group Travel Offers brochure for cheaper tickets to a range of UK attractions. Email harley@grouptravel offers.com
of the Buccleuch Art Collection on display.
House (pictured here) is now even more
for groups scheduling trips in and out of the
However, we have offerings tailored specifically
accessible for groups, with extended open
official opening season. From a comprehensive
with our group tour visitors in mind, which take
hours for 2018 and the added bonus that pre-
tour taking in the house’s highlights – including
in as many of the highlights as possible in a day.
arranged group tours can visit all year round.
its five beautifully preserved 17th century
“The House is a real time capsule of
State Rooms – to a ground floor program,
the art and culture in the 17th and 18th
is set to throw open its doors for the Easter
culminating in the Great Hall under Louis
centuries, so we can also create bespoke tour
and late May bank holidays, before re-opening
Cheron’s masterpiece The Marriage of Hercules
offerings for particular interest groups.”
throughout the month of August. Its gardens
and Hebe, visitors can enjoy an array of
and Grade 1 designed landscape will open in
celebrated textiles, armoury and objet d’art.
century stable block and enjoy the gift
“With such a wealth of history here at
shop. Prices start from £250 for out-
The historic home of the Duke of Buccleuch
conjunction with the house, as well as on two
Groups can enjoy a meal in the 18th
special dates – February 25 and October 21,
Boughton, there are so many stories to
of-season group tours, and full details of
when a portion of the proceeds from entrance
discover,” says Charles Lister, Property Manager
individual ticket prices can be found at
tickets will be donated to charity through the
at Boughton House. “It would take many, many
www.boughtonhouse.co.uk/plan-a-
National Gardens Scheme.
visits to fully appreciate the countless treasures
visit/opening-times-and-prices/
RHS Garden Harlow Carr
Win a VIP day out at an RHS Garden Across the UK the RHS Gardens offer a fantastic day out for groups and families, with four dotted around Britain: ■ RHS
Garden Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire
■ RHS
Garden Rosemoor in Devon
■ RHS
Garden Hyde Hall in Essex
■ RHS
Garden Wisley in Surrey
We’re giving away two entry tickets to the garden of your choice, including a free guided tour and cream tea for two. To enter, see www.grouptravelworld.com – and turn RHS/LEE BEEL
to page 106 for our special gardening Q&A section, in conjunction with the experts at the RHS. 10 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
010-014 GTW Feb 18 News.indd 10
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Ragley Hall Park & Gardens, Warwickshire, B49 5NJ events@ragley.co.uk 01789 762090 www.ragley.co.uk
Family home of the Marquess & Marchioness of Hertford. Group Tours available all year round with optional Cream Teas, Lunches and Head Ga Gardener talks.
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*Terms apply. Savings off 7 night holidays, if group numbers drop below 10 your price may change. Details correct at the time of going to print (12.17). Non-member associate fee of £10pp may apply. Offers and discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, are subject to availability and can be withdrawn at anytime. Visit our website for full terms & conditions. † European and Worldwide groups savings start at 8 or more.
QP Template.indd 11
09/02/2018 12:21
News
Take the ultimate ale trail at Temple Newsam House MINE’S A PINT
VISIT BRITAIN
Brooklands Museum is hosting the Group Travel Forum South
For more on Brooklands Museum see page 58
To your good health…
Join us at Brooklands
A new exhibition is set to bring cheer to
nutritious alternative, and was enjoyed
Group Travel World magazine
ale lovers. ‘Beer: A History of Brewing and
across all social scales. It was even used
is excited to announce that it has
Drinking’ will run at Temple Newsam House in
to treat a range of ailments and diseases,
joined forces with Steve Reed Tourism to
Leeds from March 24 to October 27, 2018.
from jaundice to ‘The King’s Evil’ (a skin
support its 2018 line-up of Group Travel
disease). Indeed, at Temple Newsam in
Forums as its media partner.
At a time when drinking water was often contaminated, beer offered a safe and
In Bloom
1749, Ann Scarburgh’s apothecary
Join us at the Group Travel Forum South
prescribed her ‘ingredients for six gallons
at Brooklands Museum in Surrey on April 30,
of beer yr ladyships’.
and the Group Buyer Forum North and
The exhibition looks at the significance of beer during the 18th century and reveals
Midlands at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire on October 22.
It has just been announced that a new
aspects of life on Temple Newsam Estate
four-day festival, Bloom! will be staged
through the eyes of the staff and aristocrats
directly in touch with sellers, and are free for
from July 5-8. It will celebrate horticulture
who lived, worked, brewed and drank here.
GTOs to attend, though places are subject
and flowers in York, marking the 250th
New stories have been uncovered from
The Group Travel Forums put real buyers
to eligibility and availability. The Hogsback
anniversary next year of The Ancient
the estate archives, including that of female
Hotel near Guildford will host buyers the night
Society of York Florists. There will be events
brewer Elizabeth Pease, who provided ale
before the Group Travel Forum South event.
and installations across the city.
for the estate for over 30 years. Find out
To register your interest, call 01420 560288
more at leeds.gov.uk/beerexhibition
or visit www.stevereedtourism.co.uk
A hidden gem
Durham’s Crook Hall and Gardens
In addition to running a series of Group Travel Forums in association with Group Travel World magazine (see above), Steve Reed Tourism is set to work with one of the north east of England’s top attractions. Crook Hall and Gardens, on the banks of the River Wear in the heart of the ancient city of Durham, plans a very special welcome to groups this summer in the form of its Crook Hall Group Exclusive. The 13th century Grade 1 listed medieval hall has been owned by Maggie and Keith Bell since 1995. “We’ve improved what we offer
Keith. “The attraction is very much a hidden
to groups over recent years – for example we
gem in what is one of England’s most
email steve@stevereedtourism.co.uk, and
To find out more about the Group Exclusive,
now have the superb Garden Gate Café,” says
spectacular and beautiful cities.”
turn to page 44 for more on the north east.
12 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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24/01/2018 11:09
NOMINEE FOR
BEST UK ATTRACTION GROUP LEISURE AWARDS
WINNER OF THE
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IMMER AND A H SIVE THEATRE EART P UMPING SCAR
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TAKE AN INTERACTIVE JOURNEY THROUGH LONDONS SPOOKY HISTORY
TheLondonBridgeExperience.com The London Bridge Experience, 2-4 Tooley Street, London Bridge, London SE1 2SY FREE audio guides available
FP Template.indd 13
06/02/2018 09:17
News
Discover Hever’s hidden secrets Kent’s fantastic Hever Castle is throwing
study (with its secret panel), the boys’
open some of the doors not usually open
bedrooms created by William, Lord Astor’s
to the public as part of its new tour.
bathroom, which is accessed via a secret
and is for adults only as it’s more in depth,
panel, and Lady Irene Astor’s pink bathroom.
is an hour-and-a-half, starting at 10am.
Up to 15 people at a time can take part in the Hidden Hever tour, where they’ll get to see
Turn to page 32 for more stately homes & gardens to visit
William Waldorf Astor’s
Take to the water
Guests will also be treated to stories
history of Hever Castle over the centuries. The tour, which costs £45 per person
Following their tour visitors are welcome
and anecdotes relating to the rooms
to stay in the gardens until closing. See
visited, and discover more about the social
hevercastle.co.uk/groups
Just do it! There’s a huge opportunity for activity-based
University of the West of England (UWE).
One of Shrewsbury’s most popular
companies – including those offering sports-
Demand for personalised leisure
group-friendly attractions, the Sabrina
related trips, city breaks and high-adrenaline
experiences is far greater than supply,
Boat, is celebrating a four-fold increase
experiences – to expand their ranges to meet
according to the report, which also suggests
in the number of coaches and groups
demand for personalised experiences, according
travellers are placing greater significance
taking to the River Severn. The company
to a new report commissioned by membership
on experiences than destinations. Find
says it welcomed around 230 coaches
organisation Boundless, and conducted by the
out more at www.boundless.co.uk
in 2017, compared to just over 50 during 2014.
including Shrewsbury Market Hall and
Foodies rejoice...
the British Ironwork Centre,” says
The award-winning Exeter
Mark Hooper of Sabrina Boat.
Festival of South West
“We’ve now introduced packages with other attractions in the town,
“We’ve also published a new
Food and Drink returns for
coaches and group packages brochure,
its 15th consecutive year on
and this has given tour planners new
the May Day Bank Holiday, from
ideas for itineraries that include a
Saturday 5 to Monday 7 May, 2018.
45-minute cruise with us around
The event is held in the grounds of
WIN TICKETS!
We have two pairs of tickets to give away for one day of the Exeter Festival. To enter email helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com before March 1, 2018. and producers, as well as workshops and live music. Three evening music
the Severn loop in Shrewsbury.”
Exeter Castle Courtyard and Northernhay
festivals also run over the weekend,
■ For
Gardens and promises a long weekend
with live music. Find out more at www.
of foodie indulgence, with celebrity chefs
exeterfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk
tickets see grouptraveloffers.com
GTW
14 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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08/02/2018 21:00
VISITBRITAIN/DISCOVER NORTHERN IRELAND
County Antrim’s Giant Causeway is close to Stanocum – more familiar to Game of Thrones fans as Kingsroad and The Dark Hedges
16 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Days out
beneath... What lies
From the dramatic, other-worldly Northern Ireland coastline to the hills of Emmerdale, go behind the scenes on a tour like no other
F
EW BRITISH SHOWS have captivated
the home of the Stark family during series
fame and offer location tours. Winterfell Tours,
a worldwide audience quite like
one. You could also stop off at Portstewart
based at Castle Ward, offers the chance to try
Game of Thrones, with fans caught up in
Strand in County Londonderry, a dune-
your hand at archery at Winterfell, instructed
the drama of this brutal power struggle
covered coastal area used in series five.
by ‘Jon Snow’ himself (you can even get
between seven fictional kingdoms.
Then head for the beech-lined road near
decked out in Game of Thrones-type cloaks
Stanocum in County Antrim (for Game
and swords). Immerse yourself further by
Martin, much of the series is filmed in
of Throne fans it will be more familiar as
meeting the two dogs who play Direwolves in
Northern Ireland. The Georgian farmyard at
Kingsroad and The Dark Hedges of Armoy).
the show, and staying the night in a glamping
Based on the novels of George R R
the National Trust’s Castle Ward in County Down, for instance, became Winterfell,
A number of companies have taken advantage of Northern Ireland’s new-found
pod in the forest of Winterfell. Find out more at www.gameofthrones-winterfelltours.com
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Days out STEP INTO THE DRAMA We welcome them into our living rooms three or four times a week, and now you can get closer to the real thing on a set tour of your favourite soap. The Emmerdale Studio Experience is a much-loved visitor attraction at the former ITV studios at Burley Road, Leeds, where interior scenes for the soap were filmed until 2011. Go behind the scenes on this fully guided tour to see set reconstructions, props and costumes, as well as learn the secrets behind some of the stunts and special effects used on the show. You’ll also discover how the writing team come up with stories and how they’re brought to life.
Nip behind one of Britain’s best-known bars, The Woolpack
Visitors can get hands-on too, learning how to light a set, film a scene and edit the footage. An outside walking tour
See where the Emmerdale magic happens
of the working village set is also available. To plan your trip, head to the website www.emmerdalestudioexperience.co.uk
Snow? In July?!
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION...
Catherine Cookson’s novels in the 1980s
Eagle eyed viewers may well have spotted
and 90s, and they’re still re-run regularly on
Anyone for cricket?
Beamish in County Durham on the very last
satellite channels. Look out for Pockerley
Surrey’s Kia Oval has played host to
episode of Downton Abbey on Christmas Day
Old Hall, The Town, Pit Village and Rowley
many a game of cricket, from the birth of
2015. Around 320 million visitors around
Station – all have starring roles.
The Ashes in 1882 through to England’s
the world saw the sweet shop and garage
In addition to the local news broadcasts
– covered in snow, despite the fact it was
by ITV Tyne Tees and BBC North East and
filmed in mid-July.
Cumbria, around 300 film crews have
In October 2016, the museum also
historic Ashes win in the 2005 series. Tours here are relatively new, with groups led through some of
been welcomed to Beamish over
made several appearances in Dark Angel,
the years, from huge dramas
a gritty three-part ITV drama about serial
to documentary makers,
murderess Mary Ann Cotton. Beamish was
children’s programmes and
a perfect setting for the dramatisation of
live outside broadcasts. Perennial children’s
the ground’s key spots,
Book your tickets for The Oval tour at grouptraveloffers. com
including the museum and the famous Long Room. You’ll also learn about the roles of the groundsmen and
To be, or not to be...
favourite Blue Peter has
Take a behind the scenes tour and
occasions, and lots of other
discover the hidden treasures of the
children’s programmes have
Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-
followed suit. Documentaries by the
upon-Avon, Warwickshire. Tours run on
dozen have also filmed at Beamish,
selected dates throughout the year. For
and there have been film crews from
the special events planned for 2018 at the
more information, visit www.rsc.org.uk
as far afield as Germany, the USA,
attraction, coined ‘The Living Museum of
Australia, Japan and Korea.
the North’ – at www.beamish.org.uk
visited the museum on five
visit the Corinthian Roof Terrace.
See this fantastic open air museum for yourself – and discover
18 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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THE MASSED BANDS OF HER MAJESTY’S ROYAL MARINES
Mountbatten Festival of Music
With over 150 musicians these concerts are renowned for displaying the outstanding versatility of some of the world’s finest military musicians. The world famous Royal Marines Corps of Drums will feature in the Naval Sunset Ceremony which once witnessed in the fantastic surroundings of the Royal Albert Hall is surely never to be forgotten. Friday 9 March 2018 at 7.30pm Saturday 10 March 2018 at 2.00pm and 7.30pm
Tickets from £12 FP FP Template.indd Template.indd 91 19
Group discount available
For ticket availability contact:
Box Office 0845 401 5018 www.royalalberthall.com
18/12/2017 06/02/2018 14:39 09:26
Days out
Loseley Park starred in The Crown
A REGAL AFFAIR
Hall, and the filming of Earl Mountbatten
Loseley Park in Surrey is a historic Tudor
on the telephone in the Drawing Room.
manor house that’s been welcoming visitors
Groups can enjoy guided tours of the house
Explore the Beeb Take a peek behind the scenes on a BBC
for more than 500 years, and is currently a hit
as well as specialist tours of the gardens.
Tour at MediaCityUK in Manchester – the
with groups keen to see some of the filming
A combined visit with Watts Gallery Artists’
BBC’s home in the north of England. Visit
locations for Netflix drama The Crown, which
Village can be arranged. Groups can also
www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours
chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth II over
visit Loseley when the house is closed in
the past 70 years.
December for a guided tour of the ground
Loseley Park doubled as Broadlands in
floor of the house and Christmas lunch in
a shooting scene on the hill overlooking
the festively decorated 17th century tithe
the house; for a dinner party in the Great
barn. See www.loseleypark.co.uk
Fawkes, Dick Turpin and carriers of the
It’s been more than a year since The York
plague. And audience participation
Dungeon reopened, following a facelift
takes place in nearly every show, so
after the floods of December 2015, soon
don’t expect to sit back and watch...
reclaiming its place as one of the must-see attractions in York.
Tours start every 15 minutes, and can
ANNA KUNST PHOTOGRAPHY
Be afraid...
PARTY LIKE IT’S THE ’60S
hold a maximum of 24 people. For larger
Due to popular demand, London’s Swinging
groups, they can simply be split into two
’60s Experience Tours have returned to the
portraying a different period of York’s
or more groups. The bigger the better,
Royal Albert Hall. These fun, immersive tours
2,000-year history, expect live actors,
as the audience’s reaction is a key part
take groups back to Swinging ’60s London,
immersive sets and some surprising,
of a lot of shows. One minute you’ll be
starting with a one-hour tour of historic music
yet often scary, special effects that
Viking slaves, the next you’ll be a baying
locations on a vintage double decker London
pull visitors into the dark side of the
mob at the executioner’s chopping block!
bus, against a backdrop of ’60s music and
city’s past. You’ll meet Vikings, Guy
See www.thedungeons.com/york
live commentary.
With its series of 10 live shows, each
The tour – which travels along the Kings Road in Chelsea, passing many famous locations, including the Royal Court Hotel in Sloane Square (once the London base of The Beatles) – takes in the Royal Albert Hall, where passengers are greeted by a friendly, knowledgeable guide for a one-hour tour. This takes in many areas that are usually off-limits to the public, such as the stunning auditorium that welcomed The Beatles and The Rolling Stones on the same night. For more details and a full list of dates, visit www.60sbus.london
GTW
20 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
016-020 GTW Feb 18 Behind the scenes.indd 20
24/01/2018 12:05
Discover northern England’s dramatic history with a group visit to Newcastle’s imposing Norman fortress. n Dedicated Groups Coordinator n Guided tours available upon request
www.newcastlecastle.co.uk T: 0191 230 6300 E: info@newcastlecastle.co.uk
GROUP EXPERIENCES n Bespoke packages for a minimum of 40 persons. Options include: n Be greeted by a knight on horseback and/or medieval foot soldiers n A guided tour led by costumed guides n Demos of medieval food and music n Try on armour, handle weapons and watch knights do battle
GROUP RATES Discounted rates available for groups of over 10 persons. (Must be booked in advance)
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
QP Template.indd 21
08/02/2018 20:49
NEW AND EXCLUSIVE OFFER!
Let us take you places & save you £££s!
nds ie r f & y il m a F bscribe can now suvel World a to Group Tr r 60% off & save ove d theatre n attraction aacross tickets the UK We’re the UK’s favourite for… ✓ Expert travel advice ✓ Day trip ideas for families & groups ✓ Holiday inspiration at home & abroad ✓ Discounts for families at grouptraveloffers.com
• 6 ISSUES FOR JUST £15 (Save 10%) • 12 ISSUES FOR JUST £25 (Save 25%) (Cover price £2.75)
SUBSCRIBE IN 3 EASY STEPS Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/css/ FP Template.indd 69
19/12/2017 12:17
AMSTERDAM MINI CRUISE Coach travel offer Book now with DFDS for a fantastic coach offer on our Amsterdam mini cruise. Sailing from Newcastle, your customers can enjoy 2 nights onboard, as well as a buffet breakfast in both directions. Your coach and driver will go free with groups of 20+ passengers, too.
OFFER EXTENDED
You and your customers can discover Holland, with up to 6 hours ashore, before the return crossing home.
FROM
ÂŁ
34pp 2 NIGHTS
To book or find out more call 0871 521 1535 or email uk.groups@dfds.com.
UK-EUROPE DFDS.CO.UK/COACHES Prices subject to availability. Prices based on 2 sharing inside cabin. Available on selected dates from 5 Jan until 22 Mar 2018 and again from 1 Oct until 18 Dec 2018. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Calls cost 13p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge. Credit card charges apply. T&Cs apply.
FP Template.indd 23
06/02/2018 07:38
Isle of Wight
Isle be yours… A favourite with the royals in years gone by, discover the Isle of Wight’s very regal history
F
OLLOWING THE SUCCESS of the movie Victoria & Abdul, any trip to the Isle
Hit the trail Follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria and visit 12 locations across the island with links to her, thanks to Victoria’s Island Trail; then track the island’s famous authors with the Literary Heroes Trail, which reveals the locations and destinations that have
Victoria’s sitting room and the Durbar Room.
inspired literary greats. Both trails are
Another new addition at the house is the
available using an interactive map, or
of Wight must include a visit to Osborne
restored Lower Terrace, where Queen Victoria
a leaflet from the Isle of Wight tourist
in East Cowes, which was used as a location
once read, wrote and painted, which opened to
information, so you can visit one or two
for the film.
the public for the first time last summer.
of the attractions during a day trip – or
Highlights include its now-restored centrepiece,
all of them over a few days. Find out
Room is the Queen’s Hindustani diary, written
the Andromeda fountain, and an elaborate
more at www.visitisleofwight.co.uk
at Osborne under the tutelage of her Indian
alcove where the Queen once sat, decorated
servant Abdul Karim. Their intriguing relationship
with seashells from her private beach.
