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Discover Britain’s best castles & abbeys THE FAR EAST: EXPLORE VIETNAM BY TRAIN FROM HANOI TO SAIGON SCOTLAND: WHY NOW’S THE TIME TO HEAD NORTH PLUS
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TV’S JENNY POWELL: ‘MY SECRET FOR HAPPY FAMILY HOLIDAYS’
SCAN HERE for cheaper attraction tickets
Wild Times Spend next weekend with a man-eater!
02/08/2018 10:19
WHAT WILL YOU EXPERIENCE ON YOUR NEXT GROUP ADVENTURE? EUROPEAN & WORLDWIDE ESCORTED TOURS FOR GROUPS 2018/2019 Riviera Travel offers a wide selection of European and worldwide escorted tours, plus luxury four and five-star river cruises, exciting journeys by rail and once in a lifetime tall ship adventures – something to suit everyone’s taste and budget, whether travelling as a group or as an individual.
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Please mention Group Travel World August 2018 when you book Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton on Trent, Staffs, DE14 1SP. ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430 protected. Prices are based on two people sharing a twin room. Additional entrance costs may apply. *Some elements are not commissionable, including upgrades, insurance premiums and some supplements plus bookings made through a third party – ask for full details. †Supplements applicable for certain regional stations. A commission invoice will be requested from the group leader in the month following that of the departure.
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ABTA No. V4744
07/08/2018 14:02
Welcome
A word from the editor Work envy. That’s what I’ve been suffering
They are loved by millions of people around
this month. Or rather place of work envy
the world because they’re loved by the people
– all sparked by the lovely Lesley Terrell of
who work in and around them.
Historic Royal Palaces, who gets to hot desk
Afternoon tea at Kensington Palace was
across six palaces. One day she might be at
such a treat I can’t wait to go again (see
the Tower of London, the next Hampton Court
page 70), and I was blown away by how
or Kensington Palace.
accessible the palace and its grounds are
And then there’s Melissa Hackney and her colleague Sue Burnham of RHS Garden Wisley, whose offices overlook the beautiful manicured lawns of this Surrey gem.
to us minions. The same goes for RHS Garden Wisley (see page 48). Its team of staff – from Melissa and Sue, who are group organisers’ go-to
■ See grouptraveloffers.com for cut-price attraction tickets Group Travel World Magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard: 01733 293487 Web: www.grouptravelworld.com – and www.grouptraveloffers.com for attraction tickets ISSN: 2048-3392 EDITORIAL
Editor: Helen Milbank
Suddenly a business park on the edge of
contacts, to the hugely knowledgeable
E. helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com
Peterborough seems a tad unglamorous!
garden manager Sheila Das – strive every
But meeting up with Lesley, Melissa
day to make sure visitors have a fantastic
Designer: David Hiles E: david.hiles@d15design.com
and Sue has made me appreciate the hard work that goes into
day out. They really do earn their views from their work station windows.
making these wonderful, historic
Thanks to: Sam Bradley, Darren Calpin, Dan Kirby, Naomi MacKay, Cindy Ng, Mike Pickup, John Sansom, Chris Wales and Angela Youngman ADVERTISING
attractions such fantastic places
Advertising Manager: Julie Cousins T: 01733 293242 E: julie.cousins@grouptravelworld.com
for groups and families to visit.
Client Manager: Paige Fraser T: 01733 293245 E: paige.fraser@grouptravelworld.com
Page 34
Sales Executive: Karen Newton T: 01733 293489 E: karen.newton@grouptravelworld.com Sales Executive: Abi Paige T: 01733 293481 E: abi.paige@grouptravelworld.com SUBSCRIPTIONS/MARKETING
Marketing Subscriptions Manager: 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: 01733 293249 MANAGEMENT PIXABA Y
General Operations Manager: Harley Denham T: 01733 293249 E: harley.denham@grouptravelworld.com Publisher: Jonathan Taylor E: jonathan@grouptravelworld.com
MAIN COVER IMAGE: PIXABAY
© 2018 GTW Media Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.
This issue we’re going wild at the UK’s best zoos and parks – see page 34
Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @GTWMagazine, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/grouptravelworld and join our Linkedin group Group Travel World Magazine
Group Travel World magazine is read by
leading UK and European coach operators, as well as active group travel organisers, representing more than 1,000,000 travellers.
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ASSOCIA ASSOCIATION
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PIXABAY
PIXABAY PIXABAY
18 Christmas has come early!
96 Explore Vietnam by rail
92 Discover Scotland’s lochs, cities and more 4 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
004-005 GTW Aug 18 Contents.indd 4
02/08/2018 10:52
Contents Regulars 6 Let’s go...
Japan’s mountainous Kumano Kodo region
8 15 minutes with... TV’s Jenny Powell
10 News
We catch up on the world of travel
60 Industry insider
News from the Coach Tourism Association
32 Visit Puy du Fou – a French theme park like no other
61 Theatre news & reviews The latest from theatreland
102 UKinbound
Get a 25% discount at ZSL London Zoo
106 Expert Q&As
Your questions answered
110 Readers’ letters
You share your news and photos
112 Puzzle pages
Try our quizzes and puzzles every month
114 And finally...
MATT CROCKETT
Take a mini break to Paris
64 We review hit show Wicked at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre
Features 14 The gateway to the Alps
Eight reasons to get excited about Geneva
18 Feeling festive?
Get set for Christmas 2018
30 Light shows
See the light at Longleat and Puy du Fou
34 It’s a jungle out there
Go wild at the UK’s best animal attractions
40 Ten of the best...
Days out for families and groups
48 Wonderful Wisley
Visit the RHS’ flagship Surrey garden
PIXABAY
50 All aboard
14 Head to Geneva: the glorious gateway to the Alps
Take a trip on the world’s largest cruise ship
55 Get up and glow
The aloe vera products that are a travel must
70 Tea at the Palace
Enjoy afternoon tea at Kensington Palace
72 An Englishman’s home...
Tour the UK’s best-loved castles and abbeys
78 What lies beneath
Roman remains, world-famous ships and more
82 In the footsteps of the Vikings Discover the ancient walled city of York
88 Bringing history to life
The wonderful Dorset town of Sherborne
92 Into the deep
Scotland’s stunning lochs, beaches and cities
41 Knebworth House, Park & Gardens
96 Xin chào!
We travel on Vietnam’s Reunification Express WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Let’s go...
JAPAN
Kumano Kodo The history of Japan’s mountainous Kumano Kodo region stretches back thousands of years. So far back, in fact, that its network of pilgrimage routes, which criss-cross the Kii Peninsula, are now registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Sacred Site. For more than 1,000 years, everyone from emperors and samurai warriors to aristocrats and priests have walked these trails, and today groups can follow in their footsteps thanks to specialist holiday provider Selective Asia. Its Echoes of Edo small group tour ventures into Kumano Kodo, with the company’s very own Andrew Tedman your guide for the duration. Japan was his home for 11 years, he has family in the Kumano Kodo region, and he knows his sushi from his sashimi, so you can spend a fascinating fortnight experiencing Japan’s legendary hospitality, rubbing shoulders with the locals and exploring the pilgrimage trails, as well as the gardens of Kanazawa, the foodie capital of Osaka, the city of Hiroshima and more. Selective Asia’s 14-day break to this fascinating region, from November 5, 2019, costs £4,350 (excluding international flights). Find out more at selectiveasia.com
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15 minutes with...
Jenny Powell The TV presenter shares her secrets for keeping everyone – aged from nine to 90 – happy on holiday, and why she’s still a beach bum at heart As told to: Naomi MacKay Main photo: Pixabay
J
ENNY POWELL CELEBRATED her 50th
miss it. It makes it more stressful. It was easier
earlier this year, with several trips planned
when we didn’t have all this information!”
markets. I’d retire there if I could.” And what about closer to home? Jenny and her family live in Cheshire, not far from
to mark the occasion. When we spoke she was
Jenny’s also hoping to head back to South
getting ready to head back to Dubai, a trip just
Africa soon, where her parents are from. “My
Manchester. “We’ve been taking the dog and
for her and her fiancé. “I went out there for the
favourite place is Cape Town. Some people
discovering more of Lancashire and Yorkshire,
first time last year and didn’t know whether
have preconceptions about it politically,
and the gastropubs that don’t mind the dog
I’d like it; we went on a whim. But you get five
but you can’t get a better place if you want
and muddy boots. You’ll find some of the top
star service no matter what hotel you’re in.”
to absorb a culture. It’s a cosmopolitan
chefs in the country there. Clitheroe, an old
city, with amazing mountains and dramatic
market town in the Ribble Valley, is a great
though, it takes a lot of forethought. “I have
beaches with the Atlantic and Indian oceans,
spot – we went there on New Year’s Eve.”
a nine-year-old, a teenager and my parents
wineries, vineyards and amazing food.
When Jenny plans a family holiday
– Dad is 90 and Mum’s 86. I’m a fan of
“The people are the loveliest – everyone’s
And while trips to Cornwall and York are also planned for this year, Jenny says she is,
Airbnb; I can find something with an annexe
always beaming. It’s really family oriented
at heart, “a bit of a beach bum”. One of my
for Mum and Dad, and I always look for
too, my cousins take guitars to the beach
favourite places is Deia in Majorca. It was big
somewhere within easy reach of the beach
and we have a braai (barbecue).”
in the ’60s and ’70s and is quite hippy and
(great for my nine-year-old), and near the
So which are her standout places there?
bohemian. It was significant in its day and a
“Noordhoek has a dramatic coastline – I’ve
bit of a secret haunt of famous people. It’s
told my girls when I die I’ll pay for their
a lovely Majorcan village in the mountain.
“I’m obsessed with the weather and have a
flights to come and throw my ashes into
It reminds me of South Africa, shrouded
weather app on my phone. At the moment it’s
the sea there. At Boulders Beach there
in mountains with the beach nearby.”
raining in Dubai and I’m trying to work out if it
are penguins that come and sunbathe
■ Follow
will still be raining when we get there or if we’ll
next to you. Then there are amazing food
instagram.com/jennypowelltv
shops for some teenage shopping trips.” Sun is top of Jenny’s holiday wish list.
Jenny on Instagram at GTW
PIXABAY
Jenny’s heart belongs to Cape Town
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SEE FURTHER THAN THE EYE CAN SEE
• London’s highest viewing platform • 800ft above the ground • Unwind with a glass of champagne • Stay as long as you wish Special rates for groups of 10+ plus free leader places 0844 499 7111 reservations@theviewfromtheshard.com www.theviewfromtheshard.com
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News
The making of a militant
Coronation Street’s Sally Lindsay presented the BBC documentary
To coincide with the recent BBC One documentary Emmeline Pankhurst: The making of a militant, Marketing Manchester has produced a guide to visiting Emmeline’s Manchester. The documentary, which was presented by former Coronation Street actor Sally Lindsay, revealed the incredible story of the Suffragette leader who lived at 62 Nelson Street (which is now the Pankhurst Centre) with her three daughters between 1898 and 1907. Emmeline moved to the city following the death of her husband, pro-suffragist barrister Dr Richard Pankhurst, and the house was the birthplace of the Suffragette movement, with the first meeting of the Women’s Social and Political Union held in Emmeline’s parlour. Now open to the public as a museum, in the 100th centenary year of votes for women, the Pankhurst Centre has plans for significant renovations to ensure this part of Manchester’s history is preserved for future generations. Find out more about the centre at thepankhurstcentre. org.uk – and for more on Marketing Manchester’s guide see radicalmanchester.com
A-maze your friends The Maze Masters at The Crystal Maze
games that are a must for die-hard fans of
LIVE Experience are used to donning wild,
the iconic 90s show The Crystal Maze.
eccentric costumes, but this Halloween
Join the GTW team for our free fam trip to Eltham Palace in Greenwich on September 18. Find out more at grouptravelworld.com/ fam-trips
The whole experience is frantic and
they’re taking it even further. The London and
fun: expect to be crawling, running and
Manchester-based attraction has announced
sliding your way around the maze. It’s
its autumn line up during the October half-
the ultimate team experience, so gather
Undress the Tudors!
term (from October 29 to November 2) as
your friends and family and book your
Step back in time and undress our ancestors
spooky twists are added to the interactive
place now at the-crystal-maze.com
in the latest addition for groups at Royal Museums Greenwich. A fun, interactive demo, Undressing the Tudors and Stuarts explains the importance clothing played within society, set against the backdrop of the iconic Armada portrait of Queen Elizabeth I at Queen’s House. To find out more, email traveltrade@ rmg.co.uk or visit rmg.co.uk
THIS MONTH WE LOVE... ...MBNA Thames Clippers’ ‘park and glide’ service, which gives passengers the chance to ride the popular Thames river bus – while allowing coach operators to park for free at The O2. Find out more at Can you escape the Crystal Maze?
mbnathamesclippers.com
10 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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02/08/2018 11:02
The UK’s No.1 Mill Store The Ultimate
Christmas
Shopping Destination Home To Hundreds Of Famous Name Brands At Discount Prices
UP TO
70% OFF RRP
Late Night
Shopping Weekdays
Driver Incentives - Group Benefits - Inclusive Tours Special Events - Meet & Greet - Free Coach Parking Open 7 Days A Week - Discount Vouchers All Stores
Colne
Tea Room Colne
Colne
Colne
Colne
Sheffield & Walsall
To book your visit call 01282 856200 or email coaches@boundarymill.co.uk Visit our website for store opening hours and brand directory. Brands, styles, departments & menus may differ from store to store. Grantham is a fashion only store.
Colne Grantham Newcastle Sheffield Walsall FP Template.indd 11
07/08/2018 14:04
News
Free for you!
Bill Nighy stars in The Bookshop
This pretty necklace
worth £9.99
is yours for free* *Just pay £4.99 p&p
This month, treat yourself to this pretty dolphin charm pendant, which hangs on a dainty silver chain. It’s yours for free (just pay £4.99 p&p and order before September 12, 2018).
Southwold on the big screen Now out on DVD, The Bookshop – directed
The film is quintessentially English, and
by Isabel Coixet and starring Emily Mortimer,
clearly influenced by Penelope’s time living
Bill Nighy and Patricia Clarkson – has sparked
in the small seaside town, which can boast
extra interest in the popular seaside village
to be the inspiration for many other cultural
of Southwold on the Suffolk coast.
settings, including the long-running British
Based on Penelope Fitzgerald’s much-loved novel of the same name, the film’s fictional town of Harborough
drama Upstairs, Downstairs. George Orwell also lived in the town for over 20 years. If you’d like to follow in their footsteps,
is inspired by Southwold, where
find out more about the best places to stay,
Penelope spent a year working in
eat and visit at exploresouthwold.co.uk
The Solebay Bookshop in the 1950s.
and southwoldtouristinformation.co.uk
AND THERE’S MORE!
Bumblebee charm
£9.99
Bird charm
£9.99
Staff at the farm celebrate their win
Making a flutter Staff at the Stratford Butterfly Farm in
Elephant charm
£9.99
Flamingo charm
£9.99
TO ORDER GO TO:
grouptravelworld.com/gtwshop
“We’re extremely proud and delighted,”
Warwickshire are celebrating after the
says Jane Kendrick, who’s the farm’s marketing
attraction was awarded one of the industry’s
manager. “It’s a remarkable vote of confidence
most prestigious awards.
to our business.”
It clinched the 2018 TripAdvisor Hall
The farm, which is home to hundreds of
of Fame Certificate of Excellence – an
spectacular butterflies, insects, reptiles and
award only given to places that consistently
spiders, is open every day bar Christmas Day.
achieve outstanding traveller reviews for
Find out for yourself what makes it a winner at
five years consecutively.
butterflyfarm.co.uk
GTW
12 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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02/08/2018 11:02
HOUSE & GARDENS
rders
Bo g the
in
r Featu
ture Sculp
Park
A ROBERT ADAM MASTERPIECE One of Scotland’s finest stately homes, this Robert Adam masterpiece is a ‘must-see’ with exquisite interiors, fine art, embroidery, china and furniture collections. Set in acres of tranquil parkland with lakeside and woodland walks, stunning gardens, outdoor art exhibitions, café, play area and holiday cottages.
For 2019 opening dates see website Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. House: 12.00pm to 5.00pm (last entry at 4.15pm) Gardens & Cafe: 11.00am to 5.00pm APPROX 15 MINS FROM MELROSE & KELSO. 1HR FROM EDINBURGH & BERWICK-UPON-TWEED.
www.mellerstain.com
MELLERSTAIN HOUSE, GORDON, SCOTTISH BORDERS TD3 6LG TEL: 01573 410225 | ENQUIRIES@MELLERSTAIN.COM Scottish Charity Number: SC011009
DOWNTON ABBEY & Bath Christmas Market
E XC LU S IV DAT E
Enjoy a truly unique opportunity to visit Highclere Castle, filming location of the much loved Downton Abbey TV series, which opens its doors exclusively for our customers on Monday 10th December.
visit the award-winning Bath Christmas Market. Set against stunning backdrops such as Bath abbey, the market is the perfect way to take in the seasonal atmosphere.
Home to the Carnarvon family since 1679, the current castle is one of England’s most beautiful Victorian castles and at this time of year will be seasonally festooned with garlands on the staircase and a 22ft tree in the Salon. Walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters and explore what it is like behind the scenes of the ‘real Downton Abbey’ at a magical time of year. We’ll also
Your Break Includes Return coach travel 99 1 night bed and breakfast at our 99 selected hotel
Visit to Bath Christmas Market 99 Exclusive visit to Highclere Castle 99 Tailor-made visits en route 99
E
Other Festive Breaks • Turkey & Tinsel • New Year in London and Dine & Cruise • Thursford Christmas Spectacular • André Rieu in Liverpool, Nottingham or Glasgow
Christmas Markets • Bath & Blenheim • Durham & Beamish • York & Chatsworth • Grassington & Manchester
justgoholidays.com 01242 265748 ● groups@jgtravelgroup.com Call our experienced, friendly groups team today for more information, or just for a chat Coach package holidays and short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions which are based on and protected by the Bonded Coach Holiday Group Trading Charter. Terms and conditions can be viewed at www.justgoholidays.com. All holidays offered are subject to availability and prices to fluctuation. Errors & omissions excepted. Single supplements apply.
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The gateway
Alps to the
PIXABAY
8
reasons to get excited about Geneva...
Words: Sam Bradley
W
what treasures the City of Peace had in
free (for tourists – just make sure you get your
store for me. And after a busy holiday in the
Geneva Transport Card from your hotel).
E LIVE IN an age where sensational
city, which has twice won the ‘Best Leading
newspaper headlines are a dime a
City Break Destination’ award, here are my
dozen, and anyone with a Twitter account and an opinion can broadcast just about anything at the click of a button. With excitement building for my
upcoming trip to Geneva, I bravely decided
eight reasons why it’s well worth a visit...
1
THE TRANSPORT’S GREAT I know this doesn’t sound terribly
2
YOU’LL LOVE THE GENEVA PASS
I’m not the overly sentimental type, but I think I fell in love with the Geneva Pass. No more paging through guidebooks trying to find
important, but good transport is like
the must-do items, or meandering aimlessly
to research a few articles on the city.
contraception: if you don’t think about it, you
through streets hoping to stumble across an
But this turned out to be a bad idea,
could be in for a whole lot of expense later
attraction. The Geneva Pass can be bought
as opinions ranged from ‘awesome’ to
on. Thankfully, Geneva has an exceptional
for one, two or three days and costs between
‘boring’ to ‘expensive’ to ‘beautiful’.
transport system, and manages a network
CHF 26 and 45. It includes over 50 activities
of trains, buses, trams and boats with, well,
(some free, some at discounted prices) and
Swiss-like efficiency. Best of all, transport is
will encourage you to see as many attractions
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Switzerland
Geneva is nicknamed the ‘gateway to the Alps’, with Lausanne, Chamonix Mont Blanc and Annecy all less than an hour’s drive away
as possible. Activities range from guided walks
from the Roman times, then explore the main
and lake cruises to free tickets to museums;
cathedral, which played an important role in
locals walking along the lake front, swimming,
it really does turn the city into your oyster.
the spiritual reformation in the 1500s, and
relaxing at one of the coffee shops or catching
finally finish off by climbing the 157 steps to
a taxi boat to the other side. The iconic Jet
the top of the towers to enjoy the panoramic
d’eau fountain pushes 132 gallons of water
views over the city and lake.
140 metres into the air every second, and
3
YOU’LL ALSO LOVE THE OLD TOWN
Geneva was founded as a Roman settlement as early as the second century, and during the Middle Ages it became an important trading town. Exploring the cobbled streets and
4
IT’S GOT A MIGHTY FINE LAKE Every city needs a centre point as its soul,
and seeing as Geneva is built on the shores of
When the weather is good expect to find
makes a great backdrop for holiday photos.
5
IT’S RATHER CLASSY From as long ago as the Middle Ages,
winding walkways of the old town, you can’t
one of the largest freshwater lakes in Europe,
Geneva gained a reputation as a wealthy city,
help but appreciate the history of this national
you won’t have any difficulty finding this one.
with many skilled artisans and professionals
heritage site. The cathedral of St Pierre is the
The city has the historic old town on the left
making it their home – for example the area is
best place to take a trip through the ages: start
shore and the international town on the right,
the birthplace of fine watchmaking. As a result,
with a tour of the archaeological foundations
with the picturesque lake always in the centre.
it’s a great place to enjoy luxurious cultural WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Switzerland
PIXABAY
With a population of less than half a million, Geneva is the world’s smallest metropolis
GET ME THERE: experiences and fine living. There are plenty of renowned art galleries, opera houses and museums in the city, and theatres present a wide range of shows, from ballet dances to plays to comedy nights. The downside is that Geneva is not a
A free tour of the Red Cross museum is also included in the Geneva Pass.
7
IT’S RATHER RELAXING For most people, the word ‘city’ instantly
■ easyJet
and Swiss Air offer daily flights
from London to Geneva. ■ The
Hotel Cornavin is well located close
to the main train station and city centre. Enjoy some of its quirky attractions
conjures up images of crowds, traffic jams,
– it has the world’s largest mechanical
cheap place to explore (it has been rated
pollution and stress. Geneva is different. With
clock, and is the only hotel to have
as one of the world’s five most expensive
a population of less than half a million, it’s the
appeared in the Tintin comic books series
cities). However, there are plenty of free
world’s smallest metropolis, and to top it off
– as well as the restaurant on the eighth
and cheaper activities to enjoy, and a wide
more than a quarter of the city is made up
floor with views out over the city. See
range of accommodation options available,
of beautiful parks and gardens. A few times
fassbindhotels.ch/hotel/cornavin-geneve
including a well-rated backpacker’s hostel.
I had to remind myself this is not a scenic little
■ For
Swiss village, but actually a capital city (and
Geneva see www.geneve.com/en/
6
IT’S ALSO RATHER COSMOPOLITAN
more on public transport in
a rather important one at that). Geneva has a
good-to-know/free-public-transport
cosmopolitan feel to it – roughly 40% of the
■ For
Geneva isn’t called the City of Peace for
city’s population were not born in Switzerland
www.geneve.com
nothing. One of the free activities on
– and there are a wide range of diverse pubs
the Geneva Pass is an open bus tour of
and restaurants.