Now on display in the Indian-inspired Durbar
was brought to life in the film, starring Dame
Pre-book an exclusive tour with an expert
Call 01983 200022, email osborne.house@
Judi Dench and Ali Fazal, and fans will recognise
guide to get an intimate glimpse into the private
english-heritage.org.uk or visit the website
some of the backdrops, including Queen
life of the Victorian royal family at Osborne.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/osborne
GTW
Osborne House was Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s holiday hideaway
24 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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24/01/2018 12:10
13-15 JULY 2018
RAF FAIRFORD - SWINDON THE WORLD’S GREATEST AIRSHOW GROUP DISCOUNTS GROUP COACH TICKET 20+ ADMISSION TICKET HOLDERS ARRIVING IN ONE COACH £40.00
GROUP INDIVIDUAL TICKET 20+ ADMISSION TICKET HOLDERS ARRIVING IN INDIVIDUAL VEHICLES £45.00
BENEFITS
SAVE UP TO £15.00 ON EACH ADMISSION TICKET UNDER 18s GO FREE WHEN ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT ADMISSION TICKET HOLDER FREE ON SITE PARKING DESIGNATED FAST TRACK ENTRANCE GATE TO SPEED UP YOUR ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE* FREE ENTRY FOR COACH DRIVER* FREE LISTING ON AIRTATTOO.COM WEBSITE* *APPLIES TO GROUP COACH TICKETS ONLY
JOIN US FOR THE INTERNATIONAL CELEBRATION OF THE RAF’S CENTENARY
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND BOOKINGS VISIT: WWW.AIRTATTOO.COM/AIRSHOW/COACH-OPERATORS AIRTATTOO.COM 2018 Air Tattoo Advert FP Template.indd 25GTW A4.indd 1
02/11/2017 10:47:03 06/02/2018 07:39
VISIT BRITAIN/VISIT GUERNSEY
The great escape South coast by morning, Channel Islands by lunch... wherever you’re heading by ferry this summer, there are some great deals to be had Words: Sue Parslow
F
ANCY AN AFTERNOON on the beach,
there’s the added bonus of duty free onboard
EXPLORE THE SCOTTISH ISLES
Channel Isles style, just a few hours after
shopping. See www.condorferries.co.uk
At the opposite end of the UK, Northlink
leaving port on the south coast? Condor
For a closer isle, explore all the magnificent
ferries sail to the Scottish Islands with a
Ferries connects the UK to Guernsey, Jersey
Isle of Wight has to offer thanks to Wightlink,
range of services for groups. Sailings can be
and France, with its fast ferries allowing
which operates eight ferries on three routes
combined in a package deal – options include
plenty of time to explore pastures new.
across the Solent from Hampshire to the
a mini cruise to Shetland and Orkney, with
Isle of Wight.
guided tours of key landmarks as well as a
There’s an up-to 20 per cent discount on all services for 10 or more people on
Discounts are available for groups of 10 or
visit to Highland Park, the UK’s most northerly
foot. And a day trip to Guernsey’s easy to
more foot passengers, and 15 or more cars
organise from Poole. The sailing offers views
can benefit from discounted rates on certain
distillery. See www.northlinkferries.co.uk
of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast as well as Guernsey
sailings to and from the island. Added to
destinations across the west coast of
and its neighbouring islands. With up to
this, coaches can travel on two ferry routes:
Scotland. A dedicated travel trade department
six hours ashore, you’ll have the chance to
Portsmouth to Fishbourne and Lymington
will help you plan and book group tours if
explore Guernsey’s capital, St Peter Port, and
to Yarmouth. See www.wightlink.co.uk
there’s more than 12 of you, and there are
CalMac ferries sail to a number of
26 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Ferry travel
a range of hospitality options. See www.calmac. co.uk/on-board/groups
Shannon Ferries link Kerry with County Clare in Ireland, operating two roll-on, roll-off ferries 364 days a year, taking travellers and their vehicles on a 20-minute journey across the Shannon estuary. See www.shannon ferries.com
Condor Ferries connects the south coast with the Channel Isles – including Guernsey’s capital, St Peter Port
HEADING TO THE CONTINENT? routes and the most frequent tourist service to the Continent and across the Irish Sea. The company sails to Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Ireland, and each ship has
The iconic Mersey
quiet lounges, lively bars, duty-paid shopping, a commission-free bureau de change as well as a choice of coffee shops and restaurants. See www.poferries.com/en/groups
a discount. See www.stenaline.co.uk DFDS has a wide choice of 30
arrival, buffet breakfast both mornings, buffet dinner and wine on one crossing,
ferry routes into countries including
and return coach transfers to Amsterdam.
operates services to Ireland and Holland.
France, Belgium, Germany, Scandinavia,
Prices start from £94 per person, see
Groups can take advantage of discounted
Lithuania and Poland, and prides itself
www.dfdsseaways.co.uk/party
travel and meals, as well as free wifi and
on offering world-class facilities.
Also port-hopping is Stena Line, which
films to watch. Offering day trips and
Fun-loving groups of 10 or more can
FERRY ’CROSS THE MERSEY
hotel stays too, Stena Line also offers the
enjoy an exclusive Party at Sea package,
For every kind of gathering, great days out
flexibility to arrive at one port and leave
with two nights on board and up to five
in Liverpool often begin alongside the River
from another. Plus, groups travelling by
hours exploring Amsterdam. Included in
Mersey. And with so much to see and do on
car or motorbike (a minimum of five) get
the package is a glass of champagne upon
the water, Mersey Ferries are a fantastic port FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
026-028 GTW Feb 18 Ferry Travel.indd 27
VISIT ENGLAND/MARK MCNULTY
P&O Ferries boasts the biggest choice of
27
24/01/2018 12:21
Ferry travel
of call, with special group rates, incentives and
discounted rates for groups, with savings on
a variety of cruises.
fares as well as meals. Look out too for offers
to Ireland, Yulefest Kilkenny has something
Take a trip on the famous Ferry ’cross the
If you’re planning a Christmas shopping trip
on mini two-night cruises. Thanks to special
to see every day in December 2018, and is
Mersey, with a 50-minute River Explorer
group rates, for example, you can pick up a
just 90 minutes’ drive from either Rosslare
Cruise offering stunning views of Liverpool’s
two-night getaway to the historic port of
or Dublin ferry ports. There’s an indoor
iconic skyline. The trip has the bonus of
St Malo from just £34 per person return.
ice rink at Cillin Hill and an illuminated
free entry into the U-boat Story, where
Alternatively, sample two days and nights
Christmas Garden at Butler House. Visit
groups can gain an insight into life on board
of relaxation on a cruise to Santander in
a genuine Second World War German
northern Spain. For groups of 10 or more
U-boat at Woodside Ferry Terminal.
travelling on one ticket prices start from
in mid-November with its Christmas
Alternatively, head off on a Manchester
just £58 per person return. See www.
light switch-on and offers a host of
Ship Canal Cruise. You’ll travel the 35-miles
brittany-ferries.co.uk/group-travel
events up to Christmas. Waterford City
of canal, discovering how the waterway
yulefestkilkenny.ie for the full programme. Waterford City’s Winterval festival starts
is about 90 minutes’ drive from the
shaped the city of Manchester and the North
THE LUCK OF THE IRISH
West of England. Enjoy the architectural and
Irish Ferries provide services between the UK
natural sights as the boat passes through
and Ireland, and run the only fast ferry on the
locks and bridges that have remained largely
Irish Sea. There are special arrangements for
unchanged since their construction over
groups travelling by coach, especially on the
Did you know?
100 years ago. See merseyferries.co.uk
line’s flagship Ulysses. These include group
This September, travellers between
meals, as well as support from trained staff for
Holyhead and Dublin will be able to board
older and less mobile passengers.
Irish Ferries’ brand new 144 million euro
IN SEARCH OF THE SUN Award-winning Brittany ferries sail from
Irish Ferries offer discounts for groups on
port of Rosslare. See winterval.ie
cruise ferry named W.B. Yeats, which will
Portsmouth, Poole and Plymouth to holiday
ferry travel and accommodation in Ireland,
be the largest and most luxurious ferry
regions in France and Spain, with both direct
with prices from £15 per person (one way).
to operate on the Irish Sea.
ferry travel and mini cruises on offer. There are
Find out more at www.IrishFerries.com
GTW
28 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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duty free cruise to
GUERNSEY from just
ÂŁ18
*
pp
adult foot return
Add a day trip to Guernsey to your Dorset tour with big discounts for groups of 20 or more. Arrive in as little as 3 hours from Poole, with savings of up to 40% on UK High Street prices on big brands in our onboard Duty Free shop including wines, spirits, tobacco, perfumes and cosmetics, gadgets and confectionary. Shopping in Guernsey is tax free, with a mixture of high street brands and independent boutiques. And if you want to go further or stay longer, you can also enjoy group discounts on our Guernsey, Jersey and France routes.
Call 01202 207 242 or email group.travel@condorferries.co.uk
*Subject to availability for day trips from Poole to Guernsey. Price valid for groups of 20 or more. Terms and conditions apply, see condorferries.com.
FP Template.indd 29
06/02/2018 07:40
Group Travel World is the only travel magazine that offers exclusive ticket discounts!
V
ISIT OUR SITE grouptraveloffers.com for huge discounts on West End theatre, stately home and family attraction tickets across the UK. Plus, you can buy now, pay later – and there’s no group minimum.
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109 GTW Win 18 Spare single page.indd 1
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13/12/2017 16:39
UNB R EA KABLE?
How was the challenge of Enigma broken? Visit our new exhibition
Hut 11A: The Bombe Breakthrough Opens 24 March 2018 Book now bletchleypark.org.uk
Home of the Codebreakers
FP Template.indd 31
06/02/2018 07:40
The
green, green
VISIT BRITAIN
grass…
32 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Days out
Britain leads the world when it comes to glorious stately homes and public gardens, and here are just a few of our favourites CHATSWORTH HOUSE & GARDENS
Emperor, Victorian rock garden and maze, rose beds, greenhouses and much more.
The 105-acre gardens at Chatsworth House in
Guided tours of the gardens provide an
Derbyshire – which is this month’s Group Travel
opportunity to discover the amazing heritage
World magazine cover star – are well worth
and stories behind these features, and how the
a visit, complete with their historic waterworks,
Capability Brown landscape is being maintained.
their fountain complex designed to impress an
Plan your visit at www.chatsworth.org
Turn to page 106 for garden-visiting advice and inspiration from the experts at the RHS
The spectacular 18th century Chatsworth House
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
032-040 GTW Feb 18 Stately homes & gardens.indd 33
33
24/01/2018 12:34
Days out PENSHURST PLACE & GARDENS
Penshurst Place & Gardens
Set in the beautiful Weald of Kent, Penshurst Place & Gardens and its surrounding estate have stood on the banks of the river Medway since the 14th century, when the aweinspiring medieval Baron’s Hall was built as a country retreat for the Lord Mayor of London, Sir John De Pulteney. The Baron’s Hall, crowned by an original 60ft high chestnut beamed ceiling, is the jewel in Penshurst Place’s crown, and an unmissable sight for visitors to the ancestral home of the Sidney family. It’s easy to see why Penshurst Place has been the inspiration for many a literary scholar, including Ben Johnson and Philip Sidney, and more recently can be recognised as a filming location for many large and small scale television and film projects, including Anne of a Thousand Days, The Princess Bride, The Other Boleyn Girl and Wolf Hall. Used as a hunting lodge for King Henry VIII, Penshurst Place has a unique place in history. The house was gifted to the Sidney Family in 1552 by Edward VI, and has remained in their safe hands ever since, making it one of the oldest family-owned estates in England. The stately home with 11 acres of formal gardens separated into different themed ‘rooms’, can tailor tours to cover a variety of special interests. For groups with a horticultural interest, guided tours with the estate’s
In May, Kew Gardens will see the re-opening of the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse following a five-year restoration project. Covering 4,880 square metres, the Temperate House is home to over 1,500 plant species, including some of the world’s rarest. New cutting-edge displays are also planned. See www.kew.org
Head Gardener are also available. See www.penshurstplace.com
KENILWORTH CASTLE & GARDENS Step back in time to discover just how Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, sought to impress Elizabeth I during her visits to Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire. Not only did he transform the surrounding landscape with walks and bowers, he laid out a private garden for the Queen full of colour and fragrance, which has since been recreated english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ Kenilworth-castle/history
VISIT BRITAIN
according to the original plans. See www.
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Temple Newsam Estate – 500 years of history Discover an amazing mansion, scenic Capability Brown parkland and a historic working farm. The perfect group visit location, with tailored packages to suit you. www.leeds.gov.uk/groupvisits
Enjoy a day out at Lotherton The Edwardian country estate of Lotherton boasts a treasure trove of fine art collections, Fashion Galleries and enjoys 52 hectares of breath-taking grounds. Build your bespoke group package today by visiting www.leeds.gov.uk/groupvisits
leeds.gov.uk/templenewsam
leeds.gov.uk/lotherton
templenewsam
Lotherton
leighton hall THE HISTORIC SEAT CARNFORTH
£16.00
OF THE GILLOW FAMILY
Plan your route for
2018
LANCASHIRE
M6 Exit 35 Carnforth, Lancashire LA5 9ST T: 01524 734474 www.leightonhall.co.uk
London
Supplement Bigger
Discounts
“Brief Encounter” at Leighton Hall & Carnforth Station
www.grouptravel offers.com
Access to
Travel Jobs GALLERIES • EXHIBITIONS • SHOPPING • HOUSE TOURS BIRDS OF PREY • PRETTY GARDENS • WOODLAND WALKS
Subscribe
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invitation
www.traveljobs world.com
for Group Travel Organisers
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Nostalgic ith DAy Out w ea T n o o n er Aft
Includes time at the home of ‘Brief Encounte r’ and a guided tour of a stunning Lancas hire historic house.
available for Pre-Booked groups throughout 2018. Only £16.00 per person.
QP Template.indd 35
thoughts! Get in touch with the team at
A
1ST TO
Liv w
Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/competition
08/02/2018 20:55
Days out
VISIT BRITAIN
The ‘Mudmaid’ – a giant sleeping beauty sculpted by local artist Sue Hill on the Woodland Walk at The Lost Gardens of Heligan
HIDDEN
GEMS
Once lost, now treasured, discover the magic of Britain’s hidden gardens
Meet the expert
Iain Davies
As Head Gardener at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Iain shares why they are such a magical place to visit...
get asked about the pineapple beds and the pineapple plants, which actually fruit here. I’ve also introduced rare breed animals into the gardens, as this was part of the original vision of Tim Smit. “I do a lot of group tours, and a lot of work with TV and radio, including BBC4’s new garden restoration programme on
“The Lost Gardens of Heligan are one of
exotic plants. When people come here,
the most loved gardens in the country due
they can ask for all kinds of guided talks.
to their back story of the First World War
Some groups are generally interested in
gardeners who went off to war and never
everything, some in the plants, some in
N RECENT YEARS various hidden gardens
came back, and how the gardens were
the family history of the estate, some in
have come to light. The Lost Gardens of
found again. I have known the gardens
the vegetable gardens, and we have even
Heligan in Cornwall are well known, while in
since the beginning and had always wanted
had one dealing with the local fishing
Wales the restoration of the Aberglasney
to work here, so becoming Head Gardener
facilities, which was linked to the estate.
Gardens have led to many unique features
was fantastic.
I
being discovered. The Upper Walled Garden
“We garden in a Victorian manner
“This is a great place to work. We’re lucky with a great climate, and it is a lovely
has recently re-emerged from a sea of
so visitors can see just how it was
place to come to work in the morning,
undergrowth following restoration overseen
maintained before the war. We often
looking out over Mevagissey Bay.”
by garden designer Penelope Hobhouse. Typical features include the Cloister garden and Alpinum Garden. Plan your visit at
The Lost Gardens’ ‘Giant Head’ sculpture
heligan.com and www.aberglasney.org
Knebworth House Visitors to Knebworth House in Hertfordshire can enjoy tours of the lavish Tudor stately home, as well as its gardens, Dinosaur Trail and adventure playground. See www.knebworthhouse.com
36 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Cliveden’s stunning house and gardens are the perfect destination for a group day out. There's beautiful seasonal floral displays, an outstanding sculpture collection and guided tours. Cliveden welcomes group visits throughout the year, from Monday to Saturday. We recommend you allow three to four hours to see the formal gardens and have enough time to stop for lunch or tea. Cliveden offers pre-bookable guided tours for groups who wish to find out a bit more about the House or Garden. Free admission for NT members, £10 per non-member adult.
FP Template.indd 37
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Days out THE NATIONAL TRUST GARDENS The National Trust has more than 200 wonderful gardens to visit, ranging from landscape parks to beautiful flower gardens. Many possess an impressive history or have stunning collections. In Norfolk, Sheringham Park combines both of these factors, with stunning vistas down to the coast, as well as vast colourful arrays of azaleas and rhododendrons in late spring. Mottisfont in Hampshire is famed for its roses, while at Biddulph Grange in Staffordshire you can journey from an Italian terrace to a Chinese inspired garden via a Himalayan Glen and an Egyptian pyramid. Cragside in VISIT BRITAIN/VISIT WALES
Northumberland has an amazing stumpery, and Bodnant Gardens in Wales is renowned for its shimmering yellow springtime laburnum arch covering 55 metres. See www. nationaltrust.org.uk/gardens-and-parks
Meet the expert Steve Reed
Bodnant Gardens
2
CROOK HALL & GARDENS, DURHAM
The home of Maggie and Keith Bell, Crook
3
ATHELHAMPTON HOUSE & GARDENS, DORSET
Athelhampton is a truly historical experience
Hall and Gardens is unique in the true sense
for groups as they sample the 15th century
Travel pro Steve shares his top
of the word. It’s one of the few remaining,
manor house, the Great Court and its striking
three stately homes and gardens...
and intact, medieval manor houses left in this
pyramid shaped trees, as well as the superb
country, with a garden Alice in Wonderland
Marevna Art Gallery there. It’s just up the
would much admire.
road from Tolpuddle Village and their famous
1
TATTON PARK, CHESHIRE Tatton deserves its iconic status: its
Set on the banks of the River Wear in
gardens, Tudor Old Hall and neo-classical
the historic city of Durham, its home-made
mansion take your breath away. Look out for
scones, tantalising maze, Shakespeare Garden
Tatton’s events too – each year they have
and sprinkling of art and sculpture help to
over 100 of them, which makes it the ideal
make this a special group visit. Look out too
attraction for groups visiting the north west.
for the ghosts that are reputed to inhabit this
See tattonpark.org.uk
hidden gem. See crookhallgardens.co.uk
For more on Steve’s 2018 Group Travel Forums – in association with Group Travel World magazine – see www. stevereedtourism .co.uk
VISIT ENGLAND
Tatton Park
Martyrs. See www.athelhampton.co.uk
38 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
032-040 GTW Feb 18 Stately homes & gardens.indd 38
24/01/2018 12:34
WADDESDON MANOR
Inspiring days out for groups at RHS Gardens
Save up to 50% on repeat visits*
020 7821 3170
Once the country home of the Rothschilds, this Renaissance-style château houses one of the finest collections of French 18th-century decorative arts in the world. The Victorian garden has a parterre, aviary, seasonal displays, walks, fountains and statuary, and with shops and restaurants, Waddesdon makes a memorable day out for everyone.
*Terms and Conditions; 50% off is applicable on the standard groups admission price only, based on groups of 10 or more guests. Applicable only to repeat visits to RHS Gardens Harlow Carr, Rosemoor, Wisley and Hyde Hall between the 1st October 2018 and the 31st January 2019. See website for full terms and conditions. www.rhs.org.uk/groups
For opening times and group rates 01296 653209 groups@waddesdon.org.uk . www.waddesdon.org.uk
RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262
Near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JH
Start planning your group visit today
www.rhs.org.uk/groups
Living wonder Brimming with horticulture, science and royal heritage
QP Template.indd 39
Contact us for special group rates kew.org/groups 020 8332 5648
06/02/2018 09:19
Days out
History repeating Discover why Bowood House and Gardens is well worth exploring this summer
B
Mandy Dobson, garden guide at the attraction. “The garden tours are a chance for our visitors to take in one of Capability Brown’s most spectacular garden designs. We try to give a real insight into his vision and how he created the landscape. It’s a fascinating story and a spectacular sight, with plantations, sweeping lawns and a lake. It’s only when
OWOOD HOUSE AND Gardens in
stand as one of the very finest examples
you’re standing in the grounds, which Brown
Wiltshire is the home of the Marquis and
of the landscape architect’s work.
created essentially with just a spade and
Marchioness of Lansdowne and sits in grounds
Bowood’s gardens were awarded the
designed by Britain’s greatest landscape
HHA/Christies gardens of the year award
designer, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.
in 2014, and the four-acre private walled
no mechanical aid, that you can appreciate what an astonishing achievement it was. “We take our tours along the lake, to the
garden can be enjoyed through a pre-
hidden cascade and through the arboretum.
library and chapel, where Joseph Priestley
booked tour, while the woodland gardens
There is so much history within the house
claimed to have discovered oxygen in 1774,
are open annually between April and June.
itself and this is reflected in our other tours,
the sculpture gallery, and the exhibition
Group rates, for groups of 20 or more, are
which include a tour of our four-acre private
rooms containing 300 years of artefacts and
available, with tickets allowing access to
walled garden and a woodland tour.
antiques from the family history. A huge art
Bowood House and Gardens, the adventure
and antique collection includes Napoleon’s
playground and Tractor Ted’s Little Farm.
A wander around the house takes in the
death mask and Queen Victoria’s
“IT HAS SUCH A WONDERFUL HISTORY”
wedding chair. The grounds, meanwhile, are a stunning sight; created by Brown over five years between 1763 and 1768, they
Plan your visit at www. bowood.org
“Our huge array of artefacts reflects the stories behind the house. The fourth Marquess married the daughter of Napoleon’s aide-de-camp, and Joseph Priestley, the 18th century theologist, identified
“Bowood House has a wonderful
oxygen while working as a librarian here.
history and we try to bring these
All these stories are brought to life – it’s
stories to life on our tours,” says
a really educational place to visit.”
GTW
Bowood House in Wiltshire
40 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Discover the hidden secrets inside ...
◆ Magnificent Hall ◆ Award-winning Gardens ◆ Gift Shop ◆ Parking FREE ◆ Gardener’s Kitchen Café 23rd & 24th June u Magnificent Hall u Garden Festival ◆ 500 years of heritage u Award-winning Gardens u Group rates & garden tours available ◆ Garden Festival 23rd & 24th June u Gift Shop u Parking FREE ◆ Group rates & garden tours available u Gardener’s Kitchen Café u Group Organiser and Driver FREE ◆ Group Organiser and Driver FREE u 500 years of heritage u Meal for Driver FREE ◆ Meal Voucher forVoucher Driver FREE
Contactmargaretrj@arleyhallandgardens.com Contactmargaretrj@arleyhallandgardens.com Arley Hall & Gardens, Northwich, Cheshire CW9 6NA Tel: 01565 777 353 www.arleyhallandgardens.com /arleyhall @arleyhall
With over 300 years of history there is something for everyone at Stowe House! shptbookings@stowe.co.uk www.stowehouse.org
01280818002
Photos by Alan Longworth and LouiseSmithPhotography
House, Park and Gardens open Easter Saturday to 30th September. Groups rates available, organiser goes for free* Groups can book tours of the House or go round at their own pace. Free Parking - Sat Nav AL9 5HX (*Terms and conditions apply)
www.hatfield-house. co. uk QP Template.indd 41
09/02/2018 12:17
The north west
Head for the hills
Recently awarded Unesco World Heritage status, there’s never been a better time to visit the Lake District National Park
F
ROM A VISIT to William Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage – a former pub in Grasmere
We love the Beatrix Potter Trail (download it from www.nationaltrust.org.
that he converted into a home for him
uk/beatrix-potter-gallery-and-hawkshead),
and his sister to live in – to a tour of The
and the wonderful, years-old Grasmere
Lakes Distillery in Bassenthwaite, the Lake
Gingerbread Shop.
District National Park is rich in group- and
Find out more at wordsworth.org.uk;
family-friendly attractions, as you’d expect
www.lakesdistillery.com and www.
from a region that was awarded Unesco
grasmeregingerbread.co.uk – and plan your
World Heritage status last summer.
trip at www.cumbriatourism.org
The family-owned Hayes Garden World in Ambleside welcomes groups and coach parties. Find out more at www.hayesgarden world.co.uk
GTW
VISITENGLAND/ALEX HARE
Borrowdale Valley, near Derwentwater Lake
42 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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08/02/2018 21:06
The north east
Make waves
Three very good reasons to head to the north east this summer...
B
AMBURGH CASTLE SITS on a rocky
out to the islands for a closer look. Also keep
Built on the site of the fortress that gave
plateau on the Northumberland coast,
an eye on the sea, where you may spot seals
the city its name, Newcastle Castle
and is one of the largest inhabited castles in
and harbour porpoise among the waves.
welcomes groups keen to explore all this
the UK. Groups and families can take a guided
See www.bamburghcastle.com
13th century attraction has to offer.
tour of the castle, with its medieval kitchen,
Explore the ancient passageways and
library and clock tower, and magnificent King’s
Following a £10 million investment,
chambers where kings walked and villains
Hall. Find out about the ghosts that roam, and
visitors can now enjoy Open Treasure
were imprisoned and find the marks left
hear the tale of King Oswald’s stolen head...
at Durham Cathedral, a new world-class
by the inhabitants through the ages.
Wildlife lovers should hope for a clear day
exhibition experience. It gives access to
Exhibits guide visitors through the
when they can see out to the Farne Islands,
previously hidden spaces within the
castle’s history over the years, from
which is home to puffins and seals pups. In
cathedral’s magnificent claustral buildings.
Roman times to the modern day. See
summer take a boat from Seahouse Harbour
See www.durhamcathedral.co.uk
www.newcastlecastle.co.uk
GTW
VISIT ENGLAND/THOMAS HEATON
Bamburgh Castle
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Advertorial
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking Norman architecture, the Shrine of St Cuthbert and the tomb of the Venerable Bede.
The Tudors
A new exhibition at Durham Cathedral brings the city’s Tudor past to life
D
URHAM
display this month,
cathedral, as well as
CATHEDRAL’S
called ‘Tudors: the
changes in worship
world-class Open
family and faith in
wrought by the
Treasure exhibition
Durham’, revealing
Reformation. Find
experience will open
the impact of the
out more at www.
a new temporary
royal family on the
durhamcathedral.co.uk
- 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
Bamburgh The King of Castles
amazing
◆
◆
1-2 Hour visit includes guided tour of the castle rooms Armstrong & Aviation Museum Live archaeological digs Dedicated entrance for coach parties Free admission and refreshments for drivers 62-seat Cafeteria and Gift Shop offering locally-sourced products
The Tudors ◆ ◆ ◆
◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆
Free inspection visits Provision of publicity images Only 4 miles from the A1 Out-of-hours tours by appointment 20% Off walk-up price Direct access to sand dunes and village from car park Easy walk around base of the castle walls with interpretation
A new exhibition at Durham Cathedral brings the city’s Tudor past to life ◆
◆
world-class Open
family and faith in
To make an enquiry or a booking please contact the Main Office: cathedral, as well as Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland changes inNE69 worship 7DF Tel 01668 214208 Email wrought by the administrator@bamburghcastle.com
Treasure exhibition
Durham’, revealing
Reformation. Find
experience will open
the impact of the
out more at www.
a new temporary
royal family on the
durhamcathedral.co.uk
D
FP Template.indd 45
URHAM
display this month,
CATHEDRAL’S
called ‘Tudors: the
[DAYS OUT]
OPEN all year round, weekend opening in winter. Free guided tours and introductory talks. We offer a variety of tailor- made packages, including live music, tastings and specialist talks should you wish to add a little extra to your visit.
www.bamburghcastle.com
08/02/2018 21:17
The Church of the Assumption of St Mary stands on the banks of the River Neva
Absolutely Fabergé Mike Pickup explores Russia at its finest on a cruise to St Petersburg – coined by many as the ‘Venice of the North’
T
Embankment, bordering a waterfront promenade and broad tree-lined road with elegant buildings. Locals walked their dogs and stopped to chat in the warm sunshine, and the sparkling domed church of the Assumption of St Mary was nearby... Now that’s more like it! Nearby, a Russian submarine was moored, a fascinating visitor attraction and one that illustrates how relaxed St Petersburg is about international visitors.
HE CAR ARRIVED outside our house
captain downwards, are unfailingly hospitable
precisely on time, and soon we were on
and helpful, adding to the warm and friendly
THE VENICE OF THE NORTH
atmosphere on board.
With 42 islands and 342 bridges over canals
our way to join Saga Pearl II on her Baltic Cruise. This door-to-door service is one of
The main destination for our cruise was St
and rivers, St Petersburg is often referred to as
the many benefits of cruising with Saga.
Petersburg, Russia’s cultural capital and, as we
the Venice of the North. This city of five million
Others include optional travel insurance, free
approached, the rows of rusting hulls being
people has over 300 museums and, before
internet access, drinks with lunch and dinner
broken for scrap just didn’t prepare me for the
the revolution, had around 1,000 palaces.
and no added tips or gratuities. Despite this,
dazzling experience that was to come.
The best known is the huge Winter Palace
or maybe because of it, the crew, from the
We moored at Lieutenant Schmidt’s
overlooking the south bank of the Neva River.
46 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Cruise holidays The Winter Palace was, until 1917, the official residence of the Russian monarchs
St Nicholas Church is a Baroque Orthodox cathedral
The spookily-named Church of the Spilled Blood
The original, a modest wooden structure, was
amazing collection consists of around three
collection belongs to Viktor Vekselberg.
built for Peter the Great, but was later replaced
million works of art. Even with five other
Opened in 2013, it’s located in the Shuvalov
by the current enormous building, its design
buildings now dedicated to its display, only
Palace, restored specifically to house the
approved by Empress Elizabeth in 1754. It is
around 15% of the collection is on view at any
exhibition, and contains 4,000 works of art,
simply stunning.
one time.
including dinner services and religious icons.
The Winter Palace is also home to the world-famous Hermitage museum, and this
Top of my priority list, however, was a visit to the Fabergé museum. This priceless private
It’s the world’s largest Fabergé collection and includes nine Imperial Easter Eggs. Some open to reveal exquisite miniatures:
Mike’s cabin on board
the gold, diamond and enamel Imperial Coronation Egg contains a gold miniature carriage, and the diamond, ruby and enamel Hen Egg contains a miniature hen and a painting on a diamond-encrusted easel. It’s Kinder Surprise on steroids! The items are all beautifully displayed in glass cases and so entrancing are they that it’s easy to ignore the rooms of the palace itself which, in any other situation, would have drawn gasps of admiration. FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Cruise holidays A Fabergé Chanticleer egg
SPILLED BLOOD...
They fed the local poor of St Petersburg with
My next stop was the Church of the Spilled
a beef stew that included mustard and sour
Blood; another ‘must see’ building, constructed
cream, and so beef stroganoff was born.
to commemorate the assassination of Alexander II. Its colourful onion-shaped domes
RUSSIA AT ITS BEST
are matched by an amazing interior that initially
There’s much to see in St Petersburg, but I felt
appears to be painted and gilded, but actually
I should explore a little further. I took a 30-mile
consists of nearly 85,000 square feet of
drive pass endless anonymous blocks of flats
mosaic tiles. I also visited the impressive blue,
to the coast of the Gulf of Finland to see the
white and gold St Nicholas Cathedral. It was
Palace of Peterhof. It may be in the suburbs,
built between 1753 and 1762 in what was
but it’s no less glamorous and glitzy. Peter the
then the sailors’ quarter of the city, and named
Great was inspired by the palace at Versailles
after St Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.
to build his own version with ornamental
I drove down Nevsky Prospekt, the city’s
grounds and fountains. However, much of what
main street, to the Mariinsky Theatre. Dating
visitors now see is the result of his daughter
back to 1860, it’s home to ballet, opera and
Elizabeth’s re-design, for whom this was a
orchestral companies and is where Swan Lake
favourite place. She created the current palace
was first performed in 1895. Nearby I saw
and formal gardens. If the word ‘bling’ had been
the Stroganov Palace, home to the Counts
around in those days, the many gilded and
Stroganov. The Stroganovs were originally rich
shimmering statues would be a classic example;
peasants who never lost track of their roots.
it makes Versailles look a little dowdy...
Top of my priority list was a visit to the Fabergé museum… it’s Kinder Surprise on steroids!
Get me there... ■ Visitors
The Peterhof Palace is a series of palaces and gardens
by ship are allowed 72 hours’
and from Dover, all meals, drinks with meals, gratuities, wi-fi and optional travel insurance.
visa-free entry to St Petersburg, but
■ The
excursions must be booked either with
St Petersburg (for two days), Kotka,
ship calls at Gdansk, Tallinn,
the ship or online with an approved
Visby, Karlskrona and Kiel.
company, otherwise visas are required.
■
■A
offers one free place in 10.
14-night trip aboard Saga Pearl II,
For group bookings, Saga Cruises
departing Dover on May 22, 2018, costs
■ To
from £2,457pp. This includes transport to
www.saga.co.uk/cruises
book, call 0800 505030 or visit GTW
48 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Lose yourself in the Crown Jewels The treasures that united the kingdom.
Contact us for group bookings 020 3166 6000 groupsandtraveltrade@hrp.org.uk www.hrp.org.uk Royal Collection Trust Š 2018 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
CE 4612 Crown Jewels GTW.indd 1 FP Template.indd 49
07/02/2018 14:36 09/02/2018 14:04
Cruise holidays
Sea the light
Make your next group or family cruise a memorable one with Cruise & Maritime Voyages...
C
RUISE & MARITIME Voyages (CMV) is Britain’s leading independent cruise
Cruising with CMV has never been easier, with a varied programme of convenient
line, with a fleet of five smaller to mid-sized
regional departures from 11 UK ports
cruise ships that are accessible to more
– bringing cruising closer to home.
ports of call than the larger resort ships.
CMV offers a wide selection of scenic
All CMV’s ships – from the smaller
cruising holidays, including the breathtaking
vessels to the impressive Magellan – offer
Norwegian Fjords, the glorious Baltic and
a welcoming, relaxed haven for all types of
St Petersburg, Iceland, the spectacular
groups. You can enjoy a wide selection of
Land of the Northern Lights, the Canary
well-appointed public lounges and facilities
Islands and Madeira, Spain and Portugal,
and, on most cruises, a choice of special guest
the Mediterranean and, closer to home,
speakers and arts and crafts programmes.
its ever popular ‘round Britain’ cruises.
The emphasis is on providing comfortable
Ideal for groups and first time cruisers
accommodation, delicious cuisine, stylish
are a selection of shorter mini cruises
entertainment and attentive service.
from just £59 per person.
For a copy of CMV’s 2018/19 Worldwide Cruise Collection, and details of its generous savings, group benefits and free places, call 0844 414 6199
GTW
CMV’s Magellan
50 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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2018/19 Cruises for Groups
SAVE UP TO
50%
PLUS GRO UP DEALS PLUS FRE E PLACES
Scenic cruising holidays from 11 UK ports Our fleet of traditional style cruise ships, sailing from 11 British ports, offer a warm welcome to all types of groups with their wide selection of well appointed lounges and facilities, delicious cuisine and stylish entertainment. If you are a travel organiser within a club, society or association, we really believe that we can make your group’s cruise experience a special one.
Exceptional value group benefits
Scenic cruising holidays to...
• Special welcome aboard cocktail party**
Norwegian fjords – Baltic Cities – British Isles – Iceland – European Cities & Rivers – Canary Islands & Madeira – Scottish Islands – Spain & Portugal – Northern Lights – Christmas Markets – Christmas & New Year and Worldwide voyages
You must book your group by 31st March 2018 to enjoy these benefits which are available for a limited period.
& 0844 998 9272
• A group booking constitutes just 12 adult guests • Up to 10% additional group discount • Book 20 adult passengers and we will offer you one FREE place and an EXTRA free place if you book 40 adult passengers*
So hurry to avoid disappointment.
Email: groups@cruiseandmaritime.com Visit: www.cruiseandmaritime.com
Prices are from and per person based on two adults sharing a twin cabin. Excludes gratuities at £7pp per night. Single occupancy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to availability. *Free places can also be exchanged as a credit based on the lowest cabin category booked. **The special welcome aboard cocktail party will be organised for groups of 30 plus passengers on cruises of 4 nights or more. Terms & Conditions apply. Subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice. Calls will cost 5p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge. Operated by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise & Maritime Voyages. 4051
4051 Group Travel World FP Template.indd 51 a4 +3mm bleed.indd 1
18/01/2018 07:43 14:00 06/02/2018
Four Amur tigers roam Woburn Safari Park’s nine-acre Kingdom of the Carnivores
52 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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24/01/2018 12:57
Days out
INTO THE
WILD
The UK’s home to some of the most impressive zoos and safari parks in Europe, so get set to release your inner Attenborough Words: Darren Calpin
ZOOS
Scotland’s capital is the only place in the
WHIPSNADE ZOO
UK where these gorgeous monochrome
Everything about Whipsnade is big. At 600
bamboo-munchers can be seen. It’s worth
acres, the Bedfordshire zoo is the largest
noting that this is also the only British zoo
in the UK, with more than 2,500 animals.
where you can see koala bears. Plus there
Even the types of animal that call Whipsnade
are baby chimps (in the award-winning
home are big, with its elephants, rhinos,
Budongo Trail enclosure), Indian rhinos,
tigers, lions, brown bears, zebras, moose and
sun bears and a daily penguin parade.
hippos. And, just for good measure, it boasts
n Get me there: Groups of 10 or more get a
the UK’s largest herd of Asian elephants,
discount. Visit www.edinburghzoo.org.uk
which you can observe enjoying their daily ‘walkies’ around the grounds. In fact, the only
AQUARIUMS
thing that’s small is the zoo’s charming little
DEEP SEA WORLD
narrow gauge steam railway.
Set right beneath the iconic Forth Rail
n Get me there: Enjoy savings of up to 15%
Bridge in Fife, Deep Sea World is a striking
when you buy tickets for 10 or more at
example of how education, interaction and
www.zsl.org/ticket/zsl-whipsnade-zoo
observation can be combined to create an
BRISTOL ZOO
animal attraction par excellence. A stroll through the world’s longest
The great thing about Bristol Zoo is that
underwater viewing tunnel enables you to
it’s pretty compact (a very manageable
walk along the bottom of the ocean, while
12 acres). This means it’s easy to explore on
sharks swim inches above your head. You
foot, yet still has more than 450 species of
can even dive with Jaws and his pals if you’re
animals vying for your attention. The recently
brave enough (training is included). Throw
built gorilla house features a glass-roofed
in the fact Deep Sea World maintains a huge
viewing area you can actually walk over,
educational programme and works tirelessly
making it a world first.
with the SSPCA and it’s evident this is an
n Get me there: Groups of 20-plus get a
animal attraction that sets the bar very high.
special rate. See www.bristolzoo.org.uk
n Get me there: Discounts are available
EDINBURGH ZOO Although Edinburgh Zoo has animals from
for groups of 15 or more. Find out more at www.deepseaworld.com
all around the world on its 82-acre site, it’s
SEA LIFE LONDON AQUARIUM
fair to say most visitors come here to see two
In the heart of London, right next door to The
animals in particular – giant pandas Tian Tian
London Eye on the South Bank, the capital’s
and Yang Guang.
only aquarium boasts one of the largest
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
052-056 GTW Feb 18 Animal attractions hm.indd 53
53
24/01/2018 12:57
WWT WETLAND CENTRES Bring your flock to meet our flocks
GENEROUS GROUP DISCOUNTS
Bring your group close to unforgettable wildlife at all nine of our UK WWT wetland centres and discover our extensive range of group benefits. To book phone 01453 891176 or email groups@wwt.org.uk.
For more information visit wwt.org.uk/groups
FP Template.indd 54
09/02/2018 14:03
Days out collections of global marine life in Europe.
raise their ribs and roar through their mighty
Along with crowd-pulling favourites, like
mouths, have an uncanny way of making
the shark-infested reefs, this ever-popular
you feel slightly more intimidated than you
attraction has the likes of piranhas, poison dart
thought you would.
frogs and Cuban crocodiles up its sleeve. ■ Get me there:
See grouptraveloffers.com
African Village and live shows are all included
for discounted entry.
in the ticket price.
WEIRD & WONDERFUL
CROCODILES OF THE WORLD
WMSP’s four-mile self-drive safari, Discovery Trail exhibits, animal encounters,
■ Get me there: M A G A Z I N E
WINNER
From critically endangered Siamese crocodiles to
Discounts of up to 50%
are available for groups of 10 or more. See www.wmsp.co.uk SAFARI PARKS
Explore Lion Country at Longleat
World in Oxfordshire will take you on a journey
LONGLEAT SAFARI PARK
of discovery, meeting different species of
Set in 900 acres of pristine
silverback gorillas in the world, passed away
crocodiles, caiman and alligators, as well as
Wiltshire gardens, designed by
in his sleep at the start of the year.
meerkats, otters, tamarins and a fishing cat.
Capability Brown, Longleat Safari Park
■ Get me there: A range of discounts are
is famed for being the first drive-through
on offer for groups of 12 or more. Visit
where you can see a komodo dragon, called
safari park outside of Africa. Today, this
www.longleat.co.uk/group-tickets
Batu. Zoo Director Shaun Foggett says:
huge animal attraction in the grounds of
“Komodo dragons are an endangered reptile
Longleat House (the stately home of the
and Batu is part of the European Endangered
7th Marquess of Bath) is home to 500 animals
BLAIR DRUMMOND SAFARI AND ADVENTURE PARK
Species Programme. It’s a real honour to help
that can be viewed from the comfort of your
As Scotland’s only drive-through safari park,
raise their profile and ensure their survival.”
car or, if you prefer, from one of the park’s
Blair Drummond in Stirling is the only place
safari buses or VIP 4x4s.
where you can see elephants and giraffes
Chinese alligators, a visit to Crocodiles of the
The zoo is also one of only four in the UK
■ Get me there:
Just a few minutes off the
A40, between Witney and Burford, it’s open
M A G A Z I N E
WINNER
While it’s possible to feed deer from your
north of the border. This modest, yet very
vehicle and even get out and see giraffes
picturesque, safari park in 120 acres of
and zebras on foot in the African Village area,
beautiful woodland is also home to rhinos,
you’ll need to stay safely stowed away when
zebras, lions and camels as well as a host of
If you’ve ever fancied visiting Jurassic Park,
observing the park’s chief attractions: the
other animals. When you’ve finished your
but don’t much like the idea of being chased
lions, tigers and cheetahs.
safari circuit you can swap your car for a boat
daily, see www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk
LAND OF THE LIVING DINOSAURS
by renegade dinosaurs, look no further than
A gentle jungle cruise boat ride offers a
West Midland Safari Park’s latest attraction.
change of scene and a chance to spot hippos
sea lion or bird of prey demonstrations.