International Geneva, which is a great way for those with short attention spans to see some important international buildings – and still be done in time for lunch.
8
IT’S THE GATEWAY TO THE ALPS
more on the city itself, see
nothing, so once you’ve explored the city there are plenty of great destinations within easy reach of a day trip that are also well worth
Most travellers to Geneva head straight
seeing. Lausanne, with its lakeside promenades,
Some of the famous organisations with
from the airport to the mountains, foolishly
Chamonix Mont Blanc (the highest summit
headquarters in the city include the United
bypassing the chance to explore an exciting
in Western Europe) and Annecy (nicknamed
Nations, The World Economic Forum and
city. Not you, wise reader. However, Geneva is
‘Venice of the Savoie’ for its canals) are all less
the World Health Organization.
not nicknamed the ‘gateway to the Alps’ for
than an hour’s drive from Geneva.
GTW
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Enjoy the bright lights
The Glow illuminations at RHS Garden Wisley
With Christmas fast approaching (yes, really!) we explore 2018’s exciting festive line-up across the UK
Terrace Room, either on a shared or exclusive use basis for up to 50 people, while festive lunches and afternoon teas are also on the menu. Prices are from £12.20 per person (again, if there are 10 or more of you), with festive afternoon tea from £10.50 each.
F
Private guided walks of Wisley or Rosemoor OUR MONTHS. THAT’S all it is
Christmas officially starts on November
until Christmas. So we’ve not gone
16, with its after-dark Glow events
garden can be added for just £3 each. “Our winter events offer really memorable
mad this issue, throwing a few photos
illuminating the gardens – complete with
day out for groups, as well as representing great
of Santa into the mix. It really is time
special ‘Glow’ suppers for groups – as
value for money,” says Melissa Hackney, groups
to get going on your festive plans!
well as festive cream teas. Spiced scones
marketing manager for RHS Gardens. “There’s
with orange and cranberry jam, anyone?
no additional charge for the illuminations, free
Where to start? How about a garden visit. Not the usual port of call in deep
Prices start at just £9.50 per person if you
mid-winter, granted – but they do things
pre-book and go in a group of 10 or more,
differently at the RHS. The garden charity’s
with festive afternoon tea £6.25 each.
four stunning gardens are go-to venues
At the RHS’ flagship garden, Wisley in
all year round, and their Christmas line up
Surrey (see page 48 for more), Christmas
of events just gets better every year.
starts on December 1, and again the grounds
At RHS Garden Rosemoor in Devon,
are set to Glow. Groups can dine in the
parking and RHS members can get in for free. “What’s more, by taking advantage of our special offer, if groups have already visited an RHS Garden this year, a second visit to any RHS Garden is available at 50%.” To find out more call 020 7821 3170, email groups@rhs.org.uk or visit rhs.org.uk/groups
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Feeling festive? Planning a Christmas trip? Coach Buddy is the essential platform for coach operators, tour planners, group travel organisers, tour guides, attractions and destinations. See coachbuddy .org.uk
Get set for Christmas
2018
Glasgow’s The Forge Market Here’s a fact about Glasgow you may not know: it’s home to Scotland’s largest indoor market. The Forge Market, in the city’s East End, was the first of its kind when it opened 23 years ago – all indoor, all centrally heated, and all geared up to offer fantastic value and choice. Today, its traders sell everything from jewellery to food and clothing. And added to that are coffee shops, cafes, restaurants – even sit-on rides and bouncy castles! Just 10 minutes from the centre, the market’s open Thursday to Sunday. The ideal place to kick-start your Christmas shopping, find out more about its festive special events at forgemarket.co.uk
Enjoy a relaxing festive break Combine a Christmas shopping trip in the historic city of Cambridge with a stay at the plush Quy Mill Hotel & Spa at nearby Stow-cum-Quy. This
See our sister site grouptraveloffers .com to book your stay at Quy Mill Hotel & Spa!
former watermill is the only hotel in Cambridgeshire to be awarded the AA’s coveted Silver Star award.
Christmas at Marwell Zoo Dine with the elves, join Mother Christmas
Hampshire attraction has hundreds of animals,
for storytime, and grab a special gift from
including giraffes, tigers and penguins, who
Santa... it’s all happening at Marwell Zoo
call the 140-acre park home. It’s owned by
this Christmas, as its festive celebrations
leading conservation charity Marwell Wildlife,
roar into action from November 18.
and open every day bar Christmas Day and
As well as Santa and his crew this
Boxing Day. Find out more at marwell.org.uk
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Feeling festive?
3
NEW FOR 2018!
of the best
Christmas markets
1
St Albans Christmas Festival
The cathedral city of St Albans in Hertfordshire is offering families and groups a completely new Christmas experience this year with the launch of its first-ever winter festival. The Meraki Christmas Festival launches on November 30, running until December 22 every Tuesday to Sunday (and opening later every Thursday to Saturday). Free to enter, expect exclusive Santa experiences, ice skating, funfair rides, an ice bar and a three-tier tipi bar. The Meraki Christmas Movie House will be showing a selection of much-loved Christmas classics and there’ll be a food court, complete with live music. Not forgetting the shopping of course, which is set to be pretty special too as the festival will be hosting the St Albans Christmas Market. Go to enjoystalbans.com to plan your visit.
Enjoy Christmas, St Albans-style
2
Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market
Winchester Cathedral’s
And another thing... Once
3
Bury’s awardwinning market
Bury Market, in the heart of the
It offers 19 free coach parking
town’s centre, is one of the most
spots, a free £5 coach drivers’
Christmas Market in Hampshire
you’ve checked out the market,
popular shopping destinations
lunch voucher, and a free to
is one of the best in Europe,
enjoy the best views over
in the North West. Attracting
use drop-off/pick-up point
with more than 100 chalets,
Winchester on a special rooftop
more than 1,500 coaches each
for coach passengers has now
an ice rink and an atmosphere
tour of the Cathedral tower
year, and with the majority of
been opened. The best days to
that rivals the traditional German
– followed by tea, coffee,
the markets’ 370 stalls being
organise trips are Wednesdays,
Christmas markets. Open
mulled wine and mince pies.
under cover, it makes a great
Fridays and Saturdays, when
place for groups to visit over
over 500 retailers are open.
every day from November 17
The tower tour costs £15
the festive period.
For further information
to December 20, admission is
each, and a special twilight
free (the ice rink will stay open
tower tour costs £20. For
until early January). Tickets are
more details and tickets, call
level and accessible to all, with
and a DVD of the market,
available from winchester-
01962 857275 or visit
disabled facilities centrally
call 0161 253 6520, email
cathedral.org.uk/christmas
winchester-cathedral.org.uk
located in the modern Market
burymarkets@bury.gov.uk
Hall and on the Open Market.
or see burymarket.com
The market is all on one
and to receive free leaflets
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Christmas in the heart of Caerphilly It’s never too early to get into the festive spirit!
T
he Caerphilly Christmas market - set in the old market town of Caerphilly, home of one of Europe’s largest medieval castles. With traditional funfair rides, the smell of mulled wine in the air, captivating street theatre and featuring over 100 food, craft and gift stalls, this magical market is a firm favourite both within Wales and beyond. Foodies will be in their element - stalls stacked high with delicious fresh produce including indulgent chocolate treats, tangy pickles and cheeses as well as an array of tempting tipples - the perfect accompaniments to any Christmas feast! Browse the marketplace to
discover a superb selection of jewellery and interesting gifts to fill up those Christmas stockings. A Farmers’ Market will also complement the town’s mixture of independent & high street stores. For further information visit www.caerphillychristmas market.co.uk Call the Events Team on 01443 866394 or email events@caerphilly.gov.uk Like Visit Caerphilly on Facebook and follow @visitcaerphilly on Twitter for regular updates on events and activities in the county borough.
CAERPHILLY CHRISTMAS MARKET Saturday 8th December 9am - 5pm
Sunday 9th December 10am - 4pm
Caerphilly Town Centre Just 8 miles North of Cardiff in the South Wales Valleys Free festive fun at its best! Coach tours welcome Fresh produce Tempting tipples Gifts galore All the fun of the fair
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT:
www.caerphillychristmasmarket.co.uk
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seats
Take your
PIXABAY
It wouldn’t be THAT time of year without a feel-good festive show to go to...
The Theatre Royal Winchester is going all out this winter. Its festive line-up includes family panto Beauty and the Beast; A Victorian Christmas with Robert Powell and Susan Jameson, and The Scummy Mummies Christmas Show. See theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk
The Snowman returns! Twinkling with festive spirit, Birmingham Repertory Theatre’s The Snowman returns for a record-breaking 21st year this winter at The Peacock Theatre in Holborn.
Aladdin at the Hackney Empire
Based on the book by Raymond Briggs
London’s famous Hackney Empire has
of a boy and his magical snowman.
and the film directed by Dianne Jackson, and produced by John Coates, the show transports the audience to a wintry world
announced that the Olivier Award-winning
With music and lyrics by Howard Blake
Grande Dame of pantomime, Clive Rowe,
– including the now-famous Walking
is set to return to the East End stage for the
in the Air – the show is a mix of dance,
theatre’s 2018 pantomime.
spectacle and storytelling, with music
Clive last played the Dame at the Empire
performed by a live orchestra. It runs
back in 2015, and will be making his
anniversary pantomime production. The
from November 22 to January 6, 2019.
Hackney comeback this winter. This year,
show runs from November 24 to January
Find out more at peacocktheatre.com
the Hackney Empire also celebrates its 20th
6, 2019, see hackneyempire.co.uk
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Feeling festive? Christmas at the Curve
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas will be playing at Leicester’s Curve theatre from December 6 to January 13. 2019. To buy tickets for the musical call 0116 242 3595
On one ghostly night… The Royal Shakespeare Theatre in
or visit curveonline.co.uk
Stratford-upon-Avon is home to the classic A Christmas Carol from December 4 to January 20, 2019. David Edgar’s new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ much-loved story, it makes a welcome return to this famous theatre, see rsc.org.uk/a-christmas-carol For a quirky festive theatre trip, check out the Royal Shakespeare Company’s family-friendly exhibition The Play’s The Thing at the Swan Theatre in Stratfordupon-Avon. See costumes and props, try on virtual costumes, discover gory stage tricks and experience how RSC productions are staged through interactive hands-on activities. See rsc.org.uk/the-plays-the-thing And another thing... If you’re looking for a Christmas gift for that relative who really does have everything, consider RSC Gift Membership from £50 (which offers a number of yearlong exclusive benefits such as priority booking and regular newsletters) or RSC Gift Vouchers, which are valid for
Hit West End musical Wicked has announced
28 and 30, as well as January 3, 2019.
theatre tickets, theatre tours and more.
its festive performance schedule, with five
Tickets are now on sale. For full details see
Call 01789 403493 for details.
extra shows added on December 24, 27,
WickedTheMusical.co.uk
WIN!
Tickets for The Shard & Champagne Experience! Groups Direct, now officially known as The Group Experience & Travel Company, has expanded its range of UK theatre packages, days out, holidays and cruises, which are all featured in its new brochure. And any GTW magazine readers who register their interest for the brochure will be entered into a prize draw to win two tickets for The Shard & Champagne Experience. To enter, call The Group Experience & Travel Company team on 0800 049 8309
VISIT BRITAIN
PIXABAY
Simply Wicked
or email reservations@groupsdirect.co.uk
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Feeling festive?
Festive magic Spend an enchanting December evening at one of the UK’s top historic properties
E
NGLISH HERITAGE IS lighting up the
with a fern dell and an alpine garden, inspired
■ Witley Court and Gardens in
December darkness for groups this year,
by the travels of the estate’s wealthy
– once a Victorian country house famed for its
Victorian owners.
lavish parties, it was devastated during a fire in
with outdoor ‘Enchanted’ adventures on offer at five of its much-loved properties,
Worcestershire
1937 and the mansion ruin now stands as an
transforming the landscape into a magical wintry
■ Audley End House and Gardens,
near
world. Prepare to be dazzled at the following
Saffron Waldon in Essex. Within the grand
evocative backdrop to its 62 acres of stunning grounds. Highlights include the magnificent,
attractions this winter...
pastoral parkland that surrounds Audley End
restored Perseus and Andromeda Fountain, the
House, partly designed by Capability Brown,
restored colourful parterre gardens, extensive
■ Belsay Hall Hall,, Castle & Gardens in
are a unique early Victorian parterre and secret
wilderness and wildflower meadows, shady
Northumberland, where the Grade 1 listed
pond garden plus England’s most authentically
woodland walks with rhododendrons, and the
gardens are famed for their magnolias and
restored Walled Victorian Kitchen Garden.
nine-acre lake and waterfall.
rhododendrons (and home to the rare red squirrel). They feature formal and informal
■ Eltham Palace and Gardens in
gardens and a magical quarry garden, abundant
with 19 acres of beautiful moated gardens
Get me there
with exotic plants.
that contain a mix of rare elements of
A 15% discount applies for pre-booked
1930s garden design and the remains of the
groups of 11 or more at each site on
medieval palace. Highlights include a sunken
selected dates from December 6-22.
Yorkshire, with 15 acres of beautifully restored
rose garden, terraced beds, herbaceous borders,
See www.ticketmaster.co.uk/tmgroups
gardens, planted as they would have been
an extensive Westmorland limestone rockery
or call 0844 844 2121.
during the 1890s. They offer all-year interest,
and water features.
■ Brodsworth Hall & Gardens in
South
London,
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AT LABELS SHOPPING WO ME N | ME N S | F O O D | HO M E | G I F TS
FREE MEAL FOR COACH DRIVER
LABELS SHOPPING Ross On Wye, Herefordshire Sat Nav: HR9 7QQ Opening Times Monday - Saturday 10am - 5.30pm
Sunday 10:30am - 4.30pm
www.labelsshopping.co.uk | 01989 769 000
Feeling festive?
Party at the
Palace
backdrop of the palace. Within wooden chalets, the market will be filled with a
Plan your visit to this Oxfordshire gem at blenheim palace.com
This year, Blenheim is doing Christmas in style...
O
variety of hand-picked gifts, unique works by a range of designers and tempting treats for foodies.
CINDERELLA: A FESTIVE FAIRY TALE EXPERIENCE Between November 23 and January 6, 2019, here’s your chance to explore the State Rooms, seasonally decorated and
NE OF BRITAIN’S best-known and well-
this year’s winter trail through festive gardens
lavishly themed into the magical fairy tale
loved stately homes, Blenheim Palace in
will be brighter than ever before with lasers,
fantasy world of Cinderella. Wander through historic rooms filled with
Oxfordshire is a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
projections and thousands of twinkling
putting it in the same awe-inspiring category
pea-lights. Highlights include a new Field
hidden surprises, including the stepmother’s
as fellow sites The Great Barrier Reef and the
of Light, a scented Fire Garden, a Canopy of
drawing room set for afternoon tea, the
Pyramids of Egypt. Discover for yourself why
Light and the mesmerising voices of the
ugly sisters’ room scattered with clothes,
it’s so lauded on a group visit (its groups team
Singing Trees.
books and shoes, and Cinderella’s room,
is on hand to help you plan – email groups@ blenheimpalace.com or call 01993 815600). And to give you a feel for what the attraction has in store this festive season, read on...
ILLUMINATED CHRISTMAS TRAIL From November 23 to January 6, 2019,
NEW FOR 2018!
CHRISTMAS MARKET IN THE GREAT COURT
which is home to her delicate hand-made gown. Walk further into the crystal world of the Fairy Godmother, then along to the Prince’s grand room. Midnight strikes, the
Escape the bustle of the high street and
clocks all chime, and as the story ends,
soak up the festive atmosphere of Blenheim’s
hang your own wish upon the Wishing Tree
Christmas market set against the magnificent
in the romantically candlelit chapel...
PIXABAY
Blenheim Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
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st o l i r B l a r t n e C Broadmead,
9TH NOVEMBER - 23RD DECEMBER
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Magical Winter Atmosphere · Traditional Chalets Gifts & Presents · German Beer · Bratwurst & GlühWein
FP Template.indd 27
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Feeling festive?
TV’s Carol Klein
The spectacular palace is a fantastic attraction, come summer – or Christmas...
FLOWER POWER As sparkling as Blenheim’s plans are as 2018 draws to a close, it shines all year round. GTW’s Jonathan Taylor enjoyed its Flower Show this summer – so maybe push your festive plans aside for a second and consider 2019 trips too!
T
HE SUNNY DAYS of summer 2018...
resist a few new plants for our garden (which
perfect for garden lovers, and so my
are now thriving I am pleased to say). I suppose
partner Sarah and I decided to have a nice
in many ways the show is a bit like a very big
drive over to Blenheim Palace Flower Show
garden centre, but with more experts on hand.
in Oxfordshire to see how the show’s developing in its sixth year. Of course, it was a hot sunny day, so parking
Where it differs from the average garden centre was evident in the main show marquee, where the entrants and winners of the various
The group-friendly Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
on the grassland in the grounds of Blenheim
competitions had their plants on display.
Palace was no problem. Through the ticket
Some were spectacular, some were fun,
barriers was a big range of stands, displays
some were too brash for my taste and some
and show marquees.
were just exquisite. But they were all good
not enough seating to make the lunch or
to see and enjoy.
tea stop a pleasant experience.
Carol Klein (from the BBC Gardeners’ World television programme) was there to talk about
Among the stands we visited the Cotswold
Overall, this event is growing each year
the show and answer gardeners’ questions.
Wildlife Park (which takes the garden side of its
and of course the location is stunning. You
To her credit, she gave a lot of time to this both
park very seriously and is worth a visit for that
could spend a happy two or three hours at
on and off stage, chatting happily to lots of
as well as the wildlife). Its stand was an attractive,
the event, and another happy two or three
gardeners with problems and opportunities.
busy place, with its staff full of information and
hours walking around Blenheim Park. The
interesting facts about the park and its gardens.
palace itself is a world-class bonus cherry on
Find out more at cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
the top if a garden experience isn’t enough
The show was easy to navigate round. For my taste, it had too many lifestyle and gift stands, but there were plenty of plant stands of all varieties to enjoy as well. We couldn’t
One downside was the catering. There were lots of fun catering vehicles and options, but
for you. For more on next year’s show see blenheimflowershow.co.uk
GTW
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Take a fresh look at
CHRISTMAS MARKET 2018 SATURDAY 17 NOVEMEBER - THURSDAY 20 DECEMBER
Shop online at
Fleetwoodmarket.co.uk F leetw
Explore one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, renowned for its spectacular location, high quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere.
Meet and Greet Service with SPECIAL OFFERS on -bo pre oked coach trips
A traditional market with over 200 stalls A shopper’s delight for gifts, clothing and household goods Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday all year round, 9am - 4.30pm, also open August Bank Holiday Each coach driver receives a meal & drink voucher from the market café on arrival Drivers receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win £100 in cash in a monthly draw! Free coach parking Offer available for parties of 20+ only
Free admission for groups with advanced booking recommended. Extend your visit with a tour of the magnificent Winchester Cathedral from just £6 per person. Contact us | visits@winchester-cathedral.org.uk | 01962 857 225 www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk
/FleetwoodMarket @FleetwoodMkt
Proud winners of Market Innovation of the Year Award 2017 Victoria Street / Adelaide Street, Fleetwood, Lancashire FY7 6AB Tel: 01253 887651
The Forge Market T
he Forge Market is one of Glasgow’s many hidden treasures servicing the city for the last 23 years and is Scotland’s largest indoor market. This atmospheric, family friendly market is located in the east-end of Glasgow, near Parkhead Cross and within easy walking distance of Duke Street and London Road. It is open Thursday to Sunday, 10.00am – 5.00pm with FREE car parking, ATM and Wi-Fi and is also serviced by extensive public transport. The Forge Market features 180 stalls all under one roof offering a wide variety of quality goods, services and repairs; from high street fashion, home improvements, furnishings, electrical goods, toys, beauty, grooming, mobility, health and well-being, hobbies,
celebrations, gifts, fresh food and produce, home baking, newsagents, confectionaries, pet care, cobbler, clothing alterations, memorials, lottery kiosk, amusement arcade and much much more! Take a break and relax in one of our many eating establishments serving
food and drink, catering for all tastes. So whether you are Christmas shopping or thinking of starting or expanding your business the Forge Market is the place to be. For further information find us on our Web and Facebook
pages for up-to-date details on Christmas opening times, offers and events.
Feel
illuminated!
Head to Longleat this autumn and make a voyage of discovery as darkness falls...
T
scene the trio can be found exploring wondrous locations, from the exotic to the glacial. The festive fun continues with an enchanted Christmas Tree Show, Longleat House dressed for a 1920s Christmas, and the Santa Train.
HIS YEAR, LONGLEAT’S hugely popular
as darkness falls. 2018’s theme is an expedition
You can also enjoy Longleat’s famous animal
Festival of Light will take visitors on a voyage
around the world, journeying through time and
attractions, including the safari drive-through.
of discovery, with more than 645 lanterns
space with three new characters, Harry and Bea
lighting up 30 acres of landscaped grounds
and their fearless terrier, Monty. In each lantern
The festival runs on selected dates from November 9, and is included in a
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Light shows
group Festival of Light day ticket (adult group prices start at £24.40), and special rates are available for 12 or more. Booking is essential – call 01985 844328, email groups@longleat.co.uk, and find out more about this Wiltshire attraction at longleat.co.uk. And just to give you a taste of what’s in store, here are some images from last year’s light extravaganza... WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Light shows
Trip the light fantastic Angela Youngman visits a French theme park like no other. Welcome to the magical, unique spectacle that is the Puy du Fou
I
GET ME THERE ■ Located
at Les Epesses, an hour
south of Nantes, you can stay on site at Puy Du Fou at the Cité Nocturne. ■ There
are a range of unusual hotels
– choose from a medieval citadel, a Roman themed logis, a hotel on stilts reminiscent of a fifth century Frankish village or, as we did, in the stunningly
MAGINE SITTING IN an arena as the
beautiful Drap D’Or medieval tents.
sky fills with countless vultures, falcons,
■ Language
is not a problem throughout
eagles and owls, all twisting and wheeling
the park, as translation devices can be
in an aerial ballet. A flock of geese follow a
obtained from the information centre
microlight and eagles descend from a hot air
within the park, ensuring you understand
balloon. Close by, Romans conduct chariot
every word spoken in the displays.
races, the Round Table rises out of a lake,
■ Obtaining
Andalucian horses cavort around barefoot
time events is recommended, as this
flamenco dancers, and dejected soldiers walk
provides access to guaranteed seating in
through a snowy landscape... This is Puy du
the best positions at all the top events.
an Emotion pass for the day
Fou, French theme park extraordinare. Over a million visitors come to Puy du Fou every year – and there’s not a roller-coaster
to young and old alike. It’s a feast for the
or screaming ride in sight. This is a unique
senses in every way, as music, dance, light
Elsewhere, Les Musketeers, complete with
theme park appealing
and theatre combine to create incredible
dramatic battles, is performed on a massive
spectacles. Fast paced, every show lasts
stage with 70 metre high curtains.
around 30 to 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore all the attractions on offer.