This immersive walking trail features 38
and sea lions. Though last month came the
■ Get me there:
state-of-the-art animatronic dinosaurs which,
very sad news that the park’s famous gorilla
available for coach groups of 15 or more.
thanks to the way they puff their cheeks,
has died. Nico, who was one of the oldest
Visit www.blairdrummond.com
tour around Chimp Island and catch one of the Discounted rates are
A female Asian elephant treks the Chiltern hills at Whipsnade
ZSL
Get your FREE Group Travel Offers brochure for cheaper tickets to a range of UK attractions. Email harley@grouptravel offers.com
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Days out Emma’s on a mission to make every group visit to Woburn a memorable one
For more on the Bedfordshire safari park see www.woburn safari.co.uk
“A bear tried to get on the bus!” Woburn Safari Park’s Education Enrichment Assistant, Emma Footitt, on quirky tours, playful bears and why she has a soft spot for giraffes... GTW: What does a typical day involve?
animal stories and anecdotes. Depending
GTW: What are your top tips for making
Emma Footitt: As Woburn’s Education
on whether a half- or full-day experience is
the most of a day trip?
Enrichment Assistant, I spend most of my
required, groups can also take advantage of the
Emma: Leave plenty of time and arrive early
days educating school groups and adult
leisure attractions, including trips on the Great
when the park opens at 10am, as there is
coach tours with fascinating animal facts and
Woburn Railway to see the deer, wild ass and
so much to see. It’s a good idea to check out
information about the park’s history, animal
elephants; the chance to explore Swan Lake
the website and safari maps beforehand so
species and the importance of conservation.
in Swan Boats, or simply discover the animal
you know where to go to see your favourite
This normally involves giving fun short talks in
houses and adorable creatures in the Foot
animals. In my experience, it’s also well worth
the Foot Safari about fluffy small animals like
Safari. There are also several catering packages
doing the Road Safari twice, as you’ll often get
lemurs or meerkats, or jumping on a coach
available at the Safari Lodge, a unique venue
to see the animals doing different things each
tour to provide entertaining commentary as it
overlooking the animal enclosures.
time, from sleeping and playing to walking right in front of the coach.
goes on a Road Safari adventure to discover Woburn’s rhinos, tigers, lions, bears, giraffes
GTW: Do you have a favourite among
and monkeys.
the animals at Woburn?
GTW: Any funny or memorable stories
Emma: I love all the animals, but my favourites
from the park?
GTW: What can groups expect from a
have to be the Rothschild’s giraffes with
Emma: On one of my first group tours
trip to Woburn, and how does the ranger
their long necks, bumpy heads and stunning
on the Road Safari, Woburn’s cheekiest
experience add to the whole experience?
pattered skin. My love affair with the giraffe
North American black bear named Big
Emma: That depends on the group, as
species started when I was just a young girl,
Mac tried to climb on to the coach! I had
there is plenty to do. If coming by coach,
and I even chose them for my university
a group of excitable children on board, who
an experienced Safari Park Ranger can be
dissertation project. I try to incorporate them
of course found it hilarious. The patrol keepers
arranged to meet groups at the gate to
into my work, and often ask visitors to make
in the Road Safari were very quick to assist
accompany them on their adventure. The
silly faces by seeing if they can pick their nose
and help him move on, but it certainly was
ranger brings the Road Safari to life by
with their tongues – as that’s one of the
one of the most memorable stories of my
providing fascinating insights and telling
giraffes’ unique abilities!
career to date.
GTW
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Burford road, Brize norton, Oxfordshire OX18 3nX
08/02/2018 20:58
VISIT ENGLAND
Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands
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Days out
Bon voyage We’re a nation of car, rail and plane lovers, with world-class motoring and transport museums dotted across the UK... Words: Darren Calpin
CARS & VEHICLES
BROOKLANDS MUSEUM
museum is free, and guided tours are available at an additional cost. Groups
As the de facto birthplace of British
of 10 or more enjoy discounted rates on
motorsport – and aviation – Brooklands in
the 4D Land Speed Record Simulator.
Weybridge, Surrey is a national conservation
See www.transport-museum.com
area and monument as well as a top-class museum. So, along with a truly amazing
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
collection of supercars and sports cars (you’ll
LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM
have never seen so many Ferraris in one place),
This ever-so-evocative museum in Covent
you’ll also find the world’s first purpose-built
Garden Piazza vividly brings to life the history
motor racing circuit and four listed buildings
of London’s public transport network from
on-site. Oh, and they also have an actual
the 19th century to the present day. The
Concorde supersonic jet too...
great thing about LTM is that it uses a highly
■ Get me there:
Brooklands offers a
interactive approach to highlight the role
range of packages to groups of 15-plus.
transport has played in shaping the capital’s
See www.brooklandsmuseum.com
development, culture and society over the past
COVENTRY TRANSPORT MUSEUM
200 years. This means you can more often than not touch, climb aboard, and sometimes
Boasting the largest publicly owned collection
even drive the lovely old omnibuses, buses,
of British vehicles in the world, this expansive
trains, tubes and taxis on display.
two-storey museum in Coventry city centre
■ Get me there:
tells the 150-year story of the UK’s car
get preferential group rates. Bookings
industry in definitive detail. With 240 cars and
should be made at least one week in
commercial vehicles, and more than 200 cycles
advance by calling 0207 565 7298.
and 100 motorcycles, CTM is packed to the
Visit www.ltmuseum.co.uk
gills with vehicular sights that you’re unlikely to
Parties of 10 or more
see anywhere else. They even have the fastest
NATIONAL TRAMWAY MUSEUM
car in the world – the supersonic Thrust SCC.
High up in the sweeping Derbyshire
Small wonder then that the collection here is
countryside, overlooking the famous
considered one of the finest in the world.
Derwent Valley, is Crich Tramway Village,
■ Get me there:
Admission to the
a charming period hamlet that’s also home Coventry Transport Museum
See the Thrust SCC, the world’s fastest car, at Coventry Transport Museum
‘IT’S A REAL PLACE OF JOY’ TV’s Mike Brewer (left) is President of Coventry Transport Museum. Here, he explains why the museum’s great for groups and families... “This place is amazing. You can walk through a timeline of the whole of British motoring, right the way from the early push cycles to the latest creations from Jaguar Land Rover. “You can walk through generation after generation of car design and car builders. You can also listen to stories and interact with a lot of the displays... all under one roof. Not only will you have a good time, you’ll learn something along the way. “The world’s fastest car is right here, in this building, and that’s something to behold (and this is the only place you can see it, anywhere in the world). And if you’re feeling peckish, there’s an amazing café out the front where you can get some great food and a nice cup of tea or coffee! “If I could sum the museum up in a few words it would be ‘a real place of joy’.”
to the much-loved National Tramway Museum. While watching the vintage trams and old MISCHA PHOTO LTD
trolley buses ply their way up the lovely old-fashioned main street (replete with tea rooms and shops) is undoubtedly a treat, riding the beauties is the real joy, especially as many of them trundle out into the open FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Days out countryside where some truly spectacular views await. Be sure to have a pint with some of the costumed characters in the convivial old Red Lion pub before you leave. ■ Get me there: The
NTM offers a
special discount for groups of 10 or more, see www.tramway.co.uk TRAINS
HEAD OF STEAM MUSEUM Set in a diligently restored Georgian station on the 1825 route of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, this poignant museum tells the story of Darlington’s role as the ‘birthplace of the Railway Age’. It was here that the world’s first steam-
Xxx xxx xx xxxx xx xxx xxxx xxMuseum xxxxxxx London Transport
worked public railway was unveiled and, as you wander through the old-fashioned entrance hall and ticket office, dotted with period-style
ocean liner when it was launched in 1843.
British way of life then head for the Canal
items like porters’ barrows and uniforms,
During its colourful lifetime, this mighty
Museum in the pretty little village of Stoke
you can feel the heritage of that landmark
Victorian vessel re-invented long-distance
Bruerne, Northamptonshire.
event almost seeping through the walls.
travel and notched-up more than a million
The museum’s prize exhibit is Locomotion No 1, the actual engine built by Robert Stephenson & Co that made history and
Set in a historic old corn mill overlooking
miles as a liner, troop vessel, quarantine ship,
the Grand Union Canal, this treasure trove
emigration transport and coal hulk.
of displays, films, exhibits and collections tell
Now restored and in dry dock in Bristol’s
the story of the innovative engineers and
changed the world forever nearly 200 years
Great Western Dockyard, this inimitable
hard-working navvies who created the canals,
ago. Several other steam locomotives are also
museum ship resonates with the sights, sounds
as well as the boat families, leggers and lock
on display, along with a host of interactive
and even smells of that bygone age and
keepers who lived and worked on them.
displays, models and other exhibits.
utilises a cast of enthusiastic live performers
Groups of 10 or more
Highlights include a recreation of a
to bring the Victorian age well and truly alive.
boat builder’s workshop and models
get one free pass for every 10 paying
The actor who plays the top-hatted Brunel,
of working boats, such as butties,
visitors. Tour operators get in for free with
wandering around with his cigar, telling stories
narrow boats, tugs and barges.
groups of 30-plus. Call 01325 405060
and answering questions, is just sublime!
or visit www.darlington.gov.uk/leisure-
■ Get me there:
and-culture/head-of-steam/
special rates for pre-booked groups of
■ Get me there:
NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM
SS Great Britain offer
15-plus, see www.ssgreatbritain.org
There’s also a great free audio guide which, as well as helping you explore the museum, directs you along the banks of the Grand Union canal to the Blisworth Tunnel. ■ Get me there:
The Canal Museum offers
Often hailed as the jewel in York’s redolent
THE CANAL MUSEUM
crown of crowd-pleasing attractions, the
If you’ve ever wanted to know how and why
Call the bookings team on 01604 862229
award-winning National Railway Museum
canals became such an integral part of the
or visit canalrivertrust.org.uk
group discounts for parties of 10 or more. GTW
– the largest of its kind in the world – is filled with gleaming locos of every shape and size. Standout exhibits include George Stephenson’s legendary Rocket (the world’s first modern steam locomotive); the supersleek Mallard (which set the world speed record, 126 mph, for a steam engine in 1938); and the world-famous Flying Scotsman, the first steam loco to break the 100mph barrier. ■ Get me there:
Entry is free but
groups of 10 or more can benefit from a range of offers if they book more than three days in advance. Call 01904 621261 or visit www.nrm.org.uk SHIPS & BOATS
SS GREAT BRITAIN One of the most important ships in history, Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s SS Great Britain was the world’s first iron-hulled, screw-driven
The National Tramway Museum
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D I S C OV E R 80 Y E A R S O F AV I AT I O N H E R I TAG E
TION • C E L L O RAF T C C R I A TS • S ’ N E M N U E O S P HE MU N COM T W E O R O R L U YO HOPS • D • EXP S L K I R U O B ND AY S & W L P S • TEST A I D AC T I V E R E T N I • See www.brooklandsmuseum.com for more details Normal Museum Admission Applies
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What did the Romans do for us?
Lincoln Castle
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Days out When it comes to the historic city of Lincoln, the answer is plenty...
city Lincoln was in Roman times, and tell its many stories – from its time as the Roman hill fort of Lindum Colonia to the secrets behind its medieval castle (home to the 1215 Magna Carta and the 1217 Charter
Words: Helen Milbank
of the Forest), as well as its cathedral. We learned that the remains of Lindum Colonia, founded in the first century AD, can still be seen, and that the cathedral was once the world’s tallest building – until 1549 when the spire collapsed. We discovered centuries-old stone mason pranks in the form of hidden carvings (who knew there was such mischief to be made with stone!), and paid 20p to light up the famous Lincoln Imp. Despite the bitter temperatures it was one of the best mornings I’ve ever had and I now see the city in a totally different light.
Find out more at visitlincoln. com/groups
Stu and Helen explore Lincoln’s Roman past (after an obligatory pint at the Magna Carta)
S
TU BURFOOT IS typical of many
are – or how much
Lincolnites. He’s lived in the city for much
evidence still remains of
DON’T MISS... ■ The
amazing views from Lincoln
Castle’s new Medieval Wall Walk (there’s a reason why it was voted the UK’s most popular castle in 2017 on TripAdvisor) ■A
walk round the Victorian
of his life, loves its history, and is often found
its Roman past. Our tour was
prison within the castle’s walls
walking the ancient cobbled streets at the top
an eye-opener, even for him, and proof (if it’s
■ Having
of Steep Hill or supping a pint in one of its many
needed) of how much can be learned when
pubs. We loved the group-friendly Magna
pubs. Stu’s such an aficionado when it comes
you see a city through the eyes of an expert.
Carta Pub (www.magnacartapub.co.uk),
Ivan Annibal, our guide for our morning tour,
to Lincoln’s past we joked that he’d be able to
a quick pint in the city’s historic
and the quirky, but definitely more snug
tell the guide a thing or two when he joined us
was a real treasure trove of information. He’s
for one of Hidden Lincoln’s walking tours. But
one of Hidden Lincoln’s team of experienced
(www.strugglers-lincoln.co.uk)
therein lies the rub. Even Stu wasn’t aware of
guides whose job it is to give tourists, and
■ For
quite how fascinating the city’s Roman links
locals, an insight into just how important a
www.hiddenlincoln.com
www.lincoln-christmasmarket.co.uk
4
...check out its top five attractions
1
mansion sits just outside Lincoln and groups are made hugely welcome, with exclusive guided tours of offer, even when the house is officially closed to the public. For more on
It dates back to 1072, has been ravaged
the house, its gardens and what’s on offer for
by fire through the centuries and partially
groups, see www.doddingtonhall.com
destroyed by an earthquake... Lincoln Cathedral has since its fair share of drama over the past 1,000 years and is now
iconic charter that changed the course of
one of the city’s most popular attractions.
history. See www.lincolncastle.com
2
LINCOLN CASTLE
DODDINGTON HALL & GARDENS
This privately owned, late Elizabethan
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL
See lincolncathedral.com
more on Hidden Lincoln’s tours see
mulled wine and Christmas gifts. See
VISIT LINCOLN
While in Lincoln...
feeling Strugglers pub on Westgate
3
LINCOLN CHRISTMAS MARKET
5
THE MUSEUM OF LINCOLNSHIRE LIFE
Housing a collection of varied exhibits that reflect and celebrate the culture of Lincolnshire and its people from 1750 to the present day, The Museum of Lincolnshire
December will see the return of Lincoln’s
Life is the county’s largest and most diverse
castle’s towers and dungeons as you tackle
hugely popular Lincoln Market, which weaves
community museums. It’s free to enter – see
the 360° wall walk, experience the imposing
its way around the historic streets of the
www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/heritage-and-
Victorian prison and chapel, and see the
city’s upper town. Hundreds of stalls sell
tourism/museum-of-lincolnshire-life
With three main attractions, explore the
GTW
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PIXABAY
Lights, camera, action... Travel writer Stuart Render takes a cinematic walking tour of the ‘City of Light’
A
see something different. They want to discover what I call the ‘real’ Paris.” Graduating from university in 2004 with a BA(Hons) in History, Abigail pursued a career in event and hospitality management. In 2012 the lure of the French capital was too great and she moved into a small flat on the Left Bank. In 2014, after researching
BIGAIL DE BRUYNE always dreamed
“I’ve always been passionate about Paris,”
the market and realising there really wasn’t
of living and working in Paris. As a
she says. “I think it’s the combination of the
much out there, the new business, offering
child, growing up in the UK and America, she
rich culture and remarkable history as well as
film-related walking tours, was born. The
remembers watching Gigi, the 1958 film set in
the icons, legends and heroes that have come
name of the business? With its focus on
Paris at the turn of the 20th century. While the
together to make Paris the dynamic city she is
film locations, what else but Set in Paris?
musical romance captured her attention, it was
today. I’ve always had an interest in film too, so
the precocious, carefree Gilberte ‘Gigi’, played
I started to develop the idea of a business that
TWO HOURS OF DISCOVERY
with much aplomb by Leslie Caron, to whom
would bring together Paris, film and history.
I’m sat in the little ‘Set in Paris’ office on the
Abigail found herself relating. Now, nearly 30
“When people visit Paris for the first
Quai de Tournelle on the banks of the River
years on, Abigail is living her dream, running Set
time they naturally want to see the main
Seine, just across the river from the imposing
in Paris, a tour company offering unique film
sights. But I find that visitors and groups
majesty of Notre Dame. The office doubles up
location-based walking tours of the capital.
on their second or third visit want to
both as the starting point for the walking tours
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Paris The tours take in the city’s best-known film locations
Abigail and fellow tour leader Antoine
Abigail de Bruyne is the founder of Set in Paris
and as a souvenir shop and small café. Our tour today is the ‘Center Stage Tour’, one of six tours currently available
when she was recovering from surgery
of this. He wrote a novel and used the
and couldn’t walk very far.
cathedral as the location. The popularity of
“We give you plenty of time,” she says.
the novel saved the building. The man was
to groups. Our guide is Antoine, an
“In total it’s about a mile and takes around
Victor Hugo, and the novel, and subsequent
enthusiastic Frenchman who speaks
two hours. It’s all on the level so we can
film, The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
English slowly and clearly, a trait sometimes
welcome groups of all ages and abilities. If
missing among tour guides, even in the
a group has a specific interest we’ll match
THE ULTIMATE FILM TOUR
UK! Antoine, like Abigail, also has a history
the guide to the group. If you’re a family and
On our tour we see film locations for The
major. I learn that the majority of the 10
wanting your own tour, we can arrange it.”
Devil Wears Prada, Interview with a Vampire,
or so guides that Abigail can call upon to
Our route takes us through the Left Bank,
The Monuments Men, The Day of the Jackal,
with a stop at Shakespeare and Company, the
Amélie, A Werewolf in Paris, Marie Antoinette
English bookshop made famous in Midnight
and Sex & the City. There are many more.
area where we watch a short video featuring
in Paris, and Julie and Julia. Crossing over the
Actually, it’s hard to keep track. However,
amusing clips of film stars endeavouring
Seine we arrive in front of Notre Dame.
Abigail has thought of this and everyone who
lead tours have a similar qualification. At the rear of the office is a little seating
to speak French. Hugh Lawrie, Gwyneth
Antoine reveals that during the Revolution,
books receives an email with a map showing
Paltrow and Jodie Foster do well. It would
the cathedral had been used as a saltpetre
which film locations you visited, and if you
be rude to embarrass those who don’t. But
plant. By the 19th century it had suffered so
wandered off-route, like I did, which ones you
it gets everyone laughing and soon we’re
much neglect that builders wanted to reuse
didn’t. It’s a nice touch.
hitting the pavements of the Left Bank.
its stones for bridge construction. However,
The route was designed by Abigail
one particular gentleman was having none
“We have six different tours,” explains Abigail. “We can show you Montmartre, FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Paris
See where Sex in the City was filmed
or focus specifically on Sex & the City, the
We’re also flexible. If needed, we’ll jump
2008 American romantic comedy. We have
on the coach and do a driving tour. We
a tour that allows groups to experience
suggest adding us in to a menu of things
the refinement and sophistication of
to do in Paris. We’re a small company, so
Coco Chanel, even having a tour guide
we can be more personal. The Paris you
who looks and dresses in character.
get to see with us is the Paris we love!”
“We really tailor each tour to the group and
Set in Paris give a unique twist to the usual city tours
Abigail and her team have a passion,
what they want to see. You get the behind
not only for Paris, but for giving groups a
the scenes info, but you also discover more
memorable experience. If you’re looking
about Paris in general. It’s all fascinating,
for something different in the ‘City of
and most definitely not just for film buffs.
Light’, it’s a tour well worth considering.
GET ME THERE: ■ Find
out more about Set in Paris
at www.setinparis.com ■ The
group rate is 20 euros per
person for groups of 15 or more (rates for smaller groups on request) ■ Our
travel to Paris was with
Eurostar and organised through Voyages SNCF. Fares from London to Paris start from £58 standard class return per person. Voyages SNCF has special rates for groups of 10 or Abigail’s routes take groups to Paris’ best-known spots
more, call 0844 848 5848
GTW
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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 FP 051_GTW_JULY'17.indd 51 FP Template.indd Template.indd 51 19
23/02/2017 09:10 02/11/2017 12:11 30/06/2017 06/02/2018 17:33 09:28
Wicked ways Wicked, the West End musical phenomenon that tells the untold story of the Witches of Oz, has announce its 24th extension – with 500,000 new tickets released for performances until December 1, 2018. Find out more at www.WickedTheMusical.co.uk
WEIGHT WATCHERS
Kay Mellor’s new musical Fat Friends, starring
MATT CROCKETT
Fat Friends’ bite-sized tour
For the best ticket prices to West End shows see grouptraveloffers. com
Best known for being an award-winning
Atomic Kitten’s Natasha Hamilton and Kevin
TV drama following the lives of a group
The Royal Shakespeare Company has
Kennedy of Coronation Street fame, continues
of overweight friends as they struggle with
announced its multi award-winning
its 2018 UK tour, heading to Milton Keynes,
the absurdities of modern dieting, Fat Friends
production of Matilda The Musical
Norwich, Manchester, Nottingham,
has been adapted for the stage by its
will embark on its first ever UK and
Birmingham, Dartford, Edinburgh, Cardiff,
much-loved creator, Kay.
Ireland tour in 2018-2019. See
Glasgow, Bradford and Aberdeen, before its run ends at Blackpool Winter Gardens in June.