HISTORY AND LEGEND
During the summer, Puy du Fou is home to an incredible evening spectacle known as Cinéscénie (tickets for this event have to be bought separately). It changes
Each show has its own emotional storyline,
every year, but always sets out to re-
with tales of love and magic based on local
tell aspects of the Vendée’s history.
history and legends, and not all are outdoors.
This is spectacle in a big way – over 3,500
Le Dernier Panache occupies a 360°
volunteers take part, together with hundreds
auditorium, and circles around as you watch
of animals. There’s music, fireworks, light
the story of François Charette de la Contrie
shows, drama, illuminations all set against the
amid the horrors of the French Revolution.
panorama of a lake, chateau and houses.
GTW
Puy du Fou is based in the heart of the Vendée region of western France, see puydufou.com/en
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King Richard III Visitor Centre: Dynasty Death and Discovery D
iscover the incredible and controversial story of England’s lost king at Leicester’s award-winning city centre attraction. The award-winning Centre tells the incredible story of the king’s life and death and reveals one of the greatest archaeological detective stories ever told. The King Richard III Visitor Centre is an ideal destination for groups, offering preferential group rates. There is a dedicated booking office and all groups are met on arrival by a member of the Visitor Centre team. A range of catering, talks and tour packages are available to groups of 15+ and entry is free for tour leaders and coach drivers. A free familiarisation visit is also offered.
NEW FOR 2018 AND EXCLUSIVELY FOR GROUPS: Christmas Past & Present Join us this Christmas and step back in time to discover Christmas past and present. On arrival, groups will be welcomed with tea or coffee served with gingerbread or stollen, followed by a short talk on what Christmas was like in medieval times compared to how we celebrate today and the opportunity to spend time making Christmas decorations. It’s then time to visit our awardwinning exhibition and your visit would be completed with a traditional Christmas lunch. The package price is just £22.50 per person (minimum of 15 people) – call 0116 229 4132 to book. The King Richard III Visitor Centre is an ideal destination for groups, offering:
• Preferential group rates and dedicated booking office • Catering, talks and tour packages • Free entry for tour leader and coach driver • Free familiarisation visit The friendly bookings team can also arrange visits to Leicester Cathedral, adjacent to the Visitor Centre and now home to King Richard III’s tomb. To book or for more information visit: www. kriii.com or call our Group Booking Office on 0116 229 4132 Press visits for review purposes are available, please contact emma.lay@kriii.com Notes for Editors: The Visitor Centre was commissioned by Leicester City Council and opened
in July 2014. It is run by an independent charitable trust made up of experts in business, finance, and heritage and visitor attractions. The Visitor Centre is a notfor-profit organisation and any surplus generated is re-invested to further the education and learning in the history and story of King Richard III. King Richard III Visitor Centre 4A St Martin’s, Leicester LE1 5DB Tel: 0300 300 0900 Email: info@kriii.com Website: www.kriii.com Twitter: @kriiicentre Facebook: facebook.com/ kriiicentre For more information contact Emma Lay King Richard III Visitor Centre Marketing Manager emma.lay@kriii.com
It’s a
jungle out there…
These guys have cause to celebrate as they’ve just moved into a new £3.5 million habitat at Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire
WORDS: HELEN MILBANK
T
was designed with this in mind; providing a larger, more complex space for our chimps to interact together,” she says. And having opened earlier this summer, it’s already proving a hit – with the chimps swinging, climbing and playing through the indoor and
HE LOOK ON their faces says it all. As
in husbandry to prepare our troop of
they explore their new state-of-the-art
chimpanzees to live together,” says Dr Sharon
outdoor sections of this jungle-like habitat.
home at Twycross Zoo, these chimpanzees
Redrobe OBE, CEO of Twycross Zoo. “All
A LIVING SANCTUARY
are together as a group for the first time
of the team here are thrilled with the result
At 11m high, the semi-translucent, three-
in the zoo’s history. Their new pad, called
but, more importantly, the chimpanzees are
storeys tall habitat features tropical and
Chimpanzee Eden, is the culmination of a
thoroughly enjoying their new home.”
native shrubs, with glazing and openings that
£3.5 million vision to create a habitat that
As Dr Redrobe explains, the dream has
allow visitors to see the chimps close up. It’s
will enrich the animals’ life and allow all of the
always been to see all the animals living and
decked with imagery of chimps and forests
zoo’s chimps to live together as one troop.
behaving as closely to how they would in the
in Cameroon, where the zoo’s partner, Ape
“We’ve dedicated years in the thinking,
wild. “We place a strong emphasis on creating
Action Africa, works to rescue and protect
naturalistic habitats, and Chimpanzee Eden
chimpanzees and gorillas.
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Days out Look, no hands...
Visit Chimpanzee Eden for yourself this autumn
Is this really all mine?!
“Zoos like Twycross are living sanctuaries, playing a vital role in conservation, as many species across the world face an extinction crisis in
See these gorgeous chimps for yourself at Twycross Zoo, visit twycrosszoo.org or call 0844 474 1777
the wild,” adds Dr Redrobe. “By providing a symbolic ‘ark’ not only do zoos take care of endangered animals, but they participate in carefully coordinated, international breeding
AMBITIOUS PLANS Chimpanzee Eden is
The chimps’ new multi-million poun d habitat allows visitors to get close up
part of Twycross Zoo’s
And another thing...
ambitious £55m plan
■ Chimpanzees
to become a national conservation organisation and world-class visitor attraction. Already it’s home
to more than 500 animals from around 125 species. “I hope our founders, Miss Badham and
resemble us humans more
than any other animal on the planet, and share 98.5% of our genetic DNA. ■ In
the wild, they live in large social
communities, led by a dominant male. ■ They’re
one of the few groups of
animals known to use tools to assist their daily life, using stones to break open nuts
programmes. This vital work ensures there are
Miss Evans, would be proud, and I thank
and sticks to pick up insects.
genetically healthy, self-sustaining populations
them for their legacy, which made building
■ As
to provide the potential to ‘re-wild’ these
this possible,” adds Dr Redrobe. “We look
Twycross is also home to lemurs, giraffes,
species in the future. The bottom line is that
forward to more chimps arriving in the
zebra, kangaroos, monkeys, birds, reptiles
we need to protect, invest and support good
coming years and continuing our reputation
and more.
zoos if we want the natural world to survive.”
as international experts in ape care.”
well as its troop of lovely chimps,
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02/08/2018 11:23
A world of insights revealed 5,000 exhibitors ready to inspire and help grow your business Register now at
london.wtm.com
Follow us #IdeasArriveHere
Days out
Meet Longleat’s famous lion pack
The call of the wild
Jurassic Park just got real If you’ve ever fancied visiting Jurassic Park,
their mighty mouths, have an uncanny way
but don’t much like the idea of being chased
of making you feel slightly more intimidated
by renegade dinosaurs, look no further
than you thought you would.
than West Midland Safari Park’s Land of the
WMSP’s four-mile self-drive safari,
Set in 900 acres of pristine Wiltshire gardens,
Living Dinosaurs. This immersive walking trail
Discovery Trail exhibits, animal encounters,
designed by Capability Brown, Longleat
features 38 state-of-the-art animatronic
African Village and live shows are all included
Safari Park is famed for being the first
dinosaurs which, thanks to the way they puff
in the ticket price. Find out more about this
drive-through safari park outside of Africa.
their cheeks, raise their ribs and roar through
Worcestershire attraction at wmsp.co.uk
Today, this huge animal attraction in the grounds of Longleat House (the stately home of the 7th Marquess of Bath) is home to
observing the park’s chief attractions: the
GO ON SAFARI
500 animals that can be viewed from the
lions, tigers and cheetahs. While a gentle jungle
With its drive-through safari, packs of big cats
comfort of your car or, if you prefer, from one
cruise boat ride offers a change of scene and a
and herds of giraffe, zebras, elephants, bongos
of the park’s safari buses or VIP 4x4s.
chance to spot hippos and sea lions.
and more, Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire
While it’s possible to feed deer from your
See longleat.co.uk for the latest on the
vehicle and even get out and see giraffes and
park’s year-round special events, including the
zebras on foot in the African Village area,
back-by-popular-demand Festival of Light,
you’ll need to stay safely stowed away when
which launches on November 9 (see page 30).
has been keeping animal lovers entertained since the early 1970s. But whether your group are keen to eat their sandwiches under the watchful eye of WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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02/08/2018 11:23
Days out a Barbary Macaque (the monkeys are notorious for clinging on to coach and car windows), or come face to face with an
Hundreds of donkeys, mules and hinnies have been helped by the team at The Donkey Sanctuary
Amur tiger, the park’s now as famous for its conservation and breeding projects as it is for its exotic residents. From its daily talks and demonstrations to its work with the European Endangered Species Program, Woburn strives to educate visitors and plays a key role in a number of conservation projects – working alongside the world’s best-known zoos to help fund and contribute to scientific research. Find out more at woburnsafari.co.uk
DON’T GET SNAPPY! As the UK’s only crocodile zoo, Oxfordshire’s Crocodiles of the World offers a rare glimpse PIXABAY
into the lives of these prehistoric creatures. Go as a group of 20 or more to this unique all-weather attraction in the heart of the Cotswolds and enjoy talks, feeding displays
voted in the top 10 best family days out in
to do, with a maze and outdoor play area
and more – with 10% off the standard
Devon by the Daily Telegraph. Set on the
for children and guided walks. Groups are
admission price. Parking’s free and you can
spectacular Jurassic Coast, the sanctuary
well catered for, with a drop-off zone at the
dine in the croc café. Where else could you
homes more than 500 donkeys, mules and
entrance for parties and a restaurant, called
hold a real life baby crocodile and even help
hinnies (the offspring of a male horse and a
The Kitchen, providing breakfast, lunch and
feed one? See crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk
female donkey, in case you were wondering).
cream teas. Plus you can also book an expert
Founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen,
guide for a 40-minute tour.
AND FINALLY...
MBE, it’s an international charity whose
Charitable attractions don’t come any hairier
mission is to transform the lives of donkeys,
thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/visit-us/sidmouth
than The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth,
mules and people worldwide. There’s plenty
to plan your visit.
Entry’s free and it’s open all year round. See GTW
Woburn is home to four Amur tigers
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WINTER TRIPS Perfect for the festive months, avoid the cold and see the sights!
FESTIVE SPECIALS Inc. Mulled Wine and Mince Pies FREE Information Pack For Coach Operators & Group Organisers FREE Coach Drivers Lunch Voucher Situated Just Off Junction 2 Of The M66 Coach Drop Off/Pick Up Point adjacent to the market Disabled facilities FREE dedicated Coach Parking
Awarded Best UK Market Attraction of 2015 by NABMA
WARM WINTER RIVER CRUISES Inc. Tea or Coffee
HEATED SALOON CALM WATERS ASSURED
BEAUTIFUL SIGHTS
FREE coach parking
2014 National Coach Tourism Awards Winner
Group discounts available
Visit us any Wednesday, Friday or Saturday for a great day out Bury Market Management: Tel: 0161 253 6520 Web: www.burymarket.com Email: burymarkets@bury.gov.uk : @BuryMarket SatNav BL9 0BJ
FULLY LICENSED BAR
FIND US
Exmouth Marina, Exmouth, EX8 1DS. 15mins off the M5.
01395 222144 info@stuartlinecruises.co.uk
www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk
SAVE UP TO
£150 off brochure prices
PLUS
FREE PLACES
*
Amazing savings for groups of 10 or more†
discover MORE WITH FRIENDS
With more than 100 years’ experience providing sociable walking and activity holidays we’re the perfect choice for exploring the UK, Europe and the World. Knowledgeable leaders, delicious food and a choice of 18 UK country houses in areas of outstanding natural beauty give you an unforgettable holiday. For those travelling further afield we carefully select our partner hotels to ensure you have the best base for your holiday, providing an authentic taste of your chosen destination. ORDER YOUR BROCHURE TODAY
hfholidays.co.uk/groups 0345 470 7557
*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.
TEN best
DAYS OUT FOR FAMILIES AND GROUPS
of the
Steam through the UK’s best attractions, from world-famous film props to sky-high landmarks
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Days out We’ve got a train to catch...
1 Step onto Platform 9¾
Explore the wonders of the wizarding world
Harry Potter fans will be in their element at
the films’ original costumes and props. Running until September 23, The Goblet of
the award-winning Warner Bros Studio Tour in Hertfordshire, which uncovers the making
Fire is a special feature dedicated entirely to
of the eight Harry Potter films and brings the
the fourth instalment of the magical film series,
magic to life.
revealing the secrets behind the characters,
Explore the real sets used in the films as
costumes and props. After that comes Dark
you stand on Platform 9 3/4 and have your
Arts (from September 28 to November 10),
picture taken by the Hogwarts Express.
followed by Hogwarts in the Snow (from
Then visit the Great Hall and Forbidden
November 17 to January 27, 2019).
Forest, walk along the cobbled Diagon Alley
■ Group
with its wizarding shops, and see many of
of 10 or more, see wbstudiotour.co.uk
discounts are available for parties
Knebworth House: home to 500 years of history (and the occasional rock band)
2 Party in the park
Get set to rock out at Knebworth
Knebworth House in Hertfordshire is loved
more of you. Email groupbookings@
by all ages, from rock concert-goers to young
knebworthhouse.com for details.
kids keen to explore the Dinosaur Trail and
■ Find
out more at knebworthhouse.com
Adventure Playground (there’s also a sculpture trail in the formal gardens, and the 250-acre
And another thing... Knebworth has
Knebworth Park is home to red and Sika deer).
been hosting concerts since 1974, with
But it’s the house that really wows, in all its
The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin,
Tudor-in-parts glory.
Queen, Oasis and Robbie Williams just
House tours are included in the price
some of the acts who’ve appeared.
of admission, and special group tours
This month sees its Cool Britannia festival
can be arranged – even outside of the
(from August 31 to September 2).
usual opening times if there are 20 or
See coolbritanniafest.com WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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02/08/2018 11:30
Days out
3 All at sea
Navigate the world’s oceans, while staying on dry land
The National Maritime Museum is great in
Captain James Cook’s last voyage and learn
so many ways, not least because it’s filled
about the real life pirates of the Caribbean...
Greenwich site, home to the Cutty Sark,
with stories of exploration at sea that have
And while the museum’s free to explore,
Queen’s House and the Royal Observatory.
formed the world we live in today. Discover
invest in a great value guided tour to find out
■ Find
the forgotten fighters who were part of
even more (see the website for details).
Greenwich has to offer at rmg.co.uk
It’s all part of the fantastic Royal Museums
out more about all Royal Museums
The flags say it all... The National Maritime Museum is free to visit
Step back in time Discover what life was like for the people of the North East in the 1800s at the
4 Discover an ‘earthly paradise’ Experience gardening on the grandest scale
award-winning Beamish in County
Created by Lord Cobham in the grounds of
lakes, bridges, temples and follies, and were
Durham, which is currently undergoing
his family home, with the help of landscape
created as an earthly paradise. Take one of the
a multi-million pound revamp.
designers – including of course the ever-
free introductory tours to really get to know
Joe the quilter’s cottage – the first
popular Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown – Stowe
the attraction’s history, and see the website for
building in the museum’s £18 million
Gardens in Buckinghamshire is a living legacy
details of the year-round special events.
Remaking Beamish project – has
of Georgian England.
■ Groups
now opened in the museum’s 1820s
The 250 acres are filled with winding paths,
of 15 or more get a discount, see
nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe
Landscape. The cottage is a recreation of the ‘lost’ home of renowned Georgian quilter Joseph Hedley, who was murdered in 1826, in an appalling crime that shocked the nation. Find out more at beamish.org.uk
5 Can you break the code? Make like a wartime secret agent
Home to the famous British code-breaking
attraction
operation during the Second World War,
on selected
Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire played a
weekend
The Mary Rose now resides safe and dry
major role in determining the outcome of the
dates until
on Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard, which
war. It has since become a major attraction,
the end of the
is home to several impressive naval ships.
and its significance was dramatised in the film
year (see the
There are discounted rates for groups
The Imitation Game.
website for details), and its Bond at Bletchley
High and dry
of 15 or more – opt for a ticket solely
The museum’s exhibits include Hitler’s
Be a code breaker for the day
Park exhibition runs until October 14.
for the Mary Rose or buy a ticket to all
‘unbreakable’ cipher machine, a fully
■ Group
attractions on the dockyard – find out
operational Bombe machine used to break
booked groups of 12 or more, plus there’s
more at maryrose.org
Enigma, and a gallery of the life of Alan Turing.
free entry for the group organiser and coach
Plus you can enjoy afternoon tea at the
driver, see bletchleypark.org.uk
discounts are available for pre-
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DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW
every time you visit
Groups go further at Eden
For bookings and enquiries: groups@edenproject.com | 01726 811903
edenproject.com
The Eden Project connects us with each other and the living world. Reg. charity no. 1093070 (The Eden Trust).
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07/08/2018 14:17
Days out
6 Taste the difference
It’s chocolate, but not as you know it
7 Dinosaur World Live
A Jurassic adventure, under the stars
At Cadbury World in the West Midlands children can take the Cadabra ride on board a Beanmobile (pictured here), before exploring the many fun chocolatey zones. While adult groups can opt
The award-winning Regent’s Park Open Air
for the nostalgia tour, which starts with a drive
Theatre first opened in 1932 and is now one
around Bournville in your coach, with a member
of the largest theatres in London. Voted London Theatre of the Year in
of Cadbury World’s heritage team on hand to explain how the ‘Factory in a Garden’ took shape.
The Stage Awards 2017, and celebrated
Next up is the Cadbury World exhibition for the
for its bold, dynamic productions,
Cadbury Story; see how Cadbury’s most popular
more than 140,000 people visit the
products are made, then watch chocolatiers
theatre each year during its 18-week
demonstrate traditional chocolate making skills.
season – come rain or shine.
■ Find out more at cadburyworld.co.uk
■ This
– and turn to page 100 for our mini review
new show Dinosaur World Live (which
(let’s just say the GTW team have well and truly
runs from August 14 until September 9).
blown their diets this month).
Find out more at openairtheatre.com
month sees the launch of interactive
VISIT BRITAIN
Views don’t come any better...
8
London’s world famous landmarks from the
Head for heights?
You’ll need it on a visit to The Shard...
open air sky deck on level 72. Fully interactive digital telescopes and multimedia guides enable visitors to
Western Europe’s tallest building at 800ft
journey in the attraction’s high-speed lifts
experience the entire city like never before,
(244m), it has redefined London’s skyline,
that zoom from level one to level 68 in
and there are restaurants and bars serving
standing at almost twice the height of any
just 60 seconds.
other vantage point in London. Visitors can
Enjoy panoramic views of the capital from
everything from afternoon tea to fine cuisine. ■ Close
to London Bridge, find out
experience 360° views over the city for up to
The Shard’s level 69 observation deck,
more at www.the-shard.com or
40 miles on a clear day, after beginning their
glass of champagne in hand, or spot
theviewfromtheshard.com
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VISIT BEWL WATER
YOUR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Bewl Water is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty located in the heart of the High Weald. Home to 800 acres of scenic landscape made up of rustic woodland and an abundance of wildlife, as well as the largest stretch of water in the South East of England. There is plenty to see and do for all ages at Bewl Water. 800
ACRES OF STUNNING LANDSCAPE
RESTAURANT AMPLE
ON THE SHORELINE
PARKING AND COACH PARKING AVAILABLE BOAT
SCENIC HOST
TRIPS
WALKING ROUTES AND WATER TAXI
OF ACTIVITIES ON AND OFF THE WATER
BOAT TRIPS Boat Trip with Fish & Chips £16.50 per person Boat Trip with Afternoon Tea £20.00 per person Boat Trip with 2 Course Lunch £25.00 per person
info@bewlwater.co.uk 01892 890000 www.bewlwater.co.uk Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Kent, TN3 8JH FP Template.indd 45
09/08/2018 21:22
Days out
9 Be afraid!
It’s the bridge of sighs, moans and horror... See the iconic London Bridge as you’ve never seen it before at the London Bridge Experience & London Tombs. Hailed as the UK’s scariest attraction, and voted ‘Best Guided Tour’, this fun theatrical experience brings together history and horror. There’s been murder, intrigue, collapse and fire at London Bridge since it was first built in 53AD, and it has many a tale to tell. Become part of its gruesome history and travel back in time with notorious English characters, uncovering the dark secrets that lie beneath the world’s most haunted bridge. You will see, hear and even smell what London Bridge was like throughout the ages as you come face to face with Queen Boudica’s Iceni tribe and join them as they take on the Roman
Be an empire builder
army. You’ll also experience medieval life in the
At Legoland Windsor Resort in Berkshire, Ninjago World can take you on the
city, and be forced to walk the streets that were
attraction’s first ever 4D Ride (that means actually being able to feel what it’s like
terrorised by Jack the Ripper. While a visit to
to throw fire balls, shock waves, ice and lightning using nothing but your hands in
the London Tombs beneath London Bridge will
a battle against snake tribes, skeleton ghosts and ultimately a giant serpent known
see you descend into the bowels of hell...
as The Great Devourer). Pretty standard day out then...
■ Groups
■ Plan
of 15 or more get a discount, see
your trip at legoland.co.uk
thelondonbridgeexperience.com
C. GOETHEANUM
See the world of colour as never before
Just out of shot is a worried looking pigeon
A colourful new show School groups go free to a new hands-on exhibition exploring the art and science of colour at the Glasshouse Arts Centre in Stourbridge in the West Midlands. With more than 30 hands-on exhibits, displays and experiments, experienceCOLOUR is fun and
10
educational for all ages. It runs at the
Fighting talk
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre
centre until October 14, exploring the art and science of colour in the world around us (and exploring
Bosworth Battlefield in Leicestershire is the
the biggest events in our history – the Wars of
many themes linked to light and
site of one of the country’s most famous
the Roses. While Bosworth’s sister site is the
colour in the national curriculum).
battles, which resulted in Henry Tudor winning
equally-worth-a-visit 1620s House & Garden
■ To
the English crown from Richard III. Now, many
at Donington Le Heath.
email heritage@ruskinglasscentre.co.uk
centuries later, meet costumed characters and
■ Find out more at bosworthbattlefield.org.
or visit experienceCOLOUR.org
see real life artefacts as they interpret one of
uk and doningtonleheath.org.uk
find out more call 01384 399419, GTW
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Festivals, markets games, oh, my! With 2,000 years of history within easy reach, St Albans is the perfect place for a festive shopping trip
T
From the sublime to the side-splitting, don’t miss the hilarious, fun-packed family pantomime, Cinderella, at The Alban Arena. Starring Rachel Stevens (S Club 7), children’s favourite, Ben Faulks (cbeebies’ Mr Bloom) and local legend, Bob Golding. www.albanarena.co.uk/events/cinderella
On Wednesdays and Saturdays the centre of St Albans is alive with the bustle and calls of up to 150 traders in the venerable old Market. With a history that reaches back even further than the granting of its Charter in 1553, it has long defined this charming and characterful city. Nowadays you’ll find stalls selling everything from fish to fruit, foam to fascinators. A special extension of the Market is in place for the week leading to Christmas, so you can find gifts for everybody on your list on the Market every day from Sunday 16 December right up to Christmas Eve.