For full show listings and dates, see
www.matildathemusical.com
www.fatfriendsthemusical.com
HEELING POWER
That’s shoe business Kinky Boots – winner of every major ‘best musical’ award – will embark on a UK tour from autumn 2018, opening at the Royal & Derngate Theatre in Northampton on September 19. Further tours dates include the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre (October 16-27); Newcastle Theatre Royal (October 29 to November 10); Manchester Opera House (November 12 to December 1) and the Edinburgh 2019). For a full list of tour dates see www. kinkybootsthemusical.co.uk/uk-tour
MATT CROCKETT
Playhouse (December 10 to January 5,
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Theatre news A party like no other
Katherine Kingsley stars as Dusty
Full casting has now been announced for Harold Pinter’s The Birthday Party. Peter Wight and Tom Vaughan-Lawlor will join the previously announced Toby Jones, Stephen Mangan, Zoë Wanamaker and Pearl Mackie for this major revival directed by Ian Rickson. The production will run at the Harold Pinter Theatre until April 14, 2018. Find out more at TheBirthdayParty.London
HELEN MAYBANKS
A Dylan classic
Bob Dylan and Conor McPherson’s Girl From the North Country has transferred to the West End, following a sell-out, critically acclaimed run at The Old Vic.
Classic Dusty
The show will run at the Noël Coward Theatre until March 24,
Dusty, the new musical based on the
nominated writer Jonathan Harvey, Dusty
2018. Find out more at www.
authorised biography of Dusty Springfield,
will be directed by Olivier Award-winner
girlfromthenorthcountry.london
will have its world premiere at Theatre Royal
Maria Friedman and star Katherine Kingsley.
Bath in June 2018 before touring the UK
The musical will feature many of Dusty’s
– with dates at The Lyceum in Sheffield,
soulful hits, including I Only Want to Be
the Newcastle Theatre Royal and The Lowry
with You, Son of a Preacher Man and You
in Salford.
Don’t Have to Say You Love Me. For full tour
With a script by BAFTA and Olivier
dates see DustySpringfieldMusical.com
The sky’s the limit The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre has announced details of its 2018 season, which includes Peter Pan, As You Like It, Dinosaur World Live, Little Shop of Horrors, and The Turn of the Screw, a coproduction with English National Opera. The season opens with Peter Pan (from May 17 to June 15) – a revival of the theatre’s 2015 Olivier Award-nominated production. For the wounded soldiers of the First World War, imagination is their only escape, yet as they’re transported to the fantastical lagoons and pirate ships of Never Land, allegories of the war they’ve left behind are ever present. Visit www.openairtheatre.com/ SIMON TURTLE
membership to find out more.
Some Mothers...
Joe Pasquale will star as the loveable
Sarah Earnshaw will play his long-
but accident-prone Frank Spencer in
suffering wife Betty, and Susie Blake his
Making waves
the first ever stage production of the
disapproving mother-in-law, Mrs Fisher.
Jez Butterworth’s The Ferryman, directed by
classic 1970s TV comedy, Some Mothers
The tour opens at the Wyvern Theatre in
Sam Mendes, will extend its run at London’s
Do ‘Ave ‘Em, when its UK tour launches
Swindon on February 21. For full tour dates,
Gielgud Theatre for a second time. The
this month.
see www.somemothersdoaveem.com
production is now booking until May 19, 2018, see www.TheFerrymanPlay.com
GTW
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Into the Sunset...
compelling story of romance and obsession, vanity and power. The musical, with Don Black and Christopher Hampton’s book and lyrics, was first staged in 1993. The Curve
A fresh new version of a West End classic is currently touring the UK. Sue Parslow went to see Sunset Boulevard as it opened at Leicester’s Curve Theatre
Theatre’s Artistic Director Nikolai Foster
Photos: Manuel Harlen
silent screen goddess Norma Desmond
T
has directed this updated production and a full orchestra performs the trademark Lloyd Webber score, which won a Tony Award. The setting is 1940s Hollywood, contrasting the buzz of the movie industry with the decrepit mansion of the faded (Ria Jones). Out of work writer Joe Gillis
V STAR DANNY Mac may be drawing
the sight of his tanned and toned body in a
(Danny Mac), accidentally stumbles into her
the crowds with his suave good looks as
couple of scenes – and proves himself more
reclusive world while on the run from debt
Sunset Boulevard tours the UK, but the star
than capable in the singing department too.
collectors and is quick to turn his discovery
of this show is actress and singer Ria Jones,
Sunset Boulevard is based on American
of the tragic figure to his advantage.
who brings an assured, classy presence to the
filmmaker Billy Wilder’s legendary 1950
musical. Though Danny certainly wows the
film of the same name that made a powerful
movie script in the belief that it’ll put her
Norma persuades Joe to work on her
audience with his dance moves – as well as
dig at the movie industry of its time. It’s a
back in front of the cameras. Seduced by her
70 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Theatre review Lights, camera, action on the Hollywood-themed set
Joe Gillis (Danny Mac) and Betty Schaefer (Molly Lynch)
Find out more at uktour. sunsetboulevard themusical.com
wealth, Joe becomes entrapped until his love
One Look’, her first big number, was rewarded
for Betty, a woman his own age, leads him
with whoops of approval, and the Leicester
to break free, with dramatic consequences!
audience took to its feet for a standing
THE SHOW BELONGS TO RIA
ovation as the performance came to a close.
The storyline is rather dark, beginning with
A WORLD-CLASS SET
Joe’s mysterious death, which he goes on to
The set design is original and ever
explain as the narrator. It offers Ria in particular
transforming. Norma’s home is dark and
the opportunity to show her strength as an
brooding. Candelabra and a staircase worthy of
actress. The sight of her dramatic silent movie
The Phantom of the Opera provide a perfect
star eyes will stay in your memory!
platform for diva entrances and show stopping
It seems this role truly belongs to Ria. She was the first to sing the role of Norma
Ria Jones is the true star of the show as Norma Desmond
songs. There’s a variation in speed, with zippy scene
Danny doesn’t appear to have indulged in too many doughnuts of late!
when Andrew Lloyd Webber ‘road-tested’
changes and upbeat song and dance routines,
Sunset Boulevard back in 1991. Last year, as
as well as slow reflective scenes. The standard
Molly Lynch, who plays Betty Schaefer, Joe’s
understudy, she took to the stage to replace
of set design and lighting is as you might
writing companion, was outstanding in her role.
Glenn Close at the London Coliseum when the
expect for a West End standard production.
American actress became unwell. And now, as
The main car chase scene is cleverly staged
and Danny in this superb musical as it travels
the character Norma Desmond herself would
and I particularly liked the cinematic backdrop
the country’s top regional theatres, performing
say, “This time she’s staying for good!” ‘With
for a café scene. I also thought that actress
in 21 venues until April 2018.
There are plenty of opportunities to see Ria
GTW
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Hit show STOMP is playing at the Ambassadors Theatre
LONDON
Theatre YOUR TRIP TO THE WEST END STARTS HERE – VISIT OUR SITE GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM FOR THE BEST TICKET PRICES ALADDIN
Prince Edward Theatre Booking to: April 2018 Times: Mon-Sat 19:30; Thurs & Sat 14:30
14.00 & Part Two 19:30; Thurs
Cambridge Theatre
Part One 19:30; Fri Part Two
SCHOOL OF ROCK
Booking to: February 2019
19:30; Sun Part One 13.00,
Times: Tues 19:00; Weds-Sat
New London Theatre
Part Two 18:30
19:30; Weds & Sat 14:30hrs,
KINKY BOOTS
Sun 15:00
MOTOWN THE MUSICAL
THE BOOK OF MORMON
Adelphi Theatre Booking to: September 2018
Shaftesbury Theatre
Booking to: March 2018
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Booking to: January 2019
Weds & Sat 14:30
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Prince of Wales Theatre Times: Mon-Sat 19:30, Weds & Sat 14:30
LES MISÉRABLES
Thurs & Sat: 15:00
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
THE COMEDY ABOUT A BANK ROBBERY
Queen’s Theatre
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Her Majesty’s Theatre
Booking to: April 2018
Weds & Sat 14:30
Booking to: March 2018
Criterion Theatre
Times: Tues-Sat 19:30; Sat
Booking to: October 2018
14:30; Sun 15.00 & 19.00
THE LION KING
DREAMGIRLS
Booking to: May 2018
Booking to: June 2018
Weds, Sat & Sun 14:30
Savoy Theatre
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30; Weds & Sat 14:30
HARRY POTTER & THE CURSED CHILD (parts 1 & 2) Palace Theatre
Booking to: November 2018 Times: Weds & Sat Part One
Lyceum Theatre
Times: Tues-Sat 19:30,
MAMMA MIA!
Novello Theatre Booking to: October 2018 Times: Mon-Sat 19:45; Thurs & Sat 15:00
MATILDA – THE MUSICAL
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30; Thurs & Sat 14:30
Booking to: January 2019 Times: Mon-Sat 19:30, Thurs & Sat 14:30; Sun 15:00
STOMP Ambassadors Theatre Booking to: April 2018 Times: Mon, Thurs, Fri & Sat 20.00; Sun 18.00; Thurs, Sat & Sun 15.00
THRILLER LIVE Lyric Theatre Booking to: September 2018 Times: Tues-Fri 19:30; Sat 16:00 & 20.00; Sun 15:30 & 19:30
THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
WICKED
Booking to: September 2018
Booking to: December 2018
Duchess Theatre
Times: Tue-Sat 19:30; Sat
Apollo Victoria Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
14:30; Sun 15:00 & 19:00
Weds & Sat 14:30
42ND STREET
THE WOMAN IN BLACK
Theatre Royal
Fortune Theatre
Booking to: December 2018
Booking to: January 2019
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Times: Mon-Sat 20:00;
Weds & Sat 14:30
Tues & Thurs 15:00; Sat 16.00
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Touring theatre THE UK’S BEST MUSICALS AND SHOWS HAVE HIT THE ROAD. CATCH THEM ON TOUR HERE... Hairspray is on tour
HAIRSPRAY
SHREK THE MUSICAL
JERSEY BOYS
Inverness Eden Court: February 5-10
Sunderland Empire: Until February 11
Stoke Regent Theatre: February 6-17
Nottingham Theatre Royal: February 12-24
Birmingham New Alexandra Theatre: February 14-25
Hull New Theatre: February 20 - March 3
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre: February 26 - March 3
Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre: February 28 - March 11
Bristol Hippodrome: March 5-10
Northampton Royal & Derngate: March 14-25
Edinburgh Playhouse: March 12-17
Sheffield Lyceum Theatre: March 28 - April 8
Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre: March 19-24 Manchester Opera House: March 26 - April 7 Milton Keynes Theatre: April 9-14 Liverpool Empire Theatre: April 16-21 Hull New Theatre: April 23-28 Venue Cymru Llandudno: April 30 - May 5 Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: May 8-12
Cardiff Wales Millennium Centre: April 10-22 Stoke Regent Theatre: May 2-13
Sunderland Empire: March 20-31 Glasgow King’s Theatre: April 3-14
Plymouth Theatre Royal: May 15-26 Northampton Royal & Derngate: May 29 - June 9 Nottingham Theatre Royal: June 12-23 Glasgow King’s Theatre: June 26 - July 7
THE BAND
Edinburgh Playhouse: July 10 - July 14
Norwich Theatre Royal: February 6-17
MISS SAIGON
Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: February 20 - March 3
Southampton Mayflower: February 21 - March 17
Hull New Theatre: March 6-17
Manchester Palace Theatre: March 21 - May 12
Blackpool Winter Gardens: May 15-27
Leeds Grand Theatre: March 20-31
Woking New Victoria Theatre: May 30 - June 10
Newcastle Theatre Royal: April 3-14
Liverpool Empire: June 12-24
Bristol Hippodrome: April 17-28
Plymouth Theatre Royal: July 4 - August 4
Birmingham Hippodrome: May 1-12
Norwich Theatre Royal: August 15 - September 15
Canterbury Marlowe Theatre: July 11-22 Milton Keynes Theatre: July 25 - August 5
Bristol Hippodrome: May 16 - June 23
Bristol Hippodrome: August 8-19
The Sister Act Live Choir Show is now touring at cinemas across
Wycombe Swan: May 21-26
Llandudno Venue Cymru: August 21 - September 2
35-piece gospel choir and band accompanies the on-screen nuns
Cheltenham Everyman Theatre: May 29 - June 3
Leeds Grand Theatre: December 18 - January 6, 2019
www.sisteractlivechoir.co.uk
Southend Cliffs Pavilion: May 14-19
the UK. See the film like never before, on a huge screen while a live as they sing hit songs from the film. For a full list of dates see
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Discover the wonder of Waxy O’Connor’s... Group Rates & Set Menus available Large Seating Capacity Private Dining Areas
02074780767 saleslondon@waxyoconnors.co.uk 14-16 rupert street, london, w1d 6dd www.waxyoconnors.co.uk/london
Living Li i the h nation’s i ’ hi history since i 1348
◆ Cemetery
◆ Groups welcome
◆ Monastery
◆ Free museum
◆ Royal refuge
◆ Daily guided tours
◆ Mansion
◆ Gift Shop
◆ Great charity
◆ Thackeray’s Coffee House Visit the Charterhouse and steep yourself in six centuries of history “A tranquil oasis in the heart of London” “Everything a real gem”
The Charterhouse, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6AN www.thecharterhouse.org
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Telephone: 020 3818 8873
Email: tours@thecharterhouse.org
06/02/2018 08:12
VISIT ENGLAND/DIANA JARVIS
The inside story See London like never before with our pick of the best guided tours Words: Jade Milnthorpe
THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT Explore the world-famous Houses of Parliament on a special guided tour – available
Scariest Attraction’ accolade for nine years in
behind the scenes in the Broadcast Centre.
a row, the tombs are not for the faint-hearted!
Visit areas normally reserved for the players
There’s discounted entry for groups, see
and media, and experience the views from the
www.thelondonbridgeexperience.com
members’ balcony before finishing your visit in Centre Court. See www.wimbledon.com
for both groups and families – with the added
LONDON BY NIGHT
option of afternoon tea or a self-guided
As night falls, let the London by Night tour
THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL
audio tour. You’ll find all the details online at
reveal the splendour of the city’s landmarks.
Travel through history, incredible architecture
www.parliament.uk/visiting/visiting-
This extensive tour will include the most
and legendary performances at the iconic
and-tours/tours-of-parliament
distinguished and vibrant areas of this
THE LONDON BRIDGE EXPERIENCE With two attractions in one, The London Bridge Experience brings together history
world-famous capital, including Parliament Square, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and the financial district of the City. See www.londonnighttour.com
London’s spooky history in an immersive
WIMBLEDON LAWN TENNIS MUSEUM
theatrical show, and re-live the past as you
Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum’s award-
venture through London’s historic streets –
winning ‘behind-the-scenes’ tours are the ideal
then head down to London’s tombs under
way to see this world-famous ground. Discover
London Bridge Station. Winner of ‘The UK’s
how the site is cared for and what goes on
and horror, education and fun. Learn about
The awardwinning London Bridge Experience
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Days out
THE CHARTERHOUSE It’s been living the nation’s history since 1348, serving as a monastery, private mansion, boys’ school and an almshouse, which it remains to this day... Discover more about London’s The Charterhouse with a behind the scenes tour led by one of the resident Brothers. New for 2018 is the 75-minute ‘Crossrail and the Charterhouse’ tour, which reveals the medieval history of the site and recent Crossrail excavations, taken by expert Julie Chandler (the tour costs £20 each). See www.thecharterhouse.org
Royal Albert Hall. Take a behind the scenes
will transport visitors back in time to the court
CHIGWELL TOURS
tour to gain access to parts of the hall that are
of Henry VIII, expect grand displays of food,
Ideals for families, groups and foreign visitors
usually off limits, providing a rare insight into
feel the heat of the fireplaces, and sample
to the UK, Chigwell Tours offer a customised
how the show, hospitality and technical teams
the bustling sound of the busy sergeants and
day out, from a historical London trail walk
come together to stage hundreds of events
their staff who operated the kitchens. Summer
to a Bombay Sapphire Gin factory tour
every year. See www.royalalberthall.com
2018 also introduces a new ‘Imprisonment
and special cocktail masterclass. Find out more
at the tower’ tour where Historic Royal
at www.chigwelltours.co.uk
THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MUSEUM
Palaces will be re-presenting the bloody and Beauchamp Towers, associated with the
BIG BUS TOURS
Experience first-hand accounts of the
imprisonment (and possible murder) of the
Hop on, hop off and explore with Big Bus
troopers’ rigorous and demanding training
Princes in the Tower. Discounts are available for
Tours. As the largest operator of open-top
at The Household Cavalry Museum, with
groups of 15 or more. See hrp.org.uk
bus sightseeing tours in the world, there’s a
interactive displays and stunning rare objects
bus every 10-30 minutes, so you can hop
– many on public display for the first time.
THE BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM
Groups of eight or more get a 10% discount,
Visit the Bank of England Museum and explore
and rejoin the tour whenever you’re ready.
see www.householdcavalrymuseum.co.uk
its unique collections of coins, banknotes and
Capture all the best sights London has to offer
artefacts. Following a period of renovation,
visitors, including Big Ben, the London Eye,
new displays and exhibits have been added to
Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace. View
From May 2018, Historic Royal Palaces
the galleries. Free talks and presentations are
the range of tours on offer and save 10%
introduces Hampton Court Palace’s Tudor
on offer to groups of between 15 and 50.
when you pre-book online by visiting
kitchens. A new sensory experience, which
See www.bankofengland.co.uk
www.bigbustours.com
HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES
off at famous landmarks and attractions
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Days out
of the
FIVE best
DAYS OUT FOR FAMILIES & GROUPS
Why now is the time to shop, explore, fly through the air – and then take to the water
The Labels Shopping Outlet Centre boasts views over the beautiful Wye Valley in Herefordshire Right: The McArthurGlen Designer Outlet centre in Cheshire Oaks
1
Hunt for bargains
Indulge in a spot of retail therapy
heavily discounted prices. Special discounts and exclusive freebies are often available for pre-booked groups, such as a McArthurGlen’s
Find out more...
Dab hand at spotting a bargain?
Clarks Village in Somerset,
fashion passport, which offers a
■ www.boundarymill.co.uk
Then feast your eyes on the
the Lowry Outlet in Salford,
10% discount, or Boundary Mill’s
■ www.labelsshopping.co.uk
nationwide chain of hugely group-
The Galleria in Hatfield or the
added attraction of combining a
■ www.clarksvillage.co.uk
friendly Boundary Mill Stores,
McArthurGlen Designer Outlets
great day’s shopping with a scenic
■ www.mcarthurglen.com
the fantastic Labels Shopping
(at various locations nationwide),
tour, canal cruise or visit to a
■ www.lowryoutlet.co.uk
Outlet Centre in Herefordshire,
to find top brand names at
historic building.
■ www.thegalleria.co.uk
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AWARD WINNING GROUP DINING
FOR ALL YOUR LONDON GROUPS
Opening 2018 ddaymuseum.co.uk mvs@portsmouthcc.gov.uk 023 9283 4737
The personal made epic.
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Photograph © IWM (A 19470)
The epic made personal. 020 7024 8455
salesuk@planethollywoodintl.com planethollywoodlondon.com 57-60 Haymarket SW1Y 4QX
06/02/2018 09:23
Days out
2 Put the ‘theme’ into ‘park’ Fun for all the family
Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Chessington World of Adventures in Greater London, Flambards in Cornwall, and Drayton Manor and Alton Towers in Staffordshire are among the many group-friendly theme parks offering nerveshattering rides, roller coasters and themed areas, such as Thomas Land at Drayton. This year sees a big new extension being opened at the world’s first ever Peppa Pig World at Paultons Family Theme Park in Hampshire. It will offer new rides, including the Queen’s Flying Coach Ride and Grumpy Rabbit’s Sailing Club.
Find out more... ■ www.blackpoolpleasure
beach.com ■ www.chessington.com ■ www.flambards.co.uk ■ www.draytonmanor.co.uk ■ www.altontowers.com ■ www.peppapigworld.co.uk
Diggerland is a theme park with a twist, where you can ride and use real diggers to move soil, join the Diggerland Safari, try the Diggerland dodgems and more. With four sites in Kent, Devon, Durham and Yorkshire, see www. diggerland.com
Drayton Manor’s dinosaur walk – as sampled by editor Helen’s daughter Georgie!
3 Build an empire Where Lego comes to life
At Legoland Windsor Resort in Berkshire, Ninjago World is proving ever-popular, offering interactive activities to test participants’ balance, agility, speed and creativity. Once the Ninjago character scenes have been completed, visitors can experience the first ever 4D Ride allowing them to really feel what it’s like to throw fire balls, shock waves, ice and lightening using nothing but their hands in a battle against snake tribes, skeleton ghosts and ultimately a giant serpent known as The Great Devourer. Then there are the countless Lego models to admire throughout the park, including two five foot tall guardian Dragons, many other exciting rides to enjoy, plus areas like Drench Towers and Castaway Camp.