For more fantastic family fun, visit the Meraki Christmas Festival on the Events Meadow in Verulamium Park. For the first time this year, the St Albans Christmas Market is being hosted within a spectacular festival. So not only will you be able to shop for unique hand-made goods from picturesque wooden chalets, you’ll also be able to enjoy all the fun of the fair. This part of Verulamium Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland with rides, a spectacular virtual reality Santa’s grotto experience, Christmas movies, skating, an ice bar and much, much more. Check out www.merakifestival.com for more information.
St Albans Cathedral – dedicated to Britain’s first saint, Alban – is a wonderful place to take some time for reflection. Enjoy a festive group visit with special Christmas themed tours and the wonderful Carols on the Hour on Saturday 15th December. www.stalbanscathedral.org
Resplendent at the heart of the City in its newly restored glory is the St Albans Museum + Gallery. Its festive exhibition references a popular family pursuit for Christmas gettogethers. Game Plan: Board Games Rediscovered celebrates the joy, excitement and occasional frustration
he main shopping street in St Albans – St Peter’s Street – is transformed for the festive season. Trees wrapped in thousands of fairy lights provide a magical ambience to showcase some gorgeous shop window displays. Do look out for the special displays in shops participating in the daily advent calendar reveal.
FP Template.indd 47
of playing board games. This exhibition, originally displayed at the V&A’s Museum of Childhood, includes some of the most iconic, enthralling and visually striking games from the V&A’s outstanding national collection of board games. Alongside current family favourites such as Cluedo and Trivial Pursuit, and traditional games like chess, the exhibition will look at historical board games including The Game of the Goose and other beautifully designed games from the 18th and 19th centuries. Displayed at St Albans Museum + Gallery from November 2018 – to March 2019. www. stalbansmuseums.org.uk Don’t forget to drop into Verulamium Museum on your visit to St Albans this winter. With specially commissioned Christmas gifts in the museum shop, the rotunda and colonnade decked in Christmas lights and carol singers in the galleries, there’s so much on offer to help you get in the festive spirit For more information on what’s going on in St Albans at Christmas, go to www.enjoystalbans.com/ Christmas
09/08/2018 22:04
Days out
Just off the M25 near Woking, see rhs.org.uk/gardens/ wisley or call 020 7821 3170 to find out more
The garden is famous for its wisteria
Wonderful Wisley Indulge your love for plants with a great value, feel-good day out at the RHS’ flagship garden...
menus, and our cake is famous. We have a special venue we can use exclusively for groups if you want to pre-book and save time without queuing. Again, ideally please let us have four weeks’ notice.” ■ “We
love groups! Being coach friendly and
having your day go without a hitch is our top
Words: Helen Milbank
A
seasonal produce from the garden into our
priority. Once you’ve made a booking we’ll send
S RHS GARDEN Wisley in Surrey
on any specialist subject you wish to choose.
a confirmation letter for you to review. If you
prepares for its most exciting year yet
Sue Burnham has been Wisley’s group booking
want to change anything or add numbers later,
(2019 will see the launch of a brand new
co-ordinator for over 20 years, and is more
we are very flexible, we just ask that you keep
welcome building, with work also starting on
than happy to talk through your group’s
us updated.”
the pioneering National Centre for Science and
requirements and help plan the perfect day.
Learning), the message is clear: if you’re already
Here are her top tips for getting the most
■ “We’re
a fan of this historic gardening gem, come again
out of your trip...
that can be booked for tours, and mobility scooters and accessible routes through the
as so much is new – and if you’ve never been, you’re missing out! My visit came after weeks of drought, but
a very accessible site. We have a buggy
■ “Our
volunteer tours are extremely popular,”
garden highlights.”
says Sue. “For just £3 per person you get a
Wisley was very much the green and pleasant
view of the garden from those who love it best
■ “We
attraction that welcomes more than a million
and an insight into its history. But don’t leave
give out maps, retail discount vouchers and
visitors every year. A huge draw for groups,
it until the last minute to book – four weeks’
share information regarding what’s looking great
go as a party of 10 or more and reap the
notice is ideal.”
in the garden that day. Please keep everyone
benefits, which include discounted entry, free coach parking and private guided tours
offer a free meet and greet, where we
on the coach so we can come out to meet you ■ “Time
your visit around food! We bring
– and you can all bypass the queues.”
GTW
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02/08/2018 11:34
Come and discover Wiltshire’s hidden treasure Just 8 miles from Bath on the A4, 4 miles from the M4 (J17), or 3 miles from Chippenham Station.
IMAGE CREDIT: MAMMOTH MEDIA
www.corsham.gov.uk/visit
History, heritage, arts and crafts, great places to eat and drink and lots of independent shops – plus Poldark was filmed here too.
All aboard... Mike Pickup joins Royal Caribbean’s new Symphony of the Seas – the world’s largest cruise ship that’s a floating playground for families and groups of all ages
can holiday together but not stick together; a truly multi-generational destination. The ship has two banks of cabins so guests can choose between balconies facing out to sea or facing inwards over the central features, the Boardwalk and Central Park – a delightful area with 10,000 plants and trees and the
Photos: Mike Pickup
T
ages, as well as their parents and grandparents,
small Trellis Bar. It’s beautifully lit at night and I HE SPRAY FROM lorries on the M25 was like driving in thick fog, so at Gatwick
From TV ads you might imagine cruises are for couples, happy to pack evening wear so
enjoyed peaceful evening drinks in the open air. In contrast the Boardwalk, with fast food
I was happy to hand over the car keys to the
they can dress for dinner – hardly the sort
outlets and large Playmakers sports bar, has
valet parking service organised by Holiday
of holiday to take a wandering one-year-
an ‘end of the pier’ feel probably more suited
Extras. A few hours later I was in Malaga,
old, naughty nine-year-old or troublesome
to younger guests. Towering over it is The
with its cloudless skies and 75° climes,
teenager. Step up Royal Caribbean’s Symphony
Ultimate Abyss, at 100 feet the highest slide
to join the world’s largest cruise ship.
of the Seas where, as I discovered, kids of all
at sea – well, two slides actually, so guests can
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Cruise holidays Central Park by night
At 100 feet, The Ultimate Abyss is the highest slide at sea
Surf on board thanks to the Flow Rider
Have a drink at the Bionic Bar, where your cocktail’s prepared by a robotic arm!
On-board crazy golf
race each other to the bottom. There are two rock climbing walls, a sports court and a zip
trained tots can have fun splashing around. Adventure Ocean is a suite of rooms
no parents are allowed and it’s open until 1am. Kids tend not to get too excited about shore
line nine decks above the Boardwalk. Two Flow
catering for Aquanauts (three to five years),
excursions, which often include historical and
Riders shoot water up slopes at around 25mph
Explorers (six to eight years) and Voyagers
cultural elements, so if the teenager in your
so guests can surf and body-board without
(nine to 11 years). The services are free
group has just found the love of their life,
moving... much. There’s also an ice rink, laser
before 10pm and the suite includes a
they can stay on board and do their own thing
tag area and, for those less energetic, crazy golf.
science laboratory so kids can learn as well
while you explore ashore. Pisa with parents
as play. However, it’s not all about staying
or pizza with new friend – no contest!
AND BABY COMES TOO
indoors as they organise activities around
Key to multi-generational holidays are great
the ship with reserved sessions for facilities,
DINNER’S ON THEM
kids clubs, so I checked them out. ‘Royal
such as the Flow Rider and zip line.
Unlike traditional cruises, Symphony’s
Babies and Tots’ caters for kids from six to 36
The teens club (12-14 and 15-17)
guests dine when and where they want
months. Parents can stay for a play session
is a ‘come and go as you please’ facility.
from a choice of 20 venues, and there are no
or leave their youngsters for a small hourly
The Teens Only areas include a lounge and
formal dress nights. Seven dining venues are
charge. Symphony carries swim nappies and
a night club. Activities include dinners, pool
included in the fare while another 13 carry
has a specially filtered pool, so even non-toilet
parties, BBQs, themed nights and discos;
a small extra charge. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Cruise holidays Cabins can overlook the sea or the ship’s impressive Boardwalk
GET ME THERE ■ Royal
Caribbean offers one free
place for every eight cabins or 16-guest bookings. ■ For
more on Symphony of the Seas
and other Royal Caribbean cruises, call 0844 493 4005 or visit royalcaribbean.co.uk ■ Holiday
Extras offers meet and greet
and other services at all major UK airports. To book, call 0800 1313 777 or visit HolidayExtras.com
The main dining room offers a different
and water to hand. Wet the menu with the
the Crown Jewels. Hiro is a new aerial show
brush to reveal such items as halibut cooked
that takes place over the Aqua centre.
menu each night, while there are a number
in clear paper, and The Bird’s Nest, consisting
of speciality restaurants. Fans of Oriental
of smoke, blue cheese and hot sauce.
food have a choice of sushi and sashimi,
There are also numerous bars ranging from
A SURPRISE AROUND EVERY CORNER
meat lovers can indulge in the Chops Grill,
a traditional pub to the Bionic Bar, where your
Surprises are everywhere. Getting into the lift
and fish lovers can get their fill at Hooked.
cocktail is prepared by a robotic arm. You can
on one occasion I found myself sharing it with
If you fancy Italian there’s Jamie’s Italian
even have a drink in the Rising Tide, a bar that
the pop-up pianist, so leaving the buffet on
and Sorrento’s, an American/Italian mix
moves up and down between three decks.
deck 16 I decided to walk down the stairs and
serving a range of pizzas. For something
After dinner there’s a wide choice of
was amazed to find that as I did so it played
different, 150 Central Park offers a six-
entertainment. Unlike traditional cruise
Arabesque, each step playing the next note.
course tasting menu with great wines.
ships there are no fixed dining times so the
The faster I climbed up or down the faster the
ship can stage full-length West-End style
tune played. After a hearty lunch I was pleased
1950s style diner specialising in burgers and
productions. Shows in the main theatre
it wasn’t Chopin’s Minute Waltz!
hot dogs. Then there’s Wonderland, inspired
include Hairspray, winner of eight Tony
by Alice herself. The menu brought to your
awards, while in the ice rink you can see
ship that spends most days in ports, so you
table is blank but you’ll find a paintbrush
1977, a story about the fictitious theft of
can go ashore and explore too...?
Popular with kids, Jonny Rockets is a
Oh, and did I mention that this is a cruise
52 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Dover - France
Coach Travel this Christmas It’s never too early to start planning continental coach travel for Christmas 2018. Travel across 3 routes to Europe with your coach, and discover the stunning Christmas markets. We have fantastic benefits for our coach drivers, too.
dfds.co.uk/coaches
Group Leisure & Travel Show Visitors to the GLTS can arrive by coach – for free – from a number of pick up points around the UK
Arrive in style
Register now for free at grouptravelshow .com/register
As this autumn’s Group Leisure & Travel Show fast approaches, a free coach service to the event has been announced
V
ISITORS TO THE Group Leisure & Travel
organise group trips and holidays. Visitors
Show, which takes place on October 11
can expect to meet experts from attractions,
at the NEC, Birmingham, are now able to book
hotels, tour operators, cruise lines, tourist
onto a free coach service to the event. The
boards, coach companies and theatres, plus
services will be operated by Marshalls of
take advantage of show-only group deals
Sutton on Trent, Passenger Plus and Pulhams
and competitions.
& Sons, with arrival at the show around 11am. The free coaches will travel from London
Visitors arriving before 11am are welcomed with a bacon butty breakfast and there is a free
St Pancras International, Oxford and Newark,
seminar programme throughout the day
with various pick up spots including Milton
headlined by Simon Calder, senior travel editor
Keynes, Burton-on-Trent, Tamworth, Hemel
of The Independent and ‘go to’ travel expert.
www.grouptravelshow.com/register
Hempstead, Bicester, Derby, Nottingham and
Gardening expert and television presenter
or call the visitor hotline on 0345 130 7752.
Warwick. Although travel is free, seats must
Carol Klein and writer and actor and prolific
be pre-booked to ensure a seat, so early
broadcaster Gyles Brandreth will also feature.
exhibiting should contact Sharon Yandell
booking is advised.
Those companies interested in
All speakers will be offering special advice on
on sharon.y@yandellmedia.com or call
The Group Leisure & Travel Show is the
group visits and are available for Q&As.
01908 613323. More information on the
major annual exhibition dedicated exclusively
Registration for the GLTS is free for
show, including details on coach routes, free
to group travel and coach tourism and is a
group travel organisers and coach tourism,
parking and the seminar programme, can be
rewarding and enjoyable day for people who
and visitors can register online at
found at www.grouptravelshow.com
GTW
54 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Travel products
Get up and glow M
ORE AND MORE of us are jetting off
WE’VE TRIED IT!
wellness products to ensure you look and
Forever Living Aloe Nourishing Serum
feel amazing from take-off to touch down,
Price: £34.69 for 118ml
and during all your travels in between.
Tested by: GTW’s general manager Harley Denham
to sunnier climes each year, but flying
can play havoc with our skin and hair. So make sure you pack these key beauty and
ALOE SUNSCREEN SPRAY, £17.44
Great for: The manufacturers say this lightweight serum preserves and replenishes your skin’s moisture to help maintain
Aloe Sunscreen Spray has SPF 30 and aloe
a youthful complexion. Effortless to apply, it will absorb quickly
vera to protect your skin from the ageing and
but leave a softness that lasts all day. Contains aloe, white tea
damaging effects of the sun, plus the added
and mimosa bark extracts.
benefits of water resistance. A quick push of a
Verdict: Never before have I experienced such smooth skin, having
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suffered with ache when I was younger. I’ve found using the serum
ALOE VERA GELLY, £13.12
PIXABAY
Famed for supporting your health and well-being, aloe vera products are a travel essential. Here, expert Sushma Bragg explains more
To buy any of the products here call 07877 265725, order online at sbglobal.flp.com or see grouptravelworld .com/gtwshop
after washing and general use every morning has thoroughly improved my skin. I also use it on the tips of my hair after washing,
Essentially identical to the aloe vera’s inner
which gives my hair a great smooth feel. Being completely natural it’s
leaf, this 100% stabilised aloe vera gel
definitely something I’ll carry on buying.
lubricates sensitive tissue safely. This topical thick gel soothes and calms irritation.
SUN LIPS, £4.39 protection that blocks both UVA and UVB
Forever Living Aloe Shave
rays. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
Price: £15.08 for 150ml
and has a refreshing mint flavour.
Tested by: GTW’s publisher Jonathan Taylor
Take care of your lips by applying SPF 30
FOREVER TRAVEL KIT, £19.16
Great for: The manufacturers say this moisturising shaving gel turns everyday shaving into a pampering experience. It’s formulated
This handy kit contains airline approved sizes
with aloe vera to leave skin feeling cool and revitalised.
of the Aloe Bath Gelée, Aloe Moisturizing
Verdict: A soothing, great-smelling shaving gel. Having tried it the
Lotion, Aloe-Jojoba Shampoo, Aloe-Jojoba
result was an even softer, happier face than usual!
GTW
Conditioning Rinse and Forever Bright Toothgel. WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
055 GTW Aug 18 Forever Living.indd 55
55
02/08/2018 11:47
Christmas comes early at TLH Leisure Resort!
Turkey & Tinsel group holidays in Torquay • No single supplements on certain dates • Discounted group rates • Great entertainment • Great facilities • Great value
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Frame it! Upgrade to a framed, A4-sized high quality print of one, two or all three of our collectible posters for just £4.99 each. Call Emma on 01733 293487 to pay by credit or debit card or order online at grouptravelworld.com/ gtwshop
TURN OVER FOR THIS ISSUE’S POSTER WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
057-059 GTW Aug 18 Poster.indd 57
57
02/08/2018 11:50
NEW YORK grouptravelworld.com & grouptraveloffers.com
057-059 GTW Aug 18 Poster.indd 58
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02/08/2018 11:50
Industry insider Kirbys has been a family business for nearly 70 years COACH TOURISM
ASSOCIATION
For more on the exclusive benefits of joining the CTA see coachtourism association.co.uk
Family first DANIEL KIRBY
O
CTA Board Member Daniel Kirby runs Kirbys Coaches in Essex – a family business that strives to make every group trip a success
URS IS A family business that’s been around for 66 years, so I’ve always been
WHAT THE CTA MEANS TO ME...
involved in one way or another. After I left
Since joining the Coach Tourism Association
positives and negatives of the industry helps
school I worked my way through the business
(CTA), I’ve been inspired by the diverse
keep me well informed and one step ahead.
from mechanics and sales to becoming
members and combined knowledge in the
General Manager, and through this time I’ve
room. The more you attend CTA events, the
Board Members to encourage more
established good relationships with our
more people you get to know – and building
coach operators and suppliers to join.
customers, group organisers and suppliers.
this network hasn’t just provided me with
I believe it’s one of the best value for
ideas to help grow my business, but also
money associations in the industry, and
years, we’re aware of the constant changes
great contacts who can offer advice and help
we as a group will be able to provide
and challenges for both group organisers and
when it’s needed. I’ve found too that keeping
even more benefits to suppliers and
coach tourism as a whole. In order to make
my ear to the ground with regards to the
operators through 2018 and beyond.
Although we’ve been established for 66
I hope to work with my fellow CTA
sure our customers are always fully informed we send information out every six weeks on how to handle any forthcoming challenges. all sales staff and operations to make sure
have the opportunity to fill in an anonymous
seen our group market double, and I believe
I’m proud to say that in 2018 we’ve
we’re doing what’s necessary to perform
feedback form so we can learn and make
this is down to our commitment to offer
to the best of our abilities. We share news
any improvements necessary. We’ve found
great support to all of our customers,
about customer reactions to new products
getting feedback (even those comments we
while providing a high level of service.
and services, and after every holiday we call
don’t particularly want to hear) has helped
our passengers for their feedback so we can
us to shape the company for the better.
constantly improve on the holidays we offer.
■ Find
COMMUNICATION IS KEY Every day starts with a team meeting between
Customers who travel on our day trips also
out more about Kirbys Coaches
at kirbyscoaches.co.uk
GTW
60 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Entertainment
Your dedicated, responsive and friendly team for all your West End Theatre bookings. Call the award-winning team now!
WHITE CHRISTMAS MADE AT CURVE IN ASSOCIATION WITH JAMIE WILSON
IRVING BERLINʼS
BASED UPON THE PARAMOUNT PICTURES FILM
WRITTEN FOR THE SCREEN BY NORMAN KRASNA, NORMAN PANAMA AND MELVIN FRANK
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY IRVING BERLIN
BOOK BY DAVID IVES AND PAUL BLAKE
ORIGINAL STAGE PRODUCTION DIRECTED BY WALTER BOBBIE PRESENTED BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH R&H THEATRICALS EUROPE DIRECTED BY SCENIC DESIGN BY
NIKOLAI FOSTER CHOREOGRAPHEDBY STEPHEN MEAR
VOCAL AND DANCE ORIGINAL RE-ORCHESTRATIONS BY LARRY BLANK ARRANGEMENTS BY BRUCE POMAHAC BY JASON CARR MICHAEL TAYLOR LIGHTING DESIGNBY MARK HENDERSON SOUND DESIGNBY TOM MARSHALL ORCHESTRATIONS
Freephone 0800 049 8309 reservations@groupsdirect.co.uk www.groupsdirect.co.uk 057_GTW_Mar17_Theatre_Cover.indd 57 Christmas Curve_Group Travel World_advert_aw.indd World_aw.indd 1 The Cat InAt The Hat_Group 1 FP Template.indd 51 051_GTW_JULY'17.indd 51 FP 61 FP Template.indd Template.indd 19
23/02/2017 09:10 10/08/2018 09:43 11/07/2018 08:35 02/11/2017 12:11 30/06/2017 17:33 12/07/2018 22:02 14/06/2018 06/02/2018 10:46 09:28
WEST END PREMIERE
The hunt is on Next month sees the West End premiere of Dawn King’s Foxfinder, which is set to play the Ambassadors Theatre from September 6 until January 5, 2019. Olivier Award-winning actor Iwan Rheon – of Game of Thrones fame – will star in this darkly comic drama, which is directed by Rachel O’Riordan. England is in crisis, fields are flooded, food is scarce and fear of the red beast grips the land. William Bloor, a foxfinder, arrives at Judith and Samuel Covey’s farm to investigate a suspected fox infestation. But, as the hunt progresses, he finds more questions than answers...
SHAUN WEBB
Find out more and buy tickets at foxfinder.co.uk
Iwan Rheon stars as Foxfinder hits the West End
From tragedy comes hope
Frantic Assembly and Theatre Royal
The Tony Award-winning new musical
ran high, but as uneasiness turned
Plymouth have announced a new
Come From Away tells the true story of
into trust, music soared into the night
joint production, The Unreturning.
7,000 stranded air passengers during
and friendships were formed.
Telling the stories of three men coming
the wake of 9/11, and the small town in
home from war, the play, by Anna Jordan,
Newfoundland that welcomed them.
marks the 10th anniversary of Frantic
It will land in London for its long-
“I couldn’t be more delighted that Come From Away is coming to the UK next year. A story that captures the kindness and
Assembly’s award-winning Ignition
awaited UK premiere at the Phoenix
humanity of the people of Canada – and
training programme.
Theatre next year, with performances
the people of Newfoundland and Labrador
from January 30, 2019. But prior to its
in particular – at a crucial moment in US
Theatre Royal Plymouth on September 20,
West End run, this heart-warming musical
and global history,” says Canada’s High
before playing at venues across the UK
will show at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin
Commissioner to the UK, Janice Charette.
until March 16, 2019, including London’s
from December 6 to January 19, 2019.
“This show reminds us what good
The show has its world premiere at
Theatre Royal Stratford East (from
The show tells the story of how the
January 16 to February 2, 2019). Find
residents of Gander welcomed the
out more at franticassembly.co.uk
passengers of planes from around the world. Cultures clashed and nerves
MATTHEW MURPHY
The Unreturning
neighbours and true friendship is all about. Audiences in London are in for a treat.” Find out more online at comefromawaylondon.co.uk
The Mirror Crack’d Wales Millennium Centre and Wiltshire Creative have announced the first ever UK stage adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple thriller The Mirror Crack’d from Side to Side. The play opens at Salisbury Playhouse on February 15, before touring Dublin, Cambridge and Cardiff. 62 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
062-063 GTW Aug 18 Theatre news.indd 62
02/08/2018 11:54
Theatre news Vulcan 7 goes on tour New comedy Vulcan 7 – written by and starring Adrian Edmondson and Nigel Planer – is set to premiere this autumn before embarking on a UK tour. The pair rose to fame in TV sitcom The Comic Strip Presents and cult classic The Young Ones, and in their latest comedy they co-star as former drama students, Gary Savage and Hugh Delavois. One a plodding actor, the other a struggling Hollywood star, they’re reunited on Icelandic wasteland on the set of a fantasy movie. The
Shakespeare in Love
cast is completed by Lois Chimimba who stars as film runner Leela. Hugh has landed the role of Vulcan’s
Based on the Oscar-winning film Shakespeare in
butler and he’s making his seventh film
Love, a new production of the hit West End play
for the franchise. Gary is a one-time
is to tour the UK from October, opening at
Hollywood A-lister playing a guest
trailer things are not going to plan
monster with four hours in make-up
either: the director’s gone AWOL, the
and one word in the script. Sparks
catering truck’s on the wrong side of
and Gwyneth Paltrow, was adapted for stage by
fly inside the trailer as old wounds
a ravine, and the volcanic activity is
Lee Hall and enjoyed a triumphant West End run
are opened. Leela, a runner, attempts
growing more lively by the minute...
in 2014. The new stage production is directed by
to keep the peace, but outside the
■ For
Philip Breen, whose previous Royal Shakespeare
Theatre Royal Bath on October 4. The film, starring Judi Dench, Joseph Fiennes
a full list of tour dates see page 68.
Company credits include The Merry Wives of Windsor and The Shoemaker’s Holiday.
A moving performance
Dates include: ■ Theatre
Royal Bath, October 4-13,
Internationally acclaimed all-male dance
at Wilton’s Music Hall in Whitechapel,
theatreroyal.org.uk
company BalletBoyz will bring to life
London from November 13-17.
■ Nottingham
their award-winning film and sell-out
The production chronicles the
Theatre Royal, October 15-20,
trch.co.uk
stage production of Young Men in a
experiences of young soldiers sent
■ Malvern
new adaptation of live dance and film
to fight in The Great War in a moving
malvern-theatres.co.uk
portrayal of the desolation of warfare.
■ Oxford
Originally conceived for stage and
oxfordplayhouse.com
premiering at London’s Sadler’s Wells
■ Cambridge
in January 2015, it was adapted for
cambridgeartstheatre.com
the screen in a commission by the
■ King’s
BBC and saw BalletBoyz become
capitaltheatres.com/kings
the first ever dance company to
■ Chichester
present a full-length feature film.
cft.org.uk
HUGO GLENDINNING
The BalletBoyz
Festival Theatre, October 23-27,
Playhouse, October 30 to November 3, Arts Theatre, November 5-9,
Theatre Edinburgh , November 12-17, Festival Theatre, November 20-24,
Find out more at wiltons.org.uk
Mark Williams, star of The Fast Show and seven of the Harry Potter films, will
Mark Williams is Dr Dolittl
SIMON TURTLE
He talks to the animals...
Three decades of pop
The world premiere of Pop Music promises a night like no other, as it charts two wedding guests’ rollercoaster journey through 30 epic years of pop. The production will open at Birmingham Repertory
star as Doctor Dolittle at the first 10
Theatre from September 12-22, before embarking
venues of the musical’s new UK and
on a UK tour to Liverpool, Peterborough, Bracknell,
Ireland tour. This new production is part
Brighton, St Albans, Norwich, Doncaster, Havant,
of the 50th anniversary celebrations of
Manchester, Derby, Selby, Preston, Washington,
the original film starring Rex Harrison,
Lincoln, Beverly, Canterbury, Bordon, Lyme Regis,
and will feature the same songs, including
Guildford, Halifax, Banbury, Barking, Maidenhead,
the Academy Award-winning Talk To The
Bromsgrove, Berwick Upon Tweed and Whitehaven.
Animals. See doctordolittlemusical.com
See painesplough.com WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
062-063 GTW Aug 18 Theatre news.indd 63
63
02/08/2018 11:54
Which witch is
Wicked?
PHOTOS: MATT CROCKETT
As London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre is transformed into Oz, Darren Calpin enjoys the award-winning show that has turned a classic tale on its head
T
HE 14TH LONGEST running show in
to turn L Frank Baum’s classic story almost
more, a lot more in fact, about the history
West End theatre history, and purportedly
completely on its head, making the audience
and despotic desires of the mysterious
question the very notion of wickedness.
and ever-manipulating Wizard himself.
seen by more than 9,000,000 people, Wicked is, quite simply, a modern-day musical
Skillfully told with flashbacks and segues
phenomenon. Indeed, this spectacular, multi
set before, during and after the Wizard of
OZ, BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT
award-winning production, now in its 12th
Oz, we learn that sensitive green-skinned
This revisionist story (directed by Joe
consecutive year at the Apollo Victoria Theatre,
outsider Elphaba (destined to become the
Mantello and based on Gregory Maguire’s
is so loved that it’s hard to believe the initial
so-called Wicked Witch of the West) and
acclaimed novel) is absolutely captivating.
reviews back in 2006 were ‘mixed’ to say
shallow, attention-seeker Glinda (know
After all, the notion of finding out something
the least (some were downright scathing).
later as ‘Glinda The Good’) met at university
you always believed to be fact isn’t as
and, after overcoming initial hostilities,
true as you thought has huge appeal.
For those who don’t know, Wicked is a reimagining of the revered Wizard of Oz tale
became best friends. As the story unfolds,
that we all think we know so well. In essence,
we see how the Tin Man, Cowardly Lion
is told that sets this production apart. The key
However, it’s the manner in which the story
it tells a beguiling backstory that manages
and Scarecrow enter the fray, and find out
players – two strong female leads – aren’t just
64 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
064-065 GTW Aug 18 Theatre review - Wicked.indd 64
02/08/2018 12:00
Theatre review Sophie Evans, who plays Glin da, with Alice Fe arn as Elphaba
Elphaba and the rest of the award-winning cast have made the show world class
fine actors and formidable singers, they’re both.
Wicked’ stood out for me. However, it is
glitzy Emerald City and Hogwarts-esque Shiz
For sure, Alice Fearn (Elphaba) and Sophie
‘Defying Gravity’, a spectacular ensemble
University in no less than 50 scenes. The
Evans (Glinda) are utterly compelling, propelling
number at the end of Act One that is Wicked’s
beautifully-costumed supporting players and
the story along with a scintillating chemistry
de facto show-stopping moment – the
ensemble members impress too, with particular
that makes their intimate dialogue and
audience went absolutely nuts for it.
kudos going to the slightly unsettling (and
wonderful comic asides a joy to watch. The songs too, written and arranged by the incomparable Stephen Schwartz, are delivered with the type of vibrant gusto normally reserved for an opening night. ‘I’m Not That Girl’ and ‘No One Mourns the
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
Find out more about Wicked – The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz at wickedthemusical .co.uk
As you’d expect from a
evidently very fit) flying monkey characters. Overall, Wicked does for the stage what the 1939 Wizard of Oz movie did for cinema: it uses every aspect of the medium to transport
show boasting top-draw
the audience to a place where they feel
production values, the sets
thoroughly enchanted, engaged and entertained.
are splendidly evocative,
As such, it will surely be saying ‘there’s no place
transporting viewers to
like home’ to the Apollo Victoria Theatre for a
fantastical places like the
very long time to come.
GTW
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
064-065 GTW Aug 18 Theatre review - Wicked.indd 65
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Hit show Kinky Boots is playing at the Adelphi Theatre
Theatre LONDON
MATT CROCKET
YOUR TRIP TO THE WEST END STARTS HERE – VISIT OUR SITE GROUPTRAVELOFFERS.COM FOR THE BEST TICKET PRICES ALADDIN Prince Edward Theatre
Booking to: April 2019 Times: Weds & Sat Part One
Thurs & Sat 15:00
Booking to: February 2019
14.00 & Part Two 19:30; Thurs
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Part One 19:30; Fri Part Two
MATILDA – THE MUSICAL
Thurs & Sat 14:30
19:30; Sun Part One 13.00,
Cambridge Theatre
Part Two 18:30
Booking to: February 2019
THE BOOK OF MORMON Prince of Wales Theatre
KINKY BOOTS
New London Theatre Booking to: January 2019
Weds & Sat 14:30
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
MOTOWN THE MUSICAL
Weds & Sat 14:30
Shaftesbury Theatre
Booking to: October 2018
Booking to: March 2019
Times: Tues-Sat 19:30; Sat
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
14:30; Sun 15.00 & 19.00
Weds & Sat 14:30
DREAMGIRLS
THE LION KING
Weds & Sat 14:30
Sun 15:00
Booking to: January 2019
Criterion Theatre
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
SCHOOL OF ROCK
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30,
Queen’s Theatre
Booking to: December 2018
19:30; Weds & Sat 14:30hrs,
Adelphi Theatre
LES MISÉRABLES
Theatre Royal
Times: Tues 19:00; Weds-Sat
Booking to: November 2018
THE COMEDY ABOUT A BANK ROBBERY
42ND STREET
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30, Thurs & Sat 14:30; Sun 15:00
Booking to: January 2019
THRILLER LIVE
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Lyric Theatre
Thurs & Sat: 15:00
Booking to: April 2019
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
Times: Tues-Fri 19:30; Sat 16:00 & 20.00; Sun 15:30 & 19:30
Her Majesty’s Theatre
WICKED
Booking to: March 2019
Apollo Victoria
Lyceum Theatre
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Booking to: May 2019
Booking to: January 2019
Booking to: February 2019
Thurs & Sat 14:30
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Times: Mon-Sat 19:30;
Times: Tues-Sat 19:30,
Weds & Sat 14:30
Weds, Sat & Sun 14:30
HARRY POTTER & THE CURSED CHILD (parts 1 & 2)
MAMMA MIA!
Palace Theatre
Savoy Theatre
THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
Weds & Sat 14:30
THE WOMAN IN BLACK
Duchess Theatre
Fortune Theatre
Novello Theatre
Booking to: April 2019
Booking to: January 2019
Booking to: March 2019
Times: Tue-Sat 19:30; Sat
Times: Mon-Sat 20:00;
Times: Mon-Sat 19:45;
14:30; Sun 15:00 & 19:00
Tues & Thurs 15:00; Sat 16.00
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Great shows for Groups at Sadler’s Wells & The Peacock DIRECTED BY SHRUTI MERCHANT CHOREOGRAPHED BY VAIBHAVI MERCHANT
THE DAZZLING BOLLYWOOD MUSICAL IS BACK
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FEATURING THE SONGS OF
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‘Walking in the Air’
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A NEW ADVENTURES PRODUCTION
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07/08/2018 14:09
Touring theatre THE UK’S BEST MUSICALS AND SHOWS HAVE HIT THE ROAD. CATCH THEM ON TOUR HERE... VULCAN 7 Yvonne Arnaud Theatre: September 19-29 Cambridge Arts Theatre: October 1-6 Newcastle Theatre: October 8-13 Theatre Royal Bath: October 15-20 Richmond Theatre: October 22-27 Malvern Festival Theatre: October 29 to November 3 King’s Theatre Edinburgh: November 5-10
SHREK THE MUSICAL Llandudno Venue Cymru: August 21 - September 2 Leeds Grand Theatre: December 18 - January 6, 2019
MISS SAIGON Norwich Theatre Royal: August 15 - September 15 Bradford Alhambra: September 19 - October 20 Sunderland Empire: October 24 - November 17 New comedy Vulcan 7 goes on tour next month
Sheffield Lyceum Theatre: October 16-20 Wimbledon Theatre: October 23-27 Oxford New Theatre: October 30 - November 3 Dublin Bord Gais Energy Theatre: November 6-10 Grand Opera House: November 13-24 2019 Salford The Lowry: J anuary 16-26 Swansea Grand Theatre: January 29 - February 2 Dartford Orchard Theatre: February 5-9 Ipswich Regent Theatre: February 12-16 Woking New Victoria: February 19-23 Wolverhampton Grand: February 26 - March 2 Milton Keynes Theatre: March 5-9
Southend Cliffs Pavilion: September 19-29
Southampton Mayflower Theatre: March 12-16
Come Dancing – The Professionals is set to tour the country from May 2019 for a 35-date UK tour. It promises a glamorous production bringing together Strictly’s favourite professional dancers to the same stage. See strictlytheprofessionals.com
■ Enjoy the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s series of autumn shows, including The Music of Bond at the Royal Albert Hall on September 19, and Symphonic Pop on October 12. Discounts apply for groups of six or more – see rpo.co.uk ■ The Royal Shakespeare Company’s award-winning
TRISTRAM KENT
Shrek the Musical is on tour until early next year
■ Strictly
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BBC
His Majesty’s Theatre: October 4-13
THE BAND
Don’t miss...
Ore Oduba, winner of the 2016 Strictly glitter ball. Strictly Come Dancing – The Professionals starts its tour in May 2019
To buy cut-price tickets to a range of West End shows see grouptraveloffers.com or call Harley in the GTW office on 01733 293249
production of Matilda The Musical has launched its first ever UK and Ireland tour, which runs until August 2019. See matildathemusical.com ■ Wet Wet Wet’s Marti Pellow will star as Abanazar in Dartford Orchard Theatre’s Aladdin, from December 8-30. Find out more at orchardtheatre.co.uk
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Dining
Tea at the Palace Afternoon tea in the grounds of wonderful Kensington Palace? Don’t mind if we do...
honeymoon tweeds to the flak vest she wore for her high-profile visit to the Angolan landmine fields. Unique, emotive and fascinating, the exhibition’s well worth a visit – as is its fellow exhibition, Victoria Revealed, which explores her long and extraordinary reign. Add to this the fact that you’re actually IN the home of
Words: Helen Milbank
E
her most iconic outfits, from her Balmoral
several royals, including the Duke and Duchess NJOYING A SLAP up afternoon tea in the
history, and many choose to go the whole
of Cornwall and their children, and regal days
Pavilion overlooking the Sunken Garden,
hog and throw in afternoon tea too (which
out don’t get much better than this.
hearing tales of how Princess Diana enjoyed
starts at just £30 per person). Expect
roller-skating through the grounds, before
a swish yet relaxed vibe as the Pavilion
standing just inches away from many of her
elegantly fills the place of The Orangery,
iconic outfits, is a memorable way to spend an
which is closed for conservation and
afternoon. And you don’t have to be a minor
restoration work.
member of the royal family to enjoy it, as the GTW team discovered.
before slipping into the Palace itself to see its long-running
which is managed by Historic and families keen to discover more about its very regal
Helen (far left) with GTW’s Julie and Lesley Terrell of Historic Royal Palaces
We enjoyed a traditional feast,
The fantastic Kensington Palace, Royal Palaces, welcomes groups
GTW
and hugely popular
Find out more at hrp.org.uk/ kensington-palace
exhibition Diana: Her Fashion Story, which is home to many of
Kensington Palace was the childhood home of Queen Victoria
WIN!
HISTORIC ROYAL PALACES
We have a pair of tickets to Kensington Palace to give away. To enter, visit grouptravelworld.com/ competition before September 1, 2018 70 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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NEW BROCHURE! CONTACT US FOR A COPY 0800 049 8309
THE
AUTUMN/WINTER 2018
EXPLORER EXCURSIONS
days out for your group
HOLIDAYS
in the UK & abroad
THEATRE
breaks & packages
CRUISES
River & Ocean cruises
The Group Experience & Travel Company www.groupsdirect.co.uk | @groupsdirect | 0800 049 8309 | reservations@groupsdirect.co.uk FP Template.indd 71
09/08/2018 21:57
An Englishman’s home… Tour the UK’s best-loved castles and abbeys, from the famous to the quirky
EASTNOR CASTLE
an arboretum, lake, a 19th century ice house and an adventure playground. The castle offers pre-booked tours with experienced guides on Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the year, or you can take a
A family home it may be, but many of
self-guided tour, see eastnorcastle.com
Herefordshire
the rooms are open for a nose, including
Set in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,
the grand bedrooms, state rooms and
SUDELEY CASTLE
the 19th century Eastnor (pictured below) has
the 60ft high Great Hall. Outside, there are
Gloucestershire
the fairytale looks of a make-believe castle.
5,000 acres of parkland with numerous walks,
The magnificent Sudeley Castle can trace its
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Days out history back 1,000 years, but it’s probably
BAMBURGH CASTLE
best known as the home of Catherine Parr,
Northumberland
Henry VIII’s sixth wife.
Hailed as the King of Castles, this fantastic site has been the Royal Seat of the Kings of
15th century St Mary’s Church – she’s the
Northumbria, and a family home since 1894.
only English queen to have been buried
Spanning nine acres on a rocky plateau, it’s
on private land (little pub quiz fact for you
one of the largest inhabited castles in the
there!). Inside, the castle is a wealth of
country, dating back to the Anglo Saxons
costumes, paintings and artefacts, while outside there are 10 award-winning gardens. Group incentives include reduced admission rates and optional specialist talks and tours, see sudeleycastle.co.uk
VISITNORTHUMBERLAND.COM
Visit Catherine’s tomb in the castle’s
and clocking up its fair share of myths and legends over the centuries. Family tickets start from just £26 for two adults and up to three Bamburgh Castle
children (with under-fives free). Plan your visit at bamburghcastle.com
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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PEMBROKESHIRE'S AWARD WINNING CASTLE & GARDENS 40 ACRES OF GARDENS 13th CENTURY CASTLE QUALITY GIFT SHOP SECRET OWL GARDEN ART GALLERIES RESTAURANT & DELI OPEN ALL YEAR ROUND!
DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS
Christmas Fair 17 & 18 NOVEMBER Christmas Castle Tours 19 NOV - 21 DEC
Enjoy a great day out in the Cotswolds discovering 1000 years of history at Sudeley Castle & Gardens
• Great deals for groups • Luscious lunches & terrific teas • “One of the UK’s Top 10 Royal Gardens” (Daily Telegraph) • New ‘Royal Sudeley 1000 – Trials, Triumphs and Treasures’ exhibition
PEMBROKESHIRESA62 4AS 01437 751326 WWW.PICTONCASTLE.CO.UK EMAIL INFO@PICTONCASTLE.CO.UK REG. CHARITY NO: 519693
CHRISTMAS AT WADDESDON MANOR
10 Nov-2 Jan
Christmas Gift Fair 10 Nov-16 Dec For opening times and group rates 01296 653209 groups@waddesdon.org.uk www.waddesdon.org.uk Nr Aylesbury, Bucks HP18 0JH
1992-HEV-Christmas-Groups-Ad-2018-GTW-93x134mm-AW.indd 1 HP Template.indd 74
10/07/2018 16:52 09/08/2018 22:10
Days out Woburn Abbey dates back to the 1500s
Raise your flag! It has the largest collection of ancient castles in England (66 to be precise), and English Heritage is asking its visitors to help protect them from the ravages of time by giving a donation this summer
WOBURN ABBEY & GARDENS Bedfordshire
– in exchange for a flag. the fictional landing place for Count Dracula. In the award-winning visitor centre a gallery
Look out for the special castle-shaped collection boxes and pick up a flag to
Home of the Duke and Duchess of Bedford,
digs into the site’s 13 centuries of history,
show your support. Plus, take a photo
Woburn Abbey was gifted to the family by
with archaeological artefacts, interactive
of your group waving their flags and
Henry VIII in his will of 1547, and today visitors
displays of personalities from its past and
send it to English Heritage (by Monday
can explore 500 years of the family’s history,
digital reconstructions of the abbey through
September 24) to be entered into a prize
together with a world-famous art collection,
time. Find out more about both monastic
draw. The prize? A free visit, for 11 to 50
including works by Reynolds and Van Dyck.
attractions at english-heritage.org.uk
people, to a castle of your choice during
The 28 acres of gardens are home to
2019. Email your snaps to traveltrade@
elegant horticultural designs, woodland
BATTLE ABBEY
glades, ponds and architectural features:
East Sussex
flag photo’ in the subject line. Include
many inspired by Humphrey Repton (hurry
This year marks the 952nd anniversary of
your name, contact details and the
and you’ll just catch Woburn’s Repton
the Battle of Hastings (not that significant a
date and place of your group’s visit.
exhibition – see the website for details).
number we admit, but still pretty remarkable).
And Woburn’s award-winning groups
It was an event that transformed the course
Look out for the flags at the following
co-ordinator, Lisa Weaver, is on hand to
of English history, and Battle Abbey was built
attractions...
help you plan your trip – email lisa.weaver@
on the orders of the new king, William the
■ Dover
woburn.co.uk or see woburnabbey.co.uk
Conqueror, at the site where the Saxon King
■ Carisbrooke
Harold had died, in order to atone for the
■ Carlisle
bloodshed during the battle.
■ Framlingham
RIEVAULX ABBEY & WHITBY ABBEY
Visitors can now climb to the abbey’s
english-heritage.org.uk with ‘Fly the
Castle in Kent (pictured above) Castle on the Isle of Wight
Castle in Cumbria
■ Goodrich
Castle in Suffolk
Castle in Herefordshire
North Yorkshire
Gatehouse roof to see the extent of
■ Kenilworth
Previously unseen architectural stone features,
the battlefield from above, and a new
■ Pendennis
excavated by First World War veterans at
Gatehouse exhibition reveals the abbey’s
■ Scarborough
Rievaulx Abbey in the 1920s, are now on
role in the country’s post-battle future. Find
■ Tintagel
Castle in Cornwall
display in the abbey’s recently revamped
out more about this East Sussex gem at
■ Walmer
Castle and Gardens in Kent
on-site museum.
english-heritage.org.uk/battleabbey
Castle in Warwickshire Castle in Cornwall Castle in North Yorkshire
A 14th century statue, thought to represent St James the Great (patron saint of pilgrims, no less), and a monk’s scourge (tipped with wire balls and used for selfpenance, in case you were wondering)
The Great Gatehouse at Battle Abbey, where a rooftop viewing platform gives a new perspective on the famous battle
are among the quirky objects on display, and you can also the enjoy the new and updated reception area, shop and café. The abbey’s owned by English Heritage, which also cares for North Yorkshire’s famous Whitby Abbey. Sitting high on the cliff top above the town, the abbey – founded by King Oswy of Northumbria in 657 – is now best known for the fact that Bram Stoker chose its dramatic backdrop and gothic splendour as WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Lamport Hall & Gardens HILL CLOSE GARDENS A unique local attraction including 16 detached Victorian gardens with summerhouses Large Glasshouse Tearoom Guided tours £8.40pp (inc refreshments) Plant & Gift Sales Venue Hire
Open weekdays Nov- March: 11-4pm
Open every day April-Oct: 11am-5pm with tearoom Sat, Sun and Bank Hol Mon
• The home of the garden gnome! • Beautiful house and contents dating back more than 400 years • Remarkable 2-acre walled garden full of flowers • Free entry to Museum of Rural Life • Gardens accessible to all • Refreshments available in the Victorian Dining Room • Groups very welcome
Entry: Adult £4.50 Child (5-17) £1 T: 01926 493339 www.hillclosegardens.com Bread and Meat Close, Warwick, CV34 6HF
OPEN DAILY
Lamport Hall
Lamport, Northampton NN6 9HD
01604 686272
house@lamporthall.co.uk www.lamporthall.co.uk
FIND US ON
EASTER TO OCTOBER
Dedicated Groups Co-ordinator • Tea room • Gift shop • Group rates Guided tours • NEW Humphry Repton Exhibition and Tours
01525 290333 lisa.weaver@woburn.co.uk www.woburnabbey.co.uk J3644 WA Coach Tours UK ad 190x133_Dec17.indd 2
15/11/2017 13:25
Days out
THE
ULTIMATE
ROAD TRIP Travel the well-trodden route from London to Bath to soak up 2,000 years of history START AT...