Legoland Windsor Resort’s Ninjago World
Find out more... ■ www.legoland.co.uk
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ORDER, ORDER
Come and take a fresh look
020 7219 4114 ENJOY A HERITAGE TRAIN RIDE THROUGH THE DEE VALLEY
WHERE WILL YOU GO TODAY?
www.llangollen-railway.co.uk Llan Ad 210x148.5.indd 2
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06/02/2018 08:14
Days out
4 Feel the need for speed Fly like a bird, then take to the water
ZipWorld in Snowdonia is
to bounce and slide through
home to the world’s fastest zip
the tree tops via an unusual
wire, as well as the Skyride and
nets adventure complete with
the UK’s only alpine coaster
tree top trampolines, netted
(based on the concept of a
walkways and enchanted tree
traditional tobaggan, it runs
houses. For a slower journey
on rails as it whips, weaves
through the forest, visitors
and darts around trees).
can discover the delights of
While down in Cardiff, the
being off road using all-terrain,
International White Water
self-balancing electric segways.
Centre offers white water rafting (as its name suggests),
Find out more...
as well as river boarding,
■ www.zipworld.co.uk
gorge walking and air trails.
■ www.clww.com
Go Ape now has 31 sites
■ www.goape.co.uk
across the UK where several hours of action packed adventure amid the forest canopy are guaranteed. Take to the trees at Go Ape, which has 31 sites nationwide
It’s even possible to try
5 Spread the floral joy Flex those green fingers
Garden centres offer a fantastic
and Wentworth Gardens in
opportunity to gain inspiration,
Rotherham where the formal
buy plants and enjoy afternoon
Italian garden and canal pond
tea, and typical of these
have been completely renovated.
Take a horse drawn trip along the Llangollen Canal and the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct (now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Similar trips can be enjoyed along the Kennet & Oxford Canal. See www. horsedrawnnarrowboats.co.uk and www.kennet-horse -boat.co.uk
centres is Waterperry near Oxford. Home to eight acres
Find out more...
of beautifully landscaped,
■ www.waterperrygardens.
tranquil gardens complete with
co.uk
guided tours, there’s a quality
■ www.wyevalegardencentress.
plant centre, garden shop,
co.uk/stores/bridgemere
museum and tea shop on site.
■ www.thebressingham
There are many other sites
gardens.com and www.
worth considering around
wyevalegardencentres.
the UK, such as Bridgemere
co.uk/stores/bressingham
Garden World in Cheshire,
■ www.wentworthgarden
Bressingham Gardens in Norfolk
centre.co.uk
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Look online for
Exclusive Offers
s and Event for Groups
EXCLUSIV E Pop Badg e and Explorer Pack per child
2 Tickets available for your pre-visit checks
Ride Priority Wristbands!
Choice of 3 rides between 10-11am* *visit website for more details
BOOK NOW! by calling
LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configuration, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2018 The LEGO Group. SP1919
0871 4232 2 70
1919_LLW_Groups Advert.indd 1 FP Template.indd 83
For more information visit
www.LEGOLAND.co.uk /plan /groupsoffer or Email group.enquiries@LEGOLAND.co.uk 28/11/2017 07:50 16:39 06/02/2018
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Days out
With a group- and family-friendly menu, offering a fantastic seafood and American menu – all served in a Forrest-Gumpthemed setting – check out Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. For all the latest offers see bubbagump.com
Make a meal of it
Day trip to London planned? Here’s our pick of the city’s best family and group-friendly restaurants
Planet Hollywood is officially
inspired menu. There’s a buzz
Enjoy freshly prepared
the best group dining
about the place thanks to
American entrées and classic
restaurant in London... and
18 screens throughout the
flavours at London’s Hard
about groups, with guests
it has the awards to prove it!
restaurant showing movie clips
Rock Cafe – a winner of Group
greeted by the sights and sounds
and trailers, pop videos and
Travel World’s best group-friendly
of the Amazon rainforest, as
the chain owes its theme to the
‘shout out’ messages that create
restaurant award. One of the
a tropical rainstorm thunders
glamour of the movies, and was
a buzz to enhance your dining
fascinating things about the
overhead and elephants and
backed by movie stars Sylvester
experience. After you’ve eaten,
Cafe is that you can take a tour
gorillas look on... Steaks,
Stallone, Bruce Willis, Arnold
don’t forget to pop into the
of its Vault. Not only is it a rock
seafood, pasta and burgers
Schwarzenegger and Demi Moore.
shop for some branded clothing
‘n’ roll museum, where you can
are all on offer, and there’s
accessories as a souvenir.
see Jimi Hendrix’s prototype
a tasty children’s menu. See
Launched in New York in 1991,
The only UK branch is in London’s Haymarket, where
Find out more at www.
groups of between 10 and 200
planethollywood
can dine from the Hollywood-
london.com
Flying V guitar, the
therainforestcafe.co.uk
Ming Dynasty chair owned by Freddie
If the London tourism scene
Mercury, and
has given you an appetite,
Madonna’s Jean
enjoy a full-on Medieval
Paul Gaultier
Banquet. Just a two-minute
basque from her
walk from Tower Bridge, based
Vogue video, but
in the historic St Katharine Docks, you can enjoy a four-course
the Vault itself is
feast with ale and wine brought
special. It was the Queen’s vault, and where
to your table. Get dressed up
Diana Spencer’s wedding dress
in medieval costume (only if
was kept before her wedding.
you fancy it...), it’s a unique
Visit www.hardrock.com
chance to eat, drink, sing, dance and party like it’s the
The GTW award-winning
Middle Ages. Visit www.
Rainforest Cafe is just wild
medievalbanquet.com
GTW
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GTW Awards
On winning form Our Group Travel World Awards celebrate the attractions, hotels and restaurants that go the extra mile to make groups feel welcome. So drum roll please as we announce this month’s winners... See London Bridge like never before
The swish Hampton Manor Hotel BEST HOTEL
Hampton Manor It dates back to 1066, with a history as rich as the culinary delights it
BEST ATTRACTION
The London Bridge Experience
To nominate a hotel, attraction or restaurant for our 2018 awards, email helen.milbank@ grouptravelworld. com
has on offer today... Hampton Manor, just a short drive from Birmingham, mixes heritage with everything you’d expect from a highend hotel – and fine food and drink is very much at the centre of its ethos. Best known for its Michelin Star, four
AA Rosette restaurant, Peels (so-called
If you’ve read our ‘Top London tours’ feature
underground tour of London’s tombs,
on page 76 you’ll already be familiar with the
which sit under London Bridge Station.
as the Manor was built for Sir Robert Peel’s
scary goings-on at the fantastic London Bridge
GTW’s Paige Fraser and Harley Denham
son, Robert), GTW’s editor Helen stayed
Experience. Winner of ‘The UK’s Scariest
visited just before Christmas and loved it.
there last autumn and was blown away by
Attraction’ accolade, it is two attractions in
Paige screamed... a lot! Find out more at
the top-notch service and fantastic food. See
one – an immersive theatrical show and an
www.thelondonbridgeexperience.com
hamptonmanor.com
BEST RESTAURANT
Planet Hollywood We’re big fans of Planet Hollywood here at GTW (read more about it on page 85). It’s big on glamour, having been launched in New York in 1991 by the likes of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore; big on fun, with a real buzz about the place; and big on making groups and families welcome. The only UK branch is in London’s Haymarket, where groups of between 10 and 200 can dine from the Hollywoodinspired menu. Find out more at www. planethollywoodlondon.com
GTW
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The British Tourism & Travel Show The show returns to the NEC from March 21-22
It’s back! Register now for next month’s British Tourism & Travel Show, and read on for a glimpse of what’s in store...
T
HE BRITISH TOURISM & Travel Show
preparing to showcase their latest attractions,
returns to the NEC Birmingham on March
tour and corporate packages include World
21-22, offering even more inspiration and
of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Manchester
ideas for group travel organisers to explore.
City Football Club, Action Tours Limited,
The show is back with an eclectic menu
Up at the O2, Lake District Estates, Poole
of exhibitors for 2018. And its 2,600-plus
Attractions Group, York’s Chocolate Street,
visitors, including some of the UK and Ireland’s
River Escapes, Cotswolds Tourism, The Royal
most active group travel organisers, will be
Mint, Visit Hull & East Yorkshire, The Phoenix
able to meet more than 250 leading visitor
Artist Club, The Emmerdale Village Tour,
GROUP TRAVEL ORGANISER DAY
attractions, venues, destinations, hotels,
The Canterbury Tales, Roadchef Motorways,
A nationally recognised event that shines
transport providers, associations and DMOs.
Berrys Coaches (Taunton) Limited, Riviera
a light on the people who work tirelessly to
The show will once again be welcoming
Bournemouth, Enjoy Tees Valley, Marriott
create exciting and engaging itineraries for
pavilions and exhibitors from Tourism Ireland,
Hotels, London Stadium, and Chester Zoo.
the groups they serve, Group Travel Organiser
Visit Wales and Visit Scotland, representing
TOP-NOTCH LINE-UP
breadth of the
Journalist and Countryfile presenter John
It offers visiting group travel organisers
British Isles. Big
Craven OBE is set to deliver an exclusive
free parking and free coach transfers* to the
name brands
headline Keynote at the show. An advocate
NEC from selected departure destinations
of rural England, Craven will be sharing his
(in conjunction with Steve Reed Tourism),
insight and extensive knowledge of the UK
a free meeting planner, as well as a range
countryside in his session taking place on
of dedicated seminars. Highlights of the
Sign up now!
John Craven is a Keynote speaker
Day takes place on the second day of the
the length and
Register for free entry at www. tourismshow .co.uk.
show (March 22).
Thursday March 22 at 1pm. Other speakers
day include the Association of Group Travel
to join the line-up include Google’s industry
Organisers’ panel session, kicking off the day
head of travel, Ruairidh Roberts; Merlin
with a lively debate into current issues and
Entertainments’ director of innovation,
challenges effecting GTOs.
Justin East; Andy Headington, CEO of digital
*To apply for free parking and transfers,
marketing agency Adido; and Max Sinclair,
please email Ruth Ayahudin on rayahudin@
founder of Ecocompanion.
divcom.co.uk or call 01273 645147.
GTW
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Plan your route for
2018
London
Supplement
Bigger
Discounts
Guide to London - to request your free copy email emma.parkes@ grouptravelworld.com
Visit www.grouptraveloffers.com for discounted tickets to popular UK and European events
Exclusive trip
Access to
invitation
Travel Jobs
Subscribe
www.traveljobsworld.com
Group Travel Organisers plus a guest, test out the trip before taking your group
www.grouptravelworld. com/subscribe
online listing for jobs in travel
Visit us on stand A15 First 50 will receive a free gift!
Subscribe today Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com
BTTS18 Travel GBI ads Multiple Sizes.qxp_Half horizontal copy 19/01/2018 10:01 Visit Pagewww.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe 1
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ATTRACTIONS DESTINATIONS HOTELS
CREATE GREAT TRIPS & EXPERIENCES AT THE BRITISH TOURISM & TRAVEL SHOW
THE VERY BEST OF BRITAIN & IRELAND
New benefits for Group Travel Organisers: FREE Parking – on the 22 March ONLY – please contact Ruth on 01273 645147 to apply FREE Coach Transfers with Steve Reed Tourism from selected locations FREE Meeting Planner – ensuring you make the most from your day FREE celebrity speaker – John Craven from Countryfile will headline on the 22 March
For more information and to book your FREE ticket visit
WWW .TOURISMSHOW.CO.UK
QP Template.indd 89
QUOTE CODE BTTS119
06/02/2018 09:25
Time to play
ball 5
reasons why it pays to indulge your sporting ambitions on a short break in the UK or overseas
Words: Naomi MacKay
1
YOU CAN TEE OFF IN STYLE The MacKenzie Hotel Group gives golf
once you’ve have had enough of wielding a
you’d expect at the home of a world
club, you can cool off in the swimming pool,
championship competition.
work out in the gym, or change your game
The award-winning Potters Resort
and have a knockabout on the tennis court.
on the Norfolk coast has just hosted the
nuts the chance to tee off at courses in West
World Indoor Bowls Championships, and
Runton, Royal Cromer and Sheringham in
What’s in it for groups?
next year will mark the 20th anniversary
Norfolk, as well as Western Park in Norwich
n One
of the competition being held there.
and many more. And if anyone in the group
n There
doesn’t want to play golf, they can take
from, including the Norfolk Challenge, where
What’s in it for groups?
advantage of the sea views, award-winning
you play three courses over three days
n Discounts
beaches, countryside, walks and historic
n See
nA
properties on the doorstep.
seasonal-breaks/golf-breaks
Along with the joys of the golf course, holidaymakers can enjoy a wide menu choice offering locally sourced food, hand-picked wines and fully stocked bars, open 24 hours.
2
person goes free for every 12 are a number of golf breaks to choose
www.mackenziehotels.com/
YOU’LL BE BOWLED OVER Take a mid-week break at the home
on mid-week breaks
free place for every 21st guest
n Cashback
and free drinks on arrival
for the organiser, plus a basket of fruit and bottle of house wine n Big
groups of 84 or more get
of the World Indoor Bowls Championships
a free celebration pack
There’s also a sports bar and a resident golf
and you’ll be eligible to enter free bowls
n Potters’
pro to help you improve your game. And
tournaments using the first-class facilities
paperwork, and has the highest staff to guest
booking team will handle all your
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Activity breaks
of less-sporty craft activities, as well as pony trekking and cycling n See
4
www.manorhousehotel.co.uk
YOU CAN HAVE FUN IN THE SUN
Head to the Algarve for near-guaranteed sun on your next sporting break with Fairway Golf Group Holidays. The holidays are run in conjunction with Sean Coyle Golf Events, and players can take part in mixed competitions played in a fun and very friendly environment. Your host for the week is Sean Coyle, who takes care of everything from organising flights, golf, accommodation, transfers, car hire (optional), buggies, Powakaddys and restaurants. Non-golfers are welcome too, and can take advantage of all the beautiful Algarve has to offer while friends and partners are busy on the links. See airwaygolfgroupholidays.co.uk
ratio in the industry, resulting in great service n See
www.pottersholidays.
The Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel offers group-friendly residential golf breaks in Suffolk, taking advantage of the sandy, quick-drying soil, and some of the lowest rates of rainfall in the UK, to offer golfing breaks all year round. See www. thorpeness.co.uk
enjoy the spectacular views of Mirabello Bay, enjoy private golf lessons from a professional coach on the nine-hole course, then relax at the Six Senses Spa. Or maybe you’d like to join in with the complimentary yoga classes.
WHO’S THE CADDY? Fancy staying at a stately home and playing on a 7,107 yard golf course?
com/bowls-breaks
3
Alternatively, you could travel to Crete. At Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort you can
Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa
YOU CAN PLEASE EVERYONE
offer – and depending on your group size
(www.lutonhoo.co.uk) is a five-
Sometimes, not everyone in a group is
and the time of year, there’s free group
star country house hotel on the
feeling sporty, and that’s when it’s great to stay
coaching available. Badminton, short tennis
Hertfordshire/Bedfordshire border.
somewhere that offers a choice of activities.
and squash courts are also up for grabs.
The Par 73 course is a serious test
And the Manor House & Ashbury Hotel,
Bowls fans will find three indoor bowls halls.
for all levels of golfer, with four different
sitting on the foothills of Dartmoor National
You can play bowls, short mat bowls or target
tees to play from. The course dates
Park in Devon, is such a place.
bowls, with competitions run throughout the
back to the Victorian era and, as a listed
week – whatever your level of ability – with
course, has a unique absence of bunkers
and racket sports galore. You can practise
resident coaches available at no extra cost.
– instead challenging the golfer with
your game, run your own competition if
Finally, golfers can choose from seven 18-hole
a number of water obstacles instead.
you’re in a group, or get some coaching.
courses, and golf buggies are available to hire.
Packages for groups of 12 or more
For the sporty types, there are tennis
With two indoor courts at Ashbury
start from just £35 per person.
and six indoor and four outdoor courts
What’s in it for groups?
at the Manor, there’s plenty of space on
n The
attraction also offers a number FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Activity breaks ■ Seven-night
breaks are available
PIXABAY
What’s in it for groups?
Anyone for tennis?
from Health and Fitness Travel, see healthandfitnesstravel.com
5
YOU CAN BE A TENNIS HIT If tennis is the game for you, how about
serving up a tennis break at a stunning Cote d’Azur chateau? The Chateau Lou Casteou is the venue for a luxury residential Tennis Academy retreat. This five-day all-inclusive tennis event caters for up to 18 guests, on a luxury all-inclusive basis. All healthy and delicious meals, drinks and wines are included and served around the chateau’s heated infinity pool, in its
Where every level’s catered for...
historic cloisters or period reception rooms.
Organising a sporting weekend can be
opportunity to mix business with pleasure,
tricky if the level of skill varies widely.
with links to more than 70 tennis centres.
What’s in it for groups?
But Activeaway tennis breaks (see
■ Tennis
www.activeaway.com) have this problem
for companies at some of the biggest tennis
are held at a nearby club. Enjoy coaching each
sussed. Their breaks are for all standards,
events in the UK, including The Boodles
morning, matches each afternoon and a final
all levels, all ages and all abilities, so no-one
at Stoke Park. Alternatively, go for a
tournament followed by a celebratory dinner
needs to worry about being left out.
bespoke one, two or three night package
sessions, led by a Level 4 LTA coach
■ Non-playing
partners can relax by the heated
The company can arrange corporate
Corporate days out can also be arranged
to some of the world’s best tennis
swimming pool, or visit the Cote d’Azur’s
tennis days, or ‘tennis networking’ as they
tournaments, such as the Roland Garros,
local beaches and historic attractions
like to call it, which provides the perfect
Paris or the Rome Masters.
■ See
www.loucasteou.com
Enjoy views of Mirabello Bay at Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort in Crete
92 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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08/02/2018 21:02
Days out
IAN JONES
Plan your visit at www. royalcollection. org.uk
St George’s Chapel The Grand Reception Room
A Castle fit for a Queen Photos: Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2018
W
INDSOR CASTLE, THE oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world,
The Castle’s State Apartments are furnished with some of the finest works from
has been the family home of British kings
the Royal Collection, reflecting the changing
the skilled work carried out to restore the
and queens for almost 1,000 years, and
tastes of the Castle’s royal occupants,
Castle to its former glory.
is today one of the official residences of
particularly those of Charles II and George IV.
Her Majesty The Queen.
Groups will hear the dramatic story of the
Among the masterpieces on display are
battle to stop the flames and save works of
paintings by Holbein, Rubens and Van Dyck,
art from the Royal Collection, and will learn
offers a varied day out for visitors, including
Sèvres porcelain and exquisite English and
about the decisions made after the fire to
a visit to the magnificent State Apartments
French furniture. Many of the works of art are
rebuild some interiors to new designs and
and St George’s Chapel, and an opportunity
still in the historic settings for which they were
painstakingly return others to their original,
to see the tiny treasures of Queen Mary’s
first collected or commissioned by the kings
historic appearance.
Dolls’ House.
and queens who have lived at Windsor.
Occupying over 10.5 hectares, the Castle
From September to March, visitors can
The Queen’s Ballroom
The special visit begins with refreshments and an expert talk in the Castle’s Winchester
also walk through the sumptuous Semi-State
Tower, after which visitors can explore the
Apartments, which served as the private
State Apartments at their leisure with a
rooms of George IV in the 19th century.
multimedia tour and see the areas transformed
THE CASTLE AFTER THE FIRE
PETER SMITH
PETER SMITH
Discover Windsor Castle’s fascinating history on a special group tour
after the fire through award-winning restoration work.
In 2018 the extremely popular special visit
A coach park is located a 10-minute walk
Restoring Windsor: The Castle after the Fire
from Windsor Castle. Groups of 15 people or
will return for a second year, offering group
more receive a 10% discount on the price of
visitors a unique opportunity to learn more
admission, as well as a multimedia tour in nine
about the devastating fire of 1992 and
languages and a precincts tour in English.
GTW
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WINDSOR CASTLE
RESTORING WINDSOR: THE CASTLE AFTER THE FIRE
Back by popular demand, Restoring Windsor: The Castle after the Fire will return in 2018. This Special Visit combines a self-guided tour of the State Apartments with an expert talk on the devastating fire and the return to magnificence that followed. Groups will hear the dramatic story of the battle to stop the flames, save irreplaceable works of art from the Royal Collection, and the subsequent award-winning restoration project which saw some rooms redesigned while others were painstakingly returned to their original, historic appearance.
www.royalcollection.org.uk 030 3123 7321 FP Template.indd 95
06/02/2018 07:52
The joint is jumpin’ Helen Milbank grabs a bourbon with the talented cast of hit new musical Five Guys Named Moe
W
It’s upbeat and quirky (I’ve never conga’d across the stage at half time before!), but the biggest surprise is the seating plan. Gone
The show runs until the end of March, 2018, see www. fiveguysmusical. com
is the standard sit-infront-of-a-front-stage
RITTEN AND DIRECTED by actor
and drunkard Nomax (played by Edward
concept; instead the stage is circular,
Clarke Peters (who has achieved
Baruwa) has been busy drowning his sorrows
with jazz club-style tables in the centre
following his split from his girl.
and more seating in a horseshoe around
God-like status for fans, like me, of The Wire
Out of the blue pop Big Moe, Little Moe,
the outside. It means the actors come to
Five Guys Named Moe was always destined
Eat Moe, Know Moe and Four-Eyed Moe in a
you, stand sometimes just inches away,
for great things.
bid to straighten him out and help him sing and
and gives the feel you’re in a jazz bar rather
dance his way back to finding love. Cue a few
than a traditional theatre.
for his portrayal of Detective Lester Freamon),
Staged in the quirky pop-up Marble Arch Theatre – that’s akin to a plush, roomy ski
hits from king-of-jazz Louis Jordan, including Is
In short, it’s great fun and thoroughly
lodge – it whisks the audience back to New
You Or Ain’t You My Baby, Early in the Morning
recommended. You’ll never head off for
Orleans circa the 1940s, as the single, broke
and Saturday Night Fish Fry.
interval drinks in such style ever again!