Christian sites. Reputedly the final resting place
the stunning house is full of incredible furniture
of King Arthur, it was, in reality, built in the 7th
and art, as well as 375 acres of beautifully
century, gutted by fire in the 12th century and
manicured gardens.
rebuilt in the 13th before falling into disrepair
THEN ON TO... Silchester Roman Town near Basingstoke on
300 years later.
NEXT UP IS...
the Hampshire/Berkshire border. Home to the
Bath Abbey in Somerset, a superb example
remains of a Roman town known as Calleva
of Perpendicular Gothic architecture built in
Atrebatum, it was first occupied around 45AD.
757AD. The third (and present) church was
The town was an Iron Age settlement and is
built in the 16th century by decree of Queen
now home to what experts consider to be the
Elizabeth I and is one of the most beautiful
best-preserved Roman wall in Britain.
churches in the south west.
BEFORE A STOP AT...
AND FINALLY...
Kew Palace, a 17th century mansion on the
Ludgershall Castle in Andover, Wiltshire,
Head to the Roman Baths of Bath in
banks of the Thames at Richmond. The current
which was built in the 12th century. Renovated
Somerset. Among the best known of all
palace, built in 1802 and designed in part
by King John in 1210, it was inherited by his
ancient Roman remnants in the UK, these
by King George III, lies in the grounds of the
son, King Henry II, and later transformed by
were built in 70-80AD and upgraded over the
famous Kew Gardens.
Henry III into a hunting lodge.
next 300 years. As well as some incredible
THEN HEAD TO...
DON’T MISS...
artefacts, the collection of 130 ‘curse tablets’ – curses carved into stone relating to slights,
Windsor Castle in Berkshire, the oldest
Stonehenge in Wiltshire – one of the true
disagreements and arguments from ancient
and largest occupied castle in the world.
wonders of the world. A collection of vast
Roman life – is fascinating.
The Queen’s official residence, it has been
standing stone circles dating to around
the monarchy’s home for 1,000 years and
3100BC, no-one knows who built it, or its
was built by William the Conqueror after
original purpose (speculation ranges from
the 11th century Norman invasion.
sacrifice to astronomy), but it remains one of
With thanks to Trip Historic for their help
the UK’s most visited tourist attractions.
with this feature, the leading online travel
NEXT STOP? VISIT BRITAIN
to earls, dukes, counts and princes, and today
Cliveden House in Maidenhead,
THEN CHECK OUT...
Buckinghamshire, an ornate Victorian Italianate
Glastonbury Abbey in Somerset. Its medieval
mansion built in the 1850s. It’s been home
ruins are one of Britain’s most important
guide to the world’s historic sites. Find out more about all the sites mentioned here at triphistoric.com
GTW
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Days out Roman Dead is the first of its kind to explore the beliefs, rituals, deaths and burials of ancient London
A selection of ancient burial objects, including a jet pendant
The museum’s Luisa Duarte cleans one of the skulls that have been unearthed
What lies beneath… 2,000-year-old skeletons buried under our feet? A new exhibition at the Museum of London Docklands brings the Roman era to life (or should that be death?)
L
■ ‘Close
to the bone’ is a chance to discover
the processes and ethics behind the Museum of London’s Centre of Human Bioarchaeology, which was established in 2003 to curate and research human remains excavated in the City and Greater London area. Dr. Rebecca Redfern, Curator of Human Osteology, will share key insights from the museum’s collection of over 20,000 human remains, before guests explore
AST SUMMER, ARCHAEOLOGISTS
display, alongside the skeletons and cremated
advanced techniques with expert Sherlock
in London discovered a rare Roman
remains of 28 ancient Londoners. Visitors can
Bones. This takes place on September 20,
sarcophagus in Southwark – a find so exciting
learn about the objects people were buried
from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.
it drew worldwide attention. And said coffin is
with, and why, as well as exploring the latest
■ ‘Roman
now the centerpiece of a new exhibition at the
research into beliefs around afterlife and
Sarcophagus’ is an evening of discussion,
Museum of London Docklands, alongside the
burial practice. The exhibition runs until
providing a behind the scenes look at the
skeletal remains of the woman buried inside it.
October 28, 2018.
discovery of London’s first sarcophagus since
The exhibition, called Roman Dead, is the
Dead: discovering the Harper Road
2006. This takes place on September 25,
first of its kind to explore the beliefs, rituals,
AND THERE’S MORE
deaths and burials in ancient London, and was
As well as the exhibition, the museum is hosting
sparked by the discovery of the sarcophagus,
a series of events designed to help families and
GET ME THERE...
which is only the third of its kind ever found
groups re-live London’s Roman era:
The Museum of London Docklands is located
in our capital. Evidence suggests the vessel
■ ‘Londinium
at West India Quay in East London. Opened
was robbed of its treasures in antiquity, and
exploring the Roman cemeteries that sat just
in 2003, this Grade I listed converted Georgian
a crack in its heavy lid points towards a grave
outside the walls of Londinium. Hear tales
sugar warehouse tells the story of the port,
robbery in the 16th century.
of the people who lived, and died, in Roman
river and city – focusing on trade, migration
London, and learn about their funeral and
and commerce in London. The museum is
– an intaglio depicting a satirical scene and
burial practices, as well as recent archaeological
open daily from 10am to 6pm and is free
a gold fragment.
excavations and finds. Dates and times vary,
to enter. See museumoflondon.org.uk/
see the website for details.
romandead
However, two rare items did survive
Jewellery and Roman artefacts are on
mortuum’ is a series of walks
from 6.30pm to 9pm.
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HHHH Time Out
A major photography exhibition
Group booking discounts and exclusive curator talks available 5 minutes from St Paul’s Media Partner
Late Extra, Mercie Lack © Museum of London
18232_London_Nights_Group_Travel_World_Full_Page_Ad.indd 1 FP Template.indd 79
Until 11 November 2018 Book now 07/08/2018 12:51 09/08/2018 22:00
Days out
5
to explore
From world-famous ships to royal coffins we check out the quirky and the cool
1
ROYAL MUSEUMS GREENWICH
national conservation area and monument as
of an outsider artist (the exhibition runs until
well as a top-class museum. So, along with
October 28). It’s also hosting a Christina
a truly amazing collection of supercars and
Rossetti exhibition from November 13 to
sports cars, you’ll also find the world’s first
March 17, 2019. See wattsgallery.org.uk
purpose-built motor racing circuit and four listed buildings on-site. Oh, and they also have an actual Concorde supersonic jet too... See brooklandsmuseum.com
3
NORFOLK TANK MUSEUM Deborah II – a reproduction of the
5
COFFIN WORKS Take a step back in time to the 1960s
with a trip to Newman Brothers – a Birmingham company in the old Jewellery Quarter that produced some of the world’s finest coffin furniture, including the fittings
original Mk IV tank that was knocked out of
for the funerals of Winston Churchill and
action at The Battle of Cambrai in 1917
the Queen Mother. Exclusive guided tours
Greenwich is at the heart of maritime heritage.
– was the star of the recent Channel 4 series
are available for groups of 15 or more, and
Learn about some of Britain’s most dramatic
Guy Martin’s WW1 Tank. And she’s now on
combined tickets to the nearby Pen Museum
naval stories, with collections covering
show at her new permanent home in the
are available. See coffinworks.org
everything from the Battle of Trafalgar
Norfolk Tank Museum near Norwich. Deborah
to First World War sea battles. Find out more
joins more than 20 tanks and armoured
at rmg.co.uk/national-maritime-museum
vehicles at the museum, including a rare
The National Maritime Museum in
And just a short walk away is the Cutty Sark, the world’s only surviving tea clipper and the fastest ship of her time. Plan your trip at rmg.co.uk/cutty-sark
2
BROOKLANDS MUSEUM As the birthplace of British motorsport
– and aviation – Brooklands in Surrey is a
group of three Chieftain tanks. See norfolktankmuseum.co.uk
4
WATTS GALLERY Watts Gallery in Compton, Surrey is
playing host to the first exhibition ever to explore the life and imagination of James Henry Pullen, examining the creative escapism
GTW
National Museums Liverpool is a group of free to enter galleries, including the World Museum, the Museum of Liverpool and the Merseyside Maritime Museum. Explore all seven sites at liverpoolmuseums .org.uk
The Cutty Sark
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Group Travel World - Ireland - FP Aug 2018_Layout 1 03/07/2018 09:24 Page 1
Tours to Ireland - Updated & Enhanced for 2019! Have the Craic in Dublin Malahide Castle © Ireland's content pool
January – December 2019 Day 1 Depart the UK. Day 2 Dublin; Irish Whiskey Museum with optional Vintage Afternoon Tea Tour. Day 3 Malahide Castle and Howth Fishing Village. Day 4 Guinness Storehouse and Traditional Irish Night. Day 5 Fly from Dublin back to your local airport.
Dual Centre
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Highly Recommended
from
£579 per person
Little Trains and Boats of Ireland For Groups Only
Depart the UK. Little Trains and the Foynes Flying Boat Museum. Travel to Waterford and afternoon free. Waterford & Suir Valley Railway and the Dunbrody Famine Ship. Fly from Dublin back to your local airport.
NEW
Day 1 Depart the UK. Day 2 Cobh and the ‘Titanic Trail’ and Jameson Experience. Day 3 Cork City, Blarney Castle and Kinsale. Day 4 Bantry House and Garnish Island. Day 5 Fly from Ireland back to your local airport.
Highly Recommended
from
Day 1 Day 2
Dunbrody Famine Ship ©Tourism Ireland-Chris Hill 2006
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland from your local airport; Coach hire & driver services in Ireland; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Single journey on the West Clare Railway, the Kilimer to Tarbert Ferry, the Lartigue Monorail and the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway; Entrance to the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum; Visit to Dunbrody Famine Ship; Guided walking tour of Waterford.
Day 4
Day 5
Irish House Party in Tipperary For Groups Only
Day 1 Depart the UK – Irish coffee demo after dinner. Day 2 Kilkenny Road train, Smithwicks brewery; evening live entertainment. Day 3 Free day in Galway. Evening bingo. Day 4 Irish National stud, Newbridge silverware museum; evening Quiz. Day 5 Fly from Ireland back to your local airport.
For Groups Only
St Colmans Cathedral and the Haven Coast ©Faille Ireland/George Karbus
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland from your local airport; Coach hire & driver services in Ireland; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Walking tour of Cobh; Entrance to Titanic Cobh, Jameson Experience, Bantry House, Blarney Castle and Garnish Island.
Gems of Ireland
Depart the UK. Cliffs of Moher and Burren Tour. Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, Lartigue Monorail and Adare Village. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park and Ennis. Fly from Shannon or Cork back to your local airport.
Cliffs of Moher ©Tourism Ireland-Chris Hill 2007
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland from your local airport; Coach hire & driver services in Ireland; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Entrance to the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre, the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park; Ride on the Lartigue Monorail.
Killarney and the Ring of Kerry
from
For Groups Only
April – October 2019
£505 per person
Day 1 Day 2
Day 3
FREE BAR
Day 4
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland; Coach hire in Ireland; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Free bar from 6-9pm each evening; Entertainment programme and excursions as above.
|
E: sales@greatdays.co.uk
from
£447 per person For Groups Only
Day 5
Depart the UK. Ring of Kerry. Today, enjoy a day excursion around the famous 'Ring of Kerry' with a specialist guide. Killarney, Jaunting Car Trip and Muckross House. Tralee and the Dingle Peninsula. Will you spot Fungi, Dingle's resident dolphin? Fly from Ireland back to your local airport.
|
from
£469 per person
Ring of Kerry ©Tourism Ireland
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland from your local airport; Coach hire & driver services in Ireland; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Full day guide for the Ring of Kerry; Jaunting car trip (One way); Entrance to Muckross House & Gardens.
To book or for more information please contact our Sales Team
T: 0161 928 3242
from
£535 per person
April – October 2019
£549 per person
Day 3
January – April & October – December 2019
Pop to Cork
April – October 2019
PRICE INCLUDES: Return flights to Ireland from your local airport; Coach hire & driver services in Ireland; 4 nights’ dinner, bed & breakfast; Tour of Irish Whiskey Museum; Entrance to Malahide Castle & Gardens and Guinness Storehouse; Traditional Irish night.
March – October 2019 Day 1 Day 2
For Groups Only
www.greatdays.co.uk
Follow us on
Prices do not include travel insurance. Transport not included unless specified. Dates subject to availability. All flights based on low cost airline. 1 piece of hold luggage included per person. Exchange rate £1 = €1.13. All prices include ATOL protection. Prices based on 20 paying passengers and include 1 free place for the group leader. Please contact us for more details on routes. Greatdays Holidays Ltd has an ATOL licence (4279) and all of our air package tours are protected under this licence. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to:www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate
FP Template.indd 81
09/08/2018 21:58
York
In the footsteps of the
Vikings
The Vikings are coming! Travel back to AD960 at the Jorvik Viking Centre
Discover the ancient walled city of York, from its history and heritage to its infamous rogues... JORVIK VIKING CENTRE
The gallery experiences have been
Where? Coppergate
updated, with display cases allowing you
and a cast of actors are used to create a
Contact: jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk
to get up close to real Viking artefacts.
unique, 75-minute walk-through experience
This award-winning attraction invites visitors to
You can dig deeper into the Viking story
visitors can see, hear, touch, smell and feel.
hop aboard its new, improved ride experience
of York using the latest in cutting-edge
and travel back to the year AD960. Eric
technology, and the centre’s Viking hosts are
plotter Guy Fawkes and the infamous
Bloodaxe, the last Viking King in Jorvik (the
on hand to help bring the period to life.
highwayman Dick Turpin (who’s buried
Viking name for York), has been expelled and
TIP: Pre-book for a guaranteed time slot
here following his execution in the city for
the city’s in a state of flux...
and to fast track the queues, and get a
horse theft), then receive a check-up from
discount if there are 15 or more of you.
the dungeon’s resident plague doctor...
Learn that York was home to the traitorous
TIP: Pre-book your tickets online and select
WHEN IN YORK…
YORK DUNGEONS
Visit York has put together a number of
Where? Clifford Street
depending on the type of ticket you go for,
group-friendly itineraries at visityork.org,
Contact: thedungeons.com/york/en/
with Sinner’s Saver Tickets just £11. Groups
and offers a guide to the best hotels for
Bringing history’s more gruesome elements
of 10 or more get further discounts.
groups, as well as pubs, bars and
to life, the UK’s nationwide network of
restaurants, with an easy to use online
Dungeons take the art of story-telling to
search engine. You can also ring 01904
another level, with attractions in London,
THE NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM
554471 for help putting your group visit
Blackpool, Edinburgh, Warwick Castle and,
Where: Leeman Road
together, or email trade@visityork.org
of course, York.
Contact: railwaymuseum.org.uk
Expect a hefty dose of black humour and spooky tales as high-tech special effects
the time of your visit to save around £5 each,
Stunning locomotives take centre stage at this iconic, family-friendly museum, which
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02/08/2018 12:19
Visit Exeter Group Travel World ad 220518.qxp 22/05/2018 1:58 pm Page 1
Discover what everyone is talking about... Bring your group to Exeter and explore 2,000 years of historic attractions, from the magnificent Cathedral and medieval Underground Passages, to the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum and picturesque Quayside. Take a Red Coat Guided Tour of the city; enjoy delicious local food and drink, or simply shop ‘til you drop, Relaxation Exeter has it all… History & Herita ge
www.visitexeter.com
Food & Drink
Culture
Activities
Shopping
visitexeter
Visit Exeter
visitexeter
GROUP RATES AVAILABLE
“A peaceful and beautiful hotel just a short stroll from The Shambles”
Catering for groups from 10 to 50!
Close proximity to local attractions such as York Minster and National Railway Museum yet a fantastic base for exploring other nearby locations such as Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay, Castle Howard and Yorkshire Moors. Located within the city walls, Middletons is a peaceful and beautiful haven just a short stroll from The Shambles.
CONTACT US NOW FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
01904 611570
www.middletonsyork.co.uk
York tells the history of the railways through its
YORK MINSTER
260-strong collection of locos and vehicles
Where: Deangate
that sit alongside a diverse mix of relics,
Contact: yorkminster.org
paintings, photographs and more. From the
Northern Europe’s largest Gothic cathedral,
George Cross medal awarded posthumously
York Minster took more than 250 years to
to train driver Wallace Oakes after he stayed
complete, and private guided tours give groups
aboard a burning locomotive to prevent a
a taste of its 2,000-year history – as does its
serious accident in 1965, to a section of the
state-of-the-art Undercroft Museum (find out
original Britannia Bridge, designed by railway
more at yorkminster.org/visit/groups).
pioneer Robert Stephenson, it’s all here,
DID YOU KNOW? The cathedral has more
together with a number of special events held
medieval stained glass than anywhere else
throughout the year.
in the country and now, for the first time in
TIP: If you’re going in a group of 10 or more,
nearly a decade, visitors can once again see
book ahead for a range of perks, including
one of its most famous works of art – the
year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.
a discount in the shop and reduced
Great East Window – which was revealed
See for yourself why it’s such a hit as you
coach parking.
The award-winning York’s Chocolate Story
earlier this year following a major
explore 3,000 years of choc-filled history,
restoration and conservation project.
and check out the attraction’s year-round
YORK’S CHOCOLATE STORY
events, including this winter’s Santa’s Sweet Adventure, which runs from November 24 to Christmas Eve.
Contact: yorkschocolatestory.com
TIP: There are discounts and special offers for
Unwrap the history of chocolate at
groups of 15 or more – pre-book by emailing
this tasty attraction that won a gold
groups@continuumattractions.com or call
award for its guided tours in this
01904 261262.
PIXABAY/MIC
HAEL D BECKW
ITH
Where: King’s Square
l has more The cathedra ned glass than medieval stai y in the countr se el re he yw an
York Minster welcomes groups from around the globe who come to experience the 800-year-old cathedral
PIXABAY/FE GREENE
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Register now for free entry to the...
& Thursday 11th October 2018 Hall 19, NEC Birmingham
Britain’s biggest exhibition for groups planning trips, holidays and visits A world class venue, celebrity guests, free parking*, brilliant range of venues and attractions and top class seminars.
to credit: Carol K lei Pho n.
Listen free to a superb selection of celebrity experts, including...
Carol Klein TV gardener
Gyles Brandreth
Author and broadcaster
Simon Calder TV travel expert
FREE: Entry • Seminars • Parking* • UK Coach transport* • Bacon butty breakfast*
Coach routes are now available. Vis it www.grouptravelshow.com/coa ch-transport for full details.
Go online to www.grouptravelshow.com/register Visitor Hotline: 0345 130 7752 • Website: www.grouptravelshow.com
There IS a difference. *Terms & conditions apply. Please see www.grouptravelshow.com for full details. Seminar sessions and appearances subject to change.
Y4182 GLTS 2018 advert for GTW August.indd 1
10/07/2018 16:40
York YORK CASTLE MUSEUM
TIP: Special offers and discounts apply for
Where: Eye of York
groups of 10 or more, including the chance to
We’re loving...
Contact: yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk
take a 45-minute tour of Kirkgate. To find out
...the all-day pass (complete with comfy
This year marks its 80th birthday, and York
more email groupbookings@ymt.org.uk or call
seat) you get for just £14 on York’s City
Castle Museum is as popular today as it
01904 687633.
Sightseeing Bus. The hop on, hop off tour
was back in 1938 when it first opened on
takes around an hour, but each ticket’s
St George’s Day. People queued up around
CLIFFORD’S TOWER
the Eye of York to see its ground-breaking
Where: Tower Street
your heart’s content and create your
displays, and since then more than 32 million
Contact: english-heritage.org.uk
own itinerary as you learn the history of
people have visited.
Expect panoramic views over York on a
Housed in a Grade I listed former debtors’
valid for 24 hours, so you can use it to
visit to Clifford’s Tower – almost
prison, the museum was founded by local
all that remains of York Castle
GP, Dr John Kirk, and tells the social history
and a site that’s served as
of everyday life in the county from Victorian
a prison and royal mint
times – its focal point its now world-famous
over the centuries. Tour
recreated Victorian street, known as Kirkgate.
the tower, climb right
And so to bed...
York’s oldest buildings and its rogue inhabitants. Find out more at city-sightseeing.com
Just a short drive from the city centre is York Designer Outlet, home to brands as diverse as Armani, Bose, Cadbury’s, Joules and M&S. See mcarthurglen.com
to the top to explore the open-air wall walk, and discover its mighty connections (it was built by William the Conqueror
Middletons Hotel is slap bang in the heart of
across its 56 rooms, split
York, making it the ideal spot for groups and
between six listed buildings.
families who want to make a short break of
There’s an elegant restaurant too
it. Check out its website for the latest deals
for afternoon tea, lunch and dinner,
at middletonsyork.co.uk, and get set to
as well as top-notch leisure facilities once
as well as free entry for the coach driver and
enjoy all this Grade II listed pad has to offer
you’ve overdone the fine fare.
tour leader. Find out more at english-heritage
to strengthen his military grip on the north).
TIP: Go in a group of 11 of more and get a 15% discount,
PIXABA
.org.uk/about-us/group-visits/
GTW
Clifford’s Tower is almost all that remains of York Castle
WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Bringing history to life
As Sherborne celebrates an important milestone this year, GTW’s Lorraine Jackson explores all this Dorset town has to offer
T
HIS YEAR MARKS the 400th anniversary
parkland, the castle is now home to the
of the death of Sir Walter Raleigh, and
Digby Wingfield family, having been bought
his influence is felt strongly in the small market
by Sir John Digby in 1617. Visitors touring
town of Sherborne in Dorset where he lived
the house can view grand collections of art,
for part of his life.
furniture and porcelain. Tour guides help bring
Sherborne New Castle has views over the ruins of the Old Castle
In fact Raleigh is responsible for the fact
history to life, and ‘Great Stories’ information
there are two castles in the town. He leased
sheets highlight the castle’s key moments. An
refreshments in the tea room or outside on
Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic or take
the original 12th century castle in 1592 and
exhibition is also running this year to recognise
the patio. There’s a gift shop in the courtyard,
planned to turn it into a fine residence. The
Raleigh’s ties with Sherborne.
and free coach and car parking right in front
The wonderful English landscape garden
of the castle entrance. It’s worth noting that
chose to build a mansion close by. Sherborne
was designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown,
wheelchair users are restricted to the ground
New Castle was completed and became his
and sweeping lawns, herbaceous borders
floor of the castle as there’s no lift and the
home in 1594 – and the former castle ruins,
and majestic specimen trees fill the grounds.
stairs to the first floor are narrow. However,
known as ‘Old Castle’, are now preserved by
Paths lead beyond the castle courtyard and
a slide show is made available to view the
English Heritage, see english-heritage.org.uk
The Orangery to the boathouse and pier,
upstairs rooms.
idea proved too costly however, and instead he
My visit to Sherborne New Castle took place
from which are views of the Old Castle ruins.
Group visits are welcomed and private
during a sunny bank holiday weekend. Set in
A longer walk takes you round the lake past
guided tours can be arranged, see
beautiful grounds with deer in the surrounding
Raleigh’s seat, rockery and cascade.
sherbornecastle.com or call 01935 812072.
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Sherborne Sir Walter Raleigh is a former local
EXPLORING THE TOWN
a small museum. It boasts a characterful high
code breaker Alan Turing was a former pupil.
Sherborne itself is an attractive medieval town,
street, a choice of restaurants and cafés and
We finished our tour at the centuries old
six miles east of Yeovil and close to major
several public parks.
Sherborne Abbey, which has prime position
trunk routes connecting with the south west.
I was fortunate to take a walking tour with
in the centre. Cindy was a mine of information
It’s served by a railway line, with trains from
resident Blue Badge Guide Cindy Chant, and
London Waterloo in just over two hours and
learned much about the history of Sherborne,
Find out more at sherbornewalks.co.uk
Exeter in a little over an hour.
including more about Raleigh and others who
or email cindyatsherbornewalks@gmail.com
With numerous historic buildings, the town’s home to the beautiful Sherborne Abbey, St Johns Almshouse, independent schools and
influenced the town. I visited the location of the famous public school Sherborne School for Boys, where
and a lively host... thank you!
A VARIED LINE-UP Sherborne plays host to a number of events – and one of which, the award-winning Abbey Music Festival, was taking place over the weekend of my visit. The popular
A RELAXING VIBE
five-day festival had a full programme of
Lorraine stayed in The Eastbury, a three-star
terrace with seating area and a guest lounge.
musical ensembles taking place in venues
boutique hotel a short distance from the
Free car parking is provided to the rear of
throughout the town. Despite this Sherborne
centre in a peaceful setting.
the hotel and coach parking is accessible a
was pleasantly quiet, making it a delightful
few streets away in Culverhayes car park.
alternative to other busy tourist destinations
three floors, each of which is tastefully
A word of warning: there isn’t a lift for
in the area.
decorated in its own individual style. It has
guests, however it is possible to arrange
an on-site restaurant overlooking a pretty,
help with transferring luggage to your room.
The Eastbury has 23 rooms, spread over
secluded walled garden and is also open to non-residents, together with its outside
Visit theeastburyhotel.co.uk or call 01935 813131.
Upcoming events to check out later this year are the Sherborne Literary Festival and International Film Festivals, both held in October. Find out more about both festivals at sherborneabbeyfestival.org and sherbornedorset.co.uk/whats-on-2 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Tried & tested The De Vere Tortworth Court Hotel is set in a Grade II* listed Victorian mansion
A pleasure to explore An exceptional hotel with a fantastic choice of attractions close by, GTW’s Jonathan Taylor heads to the De Vere Tortworth Court Hotel in Gloucestershire
A
Plan your stay at phcompany .com/de-vere/ tortworth-court
N OVERNIGHT TRIP to try out this
are the value for money group rates in what
De Vere hotel proved quite a revelation.
is an exceptional hotel, and the fantastic
Dr Edward Jenner who, in 1796, discovered
choice of attractions within a short drive.
and successfully tested a treatment for
Not only is it a magnificent property in
Virtually next door is the former home of
The closest attraction is one of Britain’s
smallpox. This pivotal discovery, which he
round in their own right), its location makes it
most romantic castles, Berkeley Castle. Still
named a ‘vaccine’, had a dramatic effect
the perfect choice for a top-class group trip.
privately owned, it’s been the seat of the
on human health worldwide. His house
Berkeley family since the 12th century, and
is open to visit and provides a complete
indoors, and good quality rooms of different
its warm dark pink stone helps it sit perfectly
contrast to the castle; the adjacent church
types both in the main house and in adjoining
in its lush grounds and lovely English garden
is also a must-see medieval beauty.
converted ancillary buildings, as well as a
flower terraces. The interior contains many
choice of two restaurants, a spa and pool.
fine rooms and fascinating historic treasures.
Tortworth, while further afield, but only a
But the two main attractions of staying here
It is, quite simply, a pleasure to explore.
short drive away, are Bristol and Bath, as
outstanding grounds (worth a good walk
The hotel has grand public spaces to enjoy
These attractions are within five miles of
well as some fine National Trust properties, Clevedon pier: described by Sir John Betjeman as ‘the most beautiful in England’
including Tyntesfield (tip: book well in advance for the house). Coast and wildlife fans will enjoy a trip to Clevedon on the Somerset coast, described by Sir John Betjeman as possessing ‘the most beautiful pier in England’, which was designated a Grade I listed building in 2001. While just
PIXABAY
up the Severn estuary coast is the world famous bird sanctuary at Slimbridge.
GTW
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Ragley Hall Park & Gardens, Warwickshire, B49 5NJ events@ragley.co.uk 01789 762090 www.ragley.co.uk
Inspiring days out for groups at RHS Gardens
Save up to 50% on repeat visits*
Start planning your group visit today
www.rhs.org.uk/groups 020 7821 3170
*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 RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262
Family home of the Marquess & Marchioness of Hertford. Group Tours available all year round with optional Cream Teas, Lunches and Head Ga Gardener talks.
SAVE UP TO
ÂŁ150 off brochure prices
PLUS
FREE PLACES
*
Amazing savings for groups of 10 or moreâ€
discove
MORE WITH FRIEND
*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 pri used in conjunction with any other offer, are subject to availability and can be withdrawn at anytime. Visit our website for full terms & conditio
QP Template.indd 11
Into the
DEEP
S
and groups, but in a new move that will please
Stunning lochs, magnificent beaches and world-class cities... Scotland has it all
anyone destined for a Scottish road trip, it’s offering an alternative to the usual motorway services. Its ‘meal stops’ can be taken in the Mill One restaurant at the four-star New Lanark Mill Hotel or the Mill Café. “Meal stop offers a convenient way for groups to come and have lunch or afternoon tea, and see a little of what makes New Lanark Mills World Heritage Site such a special place,” says Lynne
COTLAND’S HOME TO six UNESCO
the most visited of these UNESCO beauties
Cooper. “We’re only 20 minutes from the
World Heritage sites, including The Forth
is New Lanark Mills, an 18th century cotton
main M74 motorway, going north or south,
Bridge and the now unoccupied island of
spinning mill village that sits astride the
which makes us as a rather special alternative
St Kilda (the most remote part of the British
River Clyde an hour south of Glasgow.
to the usual services!” Call 01555 667220
The attraction is already a hit with families
to find out more or see newlanark.org
PIXABAY & SHUTTERSTOCK
Isles that’s famous for its puffins). But one of
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Scotland GREAT SCOT!
(inveraray-castle.com) to Dunvegan
piles aside, Scotland’s fabulous landscape
Hailed as one of the great houses of
Castle on the Isle of Skye, expect history
also has an important role in producing
Scotland, Mellerstain House and Gardens is
to be revisited in stunning style.
one of the country’s most famous
happy to open its door to groups outside
The latter is the home of Hugh MacCleod,
exports, Scotch whisky – and a new
of its official opening times for a guided
the 30th Chief of the MacCleod Clan who
introduction at Edinburgh’s Scotch
tour of this historic gem (email enquiries@
lives with his family in what is Scotland’s
Whisky Experience explains all.
mellerstain.com for details). Set in the
longest continuously inhabited castle.
Scottish Borders, this fantastic mansion
Newly revamped for visitors, this is a gem
takes visitors on a 180° bird’s eye tour
house is possibly the only remaining complete
of a castle in a beautiful location with
of Scotland’s five whisky-making regions.
building designed by neoclassical architect
a first class garden, fascinating exhibits
You’ll see Scotland’s landscape come to
Robert Adam, see mellerstain.com
and good food at the MacCleod Tables
life in this experience, which demonstrates
Café, see dunvegancastle.com
how the landscape and geography of
And of course the country has its fair share of castles, too. From Argyll’s Inveraray Castle, which was designed and built in
A WEE DRAM
the 18th century as a grand home
UNESCO World Heritage sites and country
The revamped Sense of Scotland tour
the country contributes towards the flavour of different Scotch whiskies, see scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is home to 21 Munros (mountains above 3,000ft)
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Scotland ALL AT SEA
palaces – both traditional and moored. The
St Hilda Sea Adventures is a family-run
Royal Yacht Britannia, hailed by VisitScotland
Scottish cruise company that’s been
as the country’s best visitor attraction, was
entertaining families and groups for the past
the holiday home of Her Majesty The Queen
decade on its fleet of small ships, offering
for 40 years, and is now berthed in the city.
cruising and wildlife holidays on the beautiful
Groups and families are welcomed on board
west coast of Scotland.
with five main decks to wander around,
Setting sail around the islands, sea lochs
State Apartments to explore and the Royal
and mountains of the Inner and Outer
Deck Tea Room to enjoy. Find out more at
Hebrides, the company’s voyages were voted
royalyachtbritannia.co.uk
in the top 10 best small ship cruises in the
Continuing Edinburgh’s royal theme is
world by The Guardian newspaper last year.
the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s
With two charter boats, St Hilda and Seahorse II, out of Dunstaffnage marina, three miles north of Oban – the gateway
Qui cor andandisquia dolorem.
official city residence, see royalcollection. org.uk/visit/palace-of-holyroodhouse While under the Royal Mile lies the
to the Hebridean islands – the company
award-winning The Real Mary King’s
has recently expanded both its fleet and
Close, a warren of streets frozen in
the watery adventures it offers. New this
time (see realmarykingsclose.com),
year are the Caledonian canal cruise and
and The National Museum of Scotland
the Scottish castles cruise, while next year
in Chambers Street (see nms.ac.uk/
sees the launch of the ‘Skye, Shiant and
national-museum-of-scotland).
GTW
the Summer Isles’ cruise, as well as ‘The Magical Outer Hebrides and Shiant Isles’.
EDINBURGH’S FINEST Of course, no mention of Scotland is complete without a mention of its world famous capital, which is rich in castles and
You can now book your St Hilda Sea Adventures trip through our sister site grouptraveloffers .com! The Royal Yacht Britannia
Cruise with the St Hilda fleet around the islands, sea lochs and mountains of the Inner and Outer Hebrides
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INCREASE YOUR GROUP BOOKINGS AND VISITORS! GLENSHEE SKI CENTRE CAIRNWELL, BRAEMAR, ABERDEENSHIRE AB35 5XU
22 Lifts & 36 38 Runs to suit all levels of skiers and boarders
FACILITES INLCUDE: FACILITIES INCLUDE: EquipmentHire, Hire, Snowsports Snowsports School, Equipment School, Shop Shop &&33Mountain MountainCafés. Café’s. Openingtimes timesare are8.30 8.30am Opening am -– 5pm 5pm (7 (7 days daysaaweek weekduring duringseason) season) Chairliftand and café café open open during during summer Chairlift summer June/September June/September
Effective Fam Visits Showcase your venue to our readers and receive bookings on the day! PRINT ADVERTISING
ONLINE ADVERTISING
Contact the Group Travel World team today Glenshee SkiFax: Centre Tel No: 013397 41320 (dial 1 for snow report) 013397 41665
E-mail: info@ski-glenshee.co.uk
Website: www.ski-glenshee.co.uk
01733 293 487 grouptravelworld.com/media
New Lanark Mills World Heritage Site Discover Scotland’s Hidden Past
New Lanark Mills World Heritage Site is a unique 18th century mill village sitting alongside the picturesque River Clyde less than one hour from Glasgow and Edinburgh. Visitors can see recreated millworkers’ houses, historic working machinery and the nearby ‘Falls of Clyde’ waterfalls. On-site facilities include a Mill Café & Shops, Hotel and Hostel.
Contact Lynne Cooper, our Travel Trade Manager to discuss your group’s visit. 01555 667220 | lynne.cooper@newlanark.org | www.newlanark.org
Part 1: Hanoi to Da Nang
Xin chào! Darren Calpin travels on Vietnam’s Reunification Express – a 1,000 mile train route between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City that serves as a symbol of the country’s peaceful rebirth
F
OR MUCH OF its recent history, Vietnam
21st-century Vietnam is really like. Completed
seem to spend their time welded to the deftly
has been a divided nation: north and
by the occupying French in 1936 to improve
maneuvering scooters that zip around the
south bitterly opposed in their respective
the infrastructure of what was then French
gridlocked streets like impatient dragonflies.
politics, philosophies and allegiances. It took
Indo-China, this steel spinal cord linking the far
Respite is on hand at the picturesque
several wounding wars, but the people of this
north and south is certainly an impressive feat
Temple of Literature, a revered academic
indefatigable state have managed to create,
of engineering, despite catastrophic colonial
retreat originally built as a university in
in today’s Vietnam, a modern, peaceful and
mismanagement.
1070 and dedicated to the life and work of
entirely unified nation.
However, it only ran until 1954, ceasing
Confucius. The well-preserved courtyards,
service when the country officially split in
ponds and landscaped gardens within the
Reunification Express, a 1,000-plus mile
two, and not resuming again until 1976,
hushed, well-preserved grounds are supremely
single-track train route running between Hanoi
just 20 months after the ‘American War’
calming; the perfect antidote to the capital’s
in the north and Ho Chi Minh City in the south,
(as the Vietnam War is known in these parts)
relentless energy.
has been bombed to hell and back. And, like
was over.
Like Vietnam itself, the so-called
Vietnamese society, it has been rebuilt and reopened for business. It is a metaphor of the
THE JOURNEY BEGINS
country’s turbulent recent past, and a symbol
The north-to-south journey starts in the
of its rebirth and reconciliation.
capital of Hanoi, a rapidly developing
The timeless Old Quarter, a collection of intimate, narrow alleys and ancient commercial lanes scattered around Hoan Kiem Lake, is the city’s must-see district. As such, the neighbourhood is often packed
metropolis of gleaming skyscrapers and, at
with fleets of cyclos, quaint three-wheeled
scenery and the romance of long distance train
this time of year (early summer), brow-wiping
bicycle taxis that ferry curious tourists in
travel, is what makes the Reunification Express
humidity. This sprawling, vibrant city is home
sedate style past the tiny Buddhist temples,
arguably the best way to discover what
to more than 8,000,000 souls, most of whom
regal pagodas, banyan trees and medieval
This, combined with the jaw-dropping
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Vietnam by rail
GET ME THERE ■ GRJ
Independent tailor make holidays
to Vietnam for group tour organisers who are developing itineraries for
PIXABAY
Darren’s en route to Ho Chi Minh City, still known locally as Saigon
small and/or large groups. ■ The
journey mentioned here is a
sample trip of eight days, which included merchants’ houses that line the evocative
that’s managed to retain some of its attractive
return air travel with Vietnam Airlines,
old streets. The affluent grandeur of the
1900s features, despite being bombed by the
hotel stays in Hanoi, Hue, Nah Trang and
handsome French Quarter, with its wide
US Air Force in 1972.
Saigon, excursions and selected meals.
boulevards, colonial villas and stunningly
The train itself is a relatively modern diesel
Flight upgrades available to premium economy or business class on request,
grandiose Opera House is, despite being very
locomotive coupled to a long line of red, white
close by, a whole world away.
and blue liveried carriages and a buffet car.
and price subject to date of travel.
Boarding is swift and straightforward, and
■ The
Hanoi’s sprawling suburbs soon drift away at
to suit group interests, including a
Overnight trains for the 1,070 mile journey
a stately speed as the sun inches ever closer
guest speaker for groups interested in
to Ho Chi Minh City, still known locally as
to the horizon. Daytime, as is the way around
the history of Vietnam’s railways.
Saigon, leave every evening from Hanoi
here, will soon retreat at speed.
■ Find
A NIGHT ON THE RAILS
station, a stark, rather imposing grey building
Home for the night is a comfortable four-
team at GRJ can create itineraries
out more at www.greatrail.com/
grj-independent or call 01904 527181.
berth compartment (two upper beds, two PIXABAY
Hanoi is home to more than 8,000,000 people, many of whom take to the streets on two wheels (or three)
lower) with air conditioning and a cute little table next to the window. A serious-looking guard-cum-porter-cum-hostess in a smart
bed. Soon enough though, the bemused
blue uniform tries to navigate a packed snack
traveller gets their bearings and immediately
trolley along the carriage’s side corridor, but is
reaches for the tiny window curtains in the
persistently thwarted by small children loitering
same way a young child might open an advent
in compartment doorways, too excited to go
calendar door. Outside, rice paddies tended
to bed. In contrast, most grown-ups find the
by farm workers sheltering under conical non
rhythmic clickety-clacking and gentle swaying
la bamboo hats spool past, slow enough to
so relaxing that sleep comes easily.
make out faces, yet fast enough to be a mere
There’s nothing quite like waking up after a good night’s sleep on a train. For that first
memory in seconds. This is rural Vietnam; lush, hot and oh so
few seconds the brain tricks the passenger
green. It makes a pleasant backdrop to a
into thinking they’re at home in their own
modest breakfast of warm sticky rice or WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Hanoi’s Old Quarter
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Vietnam by rail The team at GRJ can create itineraries to suit groups, including those interested in the history of Vietnam’s railways
NEXT MONTH: In the second leg of Darren’s Vietnamese rail adventure, he leaves Da Nang’s high-rise hotels behind, heading to the Marble Mountains as he journeys further south towards his final destination, Ho Chi Minh City. dried noodles, which can be hydrated via
an ornate inner sanctum used as a residence
the free boiling water dispensers at the end
by the royal family. Unfortunately, both the
of every carriage.
Imperial City and surrounding citadel suffered
It’s a leisurely start to the day, with yawning travellers leaning against the corridor windows,
substantial damage during the Tet Offensive
compare itineraries and swap Facebook details
stage of the Vietnam War.
over a couple of Saigon Green beers.
making small talk with fellow passengers and
Restoration is diligent, sympathetic and
This part of the journey is known for its
taking snaps of incredulous water buffalo on
slow; bullet holes can still be seen in many of
striking scenery. Even the notoriously grumpy
smartphones. Within an hour though, the
the two-metre thick stone walls. Despite this,
travel writer Paul Theroux once enthused: “Of
tentacle-like outskirts of Vietnam’s former
the friendly guides who lead visitors around
all the places the railway had taken me since
capital chase these rustic vistas away.
the complex, some of whom remember that
London, this was the loveliest.”
period and are willing to talk candidly about
Sure enough, it isn’t long before sweeping
the war, speak of forgiveness and looking to
vistas of the glinting South China Sea drift in
Though it’s quite possible to journey from
the future. This lack of bitterness; this absence
from the east. One after another, arcing bays
Hanoi to Saigon in one straight 33-hour run,
of aggression is, in a quite profound way, even
and secluded coves parade themselves in part,
most first-time visitors to Vietnam opt to stop
more moving than the bombed out monuments
then full view while the creeping loco screeches
off at few places along the way. The ancient
and shattered ruins that continue to scar one
its way up and around the cliff-traversing track.
city of Hué, Vietnam’s capital up until 1945,
of the country’s most revered sites.
THE IMPERIAL CITY
makes a fine pit-stop in this respect. Trips
Not to be outdone, Vietnam’s mountainous interior joins the spectacle, presenting its
in dragon-style tour boats along the famed
STRIKING SCENERY
Perfume River, typically up to the scenic Thien
Easily ensconced in a roomy and thankfully
for inspection as the determined diesel engine
Mu pagoda, are particularly popular. The river is
very airy seating car, the 08.37 southbound
starts the ascent to the route’s highest point
so-called because, every autumn, flowers from
Reunification Express rambles languidly out
nearly 500m above sea level.
orchards further along the river fall into the
of Hué station. Though there are plenty
water, giving it a pleasant, perfume-like aroma.
of Westerners onboard, the majority of
its way up and along the majestic Hai Van
Hué’s biggest draw though is undoubtedly
jungle covered slopes and intimidating peaks
A series of tunnels enables the train to inch
passengers are Vietnamese, many of them
(‘Sea Cloud’) Pass with the dogged yet
the Imperial City, a huge walled palace and
families. The parents chat casually in hushed
laboured efficiency of an ageing heavyweight
UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the seat
tones, while the kids are smiley yet somewhat
boxing champ who refuses to retire. Pass
of power of Vietnam’s ruling Nguyen Dynasty
reserved. Things are a little different in the
negotiated and the locomotive gets a second
right up until the end of the Second World War.
convivial buffet car where off-duty train staff sit
wind, rolling quickly back down toward the bays
Highlights include an unbelievably large flag
at tables playing cards with gregarious kitchen
and boats of the coast, before curving east into
tower and the sublime Forbidden Purple City,
hands, and tourists with gangly, unfurled maps
the ultra-modern city of Da Nang.
GTW
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GTW news Emma (far right) with friends Tracey, Sally and Sam
Emily with her leggy favourites, the giraffes
Wild thing... It’s been a wild summer for GTW’s marketing exec Emily, who trekked to Chester Zoo on a mission to track down the attraction’s stars of the small screen. “I’ve always wanted to go after watching the TV series The Secret Life of the Zoo,” she says. “I was lucky enough to see a baby elephant who was only a few weeks old. He was still finding his feet, and his mum
And they’re off! GTW’s marketing subscriptions manager Emma enjoyed a day of sun, bets and champers (lots of champers!) last month at Newmarket Races in Suffolk... “
W
E HAD A fabulous day at The Moët
– searching for the jockeys and owners
and Chandon July Festival: a lovely
we’d heard of, such as Frankie Dettori and
day out with friends surrounded by horses,
Godolphin. We’ll definitely be back next year,
champagne, gin and sunshine,” says Emma,
trying to win the 2019 style awards!”
pictured above, far right.
■ Explore
was very protective of him, but he was loving playing with his older siblings. “I also got up close to my favourite animals, the giraffes. I could have sat and watched them for hours. The park itself was extremely well kept and the staff were lovely and more than happy to answer any questions about the animals.” ■ Find
out more at chesterzoo.org
The zoo’s had a recent elephant baby boom
what’s on for groups at this
“Newmarket was buzzing. As we’re not
world-famous racing town at
regular race-goers we kept the stakes low
discovernewmarket.co.uk
A tasty treat
Exclusive offer!
GTW’s editor Helen took her family
GTW readers can save 10% on Cadbury
for a sweet trip down memory lane at
World’s Heritage Tour and Afternoon Tea
the famous Cadbury World attraction
package for groups of 15 or more. You
in Bournville. ‘I can’t believe I’ve never
can save 10% Monday to Friday from
been here before!’ came the cry as she
September 5-28 – and pay just £14.85
wandered in and was handed a bundle of
per person. To book, call 0844 880 7667
chocolate bars.
and quote ‘Group Travel World magazine’.