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GTW news HELEN MAYBANKS
Nomax (seated) gets a visit from the Moes
See the (candle) light GTW’s Emma Parkes and Emily Dougall
facts. Did you know, for example, that a
headed to Peterborough Cathedral in
grave digger by the name of Old Scarlett is
Cambridgeshire recently to see out 2017
something of a local folk hero, having buried
in style on a special candle-lit tour. Giving
both queens in the cathedral. We also got a
groups and families the chance to see the
chance to listen to the medieval clock
cathedral literally in a new light, the tours run
mechanism ticking (this is normally turned
until the end of this month, and will resume
off in a bid to preserve it).
again in November.
“To add to the warm glow we were offered
“We heard stories of Catherine of Aragon
a glass of red or white wine at the end of the
and Mary Queen of Scots, who are both buried
70-minute tour, and had a chance to chat to
at the cathedral, from our expert guide, under
fellow visitors and the cathedral staff. It was a
the atmospheric light of the candles,” says
great way to spend an evening.”
Emma. “It was a chance to imagine what it was
Peterborough Cathedral celebrates its
like to walk the corridors as the monks would
900th birthday this year with a host of
have done centuries ago, and sit in the carved
special events. Find out more about this
oak choir stalls that date back to 1800s.
– and the fantastic candle-lit tours – at
“We also learned other quirky historical
www.peterboroughcelebrates.org.uk
Peterborough Cathedral celebrates its 900th birthday this year
HEAD TO BROADWAY
HELEN MAYBA
Know Moe, pictured here , and the cast have extended their run at Marble Arch Theatre
Combine a visit to the cathedral with a
Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers – winner of a
show at Peterborough’s historic Broadway
number of Best Musical awards – from April
Theatre. The venue welcomes groups and
23-28; as well as Jools Holland on May 20
families, with a top-notch line up for 2018.
and The Magic of Motown on November 30.
The Cambridgeshire venue is playing host to
Find out more at thebroadway.today
NKS
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Industry insider
Visit Blackpool
COACH TOURISM
ASSOCIATION
John Wales, Board Director of the Coach Tourism Association and MD of Encore Tickets, looks forward to this month’s Blackpool Conference
W
E HOPE DELEGATES
FAR-REACHING PLANS
will arrive at the elegant
Following the Conference, the
Redefine BDL Imperial Hotel in
CTA Annual General Meeting
Blackpool on Sunday afternoon
will be held on the Tuesday.
(February 25) so they can enjoy
This is an opportunity for
a magical seaside evening hosted
Members to hear the Chief
by the hotel and Visit Blackpool.
Executive, Treasurer and PR and
Conference delegates will also
administration reports, and get
be able to enjoy a fascinating
the chance to elect new or re-
line-up of speakers, as well
elect existing Board Members.
as participating in the much-
In particular members will
anticipated Suppliers’ Workshop. Guests at the Conference
hear of far-reaching plans to increase CTA coach tour operator membership, invest
the mature travel market and
in social media and enhance
the impact of the latest ULEZ
membership benefits. In a recent
developments. The mature
CTA members’ survey nearly
travel market breakdown will
80% of respondents said the
be given by leading specialist
Annual Conference was the
Debbie Marshall, MD of Silver
major benefit of membership
Travel Advisor; and the latest
and have requested more similar
ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone)
networking opportunities.
developments – and how they will impact on the UK coach
WELCOME ABOARD...
tourism industry – by Simon
The CTA are pleased to welcome
Smith from the Confederation
new Board Director Colin Fawcus
of Passenger Transport.
from DFDS. Colin is National
The CTA’s heading to Blackpool
JOIN US IN BLACKPOOL! There’s a special £79 tour operator delegate rate for the two-night CTA Conference package, from February 25-27, 2018. Visit www.coachtourismassociation.co.uk or email Sue Rooney on admin@coachtourismassociation.co.uk for details.
To add icing to the cake,
Sales Manager at the Award
a presentation will be given
Winning Ferry Company and
in the coach tourism industry
2018: The Devil’s Porridge
by BBC Countryfile’s John
brings a wealth of experience
and I intend to make a major
Museum; Jetstream Tours Ltd;
Craven. He will also let the
to the Board.
contribution to the positive
Calais Tourism Office; Visit
developments.”
Brussels; Providence Hospitality;
delegates know about the
Colin says: “I’m delighted to
Countryfile Live Show at
be joining the CTA Board at a
Blenheim Palace this August.
time when so much is changing
Debbie Marshall will be one of the speakers at the CTA Conference
Seen here at a recent CTA event are John and Kristy Elsmere of Woods Travel, Sue Rooney from the CTA, Robert Shaw from Harry Shaw City Cruiser Coaches and Graham Hopcraft from Condor Ferries
J GRIFFITHS PHOTOGRAPHY
will be briefed on the state of
The CTA also welcome the following new members in
Mandy Tythe-McCallum from VisitBlackpool; Alison Gilmore and Val Morrison from the Imperial Hotel, and Chris Wales, CEO of the CTA, who look forward to welcoming the Conference Delegates
Travel By Knight and Lowther Castle and Gardens.
GTW
Colin Fawcus from DFDS has been appointed a new CTA Board Member
98 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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VISIT ENGLAND/BOURNEMOUTH TOURISM
Short breaks
Get away...
Find out more at www. daishs.com
Daish’s holidays has been providing quality UK coach holidays for over 35 years, and has lots to tempt your group this summer and beyond
E
Explore Bournemouth, and its wonderful pier, on a stay at Daish’s Sands Hotel ■ The
Prince Regent and Russell Hotels in
Weymouth, Dorset ■ The
Somerset Hotel in Llandudno, north
Wales ■ The
Barrowfield Hotel in Newquay, Cornwall
■ Daish’s ■ The
Hotel in Shanklin on Isle of Wight
Claremont Hotel in Eastbourne,
East Sussex Daish’s offers special adults-only and family-friendly breaks, as well as a number of themed breaks, from festive ‘Tinsel and turkey’
VERY YEAR, GROUPS and families up
own way to the hotel if you prefer. All Daish’s
breaks to ‘Gameshow getwaways’ where you
and down the UK book a holiday with
holidays can be booked without coach travel,
can experience what it’s like to be a contestant
Daish’s, safe in the knowledge that the
most of its hotels have ample free parking (and
on a classic TV gameshow. Every evening you
company’s friendly, knowledgeable team will
are within easy reach of rail, coach stations and
can play a different game, based on a TV show,
ensure they have a great time, in a fantastic,
airports), and self-drive holidays are all priced
with a prize for the winner – be it The Wheel
top quality hotel.
with up to £20 per person off the price of a
of Fortune or Play Yours Cards Right.
Return coach travel on Daish’s own fleet of coaches from a wide range of departure points,
coach holiday. Daish’s eight friendly and welcoming hotels,
Daish’s programme of group holidays include bowls tours, walking holidays and
dinner, bed and breakfast, live entertainment
in seven popular seaside resorts, include:
garden tours, and the Daish’s team can also
every night and optional excursions are all
■ The
Sands Hotel in Bournemouth, Dorset
tailor-make holidays to suit your group’s
part of the deal, though you can make your
■ The
Devonshire Hotel in Torquay, Devon
particular interests.
GTW
100 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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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 101
Torquay
Bournemouth
Eastbourne
@daishs4groups Llandudno
Newquay
Weymouth 06/02/2018 07:54
London & Partners
SHUTTERSTOCK
Walthamstow in East London has lots to offer visitors
Discover London Neighbourhoods Explore the attractions and hidden gems to be found in the London boroughs of Stratford and Walthamstow
A
S PART OF London & Partners’
of shops and restaurants, you’ll find an array
new initiative to showcase the
of leisure facilities, including a 17-screen Vue
wonderful areas of the city outside central
Cinema, luxury bowling at All Star Lanes, and
zone 1, we’ll be focusing on a different
the 24-hour Aspers Casino. Shopper discount
neighbourhood of London every month,
cards are available for eligible travel trade
showing you the best group-friendly
partners, as well as coach drop off and pick up
attractions, hidden gems and experiences.
bays. Visit uk.westfield.com/stratfordcity
This month, discover Stratford and
London & Partners is the Mayor of London’s official promotional agency. ■ Sign up for its monthly travel trade newsletter at londonandpartners. com/travel-trade ■ Join its trade group on Linkedin: ‘London & Partners - Travel Trade’ ■ Find out more at londonandpartners. com/travel-trade
Walthamstow in East London – the perfect
WILLIAM MORRIS GALLERY
areas to enjoy green spaces, and only
The William Morris Gallery is a grand Georgian
minutes away from central London by
building set in Walthamstow’s Lloyd Park.
tube. For more ideas and inspiration, visit
Morris’ family home from 1848 to 1856,
WALTHAMSTOW WETLANDS
londonandpartners.com/travel-trade
the building has been transformed into a
The Walthamstow Wetlands have recently
cultural destination where people of all ages
transformed into a distinctive urban nature
can be inspired by the life, work and influence
reserve. The site gives visitors access to its
Situated in the heart of the Olympic Park, the
of William Morris, a designer, craftsman and
natural, industrial and social heritage in one
ArcelorMittal Orbit is Britain’s tallest sculpture
socialist. Take full advantage of your visit by
of the capital’s most diverse urban areas.
at 114.5 metres. Enjoy a sweeping panorama
enjoying an afternoon tea in the award-winning
Wander down quiet paths to spot different
of the city from its two viewing platforms,
café, housed in the orangery-style glass
species of birds, insects and mammals,
which give unrivalled views of London from
extension. Visit wmgallery.org.uk/home
and learn about water, sustainability and
ARCELORMITTAL ORBIT
the east, and ride the world’s longest, fastest, tallest tunnel slide in a 40-second hair-raising experience. Group prices are available for 15 or more people, booked onto the same timed entry, at least five days in advance. For more information visit arcelormittalorbit.com
WESTFIELD STRATFORD CITY
the impacts of climate change at the Westfield Stratford City is the largest shopping mall in Europe
permanent exhibition ‘Water and Life’. Find out more at walthamstowwetlands.org.uk
GET HERE BY... ■ Tube:
You can get the Victoria Line
to Walthamstow Central, or the Jubilee line to Stratford station.
With 250 shops and 70 places to dine,
■ Rail:
Westfield Stratford City is the largest
stations provide connections
Stratford and Walthamstow
shopping mall in Europe and a top lifestyle
from Stansted Airport and
destination. In addition to its huge variety
Hertfordshire.
GTW
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UKinbound news
Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour
Explore Kent Alanna Kite, Travel Trade Manager at Visit Kent, has plenty to inspire groups thinking of visiting the Garden of England in 2018... THE 400TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HISTORIC DOCKYARD CHATHAM
DISCOVER DOVER CASTLE DURING THE WWI CENTENARY
KENT MINING MUSEUM AT BETTESHANGER COUNTRY PARK
With 2018 marking the 100th
Built on the site of Kent’s last
In 2018, The Historic Dockyard
anniversary of the First World
working coal mine, the Kent
Chatham celebrates 400
War, groups to Dover Castle can
Mining Museum opens later this
years of history. Activities,
now discover what it might have
year. The museum will include
exhibitions and celebrations to
been like to live and work in the
exciting, interactive displays telling
captivate all ages are planned
Fire Command Post and Port
visitors how coal was discovered,
throughout the year, including
War Signal Station, with a new
how it was mined and about the
a major temporary exhibition,
attraction that tells the story of
day-to-day lives of the miners
‘Brick History!’ showing famous
the castle during the conflict.
who worked at the collieries.
scenes from history recreated in Lego® including the death of Nelson on board HMS Victory.
THE WINE SANCTUARY AT CHAPEL DOWN WINERY
THE ROYAL HARBOUR HISTORY FESTIVAL IN RAMSGATE
Down has opened its new state-of-the-art tasting room, The Wine Sanctuary,
In 2018 not one, not two,
NEW GARDEN TOUR AT CANTERBURY CATHEDRAL
in the first Royal Harbour
but three new attractions will
Finally, no visit to Kent is
History Festival.
open in Maidstone. The town’s
complete without a trip to the
Mote Park will introduce an
wonderful Canterbury Cathedral,
programme
adventure zone, while Maidstone
having welcomed visitors since
of events
Museum & Art Gallery will reveal
medieval times. In 2018 visitors
promotes the
a fresh look to the Ancient
will be able to enjoy a brand-
wealth of rich
Civilisations Wing, including
new garden trail taking in the
history in Thanet
a facial reconstruction of the
beautiful and tranquil areas
famous mummy Ta-Kush.
around the historic building. The
Nearby, at Tonbridge’s
Memorial Garden pays tribute
Headcorn Aerodrome, the
to those who lost their lives
TRIPLE LAUNCH IN MAIDSTONE
from June 15-17, to take part
To find out more see www.visitkent. co.uk/travel-trade or email trade@ visitkent.co.uk
at its winery in Tenterden. It welcomes up to 60 guests at a time
that surrounded them.
Head to Ramsgate this summer,
Kent’s award-winning vineyard Chapel
as well as the communities
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
The packed
and east Kent, including a special schools’ festival, a ‘salute’
for in-depth tastings of the
from a flotilla of Little Ships a
Lashenden Air Warfare
during the Great War, and other
range with trained tour guides
nd a special screening of
Museum will be redeveloped,
peaceful spaces include the
and, on occasion, with Head
2017’s much-lauded ‘Dunkirk’
and a new wing is planned to
Friends’ Garden, Herb Garden
Winemaker Josh Donaghay-Spire.
movie on the beach.
open at the end of June.
and the Water Tower Garden. FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Ferry travel can prove a great value option for groups
Your travel questions answered by experts Make a city ‘wish-list’
GROUP TRAVEL
Taking precautions GROUP TRAVEL
Tips for a first-timer Q I’ve been tasked with organising
Q Do you have any advice for
against the trip, it’s advisable to put a deposit
dealing with the logistics of organising
down beforehand. That way, if they pull out,
a larger group trip? I’m worried loads
they may be losing their own money, but
of people will drop out at the last
the rest of your group won’t have any nasty
minute and leave me out of pocket.
surprises later on. The other option is to ask
Vanessa Hardy, Cumbria
your travel agent to find you a trip that includes
A Steve Witt of Not Just Travel says:
a free cancellation policy. This way everyone is covered and knows where they stand if there are any issues before the upcoming trip.
a foreign city break for my local theatre
Communication is a key factor when it
group and it’s the first time I’ve had to
comes to organising any group trip, wherever
consider such a large group of people
you’re heading – when there are a number
in larger groups is the way in which you travel.
(already 12 people have said they’ll
of people involved it’s important to know
Even though going by plane may be the most
consider joining us). We’re not sure exactly
you’re all on the same wavelength. We
time-efficient, it might be a lot cheaper to
where to go, but it must be just a short
recommend having a group chat on email or
drive, take a ferry or even travel by train to
flight away. Any tips for first-time group
text so you can talk among yourselves and
your destination. These are options worth
organisers like me?
keep everyone up to date.
thinking about. It’s always worth considering
Lynn McCarthill, Sussex
Deposits on group holidays are a huge
Another thing to consider when travelling
staying closer to home, too. You don’t have to travel thousands of miles to have a good time.
A Steve Witt of independent
positive as well. You’ll often find there
travel company Not Just Travel
the last minute or can no longer do certain
■ See www.grouptraveloffers.com
(www.notjusttravel.com) says: Whether
dates. To save you losing money, or having
for discounted attraction tickets – and
you’re travelling abroad or planning to stay
to pay out for those that have decided
the option to buy now, pay later.
are a couple in your group who pull out at
in the UK, as a group it’s important to know where you want to go and what you want from your destination. The more information you have to hand about a particular area or city, the easier the whole planning experience will be. Research is key, and reading up on destinations will help you decide if they’re right for you. For instance, a central location
Early bird offers
Q Is it better to book short breaks for
groups in advance or get a last minute deal? June Ferreday, Cornwall
A Steve Witt of Not Just Travel says:
is key when travelling as a large group;
Booking in advance will offer your group
if all the facilities and attractions are nearby
a huge advantage. You’ll find better deals,
it can definitely make your trip flow that
in addition to more variety and choice.
little bit easier.
Plus the fact that accommodation and
You can then break it down further into
flights will be a lot more accessible with the benefit of a bigger time frame. Another
attractions you want nearby, and good local
plus is that you’re less likely to suffer from
restaurants. Good luck!
split flights and split accommodation.
Book in advance for the best group deals
VISIT BRITAIN
the main costs you’ll face, the key tourist
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Your Q&As
CRUISE HOLIDAYS
City hopping in style Q We’d like to visit a few different
cities on our next holiday, but don’t fancy driving abroad. Any ideas? Summer Thompson, Denbighshire
A The team at nationwide
insurance brokers A-Plan Insurance (www.aplan.co.uk) say: A fantastic way to see several European countries in comfort is to take a river cruise. The completion of the Rhine-Main-Danube canal in 1992 has allowed modern day river cruisers to travel from the North Sea to the Black Sea, and opened up more than 2,000 miles of river. As you travel, you can take in some of the Continent’s major capital cities and admire the scenery as you go.
Explore Venice See the spectacular northern lights on a cruise CRUISE HOLIDAYS
Sailing off the beaten track Q I’d love to take a more unusual
not too far from major tourist spots. A visit
cruise, heading off the beaten track to
to Chinijo is like having your own little private
explore further than the Med. Any ideas?
corner of the Canary Islands, complete with
Meryl Potts, North Yorkshire
beautiful beaches, fantastic views and crystal
A Debbie Stevens of The Cruise Line
waters. By taking this extra step off the tourist
(www.cruiseline.co.uk) says: When it
uproar and can enjoy the natural beauty of the
comes to venturing off the beaten track,
Spanish coast in peace.
what could be further than the Arctic Ocean?
trail, you avoid the crowds, noise and general
Protected as a natural park, the Chinijo
GROUP TRAVEL
Top tips for Venice
Q I’m heading to Venice this Easter and
have been told it’s an expensive place to
Greenland is so remote it has a largely
Archipelago is home to hundreds of treasured
visit. Any tips for keeping the costs down?
untouched landscape, with unspoilt scenery
plant and animal species, with a designated
Hayley Lowther, Northamptonshire
and a rich aboriginal culture. It’s home to
reserve for marine life and many creatures to
museums and churches depicting its rich
be observed in their natural habitats.
heritage throughout the centuries, all framed
Finally, despite its far-out location, the
A Sylvia Saxon of New Meridian says:
Avoid eating in the very touristy spots, and
by its breathtaking coastal fjords. Cruise-goers
South Georgia group of islands in the
instead look for restaurants and cafés in
also have a good chance of seeing the world-
Antarctic has a wide range of things to explore.
quieter side streets. If you don’t like bread, ask
famous northern lights.
Immerse yourself in the islands’ rich history,
not to have it on the table (you’ll be charged
explore the Norwegian Lutheran church and
for it if it’s brought out without question), and
This secluded archipelago is the perfect middle
abandoned whaling station, before taking long
consider staying just outside of Venice. Getting
ground. Officially counted as part of the
hikes to enjoy the fantastic flora and fauna this
a cheaper room in a hotel 15 minutes’ bus ride
Canary Islands, it’s not difficult to reach and
region has to offer.
away is only a very minor inconvenience.
Alternatively, try the Chinijo Archipelago.
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Your Q&As
Proudly sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society
Melissa Hackney is Groups Sales & Marketing Manager at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
RHS
MEET OUR EXPERT The individual gardens also feature their own
Q What’s looking great in the
flower shows with wonderful floral displays,
RHS Gardens right now?
garden suppliers, trade stands and special talks.
June Mansfield, Cambridgeshire
RHS Garden Harlow Carr Flower Show is
A Melissa says: Winter is a magical time
Q I’ve heard of the famous RHS Chelsea
from 22-24 June 2018; the RHS Hyde Hall
Flower Show, but which other RHS events
the RHS Rosemoor Flower Show takes place
Walks have been created at each location
would you recommend for groups?
from 17-19 August 2018 and, finally, the
to ensure you see the highlights. Why not
Eve Labelle, Sussex
RHS Wisley Flower Show is from 4-9
make the most of your visit by pre-booking a
A Melissa says: The Royal Horticultural
September 2018.
special tour, where your group will be taken
Flower Show runs from 1-5 August 2018,
In addition to the flower shows, events
to visit the RHS Gardens, and special Winter
on a guided tour of the garden by one of
Society (RHS) has a huge calendar of events,
at the gardens run throughout the year,
the knowledgeable volunteers, giving you a
which are perfect for groups. Starting with
from sculpture trails to the magical Glow
captivating insight into the history, plantings
the RHS Cardiff Flower Show (13-15 April),
Illuminations in the winter months.
and seasonal delights of the garden you’re visiting by those who love it best. (Prices
there is also the RHS Malvern Spring Festival
For the first time this year, RHS Garden
(10-13 May); the RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Hyde Hall will be featuring a Floral Fantasia
from £3 each for a minimum of 10 guests,
(22-26 May); the RHS Chatsworth Flower
from 1 June to 3 September. Created in
duration approximately 60 minutes.)