“It’s great fun – and the chocolate you’re given en route’s a definite
Helen and Georgie learn to temper chocolate
bonus!” says Helen. “First up’s the
having a go at tempering chocolate, eating
Aztec jungle walk-through, then you
a pot of it, buying a load more of it in the
learn the history of the company and
shop, eating it in the café – then playing
enjoy a mini-cinema show. But for my
outside in the African Adventure Play Area.”
daughter Georgie the best bits were
■ Plan
your trip at cadburyworld.co.uk
GTW
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02/08/2018 12:35
Group travel specialist, South Quay Travel & Leisure, offers the ‘Complete’ worldwide programme of exciting destinations and a comprehensive tailor-made service to create the perfect group getaway. A wealth of experience gained over 25 years, providing a personalised travel service for private groups, sports & social • clubs, schools, performing arts, special interest, educational trips or, quite simply, for a group of like minded friends. • We are proud to be official group organisers for Disneyland® Paris - magical moments to last a lifetime! • As little as 12 people constitutes a group. • New River Cruise programme, sail some of the most beautiful waterways in the world. Part of the CMV Travel Group, offering worldwide ocean cruises from 14 UK and Ireland • ports with Britain’s leading independent cruise company, Cruise & Maritime Voyages.
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3609
ZSL LONDON ZOO
UKinbound news
Go wild! Enjoy the 25% discount on offer for groups of 10-plus at ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo
D
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
ZSL London Zoo is all about
lush forested pathways where the
getting up close to the animals.
Gorilla Kingdom brings the African
and their habitats, the Zoological
‘In With The Spiders’ at the
rainforest to the heart of London.
Society of London (ZSL) is a
BUGS exhibit allows visitors to
And younger visitors can explore
charity that runs ZSL London
experience Europe’s only walk
Animal Adventure – home to
Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.
through spider enclosure. Other
meerkats, llamas and aardvarks in
amazing interactive exhibits
an immersive animal experience,
in 1828, ZSL London Zoo
include ‘In With The Lemurs’,
designed for children, by children.
has been entertaining and
which takes visitors on a journey
delighting visitors in the heart
through the Madagascan forest
group can explore a huge range
Groups of 10-plus get a
of the capital. With over 650
where lemurs will be leaping,
of exciting exhibits including
25% discount when booking
animal species to discover in
climbing and lounging all around
Cheetah Rock, Giraffe Heights,
their visit to ZSL London or
its exciting and innovative new
them. Visitors can also head down
Passage through Asia, and Lions
Whipsnade Zoo in advance.
exhibits, it’s a perfect way to
to England’s largest penguin pool
of the Serengeti. Look out for
For more information, see
immerse yourself in the animal
at Penguin Beach and watch the
tigers, chimpanzees, giraffes,
www.zsl.org/groups
kingdom. ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is
Humboldt penguins dive, swim,
penguins, zebras, red pandas
the UK’s largest zoo set in 600
frolic and feed, or step Into Africa
and rhinos, and keep an eye out
0344 225 1826 or email
acres of beautiful scenery with
and observe the elegance and
for the zoo’s incredible Asian
info@zsl.org
some of the biggest, rarest and
grace of the giraffes from the
elephants in their new exhibit,
most majestic animals alive.
viewing platform. Move through
Elephant Centre for Care.
EVOTED TO THE worldwide conservation of animals
Since opening to the public
At ZSL Whipsnade Zoo your
FIND OUT MORE
To book today, call GTW
102 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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02/08/2018 12:37
GTW Awards
Drum roll please… PIXABAY
Our GTW Awards celebrate the attractions that go the extra mile to make groups feel welcome, so meet this month’s worthy winners
BEST ATTRACTION
See the best views over London from The Shard
To nominate a hotel, attraction, restaurant or holiday company for our 2018 awards, email helen.milbank@ grouptravelworld.com
Crich Tramway Village Nominated by GTW reader John Shaw, this Derbyshire gem allows visitors to ride the trams, explore old-fashioned period streets and view the indoor exhibitions that tell the history of trams, from horse drawn to steam driven and beyond. ■ Find
out more at tramway.co.uk
Harlow Carr’s famous blue poppies
BEST ATTRACTION
RHS Garden Harlow Carr
BEST ATTRACTION
Nominated by keen gardener June
The Shard
Ferreday, RHS Garden Harlow Carr
Western Europe’s tallest building, The
in Harrogate gets her vote after she
Shard is a firm favourite with the GTW
spent the day there earlier this summer
team, towering over London, standing
with her family. “It was a wonderful
800ft (244m) high and offering 360°
place to wander around,” says June.
views across the city from its level 69
“We saw the most beautiful blue
observation deck. Interactive digital
poppies and the children loved the
telescopes and multimedia guides enable
hedgehog-friendly garden.”
visitors to experience the entire city like
Events coming up this year at the
never before, and there are restaurants and
garden include October half-term
bars serving everything from afternoon tea
hocus pocus (from October 27
to champers.
to November 4) and Glow (from
■ Find out more at the-shard.com or
November 22 to December 29).
theviewfromtheshard.com – and see
■ Find
page 44 for more on the attraction. GTW
out more at rhs.org.uk/
gardens/harlow-carr WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
103 GTW Aug 18 GTW awards.indd 99
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02/08/2018 12:38
GET THE NEXT 3 ISSUES FOR JUST £3 GROUP TRAVEL WORLD EDITOR
Helen Milbank “Every month Group Travel World magazine brings you inspirational travel features, days out ideas, and expert advice to help you plan your next trip, as well as regular competitions, crosswords and puzzles, the latest news, celebrity interviews and more. Plus we can help you save money thanks to our new and exclusive ticket offers site, grouptraveloffers. com. We’d love you to join the Group Travel World community – and at just £3 for 3 issues (plus free delivery to your door every month) you’d be mad not to join us!”
Subscribe in 3 easy steps Call Emma Parkes on 01733 293487 Email emma.parkes@grouptravelworld.com Visit www.grouptravelworld.com/subscribe GTW Subscriptions DPS 3 for £3.indd 100
11/05/2018 12:58
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Dine in style on board Bateaux London Cruises
Your travel questions answered by experts
Making a splash Going potty
Q Where can I take a group of pottery
Q We’re planning a big family trip to
accompanied by live music. See bateauxlondon.com
London in the autumn. Any ideas for a
Alternatively, opt for lunch, dinner or
quirky lunch or dinner stop? Daisy Hill, Co Durham
afternoon tea as you travel the river with City Cruises. Great value (with prices
A Travel writer Sue Parslow says:
A GTW’s editor Helen Milbank says:
Why not take to the river? Famous for their
hour Riverpass ticket), boats leave from
lunches, dinners and afternoon tea packages
Westminster Pier, London Eye Pier, Tower
Back in 1759 a certain Josiah Wedgwood
on the water, Bateaux London Cruises take you
Pier and Greenwich Pier – and Westminster
founded what was to become one of the best
past the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s
to Greenwich takes just 30 minutes, so
known fine china, porcelain and luxury
Cathedral, the Tower of London and other
you can use it like a water taxi service as
accessories companies in the world, and 250
major landmarks while you tuck in,
well as a diner. See citycruises.com
enthusiasts that’s fun and hands-on? Millie Roberts, Staffordshire
from £10 for a hop-on, hop-off 24-
years or so later, the award-winning World of that’s great about the brand. With its museum, factory tour, hands-on experiences and top-notch eateries, the
Gathering steam
Q We’re a bunch of Harry Potter fans
attraction breathes new life into the age-
who want to theme our next break around
old designs. And then there’s the shopping
him. Any ideas?
– with two stores on site, as well as a
Katy McArthur, Northants
factory shop selling cut-price collectibles.
A Travel writer Naomi MacKay says:
Visits can be tailored to your group’s interests: have an expert lead you around the
A bona fide star of the Harry Potter films, the
V&A-owned museum, for example, or enjoy
North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s Goathland
an experience day complete with tea tasting.
station played the part of Hogsmeade Station
As there’s so much to do I’d suggest you allow at least four to five hours for
in the first Harry Potter film. Smaller groups of five or less can immerse
PIXABAY
Wedgwood near Stoke-on-Trent celebrates all
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway
your visit. Group organisers and coach
themselves in the railway experience,
drivers get in free, there’s a drop-off and
either by staying in the Grosmon Station
pick-up point for coaches, and you can
House or the Lewisham Camping Coach,
families of up to four can stay in the
find out more by calling 01782 282986
where you can watch the trains arriving
Goathland Camping Coach at Hogsmeade/
or clicking on worldofwedgwood.com
at the station from your window. While
Goathland station itself. See nymr.co.uk
106 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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02/08/2018 12:40
Q&A
VISIT BRITAIN
Kenilworth Castle is the former home of the Earl of Leicester, the one true love of Elizabeth I
History repeats
Q My friends and I love spending the
KENILWORTH CASTLE
state rooms, and experience the tranquillity
day at historic houses, castles and abbeys.
Used as a Lancastrian base during the Wars of
of the Earl’s private Chapel.
Any tips for great places to visit within an
the Roses, Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire
hour’s drive or so of Leicester?
is described as ‘the finest surviving example
to travel back in time, get a group of seven
Sue Holt, via email
of a semi-royal palace of the later Middle
or more together to benefit from group
A GTW’s editor Helen Milbank says:
Ages’ and is significant for its role in one of
discounts. And for the best ticket deals, visit
history’s most famous love stories. In 1563,
our sister site grouptraveloffers.com
Belvoir Castle is a gem of a Regency castle,
Kenilworth became the home of the Earl of
tucked away in Leicestershire’s Vale of Belvoir
Leicester, the one true love of Elizabeth I. His
ASHBY DE LA ZOUCH CASTLE
just off the A1. Considered one of the finest
alterations point to his affection for her, but
The ruined fortification of Ashby de la
examples of Regency architecture in the world,
were destroyed during the Civil War and left to
Zouch Castle towers majestically above
it’s been the home of the Duke of Rutland’s
ruin. Visit english-heritage.org.uk
the Leicestershire countryside. The original
family since 1067, and groups of 20 or more
If this medieval wonderland has you keen
11th century manor house was added to
can enjoy a guided tour of the castle, as well
WARWICK CASTLE
as entry to the grounds, which is home to a
Over in Warwickshire is one of England’s most
English Civil War, falling into disrepair under
Rose Garden, Japanese Woodland and more.
amazing castles. Behind Warwick Castle’s
the Parliamentarians. Today, The Great Tower
Unsurprisingly, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown had
mighty walls lies the heart of the castle and
remains open and offers amazing views of
a hand in the gardens’ designs, and a Capability
its beautiful, grand interiors, where you can
the surrounding landscape. Find out more at
tour is also available. See belvoircastle.com
marvel at the Great Hall, explore the lavish
english-heritage.org.uk
over the centuries, but damaged during the
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106-108 GTW Aug 18 Q&As.indd 107
107
02/08/2018 12:40
Q&A
Proudly sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society
The Winter Walk at RHS Garden Wisley
Melissa Hackney is Groups
Sales & Marketing Manager at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
RHS
MEET OUR EXPERT
RHS Gardens and groups: the latest tips and practical advice from the RHS. Got a gardening question you’d like answered? Email groups@rhs.org.uk
Q We’re booked to visit Wisley in
fabulous century-old conifers in the Pinetum.
Alison Scott, W Sussex
and flower displays, is also a lovely spot in
A My office is located at Wisley and I love the
winter. Not only is it warm, but there are some
December. What should we look out for?
garden in winter. There’s a special Winter Walk
route, which highlights scented plants and shrubs with colourful stems and leaves, as well as the
to be booked in advance, but it’s only
The Glasshouse, with its tree ferns, palms
£3pp, and they can take you straight to the areas that have the most to see. Depending on which day you’re coming, there
great displays – this December there’ll be a
is also our fabulous Glow event in the evening
festive display of poinsettias and cyclamen.
– and make sure you don’t miss out on the
Why not book one of our volunteer
Christmas shopping. Groups get a discount of
guides to show you round? This needs
How big?! RHS Garden Hyde Hall is proud of its veg
Jim Chamberlin, Birmingham
RHS
Q I’m looking to plant an apple tree in
our garden – any tips?
£5pp in the shop (based on a minimum spend).
round inventory of what is available so he can plan some special ‘one off’ meals to incorporate the more unusual edibles. During the Taste of
A Apple trees are one of the easiest and
Autumn Food Festival (October 6-7) there will
700 varieties in our RHS plant finder. Factors
vegetables, fruit and herbs, which would
to bear in mind are the space you have
give you heaps of inspiration. Alternatively,
be special ‘Field to Fork’ demonstrations as well. Wisley has a huge area dedicated to
most popular trees to grow – we have over
Q Our group is looking for some
in Devon, RHS Garden Rosemoor has
inspiration for Grow Your Own – which is
grown using a range of methods, including
days and events at our gardens, where you
the best garden to visit?
traditional rows, raised beds, small areas,
can get inspiration and advice, such as Harlow
Katie Crockett, Kent
containers and catch crops. Every available
Carr’s Autumn Festival from September
A All our gardens have fantastic vegetable
space is used and it’s really inspirational.
available, how disease resistant the breed is and also which apples you like the taste of. We have some great autumnal-themed
28-30 and the Apple Festival at Rosemoor
a beautiful fruit and vegetable garden,
from October 6-7.
and fruit gardens, and we’re increasingly looking
Wisley’s had a
to include ‘garden-grown’ produce in the meals
Experience the ultimate gardening day
we offer in our restaurants.
out with the RHS at its four gardens
particularly good crop this year, and
RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex has a special
– RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey; RHS
its Taste of Autumn
Global Growth Vegetable Garden with a range
Garden Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire;
Festival (October
of everyday, exotic and edible ornamental
RHS Garden Hyde Hall in Essex and
17-21) would be a
vegetables planted within a globe-like design.
RHS Garden Rosemoor in North
great chance to taste
As well as daily offerings in the restaurant,
Devon. See rhs.org.uk/groups or
some and get further
horticulturist Matthew Oliver is working with
email groups@rhs.org.uk
advice and inspiration.
Hyde Hall chef James Curtis to provide a year-
GTW
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Over to you
We want to hear from you!
Write, Facebook, Tweet or email helen.milbank@grouptravelworld.com
STAR LETTER
Hitting the slopes Y
OUR FEATURE ON the Glenshee
And it made me itch to get back on skis
ski resort in Scotland last issue
and sample the British snow scene again.
(GTW, issue 187) took me back to when
In recent years my wife and I have enjoyed
we were growing up in the late 1960s.
several ski holidays in the Pyrenees, but
My parents had grown up skiing the Scottish mountains, using age-old, battered
maybe this season we’ll stay here instead... Simon Hutton, Co Durham
and safety in the days before proper lifts
A WORD FROM THE ED: I second that!
We’re loving...
and pistes. They passed their gung-ho
Seeing Glenshee’s vast, empty slopes
...this cheeky road sign, as spotted
attitude down to my brother and I, who
made me want to make the trek north and
by Chris Wales of the Coach Tourism
spent a couple of weeks every winter up
experience Scotland’s ski scene, which just
Association on his recent travels.
near Dundee, praying for enough snow to
seems to get better and better each year.
We think he’s set the bar high, so to
catapult ourselves down the nearest slope.
Maybe we’ll bump into each other on the
speak – but if anyone spots a sign to
lifts! For more on this Aberdeenshire
top this one, email a pic to Helen!
skis and paying scant regard to health
It was great to read that the Glenshee Ski Centre’s come on a bit since those days!
ski centre see ski-glenshee.co.uk
110 WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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Your shout Taking to the water I’ve just come back from a family holiday
A WORD FROM THE ED: Thanks for
to Devon and had to give a big shout
the heads up, Angie. Find out more
out to the lovely team at Stuart Line
about Stuart Line Cruises’ boat trips at
Cruises, who really looked after us when we
stuartlinecruises.co.uk
took one of their trips along the River Exe. I had no idea the river was so teeming with wildlife and history – a fantastic afternoon.
Stuart Line Cruises offer everything from cream tea trips to evening cruises
Angie Garton, Warwickshire
Very puzzling!
Come fly with me
Here’s Ruby Parkes (daughter of GTW’s
I enjoyed seeing the old photos of Gatwick
Emma) getting to grips with our puzzle
airport in last month’s magazine (GTW,
pages. Turn the page for this month’s
issue 187). Who’d have thought the
quizzes – and have you spotted Harvey
lovely Princess Diana would be gracing the
yet? If you’re new to the find Harvey
pages of Group Travel World in 2018!
game, again turn the page to find out
Lesley Batley, Somerset
more. And well done to everyone who spotted him last issue – he was very well hidden, checking people in at Southend Airport on page 91!
MINI BOOK REVIEW
Running Wild by Austin Stevens Price: £9.99 (paperback), £3.50 (Kindle)
Dozen, and here, for the first time, he reveals
Contact: austinmacauley.com
the close encounters with death – from a terrorist ambush and cerebral malaria to a near
The latest book by wildlife
fatal car accident – that have
photographer and TV
shaped the direction of his life.
presenter Austin Stevens,
As the man himself says:
Running Wild is a collection
“One has to adapt or die, and
of stories spanning more
rather than the latter I chose the
than 40 years of mishaps
former, which, in overwhelming
and adventures during his
abundance, exposed me
time working with wildlife in
to periods of excitement,
South Africa. Austin’s been
adventure and humour...”
nominated for several awards
■ Do
for his work in shows including
book or DVD you’d like to rave
Snakemaster, Seven Deadly
about? Email Helen with the
Strikes and Africa’s Deadly
details at the usual address.
you have a favourite
Keep in touch... We want to hear from you! Write to: Group Travel World magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Email: helen.milbank@ grouptravelworld.com Advertising query? Call Julie Cousins on 01733 293242 Subscription query? Emma Parkes is here to help. Call her on 01733 293487 Need attraction & show tickets? Call Harley on 01733 293249 Visit www.grouptravelworld.com follow Facebook.com/ grouptravelworld and see us on Twitter @GTWMagazine GTW
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Puzzle time
Test your grey matter – answers on page 113
Try our quizzes and brain teasers every month
PICTURE QUIZ
PIXABAY
Knebworth House in Hertfordshire was used as a set for hit movie The King’s Speech. Who played Prince Albert in the film?
You can now enjoy our puzzles online too! See the new & improved grouptravelworld .com
W RD
SEARCH Can you find the following words in the grid? All are popular houses and gardens:
KENTWELL LONGLEAT WREST PARK HOUGHTON ELTHAM BOWOOD ROSEMOOR WISLEY WOBURN EDEN
WO R T E L T H A M RNOT H G U O H O E R L O N G L E A T SOE D E N C T A P TOE I L L I M S T P MK E N TWE L L A E I G RO E G X Y R S A T N R U B OW KO L Y E L S I W X U R B OWO O D F I
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 October 1, 2018 or head online to grouptravelworld.com/competition
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Puzzles
Crossword ACROSS 1 5 8 9 10 11 13 16 17 20 21 22 23
South North American republic (6) Warning (3-3) Version still being developed (4) Boss (8) Packages (7) Literary work (4) Donkey (5,2,6) Close (4) Commander in chief of a fleet (7) Parasol (8) Wicked (4) Gorge (6) Loftier (6)
DOWN 2 3 4 5 6 7 12 14 15 16 18 19
Lift up (7) Hebrew patriarch (5) Fail to notice (8) Class (4) Flourish (7) Eats (5) Submissive to authority (8) Soft and moist (7) Scrutinise (7) Sweatbox (5) Standard of perfection (5) Futile (4)
QUICK QUIZ 2
3
4
VISIT BRITAIN
VISIT ENGLAND
1
used by Henry VIII and his first
Q Leeds Castle in Kent was
famous Northern Ireland
Q Can you name this
Q This national park is home to
the highest coastline on the British
attraction, which first opened its
Q Can you name this Cornish
wife. But who was she?
attraction?
mainland. Can you name it?
doors in 2001?
4. The Eden Project. Where’s Harvey? In issue 187, Harvey was checking people in at Southend airport on page 91. He didn’t have much of a queue! 16 Sauna, 18 Ideal, 19 Vain. Picture quiz answer: Colin Firth Quick quiz: 1. Catherine of Aragon; 2. The Titanic Experience in Belfast; 3. Exmoor; Sunshade, 21 Evil, 22 Canyon, 23 Taller. (Down) 2 Elevate, 3 Isaac, 4 Overlook, 5 Type, 6 Prosper, 7 Feeds, 12 Obedient, 14 Squishy, 15 Examine, Crossword solution: (Across) 1 Mexico, 5 Tip-off, 8 Beta, 9 Employer, 10 Parcels, 11 Opus, 13 Beast of burden, 16 Shut, 17 Admiral, 20
Answers WWW.GROUPTRAVELWORLD.COM
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And finally...
IN THE FIRST OF A NEW SERIES, WE JET OFF ON A EURO MINI BREAK. SO LET’S SEE WHAT THERE IS TO DO IN A SHORT SPACE OF TIME IN...
...Paris J
■ The
Eiffel Tower. Why?
■ The
Louvre. Why? Largely
The views (it’s 324m high),
because it’s the most visited
the history (it was built to
art museum in the world.
commemorate the centenary
Not a reason in itself to go,
AM-PACKED WITH ICONIC
lived-in – there’s no empty
of the French Revolution),
but it would be a shame to
monuments, infectiously
heart here. So, when you roam
and the fact that 7,000,000
miss out on this former
evocative neighbourhoods and
around the Marais, order crepes
visitors a year can’t be wrong.
royal palace that’s best
truly fabulous eateries, few
from a street vendor, or come
■ Notre
known for being home to
world capitals have as much to
over all existential at La Sacre
It’s considered one of the finest
offer as Paris. And sprinkled on
Coeur, you can’t help but actually
examples of French
top of all this is the city’s own
feel a little Parisian, and that in
Gothic architecture in
inimitable charm... that certain
itself is a travel experience well
Europe. Plus you can
je ne sais quoi that makes even
worth having (and sharing).
climb the 387 steps
simple pleasures, like strolling the WORDS: DARREN CALPIN; PHOTOS: PIXABAY
OUR TOP 3 TO VISIT…
And another thing... It’s
Dame Cathedral. Why?
GTW
The Louvre
to the top of the
streets and sitting outside bistros,
worth noting that travelling by
towers if you so
immensely rewarding experiences.
Eurostar can be a particularly
wish for panoramic
good option for groups as they
views and the
must derive from the fact that
offer discounts, help with luggage
chance to see
this isn’t a ‘tourist city’ by any
and can even book coaches.
those famous
measure. Even in popularly visited
Call 0344 822 4800, email
gargoyles up close.
areas like the Latin Quarter and
groups@eurostar.com or see
Montmartre, Paris feels intensely
eurostar.com to find out more.
Part of this magical aura
the Mona Lisa.
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THE FAMOUS FIVE © 2017, Hodder & Stoughton Limited. All rights reserved.
For group bookings and enquiries, please contact: gwrgrouptravel@gwr.com or call 0345 7000 125
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