Show (6-10 June); the RHS Hampton Court
partnership with Thompson & Morgan,
Palace Flower Show (2-8 July), the RHS
this display will include over 1,000 annual
around the lake, which has been specially
Tatton Park Flower Show (18-22 July), and
bedding plants displayed in pots, containers
planted for winter display, including many
finally the RHS Malvern Autumn Show (29-30
and hanging baskets. For full details, see
scented plants and shrubs with colourful
September). See www.rhs.org.uk/shows
www.rhs.org.uk/groups
stems and leaves. The Butterflies in the
At Wisley, the Winter Walk takes you
Glasshouse is a real treat that is open until March 4, and before too long the early
Q Many of the members of my gardening
to certain areas that are slightly more difficult.
group struggle to walk far. What facilities
At Harlow Carr and Wisley we offer the loan
are on offer at the RHS’ many gardens
of manual wheelchairs and electric mobility
for those with limited mobility?
scooters, which can be booked in advance, and
Experience the ultimate gardening day
Julie Ward, Norfolk
at Hyde Hall manual wheelchairs are available.
out with the RHS at its four wonderful
At Wisley, there is also an electric
spring bulbs will be starting to appear.
gardens – RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey;
A Melissa says: All our gardens are
mobility vehicle that seats a number of
RHS Garden Harlow Carr in North
accessible and there’s plenty to enjoy for those
passengers, which runs continuously
Yorkshire; RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex
with limited mobility at all four sites. We offer
around the garden on 30-minute circuits.
and RHS Garden Rosemoor in North
recommended wheelchair routes through the
It runs from 10am-4pm in the summer and
Devon. Special group prices are available.
gardens, which can be obtained in advance.
10am-3pm in the winter. See www.rhs.
See rhs.org.uk/groups
There are some limitations at each garden due
org.uk/gardens for more information.
GTW
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Enjoy a great day out at RHS Flower Shows Exclusive discounts for groups of 20+*
13–15 April RHS Flower Show Cardiff 10–13 May RHS Malvern Spring Festival 22–26 May
RHS Chelsea Flower Show
6–10 June
RHS Chatsworth Flower Show
2–8 July
RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show
2 July
LIMITED AVAILABILITY
Preview Evening
18–22 July RHS Flower Show Tatton Park
To book call 0844 412 4650** See Group Sales at groups@seetickets.com *Excludes RHS Chelsea Flower Show. **Calls cost 7p per minute plus network extras. All dates correct at time of printing but are subject to change. RHS Registered Charity No: 222879/SC038262
FP Template.indd 107
06/02/2018 07:53
Visit www.group-travel.com/passionplay to plan your trip to Oberammergau, as recommended by Marian
Tales of the unexpected
Marian Durbridge is one busy lady, organising trips for two local clubs, taking groups all over the world – and never quite knowing what’s going to happen next... As told to: Angela Youngman
I
’VE JUST HAD 40 people turn up in my
Harpenden Trust, organising trips for elderly
properties, houses and gardens, stately homes,
kitchen for a presentation about sailing
people from the area. He could see I had the
seaside trips, mystery tours and the Royal
knowledge and the organisational skills to do it.
Albert Hall in London.
through the islands of Croatia. I have got rather a large kitchen, but we were a bit squashed!
This became Go Together Travel, and
Though it did work, as we sold 13 cabins on
our first trip was to Waddesdon Manor in
of events, which includes a trip to Constable
We’ve just brought out our new programme
the night. You really can’t tell how many are
Buckinghamshire with 19 people. Ever since
country, as well as Swindon Designer Outlet
going to turn up to things like this, but I’ve
then it’s just grown and grown. There’s a wide
and Littlecote House in Wiltshire, with a tour
become accustomed to the unexpected.
age range, from people in their 60s up to
round the house. We’ve also got trips on offer
For ten years I operated a company for
95. We charge people £10 a year to join Go
to Kew Gardens in London and Northumbria, as
theatregoers around our local area. When it
Together Travel and always aim to keep costs
well as a Christmas lunch at the Stoke Bruerne
closed, I set up my own business, called the
down. There is a rolling membership – people
canal museum near Towcester. I’ve got a good
Harpenden Arts Theatre Club. Then one of the
can start whenever they like, and we run
coach company who I work with, and I regularly
members of the club asked if I’d run an events
events throughout the year. We sell out all our
sit down with them to work out a programme
company on behalf of a local charity, The
trips, going to places like the National Trust
of houses, gardens and boat trips, etc.
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Real life Marian’s first group trip was to Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire
My all-time favourite? A trip to Oberammergau in the Bavarian Alps in Germany. It was just fantastic back via the Heights of Abraham and found the two people waiting for us. By this time, we’d missed the train and had to catch it at the next station. The coach then had to follow on behind to meet us at the end – it was just like a film chase where the coach is chasing the train! Another memorable one involved a trip to VISIT BRITAIN
Dartford where we picked up a boat to take us to London. I had found the boat trip by chatting to a guy at a travel exhibition and we filled his boat. It was 35 miles along the
Marian is a big fan of Constable country
river with a guy who gave us a fascinating commentary all the way. He knew all the history and never stopped talking. It was a fantastic day out. He has stopped doing the tours now, so we were lucky to go, and it
OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY 2010
was a very unique experience. I’m certainly in doubt as to which outing has been my all-time favourite – a trip to Oberammergau in the Bavarian Alps in VISIT BRITAIN
Germany. We took a group to explore the area and went to see the Passion Play. It was just fantastic. The people doing it are all volunteers, and
We organise four trips a month and
it lasted all day long. We had a morning
MEET OUR EXPERT
do all kinds of things – plays, operas,
session, then lunch, then another session
MARIAN DURBRIDGE runs the
West End shows, musicals, open air concerts,
lasting into the evening. As they put Jesus onto
open air theatre trips to Regent’s Park and
the cross, there was a real storm. It absolutely
Shakespeare’s Globe, as well as trips to
tipped it down – there was thunder and
The Savill Garden in Windsor Great Park,
lightening and it was really spooky. It was really
and Frogmore House, which is just a short
memorable and something everyone should
drive from Windsor.
do at least once in their lifetime – the next
Hertfordshire-based Go Together Travel Club, which organises day trips and holidays by coach. She also runs the Herts Theatre Club. Find out more at gotogetherclub.com and www.htclub.co.uk
MEMORABLE MOMENTS
one is in 2020.
Some of our tours have definitely been
THE SECRET OF SUCCESS...
memorable. On one occasion we’d gone
What does it take to be a successful group
to the Heights of Abraham in Derbyshire on
organiser? You need to be well organised and
The theatre club involves a much wider age
the cable car. We had lunch there and then
patient to do this job; you must be open to
range and we charge £25 per person to join,
came down as we were going on a train ride.
ideas and do your research.
or £35 for a couple. I organise these events
When we got back to the meeting place,
myself. There is a slight cross over with Go
two people didn’t turn up.
WHEN THE CURTAIN RISES
It’s a case of coming up with ideas for trips, and then hoping we get enough interest. We
Together Travel, but we keep the two groups
We waited a short while, but couldn’t
fairly separate. The theatre club is the group
continue waiting for them as the train was
that will be taking the Croatian tour, and we’re
already booked. We left a message that we
also planning to go to Malta and France.
would be back and tore off at a great rate
next mailing and book up for trips quickly.
to make up for lost time.
It perpetuates itself. We don’t advertise our
We always try to do something unusual,
always aim to keep costs down so we can get as many people as possible going. People are always looking forward to the
En route the coach got stuck in a narrow
services – numbers have built up by word of
Bedfordshire recently and had an afternoon tea
lane and it took 13 attempts before the driver
mouth and through going to local shows and
party around the theme of Beatrix Potter.
could turn round in a field gate. We had to go
speaking to people about what we do.
for example we visited some gardens in
GTW
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Your shout
Over to you
We want to hear from you!
Email your letters and photos to helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com
Making a splash I met up with a group of very like-minded horsey women for a fantastic weekend away courtesy of Horse Trekking in Andalucia (horsetrekkinginandalucia.com). None of us knew each other before we went, but we soon bonded over lengthy hacks through the olive groves. The company offers fully escorted horse riding and golf holidays, and will set up special group breaks to suit you. Riding through the sea was an experience I’ll never forget. I can’t wait to go again! Sheryle Elson, Cambridgeshire
STAR LETTER
A blooming great read What better place to sit and read all about the
If you’re ever heading there, I can
UK’s best gardens than in a Portuguese one!
recommend the Castelo São Jorge, a fantastic
I took my copy of Group Travel World
Moorish castle overlooking the city. We loved
with me when our group stayed at a
our day trip to the hill town of Sintra too.
fantastic – and huge – villa near Lisbon.
Eddie Sleight, Lincolnshire
Anyone for cricket? Back in September I read a review of the new
the scenes tour of the ground before, but it
try new things is music to our ears!
Kia Oval tours in Group Travel World and
proved to be one of the best days out we’ve
We’ve been on the Kia Oval tour and
thought how great they’d be for the friendship
organised. Great staff, a fantastic guide and a
loved it too. Head to our sister site
group I run. We’re all men of a certain age, many
glass of fizz on the Corinthian Roof Terrace.
grouptraveloffers.com to book a
of us have played the odd game of cricket in
Clive Mansfield, Kent
90-minute Kia Oval stadium tour for
the past, and as we’re based on the south coast,
just £20, and email emma.parkes@
train links to The Oval are straightforward. It
A WORD FROM THE ED:
grouptravelworld.com if you fancy joining
had never occurred to me to go on a behind
To hear we’re inspiring group organisers to
us on a fam trip there in the near future.
110 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Travel gear Buy this... Hailed as the world’s first stick-and-shoot
of its design, Podo enables you to get
camera, we love this quirky little Podo.
any shot, from any angle. Group trips and
Priced at around £75, it sticks to any hard
selfies will never look the same again!
surface, from glass to wood, then simply
The Pogo is lightweight (50g), measures
unsticks once you’ve taken your shot. Sync
just 5 x 5 x 2.5cm, has a 5 megapixel
it to your smartphone and take a photo
image sensor, 8GB of memory, a micro-
or video that will stream straight to your
USB port, LED flash and rechargeable
camera’s library via Bluetooth. Because
Li-ion battery. See podolabs.com The Podo stick-andshoot camera
...and try this... If your family trips involve younger children, invest in a Trunki ride-on suitcase and you’ll whizz through the airport faster than you can say ‘last call for flight number 323’. “My daughter Georgie has one and it’s a travel must-have,” says GTW editor Helen Milbank. “She uses it to sit on while we crawl through airport security, gets whizzed along on it when we’re heading to the departure gate and it’s great in foreign airports too while you’re waiting for coach transfers, etc.” Priced around £44.99, it’s available in scores of designs and children can even design their own. Find out more at www.trunki.co.uk
MINI TRIED & TESTED
MVMT Soho Wireless Earbuds Tested by: GTW’s client manager Paige Fraser
Great for: Listening to your favourite tunes
on the move, and so tiny you can squeeze them
and podcasts for up to five hours at a time
into even the most modest of pockets. Priced
while on the train/coach/plane/lengthy
at £14.99, get them at www.tkmaxx.com
car journey.
110-111 GTW Feb 18 Readers' letters.indd 111
Verdict: These offer fantastic sound quality for
■ Got
the price, and are Bluetooth connected so I can
like to shout about? Email the details to
a favourite travel product you’d
use them anywhere. They’re great when you’re
helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com
GTW
FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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Puzzle time
Test your grey matter – answers on page 113
Try our quizzes and brain teasers every month
PICTURE QUIZ
Can you guess where this photo was taken?
W RD
SEARCH Find the words below in the grid – all are well-known tourist attractions...
BEAMISH LONGLEAT LEGOLAND THE SHARD STONEHENGE JORVIK EDEN WOBURN
E B K I V R O J T E X C Y D E A X W H G T O I C Z R Y D E N A R X V T E N X S E E N E D E A X X H H L E G O L A N D A E G X N E D E R P R N N G N R U B O W D O O B E A M I S H G T L X Y B D X E R X S
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 March 1, 2018.
112 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Puzzles
Crossword ACROSS 7 Provided with protective covering (8) 8 Speck (4) 9 Gather (5) 10 Boat race (7) 12 Type of variable electrical control (6) 13 Embarrass (5) 15 Stimulus (3) 16 Expiry (5) 18 Yield post (6) 20 Wool fat (7) 23 Crowbar (5) 25 Hardens (4) 26 Pertaining to a school (8)
DOWN 1 Quivered (8) 2 Israeli intelligence agency (6) 3 Illustrative craft (3) 4 Verge (4) 5 Largest desert (6) 6 Wood (4) 11 Mischievous (4) 13 Relating to aircraft (4) 14 Sanitary (8)
22 Formerly Mesopotamia (4) 24 Grass (3)
17 Excite (6) 19 Scandinavian kingdom (6) 21 Second son of Adam and Eve (4)
FILM & TV QUIZ 2
3
4
VISIT BRITAIN
1
his role as a villainous prison
Q Jack Ellis is best known for
also the title of which British
Q The name of this castle is
Q Which hugely popular
1980s detective series was
was written by Agatha Christie.
Q Murder on the Orient Express
officer in what TV series?
soap opera?
set in Jersey?
But what was her home county?
Picture quiz answer: Liverpool’s Albert Dock
Crossword solution: (Across) 7 Armoured, 8 Atom, 9 Amass, 10 Regatta, 12 Slider, 13 Abash, 15 Cue, 16 Death, 18 Resign, 20 Lanolin, 23 Lever, 25 Sets, 26 Academic. (Down) 1 Trembled, 2 Mossad, 3 Art, 4 Edge, 5 Sahara, 6 Holt, 11 Arch, 13 Aero, 14 Hygienic, 17 Arouse, 19 Sweden, 21 Abel, 22 Iraq, 24 Rat. Film & TV quiz answers: 1. Bad Girls 2. The Windsors 3. Bergerac 4. Devon
Answers FEBRUARY 2018 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD
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And finally... Tour America offers holidays across the US, from Las Vegas to Orlando
MARY MCKENNA
I
As managing director of Tour America, Mary McKenna’s on a mission to ensure her holidaymakers have the time of their lives
STARTED TOUR AMERICA 23 years
of ensuring there’s constant communication
– I started in the airline business and have a
ago from my sitting room, and from
with my team. It’s vital there are no grey
pilot’s licence (but have never flown a plane!).
the very beginning I decided to work
areas and I have one-to-one meetings so
It was something I had to do due to the
on the business, rather than in it. So I
everyone’s very clear about our objectives
position I held within the airline. I was a duty
never sold a holiday, and was constantly
and where the company is going.
manager at 23, which meant I was in charge
I want to continue to take the company
looking for growth opportunities. I also hired the best people in the industry. Success came from very hard work and being a company that was about constant
of all ground operations. This gave me a great
to new levels; we have a couple of business
start in business, as I had to make decisions
ideas for 2018 and new products we’re
most 23-year-olds would never make – and I
going to launch. The next five years will be
was never afraid to make the hard decisions. If I have any tips for group
innovation and creativity, and thinking outside the box. We never followed other players in our industry, but constantly looked to how we could do things better and raise our standards consistently.
PIXABAY
A world apart
Dublin-based Tour America is Ireland’s leading holiday specialist to the USA, Canada and Mexico, as well as offering worldwide cruises. Find out more at www. touramerica.ie
I’ve learnt so much over the years – the most important thing being not to sweat the small stuff
travel organisers it would be to always book with a licensed and bonded company so your money’s protected, and check out the company’s Facebook page – only book with companies that show
My role is very much about being an inspirational leader to my team, and when I
about continued growth in our very niche
you transparency and have all their comments
started the company I was a true entrepreneur
products, which are North America and cruises
up for everyone to see, good and bad.
– not necessarily a great leader, so I worked on
worldwide. We’ve just become the first travel
this part of my self-development and studied
company to launch our own app, and this will
And another thing... Mary was crowned
emotional intelligence and NLP. My staff come
allow us to make contact with our clients while
Woman of the Year at the 2017 Everywoman
first and they, in turn, put our customers first.
in resort. We’re the market leaders in Ireland
in Travel Awards, which is awarded to business
I’ve learnt so much over the years – the
on social media and plan to hire an exclusive
owners whose vision is set to inspire other
most important thing being not to sweat the
videographer to grow our Youtube channel.
women to start their own enterprise. Find
small stuff. I’ve also learned the importance
I’ve worked in the industry since I was 18
out more at www.everywoman.com
GTW
114 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD FEBRUARY 2018
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Group Travel World - Day Trips Events x 4 - FP Feb 2018_Layout 1 01/02/2018 09:05 Page 1
NEW
Entertainment Lunches EXCLUSIVE TO GREATDAYS - FOR GROUPS AND INDIVIDUALS
Includes: • Welcome tea, coffee and biscuits* • 90 minutes of premium entertainment • 3 course set lunch* with tea & coffee
BLUE BIRDS AND BUGLE BOYS
SIXTIES SUMMER SENSATIONS
10.30am Doors open.
Lancashire - 5 June, 3 Oct 2018
10.30am Doors open.
£27.00 per person
Lancashire - 6 June, 4 Oct 2018
11.00am Arrive for tea, coffee and biscuits served at your table.
11.00am Arrive for tea, coffee and biscuits served at your table.
£27.00 per person
11.30am Enjoy the first half of the show and topical quiz.
£27.00 per person
11.30am Enjoy the first half of the show and topical quiz. 12.30pm A delicious three course set lunch will be served. 2.00pm
3.00pm
Cheshire - 27 June, 20 Sept 2018
£27.00 per person Bristol - 19 June, 26 Sept 2018
£32.50 per person
12.30pm A delicious three course set lunch will be served.
We will announce the best dressed guest and draw the raffle. Then enjoy the second half of the show.
Essex - 4 Sept 2018
2.00pm
Carriages.
£32.50 per person
£32.50 per person Kent - 12 June, 12 Sept 2018 3.00pm
Cheshire - 28 June, 21 Sept 2018
Kent - 13 June, 11 Sept 2018
£32.50 per person
We will announce the best dressed guest and draw the raffle. Then enjoy the second half of the show.
Essex - 5 Sept 2018
Carriages.
£32.50 per person
£32.50 per person Bristol - 20 June, 25 Sept 2018
2018 Dates and Prices Yorkshire 13, 14, 15 Nov *Gift shop not available here
£26.50 per person Lancashire 19, 20, 21, 22 Nov
£26.50 per person
CELEBRATING THE CARPENTERS 10.30am Doors Open. It’s ‘Yesterday Once More’.
CHRISTMAS SHOW PARTY 10.30am ‘There’s no business like show business’. Doors Open.
NEW VENUE Cheshire 26, 27, 28, 29 Nov & 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13 Dec
£26.50 per person
10.45am ‘Hello Dolly’. Arrival.
Warwickshire 19, 20, 21, 22 Nov
11.15am ‘Hey Big Spender’. Browse the Christmas gift shop* and buy your raffle tickets.
£30.00 per person
11.30am ‘We’ve only just begun’. First half of the show including quiz.
11.45am ‘Life is a Cabaret’. First half of the show.
Bristol - 13, 14, 15 Nov
12.30pm A delicious three course set lunch will be served.
12.30pm ‘Food Glorious Food’. A delicious three course set menu festive lunch will be served.
10.45am Arrive for tea, coffee and biscuits served at your table. 11.00am Purchase your raffle tickets for the charity draw.
2.00pm 3.00pm
Enjoy the second half of the show including Best dressed competition and raffle draw. ‘Last One Singin' the Blues’. Carriages.
Cheshire - 26 June 2018
Lancashire - 17 Sept 2018
£27.00 per person
£27.00 per person
2.00pm
‘If I were a Rich Man’. Charity draw and best dressed competition.
2.15pm
‘I got Rhythm’. Second half of the show.
3.00pm
‘And I’m telling you I’m not going’. Carriages.
*Gift shop not available here
£32.50 per person Essex 26, 27, 28, 29 Nov
£29.50 per person Kent - 3, 4, 5, 6 Dec
£29.50 per person
F O R G R O U P S O F 1 0 O R M O R E P L E A S E C O N TA C T O U R S A L E S T E A M
T: 0161 928 3242
| E: sales@greatdays.co.uk | www.greatdays.co.uk
FOR INDIVIDUALS PLEASE BOOK ONLINE
www.greatdaysholidays.co.uk
Follow us on
@GreatdaysTravel
* Christmas on Broadway includes a mince pie on arrival and is a festive set lunch. Prices exclude coach hire. Dates subject to availability and can change without prior notice.
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“A HUGE, BRIGHT, COLOURFUL PRODUCTION THAT’S FULL OF WONDER AND JOY.” Official London Theatre
NOW BOOKING TO SATURDAY 25 MAY 2019 GROUP TICKETS FROM JUST £25.00* *Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.
©WLPL
020 7206 1174 • WickedTheMusical.co.uk APOLLO VICTORIA THEATRE LONDON
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